North Carolina Stage Company and Flat Rock Playhouse present Live from WVL Radio Theatre: It’s a Wonderful Life at the Historic Henderson County Courthouse. PAGE 9

Asheville Ballet’s spectacular production of The Nutcracker. PAGE 4

POETRY CONTEST

There’s still time! Enter Rapid River’s 14th Annual Poetry Contest. PAGE 24

Asheville Choral Society Celebrates “Heart and Hearth,” directed by guest conductor Shane Long. PAGE 18

The newly expanded Chocolate Fetish offers award winning, handmade premium American and European style chocolates for the holidays. PAGE 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS holiday family fun

Asheville Community Theatre Presents A Christmas Story sheville Community Theatre BY DENNIS RAY continues with its most ambitious and exciting season in recent years with A Christmas Story by Philip much Vickers resembles Will Casse who Grecian based on the 1983 movie plays Ralphie at age nine. ofA the same title. Vickers’ previous roles include Jumpin’ Like many households in the mid Jewel in the Vaudeville kids show Ze Yum, 1980’s and on, my family traditionally and she provided the voice-over for Prin- watched two movies as a family during the cipessa Lila in Runaway Kitty, an animated Christmas season: short she made It’s A Wonderful with her sister and Life (1946) star- mother which has ring James Stewart, been shown at Donna Reed and the Montezuma Lionel Barrymore, International Film about an angel who Festival in Costa helps a compassion- Rica. ate but despairingly Vickers says frustrated business- she prefers play- man by showing to ing noticeable him what life would characters and has have been like if he never experienced never existed, and Will Casse, age 12, Zoë Artemisia Vickers stage fright. “I love A Christmas Story plays the part of plays Randy, Ralphie ’s acting,” she says, starring Melinda Ralphie. younger brother. “more than any- Dillon, Darren thing. You get to McGavin, and play make believe. Peter Billingsley A Red Ryder BB gun really is It is so much fun. I about a young boy the perfect gift. never thought act- who tries to con- ing could be this vince his parents, much fun. But it’s teachers, and even Santa that a Red Ryder the most fun thing ever.” BB gun really is the perfect gift. Will Casse (12) says he doesn’t want The two films have a lot in common to play his role exactly as Peter Billings- although made almost 40 years apart. Both ley did in the movie. He says he loves the movies essentially take place during the movie but wants to bring his own personal- same time frame (late 1930’s to mid 1940’s) ity to the part. “I want to play Ralphie as and each captures the holiday spirit, but in I see him, not mimic the way he was in different and unique ways. Both films did the movie.” He glances down, shakes his better on TV than they had during their head, smiles, obviously feeling uncomfort- initial theatrical runs. Both films have been able talking about himself, and changes the Fine Art adapted into successful plays, and both hap- subject to movies. pen to be playing locally. “Did you see Alfred Hitchcock’s High Quality “A good production begins with a Shadow Of Doubt? That would probably Furnishings great cast. It could be the most brilliant be my favorite movie.” It is also reported as Pottery script ever written, have the most incred- Hitchcock’s favorite of his own films. ible stage design, have fantastic lighting He talks about wanting to eventually and then fall completely apart due to poor direct films, about maybe casting himself in casting. We were very fortunate with our small cameo parts like directors M. Night casting of A Christmas Story,” director Su- Shyamalan and Alfred Hitchcock did, about san Dillard says, who is now directing her writing and telling stories through film. His seventh production for ACT since 2002. favorite director is Shyamalan and his fa- “The talent I have to work with is incred- vorite movie by him is Unbreakable (2000) ible,” she adds. “The adults are spot on. staring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson. The children all are fantastic. I couldn’t be Casse has done school productions of more pleased.” Alice in Wonderland and Horton Hears a Zoë Artemisia Vickers (7) who plays Who. During the summers he has partici- the part of Randy, Ralphie ’s younger broth- pated in several Theatre Aspen workshops er, says she likes being cast as a boy because and productions, playing the Prince in “That’s what acting is all about, playing Cinderella and Grandpa Joe in Charlie and Exclusive Parking in the Rear people. It’s fun being a boy for pretend.” the Chocolate Factory. He has also partici- 29 Biltmore Ave. Dillard cast her because she “captures pated in Theatre Aspen’s musical showcase Located between Mast General Store and Doc Chey’s. the spot-on character of Randy” a jubilant “Aspen’s Got Young Talent” for the past two ostentatious young boy, and because of how (828) 281-4044 :: www.vandykejewelry.com ‘Christmas Story’ continued on page 6

2 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2010 

prints color Discover the Best of Regional Craft RAPID RIVER ARTS holiday family fun

Asheville Ballet’s Annual Production of The Nutcracker he Asheville Ballet’s Nut- A spectacular professional cracker has been a holiday production of the full original

Jewelry: Barbara Joiner Barbara Jewelry: tradition in Asheville for decades. Children and adults ballet from Empirical Russia. Twill be charmed yet again by ballet’s greatest classic. This all- time favorite story of Clara’s magical midnight trip to the Land of Sweets Allanstand Craft Shop is classical ballet at its best. Snow will at the Folk Art Center fall in the Snow Queen’s kingdom, Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, NC scary rats and good soldiers will res- Open Daily 9am-6pm | 828-298-7928 cue Clara, the exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy and her handsome Cavalier will dance their eternally lovely pas de Guild Crafts deux, and beautiful flowers will waltz, 930 Tunnel Road/Hwy 70, Asheville, NC and waltz, and waltz. Open Mon.-Sat: 10am-6pm | 828-298-7903 There is a direct historical line behind our production, from the original choreographer and teacher, Petipa and Vaganova, with the 19th century Russian Kirov Ballet; to their pupil, dancer/choreographer George Balanchine, with his 20th century The Southern Highland Craft Guild is authorized to provide services on the Blue Ridge Parkway New York City Ballet; to his pupil, dancer/ The Asheville Ballet is proud to an- under the authority of a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. choreographer Ann Dunn, with our very nounce two innovations this year that will own 21st century The Asheville Ballet. benefit our community. After a year of Asheville is fortunate to have a ballet dreaming and working, we have implement- company of this caliber. The community ed an international dance-exchange program. has, essentially, a year-long resident reper- Advanced teens from overseas are living for toire company of professional adult dancers. a whole year with Asheville Ballet “sister” Seasoned ballet fans and novices alike have families, and training with the company. the opportunity to watch consummate art- Chinatsu Nobuto, from Japan, will perform ists perform a wide variety of roles, from the challenging and brilliant Dew Drop Fairy classical to contemporary. from Waltz of the Flowers. Athaya Sriskul, from Thailand, will perform the snappy and pert Spanish Lead with her partner Garth Grimball. Students from studios all over Western North Carolina perform every year in The Asheville Ballet’s Nutcracker. This year we are espe- cially pleased to announce a formal collaboration with the Asheville Dance Revolution studio, where Jodi Taylor is the Director. Asheville Dance Revolution is located in Historic Biltmore Village and their students excel in tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop. Not only will Jodi’s ad- This year we are pleased to welcome vanced tap dancers be featured as Toy Allyssa Belcher to our line-up of stars. Alyssa Soldiers, fighting off the scary rats under hails from Texas Ballet Theatre, where she the Christmas tree, Jodi herself will join our danced a variety of roles in The Nutcracker own Lea Fox in a non-stop, fast-footwork under the artistic direction of Ben Steven- tap duet as the Lead Soldiers. No wonder son. Asheville will be privileged to enjoy they defeat the evil Rat Queen. This sort of her as the delicate, breathtaking Sugar Plum collaboration is just the beginning of a com- Fairy, partnered by her Cavalier, Lyle Laney. munity-wide effort to unite local dancers. The Sugar Plum Fairy Pas de Deux is the The Asheville Ballet has built a reputa- final triumph in a ballet full of triumphant tion on the belief that dance plays a vital role moments: Waltz of the Flowers, Chinese, in the education and culture of the com- Russian, Arabian, Spanish, Marzipan, and munity. As a key component of its Educa- of course the ever popular Mother Ginger, tional Outreach Program, The Asheville whose gigantic skirt opens to allow eight Ballet will perform its entire production of little bonbons to pop out and dance. ‘Nutcracker’ continued on page 6

4 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

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Joy Fr  t Wrl It’s music for the “inteRnatiOnaLLY HeavenLY” people, by the people. HaRMOnieS tO LiFt HOLidaY SpiRitS

lready fatigued ties I’ve taken as a musician, stretching by reindeer and BY BRIAN CLAFLIN my ears, voice, and heart – a sentiment snowmen being echoed by fellow chorus members. celebrated over tinny the tradition-bearing guest Michele Skeele is from a musi- retail PA systems? performer, in a role previ- cal family and has been singing all her A ously held by Sheila Kay life, but upon hearing some Eastern Does the phrase “Joy To The World” move you to consider Adams, and originated by European harmonies from Morrison & those living in other parts of Jean Ritchie. When I moved Park, was “taken with the tonality and the world? to Asheville I was eager to harmonies, so different from what we’re used You can find a reprieve sing again with Suzannah, to here in the West, and knew I wanted more. The West Asheville from the common holiday and jumped at the chance to Some evenings, the sound this choir makes iF join WACC this fall. sends shivers along my spine and makes my Community Chorus songs, and in the process YOU performs two concerts: As an experienced sing- heart swell with sheer joy. It’s magic!” get yourself some joy from gO Saturday, December 11 at all over the world. Harmo- Suzannah Park and er, lifelong harmonist and Diane Rhoades (also of the a cappella 7 p.m. Haywood United Nathan Morrison nies from South Africa, the avid listener to ‘80s World group, The Atomic Sisterhood) sums it up Methodist Church, Asheville; Sunday, Balkans, Caucasus Georgia, Music “discoveries” like nicely, saying that when she first heard the December 12, at 4 p.m. First Congregational and Ukraine as well as from the U.S. will be Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Les Mystere chorus last year, she “was deeply impressed Church in Hendersonville. de Voix Bulgares, I, like some of my fellow by their bold, tight sound. Nathan and resounding through Asheville and Hender- Suggested Donation: $5-$10. Kids chorus members, never had the chance to Suzannah are seasoned, passionate, and fun sonville on December 11 and 12. admitted free. More information at www. These family-friendly concerts are pre- learn any such music firsthand until now. It in getting us to sound internationally heav- suzannahpark.com/wacc.html or e-mail sented by the West Asheville Community has proven to be one of the best opportuni- enly.” Amen. And, Joy to the World. [email protected] Chorus (WACC) and are led by acclaimed musicians, West Asheville residents Suzan- nah Park and Nathan Morrison. These two teach, perform, and lead choral groups in a variety of settings throughout North Ameri- ca and Europe, often as instructors at Village Harmony (a unique Vermont-based touring singing camp). From touring and teaching with Village Harmony and other contexts they have amassed a wide and varied mix of traditional world music. As Suzannah says, “Our hope is to give audiences and singers the chance to travel from village to village, hearing new rhythms and harmonies. It’s music for the people, by the people.” The secular portion of the program’s material includes bold Ukrainian pieces singing of romance and death. A Bulgarian children’s song is sung with a bright, edgy smile and playful changes in tempo. The bittersweet, yet warm Appalachian bal- lad “Adieu False Heart” and a set of South African songs and dances will compel the audience to join in. The sacred is also represented in this set, through American shape note songs, the rafter-raising gospel quartet number “Glory Hallelujah,” a lovely Tallis hymn, and a se- lection of three remarkable Georgian songs from the Orthodox liturgy. The chorus boasts 30 members from a variety of backgrounds – including classical- ly-trained sight-readers and those who learn exclusively by ear, visitors from overseas alongside native Appalachians, and singers both young and old. I met Suzannah Park in the Appala- chian-themed 2009 Christmas Revels in Boston, for which she was celebrated as

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 5

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Montford Park Players Opens Indoor Season with ‘Christmas Story’ continued from page 2 ACT will present the American Christ- mas classic December 2-12, 2010. A Christ- years. In 2010 he had the feature role of mas Story, adapted by Philip Grecian from A Christmas Carol Benny in Passenger Pigeons, an indepen- the story by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown dent, prize-winning film that debuted at and Bob Clark. Directed by Susan Dillard. he Montford Park Players, fresh the SXSW Film Festival and was selected BY JOHN RUSSELL from a rousing and critically ac- for New York’s BAMcinemaFEST, and claimed Twelfth Night, which other film festivals around the world. iF A Christmas Story, ACT closed its 38th season at the Hazel continue its Montford on Broadway series “Acting is hard work,” he says, Mainstage, December 2-12. Robinson Amphitheatre, is gearing with Tom Stoppard’s devastatingly funny “but it’s great fun. The hardest part is YOU Thursday and Fridays, 7:30 Tup for its brand-new Montford on Broad- hit, The Real Inspector Hound on April learning where to stand and getting to gO p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, way series at Asheville’s historic Masonic 10-20, 2011. . Next up in the series will that exact point at the exact time you’re 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $22 adults; Temple Theatre, located at 80 Broadway be Aristophanes’ classic comedy about the supposed to get there.” $19 seniors and students; children $12. Street in downtown Asheville. battle of the sexes, Lysistrata, opening April “Yes,” Vickers adds. “That is so Online at www.ashevilletheatre.org or by First up: the 34th annual production of 14 - 24, 2011. hard.” calling (828) 254-1320. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which For more information visit will mark the Players’ first appearance in this www.montfordparkplayers.org beautiful and classic structure, first opened ‘Nutcracker’ continued from page 4 in 1915 and now reopened to the public as iF The Asheville Ballet Asheville’s latest performing arts venue. “A Christmas Carol” the holiday classic The Nutcracker for performs The Nutcracker Directed by Martin Cohn, well-known iF YOU opens December 9, and school children on Thursday December gO at Diana Wortham Theatre, this year to Montford summer audiences as YOU will play Thursdays through 9 at 8:30, 10:30 and 12:30. Seating at December 10 and 11 at 7:30 King Lear and Sir Toby Belch, and starring gO Sundays through December Diana Wortham Theatre is limited and and December 11 and 12 at Mike Vaniman in his 9th appearance as the 19. Please visit www. is confirmed on a first come first served 2:30 p.m., with three daytime school irascible Ebenezer Scrooge, this timeless tale montfordparkplayers.org or call the box basis. Thanks to generous patronage, we shows on December 9. of greed and redemption has been newly office at (828) 254-5146 for showtimes and are able to offer children’s tickets at $5 Tickets range from $18 to $50, with group staged for the grand yet intimate performing to purchase tickets. This production always again this year. This popular opportunity rates available. For reservations call the box space of the Masonic Temple. draws a capacity audience, so don’t get left fills up quickly. For reservations call or office at (828) 257-4530. For group rates The Montford Park Players will out in the cold like Tiny Tim! Advance write Ann Dunn, Director at (828) 258- and school shows call Ann Dunn, Director, tickets are now on sale. 1028 or [email protected]. at (828) 258-1028.

'Tis the season! Surround yourself with a blanket of songs for this special time of year, from a cappella works reverberating ASHEVILLE in the rafters to traditional standards for the soul, including: CHORAL Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Bogoroditse Devo * Felix Mendelssohn’s Heilig * Morten Lauridsen’s O Magnum SOCIETY Mysterium * Holiday favorites including Carol of the Bells WITH GUEST CONDUCTOR SHANE LONG PRESENT: and Hallelujah Chorus * and more! HE ART AND HE ARTH: Songs of the Season

Friday December 10, 8:00pm TICKETS Saturday December 11, 4:00pm $20 Adult // $10 Student Group Rates Available! Central United Methodist Church Order online at ashevillechoralsociety.org or call (828) 232-2060 27 Church Street, Asheville

ACS Thanks Saturday Concert Sponsor:

6 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

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dance is the new visual art is an installation of multiple video RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE pieces on the subject of dance and movement. Each one is cre- ated specifically for camera and is a visual art piece (not docu- Established in 1997 • Volume Fourteen, Number Four mentation of a dance performance.) The videos are played si- multaneously and continuously. Some are projected onto screens and others are displayed on monitors. The videos are all created by Claire elizabeth Barratt, director of Cilla Vee Life Arts, in col- DECEMBER 2010 2 Stage Preview laboration with numerous artists from a variety of disciplines. www.rapidrivermagazine.com ACT – A Christmas Story ...... 2 Sound for each video can be heard on individual headphones A Christmas Carol ...... 6 connected to its play source. This provides an intentional and Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray NC Stage – It’s A Wonderful Life . . 9 intimate listening experience for each piece. The entire exhibit Managing Editor: Beth Gossett ACT – Santaland Diaries ...... 9 is interconnected by a sound installation by composer Dr. Rick Marketing: Dennis Ray ACT – Once Upon a Time ...... 9 Nance. This movement video installation will be on display at Bernstein Family Christmas . . . . . 9 the Flood gallery – Phil Mechanic Studios, in Asheville’s River Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray Arts District, January 8-31, 2011. An opening reception will be Layout & Design: Simone Bouyer held Saturday, January 8 at 7 p.m. Book Editor: Cauley Bennett 4 Performance Poetry Editor: Ted Olson The Nutcracker...... 4 Live nativity, Saturday, december 4 in Saunooke Village, Chero- kee, NC. Begins at 6 p.m. and features live camels and other Proofreader: Mary Wilson Joy From the World ...... 5 animals. The nativity will come alive on the cobbled streets Accounting: Sharon Cole A Swannanoa Solstice ...... 8 of Saunooke village, and will feature songs of the season sung Distribution: Dennis Ray Holiday Pops Concert ...... 8 acapella. More than 35 community members are involved in Heart and Hearth ...... 18 bringing alive the oldest story ever told. Video and sound installation by Claire Elizabeth Barratt CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: BCA’s Magical Nutcracker...... 8 at the Flood Gallery. Photos: Matt Jamie Judy Ausley, Kenneth Black, give the gift of aRt! For the art lover on your list, a membership to the Asheville Art Museum is the perfect gift. With a mem- Patti Cameron, James Cassara, 10 Columns bership, you gift a whole year of unlimited admission to the Museum, invitations to all Franzi Charen, Brian Claflin, James Cassara - Music ...... 10 Museum programs, discounts on ticketed special events and in the Museum Shop, and Michael Cole, Amy Downs, Peter Loewer - Thoreau’s Garden . 12 more! Visit www.ashevilleart.org to purchase the gift of membership. Great Art. Great Ann Dunn, John Ellis, Judy Ausley - Southern Comfort. . 1 Experiences. Great Gift. Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack Square, in Asheville. Rae Geoffrey, Beth Gossett, Ted Olson - Poetry ...... 24 Chall Gray, Max Hammonds, MD, Cauley Bennett - Books ...... 25-26 Holiday enthusiasts are invited to celebrate dinner with dickens in the historic Masonic Temple at 80 Broadway in Asheville. A sumptuous Phil Hawkins, Janna Hoekema, Bill Walz - Artful Living ...... 27 Phil Juliano, Justin Kaiser, five course feast will be served by costumed members of the Mont- Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 28 ford Park Players who will perform vignettes from Dickens’ classic, A Sam Katz, Chip Kaufmann, Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 2 Christmas Carol, between courses. Michelle Keenan, Jim Kitchens, Michael Parker - Wine ......  Ron Lambe, Amanda Leslie, The event takes place on Saturday, december 4 at 6:30 p.m. and will Greg Vineyard - Fine Art ...... 7 be preceded at 5 p.m. by a rare opportunity to observe the installa- Peter Loewer, Christopher Lynn, tion of the 2011 officers of the Masonic Lodge. Admission for dinner Kay S. Miller, April Nance, is $25 with tax deductible proceeds going to the Masonic Home for Karen Newgard, Ted Olson, 11 Music Children and the Amaranth Diabetes Foundation, Inc. Tickets may be purchased online David Ostergaard, Michael Parker, Interview with Tom Godleski . . . . 11 at www.tinyurl.com/dinnerwithdickens or at the temple. Admission for the installation of Joseph Rathbone, Dennis Ray, Adam Taylor at the LAB...... 4 the officers is free and open to the public. John Russell, John Russell, Clara Sofia, Megan Stone, Greg Vineyard, Bill Walz, 14 Movie Reviews Lisa Zahiya, Joe Zinich. 20 Fine Art Advertise with Rapid River Magazine INFO Simple Elegance ...... 20 Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine is a Potter Karen Newgard ...... 22 monthly publication. Address correspondence to (828) 646-0071 [email protected] or write to: Goldsmith Jim Charneski...... 6 Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine 85 N. Main St. Canton, NC 28716 21 Asheville Shops Phone: (828) 646-0071 Best Bet for Holiday Shopping . . . 21 www.rapidrivermagazine.com Holiday Studio Sale...... 22 All materials contained herein are owned and The Chocolate Fetish ...... 2 copyrighted by Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine and the individual contributors unless ™ otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this 30 What to Do Guide magazine do not necessarily correspond with the Best in Show by Phil Juliano . . . . . 1 opinions of Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . . 1 or the advertisers found herein. Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . . . 1 © Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine, Dragin by Michael Cole ...... 1 December 2010 Vol. 14 No. 4 35 Noteworthy Cover illustration by Dennis Ray The Great Art of Laurel Tewes . . . 5 A Mini Golf Course ...... 5

distributed at more than 90 locations throughout eight counties in WnC and South Carolina. First copy is free – each additional copy $1.50

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 7 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE holiday family fun

A Swannanoa Solstice Annual Holiday Concert

rammy award-winning musi- BY JOHN ELLIS cians Al Petteway and Amy White and multi-instrumen- talist Robin Bullock lead the • The Twisty Cuffs, local eighth anniversary edition of Cape Breton-style step- GA Swannanoa Solstice, 2 p.m. and 7 dancers; p.m. Sunday, December 19 at Diana • Young virtuosic fiddler Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in and harpist, Alex Reidinger; downtown Asheville. and In this annual winter holiday cel- ebration, world-renowned musicians • Host Doug Orr, presi- Petteway and White along with Bullock dent emeritus of Warren Wilson College, founder of and a host of special guests share holi- Amy White and Al Petteway. Photo: Peter Smith day songs old and new, religious and The Swannanoa Gathering, secular, joyful and poignant, in a warm and invaluable supporter of Celtic harp and percussion, draws and intimate winter concert. Petteway and participant in the musical heritage on her classical background to create and White have received much recent of western North Carolina. harmonic arrangements. Bullock, a attention for their key musical contri- A Swannanoa Solstice showcases multi-instrumentalist who plays the butions to Ken Burns’ PBS miniseries, all manner of seasonal sounds and guitar, fiddle and bouzouki is hailed as “The National Parks: America’s Best festivities, with well-mastered Celtic a master flat picker whose style skill- Idea.” and Appalachian songs and music on fully embraces Celtic music. Presented in association with The guitar, mandolin, fiddle, piano, Celtic Swannanoa Gathering at Warren Wil- harp, Irish bouzouki, vocals and world son College, A Swannanoa Solstice as- percussion. Through music and story- iF A Swannanoa Solstice, gain offers two performances in order telling, Bullock, Petteway and White YOU December 19 at Diana to meet the audience demand for this explore shared winter traditions from gO Wortham Theatre. popular winter gathering and concert. the area, the country, and from around Tickets: Regular $35; Senior $33; Student $30; this year’s special guests include: the world. The melodies played by Pette- Children $12. Student Rush day- • Sheila Kay Adams, world-renowned way, a virtuosic acoustic guitarist who of-the-show $10 (with valid I.D.) Appalachian storyteller and traditional favors an altered tuning, draw from For more information or to purchase Appalachian ballad singer; a broad variety of cultural influences tickets call the theatre’s box office • Steve Agan and E.J. Jones, award- from Middle East tonalities to Scottish at (828) 257-4530 or visit www. winning highland bagpipers; jigs. White, on piano, mandolin, guitar, dwtheatre.com.

