FREE!

Sunday, September 9th www.arts2people.org www.myspace.com/lexfestasheville 11am to 10pm All Local All Original presented by LAAFF is in its 6th year of filling up Lexington Ave in downtown Asheville for one fabulously freaky day of all local, all original entertainment, arts, and food showcasing the diverse and amazing talents of WNC artists. öõ LAAFF 2007 will take place on Sunday, September 9th, the week AFTER Labor Day Weekend. From 11am- 10pm. LAAFF is a FREE event is fun for all ages and encourages costumes. öõ There are multiple performance areas featuring fire dancing, breakdancing, flamenco, salsa, belly dancing, reggae, bluegrass, rock, funk, world rhythms, jazz, trance, african drumming and dance, punk, opera, blues and the beat goes on ... öõ Street performances and interactive art areas are scattered up and down the street in between art and craft venders, local breweries, local foods, the underground art show, stuff for kids, bicycle jousting, puppetry, a record-breaking 40ft. tall bike, arts cars, dancing and LAAFFing and More!

We need volunteers! Help make the fun happen! Rapid River ® ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Volume Ten, Number Eleven Established in 1997 Distributed at over 390 locations throughout eight counties in WNC and South Carolina

Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray AUGUST Associate Publisher: Byron Belzak www.rapidrivermagazine.com Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Art Director: Dennis Ray Print Production: Simone Bouyer IInsidenside Marketing: Dennis Ray, Byron Belzak Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray 5 Cover Asheville Lyric Opera's 9th Season Accounting: Sharon Cole Book Editor: Beth Gossett 7 Columns Distribution: Dennis Ray Mountains of Art . . . . 7 Poetry Editor: Jeff Davis World of Quam . . . . 16 Bill Walz . . . . 26 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael Clark . . . . 27 Byron Belzak, Sierra Bicking, Jenny Bunn, Ingrid Carson, 8 ART James Cassara, Michael Clark, Personal Icons ...... 8 Jeff Davis, Amy Downs, Beth Penland School Auction . . . . 9 Gossett, Dr. Max Hammonds, MD., Jewelry ...... 11 Lindsay Hearn, Andrea Helm, A Good LAAFF...... 12 Chip Kaufmann, Sarah Mead, New Exhibits . . 18 Marcianne Miller, Manny Moss, Vintage Inspired Quilts . . 19 UNCA Mural . . 30 Michael F. Parker, Bill Quam, Bonnie Rash, Dennis Ray, M.C. Smith, Bill Walz, Elly Wells. 10 Asheville's Biltmore Village . . . . 10 Festivals ...... 23 INFO Rapid River Art Magazine is a free monthly publication. 13 Music Green Mountain Grass . . . . 13 Address correspondence to: CD Reviews ...... 14 [email protected] or Rasputina ...... 15 write to: Steep Canyon Rangers . . 17 Rapid River Art Magazine, 85 N. Main St.., 16 Books Canton, NC 28716. Phone: (828) 646-0071 22 Dine Sangria for Summer. . . . 22 www.rapidrivermagazine.com All materials contained herein are Art of Living™ owned and copyrighted by Rapid 26 River Art Magazine and the individual contributors unless otherwise stated. 28 What to Do Guide Opinions expressed in this magazine Callie and Cats ...... 29 do not necessarily correspond with the Corgi Tales ...... 29 opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine or the advertisers found herein. Movie Reviews © Rapid River Magazine, August, 2007. 31 Vol. 10., No. 12 Mediabear, a local Asheville firm, 34 Stage Preview provides original and local writing services to Rapid River Magazine. 36 The Greener Home Cover Design: John Dietz, Dietz Design, Asheville, NC www.dietzdesigns.com 4 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY The Asheville Lyric Opera’s 9th Season Romance, Madness & Comedy BY ANDREA HELM

ometimes when you’re music production or some aspect of trying to figure out where in Indiana and I was higher education in the you’re going, it helps to able to successfully area. consider where you’ve get into production ✔ in the Northeast. There had to been. be a community of The Asheville Lyric I worked with the Yale University giving and a spirit of Opera company will philanthropy. be entering its tenth opera, the Manhattan performing season next School of Music, ✔ There had year with the theme “Let’s the University of to be a desire for Celebrate!” The last nine Connecticut, and entertainment. I performed and Syears have changed lives in ways that no ✔ There had to be a produced opera with one could have envisioned, especially “center of energy,” or not artistic director David Starkey. He the New York City Opera. I met a lot localized focus in the first learned of the Asheville area from city. his parents. His mother’s family were of amazing people, missionaries, and his father’s family had a lot of support, The next step was members were also in the ministry. They and doors opened for to find the place that knew missionaries in the Black Mountain me.” most closely matched and Montreat communities who had come It was when their needs. “I became back to the states after serving abroad. At Starkey met Paul this grunt who traveled the time, Starkey didn’t realize how much Kellogg of the New the country digging in the Asheville area would ultimately shape York City opera that the mud to find this his destiny and musical career. the idea of starting special place,” Starkey After graduating from Indiana as a his own company master vocal performer, Starkey spent his first occurred to him. “We started talking ‘Opera’ continued on pg 24 first summer at the Brevard Music Center and developing this idea: what if we in 1994 and spent three more years there, had the chance to change the world?” traveling back and forth to New York City Starkey said. “What if we started an opera and making the transition from graduate company based on all the ideal scenarios school to a professional singing career. of performance? Both of us had a running It was his dad – himself a singer -- who list in our head of how it should be. So we showed Starkey the Diana Wortham talked to these veterans of the opera world Theater during a visit home. “The lights and asked them what they would do. Paul were barely on, but it was perfect,” Starkey and I worked on setting up criteria on how recalls. we could best identify the most perfect and He was living in New York City, best scenario in which to start a successful but he was still coming back to Brevard. opera company.” “I was immersed in the singing world These were the five most important and was on the road eight to ten months ones they came up with: out of the year. But in order to make it ✔ There had to be an artistic community. as a performer, I still needed to make money. I started working in theater and ✔ There had to be academic institutions,

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 5 Say hello to 35,000 of our closest friends! Advertise with 'Rapid River Magazine' IT WORKS JUST LIKE THAT (828) 646-0071 www.rapidrivermagazine.com

THE FINE ARTS LEAGUE OF THE CAROLINAS

“committed to teaching the realist traditions of the old masters”

Announces Open Registration for the Fall Session September 17th - December 14th

For an Application & Portfolio Review call 828.252.5050 or visit www.fineartsleague.org

6 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS MOUNTAINS OF ART The ABCs of Asheville’s Art Scene BY BYRON BELZAK

f course I’m going to leave and rock-n-roll, as well a film festival that out many who deserve to be is struggling to be noticed nationally. mentioned in this primer of today’s vibrant art scene in the G ... Grovewood Gallery near the Grove Asheville area. But given that this Park Inn, located in north Asheville, is a column - not a book - who is fabulous with its quality selection of could expect anything more? So here it unique handmade crafts. And downtown Ogoes with a quick look at the must-sees off of Church Street is Gallery Minerva, and people to know in and around artful known for its fine art and increasingly for Asheville, the unofficial capital of Western its photography. North Carolina. H ... The Haen Gallery (just down A ... Ariel Gallery, downtown Asheville’s the street from Blue Spiral 1) is one only contemporary craft cooperative, has of Asheville’s newest fine art galleries, come into its own as one of the region’s specializing in both flat art and sculpture. powerhouse galleries. Twenty co-op I ... “I” is for independent street artists members create and sell handmade crafts who perform music and mime on the that are nothing short of exquisite. And streets of Asheville. They can be found just down the street facing Pritchard virtually on every downtown corner on Park (home to panhandlers, drummers weekend evenings. “I” is also for all the and afternoon lunchers) is Asheville independent photographers who enjoy the Gallery of Art, Asheville’s oldest and thrill of the hunt locating every facet of largest fine art cooperative, with its 30 Asheville’s popular art deco architecture, (plus or minus) member artists. “A” from the Flat Iron building on Battery is also for the Asheville Art Museum, Park to Asheville City Hall. located in Pack Square. And if you have access to a computer, visit www. J ... Jewels That Dance, owner by ashevilledowntowngalleries.org for a gang designer Paula Dawkins is one of of other art and craft galleries. Asheville’s finest and oldest jewelry stores of distinction. Another jeweler, J. Kimmel, B ... Blue Spiral 1, founded by art mogul a couple of blocks away, is renowned for and community activist John Cram, is its quality as well. the fine art gallery that every local gallery aspires to be - or at least compete against K ... Kress Emporium, truly an (whether they admit it or not). It’s a must emporium, carries an eclectic grouping of see, and its bigger than ever. Of course, crafts, art, photography and whatnots. “B” also stands for Biltmore Village, L ... Lexington Avenue is the edgy art side just down from downtown Asheville of Asheville, full of outrageous fashion and across from Biltmore Estate, where and shopping fun. It is home to the wonderful shops, galleries and cafes are annual Lexington Avenue Art Fun Festival many, including Blue, a must-see jewelry (LAAFF), which rears its wacky wonderful store of one-of-a-kind designs and New head again this month. Go if you can Morning Gallery. And minutes away on stand the unexpected and love lots of local Wall Street, there is Beads and Beyond, flavor. founded by Barry Olen, who knows more about beads than most others. M ... Malaprop’s, an independent bookstore/café located in the heart of C ... Crucible Glassworks, billed as downtown Asheville and across from “Asheville’s hot spot,” is just that. Most Ariel Gallery, houses some of the most days visitors can watch Michael Hatch wonderful books of poetry, art and and his band of merry glassblowers create architecture that you’ll find anywhere. magic at the kiln. Attend its many book readings and other D ... Downtown Asheville’s art scene is free events in the store’s café. “M” also established, but Downtown Waynesville’s stands for Merrimon Galleries, which is art scene in Haywood County is growing located on Merrimon Avenue in north faster than many realize. It’s worth the 45- Asheville, truly one of Asheville’s best minute drive from Asheville, and is known up-and-coming fine art galleries, which is for its small town charm. managed by curator Heidi Foss. E ... Eagle Street in downtown Asheville N through Z ... That’s to be continued is ever changing and full of funky and next month. artful stores. Unquestionably, the Asheville area F ... Fine Arts League of Asheville art scene of today is sophisticated, diverse, trains artists at its Rankin Avenue facility and powerful. Its continuing vibrancy is a and shows the works of both students testament that this success has grown well and instructors at its Haywood Street beyond any one person or organization gallery. And, of course, “F” stands for taking most of the credit. FESTIVALS, of every ilk and fancy, from – Copyright 2007 MediaBear bluegrass music to cloggers to blues, jazz Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 7 R A PID RIVER A RTS FINE ART

‘Personal Icons’ exhibition August 3-31 BY BONNIE RASH arol Beth Icard’s new paintings continue to reveal her emotional responses and introspective observations of Italy and its culture. "Italy evokes in me an appreciation for what life's simple Cpleasures," Icard said. "I appreciate the food, the colors and the music, and the beautiful landscape, but also the gratitude and generosity of spirit I've seen embodied in the people I meet there." Icard resides in Landrum, South “A New Day”, by Carol Beth Icard, 24" x 24" Carolina and has won numerous oil on canvas, contains personal icons used awards in regional juried art by the artist to express universal emotions competitions. Primarily an oil painter, such as gratitude and generosity. she has also produced mixed media works incorporating Venetian plaster, transfers of her photographs, and other alternative materials and supports. Her work has been represented by Silver Fox Gallery for five years at 508 N. Main St. in Hendersonville. The Silver Fox Gallery is open seven days a week, Monday through Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

8 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS FINE ART

Penland School’s 22nd Annual Benefit Auction – August 10 & 11 BY LINDSAY HEARN

enland School of Crafts, a national center for craft education located in the North Carolina Pmountains, hosts a gala auction weekend August 10 and 11 featuring the sale of more than 190 works in books, clay, glass, metals, textiles, wood, and two- dimensional media. The Penland auction is one of the most important craft collecting of Collaboration.” Saturday’s events begin events in the Southeast. with coffee at Penland’s resident artists’ The weekend offers ample studios, followed by a silent auction, opportunity for purchasing outstanding lunch, and the second live auction. contemporary crafts including two live The 2007 auction highlights Penland's and two silent auctions as well as sales at print and letterpress programs and is the Penland Gallery and Resident Artist celebrating the opening of the Paul Studios. Alex Bernstein, Cynthia Bringle, Hayden Duensing Letterpress and Print Lisa Clague, Cristina Cordova, Vittorio Studio. The studio, opening in June, Costantini, Karen Karnes, Paul Stankard, greatly expands Penland’s programmatic and Toshiko Takaezu, among others, have capabilities in these areas and enables the donated pieces to Penland in support of school to offer outstanding workshop the studios and programs. opportunities in a new 6,000 square foot Among the signature pieces are building. Jun Kaneko’s ceramic Untitled Dango The 2007 auction also features and Rick Beck’s cast glass Reamer. The a special tribute to Norm and Gloria live auctions and meals take place in Schulman, with guest speaker Jun an air-conditioned tent with Dan V. Kaneko. Norm Schulman, a respected Klein, formerly of Christies & Phillips, ceramic artist and a beloved teacher, has conducting the sales. influenced several generations of American ceramists. Gloria is a photographer and a dedicated community servant. Both have been active members of the Penland community for several decades. Tickets for the weekend of events are $350. Tickets may be purchased separately for Friday for $150 and Saturday for $200. Tickets may be purchased by calling (828) 765-2359, x 45, or by emailing Penland’s campus, a mountaintop [email protected]. Absentee bids are of breathtaking beauty in rural Western accepted with a $25 bidder fee. North Carolina located near Asheville, is the atmospheric setting for the auction. Sponsors for the weekend include A&B Exhibitions of the contributed work Construction, Blue Ridge Printing, form the centerpiece of the weekend that Expressions of Culture, Inc., producers of includes a collectors’ lecture, cocktail the SOFA Chicago and SOFA New York reception, dinner, live and silent auctions, expositions, Our State Magazine, Progress and party on Friday. Phil Sanders, Energy Carolinas, Wells Fargo Insurance Director and Master Printer at the Robert Services of North Carolina, and WNC Blackburn Printmaking Workshop in magazine. New York, will present the Collectors’ Lecture entitled “Making Art: The Craft Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 9 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE Our August Poet BILTMORE VILLAGE

JEFF DAVIS, POETRY EDITOR This month’s Rapid River poet is Contemporary Ingrid Carson. She’s a native of Indiana, but is now a rising senior literature major at UNCA, where Landscapes she was awarded the Comfort BY SARAH MEAD Scholarship in Creative Writing for n the post-renaissance period 2006-2007. She has been a featured the landscape painting genre reader in both the Fresh Air and has morphed into a broad field Velcro reading series, and has also of concentrations. Four artists, read at the Black Mountain College presently showing at Bella Vista Art Museum + Arts Center. She has Gallery, speak to the broad new field also been featured on WPVM’s Iof landscape art in the 21st century. Wordplay, which airs each Sunday Painters who moved their studio at 4:00 PM at 103.5 FM, but is out into the landscape itself and became best heard as a stream from the known as plein-air painters formed station’s website (www.wpvm.org). one of the first major branches of post- renaissance landscape painting. Bethanne Above: Peter Alberice “Piazza-del-Campo-II” She is currently poetry editor for Cople and Sarah Linda Poly are two Metabolism magazine. Left: Kathleen Burke “Westmoreland County modern plein-air painters. December” Bethanne Cople has traveled extensively, to the west coast to capture Gesturing the wind, and fury of the rugged California Coast, and to the islands of Beeswax based paint with the second pieces, which is titled "Wait", depicts Gesturing for something, and bays of the East coast to breath in major branch of landscape painters, a winter field with heavy winter skies. I sometimes breathe and catch and share the calm summer sanctuary the impressionists. Her pieces are Everything is dormant and quiet, waiting you still upon me. of the Assateague Island ponies. She both representational and abstract. She for spring and warmer days to come. Her Or else this salt-mud scent has taken her easel into blizzards in points out "The wax can be scraped delightful pixie-like spring colored piece is the water of my childhood creek, the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, and smooth and burnished to the sheen titled "Light and Shadows" depicts the the balm on my back onto steep cliffs in Monhegan Island, of highly polished marble, pulled warm sun poking through the trees and after grandma's rooster tore into me. Maine. Her paintings capture not only roughly in broken layers to resemble tossing shadows across the forest floor. what she sees with her eyes, but also fresco, or built up quickly into the Up close Kathleen's pieces are layers All memories become the same the heaviness of the humidity in the thickest sculptural impasto." It is the and texture, but when you step away the as the edges fade-that creek water, air, and the lightness of the breeze as it surprisingly fresh result of an ancient detail in the landscape emerges. While the same as the water of the raft in whistles through the trees. technique combined with a post- the plein-air painters are very loose and the story you told me, In Bethanne's scenery the water is renaissance genre like impressionism quick, the encaustic paintings require a the word rooster two syllables that often an impressionistic reflection of that makes here pieces such noteworthy slow patient buildup of layers to achieve might curl up and nest for you the verdant land and sultry skies above. and truly modern pieces. their results. or slash a blood-fine line The water calms and Urban Landscape across my palm. centers her scenes echoing painting solidified into a the harmonious themes separate genre first in the We are nothing more than of the classic renaissance Netherlands, then Venice blood and tissue, landscape artists. became a center for urban or the words our blood and tissue Sarah Linda Poly landscape painting in the mid long to make. centers her images on the 18th century. Architectural Straining to shape you of words, salmon colored clouds of landscapes are a sub-set of I draw only the curve of you — sunset and the rich blue urban landscape that centers a penumbra in the half-light and gray skies that hang itself on man-made edifices. of an hour when even my over her pulsing green Peter Alberice's own name is just landscapes of hills, valleys, architectural landscapes rests a hiss on the tip of you. and farmland. The rolling their foundation on the great hills of the east coast gently Swiss architect Mario Botta's All the tattered words turn support the splendid skies statement that architecture translucent beneath the weight of above them in scenes that begins not with a stone being you — your ideas and tendons, draw you across the room. placed on a stone but a stone the eyes that widen and close In one of Sarah's being placed in the land. Peter to try to echo you, never sufficing pieces, 'Mountain Glory', suffuses his images with the never sufficing. you can feel the distance rich colors of the earth that in the sky as it skims just caught his eye in Italy. His In the presence of such chords, I see above the horizon and palate is rich in yellow, ochre the broken meaning of all the words picks up the haze off the and smoky olive-green colors too much misspoken, Appalachian Mountains to of the Tuscany landscape, I say instead mud, creek, give the air a thickness that Sarah Linda Poly “Clouds and Long Shadows” as well as the light creamy rooster, bear. only great distances can hues of ancient, degenerating or nothing, give it. In another piece, buildings that reveal their drowning instead on a teaspoon 'Clouds and Long Shadows', you can Sometimes Kathleen's paintings are many layers of multi-colored plaster. of these brackish, unbounded almost feel your soul being lifted like deceptively serene but she notes that they Though Peter begins the journey waters. the clouds sweeping up across the sky are rooted in psychological and existential that leads to each of his images in and casting rich dark green shadows on questions that she sees in the "complex the vertical and horizontal spaces of – Ingrid Carson golden fields. relationships between individuals and modern architecture he layers onto Kathleen Burke's encaustic between humanity and nature". each structure a milieu of ancient landscapes marry the ancient technique One of Kathleen's large horizontal ‘Landscapes’ continued on pg 32 10 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE JEWELRY Alexander & Lehnert Fine Jewelry Opens in Grove Arcade

