Self-Taught Artist Kent Paulette, Aka Derfla, Has an Exhibit of 15 Oil Paintings at Greenlife Grocery

The Asheville Ballet Brings “Billy the Kid” to Life. page 10

Kellylee Evans brings her smooth, urban- jazz style to Asheville for a Valentine’s Day treat. page 7

Bill and Sue Foley, owners of the Chocolate Fetish, create unique “Flavor Art.” page 8

Self-taught artist Kent Paulette, aka Derfla, has an exhibit of 15 oil paintings at Greenlife Grocery. page 18

Shelia Seals, owner of Forest Blue, a new, cozy, upscale-casual restaurant/lounge. page 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS Stage Preview The Asheville Arts Center Presents Into the Woods irected by Melissa Ricketts, this by Erin Scholze production will feature several of the Asheville Arts Center instructors and Asheville com- Beast”) as Cinderella, Jamie Meater as Jack, munity members. Monies raised and Ruth Butler is cast as Jack’s Mother. at this performance will be As is the tradition with this perfor- Dplaced towards the Asheville Arts Center’s mance, one can expect to see a few parts Scholarship program for those in need to played by the same actors. Paul Traini will attend classes at the center. perform the dual roles of the non-com- Abandoning the traditional fairy tale mittal Mysterious Man and the Narra- story lines, Into The Woods juxtaposes self tor; Amy McDonald plays the double interested wishing versus role of the matriarchal truthful morality. The Cinderella’s mother characters reveal many and Granny; and the scenarios of growing “You just can’t act. uncontrollable ap- up: family relationships, petites of Cinderella’s community responsibil- You have to listen. Prince and the Wolf will ity, and morality. You can’t just act. be portrayed by Kurt It all starts when You have to think.” Campbell. the Baker and the The musical Into Baker’s Wife (played The Woods debuted in by Paul Gerber and 1986 in San Diego and Heather Taft) express the wish to begin then moved onto Broadway the follow- a family and realize that the witch who ing year with much success to follow. The lives next doors has put a curse on them music and lyrics were arranged by Stephen for childlessness. In order to reverse the Sondheim, winner of many awards includ- curse, they embark on a quest into the ing several Tony Awards, several Grammy woods to find special objects from other Awards, an Academy Award, and a Pulitzer characters in various Brothers Grimm Prize. Sondheim is known by some as the Fairy Tales such as Cinderella, Little Red, greatest and perhaps best-known artist in Rapunzel and Jack (the one who climbed the American musical theatre. He also cre- the beanstalk). ated scores for A Funny Thing Happened Their quest weaves them into a world On the Way to the Forum and Sweeny of interconnectedness by swindling, lying Todd. The Into The Woods storyline was to and stealing from one another. What is written by award winning writer, James right and wrong flip flops in each charac- Lapine. Into The Woods is based on a book ter’s vision until contentedness with the called the Uses of Enchantment, written in arising situations falls into place and their 1976 by Bruno Bettelheim. wishes are granted… that is until they are once again disturbed by their own wants and desires for something more. f As their worlds crash down and cave I You Into The Woods, at the Diana in on them they are filled with confusion o Wortham Theatre, February 18 and chaos and are led to journey again G and 19. Curtain call will be at 7 into the woods. As the tale keeps bringing p.m. Tickets cost $25 adult/ them together, they realize their intercon- $19 student and can be purchased at nectedness and begin to blame one an- the Arts Center or the Diana Wortham Box other for their losses in the situation that office. For more information please call the incurs. The ghosts of their past begin to Asheville Arts Center at (828) 253-4000. haunt them with moral pronouncements, Diana Wortham Theatre, www.dwtheatre. ending the play with the words, “You just com, (828) 257-4530. can’t act. You have to listen. You can’t just act. You have to think.” The common theme throughout Located on Merrimon Ave and in South is the relationship between parents and Asheville, The Asheville Arts Center (AAC) their children and how this affects the is a school based on unlimited opportuni- community as a whole. Indeed, the most ties for students to explore their interests morally ambivalent and honest character in music, dance, and drama. AAC fosters a portrayed is the old scowling hag of the love and appreciation for the arts through Witch, played by Danelle Cauley. student-teacher relationships and offers Advertise with Rapid River Magazine Also starring in the Asheville Arts high-quality instruction and educational Center’s Into The Woods will be Rachelle experiences. (828) 646-0071 Roberts (previously Belle in Asheville Visit www.ashevilleartscenter.com and Free web links • Free ad design • Easy monthly billing Community Theatre’s “Beauty and the myspace.com/ashevilleartscenter.

February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6

Message from the Publisher Rapid River ® This month’s cover, although not as ex- ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE citing or colorful as other’s I have designed is my valentine to Asheville’s wonderful art Established in 1997 • Volume Twelve, Number Six community. It’s a simple thank you to all those who work, produce, and create the Distributed at over 390 locations throughout eight counties Asheville art scene. in WNC and South Carolina Most people come to this area because of the arts. When you get right down to it the arts have been a major part of this Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray February 2009 community at least since the 1970’s and Managing Editor: Beth Gossett www.rapidrivermagazine.com some could argue since the building of the Art Director: Dennis Ray Biltmore house in 1888-1895. As the area Print Production: Simone Bouyer grows and becomes more popular it begins to attract chain stores. Tourists may Proofreader: Mary Wilson Inside shop at our chain stores or eat at any of our Marketing: Dennis Ray fine chain restaurants, but that’s not what Harrison Graham Ray. Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray 2 Stage brought them to the area and that’s not what Accounting: Sharon Cole will keep food on our plates, so to speak. Into the Woods ...... 2 People do not travel here to shop at stores they have back home. It’s also Distribution: Dennis Ray Eleone Dance Theatre . . . . 5 fair to say that most do not come here just to shop. They also come to enjoy Russian National Ballet ...... 7 Asheville’s opera, symphony, chorus, chamber groups, live theatres, perfor- Contributing Writers Asheville Ballet ...... 10 mances, and music. It’s the arts that bring people here. The arts will keep us H. Byron Ballard, Byron Belzak, L.A. Theatre Works ...... 10 strong. It reminds me of a story. Sierra Bicking, Justin Blackburn, Laugh Your Asheville Off . . 12 The Cape honeybee from southern South Africa is quite unusual. You see, Greg Brown, Jenny Bunn, Asheville Symphony ...... 13 it lays female eggs, whereas workers of other honeybee species lay only male James Cassara, Michael Cole, NC Stage Company ...... 16 eggs. When a female worker from a Cape honeybee colony enters a different colony, she is not attacked because of her stunning resemblance to the queen KaChina Davine, Amy Downs, (like the way chain stores resemble independently owned stores). Free from her John Ellis, Beth Gossett, 7 Music own colony, she starts laying eggs. The worker bees tend to these eggs as if their Max Hammonds, MD, Phil Hawkins, Kellylee Evans . . . . 7 queen had produced them. These eggs hatch not as new bees but as “clones” of Nancy Hayes, Lindsay Hearn, Susan Werner ...... 11 the Cape bee. They in turn lay eggs, which too, are clones. As a result the Cape Pam J. Hecht, Jill Ingram, Jazz After 5 ...... 12 bees increase in number within a host colony and none of them do any work Phil Juliano, Chip Kaufmann, Eric Lindell ...... 15 other than lay eggs. Eventually all of the original worker bees die and the colony Michelle Keenan, Tom Kerr, The Tannahill Weavers . . . . 17 has no one left to gather food or maintain the hive. No one is left to take care of Amanda Leslie, Peter Loewer, Buncombe Turnpike . . . . 38 the Cape bees so they head out to seek new host colonies leaving behind vacant Kristine Madera, MariJo Moore, ruins of once thriving hives. April Nance, Bryan Paiement, Columns Michael Parker, Dennis Ray, 16 ~ Dennis Ray, Publisher Rapid River Magazine James Cassara - Music . . . 16 Erin Scholze, Megan Stone, H. Byron Ballard - Books . . . 22 Ashley Van Matre, Bill Walz, MariJo Moore - Poetry . . . 23 Kim Zdanowicz, Joe Zinich. Michael Parker - Wine ...... 29 Peter Loewer - Garden . . . 30 INFO Bill Walz - Artful Living . . . 31 Peter Loewer Rapid River Art Magazine is Joe Zinich - Beer ...... 32 Printmaker Graphos=Studio a free monthly publication. Max Hammonds, MD - Health . . 32 Address correspondence to: [email protected] or write to: 18 Fine Art Kent Paulette at Greenlife . . . . 18 Rapid River Art Magazine 85 N. Main St.. Jay M. Rotberg at Wickwire . . . . 19 Canton, NC 28716 Folk Art Center ...... 19 Phone: (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com 25 Movie Reviews All materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted by Rapid 33 Local Flavor River Art Magazine and the individual Forest Blue Restaurant . . . . 33 contributors unless otherwise stated. PO Box 5039 ~ Asheville, NC 28813 Opinions expressed in this magazine 34 Asheville Shops email: [email protected] do not necessarily correspond with the opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine blue . . . . 6 or the advertisers found herein. Chocolate Fetish ...... 8 © Rapid River Magazine, The Old Fort Store . . . 20 February 2009 Vol. 12 No. 6 36 What to Do Guide™ Best in Show by Phil Juliano. . . 37 Cover illustration by Dennis Ray. Callie & Cats by Amy Downs . . . 37 Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins . . 37 Dragin by Michael Cole. . . 37

February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY

Events to From Asheville With Love Fall in Love With Eleone Dance Theatre...... pg. 5 Vocalist Kellylee Evans . . . . . pg. 7 ebruary is a great month to get ring a cast drawn from the high ranks Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Performances Russian National Ballet . . . . . pg. 7 out and experience some live of L.A. Theatre Works, the characters are from February 18 to March 8, entertainment or art events. at the center of one of the great debates Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 Asheville Lyric Opera Actually there are many events of American society come to life in this p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. & Asheville Ballet...... pg. 10 going on this month, more than magnificent production by America’s On February 21, Bravo will present L.A. Theatre Works ...... pg. 10 past years. foremost radio theater company. The Russian National Ballet Theatre’s Singer Susan Werner...... pg. 11 F On February 6 the prepa- The Asheville Symphony Or- acclaimed production of Cinderella, Laugh Your Asheville Off. . pg. 12 ration for this summers 3rd Annual chestra will continue its 48th season with a group of over 50 dancers. Laugh Your Asheville Off Comedy of Masterworks Concerts on Saturday, And there is still so much more go- Jazz After 5 ...... pg. 12 Festival begins. Some of the newest February 14 at 8 p.m., at the Thomas ing on. For more information on these Asheville Symphony ...... pg. 13 faces in comedy and some veterans of Wolfe Auditorium. Music Director and other events happening this month North Carolina Stage Co. . . pg. 16 comedy come to Asheville with hopes Daniel Meyer will lead the orchestra in see the index to the right. Tannahill Weavers ...... pg. 17 of being selected for a spot in the larg- its annual Valentine’s Day concert, per- There are some shows and perfor- est stand-up comedy festival in the forming the music of Chopin, Gersh- mances coming in March that should southeast. win, Tchaikovsky, and David Diamond, be quite stunning. We’ll let you know On February 12-13, travel back featuring solo pianist Angela Cheng. more about them in next months issue. tine’s Day February 14 and save 40% in time to a sweltering, tension-filled This month’s top theatre pick is Asheville’s Lyric Opera will per- on your ticket to the Asheville Choral courtroom to experience first-hand the Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are form Guiseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto, and Society’s fun May Pops Concert Colors dramatic “monkey” trial as it took place Dead by NC Stage, an absurdist, the Asheville Choral Society will stage of My Life. All three events are worth over 80 years ago. L.A. Theatre Works existentialist tragicomedy by Tom GAIA: A Celebration of the Earth. Pur- far more than the cost of admission. presents The Great Tennessee Monkey Stoppard. The play expands upon the chase your sweetheart a ticket to GAIA: Trial at Diana Wortham Theatre. Star- exploits of two minor characters from A Celebration of the Earth by Valen- by Dennis Ray

Exhilarating and Soul-Stirring Eleone Dance Theatre Performs February 5 at Diana Wortham Theatre

rom the same city that birthed by John Ellis Rennie Harris Puremovement, Philadanco, and Koresh Dance Company, Eleone Dance The- its theme, “Peace, Love, and Dancing atre is known as an exhilarating with Soul”, to include among others: Yes- and soul-stirring dance company terday… Today… Tomorrow…, a rivet- presentingF works that are multicultural, ing work based on the student-led protest intergenerational, and socially and visually against Apartheid in South Africa; For appealing to all audiences. The company Always and For Ever Luther-The Suite, has a diverse repertoire of works that are a tribute to the late Luther Vandross, the contemporary, spiritual, rhythm and blues, multi-platinum, eight-time Grammy African, as well as hip-hop in theme. Award winner; Hear, See and Speak No Eleone Dance Theatre energizes Evil, a work performed in celebration of audiences with its exceptional artist- ry and profound sense of spirituality, inspiring critical, intel- lectual thought by approaching historical and contemporary issues from a variety of viewpoints. For its February 5 performance, Eleone Dance Theatre presents works as part of ‘Eleone Dance Theatre’ continued on pg. 10

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS Asheville Shops

to love or not Why Do We Celebrate to love that is Valentine’s Day at All? the question…

he history of Valentine’s Day is The oldest known and actual val- a combination of both Christian entine was a poem written by Charles, and ancient Roman legends and the Duke of Orleans, who was captured traditions. One prevalent ver- during the Battle of Agin Court. He was sion of the story involves a priest imprisoned in the Tower of London and named Valentine in Rome during the poem was to his wife. Today this val- Tthe third century. entine is viewed by many at The British At that time Emperor Claudius de- Library in London, England. cided that single men made much better Valentine's Day became associated soldiers than married men and so he made with romantic love and was very popular it illegal for young men to marry at all in in the High Middle Ages as people mutu- case he needed them for battle. Valentine ally exchanged love notes, or valentines as defied the decree and performed many they became known. The notes were typi- secret marriage ceremonies. Claudius dis- cally heart shaped and depicted cupids and covered this rebellious act and put him in doves. By the 19th century this occasion the Tower of London awaiting his death was immersed in the fabric of English and sentence. While imprisoned he fell in love French culture. with the jailer’s daughter and wrote her a In 1847, Esther Howland started a love poem signing it “from your Valen- business in Worchester, Massachusetts, tine,” thus starting the tradition of the hand making valentines cards. These now famous valentine card. cards were based on the old British em-

By the Middle Ages Saint Valentine bossed paper lace valentines and she sold was one of the most popular saints in them at first through her father’s large England and in France. At that time in book and stationery store. Today more ancient Rome, February was the official than one billion cards are sold worldwide. start of spring. During this time there An interesting fact is that women pur- was much being done to Christianize the chase more than 85% of those cards. pagan rituals and festivals. Prior to this, After 1950 this custom extended to Valentine’s Day had been associated with gift giving. These gifts included flow- the pagan Lupercalia festival at the Ides of ers (red roses became the favorite), and February. It was a fertility festival dedicat- small chocolates packed in heart shaped ed to the god of agriculture, Faunus, and boxes. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the to the founders of Rome itself, Romulus diamond industry became involved and and Remus. promoted Valentine’s Day as an occasion On this day the members of Luper- for giving jewelry. calia, an order of Roman priests, would Over the past twenty years we at blue meet together at a scared cave where they in Biltmore Village have noticed a great would sacrifice a goat for fertility and a increase of jewelry gift giving for this time dog for purification. Young women put honored day for lovers. Our gallery is their names in an urn and all the available filled with all kinds of special gifts made bachelors in the city would select a name. by local artists, but jewelery is by far the These two young people would be paired most popular gift chosen. We make a great together for a full year. Sometimes this variety of rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pairing would lead to marriage. earrings from 14k gold and featuring our Pope Gelasius, who was very in- very special handcut natural stones and strumental in making these rituals and “safe and happy” diamonds from Austra- festivals appear more Christian, declared lia. We hope you will truly love being a that this lottery was barbaric and defi- part of this heartfelt holiday. nitely unchristian and had it outlawed. February 14th then became known as the Happy Valentine’s Day Mating Day in France and England as it to Everyone! was widely known to be the beginning of mating season for birds. Mating Day was blue is open Tuesday through Saturday replaced fairly quickly by the much more 10:30 to 6 p.m. at 1 Swan Street in romantic name of Valentine’s Day. Historic Biltmore Village. Our website is also helpful – bluegoldsmiths.com.

February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Performance Urban-Jazz Vocalist Kellylee Evans and Her Band Perform Storied Russian National Ballet Special Valentine’s Day Concert Theatre Comes to Asheville

009 Canadian by John Ellis Smooth Jazz Award nominated singer-songwriter invitations to open for Kellylee Evans the likes of Tony Ben- 2 nett, Derek Trucks and and her band perform a special Valentine’s Day Maceo Parker. concert February 14 In addition to beat 8 p.m. as part of the ing a 2007 Juno Award Mainstage Music/Sing- nominee for Vocal Jazz er-Songwriter Series at Album, a 2007 Gemini Diana Wortham Theatre Award nominee along- at Pack Place. side Michael Buble and With a smooth style Measha Brueggergos- that slides through jazz, man, and a Toronto Singer-songwriter Independent Music soul, R & B, blues and Kellylee Evans world music rhythms, Award nominee Kellylee’s sound has for Best Jazz, Kel- lylee Evans has been been compared to Sade, “What a voice! Erykah Badu and Norah nominated this year Jones. The special Kellylee Evans was for a 2009 Canadian he Russian National Ballet The- the elite touring ballets of the world. Valentine’s Day perfor- Smooth Jazz Award, born to sing...” atre was founded in Moscow On February 21, Bravo will present mance at the 500-seat recognized in the ~ Alyson Fair, Producer, during the transitional period The Russian National Ballet Theatre’s Diana Wortham Theatre category of Female CTV’s Good Morning Canada of Perestroika in the late 1980s, acclaimed production of Cinderella, is a unique opportu- Vocalist of the Year, when many of the great danc- with a corp of over 50 dancers. This nity to hear this sultry, of which she was the T ers and choreographers of the Soviet evening is sure to be entertaining and bluesy vocalist in an winner in 2007. Union’s ballet institutions were exercis- enjoyable for young and old alike. intimate setting. If ing their new-found creative freedom by Kellylee Evans is a unique voice in Kellylee Evans brings her You starting new, vibrant companies. the music world and some of the world’s smooth urban-jazz style to Go The company was founded by If top musicians have taken notice. In 2004, Asheville for a Valentine’s Day and incorporated graduates from the u Presented by Asheville judges including Quincy Jones, Kurt El- treat. Mainstage Music/Singer- Yo great Russian choreographic schools of Bravo Concerts ling and Dee Dee Bridgewater awarded Songwriter Series. Go Moscow, St. Petersburg and Perm, and Saturday, February 21 at Evans second place in the Monk Jazz Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. the principal dancers of the company 7:30 p.m. in the Thomas Vocals Competition. Her debut album 8 p.m., February 14. Tickets: Regular $28; came from the upper ranks of the Wolfe Auditorium, Asheville, NC. was featured as a Barnes and Noble Dis- Seniors $26; Students $23; Student Rush great ballet companies and academies cover New Music title alongside Corinne day-of-the-show (with valid ID) $10. Tickets: $25-$60, through Ticketmaster at of Russia, and the companies of Riga, Bailey Rae and Gnarls Barkley, and her www.ticketmaster.com, The Civic Center Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or online at Kiev and even Warsaw. Now, twenty Box Office, or by calling (828) 225-5887. energy-charged performances have led to www.dwtheatre.com. years later, they are considered one of Students receive half-price seating.