Asheville Symphony’s Annual Holiday Pops Concert

n Sunday, December 12, and excerpts from the Asheville Symphony Tchaikovsky’s continues the beautiful fam- Nutcracker Suite. ily tradition of performing asheville your favorite music from Symphony Othe holidays. With the glowing voices Children’s Chorus of the Asheville Symphony Chorus The Children’s Chorus was under Dewitt Tipton and the Asheville formed as a collaborative effort between Symphony Children’s Chorus under One of Asheville’s the Asheville symphony and Dr. Susan Timothy Wilds, this holiday concert Favorite Holiday Hensley, Arts Education Supervisor has become a favorite of Asheville for Buncombe County Schools. Dr. Concerts! audiences over the years. We hope Hensley has had extensive voice train- you will make it one of your treasured ing and works with choirs in several traditions, too. local churches. The show will offer a wide variety The Chorus, now directed by iF Holiday Pops Sunday of holiday and Christmas favorites Timothy Wilds, is open to 4th through Matinee, December such as Sleigh Ride by Leroy Ander- YOU 8th grade boys (unchanged voices) and 12 beginning at 3 p.m. son, Silent Night, and We Wish You a gO girls. The current membership stands in the Thomas Wolfe Merry Christmas. The audience will Auditorium. at 65 singers from Asheville City and also get to participate in a Christmas Buncombe County public schools, pri- For tickets and more information visit carol sing-a-long. Other selections in- vate and home schools in the area. www.ashevillesymphony.org or phone clude, Joy to the World, Deck the Halls (828) 254-7046.

8 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE holiday family fun

Asheville’s Hippest Holiday Tradition is Back sheville Community Theatre will Engulfed in Flames” (2008). ACT was hap- BY JANNA HOEKEMA remount The Santaland Diaries, a py to host Malaprops’ book signing event by smash hit by David Sedaris for the David’s sister, Amy Sedaris, in November. ninth year. An edgy comedy, The In the past, ACT’s rendition has been 2005 Asheville 48 Hour Film Proj- Santaland Diaries follows a Macy’s voted “Best Locally Produced Play” and ect), and the stage productions of departmentA store elf throughout the Christ- “Best Live Show: Theatre” by readers Heather and Judy Blume’s Forever: mas season. of the Mountain Xpress. In 2010, Tom An Unauthorized Parody. Recently, Full of dry insights, Sedaris comments Chalmers, who returns for his sixth run as Chalmers has appeared in 35below on the best and the worst of people and Crumpet the Elf, won first place as “Best leading the popular Listen To This culture during the holiday season. This Local Comedian” in the Best of WNC poll. storytelling events while Batenhorst “naughty” show will be performed Thurs- Described as “one terrific talent” by Jim was the director of ACT’s hilarious day, Friday, and Saturday, December 16-19 Cavener of the Asheville Citizen-Times, rendition of Noises Off this past summer. on the Mainstage at Asheville Community Chalmers is the former Artistic Director of Tom Chalmers as Crumpet the Elf. Theatre in downtown Asheville. NYC’s Gotham City Improv/Groundlings Purchasing tickets in advance is David Sedaris rose to fame through East and has studied with the Groundlings, strongly recommended for this pro- duction. Tickets are available at the Asheville NPR by reading his essay “The Santaland Second City, and comedy icon Del Close. The Santaland Diaries, Community Theatre Box Office located at iF Diaries” on Morning Edition in 1992. NPR Although the play is popular across the written by David Sedaris, got one of the largest and most enthusiastic country, Chalmers brings a special inter- 35 E. Walnut Street in downtown Asheville. YOU adapted for the stage by Joe responses from the listening audience and pretation that will make you laugh out loud To purchase tickets visit www.ashevillethe- gO Mantello, directed by Josh Sedaris’ career in comedy took off. Sedaris and want to come back for more. Chalmers atre.org or call (828) 254-1320. Any remain- Batenhorst, and starring Tom has now published several national bestsell- and Santaland director Josh Batenhorst have ing tickets will be available at the door. All Chalmers. Asheville Community ing volumes of hilarious essays, notably collaborated on several projects: “Harm for tickets are $15. Theatre, 35 E. Walnut Street, in Asheville. “Naked” (1997), “Me Talk Pretty One Day” the Holidays, Hometown Security” (a short December 16-19, Thursday – Saturday, 7:30 (2000) and his most recent “When You Are film which was awarded Best Film in the this show contains graphic language and is p.m.; Sunday at 2:30 p.m. not recommended for children. the Santaland Tickets: $15 general admission. Call the diaries is presented by special arrangement Box Office at (828) 254-1320 or visit www. Life is “Wonderful” in Downtown with dramatists play Service, inc. ashevilletheatre.org. Hendersonville this Holiday Season owntown Hendersonville has long BY AMANDA LESLIE been known for its charming, old- fashioned downtown, including the landmark Historic Henderson cookie contest, the Hendersonville Christ- County Courthouse. Now it’s the mas Parade, and more. perfectD backdrop for Live from WVL Radio The courthouse, built in 1905, served as Theatre: It’s a Wonderful Life, appearing at the location for real courthouse drama until the Courthouse through December 23. 1995, when the new county courthouse was built. However, the building is still very much a central landmark in Hendersonville. Flat Rock Playhouse mounted two produc- tions, 12 Angry Men and A Few Good Men, in the old courthouse earlier this year and the plays have been a resounding success. With sold-out performances, these plays made a big bump in the economy. NC Stage and its frequent collabora- tor, Immediate Theatre Project, have been producing a stage version of It’s a Wonderful Life in downtown Asheville since 2006. The script is an adaptation by ITP member and frequent NC Stage actor Willie Repoley, who is also performing in this production What better way to get in the holiday along with other local actors. spirit than with a special holiday collabora- tion between North Carolina Stage Com- pany and Flat Rock Playhouse? Make It’s a iF “Live from WVL Radio Wonderful Life part of your holiday festivi- Theatre: It’s a Wonderful ties with family and friends. YOU Life” by NC Stage and It’s a perfect family excursion for the gO Flat Rock Playhouse at day, since Hendersonville is only 25 minutes Historic Henderson County away from downtown Asheville! All kinds of Courthouse continues through festive activities will be going on in down- December 23, 2010. town Hendersonville during the month Tickets are available through Flat Rock of December, including visits from Santa, Playhouse at www.flatrockplayhouse.org or live music, free trolley rides, a gingerbread by phone at (828) 693-0731.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 9 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE spinning discs

As fall ensues, the number of new releases seems to slow down a bit, but CD Reviews there’s still enough interesting stuff out there to keep this music lover happy. Keep supporting your local independent music store and thanks for checking in by James Cassara each month at Rapid River Magazine.

The Walkmen only question is why it took this long to His love of Tin Pan Alley song craft Lisbon give the event a proper album release. is evident in the meandering shuffle of “A It’s a double disc set of elegance and Slow Drag with Josephine” or the gorgeous Fat Possum Records authority, as Bonamassa tears through such ballad “You Hung the Moon”. But citing As masters of the gems as Charley Patton’s “High Water his influences has always been part of what melancholy, The Walk- Everywhere” and a sprawling rework of Rod makes him so interesting. There is also a bit men have long had a knack for being among Stewart’s early blues ballad “Blues Deluxe”. more kick than previous efforts. rock music’s most lovable losers, finding joy Not since the earliest days of The Jeff Beck The title track indicts the Wall Street in rejection and a bit of zoom among the Band has a player so forcefully made his money whores with the same unbridled gloom. As lead singer Hamilton Leithauser mark on a revitalized Blues movement. rage of his earliest records (with Marc chirps in the charming “Woe is Me”, “don’t Accompanied by a full horn section, twin Ribot’s guitar searing out the notes) while get heavy, let’s be light” which pretty much drummers, and the thumping bass of Car- even the gentler movements seem more de- sums up the band’s philosophy and is a big mine Rojas, Bonamassa and band don’t just liberately thought out. Overall this sounds reason why Lisbon marks another move knock on the door of greatness, they quite far less confining than any of his more forward in their sonic evolution. literally blow it down. recent albums, as if Costello has finally fig- Their last album, the curiously moody Even the slower moments – and ured out how to best weave trace elements You & Me seemed overly focused on ambi- Bonamassa is instinctive enough to know of all his myriad styles into one whole cloth. ence: Lisbon is considerably more direct (and when a bit of restraint is called for – such as For the past decade or so the only upbeat) in both intent and sound. Call it a the delicate “Django” demonstrate an artist reason to give Costello multiple listens was dance record for the disenfranchised. Tunes at their peak. Bonamassa is no longer the in an inevitably vain attempt to decipher such as “Angela Surf City” and “Stranded” prodigy of a decade ago; he has gracefully the dense complexity of his records, to try give us a glimpse of the band’s wounded matured into a true musician, one who just and understand where the heck he was but always resilient spirit, down but never happens to be among the most soulful and coming from. National Ransom offers no counted out, but it’s their unflappable confi- talented performers on earth. Live from the such conundrums. You’ll likely want, not dence that makes them so irresistible. Royal Albert Hall is ample proof that at this need, to savor its pleasures again and again, Even better is the multi-layered moment and time the sky’s the limit for evidence that Costello is again at the top of “While I Shovel the Snow” (which could him and his band. **** his game. ****1/2 easily be mistaken as an East Side Story era Squeeze outtake) in which Leithauser Elvis Costello Various Artists pines for “the slow life” amidst the bustle of everyday. It’s the perfect compliment to National Ransom Come and Get It: a winter’s day – a time of year which has Hear Music The Best of Apple long inspired The Walkmen – and a shin- Will the real Elvis Records ing example of the rich song craft, in the Costello please stand up? Apple best use of the word, which has become For the past two decades What started as a tax shelter for the fab the group’s stock and trade. **** he’s worn such differing musical hats that it’s four quickly became a strange combination been nearly impossible to remain interested of some incredible (and truly awful) music, Joe Bonamassa in any one of his sonic personas, knowing clothing, merchandizing, and eventually a Live From the full well it might likely change with the wind. symbol best associated as guardians of the Royal Albert Hall Thus, it is somewhat reassuring that National Beatles’ legacy. Ransom is something of an extension of last Come and Get It: The Best of Apple Premiere Music year’s Secret, Profane & Sugarcane. Records is a sampler of what promises to be By the tender age While the two records are different in a series of reissues, focusing on the label’s of eight Joe Bona- tone, using the same group of core musi- more profitable and artistically successful acts massa was opening for B.B. King, and at a cians – with one record building upon the while giving a glimpse of the rest. It’s a snap time when most of us are enduring middle other – gives Costello a consistency he’s shot of an era, of the absurdity and tempo- school he was a veteran of the road. Not been sorely lacking. It also helps that he’s ral nature of the times. It is also a sobering since Stevie Ray Vaughn, to whom Bona- assembled his strongest set of tunes in a example of what happens when creative sorts massa clearly and favorably compares, has a very long time. Oh sure there are too many suddenly have all the money in the world but white Blues player so galvanized the genre. of them and they often spew forth too many not yet the sense to match it. Like his departed musical brethren, words – Costello as always been weak at Every one of the songs bears a particu- Bonamassa drenches his playing with self editing – but for an artist whose last few lar Beatles mark. Mary Hopkins’ huge hit buckets of empathy and soul. There’s no efforts have been lessons in chaos, National “Those Were the Days” was produced by mistaking his incredible guitar chops but Ransom sounds surprisingly cohesive. Sir Paul while Jackie Lomax’s rocking “Sour rest assured, both his heart and his hands Much of this is due to the ubiquitous Milk Sea” was written and produced by are equal partners. He’s also a more than presence of T-Bone Burnett, but give credit George. It is also features Paul and Ringo adequate vocalist who, like many a blues to the Sugarcanes, whose sound has morphed – not to mention pianist Nicky Hopkins singer, will likely get better with age. with the Imposters into an imposing mix of and the torrid guitar playing of Eric Clapton His acclaimed 2009 headlining of Americana; part roots, part rock, country, and – which makes it worth hearing again and The Royal Albert Hall, guest starring nothing like the English sound that launched again. Yet Apple was never intended as a Eric Clapton and previously released as a Costello’s career. For his part Costello inten- Beatles showcase, nor was it necessarily DVD, help propel Bonamassa to the fore- tionally stays in common territory, but while intended to actually make money. front of contemporary Blues men. The the sound is familiar the songs are not. ‘CD’s’ continued on next page

10 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what’s happening

‘CD’s’ continued from page 10 BY JAMES CASSARA The McCartney composition “Thingu- Opening a Jar of Fresh Preserves mybob,” was a television theme performed by the traditional Liverpool brass ensemble est known as the focal point for the of Fresh Pre- JC: This is certainly Black Dyke Band while the silly novelty of popular regional band Buncombe serves is a much the most collab- Brute Force’s “King of Fuh” shows how ram- Turnpike, the multi-talented Tom bigger and better orative project you shackle the label would later become. It was Godleski has never been one to project than my have undertaken. In in fact never released; as apparently someone sit still. In addition to his musical first attempt at terms of direction, decided that a chorus of “all hail the mighty efforts,B Godleski remains interested in a playwriting. FP sets, lighting, and Fuh King” was maybe not such a wise idea. number of indigenous art forms; be it wood the play won the such, how difficult There are also early songs by James carving, mountain music, procuring native annual South- is it to turn them Taylor, The Iveys (who later became wool, or spinning a good yarn (pun in- ern Appalachian over to others? Was Badfinger) and others. Some became hits tended!) he is committed to preserving the Repertory it challenging to (Billy Preston’s “That’s the Way God traditions of the mountains he grew up in. Theatre’s Script- “fit” your original Planned It”) while others (the out of place With Fresh Preserves Godleski fest playwright’s ideas into the practi- Cajun sound of the Sundown Playboys’ expands his repertoire into that of live competition for Tom Godleski on bass and lead vocals, Darrell cal aspects of theatre? Earwood on Banjo, Micah Hanks on guitar, and “Saturday Nite Special”) are best forgotten. theatre, melding his love of history with 2009. All the Caleb Hanks on mandolin. Photo: Antonia Eden tg: It is not too But for all its warts there’s no denying the that of his own genealogy. Based on his songs from the challenging for me. morbid fascination to be found herein, and original script, winner of the Southern Fresh Preserves CD are in the show, as In fact, it is quite the opposite. It is very that alone makes it worth having. *** Appalachian Repertory Theatre’s 2009 well as a couple more tunes from other exciting to see the show take shape. Being Script Fest award, Fresh Preserves will Buncombe Turnpike releases. the writer, I have some influence on how Come and Get It: A be brought to life by Godleski and other JC: How important was your own family things go, so I didn’t have to completely Tribute to Badfinger talented and notable actors/musicians. history in writing this piece? turn things over. The content and meaning Midwest Records James Cassara: Fresh Preserves is also the tg: My family history was the most impor- of the show is what is important. As long as As a compliment name of an album you made, so I imagine tant thing about writing this play. It started that is there, I don’t sweat the little stuff. to the above, this Come the idea has been percolating for some out as a way to honor my Mother, Grand- JC: I know they’re vastly different, but what and Get It makes a nice time. How did you go about expanding it father, and my Uncle, who all told me were some of the similarities between doing bookend to one’s Apple discs. It was released into a much more elaborate presentation? stories. It almost wrote itself. I can’t really Fresh Preserves at a stage presentation and back in 1996 but it’s still in print and I only tom godleski: It’s the title of the CD I put remember putting that much time into it. for instance just playing the material live? recently became aware of its existence. Of out in 2008, a collection of songs all based JC: Talk a bit about the actors involved. tg: Playing the tunes in the show is going course Badfinger deserves a tribute album on true stories, most of which I was told by They’re also quite accomplished musicians. to be pretty laid back. The band knows the a lot more than many bands, partly because my family since I was a child. The album songs. The challenge for me, at least, is few modern rock fans know of them but tg: I am just thrilled about how the cast preserves the stories. FP is a project that that I have to do some acting, and actually mostly because they were so damn brilliant. turned out. My friends and fellow players, I had wanted to do for years, and I finally have to learn lines. When I am on stage at From 1970 to 1973 – before they col- Don Lewis, Dave Desmelik, and Josh got it done. Once I got the CD produced, I a gig, I can pretty much just ad lib between lapsed amidst personal and managerial issues Gibbs are in the show, as well as Bun- began to think it would be good to write a songs. This is a whole new adventure for – they charted a number of beautiful power combe Turnpike band mates Tim Adams, play that tells how I got all the song ideas. me, and I cannot wait to get started! pop singles. From the stunning chorus of Evan Swink, Griff Martin, and John Dun- JC: I assume you brought in unused ideas “Day After Day” (covered by 20/20), to the can. My brother Michael is also in the cast, from other projects? I know you wrote a shimmering balladry of “Baby Blue” (Aimee as well as Joe Guice, Marlene Earp, and Civil War play a few years back, correct? Blake Fowler. They all did a fantastic job, The Southern Mann), most everything here works to some iF Appalachian Repertory tg: I did write a one act play called, “A and I cannot say enough great things about extent. “No Matter What” (the Knack), and YOU Theatre (SART) presents the Paul McCartney-penned “Come and Buncombe Turnpike Sunset.” It was a fic- them. We never really auditioned anyone, gO Fresh Preserves by Tom Get It” (Adrian Belew) might seem a bit too tional story, with some accurate Buncombe we were just fortunate to find the right Godleski, with music 1980’s new wave but part of what makes this County history in it. The band and I per- people for the right parts. performed by Buncombe interesting is the sheer lack of reverence. formed that show at The Folk Art Center a I should mention two other very im- Turnpike Bluegrass Band. December 1 Not many of these songs are well few years back. The only thing repeated for portant people. Bill Gregg, the artistic di- & 2 at 7:30 p.m., December 4 at 2:30 and known enough to be considered sacred, FP was the song “Little Omie Wise.” It is a rector of SART, is directing this play. He’s 7:30 p.m., and December 5 at 2:30 p.m. which frees up the artists to deliver their true NC story, and the only cover tune on an old pro who really knows how to make at the Owen Theatre on the campus of own singular takes. Badfinger’s story is the FP CD. The storyline and plot for the things work: an incredibly knowledgeable Mars Hill College. Admission is $15 for amongst the most heart breaking in rock FP play was all written as I went along. guy. The amazing Scott Allred painted ten adults and $10 for students. For more history. In their youthful naivety they signed Fresh Preserves is all based on non portraits that are used as a backdrop for the information call SART at (828) 689-1384 horrible contracts that left the band flat fiction. I used real conversations I had with stories. They’re stunning, and an integral or visit www.SARTplays.org. broke. Two of the four subsequently took my family in this show. The final version part of the play. their own lives, and whatever royalties are generated by these releases will sadly go to lawyers and not the surviving members. But own spectacular set, With her band the Reasons, led by her ment of “Mellifera”, wherein Muldaur none of that diminishes the splendor of the had to walk away im- husband Olivier Manchon, she follows uses her considerable vocal skills to full music, which fortunately endures for us all pressed. The daugh- up her luminous 2007 debut with an even advantage, are simply stunning. to appreciate time and again. *** ter of Geoff Muldaur, stronger collection of gorgeous melodies I would have thought after seeing her a master songwriter and layers of musical creativity. Buoyed performance that the challenge of capturing Clare and the Reasons and historian of by the inventive arrangements of Olivier’s such spontaneity and joie de vivre in the American vernacular – as well as an immensely talented and studio would have been asking too much. The Arrow music, she no doubt comes by her talent sympathetic band – the mood is one of Instead, having heard this amazing record Fargo Records honestly. And while she is stylistically far sunshine and shadow, with not a weak after the show, has further convinced me Anyone who had the pleasure of seeing removed from her dad’s music, given the song to be heard. Mixtures of cello and that Clare and the Reasons are nothing less Clare and The Reasons at Moog Fest, either strength of her recordings she is certainly piano gently propel “Our Team Is Grand,” than a phenomenon in an industry sorely backing Van Dyke Parks or playing their doing him proud. while the keyboard/woodwind arrange- needing one. *****

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE thoreau’s garden Perennials and Houseplants in Pots

ou would be amazed at what will hold a plant. There are vases and BY PETER LOEWER jardinières, urns and pots, troughs and tubs, window boxes for win- between having the backyard dow ledges, pots to hang on walls or become an ample garden or Yfrom trees, just plain hanging baskets, not to provided with a terrace and a mention discarded sinks, old wheelbarrows, grand collection of pots with abandoned tires, abandoned super-market plants within, I’d take the carts, old milk cartons, tomato cans, and containers, hands down. even a toilet (or two). Why? Containers pro- Believe it or not, an antique toilet bowl vide so many choices for gar- (especially from the Nineteenth Century), in deners, choices from dressing good condition, makes a very effective pot. up the front entrance to your And while purists bemoan the use of old car home, to taking advantage of and truck tires (especially at the entrances to hanging plants from the limbs trailer courts), I do not. Anything that helps of trees that might be around to relieve the increasing monotony of both your yard, to changing a our urban and suburban scene, is welcome bare deck from a lineup of — at least to me. uninteresting wooden planks Tires, for example, can be stacked (you or ceramic tile or concrete can glue them together if you fear they blocks, to actually hiding an might come apart), but remember to break ugly foundation without dig- up the interior soil they sit upon, thus im- ging up the existing soil. proving drainage. Want to change the look Today, considering the demands of your garden? Bring in made on time and energy, if given a choice some new containers with some new plants and take the old to a secret place on your property — well screened by a fence or hedge — and replant them at your ease. Illustration by Peter Loewer Want to experiment with some plants that usually give in to the The accompanying illustration shows a extremes of your climate? Try growing these number of Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema beauties in pots. You’ll have ample control spp.) plus a devil’s ivy (Scindapus aureus) of your environment, using mobility to your curling down around the edge to the table best advantage as you move plants from the pot sits upon. place to place, taking advantage of weather And containers offer a short-term protection where you find it. solution to growing a number of plants, Recently, I’ve become enamored of like many bulbs, that come into bloom then plants that do well growing in water or very blooms fade and a clump of uninterest- damp soil so if I forget to water, the plants ing foliage is left that must ripen before survive. In fact, you can even grow plants in the bulbs go into storage. When the plants just plain water where a liquid fertilizer is become unsightly, you simply move them added every few months. out of sight. Finally, if you’re not as young as you once were and either your garden or your physical prowess is limited, containers can be placed at many levels and can be moved about with ease, remembering that larger pots can go on wheels or be lugged about on a dolly.

peter Loewer, shown here, examining the blossoms of early-blooming Lenten roses, is a well- known writer and botanical artist who has written and illustrated more than twenty-five books on natural history over the past thirty years.

