HOLIDAY THEATRE AT ACT, FLAT ROCK & NC STAGE • GIFT GUIDE December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 Rapid River® ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE Volume Ten, Number Four Established in 1997 Distributed at 300 plus locations throughout eight counties in WNC and South Carolina December Publisher/Editor: Dennis Ray www.rapidrivermagazine.com Associate Publisher: Byron Belzak Managing Editor: Beth Gossett Inside Art Director: Dennis Ray 5 Cover Marketing: Dennis Ray, Byron Belzak Asheville Area Arts Center ...... 5 Staff Photographer: Dennis Ray Accounting: Sharon Cole 6 Performing Arts Blue Ridge Orchestra ...... 6 Book Editor: Beth Gossett Asheville Choral Society ...... 13 Distribution: Dennis Ray Asheville Lyric Opera ...... 19 Poetry Editor: Jeff Davis 6 Theatre The Santaland Diaries . . . . . 6 Contributing Writers It’s a Wonderful Life . . . . 13 Dr. DeWayne Butcher, Best Christmas Pageant Ever . . . . 17 Byron Belzak, James Cassara, Michael Clark, Jeff Davis, Amy Downs, 7 Columns Beth Gossett, Mountians of Art . . . . 7 Dr. Max Hammonds, MD., Bill Quam . . . . 8 Phil Hawkins, Marcianne Miller, Bill Walz . . . . 38 Michael F. Parker, Dennis Ray, Mike Stewart, Patrice Tappeé, 10 Music Bill Walz Steep Canyon Rangers . . . . 10 Dave Rawlings . . . . 11 INFO Shawn Mullins ...... 12 CD Reviews ...... 14 Rapid River Art Magazine is a Aaron Price ...... 34 free monthly publication. Address correspondence to: 16 Books [email protected] or write 18 Poetry to" Rapid River Arts & Culture Magazine, 20 Feature Story 85 N. Main St.., Canton, NC 28716. Dine Phone: (828) 646-0071. 22 Wine Guide ...... 22 www.rapidrivermagazine.com Honest Food Reviews. . . . 23
All materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted by Rapid River Art Magazine 24 Holiday Gift Guide and the individual contributors unless oth- erwise stated. Opinions expressed in this 27 Health magazine do not necessarily correspond with the opinions of Rapid River Art Magazine or the advertisers found herein. 28 What to Do Guide © Rapid River Magazine, December 2006. Corgi Tales . . . . 31 Mediabear, a local Asheville firm, Movie Reviews provides original and local writing 32 services to Rapid River Magazine. 35 Gallery Updates Cover design by Dennis Ray 36 The Greener Home
December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS Silver Fox Gallery COVER
Standing: Councilman Brownie Newman, Councilman Bryan Freeborn, Councilwoman Robin Cape, Councilman Carl Mumpower. Seated: Vice-Mayor Holly Jones, Mayor Terry Bellamy, Councilman Jan Davis 2006 Holiday Gift Collection City plans new Area Center American Craft … from $10 for the Performing Arts by llen ucker Silver Fox Gallery A T 508 North Main Street, Hendersonville 828-698-0601 silverfoxonline.com
players, and variables involved. But, it OPEN 7 DAYS/WEEK . FRIDAY TO 8 PM s there ever going to be an may be possible to sort through much Asheville Area Center for the of this information and come up with a Performing Arts?" few critical questions, maybe even sug- Though this has been a gestions. topic of discussion off and on First, let’s not assume everyone for about 30 years, the current knows all about PACs. round"I of efforts goes back to late 2002. What is a PAC? Most of us are Now, four years later, there are those familiar with Lincoln Center for the who are optimistic that significant prog- Performing Arts in New York and the ress has been made and that we’re at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts threshold of a significant breakthrough in Washington, D.C. If so, forget about in making this a reality. There are oth- them. In two significant ways, it’s not ers who insist that, though we know a really what we’re talking about. Lincoln lot more about performing arts centers and Kennedy centers are huge com- (PACs) that we did four years ago, we’re plexes with multiple, specialized venues not one step closer to having one. within them: a large concert hall, an Where, exactly, are we now? How opera house, a recital hall, two or three did we get here? Do we move forward? theaters of varying size, etc. When a city If so, how? To date, hundreds if not the size of Asheville builds a PAC it is thousands of pages have been generated primarily one, multi-purpose venue that on this topic. One fairly brief article can’t is designed to accommodate symphonic begin to thoroughly review the history, ‘Center’ continued on pg. 26
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE HOLIDAY A free down home Christmas concert at the Folk Art Center by Neil Harris artist, and arts and crafts from local and regional conductor. artisans. The Folk Art Center is located on he Blue Ridge Orchestra will The orchestra the Blue Ridge Parkway, easily accessible offer its annual holiday concert is composed from I-40 or Tunnel Rd. For directions, on Sunday, Dec. 17, at 3pm at of western visit www.southernhighlandguild.org. the Folk Art Center. North Carolina For more information on the Blue Ridge The concert is being musicians ranging Orchestra and Voices in the Laurel, visit T presented as a musical gift to from talented www.blueridgeorchestra.org and the community; it is free and open to the high school www.voicesinthelaurel.org. public. players to veteran The program will include medleys professional of familiar holiday classics, including The Blue Ridge Orchestra musicians. The excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker group presents Suite and Handel’s Messiah. The orchestra and are trained in singing techniques and five concerts each If you go: will be joined by Voices in the Laurel, a reading music. They perform challenging year in Asheville, including masterworks choral group featuring talented children repertoire in different languages, dialects, programs, a holiday concert, a family WHAT: Blue Ridge Orchestra's and teenagers from the western North and styles, including music from a variety concert, and presentations of Peter and Annual Holiday Concert Carolina area. of musical eras. The Blue Ridge Orchestra the Wolf in conjunction with the Asheville WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 17 Voices in the Laurel, now in its 11th is delighted to be partnering with this Ballet. WHERE: Folk Art Center season, is comprised of three performing talented group of young people. This holiday concert is free and 382 Blue Ridge Parkway groups for children ranging from the third The Blue Ridge Orchestra is under open to the public. Come early to do through the 12 grades. Members hail from the direction of Ronald Clearfield, an some Christmas shopping at the Folk Art Asheville all over the western North Carolina region Asheville area cellist, composer, recording Center, home to a diverse array of unique
'Santaland Diaries' returns again to ACT by Neil Harris Groundlings, Second atre underneath Asheville “This American Life” and has published City, and comedy Community Theatre. With several volumes of hilarious essays, nota- icon Del Close. Josh the move to the larger bly “Naked,” “Me Talk Pretty One Day,” sheville Community Theatre Batenhorst makes his venue of the Mainstage last and his most recent “Dress Your Family in announces the fifth remount of ACT directorial debut, year, ticket sales were just as Corduroy and Denim.” their smash hit The Santaland though he recently staggering. When Sedaris read the essay version of Diaries by David Sedaris, adapt- directed Birth as a “Last year, we weren’t “The Santaland Diaries” during an install- ed for the stage by Joe Mantello. part of the NC Stage sure how the show would ment of “This American Life,” it gener- A Tom Chalmers will once Company’s Catalyst translate to a much, much ated one of the largest and most enthusi- again don the pointed shoes of Crumpet Series. Chalmers and larger space, but it was a astic responses from the listening audience the Elf for Asheville’s newest holiday Batenhorst first col- huge success. We went that NPR had ever experienced. A dark tradition. The Santaland Diaries will be laborated in Hometown from 700 to 1200 audi- comedy, The Santaland Diaries follows a directed by Josh Batenhorst, who joins the Security, a short film ence members,” explains Macy’s department store elf throughout Santaland team for his ACT directorial which was awarded Program Director Jenny the duration of the Christmas season. Full debut. Best Film in the 2005 Bunn. “Tom Chalmers of dry insights, Sedaris comments on the Described as “one terrific talent” by Asheville 48 Hour Film Tom Chalmers brings a fresh energy and best and the worst of people and culture Jim Cavener of the Asheville Citizen- Project. sense of fun to this piece. He during the holiday season. Times, Chalmers is the former Artistic The Santaland Diaries sold out has taken the show in a different direction Reservations are strongly recom- Director of NYC’s Gotham City Improv/ nearly every seat when it was performed and made this piece his own.” mended for this production. Groundlings East and has studied with the in 35below, the intimate black box the- David Sedaris rose to fame on NPR’s This show contains graphic language and is not recommended for children. The Santaland Diaries is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc.
If you go: WHAT: 'The Santaland Diaries' WHEN: Dec. 14-16, Thursday- Saturday, 8pm; additional late-night performance Saturday night at 10pm WHERE: Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E. Walnut St., Asheville TICKETS: $10 all performances. INFO: (828) 254-1320
December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS MOUNTAINS OF ART Is there a national hunger to create? by Byron Belzak
There may be answers. A local artist here’s something going on across who always has something interesting to America. paint – and say – thinks she has drawn a It’s only a subjective percep- bead on this subject. tion, but it seems as real as rain, “It started with Ben Franklin turn- and maybe as right, but I certainly ing from a regular dime store into a crafts don’t claim to understand it. center,” said Asheville artist and former T What is it? It has to do with art teacher Lisa Ringelspaugh-Irvine, the arts and crafts – and who knows what. a.k.a., Lisa Ring, well-known painter of Just consider the millions of folks who cityscapes across the eastern seaboard. have made Michael’s a fortune by buying “I think there is a national hunger craft supplies. Or take all those small inde- within people. They want to create some- pendent businesses that have also cashed in thing, anything. They want to do it with big with those who appear nearly addicted their hands. They want to hold it in their to making scrapbooks. While their habit is hands. It’s a need that they have, and they not as dangerous as taking crack, it’s prob- don’t even realize that it’s just the artist in ably equally them that expensive. wants to From get out.” coast to “I think there is a national hunger within But coast, great people. They want to create something, why do numbers of anything. They want to do it with their such great artists and hands. They want to hold it in their hands. numbers of artisans of It’s a need that they have, and they don’t Americans every genre even realize that it’s just the artist in them have such a and skill that wants to get out.” strong urge level are — Lisa Ringelspaugh-Irvine to create? selling their work in countless arts and craft festivals. Increasing “Because everything is so bland now,” numbers of artists seem to be offering said Lisa Ring. “When they work, people creative workshops, and people seem to go to a job where everything is pretty be signing up in greater numbers (not that much by rote. Companies don’t really there is anything wrong with that). want them to think or want to know how Karaoke was big years ago and, most to improve. They don’t want to hear their incredibly, it remains big. Who knows opinions. They just want them to come why? And don’t you know that ballroom in and put in their time and go home like dancing has become nothing short of pow- little drones.” ER-ful in every metropolis or one traffic I can tell Lisa Ring is on a roll. She light hamlet across this great nation. gets that way sometimes, and it’s fun to Personal expression is everywhere in listen. the good ol’ US of A these days. Just check “So here you have this whole cadre of out your neighbors’ huge Christmas light people who have no creative outlet. Well, displays that would make any airline pilot yeah, they’ve bought everything under the proud, albeit confused, on where to land. sun, and that didn’t satisfy them. They Yes, across America you can’t avoid made the babies, and did that whole rou- this cacophony of creative outbursts. tine, and that didn’t satisfy them. So they Even the most bored of drivers wait- are looking for something that’s out there, ing for a freight train to pass can’t help and it’s a creative side that they haven’t but notice that the boxcars are a veritable explored. And they don’t even realize how parade of graffiti and pop art. What I want following their creative side satisfies.” to know is who has the paint, much less Lisa Ringelspaugh-Irvine just might the time and inclination to risk going to become one of the guests, if not host, of jail, just because you want to tell the great- “The Arts Hour,” a proposed new local er world out there what’s on your (gang’s) show that might air on public access mind? URTV-20 sometime in 2007. We’ll see. And does it seem to you that teenagers She’s good enough to make people laugh are picking up guitars and drum sticks and and think at the same time, as is Asheville forming garage bands like it was the 60s all artist and sculptor Vadim Bora, who has over again? Recently I found myself show- more than once threatened to put on a ing my 16-year-old some old Bob Dylan local art exhibit, entitled “The Starving chord progressions – not because I wanted Audience Show.” At least us art addicts to impress him, but because he actually would come. asked me how to do something that I actu- ally know how to do. Now what’s that all Copyright 2006 Mediabear about? Vol.Vol. 10,10, No.No. 14 —— RapidRapid RiveRiverr ArArtStS && CULCULTTURUREE MagazineMagazine— — SEPTEMBER December 2006 2006 RAPID RIVER ARTS HUMOUR The Newberry incident by Bill Quam by Melissa Smith ’m a creature of habit. The reason and enjoy the meal. that I like to stick to a routine is that I must admit, Newberry WAS a cute I know what to expect. little town. We drove through the historic Every time my wife Cheryl and area and into the downtown. We found I take a long trip in the car, we’ve an old bookstore or library that had been always stopped to eat at Subway. It’s converted into a restaurant. This looked fast. It’s easy. I know what sandwich like the perfect place to eat. When we I to order. When Cheryl demanded stepped inside, the place had charm, ambi- we stop and eat a sit down meal on our ence and a tasty menu. “I am the first to last trip from Charleston, SC to Atlanta, I admit when I’m wrong,” I whispered after knew no good could come of it. we were seated. “This was a great idea!” There it went. We just passed the exit Cheryl gave me one of those “of course it to Prosperity, SC. More importantly, that was” smiles. was the exit with a Subway restaurant just After we finished a delicious meal, I a quarter mile down the road. told Cheryl to pay the check while I used “Oh quit complaining,” Cheryl the men’s room. As I walked to the end snapped. “You are going to love the cute of a long hallway, I noticed there was one little downtown area and restaurants in unisex bathroom. I also realized that my Newberry.” stomach was rumbling and I might be My wife decided our sit-down dinner busy for a little while. After I finished my would be in Newberry, SC. Personally, business, I flushed the toilet and headed to I didn’t care if the town of Newberry the sink to wash my hands. While washing was pictured next to the word “cute” in my hands, I glanced at the toilet bowl. My Webster’s. By my calculations, this side heart almost stopped cold. trip was going to add possibly one hour to The water was quickly rising to the a six-hour car ride. As I turned off on the top of the bowl. They’re few instances in Newberry exit, there was nothing more I life when fear and suspense slowly build could do. I decided to go with the flow to a crescendo. Getting married and over-
December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS HUMOUR flowing a public toilet are two that come mumbled as I walked quickly down the to mind. I frantically searched the bath- hallway. Cheryl ignored my warning and room for a plunger. The water rose peril- stepped into the bathroom anyway. Just ously close to the top. I found a plunger then, another patron turned the corner under the sink and just as I went for the and headed past me to use the bathroom. plunge … the water stopped, with just Like any sane husband, I decided to get a few trickles dripping over the edge. I the heck outta Dodge. didn’t even have time to catch my breath Knowing that the check had been when somebody knocked on the door paid, I decided to wait for my wife on and asked in a muffled voice, “Hey, are the sidewalk in front of the restaurant. you almost finished in there?” About two minutes later, Cheryl burst Before answering, I eased the out of the door. “I’m gonna kill you!” plunger slowly and began to pump. she huffed. Thankfully, the water was beginning to “You can kill me in the car,” I recede. “Gimme a minute,” I yelled. I answered as we ran to our car parked had already made up my mind to race across the street. I happened to look in past whoever was at the door. When the my rearview just after screeching my water was half way down in the bowl, tires and peeling out of town down Main there was another knock. “C’mon, hurry Street. I saw our waitress, the restaurant up!” the woman cried. In a moment of manager and the woman who followed panic, I went for the flush. What a big Cheryl into the bathroom looking up Get The Word Out mistake! and down the sidewalk for the gruesome Everything in the bowl came up and perpetrators of this vile bathroom crime. over the top with a vengeance. Whoa, We have resumed eating at Subway Advertise with the Rapid River Magazine my new Nikes were almost toast. Like on every road trip since that fateful day. the kid with his finger in the dike, I And to this day, I’m told a “Wanted” couldn’t stop the ensuing flood. I raced poster hangs above a single, white toilet to the door and opened it. I lowered my in a restaurant in downtown Newberry. head and bumped into the woman at (828) 646-0071 the door. “What is your problem!” she quipped. I looked up and to my shock Copyright 2006 by Mediabear, all www.rapidrivermagazine.com it was Cheryl. “Don’t go in there,” I rights reserved to the author.
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE MUSIC Contemporary NC Bluegrass delivers the goods this holiday season by James Cassara combines early bluegrass sounds with original material. he NC based Steep Canyon The band, while becoming favor- Rangers have carved out a ites on the bluegrass circuit, have also unique niche in the world of gained a sizeable fan base among devotees bluegrass music, creating a of Americana and rock-n-roll. Such an sound that portends the future eclectic audience has enabled them to T will honoring the past. play a variety of venues while introducing On the strength of that commit- their distinctive bluegrass style to music ment the band has enjoyed a remarkable lovers of all stripes. level of success during 2006, capturing The Steep Canyon Rangers The quintet formed during the late the coveted Best Emerging Artist by the ‘90s, when all of the members were still International Bluegrass Music Association bestowed upon a band formed in the enrolled at UNC. The impetus for form- on the strength of their One Dime at a stairwells and kitchens of Chapel Hill. ing the band evolved out of a weekly Time release, spawning a number one From diverse musical back- shindig hosted by the local Mellow single on Bluegrass Unlimited’s National grounds friends Mike Guggino, Charles Mushroom Restaurant. Capturing the ear Survey. Most recently was a guest spot Humphrey, Woody Platt, Nicky Sanders of noted producer Curtis Burch the band on the Grand Ole Opry; quite an honor and Graham Sharp established a style that recorded their debut, Old Dreams and New Dreams in 2001. It’s a timely col- lection of largely traditional tunes playing homage to the band’s influences. Their next release, Mr. Taylor’s New Home, went the opposite route: Recorded in a Chapel Hill studio oper- ated by Jerry Brown the 2002 release features predominantly original material along with a couple of bluegrass stan- dards. Following that release the band entered into an extensive period of tour- ing, zigzagging throughout the Southeast while sharing stages with such artists as Doc Watson, Jimmy Martin, Peter Rowan, Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, Donna the Buffalo and Norman Blake. Festival appearances included the Doc Watson Festival, Bluegrass Under the Elm, and the Brushy Mountain Jamboree. While concentrating largely on this region the group has also ventured out to the Rocky Mountain Bluegrass Festival in Colorado. While the individual players are all fine musicians the band takes great pride in their performing as a unit. The focus is on the song, delivering riotous numbers such as the secretive “Green- Eyed Lady” in a brief three minutes. It’s an approach that has so far been wildly successful, beyond even the aspirations that emerged on a lovely fall day under a Carolina blue sky in Chapel Hill.