BY LINDSAY HEARN

ichele Alexander and Bill markets pieces Lehnert, two talented that are structural jewelry artists with more or architectural in than fifty years of combined presentation and experience in jewelry design usually feature a and manufacturing, opened precious stone and Alexander & Lehnert Fine accent diamonds MJewelry, an exciting new gallery in the when appropriate. Grove Arcade, on June 1. The two artists Symmetry and create outstanding original pieces utilizing surface texturing completely different design approaches. are important Michele Alexander creates pieces design elements in sterling and 18K gold that are fresh and a reflection and inspiring with a loose and organic of his engineering presentation. A fine degree of intricacy background. Casting blends with her contemporary flair to in gold is his primary create exquisite jewelry. A piece might metal technique be designed around an unusual stone although construction Pendant by Bill Lehnert or textured element or it might yield and fabrication have to the natural flow of a particular metal become increasingly important. fabrication technique. This freeform “Quality is essential and each piece “Quality is essential approach yields unstructured pieces that is unique in design, construction and are enduring. Her design goal is to bring presentation. Working with each client to and each piece is a smile to the wearer and custom work is select an appropriate design and primary her specialty. stone is essential unique in design, For the to customer opening of the satisfaction and construction and store and also custom orders to celebrate her generally take presentation.” 20th year as a 3 to 4 weeks. full time jewelry I also utilize – Bill Lehnert artist, Michele is the services of recreating select several American pieces from her Gem Trade the Arcade that offer a variety of jewelry classic 80s and Association award styles including the Grove Arcade ARTS 90s collections winning cutters & Heritage Gallery, Mountain Made, of mixed metals throughout the Enter the Earth, Jazzy Giraffe, Morning including silver, country insuring Star Galleries, Roberto Coin Jewelry and gold, and copper. the customer Stevenson Rare Coins and Jewelry. For collectors, it of the finest in The Grove Arcade is located at is a chance to get materials and One Page Avenue at the heart of the that piece they cutting.” Lehnert Battery Hill neighborhood in downtown missed ten years specializes in Asheville and offers unique shopping, ago. rings, pendants, dining and regional crafts in one of Bill Lehnert and earrings in Asheville’s architectural jewels. Parking began creating Earrings by Michele Alexander all the precious is available in the Wall Street, Rankin jewelry media stones including and Civic Center garages as well as on Preview the books at more than 35 years natural emeralds, the street. Directions to the garages and ago through a sapphires, the Grove Arcade can be accessed at www.rapidrivermagazine.com. long-term interest in field geology and tanzanites, tourmalines, and garnets. www.grovearcade.com. For additional $31.95 for the complete set cutting precious stones. While these Alexander & Lehnert joins a growing information, call (828) 252-7799. interests remain, today he designs and list of specialty shops and galleries in (includes S&H) or purchase separately For personalized copies call Jaileen at (828) 586-6342 Lehnert specializes in rings, pendants, and earrings in all the precious stones including natural emeralds, sapphires, tanzanites, tourmalines, and garnets. www.tictocproductions.com

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FFESTIVALSESTIVALS A Good LAAFF BY M.C. SMITH

e’re having a world in Asheville that has spread nationally record attempt this year,” is firmly anchored in what Lexington says Kitty Love, executive represents-the funky, off-kilter, never- director of Arts2People, know-what-you’re-gonna-see, artsy, the arts organization that fringy, exciting, and individualized artistic orchestrates the annual expression.” “WLexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival. Realizing that, for legal purposes, “Michael Mooney [another event she needed a vessel — an organization organizer] has built an enormous, 40-foot — through which to funnel funds for the high bicycle that he’ll attempt to ride 100 project, she turned to Arts2People. Alexis feet to break a world record.” Gault, the founder of the organization, If watching Mr. Daredevil dodge power embraced the idea. After gathering lines isn’t reason enough to head out to a handful of volunteers and months this year’s festival, perhaps an opportunity of planning, the first LAAFF came to to participate in a deluge of new and off- fruition in 2001 and was an immediate the-wall interactive art events is. That’s in success, drawing an estimated crowd addition, of course, to the several stages of 10,000. A small percentage of the of live music, public art, and costumed profits are set aside for the next year’s street performances, all colorfully festival, and the rest funds Arts2People’s beautify the supports of Interstate 240 at day. Performing acts include the Unifire sprinkled amidst the local food, beer, and programs and operation costs. Lexington Avenue and Broadway. The fire spinners, Baraka Mundi bellydancers, art and craft vendors spanning the length nearly 6000 square feet of bare concrete the Hunab Kru break dancers, and the Lexington Avenue. All About Art will be adorned with themes of arts and red hot Rebells. The increasingly popular LAAFF, as it is simply called, is culture, sustainability, and “Asheville bike jousting tournament is happening the quintessential celebration of the Arts2People operates with a board of Saints,” which will be standing portraits again, as well as art car painting and a creative, funky, expressive, and eclectic nine selectively chosen volunteers and an of real-life Ashevillians. Painting is medley of other creative eye candy that culture that characterizes our beloved executive director. Aside from hosting the expected to begin this month. brings the street to life. LAAFF is a free city. It’s been called, by some, “the best LAAFF festival, Arts2People operates two event, but any money spent goes to a street party in town,” outreach programs- LAAFF Out Loud good cause-art! celebrating all local The Asheville Mural arts-visual, performing, Project and R.E.A.C.H. This year’s LAAFF, happening musical, culinary, and Through the Sunday, September 9th, promises all the If you go healing. Now in its R.E.A.C.H. program, same great music, eats, and activities as sixth year, organizers- which stands for years past, but with more interactive art Responsive Education and one great big bike. “We’ve offered What: Lexington Avenue all of whom are Arts & Fun Festival (LAAFF) dedicated volunteers-are Accessing Creativity mini grants to the community this continuing to grow the for Healing, year,” says Kitty. “We’re introducing When: Sunday, September 9, 2007 festival while staying Arts2People offers eight new art activities that represent from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. true to their original arts education and the creative work and unique vision of Where: Lexington Avenue, between mission of promoting outreach for working eight individuals.” One such activity is an College Street and Interstate 240 overpass, local artists and artists, disadvantaged interactive recording project, and another in downtown Asheville populations, and is a sonic junk sculpture. Festival-goers businesses. Cost: Free Money raised for the public. “The can also experience an art Happening-a R.E.A.C.H. program full-immersion, sensory art experience. www.arts2people.org/laaff.html the festival benefits the (828) 582-0431. programs and operations has been defunct for As always, the entertainment lineup of Arts2People, a non- a couple of years, but features richly diverse and all local profit organization we’ve recently started performers on specializing in it back up and we’re several stages. arts education and going to be focusing on “We’re showcasing outreach, professional women’s issues,” Kitty more bluegrass development for artists, explains, “using the acts this year in and serves to promote Michael Mooney creative process to heal addition to a wide Asheville as an arts victims of sexual assault variety of other haven. and domestic violence.” genres,” says Erin They hope to collaborate with several area Scholze, the chair The Catalyst non-profits. for the music The Asheville Mural Project (AMP) and performance Kitty, an artist and arts activist, exists to beautify and diversify Asheville’s committee. A birthed the idea for LAAFF. “I owned urban landscape and provides artists and few of this year’s a business on Lexington, and back the local community an opportunity musical highlights then there was still a lot of empty, but to design and implement their art include the promising, space,” says Kitty. She saw the publicly. The project’s murals can be Trainwrecks, The festival as a cohesive project that would seen at Downtown Books and News on Big Money Band, promote and create an identity for the Lexington Avenue and on the historic Speedsquare, street. “I think Lexington is a bastion West Asheville Bank on Haywood Road. CX1, and a special of grassroots creative funk,” Kitty says. AMP’s next ambitious pursuit is the bluegrass all-stars “My personal feeling is that the interest Lexington Gateway Mural, which will jam to kick off the

12 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE NOTE WORTHY Our August Poet Austin-Based Band Returns to North Carolina Still Life Still life – The blue vase of yellow And red flowers Leaned against the wall of the spare bedroom Your hands were there, Must be there still – Not your baking, kneading hands Not the hands that make lunch for your husband in the morning Or the hands that drive you to work- Not the veined, worn hands The red hands damp with dishwater But-delicate hands The precise, cool, careful hands of a painter moving, hungry hands swollen with wanting And, The red hands damp with dishwater

the hands that want to paint a violence of flowers. – Ingrid Carson

Memory of Waking BY MANNY MOSS Waking with the rags of a dream clinging, I reach for you – reen Mountain Grass, the quotes, humor, and exaggeration." the road and a vast majority of which still, warm, and solid. improvisation-driven genre- Bassist Jesse Dalton goes further to call are within this solar system. In that time bending bluegrass band from it "a self-induced psychedelic frenzy they consider themselves fortunate to The curtains hang on the windows. Austin, TX will be returning of quick-witted talent as seen from the have shared the stage with Hot Buttered The chair stands in the corner. to the Asheville area this other side of the musical looking-glass." Rum String Band, Billy Bright and the I want something harder to describe – August. Following a string Originally hailing from the Two High String Band, Jeff Austin of of appearances in Vermont and New Midwest's grass-roots-music hub, Yonder Mountain String Band, Tony Something earthen, dark, and strange. HampshireG they will be spreading their Champaign-Urbana, IL where they Furtado, Dubconscious, and have Damp clay; the incense thick stale air brand of gonzograss far afield from passed licks around front porch picking opened for acts such as the legendary of a church where only one woman their home base deep in the Texas Hill circles with folks that would go on to Wailers, Michael Franti and Spearhead, kneels – Country. join Yonder Mountain String Band, Leftover Salmon, Peter Rowan, and That kind of silence. Having recently been judged finalists Cornmeal, Leftover Salmon, and the Jazz Mandolin Project. They have also in the TELLURIDE BLUEGRASS How to Grow a Band, GMG has been managed to appear on dozens of radio In winter, we covered our hands FESTIVAL Band Competition, picking their way into the acoustic shows across the country, and have with socks and bread bags. and following an engagement at the bluegrass jam scene since 2001. That lent their talents to numerous benefits We lurked in the twilight NORTHEAST KINGDOM MUSIC seems to have become much easier for supporting causes they believe in. until our cheeks and chins were FESTIVAL on August 3rd and 4th, them since they relocated in 2006 to Having recently acquired a 1977 numb, until longing distilled into the Green Mountain Grass will be Austin, TX with its reputation for live MCI tour bus with an attitude and a sensation appearing on August 25th at Hannah music. small hard-working crew (also with an Flanagan's (27 Biltmore Ave.) at 10pm. Since their move they have added attitude) to assist them with their road Of cold itself, a glass globe thin as The four band members in Jesse Dalton, of San Marcos, TX and shows, they look forward to continuing paper in front of us, GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS are Trevor Smith, of Tucson, AZ, to their to tour in support of their album "Both Dave Wilmoth (29, mandolin), Adam lineup and have maintained a frenetic Sides of the Mountain" as well as For the breaking. "Pickles" Moss (24, fiddle), Trevor tour schedule that keeps them moving returning to the Zone Recording Studio Now, in this warm room, Smith (18, banjo/guitar), and Jesse from coast to coast. "We love being in Dripping Springs, TX to focus on a a womb whose windows are edged Dalton (25, upright bass). Together, home," says Dave Wilmoth, "but touring new album that should be released in with the breath of winter - they are folding together the sounds of is really the only way to play for all autumn of 2007. traditional bluegrass, gypsy swing, folk, the audiences we want to be in front Beyond that, they say that they will I want to be thrust out there funk, reggae, and jazz to create their of." Eighteen-year-old banjo phenom continue doing what they've been doing; where memory crystallizes into own stew of so-called gonzograss. Trevor Smith loves the adventures strengthening themselves as a dynamic something fragile as our bones In the spirit of the late-great gonzo of being on the road too, but laments touring band, traveling far and wide to themselves, journalist Hunter S. Thompson and the fact that "we haven't really gotten a discover and regenerate an explosive Until we cannot look away. inspired by the most vital endeavors in chance to explore the rest of the galaxy sound that will "program bodies to life, gonzograss is described by the band yet." dance from the first song to the encore, – Ingrid Carson as "melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic GMG has been playing well over night after night." mastery with heavy elements of sarcasm, 200 shows a year, most of which are on Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 13 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE MUSIC AUGUST CD REVIEWS BY JAMES CASSARA Great songwriting that, despite period or locale, stands the test of time.

Be it two stars or five anything rest assured Roky Erickson Jesse Malin anything reviewed here in is worth You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Glitter in the listening to. What a month this is, with a Gone, Palm Pictures Recordings Gutter, Adeline truly impressive array of new discs. Let me In the liner notes for his documentary Records know what you're thinking. Email me at You're Gonna Miss Me, director Keven Anyone's [email protected] and I'll be delighted to McAlester acknowledges what many critics whose had send you a free disc or two. told him all along; the music of Roger the thrill of Kynard "Roky" Erickson speaks for itself. seeing Malin in This excellent soundtrack of all concert, or at Robert Forster and original material by the artist in his the least snuck Call us with Your Special Orders. Grant McLennan various guises-as lead singer of the 13th a listen to any of the many live shows Intermission: The Best of the Solo Floor Elevators and as a solo performer- floating around the internet, knows what Fast Turnaround! beautifully Years 1990-1997 Beggar's Banquet energetic and ramshackle (in all the right Overnight Delivery in most Cases. chronicles the ways) affairs they can be. Even his acoustic Records life and music shows have all the quiet reserve of a When Grant McLennan suddenly of a creative wrecking ball set loose. passed away last year, the Australian group force whose On his third solo album Malin has at the Go-Betweens — perhaps the greatest descent into last fully assembled the record he's been band of the original indie pop era — lost mental illness, trying to put together since his deservedly one of its two songwriters and vocalists. as well as acclaimed debut. Glitter in the Gutter That the band was, following a period of his eventual is a fully realized collection of solidly lull, in the midst of a triumphant artistic return to crafted pop/rock songs that are as lyrically comeback made McLennan's death even productivity, substantive and poetic as the music that more tragic. It must have been particularly is both goes with them, showcasing Malin's devastating for Robert Forster. heartbreaking and inspiring. reputation as the epitome of the street His gentility walks the line between From the title track and "Fire Engine" rocker with a poet's heart. luscious pop, and a kind of particularly by the Elevators to "Bloody Hammer," to Having emerged from the hardcore Australian country-folk-rock. He such uncommon gems as "Two-Headed punk scene, Malin has grown artistically offers stories of broken love, missed Dog," and "Cold Night for Alligators" without loosing any of the desperate opportunities, and malaise, though the music is effusive, passionate, and energy of his past: he has no illusions somehow, because of his skill in writing simply revelatory. The rattle folk-rock of about what's happening these days, either hooks and melodies, these never seem "You Don't Love Me Yet" amply shows to himself or the music he loves. Speaking particularly dour or depressing. As for why Peter Buck counts Erickson among of which, he even has the chutzpah to quality, this really is the best of the best. his musical idols while the homemade cover The Replacement's fierce anthem He has chosen to include the demo and acoustic recordings of "For You I'd Do "Bastards of Young" turning it into a released versions of "Falling Star," which, Anything," and "Goodbye Sweet Dreams", piano-laden ballad that gives way to despite the words remaining the same, are present the savant genius of the songwriter screeching feedback guitars, and darned if very different songs. in all its starkness. Had Erickson played he doesn't nearly pull it of. Also captured are the gorgeous "Baby "For You (I'd Do Anything)" to any That brave misstep aside Glitter in Stones," the twelve string-drenched "The number of hip producers of the day the the Gutter is more than just a colossal River People," and the bluesy rocker "121." might have made him a star. leap forward for Malin. Like Samuel His reading of "Frisco Depot" is the best As it is he remained largely unknown Beckett, from whose writing the title version done outside of Newbury's and a for far too many years. The more current track is derived, Malin is holding out for testament to his talent as an arranger. "Unforced Peace" is one the most haunted the glimmer, even when it's obscured McLennan's volume is a wide-ranging songs in recent history while the album's by shattered dreams, lost souls, and and restless set, containing three cuts each closer "Goodbye Sweet Dreams," is as night roamers who cannot bear to see from 1991's Watershed, 1994's Fireboy, beautiful as it is haunting. See the movie. the sun come up and face their own and 1997's In Your Bright Ray, and four Buy the soundtrack. Be converted. **** shortcomings. Malin may not be Dylan from 1994's majestic Horsebreaker Star. or Springsteen, but he doesn't need to be; While Forster choose to group his songs Carolyn Mark that was a different time and too much aesthetically McLennan's are sequenced Nothing Is Free, Mint Records has changed. But much has stayed the chronologically, making it easier to chart same; the promise of rock and roll has not his artistic growth. "Easy Come, Easy Go" The strength in her music lies in her yet been realized, but neither has it been features a Rickenbacker electric 12-string voice-forceful yet restrained-and in her abandoned. For that, as well as astonishing guitar, a Wurlitzer, crackling snare drums, inherent ability to match the mood to the albums such as this, we should all be and a thumping bass-all that's needed to song. Such hushed joys as "Get Along" and grateful. ***** illustrate a song about detachment, where "Point O' View" work well within the due the protagonist moves between what he's largely to Mark's somewhat mordant sense learned and passing it on to another. of humor and willingness to throw caution Nick Drake This collection is as good as it's going to the wind. Best of the bunch is "Honest Family Tree, Island Records to get, not just for those that love The Go Woman" in which the singer kicks out with a bit of much needed oomph. A In the years after his death unreleased Betweens but for anyone interested in home recordings by Nick Drake have truly great pop songwriting that, despite couple of rollicking sing-a-longs finish out the set; not one to overstay her welcome repeatedly made their way into the hands genre, period, or locale, will most certainly of collectors. So prolific was his output, stand the test of time. **** Mark keeps things brief, wisely leaving the listener wanting a bit more and making particularly in the period just prior to Nothing Is Free all the better for it. But his 1974 passing, that his official releases www.ArtAsheville.com that cover... **1/2 ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg. 14 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT'S HAPPENING Take a walk on the WILD side with BY JAMES CASSARA Rasputina escribing the music of the Rasputina was Bornant and K. Cowperthwaite. A deal New York City based trio born. with Instinct surfaced in 2001 with Cabin Rasputina is nigh impossible. The Fever appearing the following spring. Few references come close three cellists' Bornant's stay was brief; she left in June to capturing the mystical/ image further 2002 and Cowperthwaite followed four discordant/beautifully developed by months later. Cellist Zoe Keating and Dconstructed and haunting sound they the addition Jonathon TeBeest, the first male member emit. of tightly of the group, were quickly added to the Fronted by singer/songwriter Melora laced vintage Victorian costumes; their band just in time for the 2003 release of Creager, a classically-trained cellist who gothic chamber-pop soon caught the the Lost & Found EP. backed Nirvana on the group's final tour, attention of Sony Records who issued Frustration Plantation, their most the band simply has to be heard to be the group's debut Thanks for the Ether cohesive work to date, appeared in spring My Brightest Diamond (shown above) understood; and even that might not be in 1996; Transylvanian Regurgitations, 2004. In 2007 the group released Oh opens for Rasputina at The Grey sufficient. The trio was formed in 1992, an EP featuring remixes by fan Marilyn Perilous World, a loosely-connected song Eagle, Thursday, August 2, 9pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 the when Creager placed a want ad seeking Manson, appeared a year later, and in suite culled from newspaper clippings day of the show. There will no seating, other cellists to form a rock band; among 1998 Rasputina resurfaced with How We that lead singer Creager gathered over a standing room only. those responding was Canadian musician Quit the Forest. two year period, then juxtaposed with the Julie Kent, and with the later addition By the new millennium, Rybska band's signature 18th century steam punk of Polish native Agnieszka Rybska, and Kent had been replaced with Nana imagery.

