Pete Seeger salute touts social activism
Don Henley-Phil Collins tribute delights crowd
— See REVIEW, Pg. A2
Nick Cave & Bad Seeds? Ominous
— See REVIEW, Pg. B1
See REVIEW, Pg. B1
LLE I V HE AS ASHEVILLEʼS GREATEST NEWSPAPER
July 2017
Vol. 13, No. 08
An Independent Newspaper Serving Greater Asheville www.ashevilledailyplanet.com FREE
Asheville Stars Ball event flows
McHenry slams ACA, touts GOP bill, catches flak By JOHN NORTH
john@AshevilleDailyPlanet.com
The 2nd annual Asheville Stars Ball featured all skills levels in ballroom dancing on June 3 at the Crowne Plaza in West Asheville. The one-day compe-
Special photo courtesy of WLOS-TV
tition culminated that evening with a dinner banquet that included a dance exhibition, followed by a dance party featuring local live music.
Special photo courtesy of WLOS-TV
Daily Planet staff photo
Rescue group ends plans to resettle refugees in Asheville
From Staff Reports
The nonprofit International Rescue Committee revealed on June 8 that it has scrapped plans to resettle 150 refugees in Asheville. An exploratory visit was made to the city last year, at which time the large humanitarian aid organization’s proposal received what the IRC termed as tremendous support. It also met with words of caution, echoed by Rep. Mark Meadows, RBuncombe, who said Americans must be compassionate while being wise to security risks. Another consideration was whether Asheville, for years in an affordable hous-
ing crisis with available wages inadequate for local rents, was a good place for so many people to make a fresh start. Challenges mounted in January, as newly elected President Donald Trump initially banned travel Sean Piazza from seven countries and specifically prohibited any more Syrian refugees from entering the United States. As masses were stranded mid-travel, lawyers sat on the floor of airports with their laptops, reaching out for relief. See REFUGEES, Page A6
Former Asheville City Councilman Chris Pelly vented his wrath in questioning the conservative agenda of 10th District U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry, RLincoln, during the June 2 meeting of the Council of Independent Business Owners. The early-morning breakfast meeting, which included a security detail of at least a half-dozen police officers, drew about 75 CIBO members and guests to UNC Asheville’s Sherrill Center. Usually, little or no security is on hand for CIBO meetings. However, McHenry has been embroiled in controversy from those opposing his legislation. He is the chief deputy whip in the House, where he has served six terms. A few people demonstrated in favor of the Affordable Care Act (commonly referred to as Obamacare) outside of the meeting, including Vijay Kapoor, a candidate from South Asheville vying for a seat on Asheville City Council. Kapoor told reporters that some of the problems with the ACA are the result of Republican efforts to sabotage it. McHenry was the sole speaker, addressing, as per CIBO’s billing, “An Update From Washington.” He spoke for about 13 minutes and then fielded questions for about 26 minutes.
Falling in leave
Q: My relationship ended recently, and I asked my ex not to contact me. But just as I’d start feeling a little less sad, I’d hear from him and fall apart. I’ve now blocked him on my phone and social media. This seems so immature. Why can’t I be more grown up about this? — Incommunicado A: For you, breaking up but staying in contact makes a lot of sense — about the same sort as trying to drop 20 pounds while working as a frosting taster. Sure, there’s this notion that you “should” be able to be friends with your ex. Some
U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry
Ex-councilman Chris Pelly
During his address, McHenry defended the House Republicans’ plan to rewrite the Affordable Care Act, noting that, because the law is not working, it is Congress’ duty to act. On a separate matter, McHenry predicted the passage of tax reform by the end of the year. However, he spent most of his speech and the Q&A criticizing the ACA and defending the House Republicans’ plan to repeal and replace it. To that end, McHenry asserted that many of those who the Congressional Budget Office says would lose insurance under the rewrite are buying it only because the ACA would impose a tax penalty on them if they failed to buy health care insurance. See McHENRY, Page A9
The Advice Goddess Amy Alkon
people can be — eventually or even right away — especially if they had a relationship that just fizzled out instead of the kind where you need a rowboat to make it to the kitchen through the river of your tears. However — not surprisingly — clinical psychologists David Sbarra and Robert Emery find that “contact with one’s former partner … can stall the emotional adjustment process” by reactivating both love and painful emotions. See ADVICE GODDESS, Page A11
A2 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Buncombe’s top staffer Review retiring effective July 1 Pete Seeger salute? Lovable From Staff Reports
On May 30, Buncombe County Manager Dr. Wanda Green announced she would be retiring June 30, marking a solid 20 years, to the day, of service in that capacity. Greene said she was leaving of her own volition and at peace with her decision. Greene just completed a county revaluation and the subsequent budget process, which settled on a general fund of $328,862,410 and a 53.9cent tax rate. Charged with fulfilling directions from the commissioners and keeping things running smoothly, Greene managed state and federal mandates to cover core services, which comprise 92 percent of the county’s operating fund. She oversaw 1,600 employees, providing health and human services, education, parks and recreation, public safety and other services to a population of about 323,000. Greene’s career was recently marked by a five-year, $120 million capital improvement Wanda Greene plan, which included investment in two new schools and a new health and human services building. One of Greene’s hallmarks was budgeting with transfers from fund balance that never had to be drawn due to strategic management throughout the year. Greene has been credited with surrounding herself with competent staff, such as assistant county managers Jon Creighton and Mandy Stone. With Creighton, Greene took over management of A-B Tech’s controversy-shrouded capital improvement plan, making serious, pragmatic cuts. Stone repeatedly received visits from state officials interested in learning how she achieved various successes managing health and human services. Greene indicated she would be striking out in new directions while remaining a local presence, spending more time with her family and grandchildren. Her bucket list, she said, is full of things she wants to accomplish and changes she wants to make.
HHS director named new county manager
From Staff Reports Ten days after Buncombe County Manager Dr. Wanda Greene announced her plans to retire, the county Board of Commissioners called a special meeting June 9. The body met in closed session for about 45 minutes and emerged with news that Mandy Stone would be the new county manager. The vote was not unanimous, as some commissioners wanted to appoint an interim director while the county, as Chairman Brownie Newman described it, “cast a wide net.” While some wanted to explore options, Newman spoke as if most believed deep down and all Mandy Stone along that Stone would be the most qualified candidate in the end. Stone has worked for the county since 1981. She began as an income maintenance caseworker for the Department of Social Services. She worked her way up, becoming a social worker, a supervisor, assistant director, and then in 2001 director of Health and Human Services. In 2005, she accepted the responsibility of serving as assistant county manager while still serving in her directorship. Stone weathered storms of the turbulent Obamacare rollout compounded by glitches in the state’s new computer system that were leaving, for example, many across the state without food assistance. Her ability to do more with less and succeed where other counties were failing often attracted attention from state leadership, who visited the county to see what she was doing.