If you go: WHAT: Steep Canyon Rangers WHERE: The Orange Peel WHEN: Friday, Dec. 8, 9pm (8pm doors) INFO: $10/advance $12/doors. Ages 16+ (828) 225-5851
10 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE LIVEMUSIC Dave Rawlings steps into the spotlight Dec. 5 by James Cassara
second release on their own Acony hile best Records label. known as Since then the pair If you go: the long- have laid low. WHAT: The Dave Rawlings time musical Rawlings has partner to concentrated on a Machine (with special guest W Appalachian variety of projects, NOT to be announced!) tinged songstress Gillian but none seem as WHERE: The Grey Eagle Welch, Dave Rawlings is a dear to his heart as WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 5 formidable musician in his The Dave Rawlings INFO: Tickets are $10. Doors own right. Machine. From the start, his Dave Rawlings Rawlings is open at 7:30, show starts at multi-instrumental approach being typically coy 8:30pm. Call (828) 232-5800 has been the anchor of the about the band and duo’s performances, the perfect counter- its direction but given his resumé this is weight to Welch’s laconic drawl. certainly one show not to be missed. The two first met some 15 years ago while they were both attending the Berklee School of Music in Boston. The pair shared a love of traditional country and bluegrass songs and, after honing their skills in local open mic showcases, they began performing regularly through- out the country. Landing a prestigious gig open- ing for Peter Rowan in Nashville, they were spotted by musician and producer T-Bone Burnett. Burnett, whose love of traditional sounds has earned him numer- ous Grammy Awards, assisted Welch and Rawlings in landing a record deal. With Burnett producing, they cut 1996’s starkly beautiful Revival, an album split between bare-bones duo perfor- mances (some even recorded in mono to capture a bygone sound) and more full- bodied cuts featuring legendary session men like guitarist James Burton, upright bassist Roy Huskey, Jr., and drummers Buddy Harmon and Jim Keltner. Suddenly Rawlings and Welch found themselves amongst the elite of the then burgeoning Americana music scene. Her sophomore album, Hell Among the Yearlings, might have been billed a Gillian Welch album but Rawlings’ mark became even more pronounced. His trademark slide work, harmonies, and inventive tunings elevated the songs in remarkable fashion. The two began concentrating on side projects, including the fabled O Brother Where Art Thou and Songcatcher as well tribute albums given over to Dwight Yoakim and Gram Parsons. Rawlings began stretching out a bit, offering super- lative support to albums by Ryan Adams and Mark Knopfler while making plans for the pair’s third effort. Time (The Revelator) was yet another step forward, indicating a maturation of song craft not yet heard. Steady touring, guest appear- ances keep the two busy but in 2003 they found time to record Soul Journey, their
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 11 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE LIVEMUSIC Shawn Mullins' 'Better Days' are here by James Cassara Letterman. Mullins expands his instrumental The album even- repertoire throughout: Mandolin plays a tually went platinum, prominent role in “Homemade Wine,” t simply wouldn’t be fall paving the way for a moody story-song ballad about leav- with the redoubtable The First Ten Years, ing a town and a life behind that takes Shawn Mullins making a an anthology of his advantage of the singers’’ deeply expres- stop at one of his favor- early work, along with sive voice, while “All Fall Down” finds its www.WNCTraveler.com ite venues. national and European rocking heart in late era Beatles. I The Atlanta-based folk- tours. In fall 2000, The disc’s first single, the harder- singer and songwriter has Mullins released the edged “Beautiful Wreck” is co-written by long considered this area a official follow-up to his Thorns’ mate Pete Droge and is supe- second home. The old Grey Soul’s Core, Beneath rior to anything on that short-lived side Eagle location (in Black the Velvet Sun. The project. Mullins goes traditional religious Mountain) was one of the album gained strong on the waltz-timed “Lay Down Your first established music halls Shawn Mullins reviews but failed to Swords, Boys” while returning to his laid he performed in and, as match the commercial back roots on the bluesy “Solitaire.” the artist is fond of saying, success of its predeces- He closes out the album with a mov- “Some of my best memories sor. ing version of “House of the Rising Sun”, come from those early shows.” As his contract with Columbia a song clearly intended to be his tribute to For those who might be arriving expired the label released the misnamed New Orleans, the city whose dusky atmo- late, a bit of history: Shawn Mullins was Essential Shawn Mullins (a hasty gather- sphere has subtly contributed to Shawn serving as a member of the US Army ing of easily available songs) before releas- Mullins’ most poignant, cohesive and Airborne Infantry Division when he ing his contract. Not surprisingly Mullins’ diverse album. released his first self-titled cassette on association with Sony (the parent label for Mullins has been eagerly presenting his own SM label in 1989; following the Columbia) didn’t last long. the new material on stage. His last appear- release of 1991’s Ever Changing World, His sophomore release for the label ance at the Eagle, some six months back, he left the military to pursue music on never found its audience, and with 2005 premiered a few songs but relied heavily a full-time basis. After three years spent not quite finding eclectic singer/songwrit- on old favorites. fruitlessly searching for a record deal, ers in vogue he found a more comfortable There’s no telling what this show playing local clubs while holding down and logical home at Vanguard. Home to might entail but there is one certainly; a variety of day jobs, he established the many of the artists Mullins worshiped, Mullins will give the fans an evening of SMG label in an effort “To do things my the company thrived on, and had a suc- extraordinary music that connects deeply own way on my own terms.” cessful history, promoting other artists with the Soul’s Core of his many local In the interim Mullins released a pair with idiosyncratic folk and folk-rock followers. of albums (1992’s Better Days and 1994’s styles. The feeling was obviously mutual: Big Blue Sky) before cutting a pair of his newest effort, 9th Ward Pickin’ Parlor, homegrown live companion discs record- is the most decisive and fully realized ed jointly with his old friend Matthew effort of his career. If you go: Kahler. Mullins returned a year later with With basic tracks recorded in a Who: Shawn Mullins (with the solo Eggshells, the first of his albums pre-Katrina New Orleans studio (hast- supporting act Clay Cook) to garner true national attention. ily abandoned as the storm approached) When: Saturday, Dec. 2. 1998’s Soul’s Core, his debut album Mullins crafted a diverse offering that Where: The Grey Eagle for major label Columbia, “broke open encompasses folk, rock, Celtic and coun- the doors and changed my life.” The try, often interlocking in the same tune. Info/Tickets: $12 in singer scored a Top Ten hit with the sin- He channels early Black Crowes ter- advance $15 day of show. gle “Lullaby” and soon found himself per- ritory on the gospel-laced “Faith,” while (828) 232-5800 forming on The Tonight Show with Jay giving a personal spin to the self-penned Leno as well as Late Night With David murder ballad “Cold Black Heart.”
10-5:30 Mon-Sat In Woodfin
12 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE PERFORMANCE Christmas with the Asheville Choral Society by Allen Tucker Runnicles.” order tickets by phone. The Christmas program includes The Traditional European Christmas he Asheville Choral Puccini’s Gloria, Jonathan Willcocks’ Feast is Sunday evening, December 17, at Society is kicking off its Magnificat, and Z. Randall Stroope’s The Flying Frog Restaurant. Dinner is 30th season with a gala Hodie, all stirring, celebratory expres- $75 plus beverage, tax and gratuity. Call Christmas celebration sions of the season. In addition, there (828) 254-9411 for reservations. — a feast of both music will be a number of Christmas clas- T and food. sics such as Masters in This Hall, Past “I’m very excited about this Three A Clock, and For Unto Us a concert for a number of rea- Child is Born. sons,” explains Music Director The ACS gala weekend con- If you go: Lenora Thom. “First, the chorus cludes Sunday after the concert with Who: Asheville Choral Society continues to grow in both size a Traditional European Christmas and quality. As a result of hav- Feast at The Flying Frog Restaurant. When: Saturday, Dec. 16, ing more than triple our average Chef Vijay Shastri promises that this 8pm and Sunday, Dec. 17, 4pm number of auditions this fall, our six-course extravaganza, a benefit for Where: Central United roster has grown from 105 to 150. the Asheville Choral Society, will be a Methodist Church, 27 Church More important than quantity, of Music Director Lenora Thom Christmas dinner to remember. St., Asheville. course, is the fact that the quality Christmas with the Asheville of the sound has taken a major Choral Society will be performed Info/Tickets: $20 for step forward.” Saturday, Dec. 16 at 8pm and Sunday, adults and $15 for students. “We also have a wonderful soprano appeared throughout Europe and America, Dec. 17 at 4pm at the Central United Call (828) 299-9063 to order soloist, Anne O’Byrne, performing with in numerous operatic roles and in con- Methodist Church, 27 Church St., tickets by phone. us,” continues Ms. Thom. “Anne is cert, with conductors such as Simon Asheville. Tickets are $20 for adults and an extraordinarily gifted singer. She’s Rattle, Franz Welser-Möst, and Donald $15 for students. Call (828) 299-9063 to HOLIDAYTHEATRE 'A Wonderful Life' plays at NC Stage by Beth Gossett Willie Repoley, who know the Capra as well as new- movie well.” his holiday comer Kathryn Special enhanced If you go: season experi- Temple, mak- performances: Friday, WhAT: 'It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio ence a beloved ing her NC Dec. 8 is Friday Night Play' holiday story Stage debut. Insight, featuring a talk- When: Dec. 6 - 17. Wed. – Sat. 7:30pm, – with a twist. Sound effects back immediately after Sun. 2pm. Wed. Dec. 6 is Pay-What-You-Can It’s a are provided the show. Night ($5 min.) T Wonderful by Chris Saturday, Dec. 9 is Life: A Live Radio Play, Holleman, a the Saturday Night Gala, Where: Walnut St. one block off Haywood by Joe Landry, is a new local electrical with a champagne recep- St., next to the Rankin Ave. parking garage. stage adaptation of the engineer and tion following the show. Tickets: (828)350-9090; $15-$23; classic movie. musician who Directed by plays banjo, Frank Capra and star- The cast of It's a Wonderful Life guitar, accor- ring Jimmy Stewart dion and fiddle and Donna Reed, It’s with the inter- a Wonderful Life was a flop in 1946. nationally-touring Asheville-based band Decades later it has become a holiday Mock Turtle Soup. tradition, airing on television every Directed by Hans Meyer who has December. directed The Glass Menagerie (2004) and In this clever adaptation, playwright All My Sons (2006). Joe Landry gives new life to the familiar All the trappings of a 1946 radio sta- story by setting it in the studios of the tion add to the feel of the show, including fictional WBFR Radio on Christmas Eve, full period costumes, “Applause” and “On 1946. The five hard-working radio actors The Air” signs, vintage microphones, and of WBFR portray dozens of characters a table filled with a huge variety of props from the movie, switching effortlessly used for making live sound effects. between voices. “There is something about getting to Underscoring the radio drama is a see the sound effects happen in front of live sound effects artist, who uses the old- your eyes,” says Meyer. “I’m amazed at fashioned techniques of radio shows like the variety of sounds that the right people The Lone Ranger or The Shadow. can get out of everyday objects. It is its The play stars Lauren Fortuna, own kind of theatrical magic. I think this Jonathan Frappier, David Novak and show will have some surprises for people
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 13 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE CD REVIEWS Year-end wrap-up of great CDs
by James Cassara Be it given one star or five if it gets mentioned gone-crazy ride) these guys never fail to modest but beautiful live disc is no excep- here you can bet it’s worth at least a listen. keep things lively. Staley's drumming is tion. Recorded during a stop on a short Let me know you’re out there: email me at muscular yet a bit loopy (in a good way) American road trip McKee undertook [email protected] with your comments and and Spampinato's bass provides a solid in 2006-no date, city, or venue listed -it receive a disc or two absolutely free. I even pay but melodic anchor. Gadler, meanwhile, features McKee accompanied only by her the postage! This time around it’s an end-of-the- proves a commanding singer who avoids own guitar and piano (friend Susan Otten year wrap-up, kept succinct as to squeeze in as rock clichés. A year later, changes would adds some lovely harmonies) confirm- much as I could. begin within the lineup, and by ing that McKee's voice and muse are still the mid-'70s Gadler, Ferguson and serving her well. She’s has always had a NRBQ Staley were all gone, and NRBQ powerhouse voice capable of keeping up Call us with Your Special Orders. 'Ludlow’s Garage' became the long-running quartet with a full rock band, but Live Acoustic Sundazed Records of Adams, Spampinato, guitar giant Tour 2006 shows she also has the good Fast Turnaround! Right out of the Al Anderson, and drummer Tom sense to know when to let loose with Overnight Delivery in most Cases. box NRBQ were a Ardolino. But that's another story an operatic fury and when to dial down different kind of band for another time. This Ludlow a more subtle approach; she very rarely with an approach and show is the earliest official live Q on oversteps her bounds here preferring to attitude all their own. record, and as such is an essential investigate the nooks and crannies of the Wildly unpredictable, document, not to mention one righ- songs to moving effect. McKee primar- often chaotic, endlessly teous set of live music. **** ily focuses on her own material, ranging inventive and non-stop from her Lone Justice years to her most fun, NRBQ quickly became one of those Robyn Hitchcock recent studio efforts but she also throws in you-have-to-see-them-live-to-understand- 'Ole’ Tarantula' some well-chosen covers, including three their-greatness bands that never quite Yep Roc Records songs written by her late brother Bryan managed to capture their particular genius In 2004, Robyn Hitchcock's loose MacLean (including a lovely interpreta- in a studio setting. and folk inflected Spooked saw the tion of "Orange Skies" from Love's Da Steeped in everything from deep soul creepy-crawly loving eccentric enlist- Capo) and a version of "In the Long Run" to out-there jazz to roots rock & roll to ing the unlikely help of David Rawlings from Beyond the Valley of the Dolls that harmonic pop to whatever oddball stuff and Gillian Welch. This time around may have started as a joke but plays quite came into their orbit, NRBQ shed rock's he's backed by REM stalwarts Peter sweetly as a homage to '70s LA rock. And heft, threw their collective influences into Buck, Scott McCaughey, and Bill Rieflin when McKee sings "Breathe," "High Dive," the hopper, shuffled them around and along with his former Soft Boys mates or "A Good Heart," there's little question created something new and refreshingly Kimberley Rew and Morris Windsor, that she's a major artist with a wealth of original-and that approach has never been Faces keyboardist Ian McLagan, Harvey talent as both a songwriter and a vocalist, altered. This January 1970 concert record- Danger's Sean Nelson, and ex-President of and even in the most simple of circum- ing found the original Q — augmented, the United States of America Chris Ballew. stances she delivers a performance that's as they have often been, by horn players A small army indeed, but a tasteful one. moving and deeply evocative; in short, this Donn Adams and Keith Spring-in sizzling Olé! Tarantula sounds like a trip back to isn't just another stopgap live album. (And form at Cincinnati's Ludlow Garage. the iconic singer/songwriter's early A&M don't skip past the unlisted cover of Neil Among the faithful it's circulated via days. Long, Byrds-inspired harmonies, jan- Young's "Barstool Blues.") **** bootleg for years but the official release gled electric guitars, and random bursts of is a stunning reminder of just how sweet piano, harmonica, and saxophone pepper Charley Pride fate can be-that such like-minded players the collection in fits, seasoning Hitchcock's 'Anthology' (hailing from Kentucky, the Bronx and already delicious wordplay with exactly the BMG Heritage Miami) could not only serendipitously right amount of spice. Opener "Adventure There have been plenty of Charley find one another, but use their collective Rocket Ship" sounds like a lost track from Pride collections issued throughout the the-hell-with-preconceptions attitudes and the early years, the kind of confident psy- years, but none better than this. Over encyclopedic musical knowledge to their chedelic rocker that at one time spilt from the course of two discs and 40 tracks, advantage is a blessed thing. the anti-bard's leafy pen like battery on rice Anthology spans his two decades with At Ludlow, on a bill with blues guitar paper. RCA, from his first single "Before I Met master Albert King, NRBQ unleashed all In the warm, weird, and nostalgic You" in 1966 to 1985's "Down on the of their madness on a crowd undoubtedly "Belltown Ramble," he manages to rope Farm." Between those two songs are all comprised of those who'd already been an Uzbek warlord, email, R.E.M., and of his biggest hits-from "Just Between indoctrinated, those who'd soon be bowing Orchestral Maneuvers In The Dark into a You and Me," to "The Easy Part's Over at their altar, and those who'd spend the set motor-mouthed stroll through town and and right into "Is Anybody Goin' to San scratching their heads. After all, this was a time must be heard to be believed. It's Antone?” Since Pride was a constant band that slid easily Doo Wop to gospel to that perfect balance of sadness, vitriol, and presence at the top of the country charts jazz and right into rhythm and blues (not absurdity that makes Hitchcock such a during these two decades, some massive to mention audacious rock and roll) with- legendary social commentator. He's the (and damn good) hits, particularly some out missing a beat. As musicians, they were jester, the king, the convict, and the execu- the late '70s and early '80s sides but while peerless-you can hear the template for the tioner all wrapped up into one. ***1/2 not everything that should be is here what secret behind the band's long run in the is included is more than choice. Simply looseness that characterizes their playing Maria McKee due to the constraints of the compilation here. Whether covering Little Richard's even at two discs there are only so many ripping "Rip It Up," the Billy Stewart soul 'Live Acoustic Tour 2006' Cooking Vinyl Records songs that can fit on this set. Even with the ballad "Sitting in the Park," or hammering While she's become significantly more absence of these hit singles, Anthology is through a nine-minute epic expansion of productive since leaving the major labels as fine a classic country collection as was Terry Adams' "Kentucky Slop Song," (in behind, a new album from Maria McKee ever assembled: the liner notes are con- which the horns take off on a Dixieland- www.ArtAsheville.com is still a rare and welcome event, and this ‘CD’s’ continued on next pg. 14 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE POETRY DECEMBER POETRY NEWS B y J e f f D a v i s
At the Center: Finding ground to mark that boundary, whence lit the way into winter for me ever since, it was a system of distribution, as an the Winter’s Peace we derive our “palisade”, defined by a and still offer a map through the desolate economist might say, that insured that wall of such stakes, “impale”, an unhappy season, the dark time. sustenance and the necessities of life use of such a stake, and even “travail” and When it came time for me to do reached even the most humble members “travel”, which passes such stakes, such the “field work” my graduate program of the group, however bad the external nlike some mammals, we don’t milestones, as may required, one weather. hibernate. mark the course of of the things Here in our mountains, now bar- We do, though, at this time the journey. that drew me ren of leaves, winter presses down upon of year, when the season brings On Dec. from Buffalo us, so let’s gather together, break out a still peace to the outer world, 15, some of to the coast of the masks, and make some joyful peace UU move inside, into our dwell- Asheville’s fin- British Columbia together as we head into winter. With the ings and into the core of our own beings, est poets will was that the help of our poets and musicians, we’ll get hoping to find peace in the stillness, the gather at the Black Kwakwaka’wakw our spirits warm enough to live in con- dark, peace to carry us through the dif- Mountain College people (you might cord no matter what snow, rain, wind and ficult days until Earth’s dance brings us Museum + Arts know them by chills try to trouble us between now and around to spring again, and a new season Center to explore the name com- spring. of endeavor. Silent night. Holy. Or not. the meanings they monly used for We huddle inside our shelters with our find in this rich them till the own kind, and hope for peace with them. word “peace” and 1980s, Kwakiutl), Soon the hymns will ring out – “Peace on speak from their with whom I’d earth, good will toward men.” Far away, own understand- Kwakwaka’wakw dancers holding a winter celebraion proposed to a war rages, and destroys lives not unlike ings of what this dance which has been done for centuries. study, had, by all If you go: our own every day. And sometimes the season holds. accounts, an exu- What: Poets Read for Peace, a lives of our sons or daughters, our wives Thomas berant way of get- Celebration or husbands, brothers or sisters, mothers Rain Crowe, John Crutchfield, Laura ting into winter as well. For them, it was or fathers. Taken. We may wish for peace Hope-Gill, Gary Lilley, Rose McLarney, the sacred season. They worked all spring When: Friday, Dec. 15, there, too. Sebastian Matthews and I will be, with and summer to accumulate stores of food 8pm It’s a curious word, “peace.” any luck, warming spirits till they’re proof for the winter, gathering berries by the Where: Black Mountain Col- Lexicographers tell us it reaches back, like against winter. basketsful, drying (and now canning) Years ago when I went to Buffalo it salmon by the ton, and then, as the days lege Museum + Art Center. 56 most of the words in our language, to a Broadway, Asheville deep old root in the language we refer was also in a time of war, another war. grew shorter, they readied themselves for to as Indo-European, a root whose stem Notwithstanding the war and winters winter. They assumed their sacred names; Admission: $7 or $5 mem- seems to surface in several directions, all colder than any I’d ever dreamed, I found “Eddie Wallace” say, became “Him Who bers and students with ID. of them bound, as it were, to the funda- Buffalo humanly the warmest city I’d Stands High as a Mountain.” And then it ever known. Perhaps it was my youth, or was time to celebrate, pull out the regalia, More Info www.blackmoun- mental idea of binding, of fastening. So taincollege.org. the Latin “pax,” a binding together by the common circumstance of so many of and gather to celebrate the first dance of treaty or agreement, whence all the uses us in and around the university there, far the winter, “When the Masks Are First Christianity has made of the language away from wherever we’d come from, no Brought into the House.” of peace, in the context of the binding matter how close geographically it might Until the herring and Steelhead together of a community of believers. have been; in that clime we quickly found began running the next spring, they’d “Pax vobiscum. Et cum tu spiritu”, they ourselves several states of mind removed spend the weeks in feasting, hosting said. Peace be with you. And with your from anywhere before. Or perhaps it was reciprocal parties (the English, using a Poet and computor consultant spirit. But it’s also pagan – quite liter- just that the natives of that place knew Chinook word, referred to them as pot- Jeff Davis is a board member of the ally; the pagan originally was a peasant, how to hunker down with each other, latches), asserting by performances their to find a peace together no matter the claims to dances and honorific names, Black Mountain College Museum bound to a delimited place, a piece of + Arts Center. E-mail Davis at land, from the Latin “pagus,” a boundary kind of blizzards raging outside, and we contending in generosity, one clan inun- staked out on the ground, from the same managed to learn enough of the land’s dating another with gifts, and being inun- [email protected]. For more info root. Likewise from that ancient source customs to emulate their strategy. No dated in return. visitnaturespoetry.blogspot.com the Latin “palus”, the stake fixed in the telling. But memories of those days have No one could have starved to death;