12 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE southern comfort A JOURNAL OF SHORT STORIES BY JUDY AUSLEY

Artisans Create Community BY JUDY AUSLEY n the last 10 years in Asheville, moving here to practice their art. One In Black Mountain the artists that very little has been done to clean- neat occasion to get involved was to come to mind are Nancy Livingston up and develop the river district. It attend the River Arts District studio and David Bryan, who operate a back- is sure to become “the jewel in the stroll on dates scheduled twice a year yard studio at 110 Beach St., for her basket” in the next few years as in open studios. pottery and his unique paintings. They Idevelopment of the River Arts District One artist I wrote about then in are a fixture in the community, along becomes a reality. the Charlotte Observer was Rodney with Dan and Tekla Howachyn. My question is, why did it take Capers, a professional glass blower The Howachyns’ studio is Black so long for Asheville business and as- who, after relocating here from New Mountain Iron Works in the heart of sorted investors, architects and devel- Orleans in 1995, opened Great South- Black Mountain, a true walking town. opers to decide that, economically, this ern Glassworks on Riverside Drive. Just get in touch or wander by their is a way for the entire area to become a Capers became a steady fixture in the walking distance studios near Main true art mecca in North Carolina and art community in those early days. Street and you will go away happy and the southeast? At that time around 40 artisans were eager to return again. These four artist Seems like every city and town operating studios on the river. have made big strides in their careers that I have worked in since coming Back then, the studio stroll and in recent years, showing some of their to this state in 1971 has had some arts open houses were a highlight of the work in high end art studios in larger emphasis in development, but nothing year to many of us who surround cities. These guys do their art and Over 120 Channels like the potential here in Asheville. ourselves in and among folks creating never have lost control of their senses $ .99 In the early 1800’s the French art. It is still a real draw to avid collec- as they broken into the business of art MONTH (For 1224 Months, Offer requires Agreement) Broad River banks were a major river tors from all over North Carolina and in the early 1960’s. FREE HD FOR LIFE! city port. It was the life-blood of Ashe- other destinations. I have personally heard them all (Offer requires Agreement and AutoPay with Paperless Billing) ville, which became the largest city in Other studios that opened with say the same thing that Livingston, a $500 BONUS!$500 BONUS! the western North Carolina moun- Capers included Odyssey Center for gifted potter for 30 years, said: “You tains. It was then a major trade city the Arts, Highwater Clays, Odyssey cannot start out fresh in art and expect FREE for 3 Months - T in the era of cotton, steel and lumber Gallery, Warehouse Studios and Curve to sell something for $1,000 right off T mills because of the French Broad Studios. And Grey Eagle Tavern, a the bat.” She continued, “There are FREE Installation with DVR - Up to 6 Rooms! River. Those old buildings, or what is noted and quite famous music bar. lots of considerations to get to the top. Lowest Price Nationwide! left of them, are on historic ground. (Note: If I left anyone out, please for- It sometimes takes years to make that FREE HD DVR Upgrade! ($6/mo DVR service fee applies) The river that runs through Asheville give me. I will get you next time). kind of money for a piece of pottery.” No Equipment to Buy! is NC history. I hope for all those involved in “Often with young people in art, I recall my friend and I used to the future of the river and its devel- their dreams of greatness get in the CALL NOW! 1-866-506-6195 ride along the river on Sunday after- opment that it will expand and be the way,” said Dan Howachyn, a seasoned MB33.5 noons, when I came to Asheville in shining “jewel” on the French Broad. blacksmith who has created iron work Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. If service is terminated before the end of agreement, a cancellation fee of $17.50/month remaining applies. 1971 in search of water to dip a toe in That development has been long at Biltmore Estate and at Montreat Programming credits apply during the first 12 months. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current account; requires Agreement, AutoPay with Paperless Billing. HBO/Showtime offer requires AutoPay or just breathe fresh air and bask in the overdue. A bit of advice: Keep local College. The late Ruth Graham asked with Paperless Billing; credits apply during the first 3 months ($72 value); customer must downgrade or then-current price applies. Requires continuous enrollment in AutoPay and Paperless Billing. Free glory of rippling water. But in those politics out of it and consider only Dan to create a 4-foot cross that still Standard Professional Installation only. Monthly fees may apply based on type and number of receivers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local channels days strife had invaded, mills had long artistic decisions and what is good for hangs at the Chapel of the Prodigal. may not be available in all areas. Additional restrictions may apply. First-time DISH Network customers ago closed and worn-down houses and the people of the community. Locally, these early artists are the only. Offer ends 9/28/10. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are registered trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a some gorgeous historic homes close There are other destinations in pioneers of art in this area. I say, during CBS Company. by were in dire need of occupancy and western North Carolina, some of this December gift season that we cele- care. After I left in 1972 to relocate to which are less than an hour from Ashe- brate, support these independent artists Durham and RTP, I did not pay much ville. Many of these are really being and watch your community thrive. attention to what was happening in enriched with the presence of art and Of course, as a writer and lover of western NC, except what news might studios in their midst. Black Mountain, all books printed, I have to say to peo- be stirring thanks to The Associated Mars Hill, Marshall, Weaverville, and ple in Asheville: Those of you who are Press in Raleigh. points close by Saluda, Tryon, and Lake out and about looking for unique gifts, When I returned to retire from Lure all have studios in and around do not forget to support Malaprop’s, an newspapers in 2004 I began to see the town which house artists who reside in independent bookstore on Haywood steady growth on the river of artists those communities. Street in Asheville. There is no other place to shop, in my opinion.

Writer Judy LOCaL iS tHe neW BLaCK ausley has been a reporter with he Asheville Grown help shoppers recognize newspapers in nC for 40 years. She Business Alliance the vast variety, quality retired in 2005 (AGBA) is re-envision- and affordability of the and continues T ing holiday shopping goods and services in to freelance at her home in asheville. with their latest posters “Local our community. She can be contacted by e-mail at is the New Black”. Posters are avail- [email protected]. if you know a These posters, placed in able at Graphics Four, character in asheville who has not had a conventional life, put them in touch windows of locally owned and 9 Broadway Street in with Judy for an article in this column, independent businesses, will Asheville. Phone (828) 252-2252. Southern Comfort.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 1 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.

Fair Game ∑∑∑∑ knocking Jack Ryan. It’s viewer has either already read the book(s) President’s Men. Corruption and cover-up Short Take: The just that Fair Game is and/or has already seen the other two films of that corruption will always be with us controversial, true a story that one would so it takes up right where The Girl Who as will our hope that justice will be done, story of the outing and think more Americans Played with Fire left off. Lisbeth is in the with the innocent vindicated and the guilty betrayal of CIA agent would champion. hospital recovering from being shot in the punished. Valerie Plame by the Apparently Joe head and buried alive after attempting to Rated R for strong violence, sexual material, and Bush administration. Wilson can be a bit of a kill her father for a second time. Millen- some language. controversial character nium editor Mikael Blomkvist (Michael REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN ReeL taKe: Like Inside and Sean Penn was Nyqvist) and his staff are working fever- Job (see review on page a good pick for that. ishly to clear her of murder charges and to 15), Fair Game is a He gives the layers expose those in the Swedish government movie that you don’t see Naomi Watts and Sean Penn star as Valerie Plame and Joe Wilson of a good man mixed who are actually responsible. for the sake of entertain- in Fair Game. with the aspects that After her recovery there is a trial to ment, it’s a film people could make him a bit determine her sanity and it is this trial that should see. Fair Game is more political of a challenge. Naomi Watts was also an provides the opportunity for those respon- than the Inside Job, and some will say it’s appropriate pick to play someone who is sible to be brought to justice. But it’s an up- not true, despite the facts that our govern- alternately wifely and motherly, cool and hill battle as the actual evidence is falsified ment flagrantly ignored vital intelligence unbreakable. David Andrews does a bang or discarded altogether and her murderous in order to justify its case for war and up job as scheming, manipulative and nasty half-brother Niedermann (Micke Spreitz), betrayed one of its own agents. Scooter Libby. from the previous film, is out to kill her. Some years ago I remember being in- Fair Game is not what I consider If you haven’t seen the first two films censed when I read about the outing of CIA mandatory viewing, but it is an extremely then this is definitely not the place to start. Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert agent Valerie Plame in a Vanity Fair article. Grint) comfort each other in Harry Potter and worthwhile film that more people should If you have then you will know what to the Deathly Hallows: Part One. Not only had our very own government see. At press time Fair Game is playing an expect. The other films are very graphic in leaked the identity of one of its own covert exclusive engagement at the Fine Arts The- their depiction of sexual abuse so keep that Harry Potter and the Deathly agents, our president had sounded the atre. If you want to see it, see it soon. in mind if you plan to see this but these salvos of war, stating that our intelligence Hallows: Part One ∑∑∑∑1/2 Rated PG-13 for some language. scenes are not gratuitous and are central had reported evidence of weapons of mass to the story of one of the most remarkable Short Take: First part of the REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN destruction, knowing that we had not. female characters in concluding book in the saga of Harry Interestingly the official who filed the recent literary and Potter is definitely the best film in the intelligence report was none other than The Girl Who Kicked the cinematic history. series so far. Valerie Plame’s husband, Joe Wilson. It’s no Hornet’s Nest ∑∑∑∑ Hornet’s Nest, I couldn’t quite decide wheth- coincidence then that when Wilson wrote ReeL taKe: Short Take: The concluding like most Scandina- er to give HP 7 (as it’s known in the trade) an op ed piece in the NY Times telling the film in the Millennium trilogy vian films, is a case five stars or four and a half. I settled on the world the Bush administration manipulated is not as action packed as the of substance over latter because this is really only the first part the data in his intelligence report, someone first two but it has the tension style. Director Daniel of the final chapter. After Part 2 comes out mysteriously blew the whistle on his wife, a of the best political thrillers. Alfredson allows the I’ll be able to make a final assessment but covert CIA operative. The idea was to blow story and the charac- that won’t happen until July 2011. her cover in an effort to discredit her hus- ReeL taKe: According to the Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth ters to take prece- It’s been several days since I saw the band. It really was the stuff of movies. Rotten Tomatoes website, a Salander in The Girl Who Kicked dence and to unfold film and I’m still trying to process it all. This is the story told in Fair Game. number of critics and audience The Hornet’s Nest. at a very deliberate I need to see it again and will do so once Sean Penn stars as Joe Wilson and Naomi members were rather dissatisfied pace which builds not to a stunning climax the Thanksgiving weekend is over and the Watts as Valerie Plame. Kudos to direc- with The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s but to an inevitable one. One can be sure crowds are less of a hassle to deal with. This tor Doug Liman (Bourne Identity, Mr. & Nest. The biggest complaints are that it that David Fincher’s American remakes is a film that should be seen more than once Mrs. Smith) for handling a tinder box of a lacks the action of the first two features and with Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara will and not just because you may be a fan of the story tightly, succinctly and with a distinct that it is too slowly paced for its 148 min- alter this approach and we will have to wait series. As a cinematic offering it is first class absence of melodrama. For me that made utes. That certainly was not the case as far and see if this works as it did in the Ameri- and will reward multiple viewings. the story more powerful. as I was concerned. Thanks to the riveting can remake of Let the Right One In (Let I can safely say that no film in the I do, however, note with some disap- performance of Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Me In). series held my interest as much as this one pointment that had this film been an Salander and the continual revelations of Think of The Girl Who Kicked the did. While I have enjoyed all of the films, adaptation of a Tom Clancy novel or simply political corruption and cover-up, I stayed Hornet’s Nest as a Swedish equivalent to there was always something in them that done with a Clancyesque flair, it would engaged from start to finish. Hornet’s Nest assumes that the such past political thrillers as Z or All the probably be far more popular. I’m not ‘Movies’ continued on page 15

14 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews

‘Movies’ continued from page 14 Harry Potter and the Deathly ing the movie to the book movie consists of would momentarily break the spell they ∑∑∑∑ teen were trying to weave. Not so with HP 7. Hallows: Part One as I watched it. And I must scenes with only From the moment the Warner Brothers logo Almost everyone has heard of say that, due to the decision RevieW Harry (Daniel Rad- appeared against dark menacing clouds to Harry Potter and either read J.K. to split Deathly Hallows cliffe), Ron (Rupert by Clara Sofia the final scene of Voldemort with the elder Rowling’s books or seen the movies. But into two movies, this film Grint), and Hermione wand, I was completely unaware of anything the seventh installment is quite differ- is much more loyal to the (Emma Watson). It else. I can’t remember the last time a movie ent from the other six — no castle, no book than any of its prede- provides the first real did that to me. protective teachers, and one very angry cessors. While the accuracy delighted me, test for the three actors, and in my opin- This is even more of an accomplishment and dangerous Lord Voldemort. In it may seem tedious to those who have not ion, they all do a fine job and are able to as HP 7 was helmed by David Yates, the same Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: read the book because the pace is consider- keep the audience engaged. director for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Part One, danger lurks around every ably slower. There are some scenes that I recommend this movie to any Prince which is my least favorite of all the corner. Voldemort and drag and could have Harry Potter fan or to anyone else who films. There is not one false note in this pro- his Death Eaters have easily been tightened enjoys fantasy and action films. Harry duction, which runs two and a half hours, and infiltrated the Ministry up. But the slower Potter may end up being the cinematic that running time allows for more details and of Magic, and Harry, pace is compensated event that defines my generation, and background to be explored. The look of the Ron, and Hermione for by a substantial it is definitely worth seeing in theaters. film is sumptuous with all of the special ef- are forced into hiding. amount of action and However, the plot can be a bit confusing, fects never seeming out of place but a natural Constantly on the run, a perpetual suspense and a prior knowledge of Harry Potter occurrence to the story that is unfolding. they must try to find that hangs over the is probably required to fully under- There’s no need to go into a detailed and destroy the four film. Another drastic stand what is going on. Furthermore, plot description as Potter fans know that remaining horcruxes change between this be warned that Harry Potter and the Voldemort has taken over the Ministry of to truly bring an end movie and the oth- Deathly Hallows: Part One is much to Voldemort. ers is that the three darker than the other films, and parents Magic and Harry, Hermione, and Ron are on Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and Hermione the run. The tent sequences in the book were As an avid Harry (Emma Watson) visit Harry’s dead protagonists are no should employ caution because the film a bit challenging but in the movie they seem Potter reader, I was parents in Harry Potter and the Deathly longer at Hogwarts. could easily disturb young children. perfectly paced as it allows us to spend seri- constantly compar- Hallows: Part One. A great deal of the REVIEW BY CLARA SOFIA ous time with the characters and see what it is about them that we admire so much. While all the characters manage to put in an appearance, it is really about Harry, citizens. Unfortunately very few people will I have in trying to understand the crisis a likeable and Hermione, and Ron and the performers see it. Our society is too content and compla- in the last two years. suspenseful, albeit bring them to life as never before. We have cent, even when most Americans are feeling Some, particularly with right mediocre, film that total identification with these characters as the pinch of the economic downfall. To be leaning political and religious tenden- had the misfortune we have watched them go from childhood to fair, the nearly cataclysmic crash of a couple cies will be a bit trepidatious, thinking of being released young adulthood in the space of nine years of years ago and the subsequent recession is this is going to be a film with a liberal the same day as and see them as real human beings. difficult to understand. Perhaps that’s why agenda. I am very happy to report that HP7 Part I. Even Emma Watson has developed a com- most of us are not demanding justice. this is not the case. Democrats are no though I am a manding presence as Hermione and we Herein lays the importance of this film. safer than Republicans in this film. It’s ‘what-did-we-do- simply can’t take our eyes off her. When she The filmmakers take an in depth analysis not about politics. The filmmakers have before-Russell- speaks we listen, when she reflects so do we. at the banking industry before, during and no other agenda than to inform and Crowe’ kind of fan, Rupert Grint as Ron finally gets to be some- after the collapse. The film is broken into then ask if this is something we can fix. the wait for the thing more than comic relief and he handles five sections, each a different chapter in Ultimately they point out that the same latest Harry Potter his expanded role with great skill. Daniel the evolution of this crisis. After a startling people are still in power and in charge film has been far Radcliffe remains rock solid as Harry but it opening segment about Iceland’s banks (and we are not talking about politics too long. Therefore is really the people around him that we are and their relevance in the global market, here) who created the crisis and got rich Russell Crowe is a man who I had little interest most interested in. the filmmakers introduce us to the various betting on the failure of the system. will go to any lengths to get in seeing anything HP 7 is dark and complex with subtle- bankers, economists, and academics who If you are not outraged when you his wife out of jail and make else that particular their family whole again in ties and complexities from the book perfectly agreed to participate in the film, through come out of this film, you just aren’t The Next Three Days. week. As I reluc- transferred to the film which for the time be- a fast paced series of sound bites – some paying attention. The fact that more tantly opened the ing makes it the best Harry Potter film so far. informative, some stupefyingly disturbing people will watch The Kardashians this door to the theatre I thought the acting In July we’ll see what Part 2 has to say. and some comically week than will likely see this documentary might float it, but I wondered if it was as Rated PG-13 for intense action violence, disturbing. Fortu- during its entire run is almost as disturb- uneven and far-fetched as I had heard. frightening images, and brief sensuality. nately this is just an ing as the conclusion of this film. There is Is it? Well yes, but since when does entrée to the well- really nothing more to say about Inside Job plausibility make or break a film, especially REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN paced, well presented than this – SEE IT. these days? What writer-director Paul Hag- explanation of why gis does do quite well is make something Inside Job ∑∑∑∑1/2 Rated PG-13 for some drug and sex-related we are where we are material. fairly improbable, possible. At first, the Short Take: An exceedingly well today. I gained more story seems straight forward enough and REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN done documentary about the understanding in the fairly predictable; the life of a happily mar- financial crisis which stunned and two hours it took to ∑∑∑ ried couple is thrown into turmoil when crippled the world in 2008. watch this film than The Next Three Days the wife is suddenly accused and convicted ReeL taKe: I’m just going to say it Short Take: A man convinced of his of murder. The husband, now raising their straight out. Inside Job should be man- Inside Job is a wife’s innocence commits to breaking young son on his own, never falters in his datory viewing for all Americans. Ac- comprehensive, must- her out of jail when all hope of appeal belief of his wife’s innocence and will do tually, it’s a global economy, so maybe see documentary is lost. anything to tip the scales of justice. When about the recent it should be mandatory for global economic crisis. ReeL taKe: The Next Three Days is ‘Movies’ continued on page 16

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 15 Highlights for the RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE Holiday Movie Season film reviews nOW pLaYing Burlesque ‘Movies’ continued from pg. 15 Tamara Drewe ∑∑∑∑ Ali is a small-town girl with a big voice Short Take: Romance, mischief and who escapes hardship and an uncertain all hope of appeal is lost, we see how far future to follow her dreams to L.A. writing abound in a little town far from this man is willing to go to save his wife and the madding crowd, but beware of cattle their family. This is when the story be- stampedes. Opening deCeMBeR  comes a stretch of the imagination, but it’s also what makes it more interesting. ReeL taKe: Stephen Frears’ most recent The King’s Speech Crowe’s character, John Brennan, is an effort, Tamara Drewe, is a cheeky adapta- Director Tom Hooper (John Adams) English professor at a community college tion of Posey Simmonds’ graphic novel by teams with screenwriter David Seidler who, after consulting with Damon Penning- the same name, which in turn was inspired (Tucker: A Man and His Dreams) to ton (Liam Neeson), a professional criminal by Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Mad- tell the story of King George VI. who has escaped from jail seven times and ding Crowd. If you have familiarity with written a book about it, John enters a world Aaron Johnson as a teenage John Lennon either the graphic novel or Hardy’s novel, Black Swan in Nowhere Boy. you’ll enjoy some of the film’s moments New York City and a mind-set completely alien to his life even more than the rest of the audience, ballet dancer Nina prior. Can he do everything that Pennington in this vein as Wish You Were Here and (Natalie Portman) says he must be willing and able to do to pull Hope and Glory (both 1987), Loneliness of but it is not necessary to know either of the enters into an in- it off? It is in this transition that Crowe’s the Long Distance Runner (1962) and Get other works to enjoy this sharp-witted romp tense battle of wills performance is at its most impressive, but it Carter (1971). through the English countryside. with a talented and is also where the pacing drags a bit. Fortu- Those of you familiar with the ambitious new ar- nately Haggis succeeds in creating enough Beatles will recognize the title as a vari- rival (Mila Kunis). suspense to keep his audience interested. We ant of the song Nowhere Man. It covers like John, we feel for him, but most of all we John Lennon’s (Aaron Johnson) teenage want him and his son to be o.k. When we years in Liverpool in the mid-1950s when Opening deCeMBeR 10 begin to question his wife’s innocence, we he lived with his conservative Aunt Mimi The Tourist wonder if he’s taking too many risks – there’s (Kristen Scott Thomas) and is reunited with American tourist Frank (Johnny Depp) no way this can end well. his mother Julia (Anne-Marie Duff), who meets a mysterious beauty who drags Crowe’s performance is consistently abandoned him as a child and is something him into a dangerous world of intrigue strong and at times excellent. Elizabeth of a free spirit much like himself. and espionage while traveling through Banks as his wife is also good, but it is The re-creation of 1950s Liverpool is Europe in director Florian Henckel von Crowe’s performance that carries this film. superb (nobody does period re-creation like Donnersmarck’s paranoid thriller. The trailers lead one to believe that Liam the Brits), from the crummy, all the same Neeson is going to be a larger part, when row houses to the clothes and the burgeoning Gemma Arterton heats up the English he is in fact just a really good cameo. Brian British rock and roll scene changed forever by countryside in Tamara Drewe. Dennehy gives an almost silent performance the emergence of Elvis Presley. The cinema- as John’s father, but in the end it’s effective. tography is invisible, never once intruding on When Tamara Drewe (Gemma At- The Next Three Days is not a great a the characters or the story, which allows us to terton) waltzes back into her hometown film, but it has a likeability factor for men become more emotionally involved. after becoming a popular journalist and and women. People who enjoy a mainstream The performances are everything that seeing a plastic surgeon, she turns the sleepy suspense drama will enjoy it. It should be I could have hoped for down to the smallest little town on its ear. She returns to fix up noted The Next Three Days is a remake of bit part but the three principals are absolutely the house she’s inherited from her mother. Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie in a 2007 French film Pour Elle (Anything For outstanding. First-time feature director Sam She enlists the help of Andy (Luke Evans), a The Tourist. Does it get any more childhood friend, former flame and handy- beautiful than this? Her); I wonder how the two compare? Taylor-Wood allows her actors (yes Sam Taylor-Wood is a woman) to develop their man to her nearest neighbors, Nicholas and Rated PG-13 for violence, drug material, lan- Beth Hardiment (Roger Allam and Tamsin guage, some sexuality and thematic elements. characters and never tries to show off her I Love You Phillip Morris directorial skills in a flashy and distracting Grieg). He’s a popular author of spy novels REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN Black comedy starring Jim Carrey as a manner, which has become all too common and she is his put-upon wife. Texas police officer-turned-con man. Their home is a writer’s retreat. Their ∑∑∑∑ these days in smaller independent features. Nowhere Boy 1/2 I was so engrossed in the proceed- most regular guest, Glen (Bill Camp), is The Fighter Short Take: A captivating look at John an American academic and Thomas Hardy Mark Wahlberg ings that it wasn’t until after I had left the Lennon’s teenage years features spot- scholar with a bad case of writer’s block. stars in this theater that the following question occurred on performances and excellent period The townspeople are randomly besieged by inspirational to me. As good as the film was, would I recreation. have been as interested in it if the principal two mischievous schoolgirls who like to toss docudrama as eggs at unsuspecting drivers and daydream lightweight title ReeL taKe: It has become virtually impos- character had not been John Lennon but about rock stars, especially a drummer winner “Irish” sible for me to see a film these days without some ordinary down-and-out teenager with named Ben Sargeant (Dominic Cooper). Micky Ward. recalling, revisiting or in some cases reliving dysfunctional family issues? The answer is movies that I have seen in the past. This is yes I would have been but there’s no deny- As luck would have it, Tamara hooks ing that it was the name John Lennon that up with Ben and he moves to town as well. The Chronicles of Narnia: both good and bad. Good in that it allows me to mention significant earlier films that got me to see the film in the first place. From here mayhem, mix-ups and cattle The Voyage of the Dawn Treader stampedes ensue. In a nutshell, every man Lucy, Edmund, and their cousin Eustace our readers should seek out for a broader Even if you’re not a fan of the Beatles, understanding and greater appreciation of Nowhere Boy will captivate you and help to in town has the hots for Tamara, she gets encounter merfolk, dragons, dwarves, engaged to Ben, but is secretly in love with and a wandering band of lost warriors. the film that I’m reviewing and bad because explain the circumstances surrounding Len- in so many cases, it seems, the newer films non and the rest of the band and how they Andy, Andy is in love with her, but doesn’t The Tempest don’t measure up to the older ones. came together to become…well, you know. think she’d even give him the time of day. Shakespeare goes sci-fi. Across the Nowhere Boy is the type of small, In fact it never once mentions the band’s Nicholas is a lying cheating egomaniac, and Universe’s Julie Taymor shakes up focused, slice-of-life film that the British name for this is really John’s story. Beth suspects her husband is a cheat, but Shakespeare, retrofitting the fantastical keeps cooking and tending her flock of Buff continue to do so well. In connection with Rated R for language and a scene of sexuality. tale with a female lead, casting Academy the previous paragraph, watching this movie Orrington chickens. Glen meanwhile is in REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN Award-winning actress Helen Mirren made me recall such earlier British classics love with Beth and can’t stand her success- in the role of Prospero.