By DAVE ROWE
Special to the Daily Planet
Songs that marked the career of a major figure of American folk music rang out in “Seeger, a Multimedia Solo Show” June 14-25 at the North Carolina Stage Company in downtown Asheville. “We Shall Overcome,”sung by actor Randy Noonjin in a portrayal of Pete Seeger, was associated with the icon and was the anthem of the civil rights movement. Nooonjin explained to the small crowd at the venue that Seeger adapted it from an early 20th century song called “We Will Overcome.” “Pete changed it to ‘shall,’” said Noonjin, sporting a trademark Seeger billed leather cap and carrying a long-neck banjo. “‘Shall’ felt better in the mouth for singing than ‘will,’” he added. Nonjin’s rendition of “Goodnight, Irene” drew heart-felt vocal accompaniment from the June 16 audience. In 1949, the Weavers, a folk quarter that included Seeger, had a smash hit with the song written by Leadbelly. A songwriter himself, Seeger with fellow Weaver member Lee Hayes, penned “If I Had a Hammer.” Noonjin, in clear tenor voice, sang it that night and once again the mostly grey-haired crowd of 33 in the 150-seat theater sang along. In 1951, Seeger was charged by the federal government with associating with communists and was blacklisted. For 17 years, his music was banned from the national airwaves. During that period, he penned “Turn Turn Turn,” with verses adapted from the Bible. In 1965, it became a No. 1 hit for the folkrock group, the Byrds. On June 16, 2017, Noonjin’s version was accompanied by scenic landscapes projected on a large screen. While forcibly out of the spotlight, Seeger, according to Noonjin, played small venues only. “He loved playing in grade schools more than anything,” said
the actor who also wrote the narration of the 90 minute production. “He loved leading those kids in singing ‘This Land is Your Land.’” In 2013, the real-life Pete Seeger led a singalong of the Woody Guthrie anthem at a Farm Aid concert — with Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp helping out. Five years earlier, Seeger (who died in 2014 at age 94) sang at the Smithsonian Institution with family members, including half-sister Peggy Seeger. A singer/songwriter herself, Peggy Seeger lived in Asheville in the 1990s — and performed here often. Asheville is where Seeger — a life-long champion of peace, human rights and clear air and clean water — first heard the five-string banjo, his signature instrument. It happened when he, as a teenager, heard one at a Mountain Dance and Folk festival and reportedly it was love at first Pete Seeger listen. Noonjin following his show pointed out that the banjo he uses is authentic — it, like the model Seeger invented, is two frets longer than the standard one. On it is inscribed the words: “This machine surrounds hate and forces it to surrender.” “Woody Guthrie’s guitar had ‘This machine kills facists’ written on it,” said Noonjin. “Pete was following suit.” Five years ago, Noonjin was in Asheville, portraying Woody Guthrie in a one-man show called “Hard Travelling With Woody Guthrie.” On tour nationally with his simply titled “Seeger” show, he is the winner of countless acting and writing awards. A native of Indiana he did NOT grow up a folk music aficianado. “I liked Hank Williams,” he said. “The folk music came later.”
Asheville Daily Planet — July 2017 - A3
Bill to split Asheville “THREATS & SOLUTIONS into districts clears IN TODAY'S WORLD” House on 67-49 vote JULY 22, 2017 Dems’ Turner make deal, lends support 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
From Staff Reports
RALEIGH — A bill to divide Asheville into districts for the purpose of electing members of Asheville City Council passed the full House 67-49 on June 27. The measure cleared the Senate in April, and now that a revised version received final approval from the House, it will make its way back to the Senate for approval of the House version of the bill. At that point, the bill would become law. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Chuck Edwards, R-Henderson, who is claiming members of council typically come from a certain geographic region of the city — especially North Asheville, downtown and West Asheville, leaving many groups feeling disenfranchised. Edwards’ bill calls for dividing the city into six districts, each to elect its own representative for city council. The mayor would continue to be elected citywide. It further instructs the city’s designees to draw the districts no later than Nov. 1, for implementation in the 2019 election; with the default position being that the legislature will draw the district lines in 2018. Meanwhile, Rep. Brian Turner, DBuncombe, committed his support for the bill after striking a deal in which Edwards agreed to an amendment to allow an independent commission to draw the districts. The independent commission that Turner is proposing would have seven members with no more than three coming from the same political party. Trying to preserve as much autonomy as possible in the given circumstances, the city launched a parallel defensive track with a citizen survey. Not finding much interest in district elections, council decided to hold a referendum on Nov. 7 to record the voice of the people. That is the same date as the general election for four council seats. Council is scheduled to vote July 25 on whether or not to hold that referendum, a point that may by then be moot. Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer has said the legislature may be setting itself up for a legal challenge on constitutional grounds. Manheimer — an attorney with experience working with state government — had previously expressed concerns over things that can go wrong when people unfamiliar
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Rep. Chuck Edwards
Rep. Brian Turner
with the area try to draw districts. Both Edwards and Turner represent South Asheville, an area that tends to vote more in-line with business interests and fiscal conservatism than the rest of the city. Turner’s support of Edwards’ bill, which passed the Senate in April, likely will improve its chances of passing the House, when it comes up for a floor vote, likely some time in early July. Edwards noted that Asheville has grown significantly since its current system of government was enacted in 1935, but that the election process has not changed. He added that the time for change in Asheville’s system is now.