‘CD’s’ continued. these elements mix quite nicely on the 'Essential' general public. In this regards Anthology easy-rolling "Savior," delivered with an RCA/Nashville Legacy serves a vital need, spanning 40 tracks over cise and insightful, the photos place the pleasant combination of acoustic guitars, This is a repackaged reissue of the two discs. The set begins with his first big viewer at the seen and the music is equal organ, and drums, and on a handful of BMG Heritage's 2003 compilation con- hit, 1953‘s "Mexican Joe" and ends with parts inventive and imminently listenable. other self penned tunes. With the discs taining a different title and cover art, but "Angels Don't Lie," which charted in 1970, ***1/2 onslaught of words, it might have been bearing the same forty tracks and liner six years after his tragic death. Reeves had nice if the listener had been provided notes. Given that there has been no short- plenty of hits even after 1970; he appeared Stoll Vaughn with a lyric sheet to anchor the experience age of Gentlemen Jim Reeves compila- on the Billboard country charts regularly 'Love Like A Mule' but at least Vaughan enunciates clearly. tions over the years, owing no doubt to his for 20 years after his death-and he had so Shadow Dog Records Despite some unfortunate lyrical sexism deserved reputation as the most imperative many hits during his lifetime that they If a young man had spent his days and (one of the regrettable points picked up pure country crooner to ever emerge from can't all be condensed into one manage- nights listening to '60s centrist folk and from Dylan), the music; well sung solid music city, the necessity for another is cer- able collection. Still what makes The '70s boogie blues, he might have come folk-rock arrangements, make Love Like tainly debatable. Despite the merits of pre- Essential Jim Reeves so good is its expert up with something like "Alright" on a Mule a decent though rather predictable vious collections-ranging from cheap bud- song selection. **** Stoll Vaughan's latest effort. Fortunately neo-classic rock diversion. **1/2 get line toss ups to Bear Family's absurdly Vaughn can also sound contempo- comprehensive 16-CD set- much of rary, pulling at various times from The Jim Reeves Reeve‘s output remains unavailable to the Wallflowers to early period Wilco. All of Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 15 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE BOOKS & PAGES Tell all book falls short on the nitty-gritty
'Red Carpets and Other Everett’s life as a young drama student, someone’s experiences. Perhaps the entire Banana Skins' young romances with stars like Ian purpose of Red Carpets and Other Banana By Rupert Everett McKellen, flirtations with Rudolph Skins was intended to be Everett’s way of Reviewed by Beth Nureyev, his bawdy life in Paris, life in honoring each and every experience he’s Gossett the theatre, his interesting life around had in his life and making the memories the world, his up and down movie as vibrant and emotion-filled as he could career, his meetings and greetings muster through literary means. with such heavyweights as Madonna, Perhaps Everett’s autobiography is Holiday BOOK Shopping upert Everett, best Sean Penn, Richard Harris and Sharon intended more to be his memory book known for his Stone, his flirtations and addictions than it is to be entertainment for the Thurs., 11/30, 7PM: Barbara role in My Best with drugs, sex and alcohol and how it masses, for while it was interesting to read Milberg Fisher discusses her Friend’s Wedding, all made him the person he is today. about Rupert Everett, the man, the actor is one of those actors who every- Red Carpets and Other Banana Skins and the world advocate, I’m not sure that I memoirs, 'In Balanchine’s R one is curious about, but whom is sure to make people sit up and take was entertained by what I read. That is not no one really learns much about via the notice of other folks in Hollywood and to say that there were not some humorous Company' media. how they “really” are. Everyone knows passages or entertaining banter, it simply Everett’s new autobiography, Red that Madonna is a huge diva who’s britch- was not what I expected when I picked Tues., 12/12, 7PM: Malaprop's Carpets and Other Banana Skins, takes es are a bit too big for her, but this book the book up and sat down to read the Book Club hosted by Mary Park readers inside his life and his thoughts further illuminates that description of her autobiography of Rupert Everett. I think from his childhood through current time. through Everett’s personal acquaintance I was expecting some of the background Ford, will meet in the Cafe Everett describes for readers his early with her. Everett has no problem with I read, but I also think I expected more life in England with his family and pin- telling it like it is, so I’m not sure how exciting gossip and anecdotes about the life to discuss 'Saturday' by Ian points the exact moment when he knew other Hollywood-types will embrace this of a Hollywood actor. I think I was looking McEwan, the best-selling author he was gay. As he recounts, his mother book, but then again, who cares, the story for more dish and less self-explanation. and nanny took him to see his first movie, is about Everett…not them. If you are expecting this book to be a of 'Atonement' New members are Mary Poppins, at age 6. For Everett, it was While the book is wholly descriptive tell-all, larger than life look at Hollywood, welcome to join. as if the world opened up in a whole new about the life of the writer, it’s almost too you will be disappointed. If you go in way for him. After seeing the movie, he descriptive in that it digresses in several reading the book to get a perspective passages. It’s one thing to describe an on the life of a very vivacious man who Thurs., 12/21, 5:30PM: Women began daydreaming that he was the child of Julie Andrews…and maybe even Mary experience of being in one’s first play, first is dedicated to a life of acting then Red on Words. Poetry workshop Poppins herself, and he began wearing romance, first movie, first…whatever, Carpets and Other Banana Skins will be his mother’s discarded red tweed skirt to but a reader does not need every detail an exceptional read for you. for women. New members are accentuate the daydream. That’s when he of every single experience of one’s life. welcome! knew who he really was and embraced it. Most people don’t even want to know The book contains passages about that much even in a conversation about Thurs., 12/28, 6:30 PM: Blind Date with Poetry. Host Matt Moon. Monthly poetry open mic. This Great guide book to see all of Asheville and WNC month's featured poet is Bruce Spang. 'The Ultimate Guide to Asheville services, places of worship get- America City and they played that up tre- & The Western North Carolina ting around the area and giving mendously, but I digress. That being said, Happy HOLIDAYS Mountains' people a basic lay of the land, find out in Pantas’ book why and what Pantas also offers up some gave Asheville such a wonderful distinc- AND HAVE A SAFE AND WONDERFUL By Lee Pantas Reviewed by Beth Gossett interesting historical bits about tion. NEW YEAR! Asheville and the surrounding Concerned about the environment of areas. Western North Carolina? The Ultimate Want some information Guide to Asheville & The Western North about Bele Chere? There’s a Carolina Mountains has an entire chap- 55 Haywood St. whole chapter just on that sub- ter on that very issue and who and what 828-254-6734 • 800-441-9829 ee Pantas, with his ject alone. Need to satisfy your groups are doing to keep our mountains Asheville guidebook fine arts fix? Check out Pantas’ and waters pristine and protected. Hours: Mon-Thurs—8am-9pm entitled, The Ultimate Guide to chapters on art and crafts galleries and If you’re looking to go to college or Fri & Sat—8am-10pm Asheville & The Western North then use one of his handy-dandy maps university in the Asheville area or have Sun—8am-7pm Carolina Mountains, has been to help you get to where you need to go. any medical procedures done at an area able to take all the books previ- Staying at the Grove Park Inn? Want to hospital, learn all you can in Pantas’ chap- ouslyL written on the area, and what to do know what to do there and around the ters on these subjects. They’re sure to give and what to see while you’re here, and Inn…this book will tell you all about it. you great information and resources if you condense it into one easy to read, easy to Did you know that Asheville has want to do some additional research. access reference guide. been designated an All-America City? I So, to recap if you’re looking for a Whether you’re looking to move to sure didn’t…and I’ve lived here a little travel book to really tell you how to travel the area and settle down, take daytrips more than two years! While you think that in Asheville, The Ultimate Guide to to the area or take a week or more and Asheville would capitalize on this designa- Asheville & The Western North Carolina vacation in the Asheville area, this book tion, as far as I can tell they haven’t. I’ve Mountains is the quintessential book for has the information you need. While giv- never seen sign one that advertises that you. ing useful information on who to con- around the area…and that seems like that tact in the area for places to stay, eat and would be a major tourist plus. That is to things to do, employment, relocations say, Charleston, SC was denoted an All- 16 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE THEATRE Flat Rock Playhouse holds beloved holiday classic by Neil Harris construction is shows are Thursday, Friday and Saturday the YouTheatre at 7:15pm, with two matinees on Saturday, Education Dec. 16 at 10:15am and 2:15pm; and a Center. This Sunday matinee at 2:15pm. project is the Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for he Best first Capital students and children and can be pur- Christmas Campaign chased at the Playhouse box office by call- Pageant to ever be ing (828) 693-0731. Ever, writ- undertaken T ten by Barbara by Flat Rock Robinson, is the story of Playhouse. a family of incorrigible For children who hear the information Christmas story for the about the first time and help every- YouTheatre one else rediscover its Education true meaning. Center please When the Herdmans contact Dale show up at the church Bartlett, Christmas Pageant tryouts Development — everyone is horrified. What happens when the Herdman children show Director, (828) Why? Because they are up at a church Christmas Pageant? 693-0403 ext. horrible children. They 209. steal, burn down buildings, and terrorize Executive Producers Tom and B the neighborhood. When the Herdmans J Ramer and their Family present The find out that they can get treats if they Best Christmas Pageant Ever onstage two go to Sunday School, they show up and weekends. The week of Dec. 8, evening 10-5:30 Mon-Sat volunteer to be in the annual Pageant, and shows are Friday and Saturday at 7:15pm, In Woodfin insist upon playing the main characters. with matinees on Saturday and Sunday The town thinks they belong in the care of at 2:15pm. The week of Dec. 14, evening the local police. But to everyone’s surprise, the Herdmans pull it off. True, it’s in their own style. In the end, the Herdmans, who have never heard the Christmas story 2006-2007 SEASON • SEIZE THE PLAY! and don’t understand what all the fuss is about — appreciate the true meaning of immediate theatre project Christmas better than the children who have been hearing the Christmas story w w w .nc s tage.org | www.imme diate the atr e .or g since birth. Even the adults in the show are touched by the simple faith of the Herdmans and end up praising them for making this “the best Christmas pageant )TS ! 7ONDERFUL ,IFE ever.” Your family will love the story of how ! ,IVE 2ADIO 0LAY the Herdmans and their community learn to work together. The Best Christmas Pageant is a fun show with a great lessons to teach, lessons of kindness, honesty, courage, and friendship. This is a chuck- le-around-every-corner-action-packed account of how one town deals with the biggest Christmas-pageant challenge in their history. Directed by Betsy Bisson, the cast of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is made up of over 50 talented students from Henderson County. In addition to the student performers, a team of adults from the community round out the cast. The production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is supported in part by an award from The National Endowment for $ECEMBER the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art. AT .ORTH #AROLINA 3TAGE #OMPANY (AYWOOD 3T Flat Rock Playhouse is pleased to foster the educational and artistic growth of our community’s children and hopes that participation in its YouTheatre programs encourages a life- long appreciation of the arts. Now under
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 17 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FEATUREPOET The poetry of Jaye Bartell edited by Jeff Davis
Muggy A Note from the Editor: We Jared and Duncan Dancing Ah, Sam Parting Words feature poets, some known, some not, who’ve For Sam Adams for Kathy Godfrey provided a body of work that seems to merit Your eyes do not The radical act alter, is showing the facts more complete articulation than a single poem You could provide. Our poet this month is Jay stones over which of oneself when take the carried foods. Bartell. passes the water. there are others optional eat the carried foods. were not once one thing Bartell was born in Massachusetts and repressive or else canteen, burlap, prickles... but many interactions has since lived and worked in Asheville and in Lashes, bank-side transparently truly me suddenly become grass Friday Harbor, WA; shortly after his appear- grasses, a wish to be free a cowboy type lashed under mud over rock ance here, he’s on his way to Buffalo, NY. comb motes from circumspect finesse can grin despite at the river, or in the flesh Curator of Asheville’s now discontinued Fresh blinks of winds. there's no cows furrowed shale of oak bark Air Reading Series, he is currently a contribut- on one's own bones spurs, other regalia, ribbon of May ivy. ing editor of Capgun, a New York-based pub- And by your nose's even a horse at all- lication. His work has appeared (or will appear Makes a Bird ...walking away from me shortly) in Cutbank, Rivendell, Capgun, The bridge, except by a measurement Ampersand, and is viewable always at: mark of a step of a inclusive of ache, the pastoral comforts are Wind in a holly berry piss to the nose? Although www.makesabird.blogspot.com. vision that entered in, makes a bird conceal. the distance and span Poets wishing to submit work for future of the trip made the natural facts of which you are publications should send at least three poems passed through the We'd seen one another to disperse or reflection could fan your fearful leav- to [email protected] or water, seeing one, an other. accept through use ing [email protected] silt on the stone, the lonesome ember. with breeze that lifts ash seed that softens the stone. First, wind moves, then from dandelion holly berry, move, Raven shuttles dust toward new fire. old leaf shuttling in • Boundaries with air still now you're You are going to Spain. th here. annual Land's cove Sketch: Haywood St. I am not going to Spain. crumbs of stone Wind in any company (Then Shall Break) The time is improper. More Poetry lines from the often confuses sociality. I don't have a ticket for the ship. Contest. landing Elm trees It's sad? It is then that I am leaving widows of since I am not leaving. trace perimeter elm leaves 10 Driving with Duncan Any unpublished poem 35 lines • Shapes will not glut or less is wanted! Surroundings His elastic mind I cannot now remember of water truly proposes a way how earlier in the year memory, but the odor define the this street appeared of oranges we ate that 5 winners. water, specify to go is afternoon with no the water. Dinner for two at Tripps. circular when a marriage held sentimentality as distance circuitous together-bough to bud, has created, swells, and colorfully Go to the ALO Opera. Cup on the table oranges elicit a sense of health, a lake down the way blooms, show of natural gently, when peeled the pocks of the rind Books from Malaprop's and edges are the fences as a tree's from which names actual togetherness then. spray the joy that groves allow CDs from Karmasonics! aging spins a and inside, cells of fruit arise, define the manner round line Separate, we separate More Prizes to come — stay only from an old formation. have such fresh wetness of drinking outward that moistens the dry mind. tuned! of fording outward "And then shall your light... of wading I am brushing back the rind of swimming "And then shall your light... ripples etched "And then shall your light... of my hair, and taking a wedge or drowning coming centrally Deadline Dec. 8th. Winners "And then shall your light... of memory from the sectioned globe I see your face's presence and for lack of attention and this is our progres- will be notified by Dec. to shore's definition. "break." eating the odor of your laughter sion. remembered is not sour. 16. Winning poems will be printed in the Jan 2007 Pigeon with Broken Foot issue. Reading fee: $5 for five Now: poverty, poems. More info call We're not doing well maimed while requiring having, formerly, strength, as all the time. (828) 646-0071. free of mar flown, The others, Good luck! landed- no scathes press press chase us, Send poems to: contacting pavement, and they are despicable Jaye Bartell slight hustle fucks Rapid River Poetry Contest quick to harrowing the damaged 85 N. Main St. again to which in the them, latent Canton, NC 28716 flight. too will wreck.
18 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE OPERA Asheville Lyric Opera Education Series presents Menotti’s 'Amahl and the Night Visitors' by Dennis Ray recording was lost. can be heard in many local, regional and national The story is about a young television and radio voice over spots. tudents are the heart of the educa- physically challenged boy Dylan Wheeler (Amahl) played and sang in tion system — its whole purpose (Amahl) and his mother who Evergreen Community Charter School’s Embe and its major resource. are faced with hunger and cold Marimba band for three years. He has per- How can their potential be in their small hut. The boy who formed at LEAF and Rotary Club Meetings with nurtured and tapped as schools is quite imaginative tells his Embe. He has performed at NC Stage Company work toward more active learning, mother he has seen a bright star in a school Shakespearean play and has performed and higher standards and expecta- in the heavens. A new star that several middle school plays. Dylan is a freshman tions?S has never been there before. She at Asheville High School. Getting students out of the class- thinks little of this since he has Aaron Schnurbusch (Kaspar), lyric tenor, has room to learn first hand a project from told her so many stories in the performed Goro from Madama Butterfly, Lippo start to finish is one way. past. Fiorentino in Street Scene, Brighella from Ariadne The Asheville Lyric Opera and the Three Wise Men, on their auf Naxos and�������� the Anfü�hrer������� in K�urt����������� Weill’s Der Asheville high school choral program way to Bethlehem, stop at the Zar läst sich photographieren. Recently, he has offers performances this December Original ALO artwork by Gloria Gaffney hut and ask to be taken in for been performing with the ALO chorus and designed to further music and arts the night. Amahl and his moth- Education and Outreach program. education in schools and in the commu- er welcome them and their Page as well as nity. ALO works directly with teachers, o Students will understand the they can, and are much astonished at the Timothy Wilds (Melchior), a native of Asheville, parents and young people in a collabora- importance and relevance of splendor of their robes and the wealth of NC, is an accomplished and experienced per- tive effort to create programs that make Classical music and American gifts they are carrying with them. When former in concert and on stage. He regularly per- opera accessible and appealing to everyone. opera by studying this quint- Amahl’s mother realizes that the Three forms with Fuma Sacra, the ensemble-in-residence This presentation, Menotti’s Amahl and essential American opera by Kings are looking for a newborn child and of Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, the Night Visitors, was made available to Menotti. that the expensive gifts are all destined for under the direction of Dr. Andrew Megill. He area students grades 3-12 as a cultural and o At the high school level, students him, she becomes bitter and envious. She has most recently performed the roles of Morales artistic introduction to opera and classical have the chance to work with cannot understand why at least some of (Carmen), Fiorello and Ambrosius (Barber of opera professionals in their own Seville), Benoit and Alcindoro (La Bohème), Elder music. Students worked and performed these gifts could not be given to her own MacLean (Susannah) with the Union Avenue along side professional singers and direc- educational environment. child, who is so poor and sickly. Opera Theatre of St. Louis, MO; two produc- tors and artistic staff. o Students in Asheville High While the Three Kings are asleep, the tions of Amahl and the Night Visitors in the role Learning from doing and seeing shows School’s choral program will mother steals some of the gold from them of Melchior for DaySpring School of the Arts in the student what it takes to create and play the roles of Amahl, the only to be caught red-handed. When she Maryland Heights, MO and Krusina (Bartered finish a major project. Start strong, follow Page and the Shepherds and explains she needs the gold to feed her Bride) and Papageno (Magic Flute) for the through, finish strong. If all the pieces are Shepherdesses. starving child, she is readily forgiven. With Masterworks Festival in Houghton, NY. there, then the project will be finished. As o Asheville High School’s Choral great tenderness they try to explain to her with anything, it’s the creating that is more Director will play the role of the who this newborn child is and how much Roberto Flores (Balthazar) arrives on the important than the end result. Mother, providing a direct pro- he needs the love of every human being to Asheville stage after years of performing Musical fessional faculty connection to Theatre and Opera in Florida, New Jersey and Area school students got the oppor- build his coming kingdom. Touched by Virginia. tunity to study with professional opera these young artists. their words, she not only gives back the players and to now perform in front of a o Asheville Lyric Opera mentors stolen gold, but wishes she could add a gift Cameron Gregg (Page) was last seen at Asheville live audience. a year long apprenticeship with of her own. Amahl impulsively hands the High School in Play On. At the Reid Center, “Over the past eight years the com- one of the Asheville High School Three Kings his wooden crutch, his most he appeared in The Physicists and as Buddy in munity has given so much to the Asheville students who will also perform in precious possession, and in so doing he is The Diviners. Also at Asheville High School, Lyric Opera company, it’s only right we the opera. This student has also miraculously healed. he played Cornelius in Hello Dolly. Professional constantly give back,” says Director of prepared an educational study When dawn appears, the Three Kings credits at the Southern Appalachian Repertory ALO, David Starkey. “The students have guide as a supplement to the stu- prepare to resume their journey. Amahl Theatre (SART) include young Jim in Shelton been amazed at how much goes on behind dents attending the opera. begs his mother to let him join them, and Laurel, Jay in Lost in Yonkers, The Lion the Witch o Students from the surrounding and The Wardrobe, Annie Get Your Gun, Pedrolino the scenes of a major production. I’m ex- he is finally allowed to follow the Kings to in Pinocchio Commedia, and ensemble in Frankie. tremely pleased with how well they are all Asheville area who participate in Bethlehem to adore and give thanks to the At New American Theatre in Illinois, he was a doing. It’s going to be a incredible show. the Asheville Lyric Opera’s Vocal Christ Child. Lost Boy in Peter Pan. He played Young Cain in It’s really going to be quite stunning.” Arts Program will join the cast of the Mars Hill College Theatre Arts Department’s Starkey, who also will be directing this Shepherds and Shepherdesses. The cast: production of Children of Eden. For Asheville year’s performance adds, “We plan to do a o Students of Asheville High Vicki Hogan (Mother), soprano, assumed the Community Theatre, he was in Falsettos and different one act opera each year with the School’s Theatre Department will position of choral director at Asheville High Babe the Sheep Pig. At Carolina Day School local schools.” have the opportunity to assist in School beginning in 2005. An active vocalist as he was Peter in Peter Pan and played Johnny ALO performed Menotti’s Amahl and preparing and operating the tech- well as choral director, Hogan performed numer- Screech in The Wrecking Crew’s production of nical elements of the production. ous leading roles in the Oklahoma City Lyric The Adventures of Dottie in Waterland. Cameron the Night Visitors for four seasons (2001- Theatre for four seasons and was a featured sopra- is a 10th grader at Asheville High, and his voice ’04) as a main stage production, casting no soloist with the semi-professional choral group can be heard nationally, regionally and locally for professionals (except for the roles of chil- Lawton Pro Musica in Oklahoma City. numerous radio and television voice over spots. dren), at Diana Wortham Theatre. Amahl and the Night Visitors (Opera “Now we’re bringing Amahl back,” in One Act) First performed Christ- Lucas Gregg (Amahl) was last seen in Shelton Starkey says, “as an introduction to our mas Eve, 1951, by the NBC Television Laurel at Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre Dec. 16: 2pm and Dec. 18: 7pm Educational series. It’s such a wonderful Theater. (SART). Other SART roles include Lost In Yonkers, $15 per adult / $6 per student/child story and we felt since so many people One of the most popular of Ameri- The Adventures of Dottie in Waterland, The Lion, Where: Asheville High School grew up with this opera on TV and you can operas, Menotti’s work is performed the Witch and the Wardrobe, Annie Get Your Gun Auditorium. (828) 236-0670 can’t watch it anymore, that it would be throughout the country every Christmas and Pinocchio. He appeared in Shadowlands, Six [email protected] season. It’s the first opera ever written Characters in Search of an Author and Midsummer the perfect production to begin with.” Nights Dream at Mars Hill College. Gregg is a 7th Visit www.ashevillelyric.org expressly for television, and it was replayed grader at Asheville Middle School. Lucas’ voice on NBC every year until the original video Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 19 RAPID RIVER ARTS FEATURE Life diamonds of South Africa By Byron Belzak
The diamond cutters of FestDiam and independent American jewelers, including Jewels That Dance, help support the Refilwe community foundation near Johannesburg that directly helps impoverished and orphaned South Africans.