16 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE film reviews ful whore of a husband. One of the girls Unstoppable ∑∑∑1/2 Runaway Train (1985)) during the course of becomes obsessed with Ben (to everyone’s Short Take: Big budgeted, high powered this film and wishing I was at the last two. detriment), Ben’s dog chases cows (to his Tony Scott vehicle with high profile Then there was Scott’s last film, a remake of detriment) and Nicholas hates the cows (yes, star performances is the ultimate 21st The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3, which proved there could be more detriment here as well). century disposable entertainment. to be a dry run for this one. Needless to say the goings on are plen- Believe it or not Unstoppable was tiful and wickedly funny. Because it’s Frears ReeL taKe: I first encountered director based on a real life occurrence that took and because it’s inspired by Hardy, there Tony Scott in 1983 with the stylish Cathe- place in Ohio in 2001. A much smaller are some sharp bites along the way, which rine Deneuve-David Bowie-Susan Saran- train traveling at a lower rate of speed with homogenized American audiences will find don ultracool vampire flick The Hunger, a only a couple of cars of toxic chemicals did startling. But every bite and every bit of movie I very much admired at the time and briefly travel without an engineer, but it cheek serves the story’s plot points, right still one of my favorite films from the 1980s. was quickly overtaken and safely returned down to the song in the end credits. The 27 years and 16 films later we meet again Chris Pine and Denzel Washington with no injuries to anyone or to anything. scenery is bucolic, the cast is clearly having a and quite frankly, unless he changes direc- in Unstoppable. However that would not make for a multi- bit of fun and the audience is too. tion (in more ways than one), I don’t care if million dollar blockbuster so things had to Tamara Drewe has an exclusive engage- I ever see another Tony Scott film. Chris Pine not only fails to engage me but be ratcheted up just a bit. ment at Carolina Cinemas and it probably It isn’t that Scott is a bad director or is already being forgotten before the film is I read one review that compared this won’t be there for long, so if this sounds like that Unstoppable is a bad film, it’s just that over then there is something wrong. movie with Speed (1994) making Denzel your kind of romp, get to the theatre soon. I outgrew his cinematic bag of tricks many Runaway train movies are nothing into Keanu Reeves and Chris Pine into years ago and I have better things to do with new. In fact I was recalling at least three of Rated R for language and some sexuality Sandra Bullock. I can certainly see that but my time. When a $100 million dollar movie them (How the West was Won (1962), Hor- I don’t think any of the four stars would REVIEW BY MICHELLE KEENAN with the likes of Denzel Washington and ror Express (1972), and the ideally named be flattered by that comparison. Of course Tony Scott is not trying to make Oscar ma- terial here. There’s nothing wrong with that but if you don’t engage the moviegoer then Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Michelle Keenan’s Pick: it becomes an exercise in tedium. “Black Christmas” december dvd picks “White Christmas” To be perfectly fair, I was probably the only member of the considerably younger audience who had this reaction. There are Black Christmas (1974) – a time that held a certain charm and enough explosions, collisions, and other If colleague Michelle Keenan is go- camaraderie that just doesn’t seem to exist general mayhem to satisfy the most jaded ing to recommend White Christmas then any more. video game enthusiast. Add rapid fire edit- it is only fitting that I recommend its polar Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye star ing, extremely loud music and sound effects, opposite, Black Christmas, a low budget as Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, a couple an over-saturated use of color and you have Canadian thriller from 1974. While it buddies who became a successful song & the ideal 21st century form of cinematic isn’t exactly what you would call festive dance team after leaving the Army at the expression. Unfortunately I came of cin- material, the film does take place during end of World War II. After meeting Betty ematic age during the 1970s when you got Christmas, has some lovely carol singing, (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy (Vera El- substance with your style and I miss films and was made by Bob Clark, who in 1983 len), sisters who also happen to be a song like Don Siegel’s Telefon (1976) or Robert would give us one of the most beloved of & dance duo, Phil and Judy decide that Aldrich’s Emperor of the North Pole (1973) all holiday movies, A Christmas Story. Bob & Betty belong together. When Betty which not only entertained but engaged me as a liberated “sister” whose attitudes to- I first saw this movie on the drive-in and Judy travel to a cozy old Vermont as well. wards sex and booze shock everyone. Also circuit back in 1975 when it was called lodge to perform a Christmas show, on hand are Keir Dullea and John Saxon Rated PG-13 for sequences of action and peril as Silent Night, Evil Night (producers Bob & Phil follow, only to find out their to add gravitas to the proceedings. well as language. thought Black Christmas would sound beloved commander, General Waverly, is The film was recently restored to REVIEW BY CHIP KAUFMANN like a blaxploitation film). At the time I the owner and is in jeopardy of losing the its original length (98 minutes) and is found it very disturbing although today it lodge. Together the four conspire to help readily available for rental from a variety is nothing compared to the likes of Saw or the general and in doing so, romance and of sources. While not a gather around the Hostel. The plot consists of an unknown mix-ups (of course) ensue. fire family film, Black Christmas makes assailant who makes highly original ob- For many it’s a staple in their holi- true grit good use of its seasonal setting and is defi- scene phone calls to members of a sorority day movie collection. As I recall, Irving nitely something a little different for your Opening December 22 house before sneaking in and killing them Berlin’s song White Christmas, made holiday viewing. one by one. famous by Bing Crosby, was ranked as the A 14-year-old girl (Hailee Steinfeld) The film is a prime example of how #1 song of the 20th century. The song joins an aging U.S. marshal (Jeff Bridges) and another lawman (Matt to generate maximum suspense on a mini- White Christmas (1954) and the movie transcended time and gen- Damon) in tracking her father’s killer I had planned on picking something erations, but I’d wager they are both fairly mum budget without really showing you into hostile Indian territory. anything. The killings are barely glimpsed not altogether wholesome nor of the fam- unknown to the younger generations thanks to the creative use of editing and ily fare variety for my holiday DVD pick coming up now. To the younger genera- handheld camerawork and this only this year, but after seeing Inside Job and tions, I say give this corny old movie a increases the suspense. This uneasiness Fair Game for this issue and in dire need shot. If you’re of a more mature age, how is enhanced by the lovely Yuletide setting of a respite from reality, I decided on a about sharing this corny old movie with and the continual use of Christmas music film from the opposite end of the spec- your family – make a hot chocolate and which contrasts sharply with the maniacal trum. It doesn’t get cleaner or whiter than buttery popcorn (the kind you pop on the whisperings of the killer. White Christmas, but the mere thought stove) movie night of it. Black Christmas is given a boost by of it makes me smile. Like The Bishop’s Maybe it’s a bit of romance and its very strong cast. Olivia Hussy has her Wife and It’s a Wonderful Life (my picks nostalgia, especially at this time of year, best role outside of Romeo and Juliet and for the last two years), White Christmas but for my money White Christmas will always be a great pick at Christmastime. a pre-Superman Margot Kidder is a riot takes you back to a more innocent world Jeff Bridges as Rooster Cogburn and Hailee Steinfeld as Mattie Ross.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 17 2010-2011 SEASON RAPID RIVER ARTS Daniel Meyer, Music Director BUY performance TICKETS NOW! Asheville Choral Society Celebrates SUNDAY DECEMBER 12 3pm MATINEE “Heart and Hearth” he Asheville After completing HOLIDAY POPS Choral Society his music education will present its degree, he served as as- A fun holiday concert for all! holiday concert, sistant director of choirs, “Heart and under John Erwin, at the Hearth:T Songs for the Sea- University of Central SPONSOR son,” with guest conduc- Arkansas, where he com- tor Shane Long pleted the music gradu- Ebeneezer Scrooge, ate program in choral in the pre-revelatory days conducting. before his Christmas Day Long hardly even UPCOMING 2011 CONCERTS transformation, might takes vacations. He’s so have been swayed to good busy that he was especial- cheer by immersing him- ly delighted when he was FEBRUARY 12, 2011 APRIL 9, 2011 self in the attractive musi- able to schedule a visit to cal offerings of the The Shane Long, guest director Asheville to conduct the Romeo & Juliet Eine kleine Nachtmusik Asheville Choral Society. for Asheville Choral Society’s Asheville Choral Society. This year they will pres- December 10 program, Heart and “I truly love Ashe- ent their holiday concert, Hearth: Songs for the Season. ville. I love coming MARCH 12, 2011 MAY 7, 2011 “Heart and Hearth: Songs here to shop or take in for the Season,” on Friday, December 10 a concert or play. It’s hard for me to find New World Symphony Rachmaninoff’s 3rd! at 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 11 at 4 an opportunity to get out,” he says. “So p.m. in Central United Methodist Church, having this opportunity to conduct this located in downtown Asheville. concert was perfect on many levels. The 
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www.ashevillesymphony.org Directed by guest conductor Shane Asheville Choral Society is an amazing Long, the concert will feature choral group of talented people.” compositions that promise to evoke the “Heart and Hearth: Songs for the sentiments of the season through beauti- Season” is the first concert in the Ashe- ful melodies and texts that are both sacred ville Choral Society’s 34th season, “Good and secular. A number of works will be Things Come in Threes…Join Us this introspective a cappella pieces, while others Season.” Each concert will feature a differ- will be rousing arrangements of traditional ent guest conductor. favorites, sprinkled with a few surprises. “Be Here Now: Singing the Tempo- ral Art of Living Composers” will be Beautiful melodies evoke the conducted by Dr. Melodie Galloway on March 5 and 6 in Central United sentiments of the season. Methodist Church. “From Tribulation to Celebration: Finding the Divine Included on the program will be: through Trial” will be conducted by Dr. Rachmaninoff’s “Bogoroditse Devo,” C. Michael Porter, May 21 and 22, 2011 in Mendelssohn’s “Heilig,” Lauridsen’s “O Arden Presbyterian Church. Magnum Mysterium,” and the holiday favorites, “Carol of the Bells,” and “Hal- lelujah Chorus.” iF The Asheville Choral Shane Long is a choral conductor and YOU Society presents “Heart and music educator, whose conducting experi- gO Hearth: Songs for the Season,” ence includes a range of ensembles of all on Friday, December 10 at 8 ages and levels, from children’s community p.m. and Saturday, December choirs to collegiate chamber ensembles. He 11 at 4 p.m. in Central United has organized and led regional/state festivals Methodist Church, downtown Asheville. and clinics and is a member of the American Tickets to “Heart and Hearth” as well as for Choral Directors’ Association and Music the 2010-2011 ACS Season can be purchased Educators’ National Conference. from the Asheville Choral Society via its Since beginning his career as a conduc- website at www.ashevillechoralsociety.org or tor, the Arkansas native has performed with by calling (828) 232-2060. Special discounts ensembles at regional, national and interna- are available for groups of 10 or more. tional concerts and competitions. Some of these include ACDA National Convention in Los Angeles, International Music Festival in Riva del Garda, Italy, ACDA/MENC By supporting Asheville regional conventions, Arkansas and Kansas grown businesses All-State clinics/concerts, and numerous you are promoting a performance series throughout the US, Italy dynamic living economy and the UK. as a way of life.

18 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2010 19

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS asheville shops Simple Elegance oldsmith and designer Susan Marie Phipps offers elegant and affordable one-of- a-kind jewelry of Gexceptional quality at Susan Marie Designs, her gallery and studio in downtown Asheville. With visionary talent and skills acquired in thirty years work- ing as a professional goldsmith, Susan transforms nature’s most precious materials into wearable items of stunning beauty, to be treasured over the lifetime of the owner. A GIA Graduate Gemolo- 14 kt. yellow gold multicolor Sapphire Pendant gist, Susan carefully selects the most vibrantly colored, clear and well- cut stones available for use in her work. “Whenever I find a stone I like I design for it. The stone drives the design, leading me to do something that complements it,” states Susan. Glancing around her shop, one is met by a dazzling array of exotic stones from around the world. “Though I love to work with all varieties of colored gemstones, my favorites include diamonds, all colors The gallery also features the work of of sapphires, tourmalines and garnets, and two other accomplished local artists, the Tahitian black pearls, which come in many sgraffito carved porcelain wares of Karen natural hues,” she reveals. Newgard and the printed silk fabric art of Nature has also inspired Susan in the Laura Sims. way simple and complex forms balance together harmoniously. This quality, which she refers to as “simple elegance” is readily Susan Marie designs seen throughout her work, from wedding bands to more elaborate rings, pendants, ear- 4 Biltmore avenue rings and bracelets. When designing a cus- asheville, nC 28801 tom piece, however, the customer becomes (828) 277-1272 her ultimate inspiration. “I enjoy listening [email protected] to customers express their tastes and discuss their particular budgets and needs,” says Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:0 p.m. Susan. “Once I get a feel for their style I am Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. inspired to create something truly unique.”

Sewell Sillman: Pushing Limits

urrently on This exhibi- display at the tion features many Asheville Art of Sillman’s graceful Museum, abstract drawings and Pushing Limits watercolors alongside Ccelebrates the life and powerful color studies work of groundbreak- created in collaboration ing artist Sewell Sillman with Albers. (1924 - 1992). In the iF YOU gO: Join late 1940s Sillman stud- Assistant Curator ied with Josef Albers at The Seventh Visit by Sewell Sillman. Cole Hendrix for a Black Mountain Col- Courtesy Sewell Sillman Foundation fascinating Art Break lege. Over the decades tour, from 12 noon of their work together, Sillman absorbed to 1 p.m., Friday, December 10, 2010. Albers’ approach to color, design, drawing, Asheville Art Museum, 2 South Pack and education, bringing Albers’ lessons to Square in downtown Asheville. Visit www. bear on his own art and teaching. ashevilleart.org for more information.

20 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS asheville shops New Best Bet for Holiday Shopping oin us for the Guild Artists’ Holiday BY APRIL NANCE Sale at the Folk Art Center on Decem- ber 4 and again on December 11. Mem- bers of the Southern Highland Craft JGuild will be on hand in the center’s sterling & auditorium on these two Saturdays to by sell select work at 10-50% off retail. The sale is an excellent opportunity I8 karat designs for the artist to liquidate overstocks and 2010 items, try out new techniques, and sell Paula Dawkins studio seconds. For the customer, the sale means great deals for holiday shopping and a chance to connect with the craftsperson. It also provides an exciting, festive alternative to mall and big box import shopping. Pedestal bowl by Sarah Wells Rolland Choose from a variety of gift items in- cluding ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass can be inspired by three galleries showcas- and wood. Buying from artists supports the ing the work of current Guild members and local economy and promotes the mission collections from the Guild’s history. They of the Guild, which is bringing together can also shop at Allanstand Craft Shop, the the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern nation’s oldest craft gallery, where they will Highlands for the benefit of shared resourc- find gifts for everyone on their list. es, education, marketing and conservation. More than 70 artists will be participat- www.jewelsthatdance.com ing over the course of the two sales, with a iF The Folk Art Center is Open Sundays in different group of artists each weekend – so YOU located at Milepost 382 plan on coming to both for best selection! on the Blue Ridge Parkway (AYWOOD3Ts!SHEVILLE .#s  s(OURS-ON 3ATDecember 1pm -5pm   Visit www.craftguild.org for a complete list- gO in east Asheville. For more ing of exhibitors. information, call (828) 298- (through Christmas) While at the Folk Art Center, visitors 7928 or visit www.craftguild.org.

Reflections in Metal at the FW Front Gallery at Woolworth Walk

ohn Faulkner’s love for turn- BY MEGAN STONE ing metal into art first began while working for a salvage company in Berkeley, CA. He has been creating unique Jpieces that are functional as well as attractive ever since. He specializes but is certainly not limited to candle stick holders, tables, lamps, and tiny shelves. Dennis Smith has worked with stained and leaded glass for over a decade. His work reflects his interest in architecture and modern design. He experiments with light, color and texture to create custom pieces that are Functional art by Mirror by Dennis Smith contemporary but also reflect the John Faulkner traditions of the past. Recently he has applied the same technique to create mirrors that are both unique and functional. iF Works by John Faulkner and Local artists John Faulkner and Dennis Dennis Smith on display Smith will be featured in the F.W. Front YOU at Woolworth Walk’s Front Gallery at Woolworth Walk for the month of gO Gallery through December December. Come meet the artists and enjoy 30, 2010. Gallery Hours: the opening reception on December 3 from Monday-Thursday 11 to 6 p.m.; Friday 5 to 7 p.m. as well as the last Art Walk of the and Saturday 11 to 7 p.m.; Sunday 11 to year from 5 to 8 p.m. 5 p.m. 25 Haywood Street in Downtown Asheville. Phone (828) 254-9234.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 21

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE asheville shops Local Master Potter Holiday Studio Sale Karen Newgard Five aRtiStS. tWO SatURdaYS. One LOCatiOn! or local master potter Karen n December 4 and December 11 BY KAREN NEWGARD & KENNETH BLACK Newgard the holiday season is sculptor Mimi Strang will hold an not just an isolated time in the annual holiday craft sale year to celebrate life’s bless- at her studio located on ings. Each day as she enters her Domino Lane at 415 Hay- Fstudio she is inspired to create func- Owood Rd. Her studio will be open tional porcelain vessels charmingly from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. both days. decorated with carved images drawn This is the seventh year Strang both from childhood memories and will have a holiday sale, and the from contemporary experiences. fourth at her west Asheville studio. “Growing up in spirited Louisi- Strang’s annual end-of-the-year ana gave me a sense of celebration”, tradition is to host a studio sale with explains Karen. “I strive to make a pot guest artists. This year’s group fea- that honors our daily routines with a tures professional artists who have Elizabeth Hake degree of festivity.” funky chairs, floorboards, bread loaves their studios in west Asheville. Art- Employing the sgrafitto manner of and wine bottles, even cut-open apples, ists Simone Wilson, Karen Newgard, carving developed in the eastern Mediter- complete with seeds. “My interior Jude Stuecker and Elizabeth Hake ranean, Karen carves away stained surfaces scenes began with my memories of our will bring a wide variety of mediums to reveal the underlying white, giving a family gatherings and my grandparents’ and price range to this year’s exciting silhouette effect. Natural subjects — birds farmhouse in Southern Minnesota”, show. Jude Stuecker perched on foliated boughs, dragonflies Karen reveals. Mimi Strang’s artistic begin- hovering among reeds, grasshoppers on A nice selection of Karen’s work is nings were in ceramics. Her interest in other blades of grass, hummingbirds feasting on on display at Susan Marie Designs gallery materials began to express itself as her work morning glories, trees with red fruit — all in downtown Asheville. Available forms became progressively more sculptural and exhibit subtle detail and rhythm. include mugs, elegant vases, jardinières, mixed media in nature. Currently Strang Other pieces humorously depict tall lidded jars, plates, trays, lidded bowls identifies herself as a sculptor whose newest Simone Wilson familiar still life and interior scenes, with with bird finials, and splendid large work is primarily welded steel and cloth. lamps. Vessel interiors come uniformly Covering a wide range of scale, she pro- glazed in a variety of bright colors. duces wall hangings, garden sculpture and Karen Newgard ornaments. Simone Wilson’s mixed media works interesting dichotomy, Susan Marie designs are hand built using salvaged materials and which is both tough and 4 Biltmore avenue, found objects. Through her assemblage elegant. asheville, nC 28801 process she creates figurative “marionette” This year Mimi style sculptures. Wilson takes inspiration Strang’s sale will include (828) 277-1272 from the many wonderful characters and a café of delicious dishes Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 5:0 p.m. personality types she has come in contact and treats created by Sun 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with during her life. She will be showing Karen Newgard and her sculptures both large and small as well as mom Betty Broitzman. paintings this year. Newgard will be cook- Karen Newgard will be bringing her ing up a batch of her hand carved salt-fired porcelain pottery. delicious chicken and Newgard’s pots encompass narratives from sausage gumbo, and 7tH annUaL CandLeLigHt StROLL home life to scenes in nature. The rhythm Broitzman will be baking Mimi Strang of pattern can be seen in Newgard’s pots. her amazing homemade njoy the warmth and spirit of the Several members of the Montford Park Her reductive carving process allows her to cookies, brownies, and dessert breads. Get a holiday season at the 7th Annual Players will also perform inside and explore the surface creating a very celebratory jump on your holiday shopping while enjoy- Candlelight Stroll in downtown outside local businesses. feeling to daily rituals. The salt firing process ing some homemade delights. E Weaverville on Friday, December Horse and carriage rides will be enhances the individual qualities of each pot. 10 from 6 until 9 p.m. available throughout the night. Rides Jude Stuecker makes hand-dyed and Santa will open the festivities a begin outside Rodney’s Automotive printed cotton knit clothing. Stuecker’s start For examples of each artist’s work visit: little before 6 p.m. in a horse drawn and will include guides from the Dry began with a chance encounter sewing for a www.pleasanthughstudio.com carriage that will travel through town. Ridge Museum. The museum will also puppeteer. Shortly after, she bought her first www.judestuecker.com Merchants on Main Street will re- be open during the event for those in- sewing machine and began her first quilt. www.karennewgardpottery.com main open until 9 p.m. to allow stroll- terested in learning about the cultural Along with her clothing line she will have www.elizabethhake.com ers to pick up those holiday essentials. heritage of the Reems Creek and Flat stuffed toys, change purses, and scarves at Your shopping experience will be Creek townships. the holiday sale. enhanced by entertainment from the Hot chocolate and raffle tickets for Elizabeth Hake’s jewelry is inspired by Sweet Adeline’s, Weaverville First Bap- gifts from some of the local merchants iF Holiday Studio Sale, the past life and unknown origin of found Saturday, December 4 & tist Church Hand Bell Choir, South- will be available for purchase. A por- materials. Many of the found pieces utilized YOU 11 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ern Connection Cloggers, Joyful Noise tion of the proceeds will go to the have been outside exposed to the elements gO 415 Haywood Road, behind Dragonscales Chamber Quartet, North North Buncombe Samaritan Minis- creating interesting random patterns. The Harvest Records in West Buncombe Middle School Band, tries to help those in need this holiday found materials combined with her own Asheville. Phone (828) 337-2945 for and Jill Totman, resident storyteller. season and throughout the year. original designs and elements produces an more details.