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A4 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
RAD overhaul over budget by $26M; cutbacks planned From Staff Reports
Plans to turn Asheville’s River Arts District into a multimodal community are now being revised because of a $26 million cost overrun. The projects were sent out for bid, and proposals came back in May with price tags over 50 percent beyond projections. City staff members are attributing the difference to skyrocketing construction costs and land values. The renovations would have added three new greenways, traffic circles, protected bike lanes, and sidewalks for an estimated $50 million. Projects would have been funded with $17 million in direct federal funds and another $4.7 million passed through the state. An additional $600,000 would have come from state programs, $1.8 million from the local hotel tax, $300,000 from county coffers, and $26 million from city taxpayers. To stay within budget, the city is now looking at eliminating greenway extensions and streetside multimodal improvements. Specifically, the cuts defund the completion of the French Broad River Greenway West Bank, the Town Branch Greenway, and the Bacoate Greenway; with original
estimates of $3.0 million, $3.2 million, and $3.6 million, respectively. Also on the chopping block are two-way buffered bike lines and sidewalk that would run along Lyman Street; bike lanes, miniroundabouts, and pedestrian safety features along Livingston Street; a railroad crossing for bicycles on Riverside Drive; and a retaining wall for sidewalk near the Hillcrest neighborhood. Investments the city still intends to make in RAD improvements include 1.5 acres of gardens plus a water demonstration garden, a boat ramp, and a 1-acre plaza with interactive sculpture. Work on projects using federal funding must begin this August and be completed by December 2020. The proposed cuts stirred Mike Sule, director of Asheville on Bikes, to write an open letter urging the city not to postpone infrastructure upgrades critical for public safety. Meanwhile, at its June 27 meeting, Asheville City Council agreed to appropriate $6 million toward filling the funding gap. The board further entertained a proposal from former councilman Marc Hunt to streamline the Lyman Street improvements into a single, 16-foot-wide, striped
From Staff Reports Following opposition expressed by neighbors, a proposed infill development of 260 workforce housing units for south Buncombe County has been yanked off the table. The plan was to build 230 apartments
and 30 town homes on Overlook Road in southern Buncombe County. Derek Allen, an attorney with Ward and Smith, P.A., who is representing Greensboro developer Zach Tran, said the next proposal will be substantially different. See OVERLOOK, Page A6
Opposition prevails (for now) as Overlook apartment plan nixed
multimodal path. Acting City Manager Cathy Ball explained the decisions for cuts were made in order to preserve federal and local tourism funding. The Livingston Street improvements were cut because nobody bid on them. Council decided to go forward with the RAD improvements, leaving a number of items at the bottom of the priority list with no funding; but requested more transpar-
ency and accountability in the future. While city staff works with funders on strategic cuts, it is expected to give the appropriate advisory boards a chance to weigh in while still meeting the August deadline. Local bicycling advocates, including Sule, have raised safety concerns. “As you adjust priorities, public safety must be your primary criterion,” Sule wrote.
Asheville Daily Planet —July 2017 - A5
15 downtown structures, Jackson Building, sold in $28M deal From Staff Reports
The Jackson Building
In a single real estate deal, many classic landmarks in downtown Asheville were transferred to new ownership. On May 26, Pack Square Property, LLC, paid $28.3 million for seven tracts owned by seven investors who purchased the properties in 2004 at a cost of $15 million. The LLC is registered in Delaware, but its parent company is Wicker Park Capital Management, an investment company headquartered in Savannah, Ga. Wicker Park has invested $6.7 billion in real estate deals across the country, with a couple of recent
transactions encompassing similar properties with similar values in Birmingham and Madison, Ala. The Asheville transaction involved 15 structures, all south of Pack Square. Most notable of the newly purchased buildings is the tall and slender, gargoyle-topped Jackson Building and the four other buildings of architectural interest lining the south side of Pack Square; the row of buildings on the east side of Biltmore Avenue that includes the Marble Slab Creamery; and the block of six buildings across the street including Posana Restaurant and Salsas. A long-term lease was also entered into for the nearby parking garage on Biltmore Avenue and the
connected row of retail properties on north Eagle Street. The Jackson Building annex, a vacant lot, and a few easements completed the deal. No change in day-to-day operations for tenants was expected, but some feared the new landlords would raise rents, something that may be inevitable in light of recent revaluations. The sellers, a contingent of seven investors including former fast-food executive Steve McManus, made a profit of $13.3 million after buying the properties for $15 million in 2004, county register of deeds records show. Most of the investors were part of Pack Square Investors LLC.
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A6 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Refugees
Continued from Page A1 Court cases cited Trump’s campaign rhetoric calling for a “Muslim ban” as evidence the executive orders represented un-constitutional discrimination based on religion. The courts put a stay on the ban, and Trump presented another plan, walking back the ban on Iraq and making only temporary the suspension of entry imposed on Syrian refugees. This, too, was blocked by the courts, which argued it was “rooted in religious animus and intended to bar Muslims from this country.” Then, on June 8, the IRC announced that it was unable to risk proceeding with plans. The series of executive orders and court challenges had clouded future admission of refugees with too much uncertainty for the organization to develop strategies.
Overlook
Continued from Page A4 Allen said organized neighborhood opposition was an important factor in the decision. Residents from Biltmore Park and the Oak Forest community spoke against the proposal, mostly with concerns about traffic. Overlook Road, which would service the development, is narrow with insufficient room for widening and already congested with traffic. It serves as a key connector between Hendersonville Road and Long Shoals Road. Ideas being considered now by the developer include reducing the number of units, adding a convenience store so people would drive less, or using traffic calming to divert cut-through traffic. Allen said the next proposal will be different in terms of the type and number of units. He further assured the developer would meet with neighbors for input on the new design. Asheville City Council candidate Vijay Kapoor, a South Asheville resident, was a spokesperson for the organized opposition. He described the design review process as “absolutely crazy.” Other neighbors complained they had had no chance to voice complaints. The development would not have required review by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners. The county Board of Adjustment would have had final say, and
The recent Supreme Court decisions have little to do with refugee resettlement, as relief is only for persons with clear connections to family or organizations in the US; and at that, only for as long as it takes the court to make a final decision. The IRC helped resettle almost 10,000 refugees, including Afghans, Iraqis, and Syrians, in 2015. Under the Trump administration, with tens of thousands waiting, the rate of refugees flowing into the country has been halved. Most are coming from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Iraq, Somalia and Myanmar. Undaunted, IRC spokesman Sean Piazza urged concerned citizens to prevail upon their representatives in Congress to continue the work of providing a safe haven for the world’s most vulnerable.
it cannot consider neighborhood opposition in approving or denying proposals.