I NEEDED TO KNOW f there is one town full of people “I needed to know,” said Dawkins. who are aware and care about what “How can I professionally and ethically goes on in the world both near and work with diamonds? I can’t lie to my far to them, it’s Asheville. customers. I can’t lie to myself. How do One of Asheville’s best known I rationalize selling this product given the independent jewelers, Paula lifestyle of this town and of myself? How Dawkins,I owner of Jewels That Dance, do I do that?” was driven to know the truth about the That’s why she and store manager South African diamonds she buys, crafts Marlene Clevenger recently made the 30- and sells. hour airplane trek and spent two weeks “Asheville is a politically hot town, touring South Africa, known for its leg- so you need to know what you’re talk- endary diamonds and a history of racial ing about,” said Dawkins in an exclusive strife, and remains a mystery to most in interview with Rapid River Magazine. “So the US. it was important to us to see what was “We get such mixed reports over here really happening and what was going on about these countries,” said Dawkins. “We in the country from where we buy our hear the workers are exploited, that they diamonds.” aren’t getting good wages, that diamonds are stolen and sold and the money is used
20 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS FEATURE
In South Africa, Jewels That Dance owner Paula Dawkins cradles 3,000 carats of diamonds in the rough valued at approximately $2.4 million. She knows firsthand that she offers her customers only socially responsible diamonds that are carefully tracked by The Kimberly Process developed by DeBeers. to kill people in wars. So that’s part of the PROFESSIONAL ALL THE WAY reason why we went there.” Paula Dawkins explained that while
NOT “BLOOD ‘Diamonds’ continued on pg. 35 DIAMOND” What Dawkins and Clevenger discovered instead was a country that was not at all of the hor- ror stories told by some and now depicted in a new action movie of con- flict and intrigue, entitled “Blood Diamond,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. “The great example of how the diamond industry has been good to the peo- ple is in South Africa and Botswana,” said Dawkins. “These two countries are democracies. Their gov- ernments have mandated that the diamond industry must give back to their people.” Said Clevenger: “There are a lot of immi- grants coming into South Africa and Botswana, because it’s a promise land of sorts. That’s why there are shantytowns, but that’s a first step. They have a shot at being part of the middle class there.” Added Dawkins: “These two countries are building a middle class. Diamonds are the biggest export they have. It solves a number of issues within the countries.”
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 21 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WINE & DINE
Support your regional wineries: Childress Vineyards - plus: Nouveau Night Roundup by Michael Parker
Fortunately, the Worth the money. s the number of wineries in NC Childress following Recommended Childress approaches 60, it is high time to is mostly focused on wines : consider what that says about what the winery was quality and potential from our built to do: produce Starboard, port-style dessert region’s soil and talent. world-class wines. wine ($14). This was the glass that put Jokes about NC wines are Enhancing that Childress on my map. True to form, Ano longer funny. experience is the visi- I was blown away when told this is Childress Vineyards, in Lexington, tor-friendly villa and entirely made from rabbiteye blueberries. heavily invested in the southeast end of winemaking complex. Impossible, but an absolute bargain. the Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Inside, a well-trained, Area. Ground broke for the impressive, unpretentious staff Cabernet Franc, Reserve 2004 ($25). 35,000 square foot Tuscan-style facility in Richard Childress, a native North in the tasting room. In the dining room This red reminded me of the success September 2003. It opened eleven months Carolinian and NASCAR team owner, and terrace serve the food of Executive of reserve Cab-Franc bottlings here in later, and promptly produced 15,000 cases. whose team included the nearly-immor- Chef David Thomas, personal chef for the Asheville. It seems the grape has found a They buy grapes from regional growers as talized Dale Earnhardt. Childress Earnhardt racing family. good home in North Carolina, and in this they cultivate their own vineyards. remarked, “It’s been a dream to locate 97 years have past since North case delivers a bolder, complex wine. Minimal exposure to Childress wines a winery in my native state and in the Carolina ranked as the nation’s lead- county that has been so good to me and tells a lot about the winemaker’s focus ing producer of wine, a bragging right Sangiovese ($17). From the Summerfield and skill. The 2005 Viognier is made in my racing business.” that ended when the state went dry in vineyard of Richard Childress’s partner, a Rhone style, true to its French heri- Not only is this part of a revival of 1909. Today, the state ranks 12th in wine Greg Johns, this red was too good to tage, avoiding the trendy, overly floral, NC’s winemaking past, it is an amusing production and 10th in grape growing. blend. Expect medium body and softer, fat style more common in Viognier from reflection of NASCAR’s roots. Stock car Clearly, rank does not necessarily indicate rounded fruit. California. A red made from Sangiovese racing evolved specifically in response to quality. Quality indicates quality. In Mark Prohibition. Fast cars outran the feds as speaks very well for the growing region. Friszolowski’s words, “A restaurant can- Viognier 2005 ($15). This white wine The grape is commonly blended in they shipped alcoholic beverages to a pub- not put out a bad meal, and a winery must grape is another that grows well in our other parts of the world to mask hard- lic stupidly deprived by lawmakers who release a good wine every single time.” state. Friszolowski’s style is a wise depar- ness and acidity, but this North Carolina pandered to a powerful temperance move- ture from the bigger west coast styles and Sangiovese is too good to blend. ment. Today, powerful funding from www.childressvineyards.com more closely resembles a white Rhone. Winemaker Mark Friszolowski is professional racing fortifies a mission in Just west of Lexington, NC, at the cross- Some time in oak is evident, and the fruit a Long Island native, and there gained world-class winemaking, over yonder in roads of U.S 52 and U.S. 64 is more pleasant. special experience. One of the few things Yadkin Valley. phone: (336) 236-WINE The racing connection is a somewhat North Carolinians would admit hav- open every day 10-6 Pinot Gris 2005 ($15). A particularly cit- ing in common with New Yorkers is a tangled discussion where stereotypes want Sunday noon-6 rus-y style makes this white wine a pleas- general skepticism of their local wines. to fly: pickup beds supporting giant cool- Lunch at the Bistro 10-3 ant thirst-quencher. Lightly floral, plus a Friszolowski has repeatedly broken that ers of domestic beer and derriere compete Brunch at the Bistro Noon-3 little something else on the nose. barrier in his career. with the lofty air-conditioned viewing Impressively, Friszolowski appren- boxes of a presumably wine-and-cheese Nouveau Night – well done! Sparking Wine – Stay tuned ticed under renowned international crowd. This year’s Nouveau Night was once Production of their first is underway, so enologist and viticuluralist, Dimitri That highlights the balancing act of the two best in my eleven years of remember this in the meantime: Biltmore Tchelistcheff, one of the world’s most that such a wine supplier has to manage. going. This rather pricey wine tasting is Estate excels at sparkling wine. Their skilled winemakers. Instead of submitting Downplaying wine’s stuffy image is neces- not as much about the wine as it is a big regular has always been good, and their a résumé for his current position, he sent sary to increase demand and spread the social event, and local independent restau- Brut, Vintage Brut, and Brut Rose are all in a case of his wine. Now, as then, his joy, but maintaining wine’s image as one rants lend a lot of high-quality support. very well done. Many people still wait for products show he is the right man for the of the finer things in life is essential to Many thanks are due to the organizers. improvements in several of their regu- job. quality control and satisfying those buyers lar reds and whites, but Biltmore fizz is The winery is the namesake of as their wine knowledge grows. always a good buy.
December Tastings Champagne Tasting, Wed. 12/6, 7pm. Seated. $30 Wine Dinner at the Left Bank, Thurs. 12/14, 7pm. $60 inclusive. Call (828) 251-5552 for Reservations White & Red Bordeaux Tasting, Thurs. 12/20, 7pm. $25 Seated
555 Merrimon Ave. (828) 254-6500 1200 Hendersonville Rd. (828) 277-1120 Asheville, North Carolina 22 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FOODREVIEWS Want a little mussel? Bouchon has the best town! by Secret Reviewer
Bouchon The Details: • Price range-Small plates $5-9, Big • The salads are great especially the 62 North Lexington • Ambiance-Relaxed, warm and inviting plates $8-18. Grand Pere with thick bacon and wal- Asheville, NC 28801 with casual French décor. There are nuts and an evening special salad with 828-350-1140 about 15 tables plus courtyard dining My Favorites: asparagus and blue cheese dressing. www.ashevillebouchon.com when weather permits. • The mussels are the best in town! • The desserts are delectable. I love Hours: From 5-till Mon. -Sat. • Cleanliness-Very clean and well kept. There are three choices, Parisienne the chocolate orange pot de crème • Sanitation Rating-98 with no critical with white wine and shallots, and will always order it first if avail- violations. Bruxelloise with Chimay beer and able. Then the chocolate mousse and • Service-The service is excellent; I mustard, plus the Mediterranean with an evening special dessert titled the saffron, tomato and white wine. African Queen. This is a fillo pas- The mussels are fresh, plump try encasing a creamy banana filling ouchon is a quaint little The mussels are fresh, plump and ten- and tender. But that is not all, topped with a caramel cream sauce. It gem the heart of down- der. But that is not all, you also get their you also get their famous Frites is luscious! town Asheville. (french fries) which are incred- This is one of those famous Frites (french fries) which are ibly crisp and tender. I con- Areas for Improvement: restaurants to put on incredibly crisp and tender. I consider this sider this meal to be a culinary • Open back up for lunch hours. yourB “must try” list. Walking into meal to be a culinary orgasm! orgasm! • Update the menu eliminating the Bouchon is like going to a rustic • The smoked trout little typographical errors. French village café. The menu is plate is very tasty. It is a plate delightful and amusing in that all of crackers topped with an aioli The Bottom Line: items listed are in French and English, but never have to wait for a thing. The and smoked trout. I usually do not • Bouchon is truly a little gem of a res- the French also has the phonetic pronun- chef makes the rounds to see how like the fishy taste of trout but this taurant in their culinary skill, quality ciation so you get a French lesson while everyone is enjoying their meal. was perfect. of service, and relaxing atmosphere to you drool over the details. • Food-Simple and elegant. The menu • The Escargot Bourguignon is deli- dine with friends and family. It shows they do not take themselves is limited but not lacking. Soup, sal- cious with the garlic butter sauce and • Check out their menu online and too seriously. ads, cheeses, crepes, pate, in addition bread for dipping. Bouchon is prob- keep in mind the specials change to a steak, chicken, pasta, and seafood ably the only place in town to try this daily. selection. French delicacy. • Make reservations.
Come have a relaxing dinner. For the family or just for the
two of you. Lunch: Mon.-Sat., 11-4:30pm Dinner: Mon.-Thurs., 5-9:30pm; Fri. Sat., 5-10pm
www.JerusalemGardenCafe.com
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 23 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 'A SWANNANOA SOLSTICE' — ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT
rammy award-winning, ist who Warren Wilson East” and “Christ Child’s Lullaby,” an multi-instrumentalists Al favors an College President ancient Gaelic carol still sung at midnight Petteway and Amy White altered Doug Orr who masses in Scotland. Other selections celebrate the winter holidays tuning, opens the show include traditional mountain melodies and the release of their new draw from with lyrical poetry; such as “While Roving on A Winter’s CD Winter Tidings, in A Swannanoa a broad members of the Night,” and “Wondrous Love” and a few GSolstice 7pm Sunday, Dec 17 at Diana variety of Warren Wilson original pieces such as “Into the Light” Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in down- cultural College Chorale written by Amy White. The performance town Asheville. influences directed by Dr. concludes with a special arrangement of In this annual event, world-renowned from Milt Crotts; The “Coventry Carol” featuring members of musicians Petteway and White with spe- Middle Twisty Cuffs, local the Warren Wilson College Chorale. cial guests Robin Bullock, Doug Orr, East Cape Breton-style Andy Irwin, The Twisty Cuffs, and The tonalities stepdancers; and Warren Wilson College Chorale, share to Scottish Andy Irwin, a holiday songs old and new, religious and jigs. singer-songwriter, secular, in a warm and intimate winter White, comedian, thespian concert in the theatre. The trio embraces on piano, and storyteller. A Who: A Swannanoa Solstice all manner of seasonal sounds and fes- mandolin, Swannanoa Solstice What: Mainstage Encore Series tivities and they perform well-mastered guitar, Winter snow on trees. Photo by Al White is presented annu- When: 7pm. Sunday, Dec. 17 Celtic and Appalachian songs and music Celtic harp ally in partnership Diana Wortham Theatre at on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, piano, Celtic and percus- with The Swannanoa Where: harp, Irish bouzouki, vocals and world sion, draws on her classical background to Gathering at Warren Wilson College. Pack Place percussion. create harmonic arrangements. Bullock, a A Swannanoa Solstice features instru- Ticket Prices: Regular: $28; Through music and storytelling, multi-instrumentalist who plays the guitar, mental renditions of holiday songs from Senior: $26; Student: $23; Child: $10 Bullock, Petteway and White explore fiddle and bouzouki is hailed as a master Petteway and White’s new album Winter Info/Tickets: Box Office Tidings shared winter traditions with energy, flat picker whose style skillfully embraces , a collection of songs that gives (828)257-4530 or visit color and lyricism. The melodies played Celtic music. new life to traditional holiday classics by Petteway, a virtuosic acoustic guitar- This year’s special guests include such as “Joy to the World,” “Star in the www.dwtheatre.com
24 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 25 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE COVERSTORY New 'Area Performing Arts Center' could boost local econemy ‘Center’ continued from pg. 5
and choral concerts, opera, dance, theater, This report was pre- How much money are we talking chamber music all in the same theater. sented to city council in the about for a standalone PAC? At this stage, The majority of these PACs seat between fall of 2005 and things, appar- most estimates seem to run in the $75 1600 and 2400 people. This model does ently, started to get interest- - $85 million range, not counting the cost have its compromises; for example, a ing. According to Dr. Battle of land and parking. In addition, the PAC multi-purpose theater may have excellent Haslam, then a member of the would need an endowment of at least $10 acoustics, but not quite as fine as those of AACPA board and one of the million to support its operations going a concert hall. Finally, in addition to the presenters that day, there was “a forward. With a project this size, an effec- main performance space, it’s not unusual total lack of interest” when they tive lead gift would need to be $10 mil- for these smaller PACs to include one made their presentation. “There lion, possibly $20 million. small venue as well. seemed to be a lot of interest So, what are the pieces of this puzzle Another difference is in program- for a new arena, but not for a that need to come together? As a number ming. If you look at a schedule for Lincoln performing arts center.” of people mentioned, it’s a complex prob- Center, you’ll see that symphonies, operas The city council’s response lem. Stated a little differently, it’s a com- and the like are their mainstay. If you look was to appoint a new task plex of large and small problems needing at the schedule of a multi-purpose venue force to study the issue and to be solved. With zero inertia, even small such as Asheville would build, you would report back to the council in problem seems large … deal breakers, likely conclude that it should be called a six months. The six months so to speak. With momentum, however, performing arts and entertainment cen- became eight and the report those same problems seem to get solved. ter. Among the symphonies and chamber was made in May, 2006. At the risk of presumption, here are a music, you would find an equal or greater The report of the task force couple of unsolicited questions or obser- number of events such as touring popu- proposed two options, the orig- vations that might contribute to moving lar/rock/country/jazz vocalists and groups, inal adaptive reuse proposed the effort forward. musical theater, comedy acts, and on and by the AACPA plus an option First, it is probably correct that the on. If you turn from their performance for building a new, standalone majority of citizens either know little schedule to their financial statements, PAC. The main site under dis- or nothing of the campaign for a PAC, you’ll find that entertainment events are cussion was next to city hall, or consider it elitist and of little value usually the dominant contributor to rev- just south of the park. City to them. The reality is it’s an “arts and enue and profitability. council expressed a preference Bronze statues outside of the currant civic center. entertainment” venue, potentially serving Currently, the only space in Asheville for this site, which they own a broad base of people in Asheville and comparable to the above would be the and would consider donating, beyond. Rather than just substantiating Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, which, along to be used for the PAC rather this with marketing surveys, is it not pos- with the arena and exhibition hall make than the new arena. Also, they the entire community. I don’t think they sible to, in effect, market this concept to up most of the Asheville Civic Center. seemed to favor a concept whereby, work- fully appreciate the impact of the arts on these very people. The result would be to Unfortunately, there is unanimity among ing with a commercial developer, a mixed- the economic development of Asheville.” both broaden the base of support for the the professionals consulted that upgrad- use facility might be built. Mixed-use Jan Davis, one of the city coun- PAC and to get rid of that “elitist” tag. ing Thomas Wolfe Auditorium is not an refers to an approach where some com- cil members to serve on the task force, Second, even though such projects option. The small size of the stage, lack bination of retail and professional spaces, offered several observations on the current as this are not typically initiated and led of backstage areas, and lack of accessibility condos and the PAC could be combined, situation. “There has not been an uproar by city councils, isn’t there still a place for larger productions must be corrected, thus reducing the public cost of the facil- from the community. This does not rank for leadership? Are there not those who but the exterior walls of the building ity. The final result was that the city coun- has one of the highest priorities on their appreciate the potential value – culturally and limitations on the potential building cil simply voted to accept the report but list. We can’t afford to just build a facil- and economically – to the community? footprint simply preclude this. In other made no decisions and took no specific ity for people to listen to the symphony Of course that doesn’t imply committing words, if you upgrade the Thomas Wolfe actions. However, the recommendation ... For the average east or west Asheville enormous city resources in spite of the Auditorium, you won’t have a perform- for the adaptive reuse of the civic center family with 2.2 kids, the symphony is not lack of broad community support. It may ing arts center; you’ll have an upgraded appeared to be running a very distant sec- their highest priority. Some would call well, however, suggest an active leadership Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. ond in a two-horse race. this social welfare for the rich.” role in cultivating an appreciation of the So, what do we do? Enter, in late Some members of the AACPA board When asked what was needed to value of a PAC. In the meantime, AACPA 2002, a small group of interested citi- were now extremely frustrated, feeling move forward, Mr. Davis replied, “Money and possibly others are pursuing those zens organized to research and promote that after three years of AACPA work and … The committee (AACPA) has to show very sizable lead gifts from people and the development of a PAC. This group, eight months of work by the city’s task more than just wanting it. In Greenville, organizations that are inundated with just reorganized in 2004 as the Asheville Area force, the council had simple decided to the Peace family came forward and gave such requests. Where would they rather Center for the Performing Arts (AACPA), do nothing. Dr. Haslam, again expressing two large endowments. We need our invest their philanthropic dollars? In a city commissioned feasibility and market- his frustration, “The city council is not Peace family or a group of people (to do where the leadership is seemingly sitting ing studies; made numerous site visits to willing to take the lead or give, even in this.)” there waiting for the money to fall in their comparable cities and facilities; obtained principle, an endorsement. They wouldn’t The current AACPA, under the lead- laps? Or to a city where the leadership has detailed input from various architects, say ‘yes’ and they wouldn’t say ‘no.’ That’s ership of president Joyce Dorr, remains demonstrated a clear appreciation of the acousticians and planners; developed pre- my definition of paralysis.” Dr. Haslam committed to working with the city to value of a PAC and is doing everything in liminary designs and financial plans; and has since resigned from the board. make the PAC a reality. “City councils its power to make that a reality. prepared a final report of recommenda- Sidney Powell, a past president of are not usually the lead on these projects. tions for moving forward. All of this was AACPA who resigned from the board in Eventually, funding may come from a done at no cost to the taxpayers. June of this year, offered a pointed assess- number of sources: private, both indi- For more information, visit www.ashevil- Essentially, the PAC proposal was for ment. “The only stumbling block is city’s vidual and corporate, city, county, state leperformingarts.org or www.ashevillecivic- adaptive reuse of the arena and exhibition abject refusal to move forward. I think and even federal. But, with the PACs center.com and click on “Civic Center Task hall spaces within the existing civic center. our city council just doesn’t get it. I don’t we visited there was typically a lead gift Force.” The first step would be to build a new think they have ever dealt with a project of – from the private sector – that got things arena, after which the vacated space would this magnitude. I don’t think they under- going. And then multiple private gifts be converted into the PAC. stand the total benefit it would provide to come next.”