Combat the Winter Blues with Great Music, Food and Drink The Merchants Association of Kamm’s Custard and much more. So downtown Asheville’s historic Grove grab your Hawaiian shirt and head Arcade, a.k.a. the Groove Arcade, will downtown to boogie the blues away! kick off a new evening event – First Friday – featuring music, food and drinks that will transport you to sum- If mer and take you back in time. You The Grove Arcade is First Friday will debut on Friday, o located at One Page Avenue February 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. with ad- G in downtown Asheville in ditional events taking place on March one of Asheville’s architec- 6, and April 3. tural jewels. Parking is available in In February, First Friday will the Wall Street, Rankin and Civic Center feature music from Steve Davidowski garages as well as on the street. & Friends, wine and beer from Santé, Directions to the garages and the Grove cherry cokes and root beer floats from Arcade can be accessed www.GroveAr- Red Bike, hot dogs and fries from cade.com. For additional information, Cats and Dawgs, frozen treats from call (828) 252-7799.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS Asheville Shops The Chocolate Fetish creates “Flavor Art”

“Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies.” ~ John Tullius (writer and champion tennis player)

alentine’s Day is a day known by Dennis Ray for love. A day that gives you a chance to start a new relation- “Indulge Your ship, or rekindle an old one, or Dark Desires” – simply remind that special some- edible chocolate one how wonderful they really sculpture created are.V This year you can give the gift of fine by Elizabeth Foley. chocolate — a gift that has meant, “I love you” since before 1100 BC. shop are many shelves filled with fine To the ancient Aztecs it was the nectar chocolates, gifts, assortments and chocolate of the gods. Europeans revered it as a sym- art created locally by daughter Elizabeth bol of wealth and power. African cultures Foley, who joined the company full time believed it an aphrodisiac. The scientific about a year ago. name for the tree from which chocolate The Chocolate Fetish is usually busy comes from, Theobroma cacao, translated but the selections are continually replen- from Greek, means “food of the gods.” ished throughout the day. The service is fast. Everyone working is knowledgeable and courteous. Top sellers are Chai Moon with 14 spices, Ancient Pleasures made with the subtle bite of cayenne or the intense dark chocolate truffle, Velvet Sin, with a rich sensation of all that is good and decadent. “We want our customers’ experience with our chocolate to be unlike anything they have ever tasted before,” Sue says. Their bulk chocolate One of the world’s greatest expres- comes from Belgium, Germany, France, sions of taste and rapture, chocolate is Switzerland, Venezuela and four types enjoyed by millions, yet few have success- from the U.S. which they blend to cre- fully combined the oldest traditions of ate their own flavor profile. They never confection-making with the purest natural use vegetable oil, instead use only the ingredients. The Chocolate Fetish in natural cocoa butter, which doesn’t leave downtown Asheville does just that. a waxy feel on the tongue. They use only European influences from France, fresh ingredients whenever possible Belgium, Germany and Switzerland and do not use chemical preservatives. can all be found in many of Bill “Chocolate has over 500 flavor and Sue Foley’s (manager/owner components,” Bill says, “We do not husband-and-wife) handiwork. add anything that will compromise Their unique recipes (kept secret) the flavor.” created in their beautiful mod- Each truffle (type of choco- ern kitchen have gone on to late confectionery, tradition- win many accolades around ally made with a chocolate the world. The Foleys ganache center coated in ship primarily in the U.S. chocolate or cocoa pow- since customs can take too der, usually in a spherical, long and fine chocolate, conical, or curved shape) like coffee, needs to be is created so each flavor is enjoyed fresh. timed released. What does Behind the glass coun- An alternative to a this mean? ters filled with chocolate traditional wedding cake, a For example, “With the open kitchen gives you “Smash Cake” has a thin the Dragon’s Kiss,” Bill a direct view of the hand- shell of chocolate that is says, “you start with a made chocolate process. smashed with a special burst of dark chocolate, Inside the European style hammer – the pieces then a moment later you shared with guests.

February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS Asheville Shops

working doing what I truly love.” In 2002 the Foley’s bought the Chocolate Fetish, which had been a successful but rather small business since 1986. They expanded and remodeled the original space, kept many of the customer favorites while creating new products and making the place their own. With his marketing experience and Bill and Sue Foley, owners of Chocolate Fetish. Sue’s love of confec- tions, together they have made one of the most successful small chocolate busi- Inside the European nesses in the country. They ship all over style shop you’ll find fine the U.S. and have many customers travel chocolates, gifts, and great distances just to have a truffle right off the cooling rack. chocolate art. Tours, schools and classes view, through the glass walls directly behind the taste sesame seed, then comes a kick of shop, the chocolate creations as they are wasabi but only for a couple seconds, then being made as Sue works with the trained you finish with chocolate.” staff and Bill conducts seminars. He goes on to explain that with any Bill offers private chocolate tast- of their truffles the finish is always that ings primarily for guests staying at the of their chocolate not the complimentary opulent downtown Haywood Park flavors like raspberry or ginger. “Flavor is a hotel. Guests sample chocolate from six balancing act, a true art form.” countries plus special Chocolate Fetish Locals appreciate their “flavor art” blends and learn a bit of history and how so much they consecutively have cho- chocolate is made. Recently, scientific studies will have chocolate lovers rejoicing even more; like with wine and tea, chocolate is good for your health. It contains a particular substance called epicatechin, which is a powerful antioxidant. According to Dr. Norman Hollenberg, Professor of Medi- cine at Harvard, major health problems like stroke, heart failure, cancer and diabetes can be prevented with epicatechin. Asheville has a lot to offer the tourists, locals and those living near by. The Chocolate Fetish is certainly high on that list. It is a wonderfully charming shop sen the Chocolate Fetish as the “The where some of our childhood dreams do Region’s Best Chocolate Shop” in the come true. After all it’s not so much the Mountain Xpress’s annual reader’s poll want of life but the need to live well. for the past 12 years. Also the Foleys have received national attention in publications like Chocolatier, Southern Living, Marquee, Sky and Candy. The shop was also selected to the The Chocolate Fetish Los Angeles Times “America’s Best” series. 36 Haywood St. “We do our best,” Bill says. “We work Downtown Asheville hard and at times I wonder if I’ll ever truly retire.” In the late ‘90s’ Bill took an Hours: early retirement from being a corporate Monday-Thursday 11:30-6 p.m. marketing executive at a large internation- Friday and Saturday 11-9 p.m. al company based in Belgium and moved Sunday 12-9 p.m. back with Sue to the States. “I didn’t (828) 258-2353 retire to stop working. I retired to start www.chocolatefetish.com

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW ‘Eleone Dance’ continued from pg. 5 The Asheville Ballet Brings Billy the Kid to Life the survivors of Hurricane Katrina, HIV/AIDS, 911, and other events that have forever reshaped our lives; and hen one thinks of Billy the by Bryan Paiement We Give Thanks, an Eleone Dance Kid, images of the 19th Theatre signature work choreographed century teenage outlaw by Artistic Director Shawn-Lamere come to mind. The leg- or not the December performances Williams, a previous artistic director W endary story of his twenty- of the Nutcracker would be feasible; with Philadanco II. one kills, one for each year of his life, the show went on. Ann was forced to is likely to surface. up the ticket prices in some areas and Ballet is not a word likely to ring lower them in others, along with cut- synonymous with Billy the Kid, but ting one show. “It was sold out, that’s thanks to the creative vision of the amazing… it’s amazing.” Ann credits Asheville Ballet’s director and cho- the great vibe in Ashville for the suc- reographer, Ann Dunn, and Aaron cess of the Nutcracker in December. Copeland’s composition, the Asheville For those interested in pursuing Ballet is bringing Billy the Kid back to a career in ballet, or who would just life. The performance will take place at like to participate recreationally, the Diana Wortham Theatre on May 8-9, Asheville Ballet offers classes in, bal- complete with a live orchestra. let, pointe, and modern/jazz for every The ABG, Asheville Ballet Guild, the way as international artist Rick Mc- skill level. The Lyric Opera and Ballet Inc., is one of Western North Carolina’s Collough choreographs the dancers to of Asheville, who have joined forces to oldest non-profit arts organizations. The Vivaldi’s inspiring composition. combine marketing, stress the importance ballet presents three shows per season: the ADDANCE (AnnDunnDancers), the of community involvement in the per- Pre-Performance Discussions fall show, which is comprised of original professional center of the ballet, is com- forming arts in whatever way possible. To enhance patrons’ understand- choreography, the Nutcracker, which is prised of eight expert, adult dancers who The Asheville Ballet and Lyric ing and enjoyment of Eleone Dance the most popular production and draws have trained with a myriad of reputable Opera play a major part in the economic Theatre’s Asheville performance, a the widest variety of patrons, and the ballet and modern companies ranging development for Asheville. When busi- pre-show discussion is presented by spring performance that is a solid com- from the New York City Ballet to Merce nesses look for relocation opportunities, Wayne Burritt, director of Mountain bination of modern and ballet. Training Cunningham. Members of ADDANCE the merit of a city can often be gauged by Ballet Company, in The Forum at and rehearsal time for each performance have also worked with the Asheville Sym- their cultural arts programs. Large urban Pack Place at 7 p.m. prior to the per- typically lasts four months. phony, Asheville Lyric Opera, Asheville centers, such as New York or Chicago, formance. Free for ticket holders. On the same program with Billy the Choral Society, and at the Asheville Art have these flourishing aspects, and the Eleone Dance Theatre’s Asheville Kid, Ann Dunn and composer Matthew Museum. Ann has hired dancers for AD- companies relocating from such centers performance is partially supported by Richmond will collaborate to bring the DANCE from Asheville, South Carolina, expect to find the same enriching quali- a grant from Pennsylvania Performing world premier of Echo to the stage. The Tennessee, and Virginia. Although she ties in prospective cities. Asheville has Arts on Tour, a program developed performance will tell the story of Echo, used to tour with her company around the established itself as one of those cities. and funded by The Heinz Endow- Narcissus, and Hera, and will be accom- United States, the Ballet’s performances For more information please call ments; the William Penn Foundation; panied by live music. can now only be seen in Asheville. (828) 258-1028, or email ann.dunn@ the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Lauda Jerusalem will be next on Because of the ruinous economy, mindspring.com. a state agency; and The Pew Chari- stage. A live orchestra and choir will lead Ann had to make a decision as to whether table Trusts; and administered by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. This performance is funded in part by a grant from the Southern Arts Federation in L.A. Theatre Works’ The Great Tennessee Monkey Trial partnership with the National En- dowment for the Arts and the North his riveting produc- William Jennings Bryan, three- by John Ellis Carolina Arts Council. The Mainstage tion is based entirely time Presidential candidate and Dance Series is sponsored by Tina & on original transcripts former Secretary of State turned John McGuire, Hedy Fischer & Randy of the famous 1925 religious speaker; Arye Gross by the 28th Judicial District Bar Associa- Shull, and the Art Fryar Charitable Tennessee v. John playing Arthur Garfield Hayes, a tion. The February 13 discussion will be Trust Fund, with additional support T Scopes “Monkey Trial”, which prominent free speech advocate; led by Rodger Payne, Director of Reli- from Media Sponsor WNC Magazine. challenged the newly passed Jerry Hardin playing Judge John gious Studies at UNC Asheville. Tennessee legislature’s “Butler Raulston; and James Gleason play- Free for ticket holders. Act” banning the teaching of ing H.L. Mencken, famed satirical If If evolution in the state’s public Edward Asner reporter who coined the moniker L.A. Theatre Works presents u Eleone Dance Theatre schools. “Monkey Trial.” You Yo presents works that are The Great Tennessee Monkey Go The trial set the stage for Go Trial, part of the Mainstage multicultural, intergenera- an ongoing national debate Pre-Show Discussion tional, socially and visually Theatre Series. Note: cast is appealing to all audiences. over the freedom of inquiry To enhance patrons’ under- subject to change. and the separation of Church standing and enjoyment of L.A. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place. and State, issues that remain 8 p.m., February 5, 2009. Theatre Works’ Asheville perfor- 8 p.m., Thursday, February 12, and Friday, unresolved even today. mances, pre-show discussions are February 13. Tickets: Regular $35; Seniors $33; The L.A. Theatre Works held in The Forum at Pack Place Students $30; Student Rush day-of-the- performance of The Great Ten- Tickets: Regular $32; Senior $30; Student show (with valid ID) $10. 7 p.m. each evening prior to the $27; Student Rush day-of-the-show $10 nessee Monkey Trial features performances. The February 12 (with valid I.D.) Tickets/Info: (828) 257- Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or online at the well known and respected discussion includes a panel hosted 4530 or online at www.dwtheatre.com. www.dwtheatre.com. actors: Edward Asner playing Arye Gross

10 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Music

religious culture with songs both heart- them, Werner is relishing the challenges Daring and Innovative felt and incisive, drawing from Werner’s of being a creative free spirit and enjoying own personal spiritual questions and the an exciting new phase of doing themed Singer-Songwriter Susan Werner search for common ground on the issues musical projects. that divide America. Her sound on The ith nine al- Gospel Truth is inspired by legendary by John Ellis If bums under and contemporary country, gospel and You An enthralling evening with her belt, an bluegrass artists. Yet again, in her 2004 o Susan Werner, Mainstage Mu- extraordinary day” (Chicago Tribune). release I Can’t Be New, Werner delivers G sic/Singer-Songwriter Series. Wlive show It is with her con- her modern contribution to the Great Diana Wortham Theatre at and active touring career cept records in the past American Songbook by writing originals Pack Place. 8 p.m., February 20. throughout the U.S., four years that Werner in the style of Gershwin and Cole Porter, Tickets: Regular $28; Seniors $26; Students combined with a string has firmly established but from a present-day woman’s point $23; Student Rush day-of-the-show (with of accolades from the her reputation as one of of view. Because of the success of these valid ID) $10. Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 likes of The Washington the boldest creative forc- albums and her experience researching for or online at www.dwtheatre.com. Post, The Village Voice, es on the acoustic scene and The New Yorker, today. In her forthcom- Susan Werner has being release Classics come one of the defin- (in stores February 3), ing genre-busting artists Werner delivers entirely of our time. new string arrangements As an artist Werner of mainstream popular commands rapt atten- songs by top songwriters tion from her audiences. The songs on her from the sixties and seventies. Drawing on concept albums effortlessly slide between her unique training as a classical vocal- folk, jazz, pop, Americana, and classical, ist, and on the diverse talents of esteemed boldly endeavoring to weave old with new Boston Symphony and Pops players, Clas- to create altogether sics sets a mood that new genres of music, highlights elegance keeping her audiences and sophistication. guessing and laughing. “This Woman is great. Period.” The motivation Werner’s work infuses ~ Music Row (Nashville) to create an album traditional music styles like Classics was in- and methods with her spired by her success unmistakable contemporary worldview, with her 2007 concept album The Gospel confirming her reputation as “one of the Truth, a record that taps fearlessly into most innovative songwriters working to- the zeitgeist of contemporary American

Free Planet Radio by KaChina Davine n evening with American cajon, and Free Planet Western drum set; Radio offers a and multi- Grammy richly unique award-winning bassist aural experi- Eliot Wadopian on Aence which includes electric and string the exotic sliding basses, leaping effort- string sounds of the lessly between rhythm Indian dotar dancing and melody. around a pulsing Jazz These artists Bass accented by the emerged from three shimmering jingles of an Egyptian riq of the country’s finest conservatories, and tambourine. each has established himself in concert Free Planet Radio weaves Middle halls and studios, appearing on over 200 Eastern, Indian, and North African me- recordings and in 30 countries. Their tal- lodic and rhythmic structures and blends ents have garnered worldwide recognition them expertly with the subtleties and from Carnegie Hall to the Hong harmonic vocabulary of Western classical Kong World Music Festival. music, underscored with the improvisa- tory element of jazz. If u Free Planet Radio performs Free Planet Radio consists of Chris Yo on Saturday, February 7, at Rosser, exploring melody on a variety of Go 8 and 10 p.m. at The White Indian and Turkish stringed instruments, Horse in Black Mountain. guitar, piano and melodica; River Guer- Special guest artist Armenian folk guerian on an extensive array of global singer Mariam Matossian. Tickets are $10. percussion instruments including Middle For more information: (828) 669-0816 or Eastern frame drums and doumbek, Latin www.whitehorseblackmountain.com.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW “Laugh Your Asheville Off” Launches Jazz After 5 Concert Series Presents 2009 Stand-Up Comedy Concert Series The Pipeline & Trevor Stoia Jazz Trio

Friday, FEbruary 6 at the Diana Wortham Theatre he free 2009 Jazz After 5 con- by Lindsay Hearn cert series continues on Friday he preparation for this summer’s evening, February 20, from by Greg Brown 3rd Annual Laugh Your Asheville 5 to 8 p.m., and will feature Association and this year will also collect Off Comedy Festival begins Feb- The Pipeline and the Trevor donations for Manna Food Bank. At- Theatre,” says Charlie Gerencer. T tendees are asked to bring non-perishable ruary 6 at the Diana Wortham Stoia Jazz Trio. The Grove Arcade and T Theatre when some of the new- Each comic is on stage for a fraction the Asheville Downtown Association items to the concerts and to leave them est faces of comedy and some veterans of the time they normally perform in co-sponsor the concert series, now in its at the collection points. “We’re really of comedy come to Asheville in hopes of comedy clubs, so it’s going to make for a fourth year, which features local musi- glad to be able to do something to help getting chosen for a performance spot in punch line packed and high energy show. cians and takes place the third Friday of Manna Food Bank and our neighbors the largest stand-up comedy festival in January, February, March and April. in need,” says Ruth Summers, executive the southeast. Patrons can purchase beer, wine and director of the Grove Arcade. “The jazz The hundreds of submissions for If martinis as well as hors d’oeuvres from evenings are great fun and an easy way to the 2009 comedy concert series has been You Laugh Your Asheville Off local restaurants including the French give something back to the community.” nearly overwhelming for the Laugh Your Go Showcase, Diana Wortham Broad Chocolate Lounge and Chorizo. The Asheville Downtown Associa- Asheville Off organizers, Greg Brown Theatre at Pack Place, Febru- Sponsorship for the Jazz After 5 series tion is a non-profit organization found- and Charlie Gerencer, and they thought ary 6, at 8 p.m. has been provided by LandDesign and ed in 1987 to be the voice of the down- that a season opening “Asheville comedy Tickets: $15 before February 5, $20 day Highland Brewery. town community and to promote and showcase” in front of the Asheville crowd of show. Advance tickets sold at the Sense The Pipeline features Jeff Knorr on support the quality economic, cultural seemed like the right fit for comics to of Humor on Walnut Street or the Diana organ, Grant Cuthbertson on upright and residential development of down- bring their best material. Wortham Box Office (828) 257-4530. bass and Ben Bjorlie on drums. The town Asheville. The ADA also pro- “We can watch a comic on YouTube, band’s sound features the organ in motes downtown as a destination. More but you never get a feel how good the styles ranging from swing to Latin jazz information about Jazz After 5 and the laughyourashevilleoff.com Downtown Association is available at comic is until they are in front of the www.myspace.com/laughyourashevilleoff and beyond. Bjorlie says, “We have fun Asheville crowd at the Diana Wortham rearranging standards people are familiar www.AshevilleDowntown.org with as well as picking out a few obscure and (828) 251-9973. tunes that may be new to some of our audience members.” If The other end of the Arcade will be u The Grove Arcade is lo- Yo cated at One Page Avenue enjoying tunes from the Trevor Stoia Go in downtown Asheville and Jazz Trio featuring Stoia on bass, Mi- offers unique shopping, chael Libramento on drums and Shane dining and regional crafts. Parking Perlowin on guitar. The Trio has been is available a short walk away in the Wall together for a year and delivers a unique Street, Rankin and Civic Center garages sound that blends the distinctive style of as well as on the street. Directions to each musician. the garages and the Grove Arcade can be The Jazz evenings raise funds for accessed www.GroveArcade.com. For ad- operations of the Asheville Downtown ditional information, call (828) 252-7799.

Tanglewood Youth Theatre Winter Session Begins at Asheville Community Theatre

egistration is by Jenny Bunn now open for Tanglewood Youth The- for nine weeks. Each R atre classes at class culminates with a Asheville Community performance for family Theatre. and friends. The tu- Beginning in Feb- ition for classes ranges ruary, ACT is offering from $100 to $200. seven classes that will A full schedule of spark your child’s creativity! Classes are upcoming classes at offered in acting, comedy writing and Asheville Community Theatre is posted performance, musical theatre and con- at www.ashevilletheatre.org. Asheville temporary theatre. Tanglewood classes Community Theatre is currently taking are affordable, exciting, and fun! registrations for all winter classes, Spring Our Tanglewood Youth Theatre Break camp, and Summer camps. classes are offered either after school or To register, or for more informa- during the day. Classes begin the week tion, please contact Jenny Bunn at (828) of February 2, and meet once a week 254-2939 x21.