Published monthly by Star Fleet Communications Inc. JOHN NORTH Publisher
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NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING FOR THE PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS ON KANUGA ROAD (S.R. 1127) FROM CHURCH STREET / U.S. 25 BUSINESS TO LITTLE RIVER ROAD (S.R. 1123) IN HENDERSONVILLE, HENDERSON COUNTY TIP PROJECT NO. R-5748 The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting regarding the proposed improvements on Kanuga Road (S.R. 1127) from Church Street / U.S. 25 Business to Little River Road (S.R. 1123), in Hendersonville. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The City of Hendersonville’s Operational Center located at 305 Williams Street. The purpose is to upgrade and improve Kanuga Road (S.R. 1127) from Church Street / U.S. 25 Business to Little River Road (S.R. 1123), in Hendersonville. The public may attend at any time during the hours mentioned above. NCDOT representatives will be available to answer questions and listen to comments regarding the project. The opportunity to submit written comments will also be provided at the meeting or via phone, email, or mail by July 28, 2017. Comments received will be taken into consideration as the project develops. Please note that no formal presentation will be made. Project information and materials can be viewed as they become available online at http://www.ncdot.gov/projects/publicmeetings. For additional information, contact Division Project Manager, Steve Williams, Division Planning Engineer at 253 Webster Road, Sylva, NC 28779 or by e-mail: sjwilliams@ncdot.gov, or by calling (828) 586-2141. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Tony Gallagher, Human Environment Section via e-mail at magallagher@ncdot. gov or by phone (919) 707-6069 as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. Persons who speak Spanish and do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior to the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494. Aquellas personas que hablan español y no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan antes de la reunión llamando al 1-800-481-6494.
A8 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Faith Notes Send us your faith notes
Please submit items to the Faith Notes by noon on the third Wednesday of each month, via email, at spirituality@ashevilledailyplanet.com, or fax to 252-6567, or mail c/o The Daily Planet, P.O. Box 8490, Asheville, N.C. 28814-8490. Submissions will be accepted and printed at the discretion of the editor, space permitting. To place an ad for a faith event, call 252-6565.
Sunday, July 2
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION CLASS, 10 a.m.noon, Asheville Shambhala Meditation Center, 60 N. Merrimon Ave., Suite 112, Asheville A mindfulness meditation class will feature sitting and walking meditation. Attendees are invited to arrive and leave at any time. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted. SUMMER SERVICE, 10:30 a.m., Anderson Auditorium, Montreat Conference Center, Montreat. Dr. Ted Wardlaw, president of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, will address “Whoever welcomes....” in MCC’s Summer Worship Series. SPEAKER, 10:30 a.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. The Rev. John Philip Newell will be the first speaker in the six-week 2017 LJ Summer Worship Series. He is billed as a poet, scholar and ordained minister of the Church of Scotland “with a passion for peace among the great wisdom traditions of humanity.” MAKING LIFE MEANINGFUL TEACHINGS, 7-8:30 p.m., Meditation in Asheville, 1070 Tunnel Road, Asheville. A program, “Living Your Best Life: Meditations to Make Life Meaningful,” will be presented by Buddhist teacher Sharon Lovich. Admission is free for monthly members, $10 for the general public and $5 for students and seniors. BALSAM RANGE CONCERT , 7:30 p.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. Balsam Range, a bluegrass and accoustic group, will open a three-day concert series. The Haywood Countybased group was the International Bluegrass Music Association’s 2014 Entertainer of the Year recipient. For tickets, visit lakejunaluska.com/ concerts, or call (800) 222-4930 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Monday, July 3
LAURA STORY CONCERT , 7:30 p.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. Laura Story will perform as part of a three-day concert series.
She is billed as “a well-known Christian artist.” For tickets, visit lakejunaluska.com/concerts, or call (800) 222-4930 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Tuesday, July 4
LAKE JUNALUSKA SINGERS CONCERT , 7:30 p.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. The Lake Junaluska Singers will conclude a three-day concert series.For tickets, visit lakejunaluska.com/ concerts, or call (800) 222-4930 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Thursday, July 6
SENIORSALT IMPACT HYMN SING, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., the Billy Graham Training Center, 1 Porters Cove Road, Asheville. A SeniorSalt Impact hymn singing will be led by Ron Whittemore and David Gaines, followed by music and a buffet-style meal. For tickets, visit www.thecove.org. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION/DHARMA READING, 7-8:30 p.m,., Asheville Shambhala Meditation Center, 60 N. Merrimon Ave., Suite 112, Asheville A mindfulness meditation program will include sitting and walking meditation and no experience is necessary. Tea, a dharma reading and conversation will follow the meditation. Admission is free, but donations will be accepted.
Sunday, July 9
SUMMER SERVICE, 10:30 a.m., Anderson Auditorium, Montreat Conference Center, Montreat. The Rev. Paul Roberts, president of Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, will address “The Power of the Redirect” in MCC’s Summer Worship Series. SPEAKER, 10:30 a.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. The Rev. Bob Bowling will be the second speaker in the six-week 2017 LJ Summer Worship Series. He served 41 years in the ordained ministry of the United Methodist Church in the UMC North Georgia Annual Conference and as a district superintendent of the AtlantaRosell District. He is the recipient of Foundation for Evangelism’s Harry Denman Award for “an exceptional ministry of evangelism expressed in Word, Sign and Deed that brings people into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.”
Wednesday, July 12
FILM, 6 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 Sixth Ave. West, Hendersonville. Rick Steves’ film “Luther and the Reformation” will be shown on large digital screens. The program includes a 15-minute introduction and a one-hour film screening, followed by a discussion, with cookies and punch.
Friday, July 14
SOCIAL JUSTICE MOVIE NIGHT, 7 p.m., Sanford
Hall Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville. The UUCA will hold its monthly Social Justice Movie Night. Film is to be announced. A discussion will follow the screening. Admission is free.
Sunday, July 16
SUMMER SERVICE, 10:30 a.m., Anderson Auditorium, Montreat Conference Center, Montreat. The Rev. Amy Butler, pastor of Riverside Church in New York City, will address “Hoarding God” in MCC’s Summer Worship Series. SPEAKER, 10:30 a.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. The Rev. Mary Beth Blinn, lead pastor of Fairlington UMC in Alexandria, Va., will be the third speaker in the six-week 2017 LJ Summer Worship Series.
The Rev. Frank Thomas, faculty member of Christian Theological Seminary, will address “A Grain of Sand” in MCC’s Summer Worship Series. SPEAKER, 10:30 a.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. The Rev. Tim McClendon will be the fifth speaker in the six-week 2017 LJ Summer Worship Series. He serves as senior pasor at St. John’s UMCA in Aiken, S.C.
Sunday, July 23
SUMMER SERVICE, 10:30 a.m., Anderson Auditorium, Montreat Conference Center, Montreat. The Rev. David Bartlett, professor emeritus of Yale Divinity School, will address “Groaning for Redemption” in MCC’s Summer Worship Series. SPEAKER, 10:30 a.m., Stuart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center, Lake Junaluska. Bishop Sharma Lewis will be the fourth speaker in the six-week 2017 LJ Summer Worship Series. She became the first African-American woman to be elected bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church.
Sunday, July 30
SUMMER SERVICE, 10:30 a.m., Anderson Auditorium, Montreat Conference Center, Montreat.