26 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE HEALTH Tai Chi now on local channel 20 URTV by Michael Clark the Mountaineer, Rapid River Magazine and New eed to soothe away Life Journal. We have VISIT MAGICAL ANCIENT the stress of your given demonstrations MEXICO: day? and free classes to the Interested in Tai community by organizing A Journey of Personal Chi, but can’t seem and supporting the local Transformation in the Modern to fit regular classes celebrations of World World intoN your schedule or budget? Tai Chi Day (www. Curious about this form of Michael WorldTaiChiDay.org), Michael Clark and 5 inter- “meditation in motion” and want Clark Chinese New Year and national teachers lead you on an to know more for free? A new Conscious Movement exciting travel adventure com- television show helps you learn Day. this ancient health exercise right in your A television show aimed bined with a powerful inner jour- living room. at taking these powerful mind- ney. Practice Qigong and similar Instead of watching crisis and body exercises to the people mind-body exercises from Toltec scandal on the six o’clock news, tune in, was the logical next step. and Mayan traditions in the power turn on and slow down with Conscious In each 60-minute Accem Scott and Michael Clark soothe away stress on Movement, a mind-body-spirit exercise program, Conscious Conscious Movement. spots of Mexico’s ancient civili- show (Mon.- Thurs., 6pm. on URTV, Movement shows you simple ways zations: pyramids, monuments, Charter Cable Channel 20 or visit www. to relax, have fun and take care of your from conscious movement events and our caves and beaches. Strengthen urtv.org). body at the same time. The core of the travels to China. The television show grew out of the show is Tai Chi and Qigong (pronounced We are open to including all styles your connection to Nature and work that Accem Scott and I have done “chee gung”), Chinese exercises that of conscious movement, including enhance your personal growth. over the past three years to bring easy, combine gentle movement, meditation, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, dance, NIA, Bilingual English/Spanish. No meditative, soothing movement practices self-massage and relaxed breathing. Tai martial arts, drumming and related to people in the Asheville area. Both of us Chi is a moving meditation that brings arts. If you teach these arts, or know experience necessary. Complete are teachers who have traveled to China balance and inner peace. Research has someone who does, contact Michael@ Tour: 22 days, Feb.17 - March to study the martial and healing arts. shown that it relieves stress, lowers blood HeavenAndEarthTaiChi.com to discuss a 10, 2007, $3,240. Yucatan segment Our mission is to help people to relieve pressure, increases immune function and video shoot. This show does not focus on only: 11 days, Feb 28 – March 10, stress and lead healthier, more balanced improves flexibility. showing what a “master” can do. Instead, lives. We have taught scores of classes The first show begins with Tai Chi your proposal should be for a 5-10 minute 2007, $1,700. Contact: Michael and workshops at Mission Hospitals, Three, a simplified Tai Chi form that segment teaching viewers how to perform Clark (828) 252-6851, Michael@ Cherokee Indian Hospital, YMCAs, anybody can learn that takes only two simple exercises themselves. HeavenAndEarthTaiChi. fitness clubs, schools, churches and parks. minutes to practice. Each month, we If you miss a show or want a We have been interviewed on WLOS-TV will review the forms you have already permanent copy, you may order DVDs of com. Full details at www. Channel 13 news, WCQS 88.1 FM, Big learned, while adding new material to each program at the e-mail above. Give MexicoMagicoAntiguo.com. Wise 1310 AM, The Revolution 880 AM, keep it interesting. From time to time, yourself the gift of conscious movement and featured in the Asheville Citizen- we will add interviews and mini-classes today and learn mindful practices that last Times, Hendersonville Times-News, from other teachers, as well as footage a lifetime. Motivating your diabetic by Max Hammonds, MD miserable. The increase of cholesterol and the control of his disease is the job of his to his nutrition, raise his cholesterol, and triglycerides in obesity plus the effect of physician. increase his insulin resistence. diabetes on the small blood vessels of the Yes, there are good medications 2. He can lose weight. By chang- veryone knows “Ralph.” body lead to a 73% increase in incidence that can make the body more sensitive ing his diet and increasing his exercise, He is 57, has had type 2 of high blood pressure with an accompa- to its own insulin. There are medicines “Ralph” can drop the 80 extra pounds he diabetes for over eight years, is nying 2-4 times increase of heart disease that can lower blood pressure, make the carries which, in many cases, will reverse overweight by 80 pounds, has and stroke. Diabetic small blood vessel platelets of the blood less sticky, decrease the effect that fat cells have on insulin high blood pressure, and loves disease also increases the incidence of cholesterol and triglycerides. Physicians resistance and eliminate the diabetes all to eat. He has never paid much blindness, kidney failure, peripheral nerve are being exhorted by their professional together attentionE to his disease and has never tried damage, dental disease. Diabetes accounts education programs and hounded by their 3. He can work with his physician to very hard to control his diabetes. “Ralph” for 44% of all kidney failure cases and HMO organizations to bring their diabet- track and control his blood glucose levels has begun to develop some chest pain 60% of all non-traumatic lower limb ics under control. And in many cases the which will decrease markedly (over 60%) on walking further than ½ mile and has amputations. Eventually most diabetics physicians have made some good progress the rate of complications he may experience. tingling sensations in his feet. “Ralph” is die of a heart attack – at a rate of about 5 toward that goal. But in the end, type 2 Yes, everyone knows “Ralph.” He about to become another statistic. times the normal population. diabetes is a disease of choice, of lifestyle. may be a precious loved one — or he Everyone knows “Ralph.” There Because there are so many “Ralphs”, “Ralph” can control his own diabetes and may be you. Encourage “Ralph” to care are 21 million “Ralphs” with diabetes in everyone knows “Ralph.” “Ralph” has the disastrous risks that accompany it in for himself. Assist him in making the life the US and the number is increasing by struggled with his weight since his mid- three ways: style choices that can make a such a dif- 1.5 million every year. Why? More than twenties. Now that he is in his fifties, he 1. He can change his diet. The typi- ference in his life. Help him find a physi- half the American adults are overweight has given up trying. He doesn’t know that cal American diet contains 37% empty cian whose treatment regimen includes throughout most of their lives, which it’s possible to control his diabetes and, in calories (without nutritional value) – 19% life style educational assistance as well as leads to insulin resistance, which leads to many cases, to make his diabetes go away hidden fats (added fats in cooking and at medications. type 2 diabetes, which leads to the compli- entirely. He thinks that it’s not worth the table) and 18% hidden sugars (in soft Pray for “Ralph.” The results are infi- cations of diabetes. the effort, being unaware that the same drinks, baked goods and prepared cere- nitely worth it. The disaster of diabetes is that it complications of type 1 (juvenile) diabetes als, and desserts). These extra calories doesn’t kill you immediately; it makes you attacks the type 2 diabetic. He thinks that increase “Ralph’s” weight, add nothing Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 27 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ EVENTs/CLASSIFIED — DECEMBER
To place event / happening with Dec. 9. Raising money Association hosts Art After Dark, Rapid River Art Magazine for Hospice of McDowell it’s popular monthly gallery stroll. County and collecting toys The season continues through Any “free” event open to the public for Project Christmas. For December. Participating galler- can be listed at no charge up to 30 information stop by the gal- ies remain open until 9pm giving lery in downtown Old Fort, downtown diners and strollers the words. For all other events there is a call (828) 668-1070 or visit opportunity to enjoy shopping after $9.95 charge up to 30 words and our website www.taasg.com 5pm. Many galleries will also be 10 cents for each additional word. Call to Artists and hosting artist receptions, provide live music and serve tasty treats.The gal- 160 word limit per event. Handcrafters—Submit your application now and leries of the For further information Deadline is the 19th of each month. pre-qualify to become a please check out the Waynesville Payment must be made prior to TAAS-Gallery member we Gallery Association website at: www. printing. Email Beth Gossett at: will have new spaces avail- waynesvillegalleryassociation.com or [email protected] or mail to: able in Jan. As a member call (828) 456-3517. 85 N. Main St, Canton, NC 28716. you will have access to the Dec. 2-3, 10-5pm—The free Toe Or Call: (828) 646-0071 to place ad on-line inventory manager. River Studio Tour takes place over the phone. Our gallery members say in and around Burnsville, Celo, it’s the best tool they have Spruce Pine, Little Switzerland and HOLIDAY INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE Asheville’s Klezmer Band, Chicken Soup, with master dance teacher, Erik Bendix, presents an evening of ever used. For informa- Bakersville, North Carolina. About folk dancing, Saturday, Dec. 16 at the Jewish Community Center, 236 Charlotte tion stop by the gallery in 125 artists and craftsmen in every St. Doors open at 6:30pm, dance instruction at 7pm. Call (828) 648-4523. downtown Old Fort, call medium will open their studios for Disclaimer: (828) 668-1070 or visit our browsing and buying. An artists Due to the overwhelming number of local website www.taasg.com Get reception will be held Dec. 1, 5- Burns: Intersection. Paige Hamilton Carl Sandburg Home—located three event submissions we get for our “What to your space, get your webpage, 8pm. www.toeriverarts.org or (828) Davis: Passages. 38 Biltmore Ave. in miles south of Hendersonville off Do Guide” each month, we can no longer downtown Asheville. 10-6pm, Mon- the Greenville Highway/Rte. 225 accept entries that do not specifically fol- get to TAAS! 682-7215. low our publication’s format. Non-paid Sat. Call (828) 251-0202 or visit (formerly known as US 25) on Little Dec. 7-9—Haywood Studios of www.bluespiral1.com. River Road in Flat Rock. Guided event listings must be 30 words or less and Haywood Community College will both paid and non-paid listings must pro- ArT Through Dec. 15--Kelly Welch tours of Carl Sandburg Home are hold its 30th Annual Christmas provided throughout the day at a vide information in the following format: TAAS-Gallery Featuring Fine and Linda Cheek will show at The Show and Sale beginning Dec. 7. cost of $5 per person. Children date, time, brief description of what your Art by Denise Geiger, Martha Red Clover Gallery with a recep- event is and any contact information. Any There is no admission to this juried are free. Park Service passports are Raines and Toni Tarte. See tion Nov. 10, 6-9pm. The gallery entries not following this format will not crafts sale which will be held in the accepted and sold. The grounds are this exclusive collections of is located in downtown Landrum, be considered for publication. lower level of the Student Services open to the public from 9-5pm. original water colors, oils Building at HCC. The show will SC at 214 Rutherford St. (864) 457- ANNOUNCEMENTS and pastels that capture the run Dec. 7, 5-8pm with a reception. 3311. www.redclovergallery.com Wolfe’s Angel—Author Thomas superlative of nature the essence Dec. 8,10-8pm. Dec. 9, 10-6pm. Through Dec. 12--Woolworth Walk Wolfe’s first novel was Look Transylvania Community Arts of light and encompass comforting Haywood Studios is a student orga- exhibit “From Dirt to Flowers”. A Homeward, Angel. In the book Council invites local and regional landscapes forms. TAAS-Gallery is nization of Haywood Community reception where the public may there are constant references to an artists to participate in the exhibit home to more than 40 local artisans College, a public institution located meet the artists and ask about their angel statue carved from Italian mar- “A Sense of Place.” This will and crafts people. Well worth the in Clyde, NC. Call (828) 627-4670. work will be held on Nov. 17, 2- ble. This is the angel Wolfe placed in be on view at the Transylvania drive just down the road in Old Fort American literature. Thomas Wolfe’s Dec. 8-Jan. 31—The Red Clover 4pm. Woolworth Walk, 25 Haywood Community Arts Center, Jan. more info: (828) 668-1070 www. father, W.O. Wolfe, sold the statue Gallery presents William Jameson St. (828)254-9234. 16–Feb. 23. A reception for the art- taasg.com. to the Johnson family to mark the and Anne Jameson. Dec. 8 recep- family plot in Oakdale Cemetery. ists will be held Jan. 19. Artists who Dec. 1-2—This holiday season give tion to meet the artists from 6-9pm. The angel is holding a lily in her would like to exhibit their work may your friends and family original ART CLASSES The Red Clover Gallery is located left hand and extending her right deliver work to the Arts Center, and unique gifts hand crafted by in downtown Landrum, SC at 214 Woolworth Walk Art Classes held hand upward. Oakdale Cemetery is Jan. 9, between 10-4pm. Artists may UNC Asheville art students. UNC Rutherford St. (864) 457-3311. at 25 Haywood St. Pre-registration located on Hwy. 64 W., just a short pick up an application at the Arts Asheville’s Art Department will hold www.redclovergallery.com encouraged. Come in or call (828) distance from downtown. The statue Center or call for more informa- its annual Holiday Ceramics and Art 254-9234. is protected by a wrought iron fence, tion. Transylvania Community Sale from 4-7pm Dec. 1, and 10- Dec. 15-Jan. 15—Woolworth Walk and there is a historical marker Arts Center is located at 321 South 2pm Dec. 2, in University Gallery, presents the exhibit “Open Hearts.” Drawing & Painting with Lorelle located on the highway. Caldwell Street, in Brevard. For located on the first floor of Owen A reception where the public may Bacon: Weds. 1-3pm and 3:30- more information (828) 884-2787 or Hall. The sale is open to the public. meet and support these wonderfully 5:30pm Adults, Children, Teens Henderson County Farmers Curb visit www.tcarts.org. creative individuals and view their Beginner through Advanced. Fee: Market—All items sold at the mar- Dec.1—Opening reception for the work on Dec. 17, 2-4pm in the FW $50 (four 2 hour classes). On-going ket must be either hand-made or Sound Garden Gallery, 4 Eagle St., Senior Art Exhibit at 5:30pm. On Front Gallery. Woolworth Walk, 25 (828) 669-7215. locally grown. The sellers are 3rd downtown Asheville seeks artists display in the Spiers Gallery will Haywood St. (828) 254-9234. and 4th generation vendors offer- interested in monthly shows. call be photos, paintings and sculptures Intermediate Jewelry Workshop: ing a variety of goods such as: crafts, Linda at (860) 338-1354. by art major students graduating in Through Dec. 30--Four exhibi- Wed. 1:30-4:30pm. Fee: $289.00 for tions open at Blue Spiral 1. Scott baked goods, jellies, plants, flowers, $250.00 Grand Prize and be featured Dec. The exhibit will run through 8 sessions. Upton & John Nickerson. Engaging toys and product. The market has in the Jan. Rapid River TAAS- Dec. 15. Admission is free Regular abstract paintings from Scott Upton Open Studio: 12 hours: $54; 24 been in operation since 1924. Hours Gallery Ad, $150.00 for Second gallery hours are 8-3pm, Mon.-Fri. and glass objects and sculpture by hours: $108; 36 hours $162. are from 8am-2pm Tue., Thurs. and Place. Enter into the TAAS-Gallery or by appointment by calling (828) John Nickerson. Style + Function: Sat. from Apr.–Dec. The market is Christmas Ornament Competition 884-8211. National Ceramics, Linda Arbuckle, located on the corner of 2nd Ave. & Fundraiser. Final deadline is Dec. 1—Waynesville Gallery Guest Curator Invitational. Brigid Attractions and Church St. For additional infor- 28 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ mation call (828) 692-8012. one of AFR's Fire Marshals. All Charlotte St. Doors open at 6:30pm, Western North Carolina Air of Asheville Fire & Rescue Fire dance instruction at 7pm. Call (828) Museum—is the first air museum Marshal's are uniformed, wear badg- 648-4523. in the state of North Carolina es and can present identification at known as the “first in flight” state. all times. If someone has a question FUN WITH The museum features award win- of the validity of a Fire Marshal's identity, they can contact Asheville LEARNING ning restored and replica antique Colburn Museum and vintage airplanes. The hours Fire & Rescue at (828) 259-5640 are (weather permitting) Mar.-Oct. to verify. Anyone that has, or may Every Wed.—Free admission to the Wed. and Sun, Noon-6pm and Sat. have had, contact with a person museum 3-5 pm. of questionable profession should 10am-6pm. Nov.-Feb. Wed., Sat. Continuing Exhibits: and Sun, Noon-5pm. The museum report this to our investigating is located at the Hendersonville officer Buddy Thompson at (828) The Hall of Gems and Minerals— Airport. For more information 777-8931. For additional questions The Colburn is renowned for its call (828) 698-2482 or go online at regarding this release, please contact permanent collection of gem and www.wncairmuseum.com. Fire Marshal Wayne Hamilton at mineral samples from around the (828) 768-0129. world. Kids can touch and mar- Apple Wedge Packers—visit the vel over the amazing differences facility in Hendersonville for pro- Ongoing—Professional Parenting, the largest community outreach between soft minerals like talc and duction tours and to experience hard ones like quartz while adults the local tradition of apple packing. program sponsored by Appalachian State University, is looking for a few oooh and ahhhhh over priceless cut View the most modern grading and and faceted gemstones. packing equipment including an good foster parents. Professional electronic sorter that photographs Parenting is a non-profit agency The Grove Stone Earth Center— each apple four times to determine who will train and license families Explore our planet with hands on the best color quality. If time per- for children in the NC foster care materials explaining plate tectonics, mits, load a 50-seat wagon for a system. If interested, please call volcanos and the mysteries of the guided trip into an apple orchard (828) 236-2877 for further informa- Earth's core. tion. and sample the homemade apple A Richness of Resources: History of cider. There is an admission charge Ongoing—Volunteer at the Smith- Mining in WNC—This fascinating for tours. For more information call McDowell House. Asheville’s past interactive exhibit leads visitors of (828) 685-8349. needs you now. All ages, back- all ages through the rich history of Southern Appalachian Radio grounds, talents needed to assist WNC's unique mining industry. Set Museum—The Southern with Museum’s public programs off the detonator and discover what and preservation of Historic House a mine looks like inside, then take Appalachian Radio Museum is the nd only radio museum open to the and Garden. Information: Tammy a look at the valuable minerals you For the 32 consecutive year, The Asheville Ballet presents The Nutcracker December 6-10 at Diana Wortham Theatre. Showtimes are public in North Carolina where Walsh (828) 253-9231 or smh@ might find in your own backyard. wnchistory.org. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. you can see and hear radios of long Weather, Climate and You—See Regular tickets are $25-40, students $20-35, and all children $15. For ago plus an amateur radio station. The Waynesville Parks and how you'd look on TV as a weath- information call Ann Dunn, Director at (828) 258-1028. For tickets call Donations appreciated. Located at Recreation Department would like erperson, measure the wind's speed the box office at (828) 257-4530. A-B Technical Community College to help by offering a FREE program and learn more about the destruc- in Asheville, Room 315 of the Elm to you. It's called "Rec Reminder" tive power of hurricanes. Building. Hours 1-3pm on Fridays and it's very simple. The department while school is in session, tours will contact you via email one week Rock and Mineral ID! Ever wonder thehealthadventure.org learning can be with numbers and just what that weird rock you found (828) 298-1847 prior to a deadline for a class, pro- Ongoing--Home-School colors. is? Think you have a meteorite, a gram or special event that it is spon- Happenings offers innovative Jan. 5—Teddy Bear Picnic. Treat diamond or possibly a fossilized soring.your email address will not educational programs to students your bear to a picnic at our place for dinosaur bone? Ask the expert! Phil COMMUNITY be given out to any other individual learning at the kindergarten through a fun day of play! Our little friends Potter, the Colburn Museum's tame or organization. (828) 456.2030 or eighth-grade level. Classes are held can lend a hand while we make Dec. 19, 7pm—Awards Ceremony geologist, will examine and identify email [email protected] . on the second Wednesday of every “Beary cool” ornaments and crafts TAAS-Gallery & Old Fort any rocks and minerals you bring Also, please indicate age for email:12 month at 1:30-2:30pm throughout to take home. Should the little guy Chamber of Commerce are hav- in on Wednesdays between 3-4pm. and under,13-19, 20-49, 50 and up the school year. need a break, bring him over to our ing the Christmas Ornament Best part? It's free with Museum or all of them. tea party table for a “spot of some- Competition and Fundraiser admission! Fabulous Fridays provides young- (COCAF) Awards Ceremony. sters age three to six with unique thing nice” and everyone will go School and Homeschool Programs During a one hour program see programs that encourage and stimu- home happy! DANCE are starting up! Call the Colburn who one the high-stakes contest late development while having fun. Feb. 2—Little Builders. Little hands today to make sure you're on the and join in the fun and Christmas Dec. 6-10—The Asheville Ballet Motor skills, language, vision, social are always busy and there’s no end mailing list for the brochure or to spirit. Listen to our story teller and presents The Nutcracker at Diana skills and creativity are all encour- to what we can build. Our new schedule your field trip to one of a variety of local Christmas carol- Wortham Theatre. Showtimes are aged in these classes. Fabulous traveling exhibit “Little Builders” WNC's most popular and educa- ers. Open to the public admission is 7:30pm Wed.-Sat., and 2:30pm Sat. Fridays are $5 per person for mem- makes building a blast! We can glue tional facilities. free. For more info (828) 668-1070 and Sun. Regular tickets are $25-40, bers; $7 per person for nonmem- and hammer our pieces of wood, or visit www.taasg.com. students $20-35, and all children Seeking Volunteers! The Colburn is bers. Caregivers are admitted free of make paper bowls out of gooey Ongoing Tuesday Night Self- $15. For information call Ann currently accepting volunteer appli- charge. Upcoming classes include: mash and even use paper towel Dunn, Director at (828) 258-1028. cations. Join the fun at Asheville's Healing Support Group, based Dec. 1—Numbers & Hues. tubes for some unconventional For tickets call the box office at hidden treasure; help museum visi- on the work of Dr. Michael Ryce Counting and colors is what we buildings. Join the fun! (828) 257-4530. tors at the front desk and in the gift www.whyagain.com Everyone are all about on this day. We may shop. Call the museum for more Welcome! Love Offering. 