‘CD’s’ continued of the songs herein are traditional folk voices in rock: A quavering, vulnerable The Dreadful Yawns tunes, or covers of compositions by tenor that can shift from complete Rest, Exit Stencil Records simply couldn't keep up. Coupled with his contemporary folk songwriters. Also, indifference to totally awe struck in a both his guitar work and singing are more single phrase. While the Dreadful Yawns have been increasing psychiatric episodes, resulting in described as a psychedelic-influenced cancelled session dates and lengthy periods derivative of the likes of Jansch, Donovan, Recorded with Ferry's touring band, and country bluesmen such as Blind Boy Dylanesque dresses up Dylan classics for group, that's a somewhat misleading of isolation, much of Drake's material indication of their intent; on Rest, their was either never completed or simply not Fuller (whose "My Baby's So Sweet" he a night on the town with Avalon-style covers here) than they would be by the atmosphere while the tone is kept hasty third album, they're content as a roots rock committed to tape. band whose music is both intelligent and The 28 songs on Family Tree add time he settled into his own style. and loose. Such familiars as "Just Like His folk guitar work is exceedingly Tom Thumb's Blues," "Positively 4th pretty. up to an extensive (though not quite If you think that dressing up country- complete) compilation of such homemade nimble, but more striking are his vocals, Street" and a heartbreaking "Gates of Eden" which already boast his characteristic are reinvented as reverb-soaked lost Roxy folk-rock with well-placed organ, strings, efforts cut just prior to Five Leaves Left, bells, autoharp, and jangled Byrds by his 1969 debut. The bulk of it-and the mixture of assured slight smokiness classics; on "Baby, Let Me Follow You and English reserve. And the few Drake Down," Ferry even plays a bit of Dylan like way of Teenage Fan Club guitars are part that's been often bootlegged-was psychedelic, there's no harm done. recorded on a reel to reel at his family compositions included, especially the harmonica. Donovan like "Strange Meeting Pt. 2" There are a few missteps: A But these touches are not used to draw home sometime between the spring and attention to the band or make the songs fall of 1968. That was a particularly fertile put his reclusive yet poetic world view in meandering "Simple Twist of Fate" sounds clearer focus. like it was inspired by the Jerry Garcia sound deliberately obtuse and unusual. time for Drake: it coincided with the Instead, they're employed in much the height of the British Folk movement and The trio of albums Nick Drake Band version, while the closing "All Along completed during his lifetime-each of the Watchtower" tries much too hard to same manner as the best folk-rock and clearly demonstrates the influence Fairport country-rock bands of the 1960s did: to Convention and Bert Jansch had on the them sonically gorgeous, vaguely haunting, rock. Of course in typical Dylan (and and emotionally overwhelming-have gone Ferry) ironic fashion little of Dylanesque enhance the songs texturally and draw fledgling songwriter. out their inherent subtle, shifting shades Less familiar, and hence probably new from cult treasures to consistent sellers. sounds much like the Bard. There are no That in itself justifies the release of this solo acoustic guitars, no swirling organs, of mood. If the vibe occasionally recalls even to many hardcore Drake collectors, that of the Beau Brummell's or Buffalo are eight songs put to cassette during his collection, and if the music doesn't always and none of the tumbledown approach stand with his best recordings so be it. that suggests much typically associated Springfield they do so in a good, non- spring 1967 excursion to France as well reverential way. as a trio of nascent recordings made with This collection is hardly a jumping on with Bob Dylan. This is neither a good nor point for the newly initiated but it's not bad thing. The album doesn't add up to a producer Robert Kirby sometime in 1968. major statement, but there are plenty of There is even a pair of quaint efforts by intended for them. Hardcore Drake fans What is a plus is that after two decades will embrace it and everyone else will just of cautious, deliberate conceptual albums, pleasurable low-key delights along the performed on piano and voice by his way, usually offering a slightly whimsical, folksinger mother, Molly. have to nod in polite agreement. *** Ferry has rediscovered the subtle joys of sympathetic support. His band may not but not quite world-weary, brand of Many Drake fans will already be introspection. To be certain it's more familiar with the songs he taped at his push him the way that Roxy did in its prime-nor does this have the meticulous Americana than neo-psychedelia but not family home, but the cleaned-up sound Bryan Ferry nearly as dry and unduly earnest as the here makes this disc much easier to listen ambition of his own original work-that's Dylanesque, half the charm. typically alt-country or Americana band of to than those earlier unauthorized releases. EMI their age. Be clear however that, given the sources, Ferry has never felt quite so Like the comfortable as he does here, and if that In short, it's a welcome respite these are still rather lo-fidelity efforts. It's from the tedious expectation that every a very pleasant and listenable portrait of subject of this may not be exactly what all listeners are tribute Bryan looking for it is the quality that makes alt-country album needs to make a Drake's folk roots, though not intended to statement while furthering the movement. be on par with his studio releases. Ferry has one Dylanesque a small understated gem for of the most certain segments of his die-hard fans. *** Sometimes a step back is indeed two steps For one thing he was, at this point, forward. *** playing little of his own material; most recognizable Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 15 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE BOOKS & HUMOR 3rd Annual Book Mania – Saturday, August 4, 10-5pm ore than fifty writers of just visitors last year, advance planning and hors d’oeuvres, drinks and music, well about every genre - fiction, early arrival are advised. Box lunches will worth the $15 ticket price. And, a great history, mystery, young adult be available for purchase. opportunity to mingle with the writers that and children’s books, poetry, Among the many celebrated writers readers love.” travel and adventure, romance attending this year will be recent prize- “And, on Saturday,” added Mountain and more - will be part of the winning poet, novelist and short story Writers’ Alive member JC Walkup, 2007 Book Mania on Saturday, August writer Robert Morgan; Cataloochee “people will have all day to mix and mingle M4. Scheduled from 9am to 5pm at the author Wayne Caldwell; Rob Neufeld, with their favorite authors, have purchased AUGUST 2007 Haywood County Justice Center on author of A Popular History of Western books signed personally and join in Waynesville’s Main Street, this year’s North Carolina; Pulitzer prize-winning discussion with writers and readers.” Sunday 8/5 3:00 PM Third Annual Book Mania book fair cartoonist Doug Marlette; popular mystery Fair goers will also be able to take part in Poetrio - This month's featured promises to be bigger and better than ever. writer Vicki Lane; children’s author Kerry a book drive, with donated books to be poets are Janice Fuller Elizabeth Co-sponsored by the regional Madden; AC-T columnist and humorist distributed locally and through an African Hadaway and Mark Smith-Soto. writers’ group Mountain Writers Alive Susan Reinhardt; and, Waynesville writer literacy project. Masha Hamilton, whose and local independent bookstore Osondu John Malone whose Heading South is hot- novel The Camel Bookmobile inspired Friday 8/10 7:00 PM Booksellers, Book Mania 2007 will feature off-the-press, just in time for the book fair. our drive, will be on hand to tell readers Sarah Colton presents her book author readings and signings as well as “On the Friday evening before more about the Kenyan bookmobile effort "Tilt 68: From Vietnam to the Pill." topical presentations and panel discussions Book Mania this year,” said book fair to reach nomadic tribes with the printed throughout the day. The event is free and coordinator and bookstore owner Margaret word. Saturday 8/11 7:00 PM open to the public with public parking Osondu, “we’ve planned a reception for Presented by: Mountain Writers Alive! Bob Carlin will read from and sign available adjacent to the book fair site. visiting authors and ticketed patrons. It & Osondu Booksellers his book "The Birth of the Banjo." Given attendance of more than 1,000 should be a gala event, complete with Friday 8/17 7:00 PM Welcome L.D. Russell author of "Godspeed: Racing is My Religion." Saturday 8/18 2:00 PM Join local children's book writer The World of uam The Camping Test Gladys Scheffrin-Falk. BY BILL QUAM, A SYNDICATED COLUMNIST OUT OF CHARLESTON, GA Sunday 8/19 3:00 PM Q Malaprop's is proud to present favorite writer Sharyn McCrumb. here are probably thousands of Not amused or grateful, Cheryl before our departure. I put the finishing tests to determine an individual’s chose this very moment to inform me touches on what I thought was an Thursday 8/23 6:30 PM psychological or physical fitness that I was banned from any and all future outstanding packing effort. Before we Blind Date with Poetry with host or ability to perform on a job. camping trips, with or without her. I was turned in for the evening, I called Cheryl Matt Moon -- open mic event. Throughout my life, I’ve been completely shocked by her proclamation. in to inspect my camping gear. I just pretty successful at passing most “A true camper would and could wanted to make sure I had everything I Saturday 8/25 7:00 PM tests. That is, until I ran into my wife’s walk right through a spider web without needed. T“camping test.” blinking,” Cheryl insisted. And the I began with my facial supplies. I had Author Karen Abbott reads from her book "Sin in the Second City." This “camping test” hadn’t been camping test was born. my morning and evening moisturizers, invented when Cheryl and I decided to For weeks after the Camden skin toner, astringent scrub, cotton Tuesday 8/28 7:00 PM do a little paddling on the last day of a experience, I studied the spider webs applicators and of course, my “faces Organized Rhyme Youth Poetry relaxing long weekend in Camden, South scattered about our yard. I read stories only” oil-free sunscreen. I could tell by Night -- open mic for young people. Carolina. We cruised onward into the about the great spider web walkers of Cheryl’s wide-eyed silence that she was beautiful bald cypress canoe trail. The the Ngoni tribes in Zambia. I was battle impressed. Friday 8/31 7:00 PM swamp began to turn dark and creepy tested and ready. When I confidently I then carefully went through my Neal Thompson returns to sign his when Cheryl asked me to turn around approached my wife to set up a test date, hair essentials and choice of understated new book "Hurricane Season." to check out some scenery. I turned she threw me a curve. Cheryl graciously cologne. Why stink if you don’t have to? around and she yelled in mock horror, decided to take me out to Capers Island I pulled out my travel humidor with “The gator is heading right for us!” My on a kayaking and camping trip. three fine Dominicans. Those smokes 55 Haywood St. heart rate barely rose as she cackled like “What about the camping test?” I were going to go nicely with the bottles 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 a loon. Minutes later Cheryl asked me to asked. of Oregon Pinot Noir and New Zealand Hours: Mon-Thurs—8am-9pm turn around again. As I turned back, she “You can take the test out on Sauvignon Blanc. Fri & Sat—8am-10pm calmly warned me that we were about to Capers,” she replied. My dumbbells, boom box and Sun—8am-7pm glide through a large web. “Yeah, right!” God knows what kind of spiders selection of CDs were next. I huffed. dwell on islands off the South Carolina And just as I opened the ice cooler to As I turned to resume paddling, I coast near Charleston. But this was my describe each night’s selection of smoked had about two seconds to duck under a chance. If I chickened out, I would never meats and cheeses, Cheryl yelled, chest high spider web between two trees. know the joy of stinking to high heaven “ENOUGH!” The spider in the middle of the web was after three days of no showers, the “There is another more obvious the size of a canned ham. I didn’t have pleasure of eating sand-covered food out camping test,” Cheryl sputtered, “and time to yell. I instinctively leaned back of a can, the feeling of waking up with you just failed it.” as far as I could go and twisted hard to a stiff neck after three hours of restless To this very day, I have not been the right. “You’re gonna tip the boat, you sleep, the intimacy of watching my wife camping. Those Capers Island spiders boob!” screamed Cheryl. disappear behind a bush to relieve herself don’t know how lucky they are. “No need to thank me for saving your and then chasing me down the beach for life,” I snapped. “I’m sure you had to notice a smelly snuggle. No, I had to pass the – Copyright 2007 MediaBear, the size of that spider and the possum and test or risk missing these joys of camping. all rights reserved to the author blue heron trapped in its web!” Time flew by and it was the night 16 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE LOCAL MUSIC 80th Annual Mountain Dance & Folk Festival featuring the Steep Canyon Rangers BY JAMES CASSARA

teep Canyon Rangers, one of the have been taking the hardest working and most dependable band's music to an ever- bands in contemporary bluegrass widening audience. In music, will headline the 80th Annual fact, the Rangers will Mountain Dance & Folk Festival soon be exporting their with a trio of shows from August 2 uniquely American Sthrough the 4th. music across the Atlantic Lead by Graham Sharp on banjo when they tour Europe and vocals the band, which includes for the first time. Woody Platt on guitar and voice, Charles This fall they'll Humphrey III on bass, Mike Guggino on also be hosting the 2nd mandolin, and Nicky Sanders on fiddle Annual Mountain Song (all members contribute to the group's Music Festival, a festival rousing harmonies) have steadily gained they started to benefit the respect of the bluegrass community. the Boys & Girls Club in On the eve of Lovin' Pretty Women, Brevard, N.C. the band's first CD since winning But here's an Nicky, Mike & Graham in a musical conversation. the International Bluegrass Music opportunity to see the Association's (IBMA) "Emerging Artist" band and hear the new Steep Canyon Rangers at the Mountain award, the band promises to "dig even songs prior to the new CD. It is certain Dance and Folk Festival Thursday, Friday deeper in a traditional Bluegrass sound" they will offer the same timeless acoustic & Saturday: Adults $15 - Children $8. in hopes of reaching an even broader music that honors tradition, while boldly audience. "Traditionally bluegrass bands moving it into the future, upon which they Package ticket for all 3 nights: Adults $36 have gotten by playing all the standards," have built their reputation. - Children $24. For more information call says Sharp. "Most of those songs have all (828) 257-4530 been done and they've been done really well. Why try to recreate something that you can't outdo? So that was our motivation, to just be original. It gave us the opportunity to figure out how to be unique within a format steeped in convention." Hit songwriter and fellow IBMA award-winner Ronnie Bowman produced the album, which is set to be released on August 14. The Rangers have written their own material since they first started jamming together in a stairwell on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill. The group is blessed with artistic vision, a gift for songwriting and an intense desire to create their own unique sound. That's why the Rangers have been able to honor the bluegrass masters who came before them while nudging the genre forward in new and exciting ways. The new album showcases a band at the top of its game, whether dipping their banjos and guitars in the gospel water of "Be Still Moses" or telling stories from the coalmines in "Call The Captain" and "Cumberland Moon." The band's compelling harmonies are a testimony to their belief that the voice is as vital a musical instrument as anything with strings. Those same harmonies and unique style caught the ear of legendary artist manager Don Light, known for his work with Jimmy Buffet, Delbert McClinton, Keith Whitley, and the Oak Ridge Boys. Light built his reputation by spotting music visionaries early in their careers. He saw the same spark and intense desire in the Steep Canyon Rangers and signed on to manage their career. Together the Rangers and Light

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 17 R A PID RIVER A RTS THE NEW EXHIBITS NINTH SEASON Tim Frain ~ Pottery Vessels, ROMANCE Cast Paper, and Watercolor MADNESS Paintings COMEDY WICKWIRE fine art/folk art proudly features artist Tim Frain throughout August. Tim is a prolific artist working in nine different mediums Don Giovanni and, in each, he strives by Wolfgang for uniqueness Meet Tim Friday, August 3, Amadeus Mozart 5:30 - 8:30 p.m at 330 North Main Street, October Historic Downtown Hendersonville, North 13 & 14 C.arolina. Tim Frain is a native of Indiana. When he tried painting. He says, “Art just ‘made Pottery by Tim Frain Lucia sense’ and felt very natural.” di Lammermoor Tim presently works in nine different mediums. In addition to sculpture, papermaking, watercolor and oil, acrylics, and egg tempura (The Bride of painting, he works in printmaking and photography. His primary focus since moving to East Tennessee in 2001 has been pottery and watercolor Lammermoor) paintings. During his years in the Midwest he was affiliated with the Fort Wayne, Indiana Museum of Art, the Anderson Fine Arts Center the by Gaetano Brown County Arts Association, the Northern Indiana Arts Association Donizetti and The Hoosier Salon. January WICKWIRE 25 & 26 “...where the heart fi nds art”

Il barbiere Tim has been honored with solo exhibitions at The Jewish Community Center in Indianapolis, The Anderson Fine Arts Center, di Siviglia The Honeywell Center, Tusculum College and James-Ben Studio Gallery. He has also taught art classes for Indiana University and (The Barber Anderson University. He is a member of Tennessee Arts and Crafts Association, Foothills Craft Guild and Carolina Mountain Artists Guild. of Seville) His original art is in many private collections in the United States, by Gioachino 2007-08 Season Tickets: 828.257.4530 England, Finland and Russia. Saturday, August 11 Rossini The Meet the Artist RAY CONAWAY . . . masterful creator of Windsor April Chairs. He will demonstrate furniture making from 1 - 5pm at 329 N. Diana Wortham Main Street. 4 & 5 Theatre Season Sponsor is located in If you go the Pack Place Arts & WICKWIRE fine art/folk art features: TIM FRAIN and RAY Science Center in CONAWAY. August 1 - 31, 2007. Two locations 330 and 329 N Main

Production Sponsors Street in historic downtown Hendersonville offering wonderful new Downtown Asheville works of traditional, transitional art and contemporary folk art of the highest quality designed to provide inspiring ideas for year ‘round Asheville Lyric Opera decorating and gift giving. Office: 828.236.0670 Original Paintings, American Handmade Craft, Handcrafted Furniture, Photography, stunning Jewelry and More. Gallery Hours: Mon - Sat 10 Media Sponsors - 6, Sun 1-4 and First Friday of the Month until 9pm, 828-692-6222, e- Asheville Citizen-Times, WCQS mail: [email protected], visit: www.wickwireartgallery.com

18 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE NEW EXHIBITS

Quilt Dialogues – Vintage Inspired Art Quilts August 20 through September 14 Opening Reception August 24, 5-9 p.m.