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McHenry
Continued from Page A1 During the Q&A that followed McHenry’s update, Pelly, an East Asheville resident, Realtor, Democrat and supporter of the ACA (also known as Obamacare), noted that, based on data on “the recently passed Health Care Reform” bill from the Congressional Budget Office, “about 78,000 people in your district will lose their health care. … If you do all of this (as described in his address) — take away health care (from the poor) and give tax reform to the richest people in the country, what’s your endgame? What’s your vision” for the future? McHenry began his answer by noting that his stance on the issues is “not what you describe. You’re making assessments on a broad set of other people and putting it on me... I’m advocating public policy that is going to be good for our voters.” After a pause, McHenry added in an apparent reference to Pelly’s affiliation as a Democrat, “I understand your partisan viewpoint.” The congressman also asked Pelly, specifically, “Where did you get that number from?” “It’s from Talking Points” website, Pelly replied. McHenry then said, “Between 11 million and 14 million people will not purchase health insurance — if not compelled by the individual mandate. Now we may disagree on the individual mandate. The congressman lamented that such a large number of Americans “say they can’t afford to buy the subsidized” health care — or refuse to pay. Further, the congresssman said that the North Carolinians who are getting insurance through the law “pay the second-highest health insurance rates in the nation because we don’t have a competitive market.” He noted that Blue Cross Blue Shield North Carolina is the only carrier in the state.What’s more, he said the ACA has been a failure nationally — and Obamacare plans are not even available in most of Iowa. Insurers “are pulling out because it’s a disaster,” McHenry noted. Taking a verbal shot at Pelly, McHenry said, “So do you want me to sit merrily by, while I see people being harmed” as the current health care system deteriorates? McHenry added that eliminating the individual mandate” enables people to make choices for themselves rather than society compelling them to buy products they may not want.” Pelly interjected that motor-vehicle drivers are required — by law — to buy car insurance and that that policy seems to work well, so he thought the same requirement would be successful with the health care system. Responding generally at first, McHenry said that health insurance available to Western North Carolina residents buying it on an individual basis and outside the ACA might carry a $10,000 annual deductible. Regarding Pelly’s remark specifically, McHenry then said, “They can’t even use it if they get in a car crash... We’ve got to do something different.” While McHenry admitted that the number of people without health insurance has dropped under the ACA, he contended that the reducation has not been commensurate with the amount of money the federal government spends on the program. “I was trying to talk about nuances…. I think we can agree we’ve got to do better. And that’s what I’m trying “to make happen with the new health care bill that has passed the House.” Another critic challenging McHenry’s Q&A was Jerry Sternberg, who introduced himself as an Asheville native. He asked, “Do you support under the new health care bill ... the withholding for Planned Parentshood? Its one of the few providers that accept Medicare” in North Carolina. Otherwise, “Where will these people — mostly women — go for treatment?”
“Of the 700,000 people in my district, there is only one Planned Parenthood facility — and it’s in Asheville,” McHenry replied. If Planned Parenthood is not available to help them, “they will go to the health department or to federally qualified health care facilities. Asheville has the best hospital (Mission Hospital) within a half a day’s drive.” “What’s your objection to Planned Parenthood?” Sternberg asked. “They’re the largest abortion provider,” McHenry answered. He then added that, “if you’re telling me they can’t exist… that brings to question their business model.” “Are they going to give women free co-pay for their birth control?” Sternberg asked, as McHenry smiled and the microphone was passed to the next questioner. McHenry was introduced as someone who got an early start in electoral politics, first getting elected to office at age 29. Earlier, during his short address, McHenry began on an esoteric note, asserting, “It’s a beautiful mountain morning! There’s a reason why people want to be here” in Western North Carolina. “Asheville certainly is the economic powerhouse” of the western region. “So certainly, y’all know what’s going on in history.We’re the best-informed people in United States history.” However, while he said a lot of information is available to the public, “that doesn’t mean it’s accurate.” “People ask me about leaks all of the time… The nuance of every conversation, large or small, is so politicized.” He added, “Look, you hired me to do a political job. But I also wanted to talk to you beyond the tweet.” McHenry said he planned to speak briefly, addressing health care reform and tax reform, leaving the rest of the time open for a question-and-answer session. “It should come as no surprise that the Republicans want to repeal and replace Obamacare,” he said. “Let’s rewind, you’ve heard Republicans say they wanted to do this... With a Republican Congress and Republican president…. it should not be a surprise... This is the first time the Republicans have had a chance” to progress on these issues. He noted that President Donald J. Trump “vetoed the original plan” by the Republicans. “That was of no surprise.” GOP leaders went back to the drawing board, McHenry said, and working within the constraints of the legislative process, built a plan that addresses “How do you make health care a better marketplace” that provides good services while keeping costs down. “There are a number of provisions (in Obamacare) that actually drive up the cost of health care,” he noted. For instance, McHenry said, “Roughly 90 percent of the American people are in a group market, Medicare or Medicaid or VA (Veterans Administration) benefits.” Meanwhile, about “10 percent — roughly 30 million Americans — are in the individual market or uninsured.’ Further, he said, “The uninsured rate has fallen. Without a mandate, we’d have 10 (million) to 13 million (Americans) with no insurance, according to the Congressional Business Office. In the proposed new health care bill, “We change it from a subsidization schedule to one that gives tax credits. Also, we put into the market Health Savings Accounts. “The policy that we passed out of the House of Representatives is a $1 trilliondollar tax cut. It also hands over to the state our ability to make the delivery of health care for those who are indigent….” The House’s replacement plan for Obamacare, which is known as the American Health Care Act, would eliminate the individual mandate, cut funding to Medicaid, reduce taxes used to pay for the ACA and allow states to get exceptions to ACA rules on what insurance must cover and how much people with pre-existing conditions must pay for coverage. (The CBO reported on May 24 that 51 million people would be uninsured in 2016, if the House plan becomes law, compared to 28 million who would not have coverage
Asheville Daily Planet — July 2017 - A9
if the ACA stays in effect.) Next, McHenry turned to what he described as “the sticky stuff of tax reform.” He said the tax reform process “is not covered well in the media,” so he wanted to make sure the CIBO attendee realized that, while it takes only a simple majority to get a policy through the House, for the Senate, you need 60 votes. That is tough to do, he said, with 52 Republicans and 48 Democrats in Congress, most voting along party lines. McHenry then heaped praise on the legislative efforts of Trump. “More pieces of legislation were passed in this president’s first 100 days than during that of (Barack) Obama, (George) Bush or (Bill) Clinton.” Specifically, McHenry said Trump should be credited with getting passage of 38 bills during his first 100 days in office, a figure, he said, that tops his three immediate predecessors. “That’s not drama; it’s legislative results.” McHenry concluded, “While there’s drama elsewhere, I’m going to drive policy that helps my constituents.” The CIBO crowd applauded politely, as the Q&A began, with George Morizoney of Asheville asking about tax reform. “Why can’t we go ahead and get the business tax in? Get the business tax in and then go back to the individuals?” In response, McHenry said, that corporate income tax proceeds were just a fraction of inidividual tax proceeds, so that is why Congress and the president are first focusing on individual taxes. In general, he said, “It’s the most complicated tax code in the world. And the United States has the highest tax rate in the first world. “So your motivation to repatriate capital from overseas is well-founded and we will get that done later this year. I think it’s worth waiting two months so that we can get it right. “The work on the individual tax code is basically done. The work on the corporate tax code will take the rest of the year. It’s a tough issue set with really difficult deci-