6-8pm at Dec. 16—Holiday International know the names of our colors, but info! Mystic Journeys Sacred Space, 333 Folk Dance Asheville's Klezmer what happens when we mix blue HOLIDAY Merrimon Avenue (828) 253-4272 Band, Chicken Soup, with master All classes below are sponsored by and green together? What surprises HAPPENINGS Community Beware—Asheville dance teacher, Erik Bendix, presents The Health Adventure. For info appear when we melt and mix cray- The Health Adventure’s popular Fire & Rescue has received reports an evening of folk dancing at the please call (828) 254-6373, Ext. 329 ons together? Our fingers help Rent-a-Santa program makes holi- of an individual who is posing as Jewish Community Center, 236 to register and prepay or visit www. us figure out just how much fun day gatherings festive while raising Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 29 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™ funds for science and health edu- Belk Theatre for the “Holiday auction, raffle prizes. Free food During his visit to Asheville School, tion of C. Michael Porter, director cation.The museum’s renowned Spectacular! Spectacular!” UNC and non-alcoholic drinks. $5 dona- Bissinger will hold writing work- of choral activities. The reading of Clown Troupe runs a Rent-a-Santa Asheville’s drama students will tion. Proceeds go to nonprofit side shops for students on Dec. 8. (828) the biblical Christmas story will be program, which provides 30-45- transform the outside of the theater projects, Third World Asheville and 254-6345 ext. 4042 or e-mail: wil- given by members of the College minute visits throughout Dec. with into a winter wonderland for the Kids ‘r Indies. For info (828) 505- [email protected] and community. Admission is free. Santa to help hand out gifts and entire family with a unique light and 0476. (828) 884-8211. treats family members, provide sound show. The event is open to Dec. 3, 4pm—UNC Asheville’s mirth during holiday parties, or the public; concessions will be sold MUSEUM Music Department to Perform hand out paychecks to employees. and donations will be accepted. For Asheville Art Annual Holiday Concert in UNC Family get-togethers are $75 and more information, call UNC Museum Asheville’s Lipinsky Auditorium. business gatherings run between Asheville’s Drama Department Every first The concert will feature UNC $100 and $150, depending on the at (828) 251-6610. Asheville student musical groups event. All proceeds benefit The Wednesday of the Dec. 7-9, 15-16, 6-9pm— month from 3–5pm, performing well-known holiday Health Adventure’s exhibits and Illumination Festival, WNC carols. Admission is $5. The event is programs. For more information or Museum is open and Nature Center — 75 Gashes free to the public. open to the public. For more infor- to book a Santa, call (828) 254-6373, Creek Rd. (828) 298-5600. mation, call UNC Asheville’s Music Ext. 326 Seasonal celebration with ani- Ongoing— Department at (828) 251-6432. The Arts Council of Henderson mals, holiday lights and special Exhibitions— Vantage Points: Dec. 5, 7:30pm—Anonymous 4, County is currently distribut- treats. the vocal quartet long acclaimed ing entry forms for their annual Perspectives on Dec. 8-16—Arts Council American Art for its unparalleled performance of Gingerbread House Competition of Henderson County's medieval repertoire, is branching out & Exhibition. Entry forms and $5 1960–1980. Art annual Gingerbread House of the 1960s and with its latest effort Gloryland, sing- entry fee must be received by Dec. Competition, 538 N. Main St, ing beautiful religious ballads, folk 1. Gingerbread houses must be 1970s is examined corner of 6th, in downtown in four different songs, folk hymns, and gospel songs. delivered Dec.7. Email request for Hendersonville. (828) 693-8504 Brevard College's Porter Center for entry form to acofhc@bellsouth. galleries, includ- for information. ing Photography, the Arts. (828) 884-8330 or e-mail net or call (828) 693-8504 for entry [email protected]. form, directions, or more informa- Dec. 9, 1-9pm—Celebrate the Women Artists, tion. season by giving back! Join Sculpture and Pop Dec. 9, 7:30—“Jazz Christmas,” the holiday fun on at the West Art and Geometric a performance featuring Brevard Dec. 2, 10-8:30pm—The merchants Asheville Community Center Imagery.Programs College’s Jazz Ensemble. This con- of Flat Rock will hold an Open on Haywood Rd. Music, face at the Asheville Art cert will feature holiday favorites House for their Annual Village painting, crafts, raffle and Museum: performed with a jazz twist. (828) Holiday Stroll in the historic village, international food! All funds Every First 884-8330. three miles south of Hendersonville support the moving costs of on Highway 225. Wednesday of Dec. 10, 3:30pm—The Reynolds- Cooper Blvd. residents when the Month, from Miller Chorale will present their Dec. 2, Noon-5pm--Historic the land where they live is sold. 3–5pm, Museum annual Christmas concert at St. Johnson Farm will hold its holi- More info at the Emma Family Open Free to the Matthias Church facing South day open house, "Christmas at the Resource Center: (828) 252- The Health Adventure invites guests to enrich their com- Public. Charlotte St. in Asheville. The pro- Farm". Admission is $4 for Adults 4810. munity during a special Family Day Origami Workshop gram will feature Christmas favor- and $3 for children. Historic on December 9: each visitor who brings a can of food for Southern Dec. 15, 7-1am—"Christmas MANNA Food Bank will help minimize hunger in western Appalachian Radio ites, and the 28-voice chorale will Johnson Farm is located at 3346 Community Convergence: A be accompanied by organ and string Haywood Rd., Hendersonville. North Carolina. Canned goods collected throughout the day Museum—The Traveling Bonfires Holiday will be placed under the museum’s Holiday Origami Tree in Southern quartet. Free. The church is located Dec. 2, 8:30pm—Annual lighting Chill-Time." Party-Concert- celebration of the museum’s current traveling exhibit, Flip It, Appalachian Radio in Asheville just off South Charlotte of the Brevard College Christmas Benefit. Featuring music by Fold It, Figure It Out! For more information, visit www.the- Museum is the Street at Max Street on the hill Tree, located in the college’s Peace Jones and Hank Jones healthadventure.org. (828) 254-6373 only radio museum across from the Asheville Public residential quad near Dunham Ghost, with Sage Sansone & the open to the public Works Building (1 Dundee St.). Auditorium. Come join the caroling poetry of Pasckie Pascua, Brian in North Carolina Shuttle parking is available from the and comradeship. (828) 884-8211. Sneeden, and Bonfires friends. LECTURES where you can see and hear radios Public Works parking lot on South Dec. 3, 7-10, 7-9pm—Hitch up that Center of Unlimited Possibilities, of long ago plus an amateur radio Charlotte St. one-horse open sleigh and head Westgate Mall, West Asheville. Dec. 7, 7:30pm—Pulitzer Prize station. Donations appreci- Dec. 17, 3pm—The Blue Ridge over to UNC Asheville’s Carol Audience brings $5 gifts and get the winning author H.G. Bissinger ated. Located at A-B Technical Orchestra will present a concert same from random friends; benefit will speak to Asheville School stu- Community College in Asheville, of traditional Holiday music on at dents and fac- Room 315 of the Elm Building. the Folk Art Center on the Blue ulty in Asheville Hours 1-3pm on Fridays while Ridge Parkway. The orchestra will School’s school is in session, tours (828) 298- be joined by Voices in the Laurel Graham 1847 children's choir. Free. For more Theater. The information visit www.blueridgeor- event is free chestra.org. and open to the Music public, but seat- Dec. 17, 7pm—“The Many Moods ing is limited. Ongoing—Lucianne Evans-stan- of Christmas,” free concert per- Bissinger is the dards solo vocal/piano, Fridays 6:30- formed by First Baptist Church author of the 9:30pm, Bistro 502, 502 N. Main St. of Asheville’s choir and orchestra. highly acclaimed Hendersonville (828) 697-5350. Historic church downtown at inter- Friday Night Dec. 2, 7:30pm—Brevard College’s section of Charlotte St. and I-240. Lights, which Division of Fine Arts will present (828) 252-4781 or www.fbca.net. is now a major its ninth performance of “A Festival motion picture of Nine Lessons and Carols” at the starring Billy Porter Center for Performing Arts. OPERA Bob Thornton The service will include carols, new The Asheville Lyric Opera presents and a television and traditional, sung by Brevard its 2006-2007 calendar: series appear- College’s Chamber Chorale and ing on NBC. Concert Choir under the direc- Feb 9-11, 2007—Franz Lehar’s 30 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE WHAT TO DO GUIDE ™
Merry Widow Calendar: from $5 to $32 (with discounts Walking Tours of Historic mtnmicro.org Apr. 13 & 14, 2007—Giuseppe Show times: All mainstage shows available). For tickets or info call Montford—Fri., Sat. and Sun. at Ongoing—Figure drawing classes at Verdi’s La Traviata run Wed.-Sat. at 7:30pm, Sun. at (828) 693-0731 This year’s schedule 10:30am. Tours vary from historic/ Artemesia Gallery Thursdays from include: architectural to Riverside cemetery. Brand new subscription prices range 2pm. Family Passport is every Sat. 6:30-9pm. Call (828) 259-3636 to 11am-12pm. Sanders Family Christmas, Nov. Reservations required. Cost $20.00/ sign up in advance. Limited to 10 from $90 to $111. For a season bro- person or two for $35.00 with $5.00 chure, call Ticket Services at (828) Ticket prices: Mainstage prices: 15–Dec. 3 students per class. Cost is $10 per in Montford dollars to spend at person. 236-0670. Brand new single tickets first Wed. is Pay-What-You-Can The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Viva Europa, Sweet Heaven, The prices for L’Elisir d’Amore (The Night, other Wed. $15; Thurs. and Dec. 8–17 Montford Art Center or Reader’s Ongoing—Adult Theatre Elixir of Love), Merry Widow, La Sun. $20; Fri. and Sat. $23. Family Corner. Call (828) 777-1014 for Workshops offered at Asheville Traviata go on sale to the public Passport tickets are $5 for all ages. Community Theatre. Beginning on Sept.5, 2006 with prices Acting, Improvisation and Writing & ranging from $35 to $45. Corgi Tales by Phil Hawkins Performing Sketch Comedy Classes. Single tickets will be sold Please contact Jenny Bunn at (828) exclusively through the 254-1320 x3 or jenny@ashevillethe- Diana Wortham Theatre atre.org for more info www.ashevil- box office at (828) 257- letheatre.org. 4530, www.dwtheatre.com Ongoing—Offering study groups, or in person at The Diana meditation, and workshops on japa- Wortham Theatre, 2 South nese gardens, Tai Chi, calligraphy, Pack Square in Asheville. and more. Open to all. Go to www. greattreetemple.org for more infor- QUILTING mation. Through Dec. 16—“Seven Ongoing—Drawing Instruction. Sisters: New Quilts from Learn to draw from classically an Old Favorite 2005” trained professional Asheville art- award winning and finalist’s ist, James Daniel. Inexpensive and quilts from the Museum of the more information. open to all. Call the studio at (828) Dec. 6-17, 2006—It’s A Wonderful 232-2232. American Quilter’s Society’s inter- Life: A Live Radio Play Tours national competition. Includes Historic Johnson Farm—This is an quilts from Japan, Germany, and Feb. 21-Mar. 11, 2007—All in the WNC HAPPENINGS Timing intriguing, personalized viewing of 15 states, including one by NC’s the historic buildings and museum, Through-Dec. 16—Bring your own Scott Murkin. Free and open Apr. 11-29, 2007—A Midsummer and a visit with the horses. For costs, family and Visit TAAS-Gallery in ATTENTION to the public. Arts Council of Night's Dream tour times and other info call (828) Downtown Old Fort. Make your Henderson County gallery, 538 N. May 9-20, 2007—Chesapeake 891-6585 or go online www.his- opinion count with your Vote ARTISTS: Main St., at the corner of 6th Ave., toricjohnsonfarm.org. for your favorite Christmas Tree 2nd floor. Call (828) 693-8504 for Jan.10-21, 2007—Bill and Ornament. Votes are just a buck FULLY more information. This exhibition Neela Muñoz—SHOW TO BE Trolley Tours—take a trip around benefiting Hospice of McDowell was organized by the Museum of ANNOUNCED Asheville’s finest treasures aboard a County. Admission is Free Hours EQUIPPED the American Quilter’s Society, Jan.24-Feb. 4, 2007—The vintage touring trolley and enjoy the Tues.-Fri. 10-5pm, Sat. 10-8pm For Paducah, Kentucky. Redundant Theatre Company 70-minute tour covering Asheville’s more info Call (828) 668-1070 or GLASS ART Theatre—Valentine’s show 2007 major points of interest. For more visit www.taasg.com information on trolley schedules and STUDIO TheaTRE Mar. 21-Apr. 1, 2007—imme- ticket prices call (888) 667-3600 or diate theatre project—TO BE go online to ashevilletrolleytours. Workshops/ AVAILABLE Dec. 10, 2pm—Asheville Playback ANNOUNCED Theatre joins the World Wide com. Classes Network of Playback Theatre com- June 21-June 30, 2007—A Telling Asheville Urban Trail—trace the Tues. Evenings 5:30-7:30pm— panies for the 2nd Annual Global Experience—The Epic of Gilgamesh footsteps of Asheville’s historic past. Pinwilz™Bead & Jewelry Supply A beautifully Playback Event—sharing stories of Transylvania Arts Council announc- There are six different trails you can owner, Beverly Heldman teaches equipped studio for human rights: Listening! Speaking es its 2005-2006 Performing Arts take: The Gilded Age (.6 miles), The jewelry making classes: Basic Out! and Taking Action! at the Series: Sharing Stories, Near and Frontier Period (.2 miles), Times Beading, Hemp knots and weaving the professional glass Unitarian Universalist Church, 1 Far. The series will include five eve- of Thomas Wolfe (.4 miles), Era of and an advanced beading class. Pre- Edwin Place (corner of Charlotte ning performances in the intimate Civic Pride (.3 miles), The Age of register early for one of the limited artist is available St.). This is a Fundraiser for the surroundings of the Transylvania Diversity (.2 miles) and if you want seats. Classes start @ $35.00. For to the right indi- International Center for Playback Community Arts Center Gallery, to walk the total trail (1.7 miles). more information call (828) 668- Theatre. (828) 665-4774. eleven school programs, and five For more information call (828) 1070 or visit www.pinwilz.com vidual. Studio and 258-0710. Dec. 14-16, 8pm—Asheville community-based workshops Ongoing--mbody ~ mind-body Community Theatre proudly presented by the visiting perform- Asheville Ghost Tour—a leisurely fitness studio. Step into a free week gallery located in announces the fifth remount ing artists. Individual performance walking tour taking approximately of classes. 1200 Hendersonville Rd. the heart of down- of their sold out smash hit The tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for 90 minutes and covering less than a (828) 277-7500. www.mbody.net for Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris. students. Series tickets, including all mile. Stroll the shadowy streets of schedule. town Asheville. For Performances: Thurs.-Sat. nights five performances, are $50 for adults downtown Asheville listening to sto- with an additional late-night per- and $25 for students. Unless other- ries of the unexplained and strange. Dec. 14, 6-9pm--Performance details, call formance Sat. night at 10pm on the wise noted, workshop fees are $5 per See pictures, taken by the owner of Workshop with Peggy Baldwin and (828) 225-6625, or Mainstage at Asheville Community person. To purchase performance the tour, of ghost spirits and pol- John Loyd at the Asheville Area Arts Theatre in downtown Asheville. tickets or to register for an artist’s tergeist orbs! Be sure to bring your Council, 11 Biltmore Ave. Looking visit in person at 57 Admission: $10. 35 East Walnut workshop, call TransylvaniaArts own camera to catch images of ener- for more direction on where your Street, Downtown Asheville (828) Council at (828) 884-2787 or gy orbs and possibly a ghost. Tours performing career may take you or Haywood St. 254-1320. visit the Arts Center at 321 South begin at 9pm nightly and depart just need some input on marketing Caldwell Street, in Brevard, NC. All your performance, then come to this North Carolina Stage Company from the Haywood Park Hotel. For performances begin at 7pm. more information and to make res- seminar. For more info call AAAC Presents 2006-2007 Performance (828) 258-0710 or email sharon@ Flat Rock Playhouse. Tickets range ervations call (828) 337-0645. Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 31 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE DECEMBER MOVIES Weekdays 6-9am With Mike Stewart Mike Stewart STICKS and STONES
∑∑∑∑∑-Fantastic ∑∑∑∑-Pretty darn good ∑∑∑-Has some good points Movies do not get better then this. Bond 21 is by far the best Bond since Licence to ∑∑-The previews lied Kill. Craig is the grittiest and most fun Bond yet. If you haven't seen this film, don't ∑-Only if you must performance, this tough, rough, strong, wait to see it on DVD. See it now. M man’s man leading actor doesn’t quite -Forget entirely make it in the type of film usually reserved for Hugh Grant. range…and as the title would suggest, it 'Casino Royale' might convey an important message or Finally, the absolute magic in mak- Director: Martin Campbell two about middle-east conflicts, culture Starring Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Judi ing an excellent wine starts with the grape and alike. Oh no, my friend, we get none 'A Good Year' grower. Knowing the exact moment to of that here! Dench Director: Ridley Scott harvest the grapes is the true secret, too Babel has us traveling to Morocco, Rated PG-13 for intense sequences Starring: Russell Crowe, Albert early, and the wine will be thin, too late, Mexico and Japan for these three differ- of violent action, a scene of torture, Finney and the taste can be overpowering. ent stories. If this was a James Bond flick, sexual content and brief nudity. Rated PG-13 for language and some Don’t take it too much to heart that all the exotic locations would meet the ∑∑∑∑∑ sexual content. this “vintage” went bust, it was Scott’s first requirements of moving the main story- As you read this film review; know ∑∑ attempt at corking this bottle. The result, line. In Babel we go to these places to sim- that it is a “deconstruct” of its topic Casino A son of Zeus, according to Greek too much air got in and the wine over-oxi- ply witness what the director has decided Royale. mythology, invented wine. There are dized. Better luck next season! is on today’s menu, and take it from me, In that same vein, the producers have many important elements that go into the — Reviewed by Mike Stewart the platter is unfulfilling! One storyline decided to reinvent, rebirth and rein- making of wine. First, making a fine wine is about an American tourist (Blanchett) vigorate the film’s main character, James requires the process of fermentation. Well, shot while vacationing in the dessert with Bond, bringing him back to the basics continuing in “wine-speak”, we have two her husband (Pitt) as a last ditch effort to from which he was born. robust “grapes”, Ridley Scott and Russell 'Babel' save their marriage after the death of one After seeing the excellent action/ Crowe and those boys should be ripe Director Alejandro Gonzalez-Inarrito of their children. The second storyline thriller Mission Impossible III, I kept ask- enough to know what is expected of them. Starring: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett depicts the couple from the first storyline’s ing myself, “How is this next Bond flick going top it?” That’s where my bias crept Second, wine to be great, has to have high Rated R for violence, some graphic Mexican immigrant nanny dragging their sugar content. A Good Year does con- children off to her son’s crazy wedding in and I decided, in advance, Mr. Super- nudity, sexual content, language and Spy should take a few hints from Ethan tain two stunning female leads: Marion some drug use party when she couldn’t reach the chil- Cotillard and Abbie Cornish. Third, the dren’s parents in Morocco to tell them she Hunt! Then, like a lightning bolt, I got it! ∑∑ Casino Royale wasn’t going to be about winemaker asks himself, is the wine to be Ba'bel [bey-buh or bab-uh l] 1. needed to go to Mexico. The third story- dry and light or full bodied and robust? line has us hopscotching over to Japan to CGI effects. Refreshingly, Casino Royale an ancient city in the land of Shinar in successfully builds some honesty back into For the answers to these questions affects which the building of a tower (Tower watch an oversexed 16-year old girl hustle how the wine progresses in the overall the streets wanting to pick a partner to do a unique character originated by Sir Ian of Babel) intended to reach heaven was Fleming, gives the audience a taste of what fermentation process. Ah, the choices! begun and the confusion of the language the “wild thing”! The film, A Good Year, is neither a full- Although the plot is confusing to fol- the author had in mind when he wrote of the people took place. Gen. 11:4–9. Casino Royal, his first book, and deliv- bodied, robust table wine nor a pleasing 2. (usually lowercase ) a confused low, the film is shot beautifully. I suppose dessert wine to savor after an exhilarating we’re to look upon this effort like the ers a reality check on the first gritty Bond mixture of sounds or voices. movies starring Sean Connery, before fan- event. Therefore, this film falls into the The film title Babel is so deceiving… Beatles tune, “A Day In The Life” but I category of Aperitif…. light and pleasing, prefer the storytelling in their song to this tasy totally took over and placed Bond in rename it “Blah, Blah, Blah.” This film outer space (Moonraker) or the world of but bland; on the sweet side, with the deserves no less than three blah’s because movie! promise of more robust and adventure- In a way, through Babel, the movie, invisible cars (Die Another Day). Sir Ian Babel has three different stories and each Fleming, himself, was a bit of a royal card some tastes to follow. Unfortunately, will give you the blah’s! you do get a true literate interpretation of while everyone was in the parlor some- the term “babel” as it means, “a confused player, royal ladies man and a Commander When I first saw the preview for the in Her Majesty’s Royal Navy. Not so body walked off with the good cellar film, I was troubled. I couldn’t really con- mixture of sounds or voices or a scene of stock. noise and confusion.” In that sense, the surprising then, that his first novel frames nect the plot threads, but with a picture these things allowing Commander Bond We’ve been robbed, and the good vin- with a title like Babel, I honestly thought title gives you your money’s worth! They tage went to Under the Tuscan Sun and should play this as a double feature with to step up in rank to the status of new it was the people who produced these double-0-agent. Audiences will delight in Sideways! A Good Year tries to be some- trailers who were blurring the lines a bit, Lost In Translation. Both movies should where between these two films, but for keep you, to quote another title, Dazed & the return of the roughneck rogue who as an artistic exercise of enhancement for will eventually acquire traits of a better director Ridley Scott, who makes mostly the finished product, wrong! Confused for months! heavy dramas and action flicks, his pal- — Reviewed by Mike Stewart than best dressed man, with lethal skills Even seeing Babel, does not clear up and style. ate is not refined enough for this kind of anything, it is three stories of differing romance-comedy. As for Russell Crowe’s The producers of Casino Royale have