22 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE asheville shops Gvng t Gf  Fn Chclt he panic sets in right after Thanks- should know how to BY DENNIS RAY giving when you realize there are pack it for travel, but only weeks left until Christmas. try not to put it in your This means shopping, wrap- checked luggage. If you T ping and sometimes shipping out “Chemically speaking, plan to be traveling for gifts for immediate family, in-laws, friends, a while it may be best co-workers, em- chocolate really is the to have them ship your ployees, neighbors world’s perfect food.” order to coincide with and those who have your arrival home. helped out all year ~ Michael Levine, nutrition You can place your long like the mail researcher, as quoted in The holiday orders now for Emperors of Chocolate: Inside the carrier and paper delivery or for in store Secret World of Hershey and Mars delivery person. pick-up before Christ- Owner Bill Foley is interviewed by a local reporter during the And what about mas. Bill encourages their mailbox and was subsequently covered shops’ grand re-opening celebration. the mechanics, the everyone to order early with snow from the snowplow. “I am a teachers, your spa so they are sure to get customer for life,” the man said. “You really therapist, your…? what they want. Some- do care about your customers.” Yes, that list goes times they have difficulty They use only the highest quality choc- the Chocolate Fetish inc. on and on. Experts keeping up with demand. olate and the final product is kept in temper- say gift-buying Order online at www. 6 Haywood Street ature-controlled cases with low humidity. leads to the highest amount of stress during chocolatefetish.com or downtown asheville, nC. Try to come in person to see the expanded the holidays than any other factor. So what phone (828) 258-2353. store highlighted by the recycled antique can you do? (828) 258-25 showcases and Christmas decorations, then Bill and Sue Foley of the newly expand- www.chocolatefetish.com take a moment and step around to the back ed Chocolate Fetish in downtown Asheville of the store (inside the upscale Haywood offer some holiday help. Park Hotel) and watch through the glass “We focus on the details,” Bill says, “so windows as the chocolates are made The you do not have to. Stop by, email, phone in experience holds a charming old-fashioned your order for one box or hundreds of gift feel, like visiting Santa’s workshop. packs and we’ll take care of the packaging, Their daughter, Elizabeth Foley, and the shipping and we’ll even hand print your the trained chocolatiers create beautiful holiday wishes on each of your gift packages chocolate sculptures, hand-painted choco- for no extra charge.” late shoes and boots, trees with cocoa butter They deliver anywhere in the country. snow, Santas and smaller stocking stuffers “Our goal,” Bill adds, “is to combine the and the popular smash cakes. best possible chocolate you can find any- The smash cakes are hand-made espe- where in the world with the best possible cially for you. They consist of a solid choco- service. We will go the extra mile for each late shell and can be filled with your choice and every one who calls, visits, or shops of chocolates. With a small hammer you from our website.” break the cake into bite size pieces and serve Last year Bill received a call from a your guests. For the holidays the Chocolate customer in the snow belt complaining his Fetish will again offer chocolate Champagne order never arrived. Worried that the order bottles filled with 100% Belgian chocolate probably got lost in the mail he promptly morsels. These make incredible host/hostess sent out another order. Two weeks later he gifts that everyone of all ages will enjoy. received a call from that same client saying “We use the same chocolate in our that they found the original order. It had molded chocolates as we do in our award been placed at the base of winning truffles,” Elizabeth says. A chocolate truffle is a type of chocolate confectionery; traditionally made with a chocolate ganache center coated in chocolate or cocoa powder, usually in a spherical, conical, or curved shape. Travelers may wonder if high-end chocolate will suffer on a long journey home. While experts agree chocolate truffles are best eaten soon after they are made, they can travel if you take precautions discriminating chocolate lovers have been to keep them at a cool, stable temperature. enjoying quality, award winning, handmade You’ll know you’ve failed if your chocolate chocolates from the Chocolate Fetish since starts to turn white, which indicates that 1986. Home of america’s Best truffles™ and the cocoa butter has separated out of the ecstasy truffles™ premium american and blend. This doesn’t affect the taste but it european style chocolates. does change the eye appeal. Your chocolatier

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 2

prints color Rapid River RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE poetry & books th Annual Poetry Contest ’All Kinds of Life Happens in Contemporary Appalachia’ 14 5 Winners prizes include: tickets to local concerts; A Fr-Lng P ry Athloy tickets to the Opera; Mellow Mushroom gift any Americans misunder- BY TED OLSON Certificates; and books from Malaprops. stand Appalachia and tend Michael McFee, to see the region as if it Joseph Bathanti, were lost in the past — as if an impressive array of poems. When and Ron Rash are any Unpublished poem it were still stuck in an old, attempting to identify a distinctively among the poets 5 Lines or Less is Wanted! Mblack and white newsreel. Yet, what Appalachian poem, the editors were representing Rapid other American region is as loved as guided by “open-tent” perimeters: River’s base area Deadline January 15, 2011. Appalachia by those who know it well? “We did not take a ‘natives only’ ap- of western North Reading Fee: $5 for three poems. Winning poems This distinctively Appalachian love proach in our selection process,” they Carolina). will be printed in the February 2011 issue. For more of place is memorably represented in confess in an introductory statement, While poetry information please call (828) 258-3752. a new book that features a generous “and we did not wish to see the birth aficionados across Appalachia will sampling of poetry composed by 80 certificates of the contributing poets.” already know the work of a number Send poems to: Rapid River of the poets (several of whom can Poetry Contest, 85 N. Main St., Canton, NC 28716 present-day poets with discernable ties What were they looking for? In the to the region. book’s introduction, east Tennessee- boast national reputations), even the The Southern Poetry Anthology, based poet Graves eloquently conveys most diehard poetry fan will no doubt Volume III: Contemporary Appalachia, the rationale for their selection process: discover some memorable voices that as its title suggests, is part of an exciting “The voices of the poems repre- he or she had previously overlooked. series of books from Texas Review sented in this anthology are diverse Uninitiated readers who give this Press showcasing poetry from across and multi-layered. The editors hope book a chance — whether or not they the American South. Two previous vol- that you, the reader, will feel as we do: live in Appalachia — will be pleasantly umes have been released, one collecting that they belong together. If they are surprised at the windows many of poetry from South Carolina, the other not all blood-kin, they nevertheless these poems open, allowing new per- featuring poems from Mississippi. form a family through the marriage spectives on familiar mountain scenes. of a particular place and the Beyond providing an excellent inspiration it produces. survey of the types of poetry being eLegY FOR a HaY RaKe “Poetry remains an essen- composed in Appalachia today, the tially solitary engagement, both anthology will encourage broader To every thing its season, and to every tool in the writing and the reading awareness of and discussion about the its final turn; to the Farmhand rake my father of it, and the strongest poems history of the region’s poetry. (Read- bought hard-used in 1976, rust has eaten away ers seeking a fuller analysis of that his- all your labels, all your sheen and simple function; always emanate from a distinc- to what I hope is my last sight of you, unhitched tive individual perspective. tory may consult two recent scholarly and standing in the field like a photograph Nevertheless, poets and their books, Chris Green’s The Social Life Advertise with Rapid River Magazine from the Great Depression; poems thrive in community of Poetry: Appalachia, Race, and Radi- farewell to the cut hay left with others: Conversations cal Modernism and John Lang’s Six (828) 646-0071 scattered on the ground to rot, nothing ate you flourish, ideas circulate, argu- Poets from the Mountain South.) Free web links • Free ad design but the soil that birthed you; to the tractor tire ments occur — this was true of In essence, The Southern Poetry Easy monthly billing those long grappling points missed by inches the expatriate American Mod- Anthology, Volume III: Contemporary on every sharp turn, you survived without puncture; ernists, the British Romantics, Appalachia provides a glimpse of the to the long afternoon hours spent digging clumps and the Greek lyric poets, and future for Appalachia’s poetry. This out of the balers’ clenched teeth, good money anthology accomplishes the difficult cannot buy you back; we believe it is equally true of so long to the lucky machine, the poets collected here. feat of being deeply grounded in a re- lucky I won’t sell you as an antique, that no one will “All kinds of life happens vered past while also being thoroughly paint you red, white, and blue and plant you in a garden, in contemporary Appalachia, contemporary, and even visionary, in or hang you on a restaurant wall; goodbye to the five and we hope you enjoy the mapping out new aesthetic spaces and leaning wheels, their crooked tines turning, reaching up music that rises in the air above senses of place that should prove useful like broken fingers to wave hello, hello, goodbye. so much living, music that our for the region’s future residents. poets have translated into the ~ Jesse Graves words that fill these pages.” ted Olson is the author of from The Southern Poetry Anthology, such books as Breathing Volume III: Contemporary Appalachia Readers will not find in this anthology any poems in darkness: poems (Wind publications, 2006) composed by several poets and Blue Ridge Folklife Series editor William Wright historically associated with Appala- (University press of projects that there will eventually be chia, such as James Still, Jesse Stuart, Mississippi, 1998) and he Louise McNeill, Jim Wayne Miller, is the editor of numerous approximately fourteen volumes in all, books, including CrossRoads: a Southern with each volume dedicated to repre- or Jonathan Williams. In celebrating Culture annual (Mercer University press, senting contemporary poetry from one truly “contemporary” poetry from the 2009). His experiences as a poet and Southern state or one Southern sub- region, the editors include living poets musician are discussed on www.windpub. region (with a possible final volume to exclusively (though at least one poet, com/books/breathingindarkness.htm. compile highlights from throughout George Scarbrough, passed away dur- Poets who would like for their poetry to be the series). ing the editing process). Indeed, cur- rently active poets from virtually every considered for a future column may send In preparing this anthology their books and manuscripts to Ted Olson, of Appalachian poetry, Wright and section of Appalachia can be found in ETSU, Box 70400, Johnson City, TN two other editors, Jesse Graves and the anthology (Fred Chappell, Robert 37614. Please include contact information Paul Ruffin, solicited and selected Morgan, Kathryn Stripling Byer, and a SASE with submissions.

24 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE authors ~ books ~ readings

Bringing Nature Home: How You Can REVIEWS BY CAULEY BENNETT Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants garden experts to figure this Written by Douglas W. Tallamy, foreword by Rick Darke out, but now that they have, the proof is incontrovertible. hat a surprise this book is. At first kaleidoscope colored butterflies The population of our na- glance, Bringing Nature Home: or fuzzy bumblebees, but creepy, tive birds and insects is rapidly We host numerous Readings, How You Can Sustain Wildlife crawly things that most people deCeMBeR Bookclubs, as well as poetrio! dwindling. We need to retire PARTIAL LISTING More events posted online. W with Native Plants (Timber don’t think about. all those non-native plants and Press) seems to be a book on bugs, because It turns out that ignorance reintroduce natives. And we don’t Saturday, december 4 from 11 to 1 p.m. it’s filled with color photos of insects — not of bugs is a nationwide prob- have time to wait for governments CaRRie WagneR BOOKSigning – village lem — a situation that author Douglas to take the lead. It’s up to the home gardener Wisdom continues to inspire people who W. Tallamy — and his growing legion of are moved by her photographs and the to create pockets of environmental vibrancy. story of her three years in Uganda with At Home: A Short converts — is trying to change. His message Tallamy’s message is persuasive and Habitat for Humanity international. is simple: “Unless we restore native plants his text is both informative and understand- to our suburban ecosystems, the future of Saturday, december 4 from 4 to 5 p.m. History of Private Life able. The more you read, the more beautiful dena HaRRiS signs copies of her book biodiversity in the United States is dim.” those photos of creatures become. The book Written and read by Bill Bryson Who Moved My Mouse?, a perfect fit for In essence, the use of non-native plants ends with a long list, by region, of the types cat lovers with a wicked funny bone! in our gardens does nothing for our envi- of plants we should be growing. If you’re n At Home: A Short Monday, december 6 at 7 p.m. BRidging ronment. Those pretty Asian ornamentals a home gardener and are serious about History of Private diFFeRenCeS BOOKCLUB – Join host patti look good, but our native insects — which creating a balanced environment on your Life (Random House digh for a discussion of Mary pipher’s the are the primary food source for our na- property, you must read this book. Middle of everywhere. Audio 16-1/2 hours), tive birds — don’t like to eat them. Fewer authorI Bill Bryson en- www.bringingnaturehome.net tuesday, december 7 at 7 p.m. BOOK insects=fewer birds. It’s taken a while for thralls readers with the ReCOMMendatiOnS FOR KidS, with history of what people penguin representative doni Kay, did in the various rooms HarperCollins rep eric Svenson, and Sarah nasif from Random House. each title of their houses and how Expressive Drawing: Practical Guide discussed will be 10% off that evening! they tried over time to improve domestic living. to Freeing the Artist Within Friday, december 10 at 7 p.m. photographer MiCHaeL CaRLeBaCH signs Covered are diverse topics as epidemics, Written by Steven Aimone copies of his newest book, Sunny Land, once-a-year sex, lethal wall painting, why which offers both realistic and comic forks have four tines, and why indoor toilets hat a terrific book! Based on the art principles of views of Miami and south Florida during took so long to become accepted. Most popular workshops presented by shape, texture, and the last decades of the 20th century. domestic improvements were made in the Asheville artist/educator Steve rhythm. Saturday, december 11 from  to 5 p.m. Victorian era, that most inventive yet class- Aimone, Expressive Drawing In addition to gLORia HOUStOn signs copies of her conscious age. W appalachian Christmas story, the Year of (Lark Books 2009) can be used happily by the lessons that compel you to gather If you long for the “good ole days,” by any artist, student or teacher. It’s written drawing pencils and paper immediately, the perfect Christmas tree. the time you finish this book, you’ll re-think in clear, encouraging prose, and lavishly there are pithy profiles of artists who dem- thursday, december 16 at 7 p.m. StitCH- those smelly, unhealthy, labor-intensive, illustrated with how-to photos and famous onstrate the expressive drawing principles. n-BitCH – Bring your current projects and woman-demeaning times gone by and thank drawings from today and the past. If you’re Also included are samples from well- talk shop with fiber artist “Urban gypz,” your lucky stars you’re living now. thinking of a holiday gift that inspires, this known expressive artists (Modigliani, Stacey Budge-Kamison. www.booksattransworld.co.uk/billbryson book would be a wonderful pick. Picasso, Jackson Pollock, etc.) and introduc- Sunday, december 19 at  p.m. Come Often intimidated by poor attempts tions to others — such as my new favorite, meet SUSan RUnHOLt, author of the Kari to draw realistically, many creative people Elizabeth Layton (1910-1993), a self-taught + Lucas mysteries – the Mystery of the have shied away from pursuing visual art. artist known as “Grandma Moses on Tabas- third Lucretia, Rescuing Seneca Crane, and the forthcoming adventure at Simba Aimone’s book proves that anyone can co Sauce,” who didn’t start drawing her Hill – a wonderful young adult series. zOMBieS aRRive at draw expressively — by relying on a practi- hilarious, poignant work until her late 60s. cal series of steps, focusing on the simple www.aimoneartservices.com Monday, december 20 at 7 p.m. COMiX BLUe Ridge BOOKS CLUB – Join host gina Marie Cole for a discussion of alison Bechdel’s Fun Home. Local author Eric S.Brown has updated Coming Soon – eLizaBetH giLBeRt! a classic H.G. Wells The Confession tale with his favorite Written by John Grisham, read by Scott Sowers 55 Haywood St. creatures — zombies. The title explains it all: f you want to know what steps have my heart racing with 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 War of the Worlds Plus to be taken in the U.S. to save a con- the impassioned attor- Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Blood, Guts, and Zom- demned prisoner from legal execution, ney who desperately Sunday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. bies (Simon & Schuster). Blue Ridge and witness the travesties of injustice tries to save him. Books is throwing a wild publishing Ithat can occur from a system that isn’t It’s an unforgettable party in Brown’s honor. No real car- working, then you will be fascinated by John experience — and will convince readers that nage permitted, but all zombies and Grisham’s latest law thriller, The Confes- capital punishment must be stopped. aliens are invited. sion (14 1/2 hours, Random House Audio.). By comparison, alas, the last third of the Though fictionalized, many of the book is a let-down emotionally. You don’t iF YOU gO: Friday, December horrifying scenes in the book are based on really need to read past the culminating 17, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Blue fact, including recent headlines. The first scene — and you’ll know what it is when Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St. in two-thirds of The Confession were so cap- you reach it. Waynesville, NC. (828) 456-6000 or tivating that I found myself grieving for the www.jgrisham.com visit www.brbooks-news.com. innocent young man on death row and felt

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE authors ~ books ~ readings

Poet on the REVIEW BY BYRON BALLARD aCCent On BOOKS deCeMBeR HigHLigHtS Roof of the World: at MaLapROp’S thursday, december 2 The Kythera Poems The prologue is an ode to the at 6:00 p.m.. thursday, december 2 Kytherian Aphrodite. Written by Barbara Gravelle Gwen Suesse discusses at 7 p.m. How far out was she when her highly acclaimed new Stephanie Perkins, an rize-winning poet Barbara Gravelle she rose — dripping salt water book, Womansong: Bal- Asheville writer, pres- owns a second home on the small from her soaked saffron hair ance and Harmony in A ents her first hardcover Mediterranean island of Kythera. In water droplets reflecting Feminine Key (Cantando Press). It’s novel, Anna and the her downtown Asheville home, she opals and diamonds a series of memorable reflections on French Kiss. The young Psits in her sunny rooms, on breasts and arms, her flesh modern womanhood, with an empha- adult tale takes place in high above our moun- the color of the shell she sis on music and its symbolism for life. the world’s most romantic city — will tain town and dreams rode in on. a dashing French boy steal Anna’s Friday, december 10 of the sea and the light Sly humor runs throughout this evoca- at 6:00 p.m. heart from hometown Georgia sweet- on the low Greek hills. tive collection and some of the pieces carry heart? A Malaprop’s staff favorite. Her recently pub- a darkness just under the surface. It is the Best-selling Asheville lished poetry chap- juxtaposition of this light and dark — this author Sarah Gruen Saturday, december 4 presents her intriguing from 2 to  p.m. book, Poet on the chiaroscuro — that gives Poet on the Roof Roof of the World: of the World a weight that is almost tangible. new novel Ape House. Ken Harmon, from The Kythera Poems Gravelle peppers her work throughout with She researched this story Charlotte, NC, has (Archangel Press) Greek phrases and words, and there are of language-competent apes at The written a twisted is based on writ- helpful notes at the back. Her gift is to be- Great Ape Trust in Des Moines, Iowa, holiday satire as his ings she began in Greece. Wendy Patridge, stow on her readers a longing for the sights, an unforgettable experience for her first published novel: who spent time with Gravelle on Kythera, smells, and tastes of this ancient place that — and her readers. The Fat Man: A Tale of contributed the line drawings. she loves. North Pole Noir. Sounds like my kind Friday, december 17 of book: a hilarious, grouchy, Dashiell at 6:00 p.m. Hammett-inspired take on the 1,300- Patti Digh is Asheville’s year-old elf responsible for the lumps humorous and more ram- of coal the naughty kids get in their Permission to Nap: Taking Time bunctious version of Julia stockings. to Restore Your Spirit Cameron (The Artist Way). Her latest creativity kicker, Creative Is A Verb, is Saturday, Written by Jill Murphy Long as much fun to look at as it is to read. december 11, from 1 to 2 p.m. on’t let the brevity of this review fool fully illustrated, iF YOU gO: Accent on Books, 854 North Carolina you. Permission to Nap (Source- especially with Merrimon Ave. in Asheville. Free. Light refreshments are served. Visit photographer books) is one of the best books I’ve portraits of gor- www.accentonbooks.com. Bowman Gray read in ages. If you need a rationale geous napping Dto take a nap, author Jill Murphy Long women. IV pairs his beautiful color photos with the inspiring words of James Allen’s provides you with many, including health Do yourself a favor this classic book, As a Man Thinketh, first benefits and boosting creativity. holiday season, busy women — get a copy published in 1902. The lavish gift edi- The book is not only a much needed of this tiny treasure — read a few pages, and The Chamber of Truth: tion is bound to revive interest in Allen tribute to the act of napping but also a com- then shamelessly take a nap. Quest for the Jewel and his practical wisdom. prehensive guide to its accoutrements such as nap recipes, nap beverages, aromatherapy, Written by John M. Burchfield Saturday, december and music to nap by. It’s useful and inspir- ove over, Dan 11, from  to 5 p.m. ing, and also a gem to look at — beauti- REVIEW BY CAULEY BENNETT Brown! Lo- Gloria Houston signs cal first-time her beloved Appala- author, John M. chian holiday story, Burchfield,M is yapping at Year of the Perfect I Remember Nothing and Other Reflections your heels with a rousing Christmas. The book, Written and read by Nora Ephron adventure tale that will illustrated by Caldecott Medalist appeal to many of your Barbara Cooney, is a favorite for young readers. The Chamber of readers and adults alike. espite the claim in her new book’s Her memories of title, I Remember Nothing (Ran- her journey through Truth: Quest for the Jewel (The P3Press) iF YOU gO: Malaprop’s Bookstore/ dom House Audio), Nora Ephron is journalism, from mail is set in an alternative reality Israel, where Café, 55 Haywood Street, downtown lying. From a lifetime of hip social girl to award-winning headlines mix with unleashed secrets. Asheville. Call (828) 254-6734, or visit Dadventures in Manhattan and Hollywood, reporter, growing As a real-life Freemason, Burchfield has www.malaprops.com. she remembers quite a bit. Journalist, foodie, from a naïve idealist enriched his modern story with ancient Ma- angry ex-wife (Heartburn), film director into a hardened news sonic lore and symbolism. Masons will love (Julie and Julia), and bestselling essayist (I realist, is like a fast- it and non-Masons will be fascinated. Think Feel Bad About My Neck), Nora Ephron, paced montage of American feminist the famous Temple of Solomon has been now age 69, for decades knew everyone who history. lost to history forever? Think again, says Rapid River Book editor was anyone in the fields of journalism and Only three hours in length, I Remem- Burchfield. Then add the conflict between Cauley Bennett is an entertainment. ber Nothing is an ideal distraction from Palestine and Israel, lurking danger, under- asheville writer. You can This latest collection of Ephron’s holiday busyness. ground caves, a mysterious jewel, a widow’s reach her by e-mailing essays is alternately hilarious and thought- son, a struggling king, and a passionate [email protected] ful, occasionally poignant and always edgy. romance — great fun! REVIEW BY CAULEY BENNETT www.johnburchfieldbooks.com