sions to be made,” McHenry said. CIBO member Mac Swicegood asked, “How to handle the discord” among his fellow House members? “I mean you’re a ‘whip?’” “First of all, I don’t have time to watch TV,” McHenry said with a wry smile. “There’s an enormous benefit to that.” (His verbal slap at television news triggered the only laughter of the meeting from the crowd.) “How you get policy done is sit down with people who you don’t agree with, and hash things out,” rather than battling it out in front of TV cameras or holding duels, as was sometimes the case centuries ago. “That’s a reason I don’t sit down and do TV. Instead, I’m spending time working with people and trying to get policies passed. The fistfight in the hallway — that gets covered. I don’t get covered.” Another man said, “You’re touching on tax reform, health care, infrastructure. How unified is the Republican Party to get these things through before the end of this year?” “Not as unified as I’d like, but unified on health care and tax reform,” McHenry replied. “Let’s face it... Republicans are an independent lot. But around tax reform and around health care, there is unity and we have to get things done. I firmly believe you’ve got to get tax reform done this calendar year.” Laura Herndon, a UNCA associate vice chancellor, noted, “We (in academia) have concerns about the president’s proposed cuts to higher deducation. Could you address that?” “I don’t think you’re going to see higher education cuts,” McHenry answered. However, he added, “There certainly are reforms that need to be made on student loans. There are very few choices on how to get lending. We’ll try to get better packages to (help students) pay for college. That won’t get as much coverage as health care, tax reform — and even Russia.”
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A10 — July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
The Daily Planet’s Opinion
Nina Simone’s childhood home in Tryon worth saving
W
e heartily commend the four prominent African-American artists who quietly got together and pooled their money to top competing bids in a recent successful quest to buy the childhood home of Nina Simone, Tryon’s most famous resident, in nearby Tryon for $95,000. Until a few years ago, the humble, 660-square-foot, three-room clapboard house was unknown even to many Tryon residents. However, those who did know that 30 E. Livingston St. was the birthplace of the singer, soul legend and civil rights icon feared that the house’s appearance on the market late last year might result in demolition by its new owner. (Simone died in 2003 at age 70.) In February, the purchase was made by conceptualist Adam Pendleton, sculptor and painter Rashid Johnson, collagist and filmmaker Ellen Gallagher and abstract painter Julie Mehretu. Thanks to their efforts, those interested in jazz and blues music, or the civil rights movement, will be able to make a pilgrimage to Simone’s childhood home. They describe the purchase as an act of art but also of politics — and as a gratifying chance to respond to what they see as a deepening racial divide in America, when Simone’s fiery example of culture warrior seems more potent than ever. To its credit, Tryon dedicated a bronze statue — by sculptor Zenos Frudakis — memorializing Simone, on Feb 21, 2010. The statue depicts Simone nimbly playing a floating, undulating keyboard in front of the old town theater in a park. Simone’s daughter gave some of Simone’s ashes to Frudakis, who sealed them in a bronze heart within the statue’s chest. Both the homeplace plan and the statue are fitting recognition of Simone’s contributions.
China, N.C. — Thucydides and Charlie Soong
CHAPEL HILL — During the past few days, the release of North Carolina native Graham Allison’s book, “Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides’s Trap?” and Allison’s visit to his home state focused attention on the United States’s relationship with China. According to Allison, founding dean of the Harvard University’s Kennedy School, history shows the likelihood of war between the two countries is great. During appearances last week at the Charlotte World Affairs Council in his hometown and at his Davidson College 1962 class reunion weekend, he explained why there is a great risk of war. His phrase, “the Thucydides trap,” now in common use by world leaders, explains that when a rising power challenges and alarms an established ruling power, escalation toward war can result. In his classic, “The Peloponnesian Wars,” the ancient Greek historian Thucydides, wrote, “What made war inevitable was the growth of Athenian power and the fear which this caused in Sparta.” Allison sets out 16 times during the past 500 years when rising powers have challenged ruling ones. Twelve times the result was war. Allison went on to say war is not inevitable, but avoiding it will require both countries to exercise caution, patience, and an understanding of the other’s important aspirations. China’s leader, Xi Jinping, has acknowledged the risk, saying, “We must all work together to avoid Thucydides’s trap.” We can hope that in managing U.S. and China relations, both Xi and President Donald Trump will remember the dangers Allison and Thucydides describe. Allison’s North Carolina connections and his description of today’s China brought to mind the amazing story about how a young Chinese man on the docks of Wilmington in 1880 became one of China’s most powerful men. Another recent book, written by Greensboro’s Ed Haag, “Charlie Soong: North Carolina’s Link to the Fall of the Last Emperor of China,” retells a great North Carolina story so unbelievable it could be a fairytale or an adventure story by Nathaniel Hawthorne or Pearl Buck. Set in the 19th Century, a young boy leaves home in China, somehow makes his way to Wilmington, becomes a Christian, and charms prominent North Carolinians who provide for his education and send
D.G. Martin him back to China to win souls. Somehow, this young man known as Charlie Soong becomes a successful and wealthy business leader in China. He raises funds to support Sun Yat-Sen’s efforts to overthrow the conservative and authoritarian Qing dynasty. He sent his six children back to the U.S. for their education. Haag suggests one reason Soong sent them away from China was because they were in danger from the Qing regime due to their father’s support for Sun Yat-Sen’s revolution. When the children came back to China, all played historic roles. One daughter, Ching-ling, married SunYat-sen himself and became “Madame SunYat-sen,” an important figure in Chinese government long after her husband’s death. Another daughter, May-ling, married Chiang Kai-shek, who led the Nationalist government. “Madame Chiang Kai-shek” was well known to Americans until her death in 2003. The Charlie Soong story is not new, but Haag has dug up new material, much of it from the Soong papers housed at the Duke University library. For instance, Haag explains better than earlier authors how Charlie Soong became so wealthy. Others have written how Soong’s missionary work led to a business of printing Bibles. His association with a flour mill in Shanghai contributed to his success. But, according to Haag, Soong’s greatest wealth came from his role as a “comprador,” a fixer and go-between helping western suppliers and traders and Chinese businesses deal with each other and their different customs and expectations. Those North Carolinians who already know about Charlie Soong will appreciate Haag’s refinements and additions. For those who never heard of Soong, Haag’s book is a great starting point. • D.G. Martin hosts “North Carolina Bookwatch,” which airs at 9:30 p.m. Fridays and at 5 p.m. Sundays on UNC-TV.