32 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE FILM REVIEWS perfectly deconstructed the the Wallace and Gromit movie, Curse of days on film), who eventually refers Crick Bond character in the form of the Were-Rabbit. So, if you’re expecting to a literature specialist, Jules Hilbert, Daniel Craig; the look, the wit the quality of Curse of the Were-Rabbit played eloquently and hilariously by and most important, living by in this flicker, you won’t be getting it. Dustin Hoffman, who has been in need of his wits! Yes, Craig’s Bond came Kids will love it, it’s animated and it a really good role lately and finally found ever so close to Connery’s ver- takes place in a sewer, what’s not to like? it. Meanwhile, Crick audits a hippiesque sion of Bond, but with today’s Adults won’t want to run away screaming pastry maker named Anna Pascal (Maggie attitude, not the attitude of from boredom, but they will probably be Gyllenhaal) who he falls in love with and the 60’s. Think about it, Sean looking at their watches about midway who falls in love with him…much to both Connery’s films were fantastic through the movie. There are humorous of their amazement. fantasy, but never so over the moments, but, for kids’ sake the plot is The plot continues to thicken as top to lack plausibility. In Dr. simple…the importance of family and Hilbert and Crick, in a series of discus- No, Bond was all style and friends. sions, try to determine if the novel Crick menace and living by his wits. — Reviewed by Beth Gossett is “in” is a comedy or tragedy. Once the From Russia With Love deliv- Finally a Will Farrell movie for people who don't think X-box mysterious “voice” mentions Crick’s emi- ered the same pizzazz with the and ATVs are the best things in life. This film is definitely a nent demise, we’re definitely on the track addition of a gadget suitcase. In 'coming of age' moment for Farrell and yes, we are impressed. of a tragedy. By chance, Crick discovers Goldfinger, Bond got the souped 'Stranger Than Fiction' the owner of the voice narrating his life is, up car, the famous Aston Martin, Starring: Will Farrell, Maggie in fact, no other than famed tragedy novel but the rest of the movie was Bond hold- covered clutches of the film’s nemesis, Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hoffman, Emma writer Kay Eiffel (Emma Thompson). ing his own. Craig, in Casino Royale, pro- The Toad (Ian McKellen). Adventures Thompson, Queen Latifah Crick makes attempts to find her, and vides the same kind of grit and this Bond’s abound as Rita and Roddy get closer and Rated PG-13 finally does, only to discover through con- own “man-man’s” action comes into play. closer to getting out of the sewer, but in ∑∑∑∑∑ versations with the writer and her assistant Edgy, cocky, vulnerable, and yet the only the process, they discover a devious plot This movie was a breath of fresh guy in the room with guts to actually get that has been put into motion by The air. Surprisingly, pleasantly, I might add, ‘Movies’ continued next pg. the job done. Toad and now they are running from Will Farrell does an excellent job shed- Generations, while enduring, even him, his cousin Le Frog (Jean Reno) and ding his skin as the eternal goofball by Catch the "Talk of the Town" film agonizing for 40-plus years, over varying Le Frog’s hilarious team of henchfrogs playing Harold Crick, the main character chatting with Mike Stewart and cinematic Bond portrayals and plot lines, (which includes the tickle-your-funny- in Stranger Than Fiction, with earnest Beth Gossett each Wed. 7:30 am on still have a great affection for the essence bone Marcel, who is a Marcel Marceau- humility, emotion and grace. 570AM WWNC for the latest in film of the Bond character and have longed for type critter). Once Rita gets Roddy safely Crick is a hum-drum IRS agent who and DVDs. Don't miss a minute. the day the producers would return to the home, he realizes just how much Rita… spends his days compulsively count- subject’s roots. and the rest of the sewer gang meant to ing, everything from how many times Craig is deeply rooted and proves him. He makes a deal with Sid to take his he brushes his teeth to doing large math NEXT MONTH: place as his family’s pet and then he re- himself a classy, unflappable Bond with sums in his head. He’s a seriously bor- In January we’ll be reporting on: the right mix of charm and menace flushes himself away, back to the sewer ing guy…until he wakes up one day with and back to his new life…just in time to whether he’s shaken or stirred! A decon- something new happening in his life… The Holiday, Unaccompanied Minors structed Bond is a delight. save the day! someone, an unknown Englishwoman, is Now, was it worthy to see? Yes and no. Apocalypto, The Good German, — Reviewed by Mike Stewart narrating, with pristine accuracy, his every Blood Diamond CGI has replaced the Aardman crew’s move…as if his life is now some kind of unique niche of claymation animation for novel. Unsettled by this, he seeks out help For theaters and showtimes go to Flushed Away. In case you’re wonder- from a psychoanalyst, the ever-charming 'Flushed Away' ing, this is the same crew who brought us www.rapidrivermagazine.com Starring voices of: Hugh Jackman, Linda Hunt (who anyone rarely sees these Kate Winslet, Jean Reno, Ian McKellen TEEN CORNER Rated PG ∑∑ Here’s the quick and dirty plot sum- 'Santa Clause 3: The brings the in-laws, along with mary: Roddy St. James (Hugh Jackman), his ex-wife’s family, a pampered-to-the-max pet mouse, is Escape Clause' to the North Pole. left home alone when his family goes on Starring: Tim Allen, Martin Then the trouble holiday. He thinks he’s got it made…that Short, Elizabeth Mitchell begins. is until a street-wise sewer rat named Rated G for General Besides the early Sid moves into Roddy’s swanky digs Audiences release date (it opened and makes a nightmare of things. As a ∑∑ in November, for last resort, Roddy tries to entreat Sid to Ho, ho, hold on… Yet anoth- goodness sake!), Santa take a “Jacuzzi”…in the toilet. Sid, being er Santa Clause movie? Clause 3 suffers from the ever clever rat that he is, pitches Santa Clause 3: The Escape trying to appeal to Roddy into the potty and…flushes him Clause begins where the too wide of an audi- away…into the bowels of the sewer. The first two films left off. Scott ence. Mixing child- first creatures Roddy meets in his new Calvin (Tim Allen) who ish humor, such as environment far below the London streets resisted turning into Santa Film fan and movie reindeer flatulence, are the slugs…who really are entertaining in the first film, has now not critic Sierra Bicking with adult themes, (more so than most of the movie and its only accepted his fate, but is lives in Asheville like relationship issues characters) and adorable to boot. Roddy actually enjoying his job as between Santa and If a movie stars Tim Allen and Martin Short is there any doubt seeks help from anyone he thinks can help Santa and his new marriage to Mrs. Clause, the film manages that it will be very bad? him get back to his beloved home above a pregnant Mrs. Clause. Unfortunately, to not entirely satisfy anyone. ground…which is how he meets Rita the envious Jack Frost (Martin Short) Even so, it does send a good awaken your holiday spirit. (Kate Winslet). She’s a scrappy gal who wants Santa’s job and will do anything to message to a diverse audience about the is the captain of her own boat and agrees get it. Meanwhile, Mrs. Clause (Elizabeth importance of family and being honest, — Reviewed by Sierra Bicking to help Roddy get home after he helps Mitchell) is lonely and wants some taller and has some great costumes and makeup. her escape, with pizzazz, from the wart- people (i.e. not elves) to talk to. So Santa If for no other reason, see the movie to
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 33 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE MOVIES&MORE ‘Movies’ continued
(Queen Latifah) that the woman has been us, would have never ing the “human spark” that was Lennon hopelessly blocked in her writing attempts allowed the band’s but weights itself down with too much for ages and this is the first break she’s rehearsals or their intri- of the same ol’, same ol’ Vietnam history had in months. cate ways of shaping a lesson. The film lacks soul (“Rubber” or Hilbert tells him, after reading song’s style in the stu- otherwise). I would have liked to like this Eiffel’s new novel about Crick, Death and dio by trying different movie. Taxes, this novel is her masterpiece and arrangements on the Maybe I can say, for the younger gen- shouldn’t be tampered with. way to completion, to erations that don’t seem to have a clue, on So, what’s a guy to do? Does Crick be released on album the plus side, this movie does convey how stop Kay from writing him out of his life and labeled “rarities” (as the government will go out of its way to and killing him off…just when things are has happened). Lennon suppress thought, ideas and opinions to getting good…or does he resign himself would say it’s crap! control the masses. Don’t think this type to his fate and slip off into oblivion as one He’d say “it’s a damn of censure happened only “back in the of the most tragic characters in American John Lennon film lacks origniality and feels like a mix-up of what was rehearsal” and nothing day” when Richard Nixon devised his Literature? You’ll get all the answers left on the cutting room floor. Wait. It is. more! “enemies list.” and more when you see Stranger Than since then has tried to recreate some of I’m sad to report to The government still supports the Fiction. the magic of that pop art lifestyle as their the directors of The US vs. John Lennon repression of the public for its own inter- — Reviewed by Beth Gossett own and each time it has not only paled that the film feels like the rehearsal! The ests. For instance, country radio stations in comparison, but has been a pathetic principles to bring something new to the banned the Dixie Chicks for speaking endeavor to embrace what once was. Such table have obviously been long forgotten their minds. That was a blow for free an attempt is the film entitled, The US vs. by Leaf and Scheinfeld. The first hour of speech, but it didn’t bother supporters 'The US vs John Lennon' John Lennon. the film simply rehashes the all too famil- of the current administration. Further, Producers/Directors: David Leaf & Directors David Leaf and John iar film clips of Lennon and other mem- didn’t the US use illegal wiretaps under John Scheinfeld Scheinfeld strive to pay homage, in music bers of youthful dissention of American the guise of “for our own protection” or Documentary and cinematic forms, to John Lennon, but political policies set to music. This type of “going to war on bad information”? montage isn’t anything we haven’t already Lennon sang a song, “Strange Days Rated PG-13 for some strong lan- they overlook a major first in the creation of art: To be fresh and to bring some- seen on MTV newsreels with Kurt Indeed,” maybe the 60’s aren’t dead after all. guage, violent images and drug refer- thing new to the table. Loder or in hour long biographies on the — Reviewed by Mike Stewart ences John Lennon was many things: a History Channel a thousand times before. ∑∑ political activist, an acerbic wit, humorist, Maybe, it’s that way because the film was It’s sad today that there are so many musician, and, indeed, an artist. As such, produced by VH-1. We are talking about 60’s wannabes. The 1960’s generation Wondering if you should spend Lennon challenged himself and his other the most revolutionary band and the your money on a recent theatrical had the best of pop culture originals and members of the fab four to go the next founding father of modern pop-culture! historic firsts! The first moon landing, the released movie that’s now on DVD? level, to create something fresh to achieve Heavens, there are already many worthy Check out past movie reviews on the first national anti-war protest, the Peace the next artistic task! For proof of this, look documentaries on this subject Imagine- Corps, the Camelot presidency, the origi- Rapid River Magazine website: at the series of Beatles albums, each evolved — John Lennon (1988) being one of the www.rapidrivermagazine.com. nal Bond, James Bond and The Beatles! into a new musical style of invention. finest. The directors of The US vs. John All in all, not bad! Every generation Lennon, if he we’re still among Lennon only succeed with clips show- LOCALVOCAL Aaron Price follows his own lead with CD 'Bouquet' by James Cassara
The Local Vocal by James Cassara recorded projects at his own Collapseable tor on numerous projects, including The is “Justice In A Cradle,” written by local Editor’s note: This semi regular feature Studios, Price’s contributions are as ubiq- Who’s Tommy in 2004. As a performer musician Malcolm Holcombe. Price’s furthers Rapid River’s commitment to uitous as they are multifaceted. Known Price has toured internationally with caba- subtle reworking of a song written for gui- exploring and promoting the local as a performer, producer, ret singer Vendetta Creme, tap-dancer Ira tar is a thing of quiet beauty; on an album scene with a critical and discern- multi-instrumentalist for- Bernstein as well as on his own. replete with shimmering melodies and ing ear. Area bands and perform- hire, and composer of the- Adding to that already impressive tuneful expression it stands out. ers are encouraged to email me at ater scores, few musicians body of work Price has recently released It’s but one more addition to the [email protected] if you’d like me can lay claim to a more Bouquet an album of piano instrumentals Price catalog, but one of which the artist to consider giving you a mention. diverse resume. that demonstrates both his deft play- should be exceptionally proud. Bouquet is It would be my pleasure to do so! Price has produced ing and exquisite taste. Whether sensi- a truly lovely work, the ideal complement and collaborated on over tively interpreting such standards as the to a tranquil afternoon. It is romantic in 30 albums released by local Gershwin brothers “Love Is Hear To the truest sense of the word and an effort and regional acts; includ- Stay” or The Beatles “Long And Winding deserving of both our admiration and sup- ing Scrappy Hamilton, Road,” Price captures the essence of the port. s one of Asheville’s most Vendetta Creme, Acoustic song while imprinting upon the melody recognized and respected Syndicate, Country his own temperament. The album’s 14 musicians, Aaron Price Blues legend Jessie Mae songs, four of which are Price’s own com- Please note: Bouquet is available at has long been a fixture in Hemphill, and Asheville’s positions, are as lovely as they are engag- Karmasonics Music downtown and this area’s musical com- Aaron Price own Strut, Drug Money ing. The intent here is clearly to caress Harvest Records in West Asheville. It can A munity. and Hollywood Red. the listener with a cascade of gorgeous also be found via his web site at Whether energetically accompanying He has composed musical scores for playing, putting tone and melody ahead of www.aaronprice.net the downtown silent film series or skill- theater productions by two local theater showmanship. fully augmenting any number of locally companies and served as musical direc- The album’s most intriguing moment
34 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE GALLERYUPDATES The Vanishing Landscape show a success by Beth Gossett for local Kim Porter of SAFC worked closely Gallery opened for an event that brought art col- with Foss and Peggy Taylor (head of the close to 100 supporters. The refreshments e have all been wit- lectors, WNC plein-air painters group) to pull were plentiful with donated food from ness to the tremen- framing the event together. The Western North the Lobster Trap Restaurant, Starbucks dous growth of our custom- Carolina Plein-Air Painters Group was Coffee, Harris Teeter and Earth Fare. dear city and sur- ers and asked to be the featured artists during Wine from D&H local distributors rounding landscape interior the month of November where sales of flowed as acoustic guitar music played by of Asheville. design- their work went to help this organization Patton Cardwell wove in and out of the WThis has happened over a ers since (SAFC). hum of conversation swelling and ebbing very short period of time. The 1978. Plein-air painting is the tradition as the excitement of the crowd gathered. mountain sides have seemed to Hilliard of bringing the canvas and paints out of After the guests had a chance to view the develop a contagious growth of felt it doors and painting the landscape as the range of landscape paintings the auction houses. Gated communities have was artist sees it in natural light. Some of the began. sprung up practically overnight time to top landscape painters of NC are members Taylor Barnhill, executive director of in the most surprising of cliff- put his of this group and were thrilled to take South Wings, volunteered as the evening’s side places usually saved for the A painting unframed being auctioned at the business part. Powerful paintings by Linda Cheek, auctioneer. South Wings is an Asheville Peregrine Falcon. Some dwell- Frame Shoppe and Gallery in November. on the Jim Southerland, Richard Oversmith, organization that flies influential people, ings are actually built on stilts as map as Colleen Webster, Stuart Roper, Kelly media personnel, developers and policy the terrain is so steep. being more than just a frame shop. He has Welch and Peggy Taylor were all juried makers over our mountains to give them The Southern Appalachian Forest recently brought in Heidi Foss, art consul- into the show. a bird’s eye view. This helps educate and Coalition has heard the protests and seen tant and artist rep, to transform his space Plein–air painting itself is becom- increase public awareness on improved the strong development of the mountains into a fine art gallery, complete with local ing a lost art as so many public wildlands land management and watershed issues. and forests in our region and have set up and international artists. These artists want are being sold off to private owners. No The auction brought in $4,000 for the offices in Asheville to help our community to ensure that our landscapes are preserved trespassing signs are springing up where Forest Coalition. and the land that surrounds us. and developed responsibly. once the artist could bring out his canvas Recently, the Frame Shoppe & Artists are moving to Asheville in sur- and paint to his hearts content surrounded Gallery located in the Harris Teeter prising numbers. They are drawn here by by his inspiration. The beauty for all to To learn more and or to make a contribu- Shopping Plaza on Hendersonville Rd. the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains behold is slowly becoming a privilege that tion to SAFC visit www.safc.org or call decided to pitch in and support the cause. and the diversity of our residents. When only some can afford. It is our artists who (828) 252-9223. Todd Hilliard, owner of the Frame word went out that the Frame Shoppe & create and document the history of our Shoppe & Gallery, had never before had Gallery was putting together a benefit to land as the Hudson River artists painted For more information about the Vanishing an art opening, not to mention a full support and raise money for the Southern years ago a landscape that will never again Landscape exhibit contact the Frame blown benefit and live art auction. Appalachian Forest Coalition, the amount look the same. Shoppe & Gallery at (828) 274-3635 or His business has been creating frames of support was tremendous. On Nov. 3, the Frame Shoppe & visit www.frameshoppeandgallery.com FEATUREARTICLE Diamonds bring cash but sometimes sorrow for developing nations ‘Diamonds’ continued from pg. 21 their customers can the Dutch family of Meents. Jewels That some may be ambivalent about DeBeers, own choices, be assured that every Dance buys its South African diamonds she discovered from her travels abroad and South Africa diamond sold comes from FestDiam. from firsthand observation in South Africa and Botswana from a reliable and Dawkins and Clevenger are proud the company is nothing short of honest decided to ethical source. of this chain of support and giving, and professional. partner with Having now which extends between the United States It does not exploit the African people, DeBeers, a pri- returned from their and South Africa, and more specifi- far from it. Instead, in Africa DeBeers is vate company. diamond trek of dis- cally between Jewels That Dance and the known for the good it does. It trains both Over the years covery, Dawkins and Refilwe Community, located outside of black and white; many stay employed this partner- Clevenger’s profes- Johannesburg, South Africa, that houses a lifetime as miners, diamond sorters, ship has served The Finsch Diamond Mine is safety minded and envi- sional curiosity has and helps orphaned children and HIV/ diamond cutters and diamond polishers. the countries, ronmental conscious of the work it does. It removes now been satisfied AIDs victims. DeBeers has also established philanthropic its people, and all the wildlife and vegetation first, and transfers it to and, unexpectedly, a There is not a single blood diamond enterprises in Africa to help the less for- private enter- a place that has none. Later, the mine will be complet- new and deep con- sold at her store. It’s just the opposite. tunate. prise well. ed refilled. Furthermore, only water is used to extract nection to a place half Each diamond that Dawkins and her Said Dawkins: “People in South diamonds from the host rock, known as kimberlite. a world away contin- staff sell might well be “life diamonds,” Africa earn professional wages. Botswana THE TRUTH Only a small amount of grease is involved in the pro- cess to which the diamond itself adheres. ues to grow within for they profoundly help many working has the highest per capita income in ABOUT them and their staff. citizens of South Africa achieve and main- Africa. Those who work in the diamond DEBEERS tain a good life, day after day, year after industry have health and education bene- “People have heard not such flattering IT GETS EVEN BETTER year. fits. They have pensions.Their children go things about DeBeers, but it was just the “It gets even better,” said Dawkins. “We know where our diamonds come to college. They are clearly middle class.” opposite,” said Jewels That Dance store “A portion of our profits of every South from,” said Marlene Clevenger. DeBeers was the first in the diamond manager Marlene Clevenger. “They are African diamond that we sell goes back It’s proof positive right here in the business, and remains the largest com- doing so much for the economy of South to Global Giving, which goes to a foun- heart of downtown Asheville that much pany within the diamond industry with its Africa.” She also explained that DeBeers dation that directly helps the people.” good can come in small packages, even if many mines, sorting houses, sophisticated came up with a sophisticated tracking The foundation was set up by FestDiam they’re from a world away. tracking systems and marketing expertise. system for diamonds called The Kimberly Cutting Works, which was founded a Being democracies and free to make their Process, so that American jewelers and hundred years ago and is still operated by Copyright 2006 Mediabear Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 35 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE
DECEMBER 2006
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