The Transylvania Community Arts Council announces the exhibit “Quilt Dialogues/Vintage Inspired Art Quilts.” The show is curated by nationally know quilt artist Bernie Rowell, who paired 15 art quilters with locally owned vintage quilts. The exhibit, showcasing both the vintage quilts and art quilts, will open Monday, August 20 and will be on view through Friday, September 14. The public is invited to a reception for the artists at the TC Arts Center on Friday, August 24 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. as part of Brevard’s Fourth Friday Gallery Walk. During the reception, author Laurel Horton will be signing copies of her book Mary Black’s Family Quilts: Meaning and Memory in Everyday Life. Art Quilts are a relatively new form of art expression. Much discussion abounds concerning this topic-are they art or are they quilts? One undeniable fact is: Traditional quilts were the jumping off point for most quilt artists. To honor the relationship between the two aspects of quilting, “Quilt Dialogues/Vintage Inspired Art Quilts” showcases art quilts alongside the vintage quilts that inspired them. Sheila Rauen, of Knoxville, used as her inspiration a Sunbonnet Sue quilt owned by Sarah Wallace. A Dresden Plate quilt owned by Pat Childress became the foundation for Fairview resident Judy Simmons’ art quilt. Donna Cook Edwards generously offered three of her family quilts; a Pinwheel quilt interpreted by Barbara Hooley from Asheville, a Lattice quilt translated by Bets Ramsey of Nashville, and a Bowtie Variation as inspiration for Niki Bonnett of Asheville. Caroline Manheimer used an X Block quilt loaned by Karen Swing. Bernie Rowell, the curator for this show, offered three quilts from her own collection for inspiration- a Civil War Era quilt was the muse for Advertising Made Simple: • Free web links Jimmie Benedict of Reno, Nevada; Lynne Harrell of Greenville, South Carolina • Free ad design was influenced by an Optical Star quilt and Murray Johnson from Birmingham, • Easy monthly billing Alabama designed an art quilt inpired by a Pinwheel quilt. • Free listing of events Karen Swing of Brevard reinterpreted Diana Venters’ Trip Around the • And much more World. Kathy Spencer from Asheville used a yellow and lilac block quilt, also Advertising with Rapid River magazine allows owned by Diana Venters, as her vision. Janice Maddox from Asheville used her over 35,000 people each month to know a little own Grandmother’s Garden quilt as inspiration. A 19th century Friendship Quilt more about you and your business. owned by Brevard resident Mary Sauerteig was the basis for the quilt made by Each month we bring the best in performance Dottie Moore of Rock Hill, South Carolina. All quilts will be exhibited. and the visual arts of the area. Check out www.RapidrRiverMagazine.com For daily updates in the Arts, Film, and Your Quilt’s Place in History Entertainment of WNC In addition to the quilt exhibit, TC Arts is sponsoring “Your Quilt’s Place Please call 828-646-0071 in History” August 25, from 1-4 pm. Quilt expert and author Laurel Horton Rapid River Magazine can help you! will examine and interpret quilts brought by participants, providing historical Rapid River Magazine has been a part of information and cleaning and storage suggestions. Cost for participants is $10. this community for over 10 years! Women’s Stories/Women’s Creativity Fabric Artist Dottie Moore will teach a class titled “Women’s Stories/Women’s Creativity: A Journey of the Imagination” September 8, from 9 am - 4 pm. Participants will engage in a day of creative exercises and interactive discussions celebrating women’s stories and women’s creativity. Class cost is $45 for TC Arts members and $50 for the general public. If You Go Transylvania Community Arts Center is located at 349 South Caldwell Street, in Brevard. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call Transylvania Community Arts Council at (828) 884- 2787 or visit us on the web at www.tcarts.org. TC Arts is a nonprofit organization with the mission to “Celebrate and Nurture the Creative Spirit in Transylvania County.” The Arts Council receives support from TC Arts Members, the City of Brevard, Transylvania County Schools, and the North Carolina Arts Council.

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 19 Art Galleries and Home Decor in North Asheville THE ARCH

The ARCH carries Architectural accents, handmade tile, Japanese cabinetry, American Earth Clay plaster, environmental flooring. Gallery artists featured: Scott Olson, Jean Jones, Niki Bonnet, Travis Waldron, Ursula Gallow, Tom Hoxie, Jonathan Gilbert. Studio B

Through Sept. 1, Studio B proudly presents “Fresh Paint/New Works” an exhibit of new oil paintings by Timothy Charles Jacobs, a native of Western North Carolina. The landscape of Texas affected his perception of patterns, shapes and colors in the local landscape. The opening reception will be held at Studio B on Thursday, July 19, 5-8pm. Merrimon Galleries

Through August 20 – Merrimon Galleries presents “A Surreal Experience” with Visionaries and Surrealists from Asheville and beyond. This art experience will be one not to miss, with live performance art, breathtaking beauty and metaphysical paintings sure to open the minds and excite the eyes of the viewer. They have the honor of introducing Asheville to the fantastic paintings of internationally published American artist, Ilene Meyer.

20 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 “The Asheville area art scene of the here and now is sophisticated, diverse, and powerful.” – Byron Belzak – Mountains of Art, page 7

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 21 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE WINE & DINE Sangria for Summer – and how fine wine foiled a Capitol crime BY MICHAEL PARKER he international press went wild head of the fourteen year-old daughter, 2005. In that case, the burglar entered ingredients and make a few notes. for a day in mid-July when a and demanded cash. the house while the owner was away and One important thing is to leave the terrifying Capitol Hill robbery One guest, Christina “Cha Cha” made himself quite at home. As he drank ice out while the flavors blend, otherwise got nullified by an intuitive Rowan said to the robber: “We were just a bottle of white wine, he put a premium you get diluted sangria. Also, if you like guest and a glass of fine wine. An finishing dinner. Why don’t you have a Silver Oak Cabernet in the freezer. soda water, add it to your glass rather than armed man crashed an outdoor glass of wine with us?” The liquid expanded during the the batch. Soirée, pointed the gun at the It worked. He accepted a glass and process, as water-based liquids do, and • A 4 liter jug of “Rhine” wine for $11 stuck the gun in his waistband. “Damn, pushed its way through the neck and T • 2 cups sugar that’s good wine,” he said. This story oozed down the outside of the bottle, does not end before the robber asked for creating the frozen ring. Perhaps the • juice of two fat oranges a group hug, and got one. He left with a burglar’s first bottle of wine lent to • juice of two fat lemons generously filled glass, which was later his forgetfulness. Whatever, it was a • 4-6 oz of cheap Gallo brandy found empty in a nearby alley, unbroken. shameful, stupid waste that may have The media made the wine, Chateau been prevented if Cha Cha had been • 4-6 oz of cheap triple sec Malescot St-Exupery, the hero in this there to keep the red out of the freezer. • two thin-sliced oranges tale rather than the quick-thinking Cha While it may not foil an armed • two thin-sliced lemons Cha. The wine alone is not due the credit robbery, there is a highly recommended - it took an ambassador from the world summer wine drink for those who gather • two handfuls of thin-sliced of wine (and probably one who goes by in places besides Capitol Hill gardens watermelon the name Cha Cha) to transform this with Margaux-sized budgets: Sangria. Let it sit for a while for the flavors to potentially deadly situation. Either she Mistakes in making sangria include blend. Hold the ice and club soda until possesses amazingly accurate intuition, spending a fortune on pre-cut fruit. You serving time. or she is a damn lucky risk-taker who really need to know how to slice and chop deserves a good slap from a specific it on your own. If the knife scares you, Watermelon: most people agree it fourteen year-old girl. go to the kitchen store and buy a cheap is one of the best foods on the planet, I still wonder if she was trying to mandolin for twenty dollars. It will pay but when you decide to buy one for distract him so another guest could have for itself before two batches, and slice the the group, it rarely gets totally eaten. the chance to knock him over the head. fruit thin so more flavors get combined in I suppose people don’t like the mess. In a group-hug setting like that, there the mix. Fortunately, it also works very well in the must have been a least one little concrete The wine for sangria should be red sangria, here’s how: garden Buddha within reach. But then cheap. Do not hesitate to buy it in a • A 1.5 liter bottle of cheap red again, that would explain the absence box, and ask your retailer if there is any • One cup sugar of anyone with the fortitude to use it. Beaujolais Nouveau at throwaway prices. Further, Cha Cha did offer the robber This is that time of year that wholesalers • 3-4 oz brandy (dark spiced rum is the whole bottle. Perhaps she really did give up on selling what’s left. I got a good, too) deserve a good slap. case this time last year for less than sixty • 2 apples, thin-sliced The press did not report the vintage, dollars. • 2 pears, thin-sliced but there will be people who buy this Soak your sliced apples, pears, and label for its temporary fame and a good oranges, add sugar, fizzy water, and • 2 handfuls of thin-sliced watermelon story, a story that will surely be mangled lemon juice or fizzy lemonade, and then Let it stand for several hours and hold the at most of the dinner parties where it will pick a secret ingredient. Some people add ice and club soda until serving time be told. I am interested in its age just to vodka, some add a little anisette. Even know whether it was drunk too soon. The adding dark spiced rum is a good idea. Even if these recipes don’t stop current release needs a decade of ageing. This is why I am not providing crime, I think Cha Cha would still Will the robber return when he finds out an exact recipe, because sangria invites approve. he drank this wine before its time? you to leave your own mark, the goal This took me back to a robbery in is to be known for “your” sangria. If a downtown Asheville loft in the fall of possible, make two batches with different

AUGUST Wines of the Pacific Northwest Wednesday, August 8th, 7 pm - $25 Wine Dinner with The Corner Kitchen Wednesday, August 15th, 7 pm - $70 inclusive. Touring California’s Central Coast Wednesday, August 22nd, 7pm - $25 Seating is limited, so call 274-2439 for reservations. www.theashevillewineguy.com 555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120 Asheville, North Carolina

22 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE FESTIVALS 80th Annual Mountain Dance and Folk Festival BY ELLY WELLS he nation’s longest running folk festival, local families and of the Year, and during singers and interpreters of the music of festival. The 80th annual edition individuals are encouraged the past year their title the Southern Appalachian region. www. of this three-day event showcases to attend to help kick track ”One Dime at a lauraboosinger.com the best of the region’s old- off the first night of the Time” rose to #1 on the The renowned Cockman Family, time and bluegrass musicians, Festival. Bluegrass Unlimited performing Saturday night, has a mountain dance groups, cloggers, Audiences at each of National Bluegrass distinctive, bluegrass gospel style that has and ballad singers. the three performances will Survey. www.steepcanyon. garnered fans throughout the Southeast. T The Mountain Dance see an extensive line-up of com Their tight harmonies and original songs and Folk Festival, the country’s longest the best musicians, ballad On Thursday are applauded for their uniqueness and running folk festival, now in its 80th singers and dancers; each evening, thirteen year-old their arrangements of old gospel songs are year of highlighting mountain culture, evening features at least Seth Taylor – already a widely popular. www.cockmanfamily.com announces the performance line-up four dance teams from the talented and accomplished Under the direction of Jeff Atkins the for this summer’s festival. The Festival very young to the young musician plays banjo, Cole Mountain Cloggers, performing on runs for three full evenings, Thursday, at heart. The popular guitar, and Dobro with Saturday night, is a group of young dancers August 2 to Saturday, August 4 at the and long-standing house the bluegrass band Reel from Madison and Buncombe Counties. Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in band the Stoney Creek Tyme. Taylor began Ranging in age from 7 to 15, these dancers downtown Asheville. Boys returns to perform playing the guitar at age are dedicated to preserving Southern Held 7:00p.m. nightly, the Festival each evening of the 2007 three and currently holds Appalachian Freestyle Clogging while formally showcases an amazing repertoire Festival. Some feature Laura Boosinger the title of 3-time Junior entertaining the audience with advanced of mountain performers — old-timers performers representative National Champion in footwork, great showmanship, and well- as well as the newest generation of of the high caliber of entertainers during the banjo, 2-time guitar and Dobro. www. choreographed routines. bluegrass and mountain string bands, three nights of the Festival include: sethtaylor.net ballad singers, big circle mountain dancers The Steep Canyon Rangers, A master banjo player and more, Thursday through Saturday, August 2 - 4, and cloggers who share music and dance performing Thursday evening, boast Laura Boosinger performs with Scottish 2007. 7:00p.m. nightly at Diana Wortham that echo centuries of Scottish, English, energetic playing and a wide repertoire folk musician, Flora MacDonald Theatre at Pack Place in downtown Irish, Cherokee and African heritage. of “new traditional” and “kicking old Gammon on Friday evening. Boosinger’s Asheville, NC. Tickets: Regular $15, The Festival begins Thursday, August 2 favorites.” In 2006 the International concert performances and recordings have Children 12 and under $8, 3 night with Hometown Appreciation Night; in Bluegrass Music Association voted Steep earned her a well-deserved reputation as package $36. (828) 257-4530. Info: www. keeping with the grassroots flavor of the Canyon Rangers the Emerging Artists one of North Carolina’s most talented folkheritage.org.

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 23 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE COVER STORY The Asheville Lyric Opera’s 9th Season

‘Opera’ continued from pg 5 “We were thrilled thinking we were Steven Hageman says he is going to get this guy ... but he called two an avid opera fan himself and said. “We tried to identify cities that met weeks before the show was scheduled supported Starkey’s fledgling these criteria and came up with a list of and canceled. Pavarotti was sick and company as much as possible about ten. We didn’t look at corporate Francisco had to stay in New York to go in the early years when they support as a criteria,” he said. Companies on for Pavarotti at the Met. We were very collaborated on projects come and go, but people don’t. People fortunate to be able to get Rockwell Blake and performed together. buy the tickets. The people are the instead. This was almost even better ... “During the production of reflection of their community. When we he’s considered the finest Rossini tenor La Boheme, we didn’t want looked at Asheville, we found a really in the world. He was here for a week and to stick our orchestra in the strong sense of community. We kept just blew everyone away. He was the best pit, so we used them in the coming back to Asheville as potential site advocate we could ever have. His impact performance,” Hageman said. ... it met all of the criteria. Asheville had was enormous. For the first time, we “They were on stage dressed it all.” could feel that there was real excitement in black, and we used a During this time, Starkey was forced about the idea of a permanent opera children’s chorus for some of to stop singing for awhile due to a medical condition. “When we looked at Asheville, we found a really strong “I took that sense of community. We kept coming back to Asheville as opportunity to think about potential site ... it met all of the criteria. Asheville had it all.” where I was and what I – David Starkey wanted to do,” he said. “I came back to the Asheville area to spend some company in downtown Asheville.” the vocals. My daughter was time with my parents, and that’s when In 2000, Asheville Lyric Opera’s in that chorus at the time, and I met Dr. Robert C. Moffatt, who’s the first full production was La Boheme she got to be part of it, too. current North Carolina Medical Board with in conjunction with the Asheville It was a great experience,” president. He’s a celebrated oncology Symphony Orchestra at Thomas Wolfe Hageman says. “David does a surgeon in this area and he LOVES Auditorium. “Several days before the great job, and he is a delight classical music and opera. He became opening,” Starkey said, “tickets for almost to work with. We would love my champion. Dr. Moffatt gave me a all of the 2,400 seats had been sold, and to do something with them again in the productions that they both wanted to do. lot of encouragement and support, and there was a blizzard the morning of the future. Because of him, I go to every In season five, the opera began touring, by having that champion, I was able to opera. It had been snowing all day long. opera I can.” and to this day continues to be the only start putting the idea of starting an opera We got the word that the local emergency The next production the two opera company in the country that tours. company in Asheville into action. We management people were considering collaborated on was the Pirates of In their eighth season, they produced had our first event in April 1999, just to declaring the city a disaster area. If they Penzance. “That was great fun, too,” three full operas and they have had a see if the community would respond. did that, there would be no way that we Hageman remembered. He is also very great response to doing three shows a Angela Simpson, who’s a dramatic could go on, since the Civic Center was a enthusiastic about the possibility that year. “Season ticket sales keep going soprano with the Metropolitan Opera, city building and they would surely close Asheville will one day have its own up every year,” Starkey said. “We had performed the first show with me in a it. The artists were all booked to fly out performing arts center that is better some funding fall through this year and joint recital. Attendance and audience the next day, so we decided to postpone equipped to meet everyone’s needs. “We we called on our donors for help. They response was very strong. We used the the opera until that Sunday night. Since would love to have something better responded amazingly.” money we raised from that event to bring the airport was closed, most of the artists than what we have now,” Hageman said, Over the last eight years, Starkey in Susan Dunn, who’s a verdi soprano were stuck in the hotel, so we gave a referencing their current home at the said, he realized was that their audience also with the Metropolitan Opera and mini-concert in the lobby Saturday Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. “We would really wanted was more classical opera, a faculty professor at Duke University. night. The next night at the performance, like a more comfortable and attractive and they have responded to audience We considered these two events to be nineteen hundred people showed up! It performance space with better seats and demand. Now in their ninth year, they’re our first season, and that’s how Asheville was through the roof.” much better acoustics ... both for the trying to grow and reach new audiences Lyric Opera was born.” Blown in by a cold wind, opera had patrons and performers alike.” while at the same time stretching their Starkey says they only had an 80- arrived in Asheville. The opera collaborated with the own performing wings by taking on foot closet space, a card table, a folding “That’s when everything became symphony for two more years, but it bigger projects. Starkey says their premier chair, and a telephone with which to get official,” Starkey said. “I was already was decided that Thomas Wolfe was production this season, Don Giovani, started on scheduling and producing the general director, and the board of not able to accommodate the full-scale is what audiences can expect from the their second season. “We had a desire directors were so enthusiastic that they to experiment with an eclectic offering, asked me to stay and be artistic director, operettas and classical musical theater like too. Now I had a major life and career “David does a great job, and he is a Rogers and Hammerstein,” Starkey said. decision to make. I had contracts with “Our biggest event at that time was Live opera companies and I had just gotten delight to work with. We would love to do from Broadway with performers from Le married. I said to myself that I started Miserable and the Phantom of the Opera. this and maybe I needed to stay with it. something with them again in the future. I knew early on that we had to get the I didn’t have a business background, but best singers we could afford.” I knew music. I gave up my contracts, Because of him, I go to every opera I can.” Starkey says they tried to get gave up my apartment, kept the wife, and – Asheville Symphony Director Francisco Cassanova, who was at that moved to Asheville in 2000.” time Luciano Pavarotti’s cover performer. Asheville Symphony Director Steven Hageman 24 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE PPERFORMANCEERFORMANCE

Asheville Lyric Opera in the future. recent winner of England’s “Britain’s Got move a human to “This show has lots of scenes, a lot of Talent” television program. Not only did tears, and no matter cast members, and it is a complicated Potts win the chance to perform before the genre, great music and layered show,” Starkey said. “We’re the Queen of England, but he also won is one of them. It is stretching ourselves to be able to do the hearts of millions of people all over rare that a city the size it. It is probably Mozart’s finest piece the world with that one brave appearance. and demographic of ever and it is a great challenge for us to When the chubby, ordinary looking Asheville can support accomplish.” The Barber of Seville is the Potts walked on stage before perpetual an opera of this caliber. company’s touring show, with dates in six persnickety person Simon Cowell, you We are fortunate to live cities in five states. could see the judges’ eyes rolling at one in a city that values and Looking ahead to their ten-year another when Potts announced that supports this form of milestone, Starkey says they want he was going to sing opera -- “Nessun artistic expression. to continue to grow and expand as Dorma” from Torandot. Whatever the next performers, but to also encourage every When Potts opened his mouth full ten years holds for this regional company in the south to do of imperfect teeth and the voice of God dynamic company, the same. “Any way we can help them came flowing out, eyes opened wide in Asheville Lyric Opera prosper can only bring sustainability to amazement at the flawless tenor operatic will continue to grace us,” he said. “What we’ve learned along voice this young man possessed. He our big little town with the way is that we have to take the time received a standing ovation from the a growing roster of to invest in our future and challenge audience, and one female judge seemed local talent along with ourselves to grow a little bit. We can’t be especially affected. You could literally see the best-known voices fearful to move and grow. Many people her entire being light up with delight, and that classical music and are afraid to grow because they don’t want tears shone in her eyes as Potts sang. As opera have to offer. All to leave anyone behind. That’s not a bad Starkey put it, “There is something about we have to do is show way to be. But there comes a time that the voice of opera that erases the human up and wait for the very you have to decide whether to stay the appearance. You could see her falling in large lady to appear. course or move and grow. We’re going love with him.” (Log onto youtube.com into our tenth year strong, and we know to see video clips of his performances.) that next year’s going to be even better.” There are few forces on earth Starkey talked about Paul Potts, the powerful enough to inspire a life or

For more information and updates on the 2007-2008 Season, child and adult education programs, and special events please visit www.ashevillelyric.org.