26 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE artful living

make love or have a particularly cre- Me in the Universe BY BILL WALZ ative moment in our work, or play with our dog or child, or take a fully It is imperative to abandon the idea of a “myself” standing in opposition attentive hike in the woods. standing in front of us becomes obvi- to “others.” This is an illusion produced by a false view of things. It happens any time that our ous. Space connects rather than To come to self-realization you must directly experience yourself and experience of the moment is separates, and you “experience the Universe as one. . . . You understand this theoretically, but . . . you direct and pure – there is no yourself and the Universe as one.” It is not a mental abstrac- must let go of logical reasoning and grasp the real thing. sense that there is an “I” hav- ing it. Sometimes this is called tion – out there. It is who we are, ~ Yasutani Roshi (1885-1973) “flow.” There is only the mo- right here, right now, and true ment in experience. We shift meditation teaches us this. from having conscious- The entire world he standard American perspec- cal body and mental processes and social ness of “I” at the center begins to be experienced tive has “me” as the center of my affiliations, and the rest of the Universe is of our experience, to from a subjective as well universe. We tend to enter into each out there, and it is a mistake to turn that the experience being the as an objective perspec- moment with the perspective of experience into a fiction, a delusion. There center of “I.” Perhaps it tive. We live in both the “what’s in it for me?” We are look- is me, in society (another pattern of energy could also be expressed personalized, social Ting for what in this moment will enhance that we are within) out there (welcome to as the realm of our construct and the me, and guarding against what will detract paradox). I am the subjective center of that Beingness infinitely Universally related from me. Admittedly sometimes our sense world. But to end there, to have that be all connected to shared construct. Our per- of enhancement comes from altruistic and that we are, is a trap. It turns all of the world Beingness with all Cre- sonal lives become in- generous motives, but we still have a sense and its contents, including people, animals, ation, in a given moment or activity. creasingly “wonder-full” and our relation- of “me” as the source of altruism at the the natural forces and resources of the This is the non-dualistic perspective ship to Life and our fellow Beings, human, center of our consciousness. planet into objects – literally resources for of Buddhism and of mystics from every animal and planetary becomes increasingly This is a perspective that makes sense exploitation. From this perspective, we are culture. “You must experience yourself deeply respect-full and care-full. And that from a highly personalized point of view, able to rationally distance ourselves, engage and the Universe as one . . . you must let is what I call salvation, “but . . . you must what can be called the egoic perspective, but in limitless manipulative and acquisitive go of logical reasoning and grasp the real let go of logical reasoning and grasp the it is a perspective that is extremely limited behavior, and create much harm, as well as thing.” Now, why is this important? It is a real thing.” and limiting. It is a perspective that causes feel we are being harmed. It is a prison of marvelous esoteric concept, and it is great our experience of life often to be immedi- subjective isolation in a perceived Universe when it happens, but why must we “grasp ately, and always ultimately, unsatisfying, of competing, sometimes hostile, objects. the real thing?” Bill Walz teaches meditation and one that has immense implications for So, when we live as if this “I,” this body Because it doesn’t have to be acciden- and mindfulness at UnCa and humans as a source of harm and disharmo- and mental activity, is the limit of who I am, tal, it can be cultivated, and it is our salva- public forums, and is a private- tion. It is the path to individual salvation practice meditation teacher and ny in the Universe. it is an ultimately harmful perceptual delu- life-coach for individuals in sion, and we live trapped in this delusion. from being psychologically and spiritually mindfulness, personal growth We are unable to realize and experience, that lost, and it is the path to salvation for the and consciousness. The Universe is the human species, as well as the many, many this “I” is, ultimately and at the most funda- He holds a weekly meditation essence of who I am, and, mental level, a center of perception, of con- species whose existence is threatened by class, Mondays, 7 p.m., at the Friends Meeting there both is and isn’t sciousness, within the Universe that is made human activity. It ultimately is the path House, 227 edgewood, in asheville. He will hold that leads to sustainable well being for any sense of “I” at the up of infinite such centers, thus allowing, a Winter Satsang, Saturday, January 22, from in effect, the Universe to be the center of human society on this planet Earth. It is 2 to 5 p.m. a time for true, self-exploration, center of it. “me.” This center is nowhere specifically the necessary consciousness that opens discussion, and meditation, at the Friends Meeting House. Both by donation. finite – and, here comes paradox again, it is. humanity’s evolution into what the deep Buddhism presents us with a radically It is here. And it is everywhere. ecologist Thomas Berry described as the information on classes, talks, personal growth different perspective for our consideration, Wherever your consciousness per- “Ecozoic Era,” when humanity realizes its and healing instruction, or phone consultations naturally mutually enhancing relationship at (828) 258-241, or e-mail healing@billwalz. one that has “me” as a center in the Uni- ceives, there is the Universe, and the most com. visit www.billwalz.com verse and the Universe as the center of me. fundamental “me” is this consciousness within the planet’s ecosystem. The Universe and I are one. It is a non-du- perceiving this moment. The Universe is When we shift having “I” as the center alistic perspective. Ultimately, there is no not anything separate, but it is the essence of experience, into experience (conscious- “me” as distinct from the Universe or the of who I am, and, there both is and isn’t any ness of the moment) being the center of “I,” contents of the Universe, for the Universe sense of “I” at the center of it. From this the Universe opens. If you want your life to is all there ultimately is. The Universe is perspective, we see the interconnectedness be wonderful (and who doesn’t?) you must an infinite pattern of energy containing and relatedness of all of Life’s expressions allow your life to be filled with wonder, infinite patterns of energy all connected and a natural compassionate and benevo- not “I” looking for wonderful experiences energetically. lent attitude results. With this realization – which to the egoic “I” are unique, rare What we experience as “me” at its also comes a deep sense of placement and and exceptional. When we stop running the ultimate dimension is a pattern of energy, of belonging in the Universe. The personal thought-driven mental program of “I, me, physical and consciousness energy, within perspective and the ultimate or Universal mine” and open consciousness fully into patterns of energy, within patterns of energy perspective balance each other. the world just as it is, then the reality of within the one great pattern of energy that is This may sound philosophically/spiri- “I” as an expression of the Universe within the Universe. It is into this ultimate dimen- tually fascinating, but still, theoretical or the Universe expressing itself in infinite sion, and our connection to and through the even absurd, but it is, as a fact, the experi- subtlety of form and energy, fills us. expanding, concentric fields of energy and ence that is central to all that is pleasing This is the essence of wonder that reality along the way, that Buddhism and and natural in our experience. We just is described as the spiritual or mystical meditation seek to awaken us. don’t notice it. It becomes the accidental experience, and the potential is there every That said… we are also, this dualistic pleasure and joy in our lives that we at- moment, because this is the reality of how consciousness in our perceptual experience, tribute to the situation – as in being happy things actually are. Our connectedness to and so, there is me, separate, this physi- when we recreate or listen to music or the flower, the bird, the tree, the person

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE healthy lifestyles

Vegetables for Adults BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD

he little blue book with the The strong • Antioxidants; like glutathione (in green leafy border and the muscles and the addition to vitamins E and C) cartoon-drawn fruits and strong bones • Phytochemicals: including poly- vegetables is titled “Give Me make sense. phenols and flavenoids 5 a Day!” What about the TBraeden, a four year old who is strong blood? Not only are many of these anti- learning to read, can read this book Strong blood is about the bacterial and anti-viral, they are also which is written at a beginning reader’s cells that travel around in the blood, anti-cancer and anti-aging. level. The subject is fruits and veg- especially the white cells – the im- Why the big deal about eating etables. The purpose of the book from munity front line. All of those special your fruits and vegetables for a four the Florida Department of Health elements which are responsible for the year old? In a recent survey of adult is: Get the kids to eat their fruits and body’s ability to fight cancer and infec- eating habits, only 30% of adults are vegetables – 5 a day. tions are in the fruits and vegetables. eating 2 fruits a day; only 25% of adults are eating 3 vegetables a day. Braeden is also learning four sim- • Vitamin A and beta-carotene ple rules about the foods he is eating: Who should be most interested in • Vitamin B complex; including nia- preventing cancer and anti-aging ef- 1. Protein – for strong muscles cin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, folate fects – a four-year-old or an adult? 2. Dairy – for strong bones • Vitamin C Whether you are 4 or 34 or 64 – remember the small blue book with 3. Fruits and vegetables • Vitamin E “The snoring – for strong blood the green foliage border: “Give Me 5 • Minerals; like selenium, zinc, cal- a Day.” Put the color in your diet. Eat has completely 4. Grains and cereals – for energy cium, potassium your fruits and vegetables. stopped.” – Dave M., Actual Customer Teens to Aid WNC Migrant Families A Good Night’s Sleep for Both of You Before BY HARMONY JOHNSON It’s estimated that 73 million people in the US at KanUga YOUtH COnFeRenCe have a snoring problem1. But not these folks! They represent the hundreds of thousands of eens from across the country will have the oppor- Participants will spend an afternoon assembling “no snorers who have been helped by PureSleep tunity to aid families in Western North Carolina sew” blankets with prayers tucked between two layers of – a safe, comfortable, self-molded mouthpiece that gently holds the jaw forward, opening the during the 35th annual Winterlight conference fleece. The finished blankets will be given to the BRCHS airway to stop snoring. December 27 through January 1, 2011 at Kanuga community outreach program, which helps migrant work- After Conferences Inc. ers and their families gain access to health care and other Find out if PureSleep® can work for you, too. T The conference for students in grades 9-12 is partnering services including housing, clothing and food. Try it risk-free. with Blue Ridge Community Health Services, a Henderson- Henderson County has a large population of seasonal ville-based nonprofit that provides affordable medical, dental workers drawn by agriculture and construction industry jobs. and mental health care as well as health education. They often live in work camps lacking many basic necessities. “Right outside the border of Kanuga, there are people in need,” said conference coordinator Dee Zeller of Stevens- ville, MD. “This is a way for us to help spread warmth and to give them prayers.” “If it weren’t Begun in 1976, Winterlight draws students from many for PureSleep, states and dioceses. The conference provides a supportive we would be Episcopal community where young people gather to explore their faith, make new friends and ring in the new year. For sleeping in more details, visit www.kanuga.org or call (828) 692-9136. separate beds.” – Jacquelyn M., Wife of Actual Customer Stewards of Children Empowering People to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse Call Now for a FREE TRIAL Stewards of Children is the only nationally available program scientifically proven to increase knowledge, improve attitudes, and change child-protective behaviors. This revolutionary pro- 888.481.7618 gram is for any responsible adult who cares about the welfare If you are satisfi ed, simply keep the product and we’ll charge your credit card $59.90 after 30 days. of children. The three-hour workshop is designed to educate adults on how to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to the reality of child sexual abuse. Workshops take place the second Tuesday of each month, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Community Room at Earth Fare in the Westgate Shopping Center. 1. Based on a Cleveland Clinic Head and Neck Institute Study. Cost is $30 and includes an interactive workbook. Scholarships Statements not endorsed by the FDA. Do not use PureSleep if you have been diagnosed with central sleep apnea. Unless otherwise directed by a doctor, dentist or other health professional, PureSleep should only be used to reduce or eliminate are available. For more information call Kelley at (828) 301- snoring. Must by 18+ to order. Results may vary. Rx only. 4460 and visit www.darkness2light.org.

28 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS youth culture JOSepH RatHBOne ReCOMMendS

his month I will be making Christ- mas recommendations and review- BY JOSEPH RATHBONE, AGE 12 ing Harry Potter 7 Part 1. First, I would like to mention that The emas for the reviewer’s Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage pass, and I recommend Tof the Dawn Treader will hit theaters on you visit this theater. Over 11 Million Victims December 10. Christmas gift of Identity Theft Last Year. Harry potter and the Recommendations deathly Hallows, part 1 The first is the game Source: Javelin Strategy & Research. “2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report.” February 2010. Deathly Hallows is Call of Duty: Black Ops. a very good movie and It is rated M (mature) it also stays very close for blood, violence, and Help Protect Yourself Today. to the book. Of course, language. My second Hollywood has to throw recommendation is an in a few of their touches, iPod touch. They are a ENROLL TODAY AND GET: PROMO CODE: like when everyone was lot of fun and you can 30 DAY RISK-FREE* TRIAL ID disguised as Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) and get a lot of free games for them. My final they flew to the burrow. This part is a little recommendation is an Xbox 360. I know I bit different than the book, but other than am always saying this, but the Xbox 360 has CALL NOW: 1-888-252-5862 that, I’d say, everything else stays really close got a ton of really good games for it. Well I guess that’s all I have to say for this month, *At the end of the 30-day free period your card will be billed automatically ($10.00 with the book. monthly/$110.00 annually) unless you cancel within the 30-day period. You can cancel so, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy anytime without penalty by calling 1-800-LifeLock. Offer is for new LifeLock members only. New Year. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1 is a good film to see your friend, Joseph during the holidays.

I do feel the directors try to make some things happen too fast though, but at least tHe LiOn, tHe WitCH none of the information is left out of the & tHe WaRdROBe movie. Another thing I like about this movie is it ends in a perfect spot and doesn’t leave you with a big huge cliff hanger. Finally, I would like to thank the Beaucatcher Cin-

(L-R) Marla Burkholder, Josh Tyson, Anthony Methvin. Photo: Carol Rosegg

his enchanting musical is based on C.S. Lewis’ adventure about Tfour children who enter the land of Narnia by climbing through a magic wardrobe. The children fulfill an an- cient prophecy by defeating the cold- hearted White Witch, thus restoring sunshine and peace to the spell-bound Narnia and returning the great Lion King Aslan to his throne. iF YOU gO: The Diana Wortham Theatre’s 2010/2011 School Show Series for Young Audiences presents four performances of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe, December 20 and 21. Performances at 10 a.m. and 12 noon each day. Diana Wortham Drawing by 13-year-old Cara Levy. Theatre at Pack Place. For tickets call Cara loves drawing and tries her best to draw anime/manga, a complex the box office, (828) 257-4530. Groups Japanese art form. She is also really of 10 or more contact Rae Geoffrey, into music. Cara wants to be an artist [email protected] or (828) 257- or be in a band when she grows up, but she’s still not sure. She is an 4544 x307. For more information visit 8th grader at Evergreen Community www.dwtheatre.com. Charter School in Asheville.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™ december , 4 & 5 Saturday, december 11 toe River Studio tour drama Club for Youth Holiday Open House and Sale great tree zen temple painteRS Wanted More than 100 studios and galleries in Studio 375 Depot, located at 375 Sessions begin tuesday, Saturday, december 11 Looking for painters to open Burnsville, Spruce Pine, Bakersville december 7 Depot St. in the River Arts District, and Little Switzerland, NC are open will host a holiday sale from 11 a.m. Annual Arts & Crafts Bake Sale, a co-op art gallery in River noon to 4 The Asheville Improv School is to 5 p.m. The Studios present diverse from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Great Tree Arts District or Downtown happy to announce the opening on Friday, works by Dawn Dalto, Les Powell, Zen Temple, 679 Lower Flat Asheville. Send email to: December of a drama club for youth ages Angelique Tassistro, Michael Allen Creek, Alexander, NC. 14-18. The goal is to develop self [email protected] 3, and then Campbell, Brandy Clements, Toni De Sunday, december 12 10 a.m. to confidence while participating Lisa, Laleah Adams, Sheryl Baker, Ada with your website or images 5 p.m. on in improv activities that increase Lea Birnie, Holly de Saillan, Cynthia Buddha’s Enlightenment Celebra- of artwork. Saturday spontaneity and fun. The first Lee, William Churlik, Penny Waters tion, from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Winter and Sunday, session starts on December 7. Clark, and David Lookingbill. Warmth Chai Party and Sale fol- For more details contact Maria lows until 5 p.m. Music, hot chai as part of a Becky Gray, Ceramic Menorah FREE self- Thomas (828) 507-1622 or go to Saturday, december 11 and and cider, sweets and savories. guided tour. An artists’ reception takes www.SEC-Asheville.com. Sunday, december 12 Hosted by Zen Center of Ashe- improv for adults place on Friday, December 3 from 5 to ville, Bahai Center, 5 Ravenscroft, Hand-Made Craft Fair 2nd floor, downtown Asheville. Sessions begin Monday, 8 p.m. at the TRAC Gallery, 269 Oak december 1 Avenue, in Spruce Pine. Visit www. Saturday, december 4 and The Center for Spiritual Living Ashe- Donations of hand-made, hand- toeriverarts.org or call (828) 682-7215 Saturday, december 11 ville is hosting its first Craft Fair at crafted crafts, art welcome. The Asheville Improv School for more details. their 2 Science of Mind Way location www.greattreezentemple.org is continuing with the second Holiday Sale in West Asheville. Everything from session of improv for adults ages Saturday, december 4 and From 10 to 7 p.m. Five local artists, jewelry to photography, painting to 18+. We use different forms of Sunday, december 5 two Saturdays. Featuring pottery, soap, knitting to pottery is included. A thursday, creative drama and movements to sculpture, ornaments, jewelry, cloth- fundraiser, the CSL Craft Fair is open december 16 increase spontaneity and confi- auditions for ing. 415 Haywood Road, behind Har- to artists interested in exhibiting until dence while expressing ourselves the Real inspector Hound vest Records in West Asheville. Phone and Friday, December 10. Free to the general pub- december 17 in a supportive envirnoment. First The Montford Park Players will hold (828) 337-2945 for more details. lic. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday session starts on December 13. auditions for The Real Inspector from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more in- Ballet For details call Maria Thomas Hound, by Tom Stoppard and The Sunday, december 5 formation please visit www.Facebook. Conservatory’s (828) 507-1622 or go to www. Patient, by Agatha Christie, at the Ha- UnC asheville Holiday Concert com/CSLAshevilleCraftFair. the nutcracker SEC-Asheville.com. zel Robinson Amphitheatre, 1 Jersey UNC Asheville’s Music Department Wednesday, december 15 A magical holiday St., in Asheville, from 2:30 p.m. to will offer its popular annual holiday ballet, an af- information (641) 715-3630, access 4:30 p.m. For further questions, email concert at 4 p.m. in the University’s Winter World dance Showcase fordable family [email protected] or call Lipinsky Auditorium. The concert, code 410389#. For details please con- Performances in bellydance, bhangra, treat. Choreographed by Angie Lynn tact us at (828) 338-0042, visit www. (828) 254-5146. which will feature Christmas and Cha- bollywood, hip-hop, Michael Jackson, and Wayne Burritt. Featuring Sarah nukah music performed by the Percus- MysticHeartUniverse.com, or e-mail and more. Top dancers from all over London, Cassie Woods, Miles Sollars- [email protected]. sion Ensemble, String Quartet, Wind Asheville, including Mahsati and Lisa White, Tyler Sandborn, Sarah Foley, How to place an event/ Ensemble, the Studio 18 vocal jazz Zahiya, will take part in the evening Claire Hutchinson and Christopher every tuesday night in december classified listing with ensemble and others, will begin with alongside Lisa Zahiya’s talented adult Lynn. Performances at 5 p.m. and a pre-show performance by the Brass and teenage students. At the historic 7:30 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Kellin Rapid River art Magazine Quintet. The show will conclude with Masonic Lodge, 80 Broadway in down- Tickets only $10/15 at box office (828) Watson at Any “free” event open to the public an audience sing-along. Admission is town Asheville. 253-4530, or visit www.dwtheatre. Mo daddy’s can be listed at no charge up to 30 $5 at the door. For more information com. Further details and information phone (828) 251-6432 or visit www2. Performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Tick- Geniass words. For all other events there is a ets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. available by calling (828) 255-5777 or unca.edu/music/calendar.htm. at BalletConservatoryofAsheville.com. Productions $9.95 charge up to 30 words and 10 Tickets available at www.eventbrite. is proud to cents for each additional word. 160 com/event/1032864325. Visit www. announce a word limit per event. Monday, december 6 or Sunday, december 19 tuesday, december 7 lisazahiya.com for more details. free Tuesday Sponsored listings (shown in images of Christmas night resi- boxes) can be purchased for $12 auditions for Rent Experience the wonder of Christmas dency featur- per column inch. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mainstage. ACT through a festival of carols offered by ing Kellin Deadline is the 19th of each is seeking a diverse cast of wonderful Concerts at St. the First Baptist Church of Asheville Watson. month. Payment must be made singers to audition for the Tony- 90-voice Adult Choir and Symphony Watson’s Photo: John Warner prior to printing. Award winning musical Rent. Script Matthias Church Orchestra. The event begins at 7 p.m. Mo Daddy’s debut will bring out Email Beth Gossett at: check-out, detailed character break- and will be accented by multi-media All concerts are on Sundays and her full band accompanied by some [email protected] downs and more can be found at www. art presented by renowned “Art to begin at 3 p.m. special guests. Watson is a internation- Or mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, ashevilletheatre.org or by calling (828) Heart” ministries. Held in the sanctu- ally-touring singer-songwriter, whose NC 28716. Call (828) 646-0071 to 254-1320. december 5 – Rosewood Trio, ary of First Baptist Church of Ashe- award-winning sound blends elements place ad over the phone. Harp, Flute & Cello. ville, 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC. For of blues, pop, folk, and soul, which she december 7 - January 11 more information, please visit www. december 12 – Reynolds-Miller refers to as “folk indie soul pop.” – Disclaimer – Yoga for Healthy Backs fbca.net or call (828) 252-4781. Due to the overwhelming number of Chorale Christmas Concert with Free show starts at 9 p.m. Must be local event submissions we get for our One Center Yoga will host a 6-week organ, string quartet and trumpet. tuesday, december 21 21+. Mo Daddy’s Music Club, 77 series with Ann Mundy. The series “What to Do Guide” each month, we december 19 – Donna Robertson Oneness through Your Biltmore Avenue in Asheville, NC. can no longer accept entries that do not starts Tuesday December 7, 2010 and playing her own arrangements of Phone (828) 258-1550 or visit www. specifically follow our publication’s runs through Tuesday January 11, Christmas Carols on piano. Mystic Heart MoDaddysBar.com. For more infor- format. Non-paid event listings must 2011 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Cost: Free Teleconference Meditation from mation or to stream music please visit be 30 words or less and both paid and $60 for the six-week series. One Cen- There will be a free-will offering 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. EST. Teleconference www.KellinWatson.com. non-paid listings must provide infor- ter Yoga is located at 120 Coxe Avenue, for the St. Matthias restoration mation in the following format: date, Suite 3A, in downtown Asheville. To fund. The church is located in time, brief description of what your register call Sarah Brownlee at 225- Asheville just off South Charlotte event is and any contact information. 1904 or e-mail sarah@onecenteryoga. Street at Max Street on the hill www.euroContempart.net Any entries not following this format com. You can also register online at across from the Asheville Public will not be considered for publication. www.onecenteryoga.com. Works Building (1 Dundee St.). Original 19th and 20th century European paintings.