Dec.6 & 13 Sustainable Living Resource for WNC • Vol. 1, No. 7 “Sheep to Shawl” Woolmaking Program WNC Nature Center What can I do with solar power in my home? 11am-12Noon or 2-3pm by Jim Beacon (828) 298-5600 www.wildwnc.org Dec. 8 LEED Workshop e’ve been haunted by put the equipment back on the regular 8:30am-5:30pm the promise of electricity house current. And no, you don’t neces- US Green Building Council generated from the Sun sarily have to mount the solar panels on Jane S. McKimmon Center for over 30 years now, your roof -- this is often done to get the 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh but for most this has most sunlight to the panels and keep them Registration: www.usgbc.org resulted in little more than a few solar- out of harm’s way. But this smaller panel For details, contact: Laura Walsh W powered patio lights scattered around array is only 5 high by 8 feet wide... a little (202) 742-3755; [email protected] the yard. Anyone who checked has bigger than one piece of plywood. So you Dec. 12 been informed that to power a whole may find there’s a spot on the ground in “Gardening in the Mountains: house with solar will cost them $20,000 your yard, which will provide them with Gifts for the Gardener” -- $30,000 or more. But recent price the 5 to 8 hours a day of direct sunlight 10am Program at NC Arboretum drops in solar panels and improvements they need to do their job. If you’ve got in cooperation with Buncombe in battery technology -- along with kids, you would want to put up a light County Cooperative Extension and increasing availability of components wire fence around a ground array to keep regional Master Gardeners at the retail level -- have created an it from being played with or struck by fly- (828) 665-2492 intriguing and affordable revival of the ing objects, which can render it useless. www.ncarboretum.org dream. But even if the panels do end up on your Dec. 15 It is now possible for the average home to 200 to 300 watts of power an hour. roof, the small 5’x8’ footprint is much “Creative Hands for Public Lands” produce a practical and useable amount of Obviously, individual homes vary on the more manageable than the larger arrays 2nd Annual Fundraiser solar-generated electricity for an invest- amount and type of entertainment equip- we’ve seen sticking up on houses in the 5:30 – 7:30pm ment of $3,000 - $4,000. The idea is to ment they use, and naturally a really big past. Co-sponsored by BlackBird install a relatively small array of new, screen TV will draw a bit more than a Frame & Art and SABP (Southern more powerful solar panels, plus a small 21-inch TV, but most stereos and DVD Next issue I’ll talk about the specifics for Appalachian Biodiversity Project) bank of batteries to store the energy, and players only draw 30 or 40 watts each, so this system, including product numbers, Happy Hour Gala includes raffle drawing bring the solar power to only one or two you can devote a lot of that 300 watts to prices and where you can really buy the at BlackBird in Biltmore Village outlets in the house for specific, targeted the TV (a newer 21-inch TV burns about stuff you need to green up some of your Call for details: (828) 225-3117 100 watts). Depending on what you have, or 258-2667; www.sabp.net uses. power consumption, pay a little less to the A television, stereo, DVD player or lap- you may even have enough solar power utility company each month, and add a Dec. 16 top computer does not draw the really left over to fire up a 60-watt lamp in the renewable power-pack to your home that “Forest Trail Walk” Guided Tour large wattage loads that can quickly suck room. will not only ease some of the guilt from Explores natural history in a battery bank dry, but they do tend to be The $3,000 - $4,000 system I’m talking watching too much TV, but which can different types of forests; wear turned on a lot of the time... 5 - 8 hours about can provide enough power to keep also stand in as an emergency electrical comfortable walking shoes and a day. That cumulative usage adds up on a media room running for 5 to 8 hours in supply during a power outage. layered clothes for outdoor tour the electric bill. What if we focus on using the evening and replenish the power the (828) 665-2492 next day from the Sun. If you run out of www.ncarboretum.org our small solar system to power ONLY Copyright 2006 by Mediabear, all rights the media room? stored battery power towards the end of reserved to the author For most people this means using about the day, you simply throw a switch and
36 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 [TGH]2 Greener is Better In Search of an Energy A Monorail INDEPENDENT America in Our Midst? A comprehen- The United States can become energy independent within two decades, sive statewide according to the “2006 Colorado Renewable Energy Summit Report” transportation pro- released earlier this year by U.S. Senator Ken Salazar (D-Colorado). posal for North He focuses on the following 10 recommendations: Carolina contains the bold, futuristic idea of building a mono- 1. Achieve the goal of 25% of all energy 7. Provide federal grant funding for rail system to reduce air pollution. consumed in the U.S. be produced from small, locally and community owned While this concept has been around for renewable resources by the year 2025. renewable energy projects. a while, it doesn’t seem to be going away This includes developing solar, biomass, despite accusations of being impractical and wind, geothermal, and new hydropower 8. Review federal statutory and regulato- too expensive. The Canary Coalition, a self- with an emphasis on solar and bio-fuels. ry requirements to determine whether described “grassroots clean air movement” Visit www.25x25.org. changes can be made so Rural Electric that promotes the ideal “We all have the Associations may buy and produce more right to breathe clean air!” is one of the 2. Restore, increase and protect funding to electricity from renewable resources. the National Renewable Energy Laboratory authors of the research project, along with (www.nrel.gov), the nation’s leading 9. Increase funding for new clean coal architect Mahaley Odell Thompson and renewable energy research institution. power technologies, including alternative Jackson County Smart Roads Alliance. To methods of capturing and sequestering read more, visit: www.canarycoalition.org. 3. Extend existing Production Tax Credits carbon dioxide from the existing fleet of through 2012 for electric power and liquid coal-fired power plants, to ensure the fuels produced from renewable sources. continued viability of coal as a domestic 4. Increase the manufacture and use of fuel source. And invest in new coal-to- Welcome advanced technology vehicles, including liquids technologies. flex-fuel vehicles able to run on either Wildlife to Your petroleum or renewable fuels. 10. Promote nuclear power since it does not contribute to global warming, and increase Certified Yard 5. Expand access to existing and new efforts for safety and security, as well as per- electric transmission for renewable energy manent storage for radioactive waste. The National Wildlife Federation through federal legislation and incentives. has helped over 50,000 U.S. property 6. Support accelerated research and devel- Visit www.TheGreenerHome.com to view the full owners make their backyards into cer- opment to produce hydrogen with renew- report. Enter the word SALAZAR in the site search. tified wildlife habitat sites. Find out able energy, including utility scale storage how you can make yours one, too, by and electric generating technologies. focusing on the five wildlife survival elements: food, water, cover, places to raise Harness Wind young, and sustain- able gardening RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE practices. Visit Energy in WNC www.nwf.org, and Western North Carolina residents are click on "Your Yard." THE GREENER HOME encouraged to harness wind energy on their property. That’s because wind energy maps indicate that all 24 WNC counties have good wind “Wind turbines have very low operating resources for producing electricity using costs, are impervious to fuel hikes, offer sta- Worthy Solar wind turbines. ble prices, and can help us reduce our 'Eloo' preserves the gift of clean water According to N.C. Small Wind Initiative dependence on imported fossil fuels. The Instrument by Byron Belzak (NCSWI), the top five of these counties use of wind energy will help us develop a that have the best wind resources adequate cleaner, more sustainable world for our chil- You can determine the solar potential system that does not ter than most. He (and corny jokes) at (703) 532-2210 or for electricity production with residential- dren and generations to come.” on your property, says the manufacturer use water or chemi- said the Eloo is [email protected]. scale wind systems are: Haywood, NCSWI identified 16,000 property of “Solar Pathfinder,” an affordable, Newly introduced to the US, cals; does not require designed to separate Watauga, Buncombe, Ashe and Avery. owners in Western North Carolina who technical, field instrument. the award-winning Enviro Loo electricity or power of solids from liquids, MORE INFORMATION: To receive com- “With the excellent wind resources own land with good wind resources. Pathfinder is said to allow you to deter- (“Eloo”) waterless dehydra- any sort; has no odor evaporate the liq- plete operations data, as well as service we have in the southern Appalachians, mine your total annual solar potential in a and breeds no flies; uids and de-water and maintenance requirements, call toll- electricity can be produced for as little as A map of each WNC county’s wind energy matter of minutes. Interested? It’s a click tion/evaporation toilet system three cents per kilowatt hour,” says Dr. potential is available at the following web site: away at www.solarpathfinder.com. It also has zero discharge; the solids, shrink- free at (866) 437-0672, or visit the CUA www.wind.appstate.edu/windresources/maps.php. may be the best solution to Dennis Scanlin, a wind researcher at comes with a carrying case, tripod, and typically requires ing them to about website at: www.eloo.us Appalachian State University. printed manual. Price: $255. treat human waste in moun- no dumping and no 10% or less of orig- tain retreats, remote cabins pumping. Even during inal mass. He said and recreation areas, because flooding, the manu- the Eloo is shipped The Greener Home Copyright 2006 Byron Belzak it is self-contained, relatively facturer claims that no unassembled, but The Greener Home GREENER affordable and, most impor- effluent will flow out that it can easily be “Greener is Better” The greener home, To the greener home. These oil wars are of the Eloo. assembled. He said tantly, does not pollute drink- Vol. 1, No. 1 It’s what we need. There’s no such thing as a Driving us into bankruptcy. that installation can Vol. 1 No. 7 Thoughts Greener is better. Cheap ride burning gasoline. The greener, the better. ing water. You will see, AN INNOVATIVE take as little as a There are alternatives. Greener is less meaner. PUBLISHER-EDITOR: Byron Belzak Belzak You will see. TECHNOLOGY few hours and the “The Greener Home” is a There are better ways to live. Greener is better ‘cause ART DIRECTOR: Simone Bouyer THAT CREATES system typically Dennis Ray song of hope and despair, Sustainable living, Sustainable living, Greener is cleaner SOCIAL CHANGE requires little main- The Greener Home is a MediaBear an inspired song that It’s the peaceful way. Is the gift that we can give In every way. ince its introduction in 1993 in Grow plants for bio-fuels. To our kids. John Voelcker tenance. publication, in print and online at reveals the pain of parents Bring them home, Africa, the Enviro Loo, nick- HOW IT WORKS ACCORDING TO CLEAN Stop the oil wars recently included Furthermore, www.TheGreenerHome.com Bring them home, Bring them home, named “Eloo” – which is manu- UP AMERICA V.P. TED KNIGHT: The Eloo everywhere, who are forced This way. the Eloo in his functions as a vault toilet with evaporative Voelcker notes to witness conflict and Bring them home, Bring our sons and factured by Enviro Options (Pty) Please write to: MediaBear, Bring them home, Bring our sons and Daughters back noteworthy article, exhaust. It has a drop toilet. Solids land on a in his article: PO Box 1040, Skyland, NC 28776 remorse while searching Ltd., a South African company entitled “ Innovative flapper that is manually operated to throw solids “Because the Bring them home, Daughters back To the greener home. SALES AND EDITORIAL for resolution and peace. – has revolutionized human waste Technologies: onto a drying tray running the length and width (Eloo) toilet uses : 828-768-5600 Bring our sons and To the greener home. These oil wars are E-MAIL: [email protected] Daughters back Burying our American Dream. S sanitation systems in some of the 10 Innovative of the polyethylene vault. Liquids drop through no water or chemi- driest and most undeveloped countries in to bottom of the unit. Heat from the sun cre- Copyright 2006 MediaBear This is the first publication of an original song written and performed by Byron Belzak, who is publisher-editor of TheGreenerHome.com. Technologies,” which ates lift even on cloudy and cold days, which cals, it doesn’t con- the world. was published in the taminate ground- All Rights Reserved He can be reached at PO Box 1040, Skyland, NC 28776; [email protected]; 828-768-5600. Even industrialized countries are turns the exhaust turbine sitting on top of the Summer 2006 issue of exhaust pipe above roofline. Liquids evaporate. water. And because beginning to get their minds around this the Sanford Graduate it doesn’t require most unusual solution that is nothing Solids dehydrate and, once shrunk, are removed School of Business in the holding bag that hangs inside of unit and electricity, it can like typical water-based septic systems or publication “Sanford is filled little by little from brushing dried solids be used anywhere. chemical portable toilets. Social Innovation into it once solids have migrated to the bottom The Enviro Loo Clean Up America, Inc., based in Review.” of the tray approximately every six months. Tray (Eloo) is odorless Tulsa, Okla., is the sole distributor of the He well explains is slanted towards access hatch at back end of and does not breed Eloo in the United States. Although only how the system works: unit. Hatch can be secured by padlock. Once flies – a lifesaving a handful of the thousands of Ello toilets holding bag is filled solids are removed and dis- “The sealed dehydra- posed of according to code. spec in areas suf- in operation are located in the U.S., Clean tion/evaporation sys- fering from insect- Up America (CUA) is looking to change tem drains liquids into borne disease.” all of that. It intends to attract American a tap below the solid-waste drying plate. Added Knight: “The Eloo will work consumers, as well as sign up new dis- As the liquids evaporate, the solid wastes where there is no water, where the ground tributors, installers, representatives and are subjected to enough radiant heat and is rocky, on hills and mountains and with investors throughout the country. ventilation to evaporate their liquid con- elevated or non-elevated structures and You might say Eloo in America is a tent and dehydrate the rest. Aerobic bacte- on shorelines. It is ideal for cabins, lodges, ground floor opportunity for anyone look- ria then convert the solid waste into a dry, recreational and rest areas where there is ing for a greener way to build and live – or compost-like material that has 10% or less no water for conventional sanitation. It maybe even make a living. of its original mass.” was designed to mitigate sanitation-borne diseases and due to its aerobic system the JUMPING STATE AND LOCAL WATERLESS, ZERO-DISCHARGE pathogen levels are extremely low.” BUILDING CODE HURDLES HUMAN SANITATION SYSTEM Knight considers the Eloo to be “the Eloo is like nothing that most people Ted Knight of CUA said the Enviro next generation in human sanitation.” He have seen or heard. In fact, building code Loo (“Eloo”) is a waterless, zero-dis- proudly noted that on Nov. 9, 2005, Dr. officials are having difficulty in trying charge onsite treatment system for human Brian La Trobe, the Eloo inventor and to figure out what to call it or how to fit waste. It is new to the United States but CUA Vice President of R&D, was award- it into their traditional building codes, has been in use around the world since ed the prestigious Intel Environmental explained Clean Up America vice presi- 1993 with 25,000 units currently in use Award by the Tech Museum of dent Ted Knight. He confirmed that the in Africa, South America, Australia and Innovation in San Jose, California (www. State of Virginia recently issued a green Greece. Although it works most efficiently techawards.org/laureates). light to Eloo. in dry climates, it still can work well with The Virginia Division of Onsite possible modification in more wet envi- MORE POOP ABOUT THE ELOO Sewage and Water Services has issued a ronments, including the eastern United US distributors (and that might be directive to local public officials to allow States. you someday!) purchase the Eloos from the Enviro Loo (Eloo) Privy, Model It has some features of vault toilets, CUA at wholesale prices and are free to #2040, to be used “in any situation where portable potties and composting toilets mark them up for resale, said Knight. He a vault privy may be permitted.” and is probably closest to the vault toilet. said the current suggested retail price is Obviously, it will take a while for all “But don’t call it a compost toilet,” $3895. Shipping and installation are addi- of the 3,147 counties in the United States said Knight. “It’s not.” tional costs. To receive more poop about to figure out how they, too, will clas- Knight understands the details bet- the Eloo, Ted Knight welcomes questions sify and permit a most remarkable toilet Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 37 RAPID RIVER ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE THE GREENER HOME Sin and consciousness tude that brings forth actions that would religion. to see this life is God. This life is mystery by Bill Walz be called sinful. This hearkens back to a From within the experience of separate- manifesting, and we are all embedded within it, “The greatest sin is to be watershed moment for me as a freshman ness, life is not experienced as interconnected we are it. There is no “I” in “we”. And there unconscious” in college. I was attending a lecture by wonder. Life is experienced as separated is. The paradox unfolding. The Father, the — Carl Jung the Jewish theologian, Abraham Heschel, objects competing with other separated objects. Son and the Holy Spirit. One. That’s what when in answer to a question concerning Life is conflict and competition. Thus flows Jesus was talking about. That’s what Buddha the nature of sin, he answered: “I con- unending exploitation and harm. Sin. Heschel was talking about. They taught the way to have always been drawn to the sider the origin of sin to be in the denial was right. In this separateness, this illusion salvation from suffering, the way back to the interlinking of religion and of the sublime wonder of life”. This of separateness, humans become savage. The Garden, these awakened beings, these two truly psychology. Bill statement was, for me, like the clouds irony of human history is that so-called civi- conscious beings. Each was saying in the idiom It must be remembered Walz parting, shining light on what had been lization is actually savagery. It is as Gandhi of his own culture, “follow me”. “Follow me that psychology is a modern a confusing and alienating concept from said when asked what were his thoughts on to awakening, follow me to consciousness”. European concept, while within my Christian upbringing. Western civilization, “It would be a good idea”. “Follow me back to union with God, to your people have wrestled with the issue of Sin is not actions for which we are to be We are trained by our culture to live own God Nature within.” “Be as the lilies of Imind and behavior, usually under the authority judged. After all, Jesus had said, “Judge not, within the prison of our ego, that psychological the field.” They both advised to travel light. of religion, since time immemorial. Religions lest ye be judged.” No, sin is an attitude of correlate to our experience of physical sep- Possessions, prideful self-absorption and power of the Orient would largely agree with Jung, separation. Adam’s original sin was his separa- arateness in the world. With this experience do not get you there. believing that the evil that man commits is tion from God and Nature. The original sin comes fear. We find ourselves alone, limited, Jung was quite correct. The greatest sin is caused by loss of connection to his own origi- that is passed on in Humanity is this separation vulnerable and with the vicissitudes of life to be unconscious. nal nature, which is good and in union with from Nature, from the sublime wonder of life. largely beyond our control. This is a state God. Buddhism teaches that instead, man has Out of this human alienation from Nature and very difficult for us to tolerate. It causes us become identified with and attached to a false it’s contents and creatures, including humanity, anxiety. We feel our sense of sufficiency, of sense of self, or ego. All Asian religions teach acts of dishonesty, manipulation, exploitation being good enough, as compromised. We then Bill Walz is a UNCA adjunct faculty that this is the source of human suffering. and violence become not only possible, but need to reestablish that we have sufficiency and member and a private-practice teacher of This state of, what Buddhism calls, uncon- inevitable. Judgment itself then is an act of control. So we get angry. We get violent and mindfulness, personal growth and con- sciousness, and the suffering that is resultant, separateness, which brings with it further sep- vengeful. We get greedy and covetous. We sciousness. He holds a weekly medita- can only be remedied through coming into arateness. The judger is trapped by their own get resentful, critical and judgmental. We get tion class, Mondays, 7pm at the Friends consciousness, through the realization of one’s judgment. The sin of perceived separateness manipulative and exploitive. We can steal and Meeting House, 227 Edgewood. Info own deepest nature. Sin is removed by awak- begets the deepened sin of further separateness, even kill. We get sinful. on classes and personal Zen training con- ening, by becoming enlightened. for out of this threatening state of separateness But when we become truly conscious, sultations at (828)258-3241 or e-mail at I have also long been intrigued by the acts of harm are easily justified. They even we return to the Garden. When we wake up [email protected] notion of sin not being an action but an atti- become justified as necessary in the service of to being fully present in life, we are then able
38 December 2006 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — Vol. 10, No. 4 FAMILY FUN:
Gallery 86 of the Haywood County Arts Council, 86 North Main Street, Waynesville, (828)452-0593 will hold Feliz Navidad Party for Children Thursday, Dec. 7, 4-6pm. All children are invited to celebrate in traditional Hispanic style. There will, of course, be piñatas filled with Mexican candies . Students from Tuscola Spanish classes will make the piñatas and be on hand for Spanish singing and games, and children's author, Lynda Fogel, will read her bilingual children's book in Spanish and in English. She will also have books on hand for sale and autographing. The most exciting moment will be announcing the four winners of the Feliz Navidad Ornament contest. The contest is open to youth in our Hispanic community or current students of Spanish. The four winners will have their ornament photographed to be used for the Arts Council's annual holiday card; winners will also receive gift certificates the toy store "Fun Things to Do." Sponsers of this event include Fun Things to Do, Osondu Booksellers, Communication Associates, the Haywood County Library, and the Craft Collection. Following the announcement of winners, each participant in the contest will be given an extra surprise and will hang his or her ornament on the Christmas tree in the gallery.
Vol. 10, No. 4 — Rapid River ArtS & CULTURE Magazine — December 2006 39 Enjoy Good Food • Live Entertainment Lunch • Dinner *Live Entertainment*
www.JerusalemGardenCafe.com
78 Patton Ave. • Downtown Asheville (828) 254-0255