~ Schedule of Performances ~

Don Giovanni announce that Lucia di Lammermoor All 2007-2008 mainstage Subscription & by Wolfgang A. Mozart will be a co-production with The Opera productions will be performed in The Ticket Information October 13 & 14, 2007 Company of North Carolina and that Diana Wortham Theatre located at 2 The Barber of Seville will tour five states South Pack Square in Asheville’s Arts Lucia di Lammermoor • Subscription prices range from $99 through -out the southeast,” said ALO District; the home of the Asheville Lyric to $120. For a season brochure, call by Gaetano Donizetti General Director David Craig Starkey. Opera since 1999. ALO ticket services at (828) 236- January 25 & 26, 2008 “We have a fabulous line-up of talented Founded in 1999, the Asheville 0670. singers, directors and conductors joining Lyric Opera is recognized for its The Barber of Seville us this season. Plus, we are planning a excellent artistic productions of lyric • Single ticket prices for Don by Gioachino Rossini special pre-season party at Harry’s on the repertoire that entertain and inspire Giovanni, Lucia di Lammermoor, April 4 & 5, 2008 Hill, our season sponsor, featuring the audiences, featuring emerging operatic and The Barber of Seville go on sale to the public on September The Asheville Lyric Opera (ALO) cast of Don Giovanni.” talent and an outreach programs division ALO’s 2007-2008 season features that brings opera to 8,000 young people 1, 2007 with prices ranging from is pleased to announce its 9th season $35 to $45. Single tickets will be for 2007-2008. The new season features several important debuts and many each year. ALO opera productions tour happy returns including ALO principal throughout the southeastern United sold exclusively through the Diana three powerhouse shows with new, Wortham Theatre box office at full productions: Wolfgang A. Mozart’s guest conductor Dr. Robert Hart Baker States, reaching over 5,000 opera lovers and New York City Opera conductor in 6 states. The company will celebrate (828) 257-4530, www.dwtheatre. Don Giovanni, October 13 & 14, com or in person at The Diana 2007; Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia di Tim Myers; stage directors James its history in 2008-09 when they Marvel from New Orleans Opera and celebrate their 10 year anniversary. Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Lammermoor, January 25 & 26, 2008; Square in Asheville. and Gioachino Rossini’s The Barber Washington National Opera’s David • Discounts on group tickets are of Seville, April 4 & 5, 2008. All three Toulson; and world renowned singers available to groups of ten or more productions will include English super Cheryse McLeod, James Taylor, Branch by calling the ALO office at (828) titles. Fields, Tim Kuhn, Daniel Lickteig, 236-0670. “The celebration of ALO’s 9th Benjamin Bunsold, Daniel Webb, season will showcase the company’s Jonathan Ross, Roderick George, • Preview Dress student tickets are dedication to opera’s finest classical Roberto Flores, and Kristen Yarborough, now available in advance at the compositions. We are very excited to plus many additional leading opera opera office. singers.

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 25 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE AARTFULRTFUL LLIVINGIVING

“To resolve Karma, practice forgiveness, gratitude The Wheel of Karma and personal responsibility.” - Buddhist saying BY BILL WALZ

t its simplest, karma mind that finds reasons for our posture, we are settling into a world, replicating the inner experience means the law of cause anger in the world, and the dedication to balance, stillness and of meditation in our outer actions and and effect, and it is wise depressed mind that finds solidity in these moments. Shifting responses. We begin to resolve, to evolve, to be mindful that what reasons for unhappiness. into breath consciousness, we our Karma, moving from fearful, reactive we do always has effects. Each of these states of create some calmness, subtlety separateness to a more spacious, inclusive As with everything in mind is a cause that creates and spaciousness to our awareness. connection with life as it is. Buddhism, there are layers upon the effect of finding and Then, we notice the arising of We are able to forgive ourselves and Alayers of meaning for karma. Bill even creating justifying our thoughts, and as we are others for past harms, to find what there Staying for the moment at the Walz circumstances in noticing them, we are not is in life to experience in gratitude, and level of the most obvious, it is the world that caught inside them. We begin to be increasingly responsible in our not hard to understand that if then reinforce the realize this thought is inside personal conduct. This grows us spiritually you bring strife and violence of attitude attitude in the mind. And me, not I am inside the and psychologically. The wheel now turns or action into the world, you will be so the wheel turns, but it is thought. steadily and surely - advancing us towards surrounded by strife and violence, and this only spinning, stuck in the Then, we notice the a healthier and more fulfilling life. can never be a peaceful or friendly way to mud of our problematic qualities of the thought. Is live. You may be the victimizer rather than thoughts and reactive it angry? Is it fearful? the victim, but the quality of your life is behaviors. Is it unhappy? Then one of strife and violence, and often, the The importance we experience Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct faculty victimizer eventually must pay as violence of meditation in the the pull of the member and a private-practice then is visited upon them in retribution. resolution of this thought to carry teacher of mindfulness, personal My concern, however, is with karma conundrum cannot us with it, but growth and consciousness. He holds at a subtler level, at the level of the be overemphasized. instead we return to evolution of consciousness. The cause and Meditation, awareness of our a weekly meditation class, Mondays, effect to be considered here is with the first of all, is breathing and 7pm at the Friends Meeting House, relationship between mind and behavior. a stopping. the balanced 227 Edgewood. Not so difficult to understand. As we As we are stillness of our construct the world in our minds, so carried along, sitting and we He will hold a meditation class, we act in the world, and as we act in the caught in the have stopped lecture and discussion on the Omega world, so we reinforce the ideas we have momentum of the wheel. Journey, Healing Through Personal about the world. the turning wheel of karma, constructing We discover that we are not caught Evolution on Saturday, August 18, This can be a way of understanding a world in our minds as it has been pursuing the impulses of our thoughts, 2-5pm at the Friends Meeting House. what Buddhism refers to as “The Wheel conditioned into us by life training and but rather are calm, subtle and spaciously Info on classes and personal growth of Karma”. Returning to the violent circumstances, we keep recreating in present, able to make calm, subtle and and healing instruction or phone person, as they construct a violent world the circumstances of life the reasons to creative responses to our life situations. in their minds, so they behave, and in continue creating our mental world in the With this practice, we begin to evolve, consultations at (828) 258-3241, or that behavior and people’s responses, they same limited patterns. The momentum that is to expand, our consciousness of the e-mail at [email protected]. justify that the world is a violent place, and of this circular feed-back keeps our possibilities for who we are and what life Visit www.billwalz.com so their violence is justified, even required. consciousness stuck at a very primitive is about. So it is with a fearful mind, that finds level. So, first of all, we must stop. From our meditation experience, we reason for fear in the world, and the angry By sitting, we are stopping. Then, in can then begin to be more mindful in the

Storytelling Festival 2007 at Historic Johnson Farm

he second annual Johnson Fowler is a friendly, energetic is the first male graduate of NC arts, for founding a story-type theatre Farm Storytelling Festival will storyteller offering traditional yarns and A&T State University in the field company – We Tell Stories – that has take place at Historic Johnson folktales of the Carolinas with a delivery of Early Childhood Education. He toured across American for 25 years Farm in Hendersonville NC on described as a blast of old-time energy. “uses games, music, and movement The festival begins on Friday September 21-22, 2007. He is also a musician, playing old-time to provide creative adventures in evening, with a session of scary tales At the Saturday festival, mountain banjo and harmonica master. oral communication through his and marshmallow roasting around the storytellers will be John Fowler, He is a member of the renowned SC storytelling.” campfire for ages 11 and older, and will Tmusician and storyteller from SC; Community Scholars Institution, Television viewers may have be enjoyable for adults as well. Michael North Carolinian Joe Ferguson, and founder of the Carolina Old Time spotted Carl Weintraub as Cagney’s “Badhair” Williams from Zirconia, California storyteller Carl Weintraub. Music Network and a member of the blue-collar boyfriend on “Cagney and NC will tell ghost tales. Williams’ There will be an Open Mike SC Storytelling Network. Lacy”, or even recognized him as a performances “become a window to opportunity for adult storytellers in A past guest star on “Barney”, mob boss on “Days of Our Lives. But history where stories were told around the audience. A Friday night session of Joe Ferguson is a nationally known Weintraub is equally well-known as a the cabin’s fireplace to teach and scary tales for ages 11 through adult, storyteller and humorist. He “blends storyteller. He was the first recipient entertain.” He is a past performer at will feature Michael “Badhair” Williams. his humor and acting ability to show of the Los Angeles PASA Award for life the Smithsonian and the Walt Disney Saturday’s stories are appropriate how learning can be both natural and achievement in professional artistry in Concert Hall at the Performing Arts for all ages. All proceeds to enhance exciting.” He is an early childhood schools. He was also the first artist to Center of Los Angeles County. and continue the farm’s educational consultant known for his warmth receive the Los Angeles Music Center’s programs for Henderson. Co. students. and captivating personality. He Bravo Award for achievement in the continued on pg 32

26 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE AARTFULRTFUL LLIVINGIVING

Michael Clark is a certified Qigong QIGONG: A Teacher’s Journey instructor and founder of Heaven BY MICHAEL CLARK and Earth Tai Chi in Asheville ecently, the National my primary Qigong teacher. never told anybody that it was my first (www.HeavenAndEarthTaiChi. Qigong Association On that trip we visited Xi live TV interview. com). He can be reached at interviewed me for Yuan Qigong hospital in Beijing, Qigong gave me the clarity and (828) 252-6851 or michael@ their newsletter. Since where Dr. Cai taught us a form he awareness to change my career and HeavenAndEarthTaiChi.com. the discussion shed did to increase his energy before follow my heart. I quit my corporate so much light on my treating patients. I felt currents of job to found Heaven and Earth Tai Chi path and teachings, I heat surge up and down my body. in Asheville. Now I help others lead decided to share it with you. I couldn’t explain it, but I was healthier, more balanced lives. I feel like I done sitting, standing or walking, and RFor first-time readers, Qigong hooked on Qigong am fulfilling my life’s purpose. Circle of Water Qigong consists of three Michael (pronounced “chee gung”) is a Clark movements using healing water imagery. mind-body exercise that combines What has Qigong done for you? What people and teachers have influ- People gain a sense of accomplishment movement, meditation, massage It has transformed my life and enced you? quickly, which makes them want to learn and breath. helped me through several crises. I had My two greatest influences are Chris more. a high-stress corporate career as a media Luth, a two-time national Tai Chi and How did you discover Qigong? spokesperson for an energy company Push Hands champion, and National Where and what do you teach? My mother made me do it. No, in San Diego, Calif., when rolling Qigong Association co-founder Roger Heaven and Earth Tai Chi is an really. I had been studying Tai Chi blackouts caused millions of customers Jahnke. Chris turned me on to the itinerant school that uses other people’s for years when Mom called and said I to lose electricity. For 18 months, my internal energy of Tai Chi and how to space in five cities around Asheville. should try Qigong. I was married, had a life consisted of pagers blaring to signal use push hands as “energetic listening.” I teach the Cheng Man Ching form demanding corporate job and said, “Yeah, our rush to the Emergency Operations His motto of “loving students into of Yang-style Tai Chi, and numerous right, I don’t have time for anything else Center. My job was to tell the TV learning” has stuck with me forever. Qigong forms. I have taught in hospitals, in my life right now.” cameras why people’s electricity was off. Roger influenced my teaching style by chiropractic clinics, schools, parks Mom called again in 2000 and said Needless to say, I was not the most loved encouraging me to simplify and change YMCAs, fitness clubs, churches, health Michael Winn was leading a Qigong face on television. At the same time, I was forms as needed and to use “baskets food stores, and perhaps most surprising study trip to China. She sent me the going through a painful divorce. Tai Chi of practice” (movement, meditation, of all...an Indian Casino! itinerary and as soon as I read that we and Qigong were my life rafts during this massage and breath) in my classes. He How do you spread the word about would watch the sun rise on the sacred period. also showed me it is possible to relax, Taoist mountain of Hua Shan on my During the first blackout, my teach and talk from the Qigong state. Qigong? first birthday of the new millennium, stomach churned before a live TV I still use my corporate public I knew I had to go. Before dawn, we interview broadcast to 3 million people. I Have you created any type of Qigong relations training and consider myself joined thousands of Chinese scaling desperately wanted to do Tai Chi to calm or special program? an unofficial spokesperson for Qigong. I the rock-hewn steps of the mountain. myself down, but that would have looked I have blown away a lot of people have been interviewed by television, radio Then the whole procession stopped and really weird in the middle of a crisis. So with my Qigong Rap! The song carries and newspapers, especially for my efforts faced east to watch the fiery ball of the I just practiced standing meditation and a positive message about the essence and to organize the Asheville celebration of sun emerge from a sea of clouds. That sank my breath to my dantien, or lower philosophy of Qigong, and if kids don’t World Tai Chi and Qigong Day for the magical moment is cemented in my energy center. I breezed through the watch out, they might learn something past four years. I also write a monthly memory forever. interview. When I returned to the war before it’s over. I also created two magazine column on Tai Chi and Qigong My roommate on the mountain was room, all the top executives, who had simplified forms for beginners. Tai Chi and produce a monthly cable TV show Roger Jahnke, who would later become been watching the news, applauded! I Three has three movements that can be called “Conscious Movement.”

HEALTH FACTS: It’s Just a Mosquito Bite BY MAX HAMMONDS, MD ne of the newest diseases to arrive major health goals of the WHO. West Nile Virus. But several types of movement, heat, dark colors (hotter), in the United States is West Nile In the US there are over 60 daytime biting mosquitoes also carry sweat, carbon dioxide and smells like old fever. In the late 1990’s it took mosquito species. All are capable of the encephalitis viruses and the West shoes, socks, and perfumes. The person up residence in the wild bird carrying these illnesses: malaria (which Nile Virus. Therefore, protection from who is moving quickly, is sweaty and population and in the mosquitoes has been reasonably eradicated in the mosquito bites is always a concern at any smelly and is breathing hard will be an that bite those birds. Since 1999 US), eastern equine encephalitis (a killer time of day. instant attraction to mosquitoes. Othere has been an epidemic outbreak of of one third of those infected), western Although DDT was effective in When it is necessary to be outdoors West Nile fever every summer in the equine encephalitis and St. Louis almost completely eradicating malaria, during peak mosquito-biting time, humans who are bitten be these same encephalitis, and now West Nile fever today control of mosquitoes is by protection includes wearing long sleeves mosquitoes. While this is the newest, it is (the least severe infection but can lead to destroying egg-laying areas - mainly and pants and using insect repellants. only one of the many diseases which can a weeks-long recovery). still or slow moving water stands. This DEET 25-50% is required to be effective be transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. All of these illnesses are characterized is difficult to do as most of the prime as are slow release lotions with lower A major health risk around the world by fever, malaise, headache, muscle aches, breeding areas are deep in protected wet DEET concentrations. DEET is safe for is mosquitoes and the diseases they carry, nausea and vomiting, delirium and coma. lands, marsh lands, swamps and forests. children and pregnant women so long as killing more than a million people every There is no vaccine for any of these Around the home eliminate standing it is kept out of the mouth and the eyes. year. In Africa and Southeast Asia malaria illnesses and no direct treatment for any water in flower pots, pans, tires and tree When window screens are not available, and dengue fever are two of the major of the encephalitides. The best treatment stumps. Cut drain holes in tire swings over bed mosquito nets treated with killers of children. Other diseases carried is to avoid getting bit by a mosquito. and be sure that water does not collect permethrin should be used. The very by mosquitoes in other parts of the world Most mosquitoes bite at sunset in pools near air conditioner units and at best protection is to treat clothes with include Rift Valley fever, chikungunya, and at sunrise. These types of the bottom of eave troughs. Keep pools permethrin and put DEET on the skin. and Japanese encephalitis. The control mosquitoes can carry malaria, which and spas chlorinated and empty children’s It is not just a mosquito bite; it is a of mosquitoes and the control and is quite rare these days, but can also wading pools when not in use. potentially lethal disease. Protect yourself eradication of these diseases is one of the carry the encephalitis viruses and the Mosquitoes are attracted to: and your loved ones. Avoid the mosquito.

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 27 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ Free Yoga Day at Colburn Earth the Waynesville Upcoming Events at Osondu Booksellers How to place an Recreation Center event/classified Science Museum (All events at Osondu Booksellers, 184 N. Main, Waynesville Thursday, August 2 unless otherwise noted.) listing with Rapid Raffl ing $1000 Jewelry Come enjoy one hour of FREE River Art Magazine Piece to Benefi t Ashtanga Yoga to celebrate Friday, August 3, 6-8:30pm Educational Programs the beginning of a new series Gala Authors Reception at Osondu Booksellers - an evening of Donated by Susan Marie Any “free” event open to of classes at the Waynesville good music, good drink and good company as Book Mania authors Designs of Biltmore Village, Recreation Center. This will take meet and greet ticketed patrons in our tea and wine café. Tickets at the public can be listed at the piece, worth more than place from 9 - 10 am. $15 each may be purchased at the store, by phone at 456-8062 or no charge up to 30 words. $1,000, Ashtanga Yoga (Power Yoga) is a online at www.osondubooksellers.com. For all other events there is features a hot, fun, challenging and flowing Monday, August 13, 7pm a $9.95 charge up to 30 gold necklace form of Hatha Yoga which brings and a gold Osondu’s Women’s Book club will discuss Bel Canto by Ann words and 10 cents for the body, mind and spirit into pendant with alignment and function. Pachette, an immensely readable novel in which opera and each additional word. a dazzling terrorism make strange but ultimately compatible bedfellows. The class will take place on 160 word limit per event. garnet and diamond. Thursdays from 9 - 10 am Saturday, August 18, 7-9pm Deadline is the 19th of each beginning August 2. Participants Osondu Booksellers and Mountain Writers Alive will host a party Tickets are month. Payment must be will need to bring water and a mat. for Book Mania volunteers at our tea and wine café. The many $5 each, Also, wear comfortable clothing. made prior to printing. local patrons who help move books, tables and chairs, prepared and you The cost for the class will be and brought authors’ lunches, commandeered authors to and Email Beth Gossett at: can buy six tickets for $25. $5 per class for members of the from presentations and book fair guests around the premises will [email protected] The drawing will be held Waynesville Recreation Center deserve a special night of food and fun. Audrey Lawrence will be August 1. All raffle proceeds or mail to: 85 N. Main St, and $6 for non-members. For our guest musician. will benefit Earth science more information please call Canton, NC 28716. Or Call: education programs at the Rebecca Boswell at 456-2030 or Monday, August 20, 7pm (828) 646-0071 to place ad Colburn Earth Science email her at wrcasst.programs@ Our Non-Fiction Book Club will meet to discuss their month’s over the phone. Museum, an Asheville charterinternet.com or call Mary selection. institution since 1960. Alice at 280-7599 or email prana_ Tuesday, August 28, 7pm Located in downtown [email protected] Asheville in the Pack Place Our All Gender, All Genre Book Club will meet to discuss their – DISCLAIMER – month’s selection. building, the Colburn Earth Family in the Park Day Due to the overwhelming Science Museum is open www.osdonsubooksellers.com number of local event submis- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday Saturday, August 4 sions we get for our “What to through Saturday, and 1 to 5 From 9 am - 3pm at Vance Street Do Guide” each month, we can p.m. Sunday. The museum Park. Great fun for all ages! national historical register. lots of family fun in store! Mark no longer accept entries that will be closed July 27 through The church is located in your calendars for Saturday, The event is free to the general August 11 at French Broad River do not specifically follow our 29 for Bele Chere. public. There will also be door Asheville just off South Charlotte Street at Max Street on the hill Park – the fun starts at 11:00am. publication’s format. Non-paid To buy a raffle ticket or get prizes for a free one month event listings must be 30 words membership to the Waynesville across from the Asheville Public The public will be invited to more information, stop by the Works Building (1 Dundee St.). or less and both paid and non- Museum or contact Colburn Recreation Center. This event bring a raft, homemade or store is free to the general public. For Shuttle parking is available from bought, and float down the paid listings must provide infor- Earth Science Museum the Public Works parking lot on mation in the following format: Communications Manager more information please call Tim river to French Broad River South Charlotte St. Park. Non-profit organizations date, time, brief description of Felicity Green at 254-7162, Plowman at 456-2030 or email [email protected] [email protected] entering a raft in the race what your event is and any con- are eligible to win free radio tact information. Any entries not or museum.colburn@gmail. The Many Faces of com. advertising campaigns! following this format will not be Chamber Music Concert Asheville Tour considered for publication. www.colburnmuseum.org Wednesday, August 8 Rafts will be welcomed by great Sunday, August 5 music provided by Musician's The Biltmore Brass Quintet will 8:45 - 3:30, $30.00 a person Workshop Battle of the Bands, present a concert on Sunday, (includes lunch). This day local food vendors, local artists, August 5 at 3:00 PM at St. long trip looks at the historic face painting and games for Matthias Church in Asheville. The and contemporary immigrant kids, a pet social, fishing and program will include works by communities with stops at boating demos, and much more. Monteverdi, Gabrielli and Peter Houses of Worship, historic Everyone's invited to the park for Warlock. The players are: Bill cemeteries and a downtown a fun time! Ross and Casey Coppenbarger, walking tour. For more Writers Who Just Want to Have Fun trumpets; Hobart Whitman, information call 232-5024. Please see www.riverlink.org Presented by the Center for for raft race registration. Please The Rapid River is searching for talented writers horn; Linda Davis, trombone; and Kermit Solesby, tuba. Diversity Education. see www.965woxl.com for who enjoy interviewing performers, talking to film actors, sponsorship information, and and writing stories on up-coming plays. There is no charge for the vendor and band applications. concert, but a free will offering Rockin’ River Fest Interested? will be taken for the restoration Sponsored by Classic Hits 96.5 of the beautiful and historic Saturday, August 11 WOXL and RiverLink Call 828-646-0071, or e-mail [email protected] church. St. Matthias' Church is The annual Rockin' River Fest with samples of your work. over 100 years old and is on the and Raft Race is back again with