12 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE STAGE PREVIEW

Asheville Symphony Presents “First Loves” If You Tickets are available through usic Director orchestra in Canada, as On Saturday, February 14 from 7 to o the Symphony office or the Daniel Meyer well as many in the USA 7:30 p.m., Maestro Meyer will present an G Asheville Civic Center box will lead the and beyond. For her abridged version of his presentation on office, and range in price from orchestra in outstanding interpreta- the musical works, and will introduce the $53 to $19 (with discounts available for M its annual tions of Mozart, Cheng soloist, in the Banquet Hall of the Ashe- students). Valentine’s Day concert, received the Medal of ville Civic Center. Both lectures are free Visit www.ashevillesymphony.org or call performing the music Excellence at the Mo- of charge and open to the public. (828) 254-7046 for more information on this of Chopin, Gershwin, zarteum in Salzburg in and other Asheville Symphony concerts. Tchaikovsky, and David 1991. Diamond, featuring solo After intermission, pianist Angela Cheng. the audience will enjoy The program will the rare treat of hear- begin with Music for ing George Gershwin’s Shakespeare’s “Romeo Lullaby, written when And Juliet”, written in he was in his early 20s. 1947 by the American Daniel Meyer Lullaby was written as composer David Dia- a composition exercise mond. Diamond was concerned about the for string quartet, but it will be performed “chaotic” state of music composition in the here in an arrangement for string orches- 1940s, and expressed that “the romantic tra. Fans of Gershwin’s more famous spirit in music is important because it is works will recognize his masterful blend- timeless.” Those values are evident in this ing of classical and jazz elements in this work, which captures the pathos of the short piece. “star-crossed lovers” with The evening will elegance and restraint. conclude with the Next the orchestra beloved Romeo and will be joined by Canadian Juliet Fantasy Overture piano virtuoso Angela by Peter Ilyich Tchai- Cheng in the Concerto kovsky. The premiere No. 2 in F minor for Piano of this piece in 1870 and Orchestra, Opus 21 did not go well – the by Frédéric Chopin. The composer famously said, great pianist and composer “My overture had no wrote this piece at the success and passed quite age of 20, when he was unnoticed.” He revised head-over-heels in love the work several times, with a fellow student at the and the 1880 version has Warsaw Conservatory. He become a favorite. never told her of his strong Pianist Angela Cheng On Friday, Febru- feelings, but expressed ary 13 from 3 to 4:30 them fully instead in the second move- p.m., at the Reuter Center on the Cam- ment of this concerto. pus of UNC-Asheville, an introductory Consistently cited for her bril- speaker will talk about the lives and times liant technique, tonal beauty and superb of the composers, and Music Director musician-ship, pianist Angela Cheng has Daniel Meyer will discuss the musical appeared as soloist with virtually every works and introduce the featured soloist.

“Rave On!” With Buddy Holly Experience Buddy Holly through Baby,” “Peggy Sue,” and “That’ll Be the musical celebration “Rave On!” the Day,” tells stories and Actor and musician cracks jokes. Billy McGuigan, If who originated the u “Rave On!” will begin at production, has Yo 7:30 p.m. Friday, February portrayed Holly Go 6, at the Fine and Perform- since 2002. ing Arts Center at Western Backed by an Carolina University. eight-piece band Tickets: $25 adults; $20 seniors, WCU McGuigan per- faculty and staff; and $5 for students. For forms Holly songs tickets and more information call (828) such as “Maybe 227-2479, or visit www.ticketreturn.com.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 13 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE MUSIC

February CD Reviews by James Cassara

Given the absence of new releases this month I’ll instead clear the stacks of a few discs that came my way over the last few months. Remember, if I mention it here you can bet it is a worthwhile addition to your collection. Be sure to support the many fine independent record stores we are for- tunate to have here in Asheville.

King Crimson a dimension not previously heard. In steaming plates of Louisiana cooking: It Elektrik that way EleKtrik serves both new mixes in songs by Bob Dylan, J. J. Cale and well-versed listeners with an and Julie Miller alongside originals and Inner Knot Music accurate portrayal of the band at this traditional Louisiana fare without com- The audio stage in their history. promising either. No wonder such tal- companion to the For that reason alone it’s a highly ented guests as Merchant, John Sebastian, Eyes Wide Open recommended listen for all interested and Roswell Rudd seem right at home. double DVD col- parties. ***1/2 Alligator Purse is the sort of sprightly lection highlights listen that would put anyone at ease. *** in fine fashion the BeauSoleil band’s 2003 perfor- Billy Bragg mance at Tokyo’s Kouseinenkin Hall. Alligator Purse The latter day line up of Adrian Belew Yep Roc Records Mr. Love & Justice (guitar/vocals), Robert Fripp (guitar), While this quintet may be as syn- Cooking Vinyl Records Trey Gunn (fretless guitar), and Pat onymous with Cajun culture as shrimp It’s both revealing and troubling that Mastelotto (drum traps/buttons) is in gumbo and crawfish it’s their shape-shift- Billy Bragg’s best albums since 1986’s great form, demonstrating a thunderous ing nature that has kept them so fresh Talking with the Taxman about Poetry and nearly industrial sound that literally throughout the years. were the two Mermaid Avenue volumes, leaps out from the speakers. With Alligator Purse they remain in which he cast his hero Woody Guth- This is Crimson at their most lean, ef- as adept as ever at staying true to their rie’s unpublished lyrics to new music. fortlessly able to maneuver through some Zydeco selves while creating a fusion Bragg did so with Wilco serving as his of the most challenging material from their of sounds that is respectful of but never collabora- vast and varied repertoire. Clearly the band restricted by tradition. Bandleader Mi- tors and has become Belew’s baby; his rat-tat-tat chael Doucet’s evenhanded fiddling and backing guitar histrionics are now as much a part expressive, amiable voice sets the tone, mates, of their mythos as Fripp’s neo-progres- giving a decidedly Cajun backbone to the suggesting sive applications, and while the undeni- proceedings in freewheeling fashion. The that this able sense of drama is magnified by the opening “Reel Cajun/452 North St. Jo- former reserved and respectful Japanese audience seph St.,” is one of a handful of straight- one-man there are times you might wish the group up bayou burners (“Carrière Zydeco,” band would stretch out a bit more. “Bosco Stomp” being the others) that are suddenly This becomes all the more pro- both elec- needed nounced during Fripp’s “Introductory trifying and ample help Soundscape” solo, which is an opening immediately to communicate with his audience. prelude to Belew’s “Power to Believe I accessible. From the get-go of his career Bragg (A Cappella)” haiku. The arrangement Still, it’s has sounded confident and all but unbeat- provides several new angles and narrow the band’s able — his earliest albums set a standard viewpoints into the band’s current dy- penchant for 1980’s political folk/rock — but since namics, particularly during “ConstruKc- for flawless then he’s sounded at times either cre- tion of Light” and “Happy With What genre-hop- atively uncertain, worn out, or both. So You Have to Be Happy With.” ping that perhaps the wonderfully annotated Yep The quartet momentarily ratch- solidifies its Roc reissues of the past few years, which ets downward with strikingly intimate well-deserved reputation as an Ameri- Bragg personally selected and supervised, versions of “One Time” and the twin can institution. Nowhere is this more relight those artistic fires. Either way, Mr. instrumentals “Level Five” and “Danger- evident than in such Doucet penned Love & Justice is a pleasant and encourag- ous Curves” but they quickly reassert jewels as “Rouler et Tourner” and the ing surprise, an unassuming collection themselves with the fourth installment jazz tinged “Marie”. that harkens back to his best days. of “Larks’ Tongues in Aspic.” These are With “Little Darling” they even toss While hardly perfect it finds Bragg at among the highlights that demonstrate in a bit of old-time country augmented by his most relaxed and resourceful sound- the seemingly psychic powers and singu- the high and lonesome crooning of guest ing in ages. He’s at last coming to terms lar thought processes that unify this ag- Natalie Merchant. But the band wisely with maturity and the changing face gregate into equaling, if not in some ways keeps true to regional ingredients such as of the world — a pair of concerns that besting, previous incarnations of KC. accordion, Dixieland horns, and a steady have dogged him in recent years — and Belew is as impressive as ever, seam- Cajun backbeat, meaning even while they while it lacks the venomous bite of his lessly trading stellar solo guitar moments expand their collective roots they never best work he’s clearly learned to com- with Fripp, but it’s his solid and versatile stray too far from their signature sound. municate his ideas without the piss and vocal work that sets him apart. He’s a far The result is a kind of all-day street vinegar of the early days. more inspired lyricist than Fripp ever was, party that welcomes both purists and Let’s face it, that approach may have giving this incarnation of King Crimson visitors with open arms, cold beer, and ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg.

14 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT'S HAPPENING

Eric Lindell Performs at the White Horse by Erin Scholze

hen singer/songwriter/vocal- all over the globe. Moore, and the two and Galactic’s Stanton Moore. ist Eric Lindell first hit the From the first single jammed together Lindell’s live shows draw as much national music scene with his “Lay Back Down” often. Some of attention as his material. His unstop- 2006 Alligator Records debut to the undeniable New Orleans’ finest pable grooves, rocking, deeply rooted, W Change In The Weather, groove of a totally re- players, including original songs and excellent musician- critics and fans alike celebrated the ar- worked version of Gil keyboardist Ivan ship never fail to fill the dance floor. rival of a roots rocker with dozens of Scott-Heron’s “Lady Neville and drum- With the release of Low On Cash, unforgettable original songs. Day and John Col- mers Harold Brown Rich In Love, Lindell and his band will With his musical roots planted in trane” (the album’s and Johnny Vidacov- continue to tour heavily, giving the rest Northern California, Lindell’s music sole cover song) to ich, often joined him of the country the chance to discover blossomed in New Orleans. His com- the New Orleans on stage. Galactic for themselves what a growing number bination of sweet, blue-eyed soul with bounce of “Tried And bassist Rob Mercurio of people already know: Eric Lindell is foot-stomping R&B, swamp pop, funk True,” Low On Cash, began sitting in as a musician bursting at the seams with and blues have won him critical and Rich In Love is Eric well, and word of talent, with the uncanny natural abil- popular acclaim across the country. As Lindell at his very Lindell’s immense ity to come up with one instantly classic he toured the U.S., his fan base grew, best. His sinewy and talents quickly spread song after another, and the desire to take and before long clubs and festivals were soulful vocals recall 1970s Van Morrison, around the city. According to Lindell, his music to every corner of the filled with happy, dancing people singing while his guitar and harmonica work are “It’s a great feeling to be recognized for music-loving universe. the words to every song. Now he’s back uniquely his own. With sweet saxo- your music in New Orleans.” f with Low On Cash, Rich In Love, a col- phones punching in all the right places Lindell’s 2006 Alligator Records I You Eric Lindell performs on lection filled with solid grooves, insight- and grooves building on top of each debut, Change In The Weather, de- o Friday, February 13 at The ful lyrics and one emotionally rich song other, Eric Lindell has created a timeless lighted and surprised music fans hun- G White Horse, 105C Mon- after another. collection of songs. gry for a truly original artist. Lindell’s treat Rd. Show begins at 9 Recorded at Piety Street Studio in Lindell headed down to New Or- deceptively simple sounding songs, laid p.m, $12 admission. Call (828) 686- New Orleans, Low On Cash, Rich In leans in 1999, where he befriended many back grooves and hook-laden melodies 8742 for more information or visit www. Love will delight Lindell’s fan base and older swamp pop musicians. Before were fueled by guests including War whitehorseblackmountain.com, or www. will capture the attention of music lovers long he met up with Galactic’s Stanton drummer Harold Brown, Ivan Neville ericlindellband.com

‘CD’s’ continued star cast includ- It’s a two-for-one deal as a Solo Guitarist ing bassist David soundtrack and a new Wainwright Pilch, Greg Leisz, album. As such, it’s his best mate- Paul Vondiziano worked for a man in his 20’s but coming Van Dyke Parks, rial in more than a decade, focused, from a gent now on the far side of a half Richard Thomp- adventurous, and alternately lush The annual Carl Sandburg Solo century it would likely sound forced and son, and others. and to the bone. The band plays Guitar Recital will feature art- silly. He also sounds more comfortable Accord- like a band; the songs have no extra ist Paul Vondiziano. Paul has with his current band. ing to the liner lyrical or musical baggage, and the premiered works for guitar such Having toured for several years with notes, Knocked melodies tread numerous musical as his own The Blokes he’s clearly gained their con- Up director Judd lines without ever crossing either Memories of fidence; the give and take between Bragg Apatow saw Wain- of them for too long. Wainwright’s Inner Time and his partners is warm and easy, and wright perform as wry as ever, but without the gives the material just the right amount and Triptych, “Grey in L.A.” and asked him to record caustic bitterness that can plague some as well as of buoyancy. And while Billy Bragg isn’t a version without words. Wainwright, in of his work. standing atop as many soapboxes as he Will Bottje's London at the time, agreed under certain The way these players interact to- Lighter once did, his knack for forging such po- conditions; Thompson would play guitar gether feels organic, inseparable from the litical anthems as “Sing Their Souls Back Strings. This and Joe Henry would be his collaborator. body of the composition or the grain in program will Home” and “Farm Boy” is as tidy as ever. The music from the songs plays largely the singer’s voice. Strange Weirdos may The scope of Mr. Love & Justice may include per- Paul Vondiziano as the beginning and end credits of the have an unusual title, but these songs are formances of be modest, but it speaks with grace, wis- film, but they were used with the words anything but. Such sublime reflection as Prelude, Fugue, Allegro by J.S. dom, and heart, finding Bragg a bit older stripped out and as incidental music. “Valley Morning,” where the protagonist and a bit wiser but no less committed to So here are the songs that Wain- watches, muses and reflects on love is as Bach, three Brazilian pieces by fighting the good fight. **** wright and Henry cut, restored to the timeless as Wainwright has ever been; a Joao Guimaraes-Pernambuco, and original full form of vocals and all. There small testament to the loopy, lopsided Koyunbaba by Carlo Domeniconi. Loudon Wainwright III is a pair of covers on the set, including a journey of love in life. The program will be held at the Strange Weirdos: Music From and delightful take on Mose Allison’s “Feel Who would have thought that at this First Congregational Church in Inspired by the Film Knocked Up So Good.” Henry contributed a couple of stage in his career, Wainwright (with help Hendersonville, NC, on Sunday, instrumentals in the atmospheric “Ypsi- from a very empathetic co-producer in Yep Roc Records February 8, at 3 p.m. $10 donation lanti,” and the gorgeous Parks and band Henry) would come up with a recording per person. Unlike so many recordings that are ballad “Naomi.” Wainwright also re-cut like this: a treasure chest of truly great “music from and inspired by the film,” “Lullaby,” a song from a 1973 album. He songs that communicate so effortlessly For more information contact Carl Strange Weirdos actually serves as both and Henry co-wrote “You Can’t Fail Me his ruminations and hopes? As an album, Sandburg Home National Historic a soundtrack and as Wainwright’s latest Now” and the loose, raggedy blues “So it’s seamless, uncluttered, inspired, and offering. Co-produced by Wainwright Site at (828) 693-4178 or visit our Much to Do.” Those are the mechanics one of this season’s best. ****1/2 website at www.nps.gov/carl. and Joe Henry, the album boasts an all- but they fail to tell the entire story.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS STAGE PREVIEW

North Carolina Stage Company presents the Comedy Classic Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead om Stoppard turns Hamlet on its ear by making two minor char- by Amanda Leslie acters the hapless protagonists of their own story. In Stoppard’s re- imagining, Rosencrantz and Guil- denstern (or is that Guildenstern Tand Rosencrantz?) are out of their depths and woefully unsure of their place in the puzzle. While Shakespeare’s masterpiece plays out around them, our heroes remain one tragic step behind the action. NC Stage is taking aggressive steps to keep its ticket prices affordable. In addition to the 30% off “Recession-Proof Ticket,” NC Stage also offers a student rush ticket for $10 (available 10 minutes before curtain). More remarkably, patrons who plan ahead can see Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead for as little as $6. Wednesday February 18 is “Pay- What-You-Can Night.” On this night only patrons choose whatever price they can afford for a theatre ticket, with a minimum of $6 (cash only, exact change only). Patrons are strongly encouraged to call ahead for reservations, or they risk not getting a seat. From North Carolina Stage Company’s Winner of the Tony Award for Best production of “Hamlet.” Play, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern is considered a 20th century classic. The New York Times called it “a most re- Sponsors: North Carolina Stage markable play. Very funny. Very brilliant. Company is grateful for the support of Very chilling.” In 2007, TIME Magazine season sponsors The Colorful Palate, declared Tom Stoppard one of the “100 Greenlife Grocery, Imaging Technolo- Most Influential People in the World,” gies, Treadshots Photography, and the calling him “the playwright who dares North Carolina Arts Council. Our ticket to expect wit and sophistication from his sponsor is The Chocolate Fetish, and audiences.” concessions are provided by Izzy’s Coffee Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Den and Sugar Momma’s Cookies. Dead is directed by Producing Director Angie Flynn-McIver, who most recently directed Driving Miss Daisy for NC If Stage. The title roles are played by Wil- You North Carolina Stage Com- lie Repoley and Hans Meyer. Repoley Go pany presents Tom Stoppard’s has performed frequently in Asheville comedy Rosencrantz and as well as at Flat Rock Playhouse, and at Guildenstern Are Dead. the North Carolina Shakespeare Festival. February 18 through March 8, 2009. Meyer is better known in Asheville as a Wednesdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., director, having recently directed Doubt, Sundays at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 19 is A Parable and It’s a Wonderful Life: A Happy-Hour-and-a-Half Thursday, featur- Live Radio Play for NC Stage. ing complimentary beer, wine, and appetiz- Rounding out the cast are some ers. Sponsored by Colorful Palate Catering. established local actors including Chris Tickets are $16-$26; ticket price varies by Allison, Michael MacCauley, Vivian date. Call (828) 239-0263 or visit www. Smith, and Joe Sturgeon. Making his NC ncstage.org for tickets. Stage debut is R. Scott Williams, who may be known to viewers from his role on the acclaimed HBO series “The Wire.” North Carolina Stage Company is North Carolina Stage Company performs in a 99-seat theatre in downtown Ashe- Asheville’s professional theatre, named ville. Entrance is at 15 Stage Lane, off WNC’s Best Local Stage Company for of Walnut St., one block off Haywood St., three years in a row by readers of the next to the Rankin Ave. parking garage. Mountain Xpress.