Letters to the Editor
Impeach ‘trigger-happy’ Trump to rein in military
In his final speech from the White House in January, 1961, President Dwight Eisenhower issued this dire warning: “In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists, and will persist.” I call on the GOP and all other political parties to follow Ike’s wise words and stop our “shoot first, ask questions later” tone and use diplomacy to save our nation and the rest of the world from ruination. Congress must rein in our military and the first step is to impeach our triggerhappy, seemingly looking for a fight, fake President Donald Trump! Herb Stark Mooresville
Participants in rally for Rep. Mark Meadows hailed
Thank you hardly seems enough to express appreciation for turning out for our super star, Congressman Mark Meadows. June 15th was especially fitting to say “thank you” in light of the horrific attack the day before. The deranged leftist shooter had a list of Freedom Caucus names on him during the attack. It’s beyond sickening. Please continue to let Mark know how much we appreciate him and the Freedom Caucus’ work on behalf of WE THE PEOPLE! Please, you need to join the army of activists across the country if we are to
restore our Republic and sanity. ‘The only thing for evil to take hold, is for good men and women to do nothing.” Hope to see many of you in the very near future. We have a tool kit for activism that needs your embrace! More to come! JANE BILELLO Hendersonville EDITOR’S NOTE: Bilello is chair of the Asheville Tea Party.
Trumped for truth? Be patient with president
I rise in the defense of our president, Don Trump. My purpose is to share a wider view as I see it. No major media source, no other candidates and few polls expected him to win. The powers that control/delete the message, run world affairs, run private space and terra based armies, operate both drug trades, the FED, the Vatican, Soros, the Bushes and many others who have contributed to the damn mess our world is in today didn’t expect him to win either. Trump ran a strategic campaign, securing the needed states to win. His current staff is still 75 percent-plus Obama hires, cabinet appointments have just been completed The misdirection of the Dems and the media toward Russia is to distract public attention from the criminal investigations of the DNC, 4 recent murders of professionals associated with same, a current in-house Pakistani spy ring and revelations that funds donated to Bernie instead went to Hillary’s camp (along with all the core data). Seth Rich leaked this data (not Russian hackers) to Wikileaks because he supported Bernie and saw the funds and data transfer happening, then he was murdered. See LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, Page A12
The Candid Conservative
America’s unique success equation
“The trust of the innocent is the liar’s most useful tool.” — Stephen King
The Problem
B
uncombe County’s Republican Party recently held an essay contest for Senior High students. The winner Ms. Samantha Grady, a product of home schooling, submitted an exceptional paper. If you’d like to read it, head on over to BuncombeGOP.org and check her out. You’ll be impressed. The subject of the contest represents about as pure a distillation of the Republican mission as one can find – “Why the American Success Equation Still Matters.” If you’re among the many who’ve never heard of the American Success Equation, today’s a good day. It may be the turningpoint when you decide you’ve had enough of Progressive-Liberal-Socialism silliness and are ready for something real. The American Success Equation is a simple formula: Liberty + Opportunity + Responsibility = Prosperity Therein lies the clandestine key to our country’s bright past. It’s preservation or betrayal will define our future. As a bonus, those looking for a political sincerity filter will find America’s Success Equation helpful in separating the good guys from the imposters. Mind if I put it to the test?
Totalitarianism
Doesn’t matter which flavor you pick, Communism, Fascism or Theocratism,
Carl Mumpower their equation for success is brutally devoted to subtraction: Responsibility – Opportunity – Liberty = Power Obviously, the despot’s mission is their own success, so doling out opportunity and liberty is counter-productive. Their passion is to load us up with heavy responsibility and subtract the rest of the equation – and then reverse the formula for themselves. Picture the private shops, limos and dachas for USSR proletariat members and the cheap vodka, canned beets and otherwise empty GUM shelves for the masses. Then ponder on the wealth of Cuba’s Castro Inc., amidst a population who can’t afford toilet paper. Every despot in history begins their mission of mischief by selling liberty and opportunity and minimizing responsibility. It’s such a consistent pattern that you can use the echo to spot the bad guys long before they’ve seized control. In the bitter end, they flip the burger. Unfortunately, in today’s America so many people have been raised on the theme of happy ever after, that a host of talented social manipulators are successfully selling the promise of something for nothing. “You mean that if I just vote for you I can ease up, get disability, retire or otherwise kick back and live on the graces of the state?” “Sign me up!” See CANDID CONSERVATIVE, Page A12
Asheville Daily Planet - July 2017 - A11
Commentary Ready for ‘daybreak’ in N.C.? Principles over politics
T
he morning sun has not yet risen in Raleigh, but the brightening sky gives us cause for hope, even belief, that it’s daybreak in North Carolina. The Great Darkness fell just before the 2010 election for the General Assembly, when Republicans corrupted our mailboxes with a million dollars’ worth of lying flyers. Their slime won. And we’ve had six years of GOP misrule. A poll taken last May by right-wing Civitas showed 47 percent of likely voters prefer a generic Democratic candidate to 33 percent who prefer a generic Republican. I have concerns about Democratic strategy, but it seems the voters are ready to reverse Republican malfeasance. They seized power in 2010 as respectable people – no, as righteous people – but immediately they showed themselves to be gangland thugs. When their first budget slashed funding for public education, the Speaker of the House told a gathering of teachers, “The message from the Legislature is clear–if you stand against cuts to public education, we will teach you a lesson.” Arrogance on top of greed and indifference. And they were naturals at it, weren’t they? When they drew boundaries for our 13 congressional districts, the guy in charge issued this criterion: create districts likely to elect 10 Republicans, three Democrat. When asked why he chose those numbers, he responded, “I do not believe it’s possible to draw a map with 11 Republicans and two Democrats.” Maps
Lee Ballard drawn for General Assembly districts gave the same lopsided numbers to Republicans. So they have no fear of the electorate. Heck, all legislative and congressional elections in the state are decided in advance. Voters might as well take the day off. But now the night is passing. Venus is shining bright in the east. Courts slapped down their voter-ID law, almost mocking them – how they brazenly requested data on differences in racial voting behavior and then designed their bill to inconvenience minorities. And courts have ordered redrawing of 28 legislative districts. They were sheltered from the voters but not from the courts. The U.S. Supreme Court has taken up a Wisconsin case that closely parallels North Carolina. It’s possible, if not likely, that the Justices will see outrageous gerrymandering as right and wrong, the massive and blatant nullification of citizens’ voting rights. They could set standards that will put an end to extreme political gerrymandering. That day – oh, that day – we will dance in the sunlight! Congressional and legislative districts will be competitive. Everybody’s vote will count.