DECEMBER EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS

0 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE what to do guide ™

Cotton Mill Studios it’s a Small, Small Work 2010 Special Holiday Restorative Yoga Holiday Open House The Haywood Just in time for holiday shopping, the show pro- and Yoga nidra for Charity County Arts vides a unique opportunity to purchase original december 7, 14, and 21 Council’s Gallery art at very modest prices. Most artwork is priced thursday, december 9 & 16 From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. visit the 86 is pleased to between $20 and $80. No work is priced over One Center Yoga will host three Restorative Yoga newly renovated upstairs exhibit present its third $300. Artwork is sold off the wall in a “pay and and Yoga Nidra classes from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with space, Mill Gallery, featuring Batter Bowl by Gloria Stockton annual small walk away” style. Kaoverii Weber. Enjoy gentle, restorative yoga poses, aromatherapy acupressure and self-massage, and stained glass by artist Ed Baur, works show. The On display through Friday, December 31, 2010. new to the Cotton Mill. Also show challenges artists to create works smaller yoga nidra – a long, guided relaxation practiced while Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday resting in savasana. Perfect for relieving holiday on display are works by resident than 12 inches, and, includes a variety of medi- through Saturday. Haywood County Arts Coun- artists Christine Daugherty, John ums: painting, printmaking, drawing, ceramics, stress! Take time to slow down, relax and appreciate cil’s Gallery 86 is located at 86 North Main Street, the beauty of the season. Registration is required. Mac Kah, Genie Maples, and mixed media, collage, fiber, sculpture, gouache, Waynesville, NC. FREE and open to the public. Skip Rohde in a variety of media woodworking, metal, jewelry, and photography. You may also bring a non-perishable food item. from etchings to encaustic, tradi- Everyone is welcome, even those with no prior yoga tional and contemporary oils. experience. Bring your family and friends! Downstairs studios offer func- By donation ($5-25 suggested per class). Proceeds tional pottery from Marty and Best in Show by Phil Juliano benefit Manna Food Bank. To register call Sarah Eileen Black, hand-dyed wear- Brownlee at 225-1904 or e-mail sarah@onecen- ables and home furnishings from teryoga.com. You can also register online at www. Barbara Zaretsky, and mixed onecenteryoga.com. media whimsey from Margaret Couch Cogswell. Find out more One Center Yoga at www.riverartsdistrict.com/cot- 120 Coxe avenue, Suite a, downtown asheville ton-mill-studios. Mill gallery, Cotton Mill Studios 122 Riverside drive, asheville, nC UnC asheville events January 20 - May 5, 2011 Spring Kindermusik Classes december -16 – “Figurative Reflections,” exhibit of Callie & Cats by Amy Downs 100 wood-fired ceramic pots crafted to enhance the For children ages 1 to 7. Help develop suggestion of the human figure within their forms, lasting learning skills. We’ll show by UNC Asheville student Katie Scully: UNC you how music can help your little Asheville Highsmith University Union Gallery, 1st one manage the day’s schedule and floor, free. For more details call (828) 251-6991. build a strong body and mind. Classes take place at The Music Village in Sunday, december 5 – Holiday Concert. Holiday Waynesville, NC. Enroll online today. music performed by the Studio 18 Vocal Jazz En- Visit www.themusicvillage-nc.com for semble, Percussion Ensemble and Wind Ensemble. more information. Pre-show performance by the Brass Quintet. 4 p.m., UNC Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium, $5. For more details call (828) 251-6432. Odyssey Center for Monday, december 6 – Humanities lecture: “Where have we been? Where are we? Where are we go- Ceramic arts discount ing?: The Ebb and Flow of Empires,” Lecturer Ann Holiday pottery Sale Dunn, 11:25 a.m., Lipinsky Auditorium, UNC Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Asheville, free. For more details call (828) 251-6808. Friday, december 10 and Monday, december 6 – Reuter Center Singers Holi- Saturday, december 11 day Concert. A concert of holiday music with the Get in the holiday spirit and share Reuter Center Singers, acclaimed community choral a hand made gift with someone group led by Chuck Taft. 7 p.m., UNC Asheville’s you love! Our resident artists will Reuter Center, Manheimer Room, free. For more host a discount holiday pottery details call (828) 251-6140. sale on Friday from 12 a.m. to 6 tuesday, december 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. – Meet the Maker: Conversa- to 6 p.m. There will be a variety tions of Meaning with Craftspeople. Fred Horowitz, of functional pottery and whimsi- author of “Josef Albers: To Open Eyes.” 12:30 p.m., cal sculptural pottery available. UNC Asheville’s Owen Hall, room 237, free. For more details call (828) 250-2392. Our dedicated resident artists tuesday, december 7 – Meet the Maker: Conversa- will use all proceeds to assist Dragin by Michael Cole them in attending the National tions of Meaning with Craftspeople. Fred Horowitz, Council on Education for the author of “Josef Albers: To Open Eyes.” 12:30 p.m., Ceramic Arts conference, held in UNC Asheville’s Owen Hall, room 237, free. For St. Petersburg, FL in March 2011. more details call (828) 250-2392. If you would like to make a dona- tuesday, december 7 – World Affairs Program: tion in support of our residents “Israeli-Palestinian Standoff,” Ori Nir of Americans please call (828) 285-0210. for Peace Now. 7:30 p.m., UNC Asheville Reuter Center, Manheimer Room, $8 public; students free. the Odyssey Center for Ceramic For more details call (828) 251-6140. arts, 26 Clingman avenue in the River arts district www2.unca.edu

CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 1 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE joe’s brew notes Tis the Season… for Holiday Brews If your dinner Brewing special beer during the winter season is a plans are muddy but tradition that has its roots in the mythology of ancient your dessert plans are Greece (Halcyon Days), and Rome (Saturnalia), and the clear, take a trip to the Wedge Brew- ery for the Russian Imperial Stout. pagan religions of Scandinavia, Germany and Britain. This pitch-black, richly flavored, full-bodied beer made with raspber- ries, has notes of chocolate and coffee hese brews were enjoyed during and finishes clean (~8.5%). It’s the their celebration of the Winter Sol- BY JOE ZINICH beer equivalent of a raspberry filled stice. Later, when monasteries often chocolate truffle. While you’re there functioned as the local brewery, Brewing Dubbelicious, a Belgian Style try the Third Rail Barley Wine. Deep many monks made the first holiday “Double” Ale that has a copper color amber in color, this full-bodied beer Tbeers to celebrate the birth of Christ. and a “sweet tart” flavor with warm has a sweet, brandy-like start with dis- European brewers brought this rich herbal undertones (6.5%); enjoy alone tinct hop bitterness at the end (10%). heritage of holiday brewing to the United or with holiday foods, especially des- Dry hopping adds a floral aroma that States. The tradition ended with prohibi- serts. While you’re there, ask about encourages sipping while dinner plans tion, but restarted when Anchor Brewing availability from their Brewers Reserve are discussed. Company brewed their first Christmas beer Series. I’ve had a Dopple Bock and While you’re out, head over to the “Our Special Ale” in 1975. With Anchor’s Belgian Red that were exceptional. thirsty Monk to sample the Belgian success and the growth of the craft brew Visit the French Broad Brewery version of Belgian Holiday beers. I industry, there are now hundreds of holiday for their Belgian Scotch Ale, Wee suggest you try Delirium Noel, St beers available. Heavy-est. It is a rich dark-amber Bernardus Christmas, Gouden Caro- Holiday beers can be grouped into beer brewed with Belgian yeast with lus Noel, Petrus Winter Ale, Gulden three broad classifications, strong ales (bar- spicey fruity notes and special French draak Vintage, and N’ice Chouffe. All ley wines, imperial stouts, Belgian triples), produced hops that add a suggestion of that tasting could make you hungry amber lagers (Bocks and Double Bocks), cloves and sage (~9%); can be cellared. Julie and Jason Atallah, of Brusin’ Ales, with some so be sure to sample their “farm to and spiced ales (Belgian Noels, Christmas Also available is the Belgian brown seriously good holiday beers. table” food menu while you’re there. Beer). These brews are designed to fill your ale, Battle Ship Brown. This medium If you leave without going upstairs to the belly, warm your bones, and complement bodied, dark amber beer is slightly sweet up seasonal that is easy to enjoy with or without pint House, you would miss Avery Old the special holiday foods you enjoy. front with a clean finish; a tasty seasonal ses- traditional holiday food. It is malty in body, Jubilation, Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale, To help with your holiday beer selec- sion beer (~5.5%) lightly hopped with a variety of spices that Smuttynose Winter Ale, New Holland tion, let’s take a look at what is being offered green Man Brewing brings a richly fla- vary from year to year. Vanilla and cinna- Cabin Fever, Bell’s Christmas. Hmm, that in and around town. vored imperial stout to the party. The beer mon are the base spices and most noticeable could make for a long evening, so maybe Enjoy a white Christmas (even if it is jet-black with a medium body and a dry on the palate. Inspired by Anchor Steam’s make two trips. doesn’t snow) with asheville Brewing finish, (~9.5%). The malts used add notes Christmas Ale, Cold Mountain (originally If you’re looking for one stop shop- Company’s Christmas Jam White Ale. A of coffee and chocolate — delicious. It’s not Highland Holiday Ale) has been an Ashe- ping for the beer lover in your life, stop by crisp wheat beer brewed in the Belgian a session beer, but you’ll wish it were. Be ville tradition since the late 1990’s. Brusin’ ales. The store is packed with more tradition and spiced with orange peel and sure to ask if they have the cask version. The than 800 beers from breweries around the coriander. This is the officially licensed beer beer is conditioned in a rum barrel cask that world as well as beer related merchandise of the Warren Haynes Christmas Jam with adds some very special flavors. Monasteries often functioned and books. The staff can help you find just proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity. For me, the holiday beer season official- as the local brewery, making what you need to liven a party or surprise Enjoy a delicious beer and support a great ly starts in early November when Highland a connoisseur. They carry all the avail- cause. Talk about a win-win. Brewing releases Cold Mountain Winter Ale holiday beers to celebrate able local standard and seasonal beers and Back by popular demand is Craggie (~5.5%). Cold Mountain is a spiced winter the birth of Christ. some wonderful holiday beers that include Old Hickory Christmas Ale – spiced ale, In mid December, pisgah Brewing Ridgeway Pickled Santa – spiced ale, Jolly releases Baptista, a Belgian Noël (Christ- Pumpkin Noel de Calabaza – rich ale, An- mas) style beer that takes its name from chor “Our Special Ale” – unique dark ale, Jan Baptista van Helmont (1579-1644), the Scaldi’s Prestige de Nuits – Belgian strong Flemish chemist and physician who first dark ale, Ridgeway Criminally Bad Elf – Belgian Triple style, Ridgeway Lump of discovered CO2 and coined the word “gas”. The beer is medium body, has a cloudy Coal – stout. Now that’s a selection. dark yellow color, and is spiced with white Are you still there? Don’t you have pepper and coriander (~11%). Made with some shopping to do? Remember though, Pisgah produced candy sugar, it is a true it’s thirsty work. You may want to take this tribute to the style. article along. In the following weeks and months, Pisgah plans to have Valdez (a coffee stout), their Pilsner, Bock, Helles and Schwarz beer on tap, as well as Vortex l (a hop monster) For eight years, Joe zinich and Vortex ll (an imperial stout) available for has been taking a self- your drinking pleasure until they run out. guided, high-intensity tour Stout month starts on “Stout Hog’s Day” of the asheville beer scene. February 2. Enjoy Pisgah and a variety of Contact him at: jzinich@ guest stouts all month long. bellsouth.net.

2 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE restaurants & wine Better Communication for Better Service - and a HiStORY LeSSOn FOR YOUR taBLe taLK

verheard at the professionally words, and those customers must be open to BY MICHAEL PARKER staffed Rankin Vault, a would-be alternatives. Good communication skills are Special event with the Biltmore wine customer wandered into his the key to satisfying wine drinking. I wonder, too, what would he think Winery and the Weinhaus own dimly-lit wine memory to of the modern world’s obsession with the ask for the wine he desired, “It’s History Lesson Revisited global trade in bottled water? Perhaps he Friday, december  Oa Rioja, from South America, I think.” The Typical of holiday gatherings and din- The Biltmore Winery and the Weinhaus would agree that evolution is quite behind matter was smoothly handled, and a wine ner tables, people remember the quote cred- in providing us with a third hand: one for will be hosting a 6-course dinner and matching his desired style was served. ited to Benjamin Franklin, “Beer is proof water, one for coffee, and the third for wine. wine tour at 6:30 p.m. The price is all At The Flying Frog Café, the fine that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” It is my personal formula for mens sana in inclusive at $55 per person. Please call dining room downstairs, a Sunday night Did you ever consider that perhaps he really corpore sano — a sound mind in a sound the Weinhaus for reservations. customer wanted a glass of “Riesling,” and didn’t write that? He may very well have body. I think the scientist in him would the Weinhaus, 86 patton avenue the server had to ask, in the right way, if spoken it in conversation, but there exists no click “like” on the comment as well. asheville, nC (828) 254-645 a sweeter style of German Riesling was such writing about beer in Franklin’s hand. On that Latin phrase, an early 20th desired. Self-conscious wine drinkers are However, in a 1779 letter to a French century American journalist had his own common, and some are really touchy about friend named André Morellet, Franklin did opinion. A. J. Liebling, keeping extensive the word “sweet” and infer unnecessarily. write, “Behold the rain which descends from notes in the 1920’s of his indulgences in Classicopia “By the glass, we have dry Rieslings from heaven upon our vineyards; there it enters Paris, believed the concept of a sound mind Alsace and Australia, the German Riesling the roots of the vines, to be changed into in a sound body was a contradiction in Sunday, december 5 sold out. Which style do you prefer?” The wine; a constant proof that God loves us, terms. “No sane man can afford to dispense Beginning at 4 p.m. customer wanted German, so a lightly and loves to see us happy.” with debilitating pleasures.” Anyone who Classicopia will perform sweet Vouvray was suggested, to the satis- Somewhere in this exchange of letters, practices extreme self-denial should have “The Romantic Cello” faction of the diner. Morellet quilled a drinking song that sug- his sanity questioned, he insisted, and he featuring cellist Kenneth Daniel Weiser In the early to mid-1990’s, we who gested the American Revolution was really stressed the fact that Hitler ordered water at Law with Daniel Weiser were in the restaurant and wine business about Franklin’s preference for French wine the beer hall. on piano. The concert occasionally faced wine words left over from over English ale. Here is an equally irrever- This holiday season, whatever your will take place at the old wine fads. In fine dining situations, ent drinking song by Franklin: budget, remember the importance in eat- private home of Scott we had to learn to recognize those words, ing, drinking, and Joanna Best in the correctly discern the contexts in which they and being merry Grove Park area, and T’was honest old Noah first planted the Vine, were used, and diplomatically steer the cus- with friends and will include works by And mended his Morals by drinking its Wine; tomer in an updated direction. strangers. Try Schumann and Chopin, And justly the drinking of water decry’d as well as a powerful White Zinfandel was far more frequent- to listen more Kenneth Law For he knew that all Mankind, by drinking it dy’d. Sonata by Brahms. ly ordered at that time as well. If sold out, than you speak, From this Piece of history plainly we find or if the server was sick-and-tired of this do your best to Seating for the event will be limited and That Water’s good neither for Body nor Mind; category of wine drinker, simple knowledge know what you by reservation only. The cost is $40 per That Virtue and Safety in Wine-bibbing’s found of the alternatives would both get the sale are talking about, person and includes food by Tastefully While all that drink Water deserve to be drown’d. for the restaurant and open a new door for and remember Simple and wine by The Wine Studio. the customer. Alternatives included Ger- that as a party Reservations can be made by contacting man Riesling and Vouvray, the white wines Wow – was Franklin channeling Bac- host or as a paid server, that tact is a nice Dr. Weiser at (802) 369-0856. For more a welcome departure from cheap rosé, and chus? It sure reads that way, but it would thing to share. information visit www.classicopia.org. a whole new world of wine opened for the be, considering the era he lived in and the suddenly not-so-novice wine drinker. wisdom he wrote, a mistake to interpret this as In the early 90’s, we would often hear a Franklin advocating excess. (There’s no doubt, What would Benjamin Franklin think of the modern world’s request for a Chablis or a Burgundy. Servers though, that we, if we memorized it and re- who wanted to show off and be smug were cited it today, would be doing anything but.) obsession with the global trade in bottled water? likely to steer the customer to that section of the wine list, with wines from those appella- tions starting at $40 per bottle and increasing ever skyward. They knew what those cus- tomers really wanted, a light style of white (Chablis) or a smooth red (Burgundy). We Great values & styles were dealing with the remnants of American bulk wine marketing. Duty actually called us FREE Wine Tastings on Saturdays to be diplomatic. from 2 to 5 p.m. Is Rioja the new Burgundy? Tasting wine is not only fun, but it presents a chance to learn about wine and what it is about a particular wine that you like, or don't like. You can sip while you shop. Find some new favorites — try Today, these words are as good as gone, but the Rioja question at The Vault it before you buy it. We will usually have a few whites and a few made me wonder what wine words were reds open, with the occassional guest speaker. Please stop by! becoming general purpose words. Is Rioja www.theashevilleWineguy.com the new Burgundy? Servers and sellers need to really listen Wine Retail ~ Tastings ~ Wine Classes 555 Merrimon ave. to their customers for generalized wine Great wines for any occasion and budget. (828) 254-6500

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010  RAPID RIVER ARTS music A Bit of Pennsylvania at the LAB

nly half jokingly called “the poet BY JAMES CASSARA of Pennsylvania,” songwriter Adam pop, defies his youth Taylor continues with his timeless Ohis upcoming tour with confidence and ren- special guest Granville Au- egade attitude. His tomatic featuring American debut EP, Play the Idol finalist Vanessa Oliva- Piano Drunk, was rez at the Lexington Avenue produced by Adam’s Brewery. older brother and A native of Lancaster, mentor, LIVE Taylor was personally asked founding member by Granville Automatic to Chad Taylor. join them for five dates this Unlike his December on their upcom- brother, the younger ing tour. Taylor brings a more Taylor and Granville wry and literate ap- Songwriter Adam Taylor Automatic, a duo whose proach to his music, combined musical history influenced by his includes a finalist from American Idol, a top idols Charles Bukowski and Saul William. pop single in Canada, and songs that have Listeners will discover Taylor’s breath of appeared on popular TV programs (includ- influences, such diverse voices as Donovan, ing Rescue Me, Jersey Shore, and CNN), Dr. Dre, Wilco, and Tom Waits. have teamed up with the express goal of Granville Automatic is Vanessa Oli- meshing their varying musical backgrounds varez and Elizabeth Elkins. The duo write into quiet and lyrical story songs pulled from a something shared love of history, storms, horses and new and heartache. After writing together first in the exciting. spring of 2009, the pair spent the last year They are a composing nearly 60 songs. contempo- A sonic combination of Gillian Welch, rary travel- Ryan Adams, Emmylou Harris and the ing band Cowboy Junkies, Granville Automatic’s of poetic, debut record is expected in early 2011. American Idol finalist folk-in- Vanessa Olivarez fused art- ists bringing modern Americana to the main iF Adam Taylor with Granville stage. Their Asheville show caps off a busy YOU Automatic. Featuring period of touring, including swings through American Idol finalist Vanessa Raleigh and Atlanta. gO Olivarez. At the Lexington Taylor, whose old school soul can be Avenue Brewery, 39 Lexington felt through his visually quirky, socially Avenue, Thursday, December 9 at 10 conscious lyrics – at times reminiscent of an p.m. For more information go to www. early Bob Dylan – and ragtime inspired folk- adamtaylormusic.com

Bring in this Ad and We’ll Take 15% Off Your Order Excluding Alcohol 1 Coupon Per Table (828) 236-9800 Delicious Open 7 Days a Week Hoagies & Pretzels Fresh-Baked Calzones 50 Broadway ~ Asheville, NC Specialty Pizzas • Spring Water Dough • Salads Wireless Vegan Soy Cheese, and other Vegetarian Options! Internet Access!

4 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE noteworthy The Great Art of Laurel Tewes Laurel Tewes is ive mural artist Laurel Tewes any BY DENNIS RAY diligent about detail and bare wall, and she can trans- form it into a scene of an old will work until the image time country produce market, on canvas,” she says. “They must look she is after is perfect. a child’s fantasy filled with joy good close up as well as far away.” andG wonderment or a scene of a summer’s She can do commissions for din- morning in the great outdoors. ing rooms, bathrooms, living rooms Many people like to express their or, as is often the case, children’s individuality by commissioning an artist bedrooms. A child’s room can be to paint a mural in their home; this is not transformed into the ‘fantasy world’ an activity exclusively for owners of large of a magical forest or any fairytale, houses. A simple mural can be added to encouraging imaginative play and an the smallest of walls. awareness of art. Mural by artist Laurel Tewes Tewes, who has painted murals profes- Tewes understands creating a image she is after is perfect. “I give people sionally for private homes and businesses mural for one’s home isn’t something to more than what they pay for, being a perfec- for all of her adult life says murals help take lightly. She will spend hours talk- tionist,” she says. transform a house into a home. She also ing with her clients, looking around their Her portfolio is filled with many adds that towns and cities attract more homes while trying to better understand wonderful murals of scenes that seem to people towards their downtowns with mu- their personal taste. She then incorporates come from a museum or out of a tabletop rals. She paints murals for public libraries, their style into the original sketches, and art book. Tewes says she draws her inspira- hospitals and other public organizations. if the home has interesting architectural tion for her murals from her travels and the Occasionally, she donates her time. elements, she’ll include those elements as artwork from the masters. “The Asheville area is very supportive well. “Buying a mural requires a lot more “I’ve always wanted to draw since I was of the arts and that is one of the reasons I commitment from the buyer than, say, a little girl,” she says. “Through the years I chose to move here” says Tewes, who now buying a painting that hangs on your wall. just kept at it, always challenging myself.” lives and works in Canton, 13 miles west of If you don’t like a painting you can always For Tewes, the mural becomes more Asheville off of Intestate 40. “I love living in move it to a different room.” She pauses for than just paint on a wall; it becomes a piece and being a part of this community.” a moment then adds, “That’s why I spend of her. “I get emotionally involved,” she She loves painting murals because she a lot of time working with a client before I says. “I really love what I do.” loves working on a grand scale and work- ever touch a paint brush.” Her prices begin at $400. For more ing with the limitations of a room and Once the client has decided on the information or to inquire about a free mural transforming that room to another place. look and style Tewes will set to work. She is consultation please call (413) 528-0064 “Murals are double the difficulty of painting diligent about detail and will work until the A Mini Golf Course in My Backyard? hat an interesting concept!” is Justin says the favorite is a hole called INTERVIEW WITH JUSTIN KAISER what Justin Kaiser owner of the Parking Deck. It has a ramp leading up Sweet Tee Mini Golf hears to a box, where the ball falls through then the most. In the spring of goes down five flights into a hole in one. popped into my head: Why don’t we just 2010 local owners Justin and You can check out pictures of every hole as build a 9-hole course and travel with it? I JolieW Kaiser of Asheville set out with a well as some past events they have done on jumped up and started six hours of research mission: to build a high quality mini golf their website. on portable courses. Most of the ones I course to rent out. The Portable 9-Hole Mini Golf is no stranger to the Kaisers. found were low quality. I said that if we course is filled with fun obstacles, and it Justin proposed to his wife Jolie on the 17th were to build one it would be high quality. even has two sand trap holes! hole of Tropical Gardens Mini Golf on RR: Do you think you achieved that goal? Patton Avenue. Whenever they JK: are on vacation they seek out Yes. I enlisted the help of my two friends courses to play, a friendly com- Estes Shell and Brian Ross, one a carpenter, petition then ensues. I sat down and the other an engineer. With my love of with Justin and asked him a few mini golf and their skill set, we designed and questions about his new small built a fun high quality course. business venture. RR: Where are places that you take the Rapid River: When did you course? come up with this crazy idea? JK: Well we have been a business for three Justin Kaiser: Well, my wife months. So far we have set up at LEAF and I were planning on opening (Lake Eden Arts Festival), LAAFF (Lex- up an indoor 18-hole course. ington Avenue Arts Fun Festival), as well I kept trying to rack my brain as the Blue Ridge Pride Festival. We also about how to keep us out of have done a couple of Fall Festivals at West the red during the spring and Asheville Baptist Church and Haw Creek summer, Asheville being such Elementary. Birthday Parties of course, as well as a few fundraisers. Justin and Jolie Kaiser, owners of Sweet Tee Mini Golf an outdoorsy town. This idea ‘Mini-Golf Course’ continued on page 38