AUGUST EVENTS ~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~ CLASSIFIEDS 28 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™

Quilting Class at Old contact Michael Huffstetler Ongoing Studio and at (828) 456-6322, Monday Blue Ridge Performing Armory Recreation Center at the Old Armory Recreation Critique Classes through Friday from 1-5pm. The Arts Center Thursdays from 9 am - 2 pm. Center at 456-9207. 10:00 to 3:00, $25.00 each Performing Arts Center is located session, call or email for dates. at 250 Pigeon St. in downtown August 4: Reagan Boggs The Old Armory Recreation Waynesville. Center will offer a quilting class. Art Classes for Adults at For more information call Fleta August 10: Buddy Carol Jamie There is no charge for the class. River’s Edge Studio Monaghan at 828-776- August 11: The Cold For more information please We are pleased to announce 2716 or email fleta@ Mountain Bluegrass Band contact Georgia Guidroz at 926- summer's end classes in Painting fletamonaghan.com. See 0118 or Michael Huffstetler at summer class schedule August 17: David Childers and Drawing for Adults in a 456-9207. working artist’s studio in the and registration at www. & The Modern Don Juans fletamonaghan.com (WNCW is the media sponsor) River Arts District of Asheville. Painting is taught by Fleta August 18: David Wilcox Volunteers Needed for Anne Frank: A History Monaghan, and drawing by Neil Simon’s August 24: GAG ORDER! Constance Humphries. Explore for Today your creativity, draw the figure JAKE’S WOMEN August 25: Dave Desmelik September 30 - November 9 and learn art history with others! Aug. 31 - Sept. 9 August 31 - September 2: Biltmore Square Mall, www. Classes are for all levels of The Haywood Arts A Waste is a Terrible Thing annefrank-wnc.org or call 232- experience, from beginner Regional Theater to Mind: A one man play 5024. Presented by the Center and up. Our aim is to help the presents “Jake’s Women” starring local actor/comedian for Diversity Education. aspiring artist improve skills and the story of a man Jason Denton develop a unique personal style. haunted by the various women in his life. Our theatre is smoke-free. Ultimate Frisbee Self Portrait/Figure Drawing - Performances are Aug. Purchase tickets via telephone Sunday evenings at 7 pm Sat. Aug 4th from 10:00 To 4:00, by calling (828) 693-0087. 31, Sept. 1, 6, 7, and 9, The Waynesville Parks and $70.00 includes model fee. 7:30pm, and Sundays 538 N. Main Street, corner Recreation Department will offer Cubism and Modernism - Sept. 2 and 9 at 3pm. of 6th & Main, across the exciting sport of ultimate For reservations call from Mast General Store. frisbee on Sunday evenings at 7 Fri. and Sat. Aug 17th and the HART Box Office Hendersonville, NC 28739. beginning August 22, (828) 693-0087 www.BRPAC.org Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins

Free Planet Radio Sunday, August 19 4:00 pm (early show!) $10 admission. $10 CDs will be available. Grey Eagle Music Hall, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC. (828) 232-5800, www.thegreyeagle.com

Howl-In Saturday, By Amy Downs August Asheville Area Arts Council 25th Full Moon eight0seven – Sean Pace and Brian Mashburn Farm Friday, August 3rd Wolfdog Please join us in the Front Gallery at 11 Biltmore Avenue on Rescue and Friday, August 3rd at 5:30 p.m. for the opening of sculptors Sean Sancutary ‘Jinx’ Pace and Brian Mashburn in their show entitled eight0seven. will hold a howl-in Sean ‘Jinx’ Pace has had a prolific local career since graduating and open with distinction from the University of North Carolina in house for Asheville. His work blurs the lines between art and life as he the public. engages the imagination of his audience. With every piece he Tours start writes a specific artist statement that explains that piece alone. at 3:00 pm Sean covers political, spiritual, social and personal content with his and potluck supper will begin pm until dark at the Waynesville 18th 10:00 to 4:00, $130.00 work. includes all material. Learn about at 5:00pm. Cost $5.00 includes Recreation Center Athletic Field This will be the first exhibit in Asheville for Brian Mashburn. Perry's Barbecue and soft drinks. located at 550 Vance Street in Cubism and other important art movements and create an art A graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill with a BFA in 2D design, For more information and Waynesville. There is no cost to he maintained a booth space at Kress Emporium for 2005. Brian directions call 828-669-1818 or play and all ages are welcomed. work in the tradition of early 20th century art. embraces many ideas and motivations into an ambiguous aesthetic. 669-0706. For more information please

CLASSES ~ LECTURES ~ ARTS & CRAFTS ~ READINGS Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 29 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE FINE ART UNCA Home to “School of Athens” oaring 47 feet above UNC content," he said. "It is a celebration of identity of some of Asheville’s Highsmith University learning and the liberal arts." the figures, others Union Café is a stunning recreation And like so much of what happens are recognizable, of Raphael's masterpiece painting in the liberal arts, Cooke didn’t work including Epicurus, "School of Athens." The large alone. For more than 18 months, some Pythagoras, mural, considered to be one of 50 students, faculty, staff, alumni and Heraclitus and the biggest recreations in the world, was community members worked together Ptolemy. Sunveiled in February. Since then, no for over 15,000 hours on the project. Under the tour of Asheville's art scene is complete The mural is made up of 4-foot-square watchful gaze of without a stop at UNC Asheville to panels, each painted by different artists. these great thinkers, experience the "School of Athens" vibrant The completed mural is 40-by-37 feet, students eat, relax colors, expansive scale and exquisite comprising 60 separate canvases. It is and study. UNC detail. positioned 10 feet above the floor of the Asheville's liberal arts "It is truly difficult to understand café and reaches to the skylights. tradition encourages and appreciate the grandness of this "This is something I have always students to take work of art without seeing it in person," dreamed of doing," said Asheville artist advantage of every said S. Tucker Cooke, lead artist on the Gloria Gaffney. "When I heard that learning opportunity project and retired UNC Asheville art Tucker had gotten started, I wanted – both inside and professor. "Most art lovers have seen to join in. It was like working in a outside the classroom. photos of 'School of Athens' in books, Renaissance atelier." And therefore, but those images are so small – barely While tradition reigned, the painters the Highsmith bigger than a postage stamp. Seeing this did make one addition to the original. University Union painting depicted in consistent scale with Two English bulldogs were added to Café has become the original is very special – and you don't the lower left-hand corner of the mural UNC Asheville's own have to travel to Rome to experience it!" in tribute to Rocky, UNC Asheville's "School of Athens," The "School of mascot. where students debate Athens" mural is just In the center and discuss topics one example of Cooke’s of the "School of ranging from current talent for inspiration Athens" stand Plato events to the arts to and collaboration. and Aristotle who sciences until the wee Cooke conceived of exemplify the liberal hours of the night. the project more than arts tradition, one to The Highsmith two years ago when the which UNC Asheville University Union University asked him to is deeply committed. is open 7:30 a.m.- create artwork for the Surrounding Plato midnight weekdays and 9 a.m.-midnight If you go vast wall space in the and Aristotle are weekends when classes are session. Highsmith University some of the greatest Visitors who wish to view "School of A campus map is available online at: Union Café. Cooke, a philosophers, scientists Athens" may park in the 15-minute visitor www.unca.edu/campusmap/. talented painter, chose and mathematicians parking spaces in front of the building. Driving directions to UNC Asheville to reproduce Raphael’s of the classical world. Those who wish to stay longer are invited are available online at: www.unca.edu/ 1510 fresco for its Though scholars to obtain a parking pass from the Campus welcome/directions.html. "beauty, depth and disagree on the Police Office. For more information, call the Highsmith University Union at 828/232-5000.

The Appalachian Artisan Society Gallery (TAAS) expands he TAAS-Gallery punched TAAS-Fine woodworking nationally recognized wild life artist and through the adjoining wall Art celebrates and jewelry member of TAAS Gallery. The drawing is between its current 3,000 sq. ft. local talent from 63 a fundraiser provided by TAAS-Gallery for gallery space and the adjoining and intends members. the rebuilding of Davidson’s Fort, a project building to open up a new Fine to provide art On August of local residents banding together to Art gallery space. The new space buyers with a 25, 2007, TAAS- recreate the historic Fort, the namesake of adds an additional 1,500 sq. ft. of retail large selection of Gallery will Old Fort. Once completed, the Davidson’s Tspace. original art from celebrate the Fort will be a historic tourist destination “This new addition has an entirely a wide variety new expansion and educational centerpiece for the WNC different feel to it”, explains co-owner, of quality local with a Grand region. Dru Heldman. “We are calling the new artist and styles. Opening. This project is important for all building the TAAS-Fine Art Gallery. We Already, in the With only a WNC residents as it will help preserve have fitted the open floor space with room new gallery short history and educate generations to come of the for 70+ new artists. The artist displays are are 20 artist under its belt, struggles that took place here. Tickets are designed to be non-intrusive and blend displays with TAAS-Gallery on sale now for $5 and all proceeds go into the background, an authentic old brick local landscapes, is already well toward the Davidson Fort project. The building. This building is brimming with caricatures, known for its prize has been donated by the Gallery and magnificent character with a very warm contemporary art, wild-life paintings, commitment to the community. During is valued at $595. and relaxed feel to it. The open room has warm cozy pastels and vivid watercolor the grand opening day celebration, they original hard wood floors and bead-board paintings. TAAS-Gallery’s main gallery will draw for the grand prize, a limited wood ceiling.” now is comprised of handcrafts, pottery, edition framed print by Bob Travers, ‘TAAS’ continued on pg 32 30 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE

For the latest reviews, theater info and AAUGUSTUGUST MOVIESMOVIES movie show times, visit wwithith MMARCIANNEARCIANNE MMILLERILLER www.rapidrivermagazine.com

SSizzleizzle Luna Lovegood stars in aandnd Harry Potter and the Order SSplashplash of the Phoenix.

∑∑∑∑∑-Fantastic In her dying days, thrice-married An equally beautiful blonde (yes, blonde) ∑∑∑∑-Pretty darn good Ann Grant Lord (Vanessa Redgrave) leading the forces of change is none other ∑∑∑ fades in and out of reality, calling out than Motormouth Maybelle (dazzling -Has some good points for an unknown man named “Harris,” Queen Latifah), the hostess of the ∑∑-The previews lied claiming he was the only man she station’s “Negro Day.” The young guys ∑-Only if you must ever truly loved. Needless to say, this are all adorable: TV host Corny Collins confounds her two daughters gathered at (Greg Marsden), too-cute heartthrob M-Forget entirely her deathbed. Older daughter Constance Link (Zac Efron) and suave dancemeister (Natasha Richardson, real-life daughter Seaweed (Elijah Kelley). Everyone sings of Redgrave) is even-keeled and mature, up a storm and dances their hearts out A hankie-weeper with style, a married, and the mother of two. Nina and no one cries too much — it’s the hilarious retro-musical, a magical (Toni Collette) is a commitophobe who most fun I’ve had a movie in years! With coming of age tale, a feel-good flaunts her hurts like neon nose rings. a palette of eye-popping hues, drop- The sisters’ bickering is annoyingly paint- Hairspray dead gorgeous costumes and electrifying straight comedy about being gay, by-number, but it’s relieved, mercifully, performances, choreographer/director and a blistering action blockbuster by some truly touching intimate scenes ∑∑∑∑∑ Adam Shankman has created a perfect — it’s a great mixed bag of movies each has one-on-one with her mother. Short take: Baltimore survives the summer bonbon. Enjoy! for summer’s end. Guest critic As Ann sinks ever closer to the white- growing pains of integration in the Rated PG for language, some suggestive Marcianne Miller fills in for sequined Angel of Death, she flashbacks 60s with stiff hair, fabulous jewelry, content and momentary teen smoking. to her most life-affirming time — the vacationing Beth Gossett. singable tunes, and wild interracial weekend of her aristocratic friend’s dancing. wedding and a passionate one-night love Harry Potter and the affair. It’s sweet. It’s silly. It’s subversive. Order of the Phoenix She remembers when decades ago Hairspray is totally wonderful. Grab the youthful Ann (Claire Danes) revels your goofy friends and rush to theatres. ∑∑∑∑1/2 in her vitality and optimism. Her friend This updated version of John Water’s Short take: Teenage wizards learn and bride-to-be Lila (Mamie Dugger, 1988 paean to the early 60s is the most that growing up means taking Meryl Streep’s lovely real-life daughter) is delightful flick of the year. responsibility. a wreck with pre-wedding jitters because During the JFK years, Baltimore is a grubby metropolis confused about Like adolescents everywhere, Harry she’s in love with her childhood friend, Potter and his friends have reached an Harris (Patrick Wilson) not her fiancé. racial equality. Teens roost in front of their black-and-white TV sets to watch age where showing off and talking about She feels obligated to go through with how brave they are just won’t cut it the wedding that her mother (Glenn the Corny Collins show and get their daily infusion of the latest fashions and anymore — harsh reality is looming and Close) has so meticulously arranged. growing up means they have to learn one Evening Accompanying Ann is Lila’s brother, the dance steps. Dreaming about dancing on the show is irrepressibly plump Tracy major life principle — some things are oh-so-charming but dyspeptic Buddy, worth fighting for. In their case, Lord ∑∑∑1/2 played with unforgettable poignancy by Turnblad (vivacious newcomer Nikki Blonsky). Mom Edna (John Travolta Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) is looming Short take: A dying woman’s rev- charismatic Hugh Dancy. on Hogwart’s horizon, but Harry has elation of a secret love affects her The weekend proceeds with love in hilariously believable drag), and Dad Wilbur (Christopher Walken) aren’t trouble getting anyone to believe the grieving daughters. and tragedy achingly intertwined amidst threat is real because the ostrich-in-the- gorgeous scenery wrought by Hungarian sure how to handle their daughter or the Critics claim Evening shamelessly changing world outside their apartment. sand Ministry of Magic refuses to face the rolls out more varieties of victimhood cinematographer turned director Lajos truth. Instead they’ve set up a Kafkaesque Koltai. Arriving in the nick of time to Punished in school for her “inappropriate than a 12-step marathon. But for people hair height,” Tracy is sent to detention new bureaucracy at the school, imposing who have cared for a dying parent, the give a final girly hug is the contemporary endless restrictions and making life Lila played by Meryl Streep. Though at — which is where the African American movie packs a painfully true emotional students gather — and from them she miserable for poor Harry and all the other wallop. Evening makes us uncomfortable times disjointed, treacly and predictable, students who are struggling to pass their moments in Evening linger, thanks to the rapidly makes new friends and adds cool because it dramatizes what most of us steps to her dancing repertoire. Trouble final exams. prefer to repress — the admission of our intensity of its performances.Don’t miss But Harry and his brave band form it when it comes out on DVD. brews. mistakes in life. But as the movie reveals, Society’s problems are played out at the rebellion and together they learn when dementia releases inhibitions, pent- Rated PG-13 for some thematic elements, the TV station. Station manager Velma the skills they’ll need to defend the up regrets come rushing out like a raging sexual material, a brief accident scene and Von Tussel (Michelle Pfeiffer in sublime world against evil. Just because they live flood and God help those who can’t run language. bitchiness) hides her reactionary nastiness fast enough to escape. behind the best jewelry in movie history. ‘Movies’ continued on pg 32

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 31 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE

‘Landscapes’ continued from pg 10 agrarian earth-tones that softens and FILM REVIEWS smoothes the structures into almost organic constructs. Many of his ‘Movies’ continued from pg 31 paintings originate from plan, section in order to protect the children of one Chuck is tempted to be disloyal to his or elevation sketches, but as layers of of them — the movie never took cheap friend Larry — not half-naked Jessica paint are built up onto the original in a magical world doesn’t mean war is shots, never descended to the offensive, Biel, not discrimination from fellow sketches they become abstract and any less scary--in fact it’s worse. Their never got smirky. It came close, but firefighters, not even being thrown in jail organic. Ultimately Peter creates enemies aren’t terrorists who can just kill never did. Plus I have this thing about — nothing can make him renege on his paintings that wed the rich natural your bodies; they’re monsters who can firemen — you’d think at my age I’d have agreement with his good friend. Hokey? earth, upon which they rest, with the steal your souls as well. outgrown it, but, well, I haven’t — thus Yes. Nice? Yes — and that’s why I loved man-made buildings, which originally So it’s on to the classic hero’s journey any movie about firemen automatically it. inspire his paintings. for the young wizards and the result is goes up a point or two! Rated PG-13 for crude sexual content The wide range and allure of a marvelous tale--beautiful, touching, Because of a quirk in the law, throughout, nudity, language and drug contemporary landscape painting charming, sweet and thoughtful--not to Brooklyn firefighter Larry Valentine references. including plen-air painting using mention downright scary. Everyone does (Kevin James, the sexiest chubby guy on traditional oils, impressionistic an amazing the planet), grieving widower and father landscapes using encaustic, to abstract job and of two, can’t change the beneficiary listing architectural landscapes are on display new Potter in his pension — so if he dies on the at Bella Vista Art Gallery in Biltmore director job, his kids won’t get the money due Village. David Yates them. He convinces his best friend and proves he’s firefighting partner, Chuck Levine (Adam up to the Sandler), who is a notorious womanizer, ‘Storytelling’ continued from pg 26 monumental to sign a domestic partnership agreement task. (See that will insure benefits for the kids. It’s Farm History Sierra supposed to be a secret. But because, in Listed on the National Register Bicking’s truth, it’s potentially fraudulent, they of Historic Places, Johnson Farm was review end up triggering an investigation that a late 19th century tobacco farm that below.) sets life-style snoop Clinton Fitzer (Steve became a popular summer tourist My only Buscemi) on their trail and life turns into retreat. Today it is owned by the complaint, a grievous gay witchhunt. To their rescue Henderson County Public Schools. and thus a comes traffic-stopping gorgeous attorney This heritage education center is deduction of Alex McDonough (Jessica Biel) who Live Free or Die Hard Chuck falls madly in love with, but of a project of the non-profit Henderson half a point, ∑∑∑∑1/2 County Education Foundation. It is that in the course, can’t touch because he’s supposed was a gift to area schoolchildren by rush to be compact, (this is the shortest to be gay. Short take: An aging bald cop part- the late Vernon and Leander Johnson. Potter film yet), a few holes were left ners with a young wimp hacker to Call 828-891-6585 for info, or www. unfilled and some characters, such as save the world from techno greed- historicjohnsonfarm.org Address: Hagrid, and Sybil Trelawney were given meisters. short shrift and of course there’s never 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville, Does the fourth entry in the Die NC 28791. enough time given to cinema’s favorite nasty, Alan Rickman who plays Professor Hard franchise regain the greatness of the Severus Snape. The newest entry, white- 1988 debut that starred a hunky 33-year- If you go haired Luna Lovegood (Evanna Lynch) is old Bruce Willis and major British bad guy Alan Rickman (whose character, Hans Storytelling Festival so lovely however, that she makes up for almost all my complaints. Gruber, was recently voted one of the Saturday, Sept. 22, 10 am to 4 pm best villains of all time)? No, it doesn’t. Admission prices and hours: Rated PG-13 for sequences of fantasy Die Hard One remains supreme with its Scary Stories around the Campfire violence and frightening images. setting, cast of characters, and newness. - Friday: Sept. 21, 7:30-9 pm. But this latest entry is a helluva $3 Adults, $2 Grades K-12. . good action flick with the stunts just as $18 adults all day, $10 morning or I Now Pronounce You Chuck outrageous as the competition, Bruce afternoon session. Students K-12 $9 and Larry ∑∑∑∑1/2 Willis is just as engaging old and bald as all day, $5 morning or afternoon; Short Take: Straight guys take loyalty he was in his younger years, Justin Long Preschool free. and male bonding to the limit and makes an appealing second banana, and Food information: Catered by Perry’s bad guy Timothy Olyphant, although not overcome anti-gay discrimination. as memorable as Rickman, is certainly BBQ of Black Mountain for purchase. Based on the previews, I never $5 for full meal and beverage. more impressive than the villains in most thought I would like this movie. Surprise action flicks days. The bottom line is Bring a folding chair or blanket. Please With shades of Mr. Deeds Goes to — I loved it! Which is saying a lot for Washington, Some Like It Hot, The Odd — you get your money’s worth. no pets, coolers, alcohol or tobacco. a movie that happens to be, at times, Couple and every buddy movie ever Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of moronically stupid. But Chuck and Larry made, director Dennis Dugan manages did something surprising — considering violence and action, language and a brief to pull off a comedy that’s actually funny sexual situation. ‘TAAS’ continued from pg 30 that its premise is two straight single most of the time and even has some guys have to act like a gay married couple meaning. For no matter how severely If you go By now you’ve no doubt heard how the Potter series of books ended, Should you spend your money on Event Details: Saturday, August 25th who lived, who died, how the Muggles and the wizards will learn to live a recent theatrical released movie from 10:00 – 6:00 TAAS Gallery together. A tip for adults: If you’ve avoided reading the Potter books that’s now out on DVD? Check our members will be demonstrating their art or crafts. Hors d’oeuvres, because of time, don’t deny yourself any longer. Read them on tape previous movie reviews at www. music, and the drawing for the while you drive/clean house, etc. rapidrivermagazine.com. Davidson’s Fort grand prize. For more English actor Jim Dale is positively a wizard himself, creating the voices Marcianne Miller is an Asheville-based information call (828) 668-1070 or for over 200 characters since the series began. You can buy the books writer and movie critic. Contact her at visit www.taasg.com. TAAS-Gallery is located on Hwy-70 East Main Street on tape or rent them for free at the library. [email protected] in the heart of downtown Old Fort. 32 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS Hendersonville Film Lillian Gish: Film Pioneer and Film Preservationist Now on Dvd Society: August 2007 BY CHIP KAUFMANN BY CHIP KAUFMANN Romance is in the air for the month illian Gish (1893-1993), our reporter what questions of August at HFS as we present four films who died just short of to ask. I have been a fan of that celebrate a love of things past, a love her 100th birthday, had silent films since 1962. She that reaches out from beyond, real life the longest career of talked about her long career star-crossed lovers and soul mates from any major star in movie and the need to preserve films different class backgrounds. history. She made her for everyone. Fortunately she first screen appearance at the lived long enough to see the AUGUST 5 Lage of 19 in D.W. Griffith’s AN video revolution and was able RADIO DAYS UNSEEN ENEMY in 1912 to add introductions to her Woody Allen’s highly imaginative and made her last in 1987 in greatest films. (and largely autobiographical) look at THE WHALES OF AUGUST when remembered. That is until now. Today’s In addition to the aforementioned the era when radio was king features an she was 94. Do the math and you’ll see video technology makes it possible for silent films, there are several of her later ensemble cast and glorious 1940s music. that adds up to an unbelievable 75 years her great performances from the silent sound films now out on DVD as well. Part tribute, part memoir RADIO DAYS in front of the camera. era to be seen in restored editions that They include THE UNFORGIVEN is above all a very special film. With Mia Yet not all of those years were capture not only the picture quality (1960) with Burt Lancaster and Audrey Farrow, Diane Keaton, Jeff Daniels and in front of a camera. She was also an but the range of her acting ability as Hepburn, alongside Elizabeth Taylor and Allen himself as narrator. accomplished stage actress who spent well. Films such as 1919’s BROKEN Richard Burton in THE COMEDIANS most of the 1930s in New York after BLOSSOMS (the movie that made her a (1967), and the recently released Robert DIR: Woody Allen. her movie career had come to a sudden full fledged star in her own right), WAY Altman’s A WEDDING (1978) featuring 1987 USA Color 96 minutes. halt. It wasn’t that she couldn’t make DOWN EAST (1920) and the soon to an all-star ensemble cast headed by Carol AUGUST 12 the transition from silents to talkies but be released TRUE HEART SUSIE (also Burnett. Check out these titles if you PHOTOGRAPHING FAIRIES because as one of the most independent 1919) are now available for everyone to get the chance to see what a wide variety women in Hollywood (she had her own see. of films she appeared in. After all how This beautifully mounted period production unit at MGM as well as script Living as long as she did, Gish was many actresses can say that they worked piece is like a cross between FAIRY and director approval) she frequently not only a survivor from the silent era for D.W. Griffith, John Huston, Lindsay TALE and SOMEWHERE IN TIME. was at odds with Louis B. Mayer who but became a tireless advocate for film Anderson and Robert Altman. None. A young photographer who has recently wanted women to be stars but little else preservation both silent and sound. I had lost his wife specializes in exposing fake and so she was let go. the good fortune to see her in person at spiritualists. When a picture offers proof of By the 1940s she had returned a press conference in Charleston S.C. in a world of fairies and spirits, he is drawn to Hollywood as a much in demand 1980. She was 86 years old at the time Chip Kaufmann is President of into a web of passion and intrigue. With character actress and it is for these and had come to Charleston to make a Toby Stephens, Emily Woof and Ben performances in movies such as DUEL TV movie called THIN ICE with Kate the Hendersonville Film Society Kingsley. IN THE SUN (1946), PORTRAIT OF Jackson who was then at the height and hosts a classical music pro- DIR: Nick Willing. JENNIE (1949), and especially THE of her fame as one of CHARLIE’S gram Thursday nights from 7-10 1998 England Color 107 minutes. NIGHT OF THE HUNTER (1955) ANGELS. I was a sound technician for on public radio station WCQS. AUGUST 19 with Robert Mitchum that she is best the local public radio station and told MAYERLING One of history’s most tragic love stories became TEEN CORNER: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix one of the cinema’s most exquisite romances in this original French version of the story of Archduke Harry Potter and the Potter and the Order of the romance, impressive acting, and special Rudolph and Marie Vestera. Filmed Order of the Phoenix Phoenix, and this time he’s effects. You name it, this film has it. with a dream like beauty and filled with Starring: Daniel faced with even more evil. Somehow the director managed to pack music, MAYERLING made a matinee Radcliffe, Rupert Wicked Lord Voldemort an 870 page book into a 138 minute idol out of Charles Boyer and showcased Grint, Emma Watson, (Ralph Fiennes) has indeed movie, the shortest movie of the series the beautiful French actress Danielle Imelda Staunton, returned, and is even more so far. Its only shortcoming was that at Darrieux. powerful. Harry, (Daniel times it was really hard to understand Ralph Fiennes, Michael Radcliffe) who has been what the actors were saying, since they DIR: Anatole Litvak. 1935 France English Gambon, Gary Oldman. w/subtitles B/W 90 minutes. Lord Voldemort’s target for spoke so fast and with accents. Also, ∑∑∑∑∑ Film fan and movie a long time, joins up with the movie is confusing for people who AUGUST 26 the Order of the Phoenix, have not read the Harry Potter series, THE STUDENT PRINCE critic Sierra Bicking a group of wizards and or haven’t seen the movies. But even if Sigmund Romberg’s beloved operetta Wizards, witches, and lives in Asheville witches formed to fight you’re unfamiliar with Harry Potter, the about a prince in love with a barmaid is Muggles alike, want to Lord Voldemort’s forces. movie will still be enjoyable because of given the royal Hollywood treatment in see a movie that will leave And just to add a little flavor to this the magic and suspense. So grab your this 1954 adaptation that features the voice you spellbound to your seat? A film that spinning cauldron of mystery and fear, broomsticks and fly over to your local of legendary tenor Mario Lanza (whose makes you want to fly right over to the the Ministry of Magic has sent viciously theater. Even if you don’t believe in weight problem kept him off the screen). bookstore to buy the sixth book in the sweet Professor Umbridge (Imelda magic, it’s worth entering the magical Well known songs include “Golden Days”, series, as well as the seventh when it Staunton) to Hogwarts to gain control world of wizards, even if it’s just for two “Serenade”, “Deep In My Heart”, and conveniently comes out two weeks after over the school. Harry soon learns the hours. “Drink! Drink! Drink!” With Edmund the movie opens? Then apparate right meaning of friendship, as he and his into the theaters, for this is a movie you Rated PG-13 for sequences of fantasy Purdom (standing in for Lanza) and Ann friends battle the evil both within the violence and frightening images. Blyth (who sings her own songs). will not want to miss. school and without. DIR: Richard Thorpe. Oh yes, Harry Potter has returned This movie is fantastic. It has 1954 USA Color 107 minutes. in the fifth movie of the series, Harry everything: magic, suspense, mystery,

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 33 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE SSTAGETAGE PPREVIEWREVIEW 35below Closes Season with 11 Performances Over 17 Days! BY JENNY BUNN he Late Night Comedy Series at prior to the improv shows on those humor which is perfect for an audience seem like a hobby, but they treat it like 35below blazes into August with nights. His clean, intelligent set has been of all ages. This fast moving, funny show an art form! The OxyMorons bring their 11 different performances over seen throughout the Southeast with is just the thing for families looking for a brand of boisterous comedy to the stage 17 days from 4 different local frequent performances in Charlotte and unique night out together. on Saturday, August 11th and Thursday, comedy troupes, a local stand-up Atlanta. Greg is the founder of the Laugh The Feral Chihuahuas are an August 16th and Saturday, August 18th. comic, and the funniest teenagers Your Asheville Off festival. Asheville based sketch troupe with a Gag Order is a Hendersonville in Asheville. Performances New for August are two wickedly funny brand of sketch comedy. based improv troupe formed by actors Twill occur on Wednesday, Thursday, performances of Laugh Free or Die Hard, This summer, they have frequently associated with the Hendersonville Little Friday and Saturday nights at 9:00 pm a two man sketch show starring Tom sold out their 9:00 pm performances, Theater, ranging in age from twenties to from August 2 – August 18. The Feral Chalmers and Scott Bunn. Most recently so don’t wait to get your tickets for this sixties and by profession from a salesman Chihuahuas, The OxyMorons and Gag seen at North Carolina Stage Company’s hilarious and successful troupe. The Feral and a marketing specialist to educators, Order will rotate performances over three No Shame Chihuahuas a singer, a pediatrician and more. weekends. They are joined by stand- Theatre, will perform Gag Order will bring the laughter on up comic Greg Brown, a sketch show Tom and 4 different local comedy troupes, Friday, Saturday, August 4th, Thursday, August starring Tom Chalmers and Scott Bunn, Scott will August 9th and Saturday, August 18th. and a performance from ACT’s Comedy perform a local stand-up comic, and the 3rd, Friday, For Teens class. The final performance sketches that August 10th, for the series will be an OxyMorons/ are peppered funniest teenagers in Asheville. and Friday, If you go Gag Order improv extravaganza, with with original August 17th. both groups performing together in one songs and These shows Tickets for any show during the big show. Tickets are $10 and will be unusual situations. Laugh Free or Die will be filmed and broadcast on URTV to Late Night Comedy Series are $10. sold in advance through the Asheville Hard will be performed on Wednesday, embrace an even larger audience. Reservations are strongly recommended. Community Theatre Box Office. August 8th and Wednesday, August 15th. The OxyMorons Improv Comedy Box office hours are noon - 6 pm, Remaining tickets will be sold in the Asheville Community Theatre’s Troupe has performed approximately one Monday-Friday. For more information 35below lobby. Comedy for Teens class will perform thousand shows at seven different, steady Asheville resident and stand-up improv comedy on Thursday, August venues, as well as numerous charity please call 828-254-1320. comic Greg Brown will perform Saturday 2nd. These seven rising stars range in events, special parties, and at least one nights August 4, 11 and 18 at 9:00 pm age from 13-15 and have a sharp, smart major improv comedy festival. It may

Asheville Community Theatre Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance Announces 62nd Season To Host Creative Auction

Asheville Community Theatre sisters attempting to throw together erpsicorps Theatre of Dance is upcoming production. Each auction is proud to announce their slate “Fayro Days,” a huge festival to impress a hosting a very unique auction winner will receive dinner and bottle of of six Mainstage productions, visiting V.I.P. where those who participate wine with their companion, as well as two three 35below productions and Up next is the spine-tingling Wait go home with more than just a tickets to The Scarlet Letter. two Special Events that will Until Dark, which starred Quentin nice dinner and theatre tickets. The auction will be emceed by make up their 62nd season. Tarantino in the Broadway revival. The highest bidders also get to Asheville’s “Unsung Hero” (Mountain This season includes another World Asheville Community Theatre welcomes purchase their companion for Xpress, 2006) and NC Stage Artistic PremiereA and two North Carolina back Ralph Redpath to direct this Tthe evening! On Wednesday, August 1st Director Charlie Flynn-McIver. Premieres, a large scale musical, a small suspenseful thriller that builds toward an at 7:30pm in the downstairs lobby of the Auctionees up for grabs include songbirds musical, an American classic, a thriller, a electrifying, heart-stopping end. Diana Wortham Theatre, Terpsicorps Katie Kasben and Molly Kummerle farce and an adaptation of a well-known The fourth show of the Mainstage will hold a fundraiser auctioning off local (from Ruby Slippers), Harry Brown and television show. season is Schoolhouse Rock Live! Based celebrities for a night of dinner, wine and Terpsicorps’ own Heather Maloy. Music The 62nd season of the downtown on the popular television show, this pop the company’s latest show, The Scarlet will feature the sounds of DJ Bowie and playhouse will open with Disney’s culture phenomenon is infectiously fun! Letter. food for both the event and the dinners Beauty and the Beast on Friday, The Philadelphia Story, the classic “We really wanted to make this will be donated by a variety of Asheville’s September 14th. Asheville Community screwball comedy about an upper class fundraiser different, since it is benefiting finest restaurants. Sponsors include Theatre will continue their tradition society beauty, is fifth on the Mainstage, such an original performance,” said Biltmore Wine Company, Asheville Pizza of a reception with complementary followed by the hilarious farce I Hate Terpsicorps Managing Director, Lucia Del and Brewing Company, Zambra, Vigne, champagne and light hors d’oeuvres Hamlet in which a soap opera actor Vecchio. Grover Corner Market, Laurey’s Catering. for each Opening Night. Tickets for wrestles with his conscience, the ghost The production of The Scarlet Letter the season are currently on sale for of John Barrymore, his sword, and his is back by popular demand from last subscribers, and will go on sale for the potential failure in the role of a lifetime. season. The show combines ballet, live general public on Wednesday, August strings and electronic music, a 16-person If you go 1. For the first time, patrons will be choir, and state of the art multimedia able to purchase tickets online at www. If you go projections that the dancers interact with August 1, 2007 at 7:30, Lower Lobby, ashevilletheatre.org. onstage. Shows are August 9-11 at Diana Diana Wortham Theatre, Pack Place Following Disney’s Beauty and the For more information about scheduling, Wortham Theatre. 2 South Pack Square, Asheville 28801 Beast is the World Premiere comedy ticket availability and pricing please Seven fabulous, infamous, talented, Tickets available at Malaprops and Southern Hospitality, by Jessie Jones, call Asheville Community Theatre at and highly sought after Asheville The Reader’s Corner. $20 in advance, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten. This 254-1320 or visit the Web site at www. personalities have agreed to participate $25 at the door. Call 828-252-6342 for Southern farce picks up with the Futrelle ashevilletheatre.org. in order to benefit Terpsicorps and the information