16 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Performance Scottish Quintet The Tannahill Weavers Perform Dynamic Traditional Celtic Music

ne of Scot- land’s premier traditional Obands, The Tan- nahill Weavers’ diverse repertoire spans the centuries with fire-driven instrumentals, topical songs, and original ballads and lullabies. Over the years, “The Tan- nies” have been trailblazers for Scottish music, and their tight harmonies and powerful, inventive arrangements have won them fans from beyond the folk and “These guys are a bunch of Celtic music scenes. heroes every time they go on Since their first visit to the United States in 1981, The tour in the States.” Tannahill Weavers have be- ~ Garrison Keillor, come firmly established as one “A Prairie Home Companion” of the premier groups on the concert stage: from reflective ballads to foot-stomping reels and jigs, the variety and range and viola player John Martin is one of of material they perform are matched the most active members of the Scottish only by their enthusiasm and lively traditional music scene. Colin Melville, Celtic spirits. from Fort William, Scotland, is one of Born of a session in Paisley, Scot- the country’s most exciting young pipers, land and named for the town’s historic playing highland bagpipes, Scottish small weaving industry and local poet laureate pipes, and whistles for “The Tannies”. Robert Tannahill, the group has made an The Tannahill Weavers’ Asheville international name for its special brand performance is made possible by Perfor- of Scottish music, blending the beauty of mance Sponsors Bill & Jerry McAninch, traditional melodies with the power of and by Celtic Series Sponsors Arby’s/The modern rhythms. As the Winnipeg Free Winning Team and BB&T, with ad- Press noted, “The Tannahill Weavers ditional support from media sponsor - properly harnessed - could probably WNCW 88.7 fm. power an entire city for a year... The music may be old time Celtic, but the drive and enthusiasm are akin to straight ahead rock and roll.” If Band member Roy Gullane, born You Scotland’s The Tannahill in Glasgow, is one of the two longest Go Weavers brings their dynamic, serving members of the group as guitarist traditional Celtic music to and lead vocalist. Also born in Glasgow, Asheville. Mainstage Celtic Phil Smilie, the other original member Series. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack along with Gullane, plays flute, bodhran Place. February 7 at 8 p.m. and whistles, and sings harmony vocals. Tickets: Regular $28; Seniors $26; Students Leslie Wilson plays guitar, bou- $23; Student Rush day-of-the-show (with zouki, keyboards and bass pedals, and is valid ID) $10. with the group once again after being a Tickets/Info: (828) 257-4530 or online at member in the early 1980s. Fiddle, cello, www.dwtheatre.com.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS FINE ART

Kent Paulette, by Bryan Paiement aka Derfla

reen Life Grocery is currently exhibiting the works of Kent Paulette, aka Derfla. Kent picked up the name Alfred in a past French class, flipped Git and morphed into Derfla, his artistic alias. His paintings will be displayed at Green Life until the end of February. He credits Green Life Grocery with the sense of community that is conducive to an artist and his audience. “Holland Gently” by Kent Paulette Like many teenagers, Derfla took to his art classes in high school, which allowed him the freedom to explore his creativity, but he never pursued an art education. He began painting eight years ago and his early paintings were inspired mainly by the musicians he admired at the time. In earlier works, Derfla at- tempted to control every aspect of his pieces; a process he quickly learned did not work for him. As he Kent Paulette, “Bubble Slip, grew as an artist, he left so-called fine artist Bubble Cast” mistakes in the painting as a tool for improvement. “I try to apply the paint without hesitation or indecisiveness, and without reacting to what has already been painted. In that all- important moment when the paint touches the canvas, I tend to look away, allowing myself to get lost in it. These measures help to fend off the frustration and anxiety that may arise from any lingering tendency to control the outcome.” “Pandas” by Kent Paulette It is this ability to “let go” of control of his paintings that blends so well with his inspiration from nature, the pinnacle of unpre- dictability. Derfla’s paintings are comprised of thick-textured oils and a palette knife and he has 400 paintings to his credit. “From the start of this journey I’ve opted out of symbolism, instead searching for a more direct way to express one core idea. This “London” by Kent Paulette has led me to give control over to a process that allows the painting to the citizens of Asheville, a city known for come to life organically. The painting is its escalating art scene. able to occur as an uninterrupted event subject to the whims of chance.” Derfla works out of a studio in his If home about twenty minutes southeast u The exhibit at Green Life of Boone, NC. His studio overlooks the Yo Grocery will end on February mountains, instant inspiration for a man Go 6, but Derfla will continue to driven by nature. He was advised by search for galleries around the friends that although Boone and Hickory region to showcase his work. You can were laudable venues for his work, his also view Derfla’s paintings at www.derfla. paintings would be better appreciated by tv/greenlifepress.htm.

18 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Fine Art

Simply Love Sculptures by Meet Woodworker North Carolina Artist Jay M. Rotberg Matt Zettl at ICKWIRE fine his studio. His art reflects his convey sincere Grovewood Gallery art/folk art “. . .where beliefs, interests, and loves sentiments with the heart finds art” — the closeness of family and artful gifts from In conjunction with the 22nd celebrates Valen- the power of faith. WICKWIRE. Annual Grove Park Inn Arts and tine’s Day, Satur- His original sculptures Select special, Crafts Conference, February 20-22, day, February 14, are cast in bronze and then handmade cards Grovewood Gallery will be host- Wwith Images of Love — ex- recast using bonded resins and for the season; ing a meet and greet with Greene & press your heart! Choose finished in a verdigris patina. His decide on original Greene inspired woodworker Mat- from a wide selection of new metal pieces in his Simply paintings and thew Zettl. North Carolina artist Jay Love collection are cast directly American hand- Zettl’s pieces that will be on M. Rotberg’s Simply Love from his wax models and finished made craft as well display in Grovewood’s upstairs sculptures, in pewter and with a pewter patina. as exquisite jew- furniture gallery will range from tra- verdigris finishes. The col- With simplicity and quiet dignity, elry creations by ditional Greene & Greene influence lection depicts the delightful Jay’s creations capture comfort in a local, regional and to designs that he considers evolu- itineraries of relationships. hug, depict abandon and joy, con- national artists. tions of the style. Brothers Charles Jay M. Rotberg’s varied vey compassion and understanding, and Henry Greene were American life has ranged from work in and inspire strength and hope. His architects that are widely considered institutions for the handi- daughter Debra Rotberg Tuggle, with to have brought high-art aesthetics capped to teaching at Boston a BFA from the University of Geor- If and exquisite craftsmanship to the University and the Univer- gia specializing in photography and u Jay Rotberg and Debra American Arts and Crafts Movement sity of Miami. In 1989, he computer graphics and having work Yo Rotberg Tuggle are proudly in the early part of the 20th century. said, “I’m going to sculpt experience with major digital design Go represented by WICKWIRE Zettl has been woodworking for full time,” and so he did. corporations, has become a regular fine art/folk art, 330 N. Main, over 30 years; his pieces demonstrate He left university life, contributor to her father’s Simply Hendersonville, NC. Open 7 days, the dedication to fine craftsmanship, moved to North Caro- Love collection. (828) 692-6222, email wickwire@bellsouth. thoughtful consideration of propor- lina, and, in 1997 opened In February and year ‘round, net or visit www.wickwireartgallery.com. tion, and sensitivity in design that made Greene & Greene the ultimate American designers in the arts and crafts tradition. Folk Art Center Hosts Arrowmont: If You Grovewood Gallery, o 111 Grovewood Road A Creative Continuum G in Asheville. For more information call (828) 253-7651 or visit www.grove- rrowmont School is a nationally wood.com. recognized center of contemporary craft education located in Gatlinburg, TN. The school donated to the permanent collection by offers one-week, two-week and the artist instructors. The traveling exhi- weekend workshops in various bition of contemporary artworks expands Acraft media. Arrowmont’s educational outreach and Arrowmont has a rich history dating helps fulfill its mission of enriching lives back to 1912 as the Pi Beta Phi Settle- through art. ment School, established by the national women’s fraternity. The school’s goal was to bring education, healthcare and Helen Worrall economic development to the Southern If Appalachians. You On display through April 19 Today, Arrowmont’s reputation Go in the Folk Art Center’s Main as a premier arts school is based on the Gallery is A Creative Con- national and international recognition tinuum: The New Frontier of received by its instructors. A Creative Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts Permanent Collection. Continuum celebrates their contributions to the school and the craft community. The Folk Art Center, headquarters of the Binh Pho All the pieces in the exhibition have been Southern Highland Craft Guild, is a fitting venue for the exhibition. Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts has been an educational center member of the Southern Highland The Southern Highland Craft Guild is a non-profit, educational organization established Craft Guild since 1960. in 1930 to bring together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the The Folk Art Center is located at milepost benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation. 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in east The Folk Art Center is located at Milepost 382 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, just north of the Asheville. For more information, visit www. craftguild.org or call (828) 298-7928. Hwy 70 entrance in east Asheville, NC. Sandra J. Blain

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 19 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Asheville Shops

CD’s, books, Introducing The Old Fort Store clothing, jewelry here’s a lot of talk about buying and Pisgah Yarn & Die Company have been supply, candles, local but when it comes down to in the neighborhood for decades. Each has socks, yarns, is it has been difficult to practice sold products direct to the public from their jewelry, hand- this noble virtue. When we shop manufacturing plants. Both still offer direct crafts, art, novel- for things we want to find the best sales for bulk buyers — but when someone ty gifts, pottery, T functional wood prices, a wide selection of items, convenient needs a few pair of socks or a couple cones parking, and more. of yarn they can conveniently find it here. products like Pinwilz™ Company has launched a new The third manufacturer in The Old bowls, cutting partnership with local manufacturers in Old Fort Store is Pinwilz line of candles; But- boards, and letter openers, hand poured Fort. Pinwilz is primarily terfly Blends,™ Soy Jar soaps and lotions, and so much more. a retail operation. We offer candles, and Soy melting If you have a product or a craft that you shopping in the store, on- Pinwilz™ Company tarts. think would sell in Pinwilz we want to hear line, mail-order, and phone 48 East Main Street Catawba Vale Café from you. At Pinwilz and TAAS Gallery we orders. We are open 5 days Downtown Old Fort, NC next door adds great atmo- work with nearly 70 different handcrafters. a week and have plenty of sphere. You can shop and Eventually, products that are manufactured parking. (828) 668-1070 grab a bite to eat all at the here may be sold in Hollywood, California, Both Parker Hosiery www.pinwilz.com same place. We have music or Hong Kong, China.

Downtown Asheville

Pack Square

Get on the Map Contact Byron Belzak (828) 768-5600 No Contract - Special Rates - In Print and Online - www.downtownasheville.com A community news source for citizens, businesses, and grassroots organizations that value and love Downtown Asheville.

www.artasheville.com

www.wnctraveler.com

20 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Asheville Shops

CD’s, books, clothing, jewelry here’s a lot of talk about buying and Pisgah Yarn & Die Company have been supply, candles, local but when it comes down to in the neighborhood for decades. Each has socks, yarns, is it has been difficult to practice sold products direct to the public from their jewelry, hand- this noble virtue. When we shop manufacturing plants. Both still offer direct crafts, art, novel- for things we want to find the best sales for bulk buyers — but when someone ty gifts, pottery, prices, a wide selection of items, convenient needs a few pair of socks or a couple cones functional wood parking, and more. of yarn they can conveniently find it here. products like Pinwilz™ Company has launched a new The third manufacturer in The Old bowls, cutting partnership with local manufacturers in Old Fort Store is Pinwilz line of candles; But- boards, and letter openers, hand poured Fort. Pinwilz is primarily terfly Blends,™ Soy Jar soaps and lotions, and so much more. a retail operation. We offer candles, and Soy melting If you have a product or a craft that you shopping in the store, on- tarts. think would sell in Pinwilz we want to hear line, mail-order, and phone Catawba Vale Café from you. At Pinwilz and TAAS Gallery we orders. We are open 5 days next door adds great atmo- work with nearly 70 different handcrafters. a week and have plenty of sphere. You can shop and Eventually, products that are manufactured parking. grab a bite to eat all at the here may be sold in Hollywood, California, Both Parker Hosiery same place. We have music or Hong Kong, China.

Downtown Asheville 7

Pack Square 32

12 15

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE BOOKS My Anti-Valentine by H. Byron Ballard ation “Red Woman With Backward Eyes” (my favorite of Moore’s titles) and “Spirit Books For The Heart-Encrusted Season Voices of Bones.” Both are excellent examples of wordsmithery and the raw here have been heart-shaped boxes And one more from Hurston power of her use of the simplest phrase February 2009 of bad chocolates in the stores — “Mules and Men” a folklorist’s and will set you back on your heels. Start with since 12/26. Everywhere historian’s dream. All three of these “Red Woman” if you haven’t yet and save Thursday, February 5 at 7 p.m. “Spirit Voices” when you are in need of a Gus Jacacci presents America Awake! one looks, the world is books are available now, T glowing pink and red with though most had fallen out of forging of your own. Friday, February 6 at 7 p.m. tiny hearts. I’m already sick of it. print. Get some decent chocolate and then Simone Lipscomb discusses and signs cop- get a real treat — a book by a woman au- ies of her book, Sharks on my Fin Tips. So, in the spirit of anti-Val- I love reading Luisah entines, let’s look at some books Teish and seeing her perform thor who knows her own heart and maybe Saturday, February 7 at 7 p.m. that are not about romance or her beautiful work. She has yours, as well. Now that’s true love. Jack Riggs reads from and signs his second novel, The Fireman’s Wife. self-help or any of that palaver. allowed average Americans In the midst of Black History to enter into the world of Byron Ballard, Asheville’s Village Witch Thursday, February 12 at 7 p.m. month and with an eye toward African religion in a way that http://blogs.citizen-times.com/blogs/ Executive coach Doug Silsbee reads from Women’s History in March, is both playful and powerful. index.php?blog=18 and signs his latest book, Presence-Based Coaching: Cultivating Self-Generative here are some delicious books My introduction to her work Leaders through Mind, Body and Heart. by women authors. Not cook- was “Jambalaya: The Natural books, not bodice-rippers, Woman’s Book of Personal Byron Ballard is a bookseller, organic Friday, February 13 at 5:30 p.m. not how-to tomes on healthy Charms and Practical Rituals.” A pre-Valentine’s Day wine tasting with host gardener and a beekeeper. Her writings have the Wine Guy. Tickets are $10 and include lifestyles. If you’re feeling like It is an important work in the appeared in local and national print and a discount on a selection of wine guides. starting a revolution, put on mostly Eurocentric canon of electronic media. She blogs for the Asheville your big boots and read on. folk magic and religion and it is Citizen-Times as “the Village Witch.” Thursday, February 19 at 7 p.m. If you haven’t read Zora dramatic and terribly useful. As River Guerguerian gives a fascinating talk and demo on music for meditation. Neale Hurston, I must ask — a person who practices an Ap- what are you waiting for? She’s palachian hoodoo, I’ve always Friday, February 20 at 7 p.m. one of the women of the Harlem enjoyed comparing notes with Author John Jeter will read from and sign Renaissance who wrote fiction other folk religions, so I loved Let Us Put an End his debut novel, The Plunder Room. and memoir and recorded folk- Teish early on. Check out her to All Social Stresses Saturday, February 21 at 7 p.m. lore and folk religious practices. website at leisahteish.com Lavinia Plonka, presents her unique new The book that’s always recom- The next two women Let us put an end to all social stresses cookbook, Playing in the Kitchen. mended first is “Their Eyes Were are local women of color Let us be honest with each other Sunday, February 22 at 3 p.m. Watching God” but I want you — a range of cafe au lait Without fear of rejection or resentment Nan Watkins and Thomas Rain Crowe to start with “Tell My Horse.” — for whom I have so much Let us honor each other’s passions present Rare Birds: Conversations with It’s a travelogue. Sort of. This respect and affection. The first Let us treasures each other’s art Legends of Jazz and Classical Music. book is a memoir, too, but its is Glenis Redmond — a poet, Thursday, February 26 at 7 p.m. strength and durability lie in the performer, teacher and god- Let us lay the ego down upon the earth Author Marie Bartlett and storyteller fact that it’s an anthropologi- dess. I first knew Glenis’s work Let us swim the sea out beyond jealousy RoseLynn Katz will present The Frontier cal work that revolves around through her performances — fi- Let us discover each other deep in the Nursing Service: America’s First Rural the Afro-Caribbean religion ery, wise, expert. I picked up forest free Nurse-Midwife Service and School. Voudon. In the Thirties, Hur- “Backbone” and loved the fam- Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m. ston went to Jamaica and Haiti ily history filtered through the Let us never worry again Jefferson Bass presents its latest Body and her accounts of initiatory life of its poet-daughter. I had Let us be here for each other Farm thriller, Bones of Betrayal. practice and ritual are fascinat- the distinct pleasure of welcom- Without concern of being owed Saturday, February 28 at 7:00 p.m. ing and important. She writes in ing Glenis to the bookstore in Let us break free of anxiety Anne Morrison Welsh reads from her pow- a period style — not as a scholar December and her book “Under Let us live forever together perfectly erful memoir, Held in the Light: Norman but as a curious, intelligent the Sun” came into my eager Morrison’s Sacrifice for Peace and His woman exploring her world and grasp. The chief joy of follow- Family’s Journey of Healing. Let us open our arms when another her roots. ing a writer’s work throughout needs to cry You should also read “Their a career is the chance to see the Let us open our minds when another 55 Haywood St. Eyes Were Watching God,” which work and the artist expand her needs to laugh 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 may be her strongest work of or his vision, to see with new Let us open our hearts, breathe deep, Hours: Mon-Thurs, 8am-9pm fiction. Her main character is an and other eyes. Both books and fall in Fri & Sat, 8am-10pm; Sun, 8am-7pm amazingly strong woman of color are excellent and the Glenis in named Janie Crawford and Janie’s “Under the Sun” has become Let us release all negativity life is chronicled even at its most an alchemist. Let us know the spirit purely bleak and disappointing. But Last, but certainly not Without fret of being labeled there is a rich joy here, too, and least, is my sister-reviewer at Let us provide the homeless homes a lesson for all women about the this magazine, MariJo Moore. Let us show the heartless soul notion of empowerment and for I want to point you to two of readers about what constitutes Moore’s long list of published Let us live with grace and ease a happy ending. The dialect can works and these are two older Let us love true be a little off-putting so give ones. Moore is a poet, memoir- Let us surrender to the dream yourself time to enter into it. It ist, fiction writer and publisher also helps to read it aloud. and I submit for your consider- © 2008 Justin Blackburn

22 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE poetry Realizing the mysteri- and makes sense to the Outfoxing Coyote ous importance of shape A sacred fury... heart, the one of his shifting, this talented an uncommon madness... mother’s breath, comes ne day last autumn, when I teachings, we become the target of coyote's writer takes readers into alive in the dawning the worlds of Coyotesse, darkness that has be- opened a book written by one backward "medicine.” We con ourselves. 2 of my favorite authors, Rainer It takes strong, ancient, feminine power to Turquoise Woman, Deer come his life.” Maria Rilke, the following outfox this trickster. In the poem “Sleeping Woman, Warrior Wom- Outfoxing Coyote O statement, highlighted long ago, Woman,” poetess Dunn reveals the subtle an, and Eagle Woman. is now in my collection touched me deeply as always: but amazing feat of outwitting the coyote: Through this shifting we a scattering of birds... of favorites and I pulled realize the importance of “For verses are not, as people it from the shelf today, We remember the silence finding answers to the fol- by MariJo Moore catching the small moun- imagine, simply feelings.... they are in our dreams. lowing: How can we know experiences. For the sake of a single tain flowers I had added The vast landscape of trees our people unless we know as they fell from the pages. verse, one must see many cities, as they knew? See as they saw? Become as many people, and things, one must shimmering from the voices I settled on the poem “Deer Hunter,” in that are carried upon the wind. they were? Simply put, we can't. Carolyn's which Dunn reveals candidly the mystical understand animals, must feel how writings give us clues how to do so, how birds fly, and know the gesture which I see the trick of daylight mixture of confusion, love, desire, shame, to outfox the trickster in ourselves, how to and awakenings. small flowers make when they open and wonder at the voice inside see with our eyes closed. in the morning.” 1 what I won’t do for love “...She was trying to warn As I thumbed though The Note- – to move beyond the shadow me — and I looked into her eyes, perhaps now I can save myself... books of Malte Laurids Brigge leaves, of myself. The words sang softly rose petals, and tiny flowers fell from the I look to the ground, and see my Speaking the enemy’s language from the page to feet, hooves covered with dust, and inside. These special memories of daily as my own I take back the things walks are additions I have always put my mind and settled stained with blood, pours from the of my grandmothers. open wound, of my breasts, where it inside cherished books; reminders that in my heart… although I am growing spiritually, I need Her lace curtains, china cups and dries, and forms red stones, shining, pieces of clear smoky quartz and I shape them into a necklace, of to remember always how far I have come 3 and what I have survived. from a mountain in Tennessee I remember being moved by “Tahlon deep crimson, nearly black...” called Sleeping Woman. Later that afternoon, I began reading of the Bird Clan,” which Dunn com- 1 posed for her son. The words sang softly The Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge Outfoxing Coyote, a collection of poetry She slept beside me in flower petals © 1910 Rainer Maria Rilke by Creek/Cherokee/Seminole writer Car- strewn about in wonder from the page to my mind and settled olyn Dunn, and realized that she has in- under a blanket of Seven Stars. in my heart, never missing an imagery- 2, 3 Outfoxing Coyote, © 2002 Carolyn Dunn deed "experienced" life in full. Outfoxing filled, mellifluous beat, reminding me Coyote is a treasure of a woman's desires, She moves in darkness across my life that we Cherokee are children of the and knowing what all women know MariJo Moore is the author of a dozen disappointments, accomplishments, loves, stars, just as we know that stars are birds. books including three books of poetry: and survival. Weaving ancestral ideas and I speak his language, that of my “Tahlon of the Bird Clan, The conqueror but in his language Spirit Voices of Bones, Confessions of a stories into modern day vernacular, she One Who Drags It, the singing voice Madwoman (now available on CD), and the has created a magnificent work. I tell our women stories. of stars and remembrance and matter forthcoming Poets Inhale The Darkness The coyote is considered by many Sleeping Woman, and vision, the one of the heart and Artists Breathe. www.marijomoore.com Indian nations to be the trickster, the she has arisen. stones of stars in the sky, the one who master magician who uses his/her pow- returns, the one who stays, the boy ers didactically. But sometimes, when we Outfoxing Coyote who came home and remained, the The winners of Rapid River’s poetry contest fail to see our own humanness in these © 2002 Carolyn Dunn one who speaks words and sounds will be announced in the March 2009 issue.