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 5

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE fine art

A Candid Talk with Goldsmith Jim Charneski BY DENNIS RAY

im Charneski designs handmade gem- JC: I call myself a For the holidays – copper stone jewelry and fine metalwork from metal smith or a his studio outside of Bakersville, NC, goldsmith and let Christmas ornaments in the an hour north of Asheville. His work others decide if I am form of oak, maple, chestnut, ranges from clean, elegant custom an artist. and poplar leaves. J design jewelry to a line of silver and RR: From what do copper leaves inspired by the Appalachians. you draw your inspiration? RR: What is your average Rapid River: When did you become an art- JC: Oh, all kinds of things: old tools, archi- day like? ist, and what was your main interest at first? tecture, nature, seeing how other people JC: It changes from day to Jim Charneski: I have always had an interest have made things in the past, taking things day. As a one-man studio I in metals. My father was a metallurgist for apart or fixing things. You never know what wish I could spend all my North American Rockwell you will see or do that might time just making things. But Above: Copper oak leaf ornament. (they built fighter jets and air- give you a spark to try some- the truth is half my time is To the right: Australian opal pendant. planes). And my grandfather thing new or go in a new taken up with the business Both created by Jim Charneski was a welder in a foundry that direction. end: bookkeeping, shipping, made castings for the Enter- RR: What is the creation ordering supplies, shop upkeep. As all self- cryptozoology (look- prise, one of the first nuclear process from idea to the employed artists today, we are the last group ing for big foot). It’s subs. They also made castings final object? who designs, then builds, then markets, and hard to say where I for the Mercury and Apollo sells from start to finish. would have ended up. space programs. So there was JC: It seems to change from a lot of talk about metals and one project to the next. RR: You are an accomplished blacksmith as RR: What is your trips to the scrap yards and Sometimes it’s very fast. well as a goldsmith, which isn’t a very com- favorite experience as an artist? such growing up. Other times I work on a part mon combination. What drew you to both JC: There are so many. Seeing a look on a I was lucky to go to a for days, weeks or longer, fields? Do you find yourself focusing with clients face when they see a finished piece high school that at the time and then let it sit and think one more than the other? for the first time. Having a piece in the had a vary large art depart- about it or look at it until I JC: I like them both. After working on very White House collection was a big one. A ment. I was able to start tak- have the problems worked small gold or silver pieces it is nice to go collaboration with Mel Chen a couple of ing classes and working with Rutillated quartz and out, or until I get the look I work on a big hunk of some other metal. years back was so much fun. metal then ended up at Pen- diamond pendant created am happy with. Once you have the basic understanding of RR: What would you advise the land school of crafts for an by Jim Charneski RR: Do you have a favorite the metal, be it gold, steel, copper, silver or beginning artist? eight week class and ended up staying over artist? Maybe somebody that inspired, or pewter, the tools to work with them are not four years. Then I worked for and trained influenced you? as big a jump as you might think. JC: If it makes you happy then stick with in custom jewelry stores until I opened a it. There is always more than one way to JC: I am a big fan of Rene Lalique’s jewelry. RR: If you were not an artist what would studio of my own. skin a cat. Art Nouveau and art deco styles. And my you be? RR: Are you working on anything special for RR: Do you prefer to be referred to as a wife and artist friends have been a big influ- JC: I have an interest in archaeology and goldsmith or an artist? ence on me as well. the holidays? JC: Copper Christmas ornaments in the form of oak, maple, chestnut, poplar, and other trees of western North Carolina, and Quilt Show on Display in ACT took the opportunity to explore interests that of course jewelry. My work can be seen had been long deferred. Lesley wishes to at Van Dyke Gallery, Southern Highland Lobby through December thanks the continuing education program at Craft Guild, Folk Art Center and on www. AB Tech and teacher Sara Hill for introduc- charneskimetals.com. re you looking for the perfect way ing her to the art and craft of quilting. BY JANNA HOEKEMA to warm your neck and accent your The artist is excited to be sharing not For more information call (828) 281- outfit this holiday? Consider one only wall quilts but quite a few quilted crafting a quilt or scarf that others will find scarves available for purchase in our lobby 4044, write to [email protected] of Lesley Cohen’s quilted scarves or visit www.vandykejewelry.com. which will be on display in the ACT both useful and attractive, especially if it during the performances of A Christmas Alobby in December. involves mixing and matching colors. Story and Santaland Diaries. The show, Functional and Decora- Lesley Cohen came to Asheville with She says, “Quilting serves my long- tive Quilts, will feature personal quilts and her parents, brothers and sister forty years standing desire to be creative, not just van dyke Jewelry imitative. It is a way to produce useful items quilt scarves that are meant to speak to the ago by way of New York, New Jersey and and Fine Craft individual. Whether hung on a wall, placed Georgia. After receiving a bachelor’s degree that are also attractive and one-of-a-kind. over a sleeping child or draped around the in philosophy from UNC-Asheville, she My current pieces — personal quilts and 29 Biltmore ave. neck, each piece put her non- quilt scarves — are designed to be special to downtown asheville will speak to career-path someone as individual statements of color education to and pattern.” Regular Business Hours: an individual’s tuesday - thursday 10-6 p.m. taste. Cohen use, first at Pack Library, Friday 10-5:0 p.m. strongly believes Saturday 10-2 p.m. that everyone and then for iF Functional and Decorative has a desire or a thirty years in Quilts by lcohendesigns on Holiday Business Hours: need to be cre- a local retail YOU display in ACT’s main lobby, thanksgiving to Christmas ative. She loves music store. gO December 1-22, 2010. More Monday 10-4 p.m. creating order When that job information available by tuesday - Friday 10-6 p.m. Functional and Decorative Quilts by Saturday 10-4 p.m. out of chaos in Lesley Cohen Designs ended, she calling (828) 254-1320.

6 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color RAPID RIVER ARTS Make that Christmas Gift Classic & Stylish fine art Wooden Watches Diary of an Artistic Shut-In, Part Deux gRatitUde aBOUt COMMUnitY and tHe individUaLS WitHin it

elcome to the “Bright Season,” where everything’s shiny. It’s BY GREG VINEYARD a time for reflection and… unavoidable commercialism. At “How does this relate to art?” you may times, startlingly loud “Help- be asking at this point. (Me, too!) It’s really WI’m-Trapped-In-The-Mall!” consumerism. a pondering about artistic individuality, Which reminds me of one of the reasons prompted by my musings upon community. I’m so glad to live Our unique person- in Western North alities, experiences Carolina: ART! and histories play a Select From More Than 40 Styles I can avoid the big role in how we chaos and buy local, present as artists. handmade art, craft My avoidance of too and design. And much interaction help a local artisan with actual humans or business by doing has given rise to so. I’m not saying communication and national chains are psychological con- bad. They are part cepts in my art. of our complex Curious about economic infra- the ways people structure. But I’m interact and react, all for the easier I delve below the parking, less crowds surface a bit. What and more one-on- makes people attach one service one to certain emotions, Hypo-Allergenic, Light Weight and So Comfortable to Wear. finds in a working Asheville montage by Greg Vineyard symbols and words? artist’s studio down Every artist has Our Wooden Watches Come With a 2 Year Warranty. by the river, at a local shop downtown, or reasons, both conscious and subconscious, in Biltmore Village – and in any town that for doing what they do. And it’s nice that so ends in “ville”, for that matter. many of them are socially conscious, too. There’s even a MOVEMENT. The Are you curious about why you create Asheville Grown Business Alliance (ashevil- what you do? Paying attention to feelings legrown.com) promotes local businesses and reactions, as well as logging activities with its Love Asheville campaign. With Hip and events can reveal creativity patterns. Replacements downtown as its home-base, When amidst a highly creative moment or the latest campaign involves wearing the period, I try to learn what prompted the specially designed “buy local” tee-shirts on opening of my mind to all the possibilities in my art while shutting down some of that miserly inner opposition. I’m all for the easier parking, I know that recently I’m very inspired & Classic less crowds, and one-on-one by the “buy local” campaign. I feel like service one finds in a working someone’s got my back. I can also be lifted artist’s studio. by a Goldilocks Day. (No, I’m not talking about my outfit! I’m referring to “just right” Wooden Belts Saturdays. I’m proud to live somewhere weather.) And I’m very often inspired by all where the sense of entrepreneurial spirit of you. prompts locals to look out for locals – and in Here’s wishing all the individuals Order Now by Calling 704-567-9770 a kind, fun, visually appealing way. — and the expressive, cohesive community At this time of year, gratitude is also in made up of all the individuals — a great or visit www.Wooden-Watch.com order. Not just for a good business day, or season full of immersion in local, inspired how great we make Asheville for our visi- talent. I’m grateful, and in awe. tors, but also for my opportunity to contrib- [email protected] ute to this magazine. My writer’s persona 1-2 Day Shipping from Charlotte, NC of “Sci-fi Loving Shut-In” and tendency toward self-deprecating humor has gotten greg vineyard is an artist some good feedback. (I heartily thank both and creative consultant Classic Wooden Watches introduces our newest retailer of you.) But not to worry! in asheville’s River arts Even though I can be pretty happy writ- district. He and his Ceramics ing and creating art in front of a fifth viewing for Contemplation & IgZVhjgZhIg^k^V of 2009’s Star Trek (OK, tenth), I actually Connectivity can be found at DO get out and about! I know I can’t spend Constance Williams gallery, 112 Cherry Street, Suite A every day watching the latest made-for-tele- (the middle building in CURve), 9 Riverside vision film about sudden-onset asteroids or drive in asheville. Open every day 11 a.m. aliens who see Earth as a lunch buffet. to 4 p.m. visit www.CURvestudiosnC.com. Black Mountain, NC 828-669-5190 [email protected]

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 7

prints color Mouthwatering Gifts RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE Dipped Berries holiday family fun SATISFACTION from GUARANTEED! $ 99 19+S&H HAND-DIPPED SWEETS AND MORE! BaLLet COnSeRvatORY OF aSHeviLLe • Dipped Strawberries • Caramel Apples • Dipped Cherries A New Studio’s Magical Nutcracker! • Mini Cheesecakes • Dipped Cookies ollowing last year’s sold-out studio,” Lynn shared, • Sugar-Free Sweets Nutcracker premiere, Ballet referring to Ballet BY CHRISTOPHER LYNN Conservatory choreographers Conservatory’s grow- Angie Lynn and Wayne Bur- ing artistic resources, enchanting Dew Drop ritt are eagerly crafting their number of stu- fairy. Sollars-White, Fmagical production anew. This year’s dents, stylish new 5 Woods and London all SAVE 20% ON DIPPED BERRIES* Nutcracker, presented by the Ballet Points Studios, “and danced principal roles Conservatory of Asheville, December especially the qual- in the Conservatory’s Offer only available at www.sharisberries.com/big 16-17 at the Diana Wortham Theatre, ity of our dedicated much-praised Spring or by calling 1-888-743-1347 has evolved. dancers.” In Octo- 2010 ballet, Giselle. 20% off discount will appear upon checkout. Discounts may not be used in conjunction with other special of- “We’re enhancing the produc- ber, Asheville Area Since opening fers, coupons or discounts. Discount applies to item cost only and does not include discounts on shipping and handling or taxes. Discount only applies to items over $29. Valid now through 12/31/2011. Subject to Rules of Use. tion to reflect our rapidly expanding Chamber of Com- last fall, Lynn’s new Coupons VOID if purchased, sold or bartered for cash. merce honored the Ballet Conservatory Ballet Conservatory emerged as a place to as a “Rising Star” at seriously study dance vOLUnteeR dURing its annual “Sky High and to experience tHe HOLidaY SeaSOn Growth Awards.” Claire Hutchinson as Clara. nurturing and inspir- This year’s artis- ing training from PSYCHIC SSOUOURCE Make volunteering part of your tic updates to The Nutcracker include professional faculty. Their newly Most respected Psychic Service since 1989 household’s holiday tradition. a virile ballet battle danced between renovated home, the historic 5 Points TRY A RISK FREE PSYCHIC READING Fletcher Holiday Parade, De- Nutcracker, Miles Sollars-White, a Studios at Broadway & Chestnut, cember 11. Hospitality volunteers returning Conservatory favorite, and provide a classic space, fully equipped are needed to serve hot cocoa at Mouse King Tyler Sandborn in his for the highest-level of dance train- $10 for 10 Minutes the Fletcher Holiday Parade as Conservatory debut. Both exciting ing, and Nutcracker rehearsals. In Satisfaction Guaranteed children visit with Santa Claus. male dancers visit from the North fact, passers-by can glimpse the re- If you are unhappy with your reading It’s FREE! Manna Food Bank Giving Tree, Carolina School of the Arts and are hearsing dancers within the Conser- through December 24. Volunteers Authentic Psychics Available 24/7 flanked by the Conservatory’s advanced vatory’s studio windows. In addition are needed to accept donations of corps-de-ballet of artillery and mice. to ballet, classes are offered in jazz, food and funds for MANNA Food More dancers means many more modern, tap, hip-hop, break dancing Find Your Answers to Bank at the Ingles Giving Tree in festive and beautifully stitched tutus plus Broadway jazz and acting. the Asheville Mall. and Victorian Era costumes, plus ar- Tickets for the December 16-17 Love, Money and Career The Salvation Army (Henderson tistic additions to the ballet’s theatrical performances are affordably priced so Call Today County) Bell Ringers are needed magic, settings, props and snow effects. entire families can enjoy this holiday for shifts in December, Monday- The Ballet Conservatory’s Nut- ballet together. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. cracker features elegant ballet on a 1-888-473-0459 Salvation Army (Henderson & mysterious December’s eve through Offer valid for first time customers only. Buncombe County): Angel Tree the eyes and dreams of young Clara. iF December 16-17 at Callers must be 18 years or older Program. Volunteers are needed This year, the role of Clara will be 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. through December 24 to assist shared by two talented young dancers, YOU Tickets only $10 to $15 with application, intake, sorting Sarah Foley and Clair Hutchinson, gO at Diana Wortham box Help Protect Your Home and Family toys, bagging gifts, and handing inheriting the role from Conserva- office (828) 253-4530 or out toys to children on distribution A home is burglarized every 9.1 seconds, donít let yours be the next! tory company ballerina Cassie Woods, visit www.dwtheatre.com. day. Various shifts are available. who will reprise her enchanting Sugar For more information phone Home Security System! Black Mountain Neurological Plum fairy. Sarah London will again (828) 255-5777 or visit www. FREE Center. Help wrap holiday gifts for dance the sinuous Arabian, plus the BalletConservatoryofAsheville.com. $850 Value! residents. Festive refreshments will At no cost to you for parts and activation with only a $99 installation fee be provided. Flexible 3-hour shifts and the purchase of alarm monitoring services. Terms & Conditions below. are available December 6, Decem- ‘Mini-Golf Course’ cont’d from page 35 24/7 PROTECTION only ber 7, and December 8. RR: What does the future hold for Gift Wrapping at Barnes & Sweet Tee Mini Golf? $35.99/mo. RR: With winter coming up does it Nobles (Asheville). The American Get up to a 20% DISCOUNT slow down? JK: This spring we will be expand- on home owner’s insurance! Red Cross and the Literacy Coun- ing to offer a variety of new products. JK: Well, this is our first winter. I really FREE wireless remote Available two-way voice that allows cil need volunteers to accept dona- I will be spending the winter in my control with PANIC BUTTON! you to instantly communicate with tions in exchange for wrapping hope not. The course does have scuff an ADT Security Specialist. garage building a 5-hole “mini” Mini customer’s holiday gifts. Donations proof bottoms for indoor use. We are Call Now and Help Protect Your Family! Golf Course to rent out for kids seven collected through this service go to hoping for a lot of people calling for and under, as well as a slew of carni- 1-888-791-9189 support the programs of these two holiday pParties! val games. We will also be offering a Mon-Fri 8am - 11pm - Sat 9am- 8pm - Sun 10am - 6pm EST non-profit organizations. $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $35.99 per month ($1,295.64). Form of payment must be by credit RR: Where can people go to get more couple bouncy houses, cotton candy card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory If you are 55+ and are inter- credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT information about Sweet Tee Mini and Sno Cone machines. So be sure to Security Services, Inc. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Licenses: AL-10-1104, AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, ested in learning more about these CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AC-0036, ID-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-City of Indianapolis: Golf? keep checking out our website for all 93294, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1375, Baltimore County: 1375, Calvert County: ABL00625, Caroline County: 1157, Cecil County: 541-L, Charles County: 804, Dorchester County: 764, Frederick County: F0424, Harford County: 3541, Montgomery County: 1276, opportunities please contact Vicki the details! Prince George’s County: 685, Queen Anne’s County: L156, St. Mary’s County: LV2039R, Talbot County: L674, Wicomico County: 2017, Worcester JK: We have a website that has every- County: L1013, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC354, St. Louis County: 47738, MS-15007958, MT-247, NC-25310-SP-LV, Jennings at the Land-of-Sky Re- 1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-68518, City of Las Vegas: B14-00075-6-121756, C11-11262-L-121756, NY-Licensed by thing you need to know! www.Sweet- the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000286451, OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement gional Council at (828) 251-6622 Contractor Registration Number: PA22999, RI-3428, SC-BAC5630, TN-C1164, C1520, TX-B13734, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382, TeeMiniGolf.com For more information please visit WA-602588694/PROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: 0001697, WV-042433, WY-LV-G-21499. For full list of licenses visit our website or [email protected]. www.protectyourhome.com. Protect Your Home – 3750 Priority Way South Dr., Ste 200, Indianapolis, IN 46240. "Crime data taken from www.SweetteeMinigolf.com http://ovc.ncjrs.gove/ncvrw2008/pdf/crime_clock_eng.pdf"

8 December 2010 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — Vol. 14, No. 4

prints color

RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE *LYH7KH*LIW7KDW:LOO 7KULOO(YHU\RQH holiday family fun Save $1 04 01

Once Upon a Time and A Dickens Tale 3OXV 2 FREE Gifts paRt OF aCt’S SatURdaY FaMiLY tHeatRe SeRieS ZLWKSXUFKDVH Order today! 6-Piece Cutlery Set right Star Touring Theatre and prices – $5 for both Both shows last 45 Asheville Community Theatre adults and children minutes each, are 7KH*ULOOLQJ&ROOHFWLRQ (ACT), are proud to announce – “Saturdays at interactive, and of- 4 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins the next installment of the ACT” is poised to fer the opportunity 4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 1 “Saturdays at ACT” family become the perfect for audience mem- 2 (4 /2 oz.) Stuffed Sole And FREE Cutting Board Btheatre series. way for families to bers to participate with Scallops & Crabmeat to every shipping address Limit of 2 Packages and 1 Cutlery Two Bright Star productions will experience live the- onstage. 8 (3 oz.) Gourmet Franks Set & Cutting Board per address. Standard shipping & handling be performed on the ACT Mainstage atre together,” said “There are 399 4 (4 oz. approx.) Boneless Chicken will be applied per address. Breasts Offer expires 12/31/10. on Saturday, December 18. Once David Ostergaard of seats in the audito- 3 4 (5 /4 oz.) Stuffed Baked Upon a Time (best for ages 3-10), a Bright Star Touring rium, so everyone Potatoes $ 99 retelling of “Jack and the Beanstalk” Theatre. “We had Fairy tales come to life in who comes to buy Reg. $154.00,Now Only ...... and “Cinderella,” will take the stage at a great turnout for Once Upon a Time. tickets will get 49 10 a.m. At 2:30 p.m., the holiday clas- the first shows, and in,” assures Susan &DOO1-888-481-1404 sic A Dickens Tale (best for we hope to see even more Harper, Managing Director of Ashe- and ask for 45102EZN ages 6+) will be performed. families in December!” ville Community Theatre. ©2010 OCG | OmahaSteaks.com, Inc. 12522 ZZZ2PDKD6WHDNVFRPVDQWD All tickets are $5 and are In Once Upon a Time, available for purchase at the the classic fairy tales “Jack HOLIDAY SPECIAL door only. The box office & the Beanstalk” and “Cin- will open an hour prior to derella” are hysterically iF Once Upon a Time each show. brought to life in a high- and A Dickens Tale +MZIXLI4IVJIGX+MJXERH YOU onstage December 18 at Immediately following energy comic masterpiece. gO Asheville Community the performance of Once In A Dickens Tale, old Theatre, 35 East Walnut Upon a Time, audience Scrooge, bumbling Bob Street in Asheville. “Meet the members are invited to Cratchit, one hilarious beg- Actors” reception begins at 11 a.m. meet the actors in the ACT gar woman, and all those Once Upon a Time at 10 a.m.; A lobby. Light snacks will be delightful ghostly visitors Dickens Tale at 2:30 p.m. All tickets 7%:) provided free of charge. A Dickens Tale, come to life in Bright Star’s $5 and available at the door. For more “With the plays an adaptation of A adaptation of Charles Dick- information please call the ACT Box ticketed at family friendly Christmas Carol. ens’ A Christmas Carol. Office at (828) 254-1320.

)MXLIV&SYUYIXMWSRP]  'LVMWXQEW 0MKLXW &PSSQWSJ 27th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular 6SWIW  +s/h ,SPMHE]'LIIV dRaWn tO tHe MagnetiC FieLd in aSHeviLLe 

hey’re back! For the first time netic Theatre Artistic Associate John )PIKERX+PEWW:EWI BY CHALL GRAY in two years, the Bernstein Crutchfield, Trinity Smith, and more. Offer ONLY available at pro owers.com/spirit Family return to Asheville, about the Magnetic Field bringing their hilarious 27th bar service. The Magnetic Theatre or call 1.888.431.1230 Chall Gray, owner/producer, will provide a home for local writers, ©2010 ProFlowers. limited. Not valid with any other offer. Supplies are Annual Bernstein Family Kent Joines, general manager, and TChristmas Spectacular to The Magnet- actors, directors, designers, musicians, Steven Samuels, artistic director invite dancers, and comedians, serving as ic Field, a brand-new café-bar-perfor- you to Asheville’s newest venue. Open mance house in the River Arts District. the only production company in the send the perfect gift for lunch and dinner Mondays-Satur- Southeast dedicated exclusively to Not seen locally since 2008, the days, the Magnetic Field will feature Unique and personalized gifts ever-fertile Bernsteins (last represented original works. for everyone on your list. locally grown food, shade-grown The Magnetic Theatre is the by brothers Jack and Jimmy, but now coffee, local brews on tap, and full with the entire family in tow) will River Arts District’s first professional bring new songs and sketches theatre. The Magnetic Field, café-bar- to the intimate Magnetic Field performance house, is located in the stage, while reprising such audi- Glen Rock Depot, at 372 Depot Street ence favorites as “Magic Corn,” in Asheville. in which Rudolph gets into the wrong feedbag, and “Union Elves,” in which Santa’s Helpers iF 27th Annual great gifts consider a strike on the worst Bernstein Family starting at YOU $ 95 +s/h save possible day, at the worst pos- Christmas Spectacular. 19 gO Performances begin % sible moment. OFF December 8 and run y o u r Working closely with order* Wednesdays through Saturdays 20 Magnetic Theatre Artistic Asso- ciates Mondy Carter and Karen at 7:30 p.m., with Friday, December Stobbe, the Bernsteins will also 10 featuring a special early start time To redeem this special offer go to of 7 p.m. Late shows on Friday and www.redenvelope.com/down welcome to the stage such local Saturday, December 17 and 18. or call 888.506.9740 favorites as Darren Marshall, Tickets: $12, $10 for students, seniors Tracey Johnston-Crum, Mag- *Discount does not apply to gift cards or certi cates, same-day delivery, shipping and handling, and groups of ten or more. taxes, third-party hosted products (e.g. wine) or Bose® products. Offer expires 12/31/2010.

Vol. 14, No. 4 — Rapid RiveR aRtS & CULtURe Magazine — December 2010 9 prints color