34 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE SSTAGETAGE PPREVIEWREVIEW Powerstories Theatre presents: North Carolina Stage “Bernadette’s Bravo!” Company showcases a

ernadette’s Bravo!” by Powerstories Theatre, P.O. Box 18021, Powerstories Theatre of Tampa, FL. 33679. Please include 10-hour “performathon” BY AMANDA LESLIE Tampa, Florida is a show your name, address, phone number about women seeking and and e-mail address. All entries must be finding their life messages… received by August 10, 2007. or Bravo’s. Seven girlfriends Powerstories Theatre of Tampa meet for their annual Dream Big Club Bay, Inc. is a non-profit theatre that “Band decide to enter a writing contest in stages true stories of women and girls hopes of getting their words displayed worldwide to open minds and hearts. in New York City. While seeking “Bernadette’s Bravo!” is the third show their bravos, they make enlightening by Fran Powers and the first one to tour discoveries about themselves and life. nationally. The first two, “Let the Stories This is reality theatre at its finest Move You” and “Clarity Cometh” in a wonderful full-length show performed for 5 years in the Tampa punctuated with a variety of original Bay area. Our theatre productions, songs. Thousands of audience members workshops and seminars demonstrate from Florida and Georgia wildly and teach the uniquely powerful role applauded at the show’s end and left that personal story telling can play. asking themselves…“What is MY The Powerstories philosophy is that ‘bravo’?!” every person, organization, corporation The show is written and directed and community has a powerstory to by Fran Powers with music by Janet discover and share with others. The Scaglione. Performers have written their discovery and the telling of the story own stories that are then intertwined creates new-found success, invests within the script and the songs. lives with more meaning, and connects Performers include Rose Bilal, Linda us more vitally with others. Each Blume, Karen Brown-Blonigen, Janice production and workshop is designed Creneti, to use true stories to increase courage Kathryn and confidence, deepen appreciation Clockwise from upper left: LYLAS, Moving Women, NCSC's production of MacWatters, for diversity, emphasize our common The Syringa Tree (2005), The Redundant Theatre Company Theatre. Janice journeys, and open minds and hearts. Nepon- Powerstories serves hundreds of Sixt, and young girls in the Tampa Bay area. orth Carolina Stage Company they’ve never seen before, and not just DanaWhiting. In April, 2007, they received national presents an all-day theatre stick to their favorites.” Come see recognition from the President’s marathon Saturday August NC Stage will also be serving hot these seven Committee of the Arts and Humanities 25th, at its theatre in downtown dogs and veggie dogs outside the theatre, women as one of the top arts and humanities Asheville. This homegrown for patrons who want to grab a quick bite dreaming passed programs in the country. mini-festival features all local between shows. In the 7:00pm slot, NC big on stage, Because of our commitment to performers, with theatre, dance, sketch Stage will take over the stage for the Best comedy,N and more. Beginning at 3:00pm, of NCSC “Alley” Awards. Named after further young women and girls, Powerstories empowered will be donating 10% of tickets back to patrons can see a show every hour, on the the alley in front of the theatre (now called by the the community of Asheville, N.C. hour, until 1:00 in the morning. Stage Lane), these awards will honor the messages of Featured companies and artists best artists and productions of the past five women from include Jynormous Theatre Company, years. all over the Janice Creneti If you go acclaimed storyteller David Novak, dance North Carolina Stage Company globe. troupe Moving Women, The Redundant performs in a 99-seat theatre in the Theatre Company Theatre, Mondy heart of downtown Asheville. Its At Date: Friday, August 17, 2007 the show’s end Powerstories Theatre and Karen Carter, Scapegoat Theatre programs include a year-round season of Time: 8:00 PM. Collective, Zeaot, enigmatic theatre professional theatre, with an emphasis displays Bravo’s from women and girls Location: Diana Wortham Theatre at around the world. So, we invite you company, all-female sketch comedy group on producing the classics, as well as Pack Place. Asheville, N.C. LYLAS, and Barbara Bates Smith adapting artist residency programs in the schools, to send in your Bravo. To have your Tickets: $23.00 for general admission. Bravo considered for the August 17, the work of southern writer Lee Smith. At master classes, and the Catalyst Series, $20.00 for students and seniors (60 +). 11:00pm, NC Stage presents “The Best which supports local, grassroots theatre 2007 show, please send your personal Tickets: (828) 257-4530 message in seven words or less along of No Shame Theatre,” a collection of companies. or visit www.dwtheatre.com. original five-minute plays culled from the with a photograph that best depicts your For more information: (813) 831-3118 message to [email protected] or past season. or visit www.powerstories.com. With the statewide Stoneleaf Theatre If you go Festival now on hiatus, NC Stage decided to mount its own mini-festival, presenting All-Access Passes are $20, available in Powerstories Theatre of Tampa Bay, Inc. is a twelve performances in one day, all in advance. Tickets for each one-hour block one venue. “We want to capture the are $10, available only at the door, 15 non-profi t theatre that stages true stories of women excitement of a festival atmosphere,” says Artistic Director Charlie Flynn-McIver, minutes before show times. All proceeds and girls worldwide to open minds and hearts. “That’s why we’re offering rush tickets at benefit the programs of North Carolina the door, and pairing two different theatre Stage Company. Visit www.ncstage.org companies in one-hour slots. We want for a full schedule of events, or call the people to take a chance on a company box office at (828) 350-9090. Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 35 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE AUGUST 2007 Events & Workshops August 4, 11, 18, 25 Earthaven EcoVillage Tour Black Mountain, NC Call first: (828) 669-3937 www.earthaven.org August 15, 1-5pm Intro to “HealthyBuilt Homes,” part of Green Building 101, statewidegreen Sustainable Living Resource for WNC • Vol. 2, No. 3 August 07 builder program; NC Arboretum; Contact Rachel Della Valle [email protected] 7th Annual Southern Energy and Environment Expo (828) 254-1995 www.wncgbc.org Expects Record Crowds August 18 BY BYRON BELZAK Canary Coalition 2007 Relay for Clean Air “100-mile civil rights march” hen Ned Doyle, founder of More People Get It Now Along Blue Ridge Parkway; the Southern Energy and Ned Doyle was ahead of his Walkers, runners, bike riders wanted. Environment Expo, speaks time when he first came up with this [email protected] about how to achieve a greener informational event that dealt with both (828) 631-3447 world and use alternative energy and the environment. Most people www.canarycoalition.org energy systems, people listen. didn’t understand the connection. W“The Southern Energy and “Back in 1999 when we first started August 24, 10am-5pm Environment Expo is a public event that is working on this project, when I proposed Autoclaved Aerated Concrete designed to bring together environmental that energy policy was directly related (AAC Block) One-Day Workshop issues and sustainable energy,” said Ned to environmental issues, I got a lot of at SafeCrete, Ringgold, GA; Doyle. sideways glances from people who didn’t (706) 965-4587 * www.safecrete.com And more people each year are believe me.” listening to Doyle and others who are Now, most people understand the August 24 - 26 part of this ever-growing energy and connection. 7th Annual SEE EXPO environment fair, nicknamed SEE EXPO. “The success of the Southern Energy Southern Energy & Environment It will be held August 24 through and Environment Expo over the last seven Expo * at WNC Ag Center August 27, 2007, at the WNC Ag Center, years has been in large part due to this 10 miles south of Asheville which is located near the Asheville growing awareness that all these different Near Asheville Regional Airport Regional Airport on Hwy. 280. The aspects are interrelated,” said Doyle. www.seeexpo.com Ag Center is located 10 miles south of “We have to look at all issues in a holistic Asheville at Exit 40 off I-26. August 29, 9am-5pm sense.” For three consecutive days this year, During the show, there are many Solar Workshop for Installers: August 24, 25 and 26, SEE EXPO, now workshops and presentations that cover a Ned Doyle PV & National Electrical Code in its seventh year, will likely experience wide range of topics. Each is approximately Instructor: John Wiles, Renewable record crowds. a 45-minute introduction. activism,” he said, such as getting involved Energy Initiative (WNCREI) “Each year is bigger than the last,” For example, there is a popular with environmental issues, getting Appalachian State Univ., Boone, NC Ned Doyle told The Greener Home in presentation about solar hot water heating. involved with the political process, getting [email protected] (828) 262-7333 an exclusive interview in late July. Last “It’s an extraordinary cost-effective your community or region organized to wind.appstate.edu/workshops year over 8,000 people attended this environmental friendly way to reduce work towards sustainability. “There are a whole range of programs September 8, 10am - 6pm annual event. The increased interest is electrical demand on the utility grid,” easy to understand, given rising costs of offered at SEE EXPO, such as green OrganicFest * Celebrating everything said Doyle. Also covered are independent energy and the negative consequences of power systems, such as photovoltaics and building techniques, energy efficiency organic. Next to Grove Arcade in pollution and climate change. for the home, natural building, and Downtown Asheville (828) 253-2267 small-scale wind power. www.organicfest.org “There are many programs on ‘Energy Expo’ continued on pg 37

The Greener Home “Greener is Better” Vol. 2, No. 3

PUBLISHER-EDITOR: Byron Belzak ART DIRECTOR: Simone Bouyer The Greener Home is a MediaBear publication, in print and online at www.TheGreenerHome.com Please write to: MediaBear, PO Box 1040, Skyland, NC 28776 SALES AND EDITORIAL: (828) 768-5600 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Copyright 2007 MediaBear All Rights Reserved www.ArtAsheville.com www.WNCTraveler.com 36 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME

‘Energy Expo’ continued from pg 36 of the country, we’re not unique - makes Moving In The Right Direction He understands sustainable energy sources other alternative building techniques. It’s it possible for a huge economic boom “The good news is that on a regional and technologies are huge economic all geared around providing the visitor occur,” said Doyle. level and on a community level, there is a booms, especially to the Western North and attendee with a real comprehensive The only downside in going with huge up-swell and grassroots movement Carolina region, which is in his district. introduction to each of these topics.” clean energy and distributed generation that is happening,” said Doyle. “People “Congressman Shuler has been is that the few corporations and their realize that corporations and the federal moving this nation in the correct The Time Is Now shareholders who are making a lot of government are going in the wrong direction.” Shuler has a booth at SEE “It’s time to go with sustainable energy money from coal, oil, gas won’t be making direction.” EXPO. and with energy efficiency,” said SEE as much if we switch. Doyle considers Western North EXPO founder Doyle. He pointed out that “With sustainable energy, everyone Carolina’s new U.S. Representative Heath North Carolina spends close to $10 billion wins,” said Doyle. “Society wins. The Shuler to be a friend of the environment. If you go every year - and most of that money goes environment wins. Our children win. The “Congressman Heath Shuler has out of state for coal, oil, gas and nuclear future wins.” turned into a very effective representative For more details about the Southern services. Unfortunately, pollution and global for environmental and energy issues. Energy and Environment Expo for August “So turning this into an economic warming remains a serious problem, one He has demonstrated an awareness, 24 - 26, 2007, visit www.seeexpo.com. flow that stays in North Carolina, that that is literally challenging our planet and understanding and support for clean stays in the region - and stays in any area human survival. energy systems and environmental impact. - Copyright 2007 MediaBear Canary Coalition Doubles Membership in One Year BY BYRON BELZAK

n June 28, 2007, Canary in matters of air quality and climate He went on to say, “Our reputation Progress Energy to build an oil-burning Coalition executive director change. as a strong, uncompromising advocate for power plant in Woodfin.” Also, he said that Avram Friedman reported that Reading from a prepared statement, meaningful and sweeping energy policy the Coalition had elevated wind energy as the membership of Western Friedman said to the small but enthusiastic changes has attracted considerable public an issue on the state level. North Carolina’s grassroots group who attended the annual meeting: attention and increased our influence Friedman concluded his State of the clean air organization had nearly “Our country and the world are under within the environmental community as Canary Address on a philosophical note, doubled in one year. attack as the energy and transportation we command respect in powerful political saying, “We’re bigger as an organization. OIn his annual “State of the Canary” industries sell the use of more and more circles and in the news media.” We’ve developed important alliances. address as part of the annual membership energy and are making plans to build and Friedman cited several of the We’ve gained further influence. Our issues meeting of the Canary Coalition, which operate hundreds of more polluting power group’s successes, such as working with have gained a new prominence in the was held at the Montford Community plants to accommodate their projected the Nuclear Information and Resource public mind and within the halls of state Center in Asheville, NC, Friedman said, growing demand. Service and Ned Doyle of the Southeast and federal legislative bodies. We should “This past year our membership has “There are also plans to build more Energy and Environment Expo to bring all be encouraged to carry on our work, virtually doubled to more than 1,450 highways to blindly encourage expanded the Energy at the Crossroads Tour to assured that we are making a difference.” members.” The previous year’s count of use of automobiles at a time when we are North Carolina, South Carolina and The full text of Avram Friedman’s 780 members represented a 15 percent approaching - or maybe even past - the Georgia. This was done, said Friedman, speech can be found on the group’s increase over the prior year. world’s period of peak oil production as to attempt “to codify the costs of health website at www.canarycoalition.org. He attributed part of the “dramatic many third world countries are beginning and environmental impact, full-fuel cycles “The Greener Home,” which is increase” to several key factors, including to emerge as newly industrialized nations and the decommissioning of power plants published monthly in print inside Rapid the “remarkable work” of the Coalition’s competing for the remaining global when evaluating the least-cost method of River Magazine as well as online at www. lone field staff employee, Mike Cherin, petroleum reserves. meeting future energy demand.” thegreenerhome.com, was apparently who “spent endless hours ... signing up “These misguided industrial agendas He also said that the Canary Coalition the only media outlet that attended the people and businesses,” along with the and the energy policies that are emerging “was instrumental” in coordinating an Coalition’s press conference and 2007 efforts of many volunteers. from our state and national governments ad-hoc, bi-weekly council of more than annual meeting. Another key reason, said Friedman, to appease the interests of large energy a dozen environmental organizations in was that the Coalition had “something to corporations are helping to motivate Western North Carolina that “worked – Copyright 2007 MediaBear sell,” which was increased public interest grassroots involvement.” closely together to defeat the effort by

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 37 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME Perfect World BY ANDREA HELM

n my perfect world, all of downtown Try Auto-Free Zones Asheville would be closed to traffic. Banning cars from downtown would Visitors - both local and tourist - serve many purposes and fix many would park in one of several parking problems at the same time: less noise facilities located on the outskirts of pollution, less air pollution, less traffic downtown and then ride a streetcar congestion, and more foot traffic and shuttle in. Parking would be free, so that if human interaction. Iyou wanted to walk into downtown from Cities in Europe have auto-free zones, the parking area, it would cost you nothing and they manage to carry on their business to be in the city all day. just as well. In some Latin American If you so desired, you could take the countries, the entire central city plaza is trolley that runs from the parking area to a pedestrian-only zone. This would also the many drop-off points in downtown. help us get more exercise. Trolleys would run all day from seven in Places like New York and Paris, where the morning until 11 in the evening, seven people walk much more than they drive, days a week, from the Grove Park Inn, the have lower rates of obesity than do other Biltmore Estate, and from the hotels and cities. Besides, downtown Asheville is lovely bed-and-breakfast establishments relatively small; maybe all of 12 square across the city. blocks. Sorry darlings, if this sounds harsh A one-day trolley pass would cost five - but if you can’t or don’t want to walk 12 just so we can be three blocks closer to our than it already is. I could die of mild bucks and give the rider unlimited access blocks, you should probably just stay home to transportation in the downtown core. destination. All the while, the heated-butt- discomfort if my rear-end isn’t maintained anyway. That’s why America is the fattest cheek feature in the car seat is running at at a perfect constant temperate balance.” The city might generate more revenue nation in the world. from this system than from parking meters full capacity. I’m not picking on the heavy people; We drive around in our lounge chairs I’ve never been aware of any time I weigh way too much myself. But when and parking garages, which are visually on wheels burning precious fossil fuels unappealing anyway. in my life when I thought to myself, “Ya I’m at Target, I try to park in the back lot polluting the air for generations to come, know, my butt could be just a little warmer instead of trying to get a parking space as

LOCAL ARTIST SERIES Stephen Savage

New Perspectives on Familiar Places THROUGH OCTOBER

Artist Reception Saturday morning, August 18th, 10-12 Coffee & pastries (42x42, oil on canvas, 2007) “Behind the Mountaineer”

30 Bryson Street, Asheville (across from Kinko’s) 225-3117 • blackbirdframe.com

38 August 2007 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — Vol. 10, No. 12 R A PID RIVER A RTS & C ULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME close to the front door as possible. This and other home needs, a cistern system Say what you will about former I’m thinking more along the lines way, I have further to walk, which helps can help minimize water runoff and President Jimmy Carter, but when there of: “When you ain’t got nothin’, you got me get more exercise. flooding. The city’s rapidly disintegrating was an oil shortage, he put on a sweater nothin’ to lose.” Besides, I can park my car in the water system would not be as stressed as it and turned the heat down, and told I believe we ain’t got nothin’ to lose. shade of the trees, which keeps the car is now, which could help keep the cost of the rest of America to do the same. He cooler. And that lowers the need for repairs and service down. encouraged Americans to conserve energy You Tell Me running the air conditioning, which and resources, for the greater good. He So readers, how would you like your lowers the amount of gas I burn - which Change Our Attitudes didn’t go out and buy a land yacht that city to be? In your perfect world, what in turn lowers the amount of carbon I can hear some people howling as gets 12 miles to the gallon. would you change? What would you monoxide I’m contributing. Imagine the they’re reading this now: that’s commie keep? Who would you ban and why? positive changes we could make if most talk; it’s fascism; it’s un-American; Protect Our Future Anyway, it’s something to think about people lived like this, and not just a few? you can’t tell us we can’t drive our cars Here’s how I see it: if we don’t do ‘til The Rapture comes. and you can’t tell us how to live, and something to protect our city and our Change Our Buildings blahblibbityblah. mountains now, there won’t be anything – Copyright 2007 MediaBear, If I could twinkle my nose and have But gated communities already have left to protect. all rights reserved to the author. it my way, in addition to opening up all kinds of covenants and restrictions Our lifestyle must downtown to foot traffic, I’d make some regarding construction and remodeling, become more sustainable, or serious changes to the way buildings are right down to what color you can paint “Soylent Green” won’t be just being built in this town. the dang thing, and the city code is full a bad movie. This is not sci- In my perfect world, every new home of what thou can and canst do with thine fi pie in the sky, folks; this is built in the three-county area of Asheville own property. totally workable. We have the would be required to install passive heat You sure can’t grow a yard full of technology. We have the power. and solar panel systems, and square- opium poppies on your own property, We have the desire. We know in footage restrictions based on the number now can you? (Just ask Afghanistan.) our collective gut that something of occupants would apply. In other words, In the 1940s, during wartime, our radical is going to have to no more 20,000 square feet houses built leaders encouraged us to buy war bonds happen, and soon, or it’s all for two people. and grow our own food and ration what going to go to you know where. A 250-gallon cistern water collection resources we did have for the greater Who was it that said, “We’re system would be required to help capture good. Where is that ideology now? There going to try it, and if that doesn’t and reuse rainwater. As well as providing seems to be no concept of a greater good work, then we’re going to try valuable water for gardening, car washing, these days. something else”? “SEE the Future” 7th Annual Southern Energy & Environment Expo Aug 24–26, 2007 WNC Ag Center, (Exit 40 off I-26) 10 Miles South of Asheville www.seeexpo.com Featuring: %#/#LEAN!IR#AR&AIRs3OLAR%NERGY 7IND0OWERs(YDROPOWER &ORESTRYs#LEAN!IRs#LEAN7ATER Sustainable Agriculture 'REEN(OME3HOW 'REEN%CONOMIC$EVELOPMENT

For More Information Visit www.seeexpo.com

Vol. 10, No. 12 — RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — August 2007 39 Enjoy Good Food • Live Entertainment Lunch • Dinner *Live Entertainment* Sat. and Sun. Southern Style Brunch www.JerusalemGardenCafe.com

78 Patton Ave. • Downtown Asheville (828) 254-0295 • (828) 254-0255

" " Four Times!