Chris Austin Songwriting Contest The contest recognizes winners in four categories – country, bluegrass, gospel and general. First place winners in each category receive: a performance on the Cabin Stage at MerleFest 2009, an acoustic guitar, a check for $300, and more. This year’s deadline for submissions is February 18, 2009. To be eligible to enter, a songwriter must not derive more than 50% of his or her total income from songwriting or music publishing. For additional information call the $45 For All 4 Books! contest hotline at 1-800-799-3838 (Includes autograph and S&H) or Laurie Hayes, CASC Coordina- To order call Jaileen at (828) 488-8216 tor: 336-838-6158, laurie.hayes@ www.tictocproductions.com wilkescc.edu. Order MoonBow and Meek-El online at Amazon.com, Alibris.com, and BarnesAndNoble.com

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE noteworthy Birthed from Scorched Hearts: UpBeat! Concert at Black Women Respond to War Mountain Center for the Arts

compiled and edited by MariJo Moore ed June is a musical col- laboration from Ashe- ville, NC. With band n this new anthology, the reviewed by Tom Kerr members Will Staughan, phenomenon of war – as John Cloyd Miller and experienced, observed, R Natalya Weinstein, it brings and defined by award- and why they endured together three contrasting but Iwinning women writers the grim realities of war. complementary musicians in a – is passionately exposed, Readers hear from those beautifully distilled form. insightfully explored, and who experienced the Will Straughan, who per- skillfully interrogated with bombing of Dresden, the formed with the Emma Gibbs wisdom, courage, and un- persecutions of fascist Band from 1996 to 2004, is a apologetic honesty. dictators, the atrocities per- talented multi-instrumentalist, Editor MariJo Moore petuated by secret police, songwriter and singer with an Red June band – who is also one of the and the violent insanity of instantly recognizable vocal style more than 60 women who previously gentle friends and approach. He is a sought-after session contributed pieces to this and family members who player, and currently works with Eliza anthology – explains in the introduction returned home traumatized from combat. f Lynn and Lance Mills, among others. I her motivation for creating Birthed from One poem gives voice to a woman giving The February UpBeat! John Cloyd Miller is a versatile You Scorched Hearts: birth while incarcerated; another grieves o Musical Heritage 4th Friday the loss of a battle against cancer. singer/songwriter as well, concentrating G Concert Series at the Black “These writings will go deep into Along the way, these women impart largely on bluegrass music for the past Mountain Center for the readers’ psyches, past the nonverbal wisdom to help teach us how to defang several years in the band Lo-Fi Break- Arts will be Friday, February 27, at consent caused by desensitization, the tendency for war from within our in- down. His vocal and instrumental style 7:30 p.m., featuring Red June. to reawaken and bring to the surface dividual and collective DNA. They show is soulful and genuine with an unmistak- The Center is located at 225 W. State the innate realization that we are all how a war is different from a battle – how ably authentic old-time flavor. Street in the old City Hall. Admission is involved in the historical and recent wars are never isolated to the battlefield Natalya Weinstein plays almost any a $10 donation at the door. For more in- events concerning war; that no one trenches or to the blood that is shed be- style of fiddle or violin and is a solid formation, contact (828) 669-0930 or visit is insulated from these issues; that tween soldiers. harmony singer. She is an accomplished www.BlackMountainArts.org. everyone has experienced the realities War is not merely the absence of instructor in the Asheville area, training of war in some way.” peace, and peace will never be thoroughly young fiddlers and violinists. Her experi- Women often have different perspec- experienced by only burying the hatchet ence includes regular performances with More information about this tives of war than men, so Moore asked and the gun. Every war rises up from a Polecat Creek and Lo-Fi Breakdown, talented trio can be found at women writers from across the world to foundation of prerequisite lies, prejudices, as well as recording session player for www.myspace.com/redjunemusic consider war while pondering this ques- and myths that are necessary to justify un- several albums. tion: “If you could converse with a woman speakable acts of inhumanity. These writ- – any woman living or deceased – who suf- ers – as word warriors – help to debunk fered from war, what would you ask?” the vital immoral premise of war and slay Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a smArt Film Screening of Their responses, in both poetry and its cruel hype and blatant hypocrisy. prose, comprise this anthology. Some de- Birthed from Scorched Hearts will by Kim Zdanowicz scribe public battles or ideological warfare; make some readers feel uncomfortably Running Fence others delve into the nature of private guilty or outright ignorant. But at the internal conflicts and personal fights to same time, those readers are offered in- he Asheville Art Museum Maysles, this film speaks to Christo and recover from loss. Readers hear from clusion, acceptance, compassion, forgive- invites you celebrate Valentine’s Jeanne-Claude’s powerful transforma- contributors including Amy Goodman ness, enlightenment, and an opportunity Day afternoon enjoying a tive effects on community. of Democracy Now!; Paula Gunn Allen, for positive transformation. unique film screening of Run- Join us for the film screening of author of the groundbreaking book The All readers will be given a unique ning Fence on Saturday, Febru- Running Fence and get inspired by a Sacred Hoop: Recovering the Feminine in T interpretation of history, an invaluable ary 14 at 2 p.m. in the Museum’s Studio. truly amazing artistic team. This film American Indian Traditions; and Matilde education, and the rare opportunity to This film documents the multi-year screening is free with Museum Mem- Urrutia, a writer, singer, and political activ- question the current human condition process of the creation of Christo and bership or admission. ist who was the inspiration for many of with a view to improve it for the benefit Jeanne-Claude’s While you’re poet Pablo Neruda’s greatest works. and betterment of all. Running Fence, at the Museum, From the mythical Medusa to the Sonoma and check out the exhi- circa 60 CE Celtic warrior Boudicca Marin Counties, bition Christo and – and from Native American survivors to Tom Kerr is a freelance writer based in California, a 24- Jeanne-Claude: Harriet Tubman – women describe how Asheville, NC. mile long, 18-foot Projects and then high fabric “fence” take a self-guided which spanned tour of the Christo two counties in and Jeanne-Claude California. Community Beautifully Poster Installation writers wanted photographed by Project in the win- To cover theatre, the arts, events and other interesting things. Please respond award-winning dows of businesses by email with sample writings to [email protected] documentary Running Fence, photo by Wolfgang Volz. around town. filmmaker Albert © Christo and Jeanne-Claude.

24 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 Reel Take Reviewers: For the latest reviews, Chip Kaufmann is a film historian who theater info and also shares his love of classical music as , visit a program host on WCQS-FM radio. movie show times www.rapidrivermagazine.com Michelle Keenan is a long time student of film, a believer in the magic of movies and a fundraiser for public radio. ∑∑∑∑∑ - Fantastic Sierra Bicking, our Teen Reviewer, ∑∑∑∑ - Pretty darn good prefers movies that show teenagers as brilliant and brave. ∑∑∑ - Has some good points ∑∑ - The previews lied ∑ - Only if you must Questions/Comments? M- Forget entirely You can email Chip or Michelle at [email protected]

Defiance ∑∑∑∑ in his natural With his job hinging in the balance, Let The Right One In Short Take: A remarkable speaking voice, Harvey flies to England to attend his ∑∑∑∑1/2 and little known story the entire cast of daughter’s wedding. Within 24 hours, Defiance speaks in Harvey misses his plane, loses his job and Short Take: A most unusual coming- of Jewish survival and of-age flick from Sweden that just community during WWII. appropriate accent, learns that his daughter wants her step- happens to be about a vampire. some (especially father to walk her down the aisle. Facing Reel Take: While not a Daniel Craig) even the reality of his failure as a father and cinematic masterpiece a performing scenes his decreasing value in the commercial la Shindler’s List, Ed- in Russian. The marketplace, he meets Kate. Accustomed ward Zwick’s Defiance intention by the to disappointment, she is a woman with is a worthy film which filmmakers was to thick defensive walls and no expecta- deserves to be known by Daniel Craig as Tuvia Bielski and make them more tions. As they walk and talk, her armor both Jews and gentiles as Liev Schreiber as Zus Bielski in authentic and, in crumbles and Harvey realizes this is his a powerful story of Jewish “Defiance.” doing so, bring us last chance at getting it [all] right. survival during World more deeply into As Harvey and Kate’s story unfolds War II. As movie goers, we are accus- their characters. It works. The supporting so do the sub-stories, the best of which is tomed to seeing the Jewish experience cast, including an all grown up Jamie Bell between Kate’s mother (Eileen Atkins) and of WWII portrayed quite differently than (Billy Elliott), Shamon Haretz, and Mark her new, ever barbecuing, Polish neighbor. what we see in Defiance. Feurstein are excellent. Her mother, the quintessential dejected Lina Leandersson as Eli in “Let The The story starts off in 1941 several From the comfort of our warm chairs, woman whose husband left her for his Right One In.” months after the Nazi invasion of the So- the most striking thing about Defiance is young secretary, peers at her neighbor viet Union had turned the Belarus town that any of them survived. But perhaps from behind curtains and suspects him Reel Take: We don’t often review horror of Nowogrodek into a Jewish Ghetto. On the single most important element of the of murder. It’s a fun sub-plot and adds a movies in Rapid River. For the most part December 7, 1941 four brothers from the story for me was that, although they were pleasant levity to the goings on. they are tailor made for a specific target au- Bielski family fled to the forest after their prey to horrific circumstances, the Bielski Despite a difference in age and height; dience of young men and the women fool- parents and other family members were brothers and the more than 1200 people in he much older and she much taller, Hoff- ish enough to go to them. They aren’t very killed during an attack on Nowogrodek. the forest with them were not victims. man and Thompson have a unique chem- good, and they aren’t meant to be, which Tuvia, Zus, Aseal and Aron decided explains their rapid box office decline after Rated R for violence and language. istry. Perhaps it’s more warm affection than they would stay in the forest in order to za-za zing, but it’s chemistry no less. While the opening weekend. survive. They were soon joined by other Review by Michelle Keenan a bit stagy in her younger days, Thomp- Let the Right One In is in a totally neighbors and, as word quietly spread, son has always seemed at ease in her roles. different category. While watching it, I was more and more people came to the forest Last Chance Harvey ∑∑∑1/2 Hoffman on the other hand (a method reminded of Vampyr, another Scandina- seeking protection and refuge with the Short Take: Two lonely people find actor by study) seems to have grown into vian vampire film from over 70 years ago. Bielski Brothers. Tuvia Bielski (Daniel genuine companionship and under- a more relaxed, organic style of acting in The story, the performances, and above all Craig), the leader of the refugee commu- standing when they befriend each other. recent years and the result is delightful. the direction, elevate Let the Right One nity took everyone in, claiming that, “our Reel Take: Last Chance Harvey isn’t In into the realm of art without sacrificing survival will be our revenge.” Rated PG-13 for brief strong language. the entertainment possibilities, rather like Even more impressive than the sheer a great movie, but it’s a charming and Review by Michelle Keenan understated little film. The story is pleas- Twilight or Interview with the Vampire if tenacity to escape the Nazis is how they directed by Ingmar Bergman. live. The two eldest Bielski brothers, ant but nothing really new. What makes this story work is the ease and chemistry The story of a lonely, bullied school- Tuvia and Zus (Liev Schreiber), share a boy who finds a companion in a young combative relationship; Tuvia is the more between its two stars, Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson. girl, who is not what she seems, would peaceful brother while Zus the more have been right up Bergman’s alley. That’s vengeful. As such, Zus leads a group of Dustin Hoffman is Harvey Shine, a jingle writer by day and a jazz piano the psychological side of the film which is partisans that would rather fight than beautifully handled by director Thomas hide. However, whether in the woods or player at heart. He’s a dinosaur in his field and an outsider to his somewhat Alfredson. Then there’s the horrific ele- fighting as partisans, ugly acts were comments of the story which are masterfully mitted to survive. Finally, and perhaps estranged family. Emma Thompson is Kate Walker, a customer service worker done and even caught an old, jaded horror most interestingly, a civilized community film fan like myself by surprise. had to be established in order to help for Heathrow International Airport. She’s a woman of a certain age with an over- After viewing this movie, I felt them survive among themselves. absolutely exhilarated. Intelligent horror Unlike Valkyrie, which probably did bearing mother and friends perpetually Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson concerned about her singleton status. not suffer in having Tom Cruise speak star in “Last Chance Harvey.” ‘Movies’ continued on pg 26

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 25 It’s as if director Sam Mendes (Amer- thank you sense of humor that it contained. ican Beauty), Winslet and co-star Di turns into a It was precisely that sense of humor is so rare these days (no surprise that this Caprio went out of their way to make the passionate, though that allowed me to thoroughly is a foreign film) and then to have it so anti-Titanic. That film was the ultimate secret affair enjoy The Spirit. Not only was it true beautifully realized (yes, it is beautiful) romantic movie while this one is defiantly with his to its comic book origins, but it wasn’t reminds me of what is possible within the opposite and most people who go to rescuer. afraid to poke fun at the whole graphic this genre if only the people involved see it as a sort of Titanic reunion are go- Michael novel/superhero sensibility, which has would kick it up a notch. ing to be very disappointed. (David become (with the exception of Iron This movie had a great run in Ashe- There’s nothing wrong with mak- Kross) is Man) way too serious of late. This an- ville for about a month, which is rare for ing a movie that’s a downer as most fascinated gered the core fan base which takes the a foreign film (especially one that didn’t dramas, by their very nature, are. It is by his mys- genre far too seriously. (Unfortunately play downtown), but it shows what qual- wrong though when the emotion behind terious lover with the success of The Dark Knight, ity and word-of-mouth can do. Keep a the drama is not believable and that’s Kate Winslet as Hanna (Kate we’ll likely be stuck with gloomy action lookout for when it comes out on DVD my number one problem with Revolu- Hanna Schmitz and Winslett) movies for some time to come.) for it deserves to be seen by fans of quality tionary Road (the title refers to a New David Kross as Michael and despite Rather than serve as an advisor or a in “The Reader.” horror films and by all those who profess England suburb address not anything their age co-director, as he has in the past, Frank that they love the movies. political). Winslet and Di Caprio spend difference Miller directed The Spirit outright. Since their time emoting in front of the camera, he falls in love with her. It’s an odd, in- that is the case, he deserves full credit for Rated R for bloody violence, brief nudity not acting. Acting enables one to see the tense relationship. We don’t see them talk making the movie as entertaining as it is. and language. characters underneath the skin, and that a lot, nor share the normal conversations Not only is the graphic black and white Review by Chip Kaufmann is something of lovers. Instead we see them read a lot. with a splash of color look down pat, but not achieved He reads to her and she loves it. After he Miller gets terrific performances from his Revolutionary Road ∑∑∑ in this film. reads to her, she favors him with love- cast who are clearly having a wonderful Short Take: This reunion of Titanic’s co- Subur- making. The reading is foreplay of sorts, time, especially Samuel L. Jackson and stars is overwrought, overblown, and ban angst but one very quickly sees that this is when Scarlett Johansson. overdone. movies are Hanna is most peaceful and vulnerable; Reel Take: their own she is a sponge soaking up every word. It’s a good thing that Kate sub-genre Their secret amour comes to an Winslet is happily married to Sam Mendes from the abrupt end when Michael arrives at her because in my opinion, Revolutionary Lana Turner flat to learn that Hanna is gone - no word, Road would be grounds for divorce. This vehicles of no note, just gone. He is heart broken but movie has been much anticipated and has the 1950s (where Revolutionary Road is life goes on. About a decade later Michael garnered a few awards along the way and set) to such American nightmare films is in law school. They are taken to ob- for the life of me I can’t see it. of the late 1960’s as The Swimmer with serve Nazi war crime trials. There, who is Samuel L. Jackson stars in Frank Burt Lancaster and The Arrangement on trial but none other than Hanna. The Miller’s “The Spirit.” with Kirk Douglas and Faye Dunaway. past he didn’t know about is revealed. In Theatre Directory The list continues all the way up to Ang observing the trials, he realizes another of The story, if you’re interested, con- Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company Lee’s The Ice Storm and Sam Mendes’ her secrets. What happens in the sub- cerns a former cop (Gabriel Macht) who Movieline (828) 254-1281 own American Beauty. sequent years is a whole new chapter in is killed and then brought back to life www.ashevillepizza.com That film, along with Road to Perdi- reading to her. with the ability to heal from any wound tion, shows that Mendes is a director of The film bounces back and forth in a manner of minutes. Unfortunately Beaucatcher Cinemas (Asheville) great promise, but Revolutionary Road between the unfolding story from young the doctor who made him that way (Jack- Movieline (828) 298-1234 is a promise unfulfilled. Blame the script Michael’s perspective and what hap- son) did the same to himself and now Biltmore Grande (which is not great) or the performances pened in the decades afterwards from seeks immortality. Throw in a former 1-800-FANDANGO #4010 (which are shrill and unconvincing), but older Michael’s (Ralph Fiennes) perspec- girlfriend (Eva Mendes) and an eager as- www.REGmovies.com ultimately the responsibility is Mendes’ tive. Winslet turns in a restrained, con- sistant (Johansson) and you’re off on a 90 for not seeing the problems and not doing fined, intense performance as Hanna and minute excursion into Pulp Fiction ter- Carmike 10 (Asheville) something about it. On the plus side any Berg and Fiennes are excellent as well. ritory. Although already gone from local Movieline (828) 298-4452 movie where the characters smoke Old The Reader is at once heart wrenching theatres, be sure and catch it on DVD. www.carmike.com Gold cigarettes can’t be all bad. and diffident. Perhaps those contradic- Carolina Cinemas Rated PG-13 for sequences of stylized Rated R for language and nudity/sexual tory elements are what make it a rather violence, sexual content and brief nudity. (828) 274-9500 content. fascinating character study. www.carolinacinemas.com Review by Chip Kaufmann Review by Chip Kaufmann Rated R for some scenes of sexuality and Cinebarre (Asheville) nudity. The Wrestler ∑∑∑∑ www.cinebarre.com The Reader ∑∑∑∑ Review by Michelle Keenan Short Take: Mickey Rourke makes a The Falls Theatre (Brevard) Short Take: In post World War II great comeback as an aging, former Movieline (828) 883-2200 Germany, a teenage boy has a secret The Spirit ∑∑∑∑ pro-wrestler scraping his way through Fine Arts Theatre (Asheville) affair with an older woman only to find Short Take: A Frank Miller derived the independent wrestling circuit. Movieline (828) 232-1536 out years later that she had many other movie that doesn’t take itself seriously Reel Take: Long fallen from grace, Mickey www.fineartstheatre.comm secrets of her own. and is much better for it. Rourke worked for nothing when Darren Flat Rock Theatre (Flat Rock) Reel Take: The Reader is a quietly in- Reel Take: I’m not a big fan of the works Aronofsky (Requiem for a Dream) offered Movieline (828) 697-2463 tense and intriguing film. In post-World of Frank Miller. I hated Sin City and to a him the chance to play Randy “The Ram” www.flatrockcinema.com War II Germany a teenage boy is stricken lesser degree 300. With that in mind, and Robinson in The Wrestler. Aronofsky ill and a woman helps him home. Months based on the preview, I was not looking fought for Rourke to get the part and it Four Seasons (Hendersonville) later, now recovered from scarlet fever, forward to The Spirit. The trailer went out was a battle well waged. Rourke is perfect Movieline (828) 693-8989 the boy makes his way back to the wom- of its way to resemble the graphic nature Smoky Mountain Cinema (Waynesville) an’s house to thank her. His intended of the other two films with no hint of the ‘Movies’ continued on next pg Movieline (828) 452-9091

26 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 26 in his comeback role. So perfect in fact and the winner is… that you can’t imagine why anyone else The Academy Awards was even considered. Cast are upon us! Select Best Supporting Actress Best Foreign Film Rourke plays an aging former pro- the winner in each Amy Adams, “Doubt”; Penelope “The Badder Meinhoff wrestler whose glory days as a head- Your category and win a Cruz, “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”; Complex,” Germany; liner in the Viola Davis, “Doubt”; Taraji P. “The Class,” France; 80’s are far $20 gift certificate to Henson, “The Curious Case of “Departures,” Japan; “Re- behind him. Mellow Mushroom! Benjamin Button”; Marisa Tomei, vanche,” Austria; “Waltz “The Ram” Vote! “The Wrestler.” With Bahsir,” Israel. ekes out an Academy Vote Prediction: Academy Vote Prediction: existence at Best Picture Best Actress minimum “The Curious Case Anne Hathaway, “Rachel Get- wage jobs of Benjamin Button,” ting Married”; Angelina Jolie, Your Vote: Your Vote: and perform- “Frost/Nixon,” “Milk,” “Changeling”; Melissa Leo, ing on the “The Reader,” “Slumdog “Frozen River”; Meryl Streep, independent Millionaire.” “Doubt”; Kate Winslet, “The Best Director Best Original Score Mickey Rourke in wrestling cir- Reader.” David Fincher, “The Curious “The Curious Case of “The Wrestler.” cuit. Though Academy Vote Prediction: Case of Benjamin Button”; Ron Benjamin Button,” Alex- barely mak- Academy Vote Prediction: Howard “Frost/Nixon”; Gus Van andre Desplat; “Defiance,” ing ends meet, he still lives for the Your Vote: Sant, “Milk”; Stephen Daldry, James Newton Howard; thrill of the ring and the fans. It’s also Your Vote: “The Reader”; Danny Boyle, “Milk,” Danny Elfman; the only thing he really knows and the “Slumdog Millionaire.” “Slumdog Millionaire,” only thing that keeps him from being A.R. Rahman; “WALL-E,” an utter and complete failure. Best Actor Academy Vote Prediction: Thomas Newman. After a heart attack forces him into Richard Jenkins, “The Best Supporting Actor Visitor”; Frank Langella, Josh Brolin, “Milk”; Robert Academy Vote Prediction: retirement, he hinges his hopes on Your Vote: salvaging his relationship with his es- “Frost/Nixon”; Sean Penn, Downey, Jr., “Tropic Thun- “Milk”; Brad Pitt, “The der”; Philip Seymour Hoffman, tranged daughter (Evan Rachel Wood) Your Vote: and a potential romance with a stripper Curious Case of Benjamin “Doubt”; Heath Ledger, “The (Marisa Tomei). He means well, but Button”; Mickey Rourke, Dark Knight”; Michael Shan- Best Animated Feature Film it’s a slippery slope for a man who isn’t “The Wrestler.” non, “Revolutionary Road.” “Bolt”; Kung Fu Panda”; “WALL-E.” good at relationships and life. Academy Vote Prediction: Academy Vote Prediction: Academy Vote Prediction: Your Name, Phone, Address The Wrestler is a fascinating illustration of a bizarre sub-culture. It’s ______an ugly world, wherein the clamoring Your Vote: Your Vote: Your Vote: ______crowd thirsts for fights that are half real, half entertainment. Even with ______One winning entry will be randomly selected from all entries received. Submit your completed ballot farcical clobberings, the performers ______still take their fair share of lumps. As by February 20, 2009 to: Rapid River Magazine, 85 N. Main St., Canton, NC 28716. the old salt on the circuit, “The Ram” is respected there, which also explains a bit of its allure for him. Randy “The Ram” Robinson is by Chip Kaufmann simultaneously a loser and not a bad Black History Month: labor solidar- guy. While he screws up in daily life, Portrait of an Artist ity). His con- he has some genuinely respectful and certs abroad there are 4 feature films including his gentlemanly qualities that are nice to were rallying signature role in Eugene O’Neill’s The see. As in his own life, Rourke does Paul Robeson points for op- Emperor Jones (1933), two British not make excuses for his character’s pressed people films Sanders of the River (1935) and faults and failings but still succeeds lack History Month takes on a everywhere. The Proud Valley (1936) (his personal in giving him a sort of dignity. It is a greater meaning this year thanks He paid favorite) and a 1925 silent film Body and respect and dignity that both Rourke to the inauguration of Barack a very heavy Soul from African-American filmmaker and “The Ram” deserve. Obama as the first African-Amer- price for his Oscar Micheaux. There’s also a pro-labor ican President. It’s a pity that one activism, documentary Native Land (1942) and a Rated R for violence, sexuality/nudity, B including 1930 avant-garde short feature about race language and some drug use. of America’s greatest entertainers didn’t live to see something that he worked for condemnation relations called Borderline. Review by Michelle Keenan but would never have believed possible by the media here in America and the The set concludes with Our Paul loss of his passport from 1950-58, when which contains moving tributes from ∑∑∑∑ at the time of his death. Valkyrie To call Paul Robeson (1898-1976) he was at the peak of his career. You can such African-American performers as Short Take: Tom Cruise scores in simply an entertainer is to do him a learn more about that shameful incident James Earl Jones and Ruby Dee who tell this well made film version of an great disservice, for he was so much as well as the rest of Robeson’s career in of the powerful impact he had on their actual plot to assassinate Hitler. more. Actor, singer, athlete, and activist, the documentary Paul Robeson: Tribute lives and careers. The individual DVDs Robeson fought for the dignity not only to an Artist which is part of a new 4 DVD are available at Pack Library or through Reel Take: Valkyrie is the latest set Paul Robeson: Portraits of the Artist Netflix and the complete set is available installment in that line of films that of African-Americans but also for those involved in the labor movement (his released by the Criterion Collection. locally at Barnes and Noble or online singing of the song Joe Hill did much for In addition to the documentary through Amazon or other retailers. ‘Movies’ continued on pg. 28

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS

‘Movies’ continued from pg 27 Yes Man ∑∑∑∑ TEEN REVIEW by Sierra Bicking turn out to be better than expected. The idea of Tom Cruise as a German officer, a story that everyone knows the outcome Think back on today. Can to give a in with that. Okay, of, and the objections of the German you remember all of the differ- homeless so maybe you don’t government, seemed an ideal formula for ent things people asked you to man a ride, want to say yes to failure. Once again Cruise has taken on do? You may have been invited he ends up everything, but we his critics and won. to a party, asked to buy some- running often miss out when thing, or begged a big favor. out of gas; we’re afraid to take You probably said no to a lot of however any risks. these requests. Now imagine Jim Carrey as Carl, john Michael this hap- Jim Carrey and Higgins as Nick and Terence Stamp that you had said ‘yes’ instead, as Terrence. pily results Zooey Deschanel’s and how different your life in his zany chemistry por- Sierra Bicking is would be right now because of it. meeting a girl he really likes. As good trays the absurdity an arte aficionado Yes Man tells the story of an unhap- things begin to happen, he decides to of both extremes extraordinaire. py man named Carl (Jim Carrey) who continue saying ‘yes’ to everything, to very well, and even attends a self-help meeting where he is the point where he can’t stop. Eventually lightens the inevitable moral of the goaded into saying ‘yes’ to anything any- Carl becomes a whole new person...with story. So if you want to be inspired to one ever asks of him. This lands him in a whole new set of problems! take chances and live life to the fullest, some very unpredictable situations. For Lately my motto of life has been just say ‘yes’ to seeing Yes Man. Seize example, when Carl reluctantly agrees “carpe diem,” and this movie fits right the day! Tom Cruise and the cast of “Valkyrie.”

There were no less than 15 attempts to kill Hitler before he finally committed suicide. The von Stauffenberg plot was Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Michelle Keenan’s Pick: the one that came closest to succeeding. In “La Ronde” February’s DVD Picks “Once” the summer of 1944, a German officer left a briefcase of explosives at a meeting that Whether you’re single or coupled, in light of that Hallmark card holiday of holidays, you’ll probably Hitler attended. The bomb was detonated but unfortunately Hitler was only slightly watch something this month with a bit of romance in it. There are plenty of mutually satisfying classics wounded. The conspirators were caught (see Chip’s DVD pick), and those occasional little films that charm everyone (see Michelle’s DVD pick). and executed and Germany’s last chance for a peaceful settlement died with them. The most successful aspect of Val- La Ronde (1950) lease and Oscar win for Best Original kyrie (thanks to the strong supporting cast Remarkably frank but surprisingly Song, there is a new wave of Once of Terrence Stamp, Bill Nighy, Kenneth subtle look at sex and love (in that excitement rolling through the office, Branagh, and Tom Wilkinson) is that even order). on Facebook, in conversations with though we already know the outcome, the This 1950 French film was friends, etc. If it’s not the film that’s film still generates an aura of suspense. considered quite scandalous in its day got people buzzing, it’s the music. We also feel the exaltation of the conspira- especially in America. The premise of I’ve recently even heard the catchy tors when they initially think they have characters having sex without mar- Oscar-winning song, “Falling” on succeeded. The film’s historical settings riage shocked conservative moviegoers the radio, which of course is now are all in place and director Bryan Singer even though it was done with wit and introducing it to a whole new legion (Superman Returns) moves everything style and didn’t show you anything of fans. I still periodically get emails along at just the right pace. improper. from friends sharing their wonderful There have been a few critics who I first saw this film in college back Only the black and white photography new discovery. complain that the actors don’t speak with in 1970 and have waited for years for and the discreet, good taste employed Share it they should. Once is German accents and thus it is less authen- it to become available on DVD. It’s are clues that this film is almost 60 a simple story, minimally told. An tic. In truth they should be speaking Ger- based on a work called REIGEN (ring years old. If you enjoy old-fashioned unnamed man (Glenn Hansard) is man with subtitles but this is Hollywood or circular movement) by Austrian romance with a bit of spice (and a vacuum repairman by day and a not the History Channel. No one com- playwright Arthur Schnitzler which don’t mind subtitles), this is a perfect busker (street musician) on Dublin’s plained about the actors speaking English premiered in 1897. Adolf Hitler con- Valentine’s Day offering. Grafton Street by night. An unnamed in Doctor Zhivago, For Whom the Bell sidered it to be absolute filth. young woman (Marketa Irglova) is an Tolls or in the original All Quiet on the The movie stars Anton Walbrook Once (2007) immigrant from the Czech Republic who was a classically trained pianist Western Front. (of Red Shoes fame) as a narrator and Boy Meets Girl and together they Ultimately people need to learn to occasional inter-actor of a series of make beautiful music there, but now is a house cleaner. separate Tom Cruise the actor from Tom “trysts” between a number of char- Boy meets girl and beautiful mu- When they meet, they bond Cruise the celebrity and Scientologist. He acters with one picking up where sic is made in the little Irish, indie film over music and end up spending one still has a lot to offer which can be seen another left off until the “ring of love” that could. Despite fabulous reviews glorious week together writing songs, in Valkyrie, which he brought to the table has come full circle. The repeated (a 97% fresh rating on Rotten To- recording a demo, becoming friends and produced as well. symbol throughout is an old fashioned matoes) Once was one of those little and inspiring one another. Interest- carousel. There’s even a “song of love” films that was very easy to miss. ingly, although Once is a musical of Rated PG-13 for violence and for strong sorts, the music is not the narrative language. that comments on the action. Once is one of those films that The Criterion Collection’s tool, it’s the heart of the story - and Review by Chip Kaufmann lives and grows by word of mouth. transfer of this film is truly stunning. Now, nearly a year after its DVD re- what a heart it is!

28 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE REstaurants & Wine

Presidential Pours by Michael Parker that the President chooses a restaurant does not mean that the restaurant is the Politics of Wining and Dining going to be worth the money, but if the White House chef chooses a wine for ow that we have experienced a The Palm’s only Presidential snub since its the menu, you know you have a reliable who had nothing to do with the perceived peaceful transfer of Presidential opening in 1972, but eight years is a long example to follow. arrogance in Paris. Serving the world’s power, as scheduled, the wine- time, and The Palm deserves its success as Still, with these coming wine wines can only highlight and celebrate and-dine scene in our nation’s much as the Old Ebbitt Grill. selections also come some unavoidable what free people do. Ncapital is experiencing a welcome change. Just as significant, and more perti- politics. The American wine industry is Whether our new President serves Those of you who hate politics and nent to this column, the wines on the nationwide, not just Californian. Dozens one or two terms, there are hundreds of policy may want to pay at least some Obama restaurant tabs and on the White of states have fine producers, and it is my wine-supporting opportunities ahead. attention to the new administration for House menus are going to certainly be hope that deserving little-guy winemakers Wine producers who are eager for public- other (good) reasons. worth noting. I had put my optimism on will score the publicity of a Presidential ity need to be patient. In addition to the obvious changes hold when People Magazine reported a pour. I hope we see plenty of affordable that come with any new Presidency, the bottle of Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay in wines. Since so many wineries will be arrival of the Obama family brings a big the Obama kitchen. I remember think- eager to give even their high-priced wine Events at the Weinhaus difference to the toasts and tables in DC. ing, oh good grief, but then again the K-J away, it will be easy for White House Reservations are required for these Our new President and First Lady love to label is the bane of wine snobs, and the planners to forget about the retail prices and what they may imply. Add that to events, please call the Weinhaus at dine out, and after an eight-year hole of problem is ours, not that of Joe the Wine (828) 254-6453. non-alcoholic glass-raising and the super- Drinker. It’s none of our business what the long list of such concerns for people whose work is attached to politics. majority of POTUS’s meals served in the is open in their home. Saturday, February 7 White House mess, the wines are back and Back in December, this column Suggestions for the current The Grovewood Café with chef/ DC waiters are now experiencing frequent recalled President Nixon’s support for the White House owner Larry Waldrop will present a Secret Service scrutiny. (To clarify, Bush’s sparkling wines of California’s Schrams- five course dinner paried with wines guests were served wine, but who pays at- berg Vineyards and its very influential Sparkling Wine: I’ll begin at home. from the Weinhaus. 7 p.m. Cost is tention to what the guests are drinking?) pouring during his state visit to China. Biltmore Estate, which is no stranger in $59.95 all inclusive. Presidential patronage matters a great Last November, on election night, the the Executive Mansion, produces sev- deal to DC restaurants. Two adminis- Obamas celebrated with fizz from South eral quality sparkling wines. There are Tuesday, February 12 trations ago, President Clinton loved a Africa’s impressive Graham Beck winery. producers in New Mexico (Gruet) and on An early Valentine’s Feast will be held southwestern restaurant near the White At a Congressional inaugural lunch, the Traverse Peninsula of Michigan who at The Orchard restaurant recently House called Red Sage. I went there for they opened a special “inaugural cuvee” of deserve their 15 minutes. opened by Dwight Butler of Vin- that very reason. I may not have liked the Korbel sparkling wine (Korbel’s seventh Dessert and After-Dinner Wines: Port- cenzos. Featuring five courses paried President’s politics at that time, but his inaugural presence). Senator Dianne Fein- style wines, especially from petite sirah and with wines from the Weinhaus, the frequenting that particular place success- stein of California chaired that committee. late-harvest zinfandel. Our northern states restaurant is located at The Broad- fully influenced my going there. In fact, Even if the Korbel label is another thorn in are dotted with competent producers of moor Country Club off Airport Rd. 7 the food was not necessarily stellar or the side of the wine snobs, wine producers late-harvest whites and ice wines. p.m. Cost is $60 all inclusive. even worth the money, but the energy are swelling with optimism as wine-drink- Not-just-the-West-Coast: To reiter- Saturday, February 21 inside Red Sage made it worth the time. ing powers-that-be in Washington are in ate, 49 states have wineries, dozens of A Carnivale Wine Tasting Dinner will According to a recent New York better situations to support the cause. which offer quality products. Remember be held at the Cedar Crest Victorian Times report, Red Sage “fell out of favor” I share this optimism. A Presidential the little guys, please! Inn at Biltmore. Brazilian and other during the Bush years and closed. I don’t endorsement of wine with dinner will Not-just-America: My theory is that South American foods will be paired know what that writer was implying, but further shake the wine stigmas that too drinks can unite the planet. There is a with wines from the southern hemi- my experiences there tell me that unless many Americans still entertain. Some world of good diplomacy and good will in sphere. 7 p.m. Cost is $55 all inclusive. they were excellent, their popularity de- maintain that drinking is wrong and oth- complimenting an ally, and even a would- pended on a President’s famous patronage. ers associate wine drinking with elitist be ally, by serving their people’s wines. The Weinhaus By contrast, The Palm is still going strong behavior. (That’s where labels like K-J The post-9-11 ban of French Wine was 86 Patton Ave., in Asheville in spite of the fact that President Bush did and Korbel can be useful.) complete crap, a punishment of ordinary (828) 254-6453 not go there even once in eight years. It is Also, as discussed here, the fact French farmers and talented producers

Tasting Events! Free tastings are held at the Wine Guy South every Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. Featured wines by local distributors are 10% off that day. South American Tasting at The Wine Guy North Wednesday, February 11 at 7 p.m. $20 per person. Call (828) 254-6500 for reservations. FIG Wine Dinner Wednesday, February 25 - Reception 7 p.m. $70 per person. Call (828) 277-0889 to reserve your seat. www.theAshevilleWineGuy.com Wine Retail ~ Tastings ~ Wine Classes 555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 Great wines for any occasion and budget. 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Thoreau's Garden

he plant catalogs are arriving in lily, it bears orange-yellow to by Peter Loewer record numbers so now is the red flowers in late June. the Lily time to choose the blooms for In July and August, both your garden of 2009! Remember, the early orientals and the for lily bulbs. When T that all of those pots of the vir- Aurelian hybrids bloom. Jan the buds have devel- ginal Easter or Madonna lilies are already de Graaff, one of the great oped to the point of being prepared for holiday bloom. lily hybridizers of all time, showing color, remove And for bloom in late spring and created the Aurelian strain, the pots from the bed early summer, I always include Asiatic including the spectacular and place them in lilies, offered in a wide range of bright ‘Moonlight Strain’ and decorative pots. colors, including maroon, yellow, or- ‘Golden Splendor’. Use large pots that are at least fifteen ange, pink, and white plus pastel colors ‘Casa Blanca’, an oriental Peter examines the such as cream, pale peach, coral, and pink. lily, blooms in early August blossoms of early-blooming inches deep and wide Some nurseries feature natural- and features fragrant ten- Lenten roses. enough to hold about izing mixes; try planting some inch flowers with pure-white a cubic foot of soil. directly in the garden and the rest petals and burnt-red anthers. The bulbs must be into pots. Especially attractive is They blossom atop five-foot stems. An- planted deeply, since many lily stems bear Lilium ‘Admiration’, its creamy- other oriental lily, ‘Strawberry Shortcake’, roots above the level of the bulb. Also, lil- white blossoms with maroon bears six-inch, sweetly fragrant flowers the ies need a good deal of soil, since they are spots on twenty-inch stems are shade of ripe strawberries and edged with heavy feeders. great on a moonlit night. creamy-white. Only twenty-four inches Although many garden writers claim Lilium canadense, an Amer- high, this dwarf hybrid is perfect for pots. that soil drains perfectly when there is Madonna Lily, ican native, is lovely in contain- ‘Little Pink’ is another short variety, per- nothing in the pot bottom except a small illustration by ers. Commonly called Canada fect for the edge of the border or for pots. hole, I’ve found healthier root growth if, Peter Loewer Lilies that bloom in August and when potting up, you put at least an inch of September include the various hybrids of pebbles or broken pottery in the bottom of Lilium auratum and the magnificent L. the container. Use a planting mix of good formosanum. This second species bears potting soil, sand, and composted manure six-inch-long, sweetly fragrant white or shredded leaves, and add a dash of lime. blossoms atop four- to six-foot-tall stems. Put about two inches of soil mix in It hails from Taiwan, yet is hardy in this the bottom of the pot, then set the bulb country as far north as Zone 5 if protected (or bulbs) in place — for small bulbs with mulch. Because it blooms so late, it use three to an eight-inch pot. Then fill requires special protection in the North the pots to within a half-inch of the top. from early frost. In addition, this species Gently firm the soil. is susceptible to a virus infection called Water the pots well and place them lily mosaic, so do not plant it with other directly in the soil in a protected nurs- lilies. ‘Little Snow White’ is a cultivar ery bed. They will need at least six but with large solitary, paired, or multiple preferably eight hours of sunlight a day. flowers on nine-inch stems. If grown Water well and feed with a liquid fertil- from seed sown in September, this lily izer once a month. will bloom the following summer. It is After the bulbs have stopped bloom- especially well-suited for pots. ing move the pots back to the nursery bed Buy or order your lily bulbs as early to allow the foliage to ripen. Then either in the spring as possible. If they arrive and plant the bulbs out in the garden, or place you are not prepared for them, store them them in a deep cold frame or another cold, in a cool place such as the refrigerator. In protected place for the winter. spring our refrigerator often has seed pack- For a special touch, plant some crocus ets in the butter compartment, seed flats in bulbs around the edges of the lily pots. the freezer, and bulbs in the crisper. The early-season blossoms will provide I use straight-edged black plastic pots welcome color before the lilies appear.

How Much Wood Could a Woodchuck Chuck? It’s Groundhog Day once Our Nature Center nat- again at the Western North uralists and Carlton Burke, Carolina Nature Center! noted expert, will amaze Join Asheville Citizen Times you with the biology and columnist Susan Reinhardt ecology of these herbivorous and the Nature Center staff creatures, along with Ap- on Monday February 2 at palachian music and folklore 3:30 p.m. as we take a close look at our about our local “whistle-pigs.” groundhog, Nibbles, one of the largest For more information on this squirrels in the eastern U.S.! Groundhog Day celebration, please Find out what a single mom and a contact Keith Mastin, Education Cura- single groundhog have in common! tor, at (828) 298-5600 ext. 308.

30 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE ARTFUL LIVING

The Gateless Gate “Unfettered at last, a traveling monk, ave you ever considered why I pass the old Zen barrier. Mine is by Bill Walz religions exist and what the pull a traceless stream-and-cloud life.” to spirituality is about? There are many answers to these ques- collective unconscious, there is a ~ Manan (1591-1654) tions, but the one I offer here is knowing of this reality. This H knowing pulls us to create that there is an inherent paradox of simul- taneous separateness and connectedness some representation of this to the human experience. conscious unity, and so we world as form and separ- is here and now, just as it is. This is the Humans experience themselves as call it God, Brahma, Tao or ateness, it is as if there is a purpose of meditation. separate forms in a universe of separate Spirit, although originally, barrier between humans forms. This is their primary experience these names were really and this knowing. But of “nameless”, for there is a course, since this intercon- Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct of existence as communicated from the faculty member and a private- senses and the egoic mind. I am here, wisdom that as the Chi- nected consciousness is the essence of practice teacher of mindful- you are there, and surrounding us are the nese sage, Lao Tzu ness, personal growth and objects that make up the world. But is stated, “The Tao existence, it is not consciousness. this all? that can be named foreign informa- is not the Tao.” And tion, but rather, He holds a weekly medita- This is the reality that we operate tion class, Mondays, 7 p.m., in as individuals maneuvering our way as is recorded in within us as our essence. It is not at the Asheville Friends Meeting House, through our lives and it is the reality Exodus, Moses was 227 Edgewood. He will hold an extended we operate at as cultures, societies and confronted by information meditation and discussion Satsang at the economic entities. And, at a certain level, YHWH, or “I to be sought Meeting House on Saturday, March 28, 1-5 it is true. It is certainly handy. It allows us am who I am”, outside us, p.m. Both, by donation. to interact and manipulate our world. It essentially that but a knowing to be realized Info on classes and personal growth and is the dimension of human mind that is which cannot healing instruction or phone consultations called ego, the experience of separateness be named. within. It is the at (828) 258-3241, or e-mail healing@ in a world of separateness, the experi- This then leads to the realization of our nature billwalz.com. Visit www.billwalz.com ence of “I” as differentiated from “other” paradoxical state of human conscious- as Nature, for what else could we be? We and the facility to engage and shape our ness, a knowing of a background field are, at our core, at one with the One, while world. Useful? Yes. Ultimately fulfilling? of unformed, unnamed conscious- in our surface form, both physical and No. The limit of the reality of the nature ness within which there is a primary or mental, we are separate and lost. We Hu- of existence? We know instinctively, uni- foreground experience of the world as man Beings are form and essence, Human versally, intuitively, no. And it is certainly separate and named forms. This knowing (ego/separate form) and Being (conscious- fraught with problem and peril as well as of that which is unformed and the back- ness/energy/spirit). opportunity and gain. ground to the reality of existence is the Zen refers to this paradox as “The The ultimate reality of existence essence of the spiritual experience, which Gateless Gate” or the barrier that is no bar- is that everything is connected. We are then becomes formed into religious rier. Immediately we can then understand learning increasingly in the field of ecol- expression. Unfortunately, the pull and what Buddhism is referring to when it ogy how everything is connected, how we utility of the religious form in the world speaks to the experience of life that com- cannot simply add or subtract within the of form is so strong, that the unformed is monly is identified as reality being illusion. environment without incurring conse- mostly forgotten, and the form or name The purpose of our existence is to pen- quences that would seem unrelated from is worshiped as if the name were the etrate this illusion and relax into the truth the perspective of separateness. This is reality. This brings forth the problematic of who we are in our essence, as Manan where the problem and peril issue comes aspect of religion that continually seems speaks of, to “ pass the old Zen barrier.” in, and increasingly so, as our environ- to be in violation of the wisdom that As the name, Buddha, means “Awak- mental, economic, geo-political, and even inspired the religion. ened”, we realize that we too, are here to interpersonal and intrapersonal worlds The Asian traditions of Hinduism, awaken. Looking outside ourselves for the become more unstable. Buddhism and Taoism, however, as Lao truth of who we are in the forms of the Physics has established that every- Tzu’s admonition illustrates, maintain world is error. Only by turning aware- thing is actually one field of energy with a forthright recognition of this conflict- ness to the discovery of the unity of the varying fields of density and vibration that ing paradox. They maintain as central to world within the field of consciousness create the “objects” of the universe, gas- the realization of the truth of who we are can we discover our essential selves. Only eous, liquid and solid. Physics is further and what the nature of existence is, that then can we be liberated from the error proving that the minutest particles of this this paradox must be unriddled before of identity found in ego and its world of energy field have a sort of consciousness, spiritual realization (satori), or even psy- forms. Only then can the knowing that that an electron “knows” when it is being chological clarity and the knowing of the integrates form and spirit be awakened observed and this observation affects its truth of who we are can be achieved. into the truth of who we are. Only then behavior, lending evidence to theories Since our primary experience is the can we realize that the ultimate reality that the universe itself is a field of consciousness. It is at this point that physics morphs into metaphysics. We have How boundless the cleared sky of Samadhi! How arrived at the doorstep of spirituality and transparent the perfect moonlight of the Fourfold Wisdom! religion, of God, Brahma, the Tao, Spirit. At this moment what more need we seek? As the Truth At a deep level, at a level below what eternally reveals itself, This very place is the Lotus we are taught and the information of our senses, at the level of mind prior to ego, Land of Purity, This very body is the Body of the Buddha. what Carl Jung would call the intuitive ~ Song of Meditation, Hakuin Ekaku Zenji

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Joe’s brew Notes

Highland Brewing Company: Asheville’s Craft Brew Pioneer by Joe Zinich

sheville is renowned for many applied to the Siebel Insti- things but especially for its art, tute of Technology brew- music, and craft beer communi- ing school and learned the Take the Tour ties. Each of these had a person, courses were designed for You’ll want to tour the High- company, or event to lead the students with at least 3-years land Brewery whether you’ve toured way to prominence and set the professional experience. To a brewery or not. The tour is enjoy- Astandard for those who followed. For get that experience, he joined able, interactive, thirst quenching, Asheville’s beer community, the pioneer Highland as an intern. When and very informative. The brewery is Highland Brewing led by the founder John McDermott decided to is big enough to impress but small and owner Oscar Wong and brewmaster move on, Oscar, who recog- enough to see, listen and understand John Lyda. nized John Lyda’s brewing how those flavorful brews are pro- Oscar was born and raised in Ja- ability, asked him to become duced and packaged. maica. His appreciation for flavorful beer brewmaster. From the start, in front of 6 began at his family’s Sunday dinners and John describes himself or 7 taps, your guide will provide a grew when he tasted a friend’s home as a “technical brewer”; beer sample of beer, a brief description of brew while he attended the University of style is not as important as the company and the key ingredients Notre Dame. His enthusiasm led to the batch-to-batch flavor con- used to make beer. construction of his own home-brewery. sistency. When a beer recipe John Lyda and Oscar Wong The tour continues to the wort Alas, the beer he brewed, by his own is developed and ready for (a malt sugar solution with hops admission, was “enjoyable but not exactly production, tests are per- named for the mountain peaks of our re- added) production tanks followed award-winning”. formed on the ingredients and at select gion) on an ongoing basis to complement with stops at the fermentation After graduation, his career path steps throughout the brewing process. their standard selections. Their latest is (yeast addition), clarification (yeast led him to Charlotte where he opened a Those results become the benchmark the certified-organic Black Mountain Bit- removal), and conditioning (carbon nuclear-waste-treatment business. His for the next batch. Brewing art develops ter, a light-in-alcohol (less than 5%) but dioxide added as necessary) tanks. enthusiasm for flavorful beer continued desirable aroma/flavor profiles; brewing high-in-flavor English style pale ale; in After viewing the packaging unabated and, shortly after he sold his science develops consistency. That’s why stores now. My favorite of their standard area, the tour ends where it started. business and retired, he met the award- the Highland beer you enjoyed today will beer selections is St.Terese’s Pale Ale; Generous samples of select Highland winning home brewer, John McDermott. always have the same great flavor. medium body, slightly malty with a clean, brews are provided along the way. In 1994 they opened a brewery in Ashe- The Highland Brewery started crisp hop finish. ville to make British Isles style ales. The beneath Barley’s in downtown Asheville Tour the brewery and you’ll learn a name Highland was chosen to recognize with brewing equipment made from lot about the art and science of brewing the Scotch ancestry of many of the people modified dairy equipment. Over time, and the company and its staff. You’ll no- who settled in our mountains. sales grew to the 6,500 barrels-per-year tice the staff is happy, relaxed and displays pride in their work, product, brand, and has a respect for their customers. This is a direct result of a company living its phi- losophy of “quality, integrity, and respect” coupled with great communication. The same approach extends to the environment where numerous green-programs Oscar Wong conducting a have been implemented, to the city of brewery tour. Asheville where Highland is a recognized connection to the city and its vibrant beer This tour is one of the best I scene, to our region where Highland have taken, instructive and relaxed is working to establish a hop-growing with enough time to learn about industry, and to the area’s home brewers beer production, try some tasty where the Highland Cup recognizes their brews, and interact with your fellow talent and advocacy of flavorful beer. tour members. Highland is the first (legal) brew- Because different tour guides ery in Asheville. With their consistently are used, and it’s fun, I recommend flavorful beers and distribution through- going more than once; each time out the south east, they have become a I’ve gone I’ve met interesting people The Highland Brewing Company Staff goodwill ambassador for Asheville and its and learned something new. outstanding brewing community. Theirs Tours are held every Friday is a beer worth tasting, a people worth starting at 4 p.m., call ahead to let John Lyda, a native of Asheville, capacity but demand didn’t stop. To sat- meeting, and a neighbor worth having. them know you’re coming. graduated from UNCA with a business isfy the demand, a combination of Ashe- Visit and you’ll find out why. major and science minor. At college he ville- and contract-production was used enjoyed primarily imported beer, but until a new brewery could be completed the taste of the Belgian beer Corsendonk in East Asheville. That brewery opened inspired him to become an avid home less than 2 years ago with commercial Highland Brewing Company For five years, Joe Zinich brewer. After graduation he accepted a job brewing equipment, a capacity of 20,000 12 Old Charlotte Highway, has been taking a self- in Asheville’s movie theater industry but barrels, and sales of 15,000 barrels. guided, high-intensity tour his passion was for brewing. He planned With the increased capacity came the Suite H Asheville, NC 28803 of Asheville’s beer world. to open a “brew and view” but wanted to ability to create and produce a variety of (828) 299-3370 Contact him at: jzinich@ get a more formal beer education first. He new seasonal/specialty brews (generally www.highlandbrewing.com/main.htm bellsouth.net

32 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Local Flavor Forest Blue Enters South Asheville Dining Scene

idden behind a row The Cost: Appetizers and salads - $7.99 of storefronts on by Pam J. Hecht to $10.99; Lunch - $7.99 to $15.99; busy Henderson- Dinner - $16.99 to 25.99; Brunch, ville Road in south Everything $6.99 to $10.99. H Asheville, sits For- is made from The upscale dining room looks over est Blue - a gem of a restau- scratch — down the beautiful modern kitchen. rant that is steadily gaining to the salad dress- a following among those ings — with “as who’ve discovered it. many local foods Owner Shelia Seals as possible, espe- opened the cozy, upscale- cially produce,” casual restaurant/lounge in Seals says. “We’re early November. It’s the first not an assembly independent venture for Seals Owner Shelia Seals and bar line here and who, along with head chef tender Thomas Vasilos get ready we use our eyes Stephen Rice and Service for the evening dinner crowd. more than our Manager Steven Butler, have measuring cups.” left the corporate restaurant world, and Some of the recipes have been in the two are nearly giddy with their new- Seals’ family for 20 years, such as the found creative freedom. Salmon Florentine with dill sauce and her Seals, who has spent her entire ca- mother’s Beef/Italian Sausage Lasagna. reer in restaurant management, says she’s She and Rice also enjoy collaborating on seen what works and what doesn’t. And new dishes, such as the beef tenderloin she’s there for the long haul. “This is my kabobs, Seals says. life and Forest Blue is everything to me,” Meanwhile, it’s clear that Forest Blue she explains. “I have everything I’ve ever aims to please – customer feedback and wanted in a restaurant, here – great food menu suggestions are always welcome, and service along with a caring, passion- says Seals, whose face lights up when ate staff.” customers say they like a dish. “I have a vision for this restaurant,” she says. “And I’m not finished by any means.” The Space: Clean, open, and modern meets warm and woodsy. Main area seats 100, private dining room seats 60. A 24 hour reservation is needed to book the private dining room. This special treat doesn’t cost extra but they do require a minimum of seven guests. The room is booked quite often — call to reserve the room as early as possible. Non-smoking. Down-to-earth atmosphere with fine dining fare. Grab a bar Private dining room comfortably seats stool at an inviting, full-service bar in 60 with incredible outside views and the front for appetizers, mixed drinks, charming decor. beers on draft and local wines. The menu is eclectic and a few The Staff: Young, dedicated, well- standard dishes have a different twist, trained (everyone in the kitchen has such as the Seafood Spinach Dip, In- attended culinary school.) “I was ex- side-out burger stuffed with cheese, and tremely lucky to find such good Wireless people,” notes Seals. mixed berry tiramisu. Other interesting Internet options: Panko Breaded Ahi Tuna with If Access! wasabi cream sauce; Stuffed Chicken with You Forest Blue Restaurant & prosciutto, tomato, pesto, kalamata olives Go Lounge, 900 Hendersonville and smoked Gouda cream sauce; and Road, Suite 201 (in Forest Almond-Encrusted Pork Chops with a Center North complex, across sweet raspberry sauce. from Biltmore Forest). Delicious Open Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; I enjoyed a fresh, perfectly seared Specialty Pizzas tilapia filet topped with a Cajun-spiced Fridays 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturdays 4 p.m. Alfredo sauce (creamy goodness with a - 10 p.m.; Sunday brunch 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. (828) 236-9800 Spring Water Dough kick of spice), and popcorn shrimp, with (Additional hours to be added; call for cur- Appetizing Salads fragrant rosemary-garlic asparagus and but- rent schedule.) Reservations suggested but Open 7 Days a Week not necessary.Take-out, catering and private Fresh-Baked Calzones tery wild rice with almonds, red peppers, Hoagies & Pretzels zucchini carrots, scallions and squash. party space available. (828) 505-7055, or www.theforestblue.com 50 Broadway ~ Asheville, NC Healthy Ingredients Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS Buried classes in Cartooning is Cool 2009 Credit Card Debt? Asheville Art Museum After-School Art Classes Over $10,000 in credit card bills? Everyone Can Draw write and illustrate a story. Pre-registra- For students in grades 4 - 8, Tuesdays, tion is required. Only making the minimum payments? 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Winter Session: January 27 - March 3. Home School Program We can get you out of debt in months Spring Session: March 17 - April 28. For students grades 1 - 6, second Tuesday (No class April 14) Cost: $60 per six- of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. instead of years week session. February 10, March 10, April 14, and May We can save you thousands of dollars It’s a myth that artists are born and not 12. Cost: $3.50 per student per session made. Anyone at any age can learn basic Each 90-minute session includes a guided We can help you avoid bankruptcy drawing skills and have a creative experi- tour of the Museum’s permanent collec- ence. In each six-week session students tion or special exhibit, plus a hands-on will build their confidence with a wide Not a high-priced consolidation loan or one of activity in the Museum’s studio. Museum range of materials and learn usable tricks admission for students and all materials those consumer credit counseling programs of the trade. Pre-registration is required. necessary are included in the cost. Pre- registration is required. Call Create a Bound Book For students in grades 9 - 12, Thursdays, If redit ard elief 4:00 - 5:30 p.m., February 26 - April 2. You Classes are held in the C C r Cost: $75 for six-week session Museum’s WNC Art Re- for your FREE consultation Go source Center. To register Create a bound 7" x 7" book. This profes- or for more information, call Not available sional, digitally printed book will last a (828) 253-3227, ext.122 or 121 or e- in all states lifetime. Make up your own cartoon strip, mail [email protected] or eshope@ 800-845-8758 add computer generated art or choose to ashevilleart.org.

34 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS classes Workshops with Artist Steve Tracy

Boy and His Dog Fine Art welcomes internationally acclaimed artist Steve Tracy. Steve teaches a life changing abstract art A theory that is applied to almost all of the visual arts. Beginners to professionals benefit from his unique point of view. A workshop featuring his unique concepts is scheduled for February 25, 26, and 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. One-day workshop available on February 25 only. Workshop rates are $125 for February 25 or $295 for 3 days, if reserved by Febru- ary 14. You will never look at art the same “Silver Queen Cottage” oil on canvas by Steve Tracy way again. Reserve your easel today!

Historic Johnson Farm and ECO present Going Green Lecture Series Tuesday, February 3 at 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 17 at 7 p.m. “Finding the Balance between Growth “Bird Migrations, Habitats, and Nesting and our Natural Environmental Heritage” Patterns” 13-minute film on Henderson County Program by Rich Leppingwell, President plus discussion with David Weintraub, of the Henderson County Bird Club ECO Director. Tuesday, February 24 at 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 10 at 7 p.m. “Environmentally Friendly Building and/ “Henderson County’s Environmental or Remodeling Practices” Heritage and How to Protect It” Led by Ken Gaylord, architect. Featuring A panel discussion with Brian Thomp- product choices, maintenance, tax credits, kins, U.S. Fish and Wildlife; Renee and air quality. Kumor, Henderson Co. Planning Board; All lectures will be held at Historic Diane Silver, Mud Creek Watershed Johnson Farm in the Interpretive Center Coordinator. at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville, NC 28791. Visit www.historicjohnsonfarm.org

Lecture Featuring Filmmaker Paul Bonesteel Lecture + Tour + Reception: Enduring Photos, Enduring Mysteries

he Asheville Art Park Inn and The Great Museum invites you Smoky Mountains to Enduring Photos, National Park, including Enduring Myster- material and theories that T ies. On February 21, emerged after the comple- 2009 in The Forum at Pack tion of his film. Place and the Asheville Art Bonesteel will also Museum local filmmaker discuss Masa’s role in the Paul Bonesteel will lecture at 5 p.m., fol- upcoming film by Ken Burns on the lowed by a tour of the exhibition Map- National Park System. After the talk ping the Mountains: The Photographs of enjoy a reception and tour of Mapping George Masa, and a reception. the Mountains: The Photographs of Bonesteel (The Mystery of George George Masa. Masa, 2002) will discuss the photo- Tickets are $20 for Museum Mem- graphs and life of George Masa (1881 bers and $25 for non-Members. For – 1933, born Masahara Iizuka in Japan) tickets or more information, call (828) and his connections with The Grove 253-3227.

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Sunday, February 1 Saturday, February 28 Chamber Music Concert Studio Classes with artist John Mac Kah Weaving the Tapestry Great Tree There will be a concert by the of Our Lives Women’s Zen Keowee Chamber Music featur- Space still available. Preparing to paint. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Get your life to- ing Kate Steinbeck on the flute Students of all levels Deepen your draw- gether with this one-day interac- Temple and Amy Brucksch on the guitar interested in best use ing skills and learn tive workshop! www.holygroun- at 3 p.m. at St. Matthias Church of traditional materi- how best to trans- dretreats.org, (828) 236-0222, Residential Center for in Asheville. als to create artisanal late what you see in [email protected] Women: Zen Practice, Study & Community for All. These There is no fixed charge for the paintings. preparation for oil for more information. painting. Space is weekly and monthly events concert, but donations will be Intro to Painting are free and open to all. accepted for the restoration of with Oils limited. Saturday, February 28 the beautiful and historic church. Saturday 10 a.m. -1 p.m., in the Check our website for work- Loudon Wainwright III Weekly Study Groups St. Matthias’ Church is over 100 studio. shops in nationally known art Tuesdays, February 10 to One of the country’s most July 28, 3:30-5 p.m. years old and is on the national schools, www.JohnMacKah. poignant, humorous, and erudite historic register. Painting in the Open Air com. Long Branch Studios in Zazen for Everyone: Tuesday Saturday afternoon, weather songwriters, with guest (and and Thursday, 7 – 8:30 p.m. The church is located in Ashe- permitting, on location in city the Cotton Mill Building of the daughter) Lucy Wainwright ville just off South Charlotte parks and gardens. River Arts District. Roche, at the Grey Eagle, 8 p.m. Monthly: Family Practice, Street at Max Street on the hill Tickets: $25 advance/$30 day of Sundays 10:30-Noon. across from the Asheville Public New! Drawing for Painters (828) 225-5000 show. Advance tickets available Spring Schedule: Works Building (1 Dundee St.). Wednesday night, 7-10 p.m., [email protected] online and at local outlets. This February 22, March 22, studio classes. will be a fully seated show. April 26. Day of Mindfulness March 14 Thursday, February 5 Freeing Your Natural Voice Friday, February 6 Friday, February 6, 4-6 p.m. Sunday, March 1, at 3 p.m. For full schedule of retreats, Jazz Band Fundraiser practice opportunities, and 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This one- Valentine Exhibit & Etchings of Uganda workshops visit www.great- evening workshop is for you! Art Auction Photographer Carrie Wagner will Net proceeds will go to the HHS treetemple.org. Learn techniques in a supportive band program. The last concert Cloth Fiber Workshop is offering be featured in the F.W. Front atmosphere. www.holygroun- Gallery at Woolworth Walk this award-winning band per- Great Tree Women’s Zen dretreats.org, (828) 236-0222 or a unique way to enjoy the spirit formed nearly sold-out. Tickets Temple, 679 Lower Flat of Valentine’s Day. From 6:30 from February 2-28. Carrie will [email protected] display her photographs from are $10 and are available online. Creek Road, Alexander, NC. for more information. p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the store will (828) 645-2085. feature a silent auction of one- 15 year old negatives of Uganda, Box office opens one hour before of-a-kind, handmade valentines Africa focusing on both people shows – seating 30 minutes prior created by regional artists. and animals from the area. to show time. Blue Ridge Per- The cost of the program is $8 per How to place an event/ Carrie has practiced the art of forming Arts Center, 538 North Come bid on a favorite, and Main St., Hendersonville, NC. person with a limit of 10 par- classified listing with you’re certain to go home with photography for more than ticipants. For more information twenty five years. She feels her (828) 693-0087, [email protected], Rapid River Art Magazine one or more unique valentines. www.BRPAC.org please contact Mike at (828) 456- There will be dozens of different true passion is capturing the ex- 2030 at the Waynesville Parks Any “free” event open to the public periences and relationships that can be listed at no charge up to 30 “cards” and objects made with a and Recreation Department. words. For all other events there is range of materials and techniques enrich our lives. Tuesday, March 24 a $9.95 charge up to 30 words and — fabric, felt, paper, mixed Woolworth Walk, 25 Haywood Fly Fishing Course Sundays are Back! 10 cents for each additional word. media, stitched, beaded, quilted, Street, Asheville, NC. (828) 254- Offered to Kids Clingman Cafe 160 word limit per event. and woven. 9234, www.woolworthwalk.com. The Waynesville Parks and Sponsored listings (shown in Hours: Mon. through Sat. 11-6, Serving gourmet breakfast and Artists showing their heartfelt Recreation Department has part- specialty sandwiches, certified boxes) can be purchased for $12 interpretations of this sweet oc- Sun 11-5, Closed Tuesday. nered with the North Carolina per column inch. fair trade organic coffee and casion include Benares Angeley, Wildlife Resources Commission espresso. Open for breakfast and Deadline is the 19th of each Heather Allen-Swarttouw, Clara at the Pisgah Center for Wildlife month. Payment must be made Saturday, February 14 lunch from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Boza, Norma Bradley, Marga- Education to provide a six hour Local organic produce and baked prior to printing. ret Couch Cogswell, Sondra Frog Love in the Pink Beds introduction to the basics of fly Email Beth Gossett at: 11:00 a.m. Amphibian awareness goods. 242 Clingman Ave., in Dorn, Jacqueline Bakshy-Fehi, fishing. This program is for 10 to Asheville. (828) 253-2177, www. [email protected] or Caprice Hamlin-Kraut, Arthur program for adults, Cradle of 15 year old boys and girls. mail to: 85 N. Main St, Canton, Forestry, Pisgah National Forest; clingmancafe.com. NC 28716. Or Call: (828) 646- McDonald, Jean McGrew, Lisa The one day course will include Klakulak, Meg Manderson, Lisa $5; Call (828) 877-3130. Learn 0071 to place ad over the phone. about wood frogs and amphib- equipment, knots, casting tech- Saturday, March 7 Maraschiello, Trish Marshall, niques, aquatic entomology and – Disclaimer – Bernie Rowell, Jen Swearington, ian conservation and explore the Silent Auction and winter woods. will culminate with a fly fishing Due to the overwhelming number of Terry Taylor, Pat Trill, Barbara excursion in the well stocked Benefit Concert local event submissions we get for our Zaretsky, and many more. “What to Do Guide” each month, we Davidson River. Transportation, CAFE (Caring Artists for Ev- can no longer accept entries that do not Light refreshments will be served Saturday, February 21, 3-6 p.m. equipment and materials, includ- ergreen) - Sufi Brothers with specifically follow our publication’s the night of the action. A por- Migration of the ing waders, will be provided. members of the Snake Oil format. Non-paid event listings must Medicine Show, County Farm tion of the proceeds will benefit Motivational Mints All participants will need to bring be 30 words or less and both paid and Cloth Fiber Workshop. and Firecracker Jazz Band horn non-paid listings must provide infor- A showing of surrealist paint- a lunch and non-slip shoes. We mation in the following format: date, ings by Chad Knapik. On display section. Begins at 7:30 p.m. Location: 51 Thompson Street, will meet and leave from at the Haywood Park Hotel Ballroom. time, brief description of what your Suite D, Biltmore Station, Ashe- at Filo Pastries, 1155 Tunnel Waynesville Recreation Center event is and any contact information. Tickets: General, $25 and $30 at ville. For more information call Rd, Asheville. On display from at 9 a.m. Participants will return Any entries not following this format February 10 through March 31, the door; Evergreen community, will not be considered for publication. Barbara at (828) 505-2958. at the Waynesville Recreation $20. Call (828) 298-2173. 2009. (352) 223-8755. Center at 4:30 p.m. February Events ~ Announcements ~ Classifieds

36 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Asheville Celtic Band “The Muses” Perform February 3 Flat Rock Music Community The Muses, featuring Tanya Brody and never die. “Through our music you can Tuesday, February 3 6:30pm Theatre Events Matthew Gurnsey, each play a plethora of feel the green shamrocks underfoot, catch James D Harrell – a blend of folk, country, exotic instruments ranging from bohdran the aroma of a distant salt sea, and taste and blues. February 5-28 and concertina to harp and hammered the highland rain upon your lips.” The Little Dog Laughed dulcimer; psaltery, pennywhistles, fiddle Thursday, February 5, 8:30 p.m. and bones to name just a few. The Muses play with a passion and a Son’s of Ralph – music ranging from blue- A clever and risqué satire! brilliance that is sure to be enjoyed by all grass to country, to rock and back! Mitchell is a movie star on Seeking the return of traditional Celtic — they are truly an inspiration. the verge of hitting it big if it folk songs (and a stage overflowing with The Muses, February 3, 6:30 p.m. at the Friday, February 6, 9:00 p.m. weren’t for one tiny problem instruments and vibrancy), The Muses Transylvania County Library, 212 S. Gas- Corinne Gooden – a glimpse of simplicity - his agent, Diane, can’t seem breathe new life into a music that will ton St., in Brevard. (828) 884-3151. and purity. to keep him in the closet. Performances Thursday, Saturday, February 7, 9:00 p.m. Friday, and Saturday nights Sirius B – Absurdist Gypsy Metal Folk Funk at 8 p.m. in 35below. Tickets Punk range from $10-$15. Best in Show by Phil Juliano Tuesday, February 10, 6:30 p.m. February 5-7 Russ Wilson Trio hosts a jazz jam. Diva Cabaret From sultry to silly, from Thursday, February 12 8:30pm contemporary to classic, the Bobby and Blue Ridge Tradition – an excit- performances will be top ing five-piece bluegrass band. notch. Thursday, Friday, Friday, February 13, 9:00 p.m. and Saturday nights at 8 p.m. Alex Caton accompanied by Mary Ellen Tickets are $15. Table service Bush of Menage – Irish, Old Time and available for beer & wine. Gypsy music. Sunday, February 8 Callie & Cats by Amy Downs Saturday, February 14, 9:00 p.m. Firecracker Jazz Band Riyen Roots and the Family Tree Band Explosively hot jazz begin- – keeping the blues alive. ning at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 Thursday, February 19, 8:30 p.m. and under. The Neighbors Band – bluegrass with a twist of rock and roll and comedy thrown in. Auditions for The Man Who Came to Dinner. Monday, Friday, February 20, 9:00 p.m. February 23 from 11 a.m. Wink Keziah and his band Delux Motel to 3 p.m. Roles are available – where country meets rock’n’roll. for 6 men (ages 30-60) and 2 women (ages 25-45). Saturday, February 21, 9:00 p.m. Shane Pruit Band – acoustic-based Pied- For more Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins mont blues. information visit www.ashevilletheatre.org Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 p.m. Russ Wilson Trio along with bassist Steve Sarant and guitarist/vocalist Hank Bones host a jazz jam. Great Tree Thursday, February 26, 8:30 p.m. Charles Wood and The Lonesome Road Zen Temple Band – bluegrass inspired harmonies. Winter into Spring Friday, February 27, 9:00 p.m. Mother & Child, The Lone Derangers – Americana and folk/ February 6-8. Dragin by Michael Cole rock on the banjo. Women’s Retreat, Saturday, February 28, 9:00 p.m. February 27-March 1. Led Zeppelin/Pink Floyd Night featuring New Classes: Intro to Zen & Eric Congdon and Steve Whiteside. Young Women’s Zen Series. The Back Room For more information call Behind the Flat Rock Wine Shoppe, just down (828) 645-2085 or register at the street from The Flat Rock Playhouse. www.greattreetemple.org www.flatrockwineshoppe.com

Classes ~ Lectures ~ arts & crafts ~ readings

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 37 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE noteworthy Exhibition Based on African Folktale A Double Dose of Local Talent he People Could Fly,” an exhi- by Nancy Hayes ocal bluegrass by James Cassara bition of 12 watercolor paint- favorites Bun- ings by Hendersonville artist “They Went So combe Turnpike Costanza Knight, will be on and popular ter of Historic Places. view at UNC Asheville’s Blow- High, Way Over Since then it has Slavery Land” singer/songwriters Gallery February 1-28. The er Dave De- been used for concerts, exhibition is free and open to the public. by Costanza movies, and plays. The T Knight Lsmelik combine their The exhibition was inspired by a talents for what prom- other special aspect is traditional African-American folktale of ises to be an inspired having my good friend, the same name. The watercolor paint- she spent her evening of music. Dave Desmelik open ings depict slaves who escape their summers in Dave Desmelik will for us. He’s an awesome bonds by calling Saluda studying kick off the show, accompanied by mem- singer and songwriter. I’ll play bass with upon their native painting with bers of Buncombe Turnpike, making this him that night and more than likely some African magic and her artist father. a truly collaborative effort. “It’s pretty band members will end up on stage with literally flying away Later she studied art at a university in exciting” says Desmelik. “Josh Gibbs will him as well. Since the winter months are from the plantation. Florence, Italy, and at UNC Asheville. be joining on Dobro, giving me a chance usually slow for gigs we wanted to give Knight, a to try out some new songs.” people a reason to get out of the house, former speech and The band will be playing new mate- and hopefully enjoy the music. language patholo- If rial and old favorites. In addition they’ll JC: Buncombe Turnpike has a history of gist, often finds You Blowers Gallery is located be performing songs from Fresh Pre- fluctuating personnel, but its approach inspiration in o on the main floor of UNC serves, the recently released solo project has remained pretty consistent. What’s G Asheville’s Ramsey Library. stories and poetry. from band member and front man Tom been the biggest challenge in keeping A native of Florida, Open Monday-Thursday, Godleski. In anticipation of the evening things afloat? 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m. to I sat down with Godleski for a brief I started this group almost ten years “She Rose as 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; discussion. Sundays, 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more infor- ago. While it’s definitely gone through Free as a Bird” by JC: Talk a bit about your solo album. Costanza Knight mation, call (828) 251-6546. some changes the current lineup has been You’ve mentioned before how it culmi- with me now for almost a year. Tony nated a long standing desire of yours. Reece, who plays Dobro, has been with Tom Godleski: Fresh Preserves is a us almost three years. As for the great- project that I have been thinking about est challenge, I have often said that being doing for many years. Of course, think- in a band is like being married to four ing about it doesn’t get the job done, other people all at the same time. Given so I finally made up my mind to make that, it’s amazing that any group can stay it happen. The album is a set of songs together. It is so much more than just that are all based on true stories. I wrote being musically compatible; there really eight of them, my father-in-law (Tommy is a chemistry that has to be there. As for Thompson) wrote one, while the other is me, I have no plans to slow down, or quit a cover of a traditional song called Little playing, so there will always be a Bun- Omie Wise. It’s a story from Randolph combe Turnpike. County; Doc Watson recorded it several I am very optimistic about the band years ago and, given that I am a huge Doc now. The current line up is me on bass fan, I’ve always wanted to tackle it. and lead vocals. Former guitar player Dar- Four of my songs are based on stories rell Earwood is back with us, now playing from my Uncle Robert Fowler. He was banjo. Another former guitar player, my mentor and my hero when I was Micah Hanks is back playing guitar. growing up. He recently passed away, so Micah also produced Fresh Preserves. His I am glad to have done this album to keep brother Caleb is now playing mandolin his stories alive. Storytelling has always with the band. They’re both a lot of fun been a part of any Buncombe Turnpike to be around, very young and energetic. show, but with the release of Fresh Pre- Within the next month we’ll start serves I get to now tell those stories on recording some new songs, all original stage. Don’t worry though… the evening material that we’ve built up. It’s our first will most definitely not just be me up new band recording in three years, and there yakking. But I find that people like we’re all very excited about it. We’re to hear the ‘stories behind the songs’ so I shooting for a summer release, so I’ll keep feel inclined to include those too. you posted! All in all I’d say our future is looking very bright. JC: How will this be different from a traditional Buncombe Turnpike show? If Certainly the venue is part of that. It u Buncombe Turnpike with originally opened in June of 1932, with Yo special guest Dave Desme- the architects being listed as Benton & Go lik on Saturday, February 7 Benton, who were among the premiere at The Colonial Theatre in designers of their day. The Town of downtown Canton. The show starts at Canton acquired the theater in 1998. In 7 p.m., tickets are $10. The Colonial Theatre 2000 it was added to the National Regis- is located at 55-57 Park Street, Canton, NC.

38 February 2009 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 12, No. 6 RAPID RIVER ARTS Healthy Living A Wake-Up Call on Sleep

ore and more people are interested in how much sleep you by Max Hammonds, MD get at night, including: your boss, the traffic police, your especially now that there are more people M teacher, your spouse — as well who want your job. Many are working as your doctor. two jobs to make ends meet. Many are Sleep seems to be a health-promot- taking home work, staying up late at night ing life function that we feel we can do with their computer and their files. without — at least one-third of us think Then there are the entertainment so. That’s how many American adults get bugs — those who are watching late night less than seven hours of sleep. Not so im- TV, working on e-mail, reading the latest portant, you say. I can get by on five or six online gossip columns, playing games on hours of sleep, you say. Your body begs to the Internet, or reading the latest popular differ with you. book — staying up until two or three in A recent study in the Journal of the the morning. AMA reveals that the less sleep you get, the Loss of sleep works on the body like more cholesterol plaque you create in the any of the other stressors of life — in- arteries that feed your heart. The breaking creasing adrenaline (a short term stress off of cholesterol plaque is the primary rea- hormone), cortisol production (a long son for heart attacks. Another study from term stress hormone) and increasing the University of California suggests that blood sugar — and inflammation. The those who are making it on less sleep or result is increased diseases related to stress disrupted sleep are unable to form memo- and inflammation: heart disease, diabe- ry properly, limiting learning capability. tes, obesity (and sleep apnea), arthritis, In still another study in those who depression and anger management. get less than six hours of sleep a night, The answer for most is a simple one: at the end of two weeks they perform get your sleep. In the stressed twenty-first like people who have been without sleep century life this requires some re-apprais- for two nights straight. Those who get al of other life style choices: less caffeine, only four hours of sleep a night over two less alcohol, turning off the TV, rolling weeks perform like they have been awake away from the computer, especially just for three nights straight. before bedtime. Is it any wonder that driving ac- Other modifications include no eat- cidents, poor work performance, mood ing, exercising, or exciting TV programs Is the Air swings, sexual dysfunction, diabetes, three hours before bedtime. Regular obesity and early death are all increased in exercise increases sleep benefits, but not those who aren’t sleeping seven or eight right before bed. Finally sleep in a dark, in Your Home hours a night? well-ventilated room; go to bed at the As one researcher put it, “The sleep same time every night (including week- deprived driver is just as dangerous as ends); and if all else fails — according to Making You Sick? the drunk driver.” Imagine that same Dr. William Fishbein of City University principle applying to people working on of New York: “Take a nap.” a car assembly line, in a hospital care set- Are there other sleep aids or medi- Trapped Moisture and Gases ting or at a computer keyboard. Another cations or herbals that help sleeping? Can Be Harmful! researcher said, “Sleep is as important to What about melatonin? Look these up on overall health as diet and exercise.” WebMD where there are several excellent Yet we — the American public articles on sleep. Ask your doctor about Remove Unhealthy Air — continue to shortchange ourselves on which herbals and which medications are sleep. Why? One of the biggest reasons is safe and effective. But first — try getting Moisture Control Unit Reduce Molds and Musty Odors the overpowering drive to succeed in life, your sleep. Good-night. • Expels stale, musty air, replaces with fresher, healthier air • Reduces harmful gases and pollutants • Quiet, safe, environmentally friendly Forgiveness Circle Workshop • Maintenance-free—no filters or buckets The Forgiveness Circle is a mind/ The cost is $66 if paid by 2/10/09, • Uses less electricity than a 40-watt light bulb body/spirit approach to forgiveness that and $77 afterward. Call Kristine Madera will help you not only forgive those you at (828) 298-0623, or email BlissNout@ Improve the air quality in your home, satisfaction guaranteed have a tough time forgiving, but also gmail.com. Kristine Madera is a yoga develop a “forgiveness practice” in order instructor, reiki practitioner, long time to become more compassionate and meditator, and co-author of How to Call for a FREE Humidex phone consultation forgiving for the rest of your life. Meditate with your Dog.

Asheville, NC. Saturdays from 2-4:30, February 21-March 28, 2009 at South Asheville Yoga 1-800-663-2721

Vol. 12, No. 6 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — February 2009 39