Advice Goddess Continued from Page A1 For example, in their survey of people who’d recently gone through a breakup, “on days when participants reported having telephone or in-person contact with their former partner, they also reported more love and sadness.” It might help you to understand how adjusting to the new “no more him” thing works. In a serious relationship, your partner becomes a sort of emotional support animal -- the one you always turn to for affection, attention, and comforting. This habit of turning toward him gets written into your brain on a neural level, becoming increasingly automatic over time. Post-breakup, you turn and — oops — there’s no boo, only a faint dent in his side of the bed. Your job in healing is to get used to this change -- which you don’t do by having him keep popping up, messing with your new belief that he’s no longer available for emotional need-meeting. That’s why, in a situation like yours, breaking up with your boyfriend should work like breaking up with your couch. When the thing gets dropped off at the city dump, it stays there; you don’t come out on your porch the next morning to it saying, “Hey, babe…was in the neighborhood, so I thought I’d bring over some of your stuff — 36 cents, a pen cap, and this hair elastic.”
Mute emergency
I’m a single guy, and I just never know how to start conversations with girls. I have a sense of humor, but I’m bad at coming up with funny lines on the fly. I’ve thought of using a “line,” but if I were a girl, hearing one would just make me annoyed. Do you have any advice on good conversation starters? — Speechless
There’s a reason the line from that chick flick is “You had me at hello” and not “You had me at ‘Those jugs yours?’” Granted, it’s better if you can be funny when hitting on girls. Evolutionary psychologist Geoffrey Miller believes “humor production ability” is a “hard-to-fake” sign of intelligence in a potential partner. Research by Miller and others suggests he’s right — finding correlations between humor and “verbal creativity” and intelligence. But note “hard-to-fake.” Trying to be funny when you aren’t all that funny is about as successful a tactic as trying to remove someone’s appendix when you aren’t really a doctor. However, even if you aren’t naturally funny, what you can be is genuine. To do this, just say something — perhaps about something in the environment. Ask about that book she’s carrying or whether she’s survived the vegan Reuben. Maybe comment on the attire of the two armed men running out of the place with a bag of money. Just saying something is basically like opening a tiny door to see whether anything’s behind it. If a woman finds you attractive, she’ll pick up and respond — and probably not by announcing that if you were the last man on earth, she’d develop a sexual attraction to trees. • (c.) 2017, Amy Alkon, all rights reserved. Got a problem? Write Amy Alkon, 171 Pier Ave, #280, Santa Monica, CA 90405, or e-mail AdviceAmy@aol. com.
Voters will decide elections, not the cheating map-makers. Elected officials will be accountable. And when that happens, the voters will remember. Oh yes, they will remember Republican self-serving. All the deadheads who went along with their leadership will face the people in a fair contest. Signs, like the Civitas poll, are favorable. And we see Democrats making moves. Candidates are announcing in districts that are impossible now – districts that might have entirely different boundaries this time next year after districts are redrawn. But I have concerns. I love the signs at rallies that say, “Public Schools Matter” and “No More Tax Cuts for the Rich” and others that focus on RESTORING THE GREATNESS OF North Carolina before the GOP era. That’s our message – more than the Bernie Sanders sky-pie or the past-tense issues. LGBT don’t need to press for more. And the guns issue has to wait for the American public to reach a conclusion, like they did on LGBT. And extremes with “pro-choice” is not wise. I don’t think most people in North Carolina believe that Democrats would govern differently from how Republicans have governed. We ARE different, and we should make the differences very explicit. Like this: “If the people of North Carolina entrust us with their legislature, WE COMMIT OURSELVES TO BE OPEN IN OUR LEGISLATIVE PROCESSES, INCLUSIVE WITH REPUBLICANS, NEVER TAKING AC-
TIONS DESIGNED TO ENTRENCH US IN POWER. WHEN WE REDISTRICT AFTER THE 2020 CENSUS, WE WILL CREATE DISTRICTS WHERE YOUR VOTE COUNTS.” I think our candidates are will run precisely to take back North Carolina for principles of good and right, not politics. Let this be their message. • Lee Ballard, who lives in Mars Hill, writes a blog at mountainsnail.com.
LETTERS The Asheville Daily Planet invites Letters to the Editor of 200 words or less. Please include your name, mailing address, daytime telephone number and e-mail address. For more information, call (828) 252-6565. Send mail to: Letters, Asheville Daily Planet P.O. Box 8490, Asheville, NC 28814 Send e-mail to: letters@ashevilledailyplanet.com
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A12 — July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Candid Conservative
Continued from Page A10 There’s only one antidote to despotism – more patriots resisting and protecting than bad guys pushing and seducing. Don’t believe for a minute that the wrong side can’t win in America. We have no natural immunity from stupidity.
Liberalism
The left is the most visibly dominant movement in today’s America. Asheville offers stark testimony on their misguided capacity to victimize the innocent by cherry picking America’s traditional success formula. Liberals like the idea of liberty – sort of. They’re good with intercepting the unborn, getting stoned, swapping genders or training girls to be sex toys for little boys. It’s downhill from there. Liberals hate thinking that differs from their own, private property rights, financial independence, and anything else that echoes the conservative ideal of big people and little government. If you’re skeptical, take a look at about any local, state or national regulation you bump into – odds are a liberal politician or bureaucrat made it happen. Liberals are 50-50 on liberty – 100 percent behind opportunity. That’s a good thing. Liberals are good at pushing the doors open to new possibilities and that’s a big part of the attractiveness of the movement. Unfortunately, the left’s indifference to attaching responsibility to that opportunity insures a never-ending cycle of failure. It’s sort of like having the freedom and opportunity to jump out of an airplane but no instruction on the importance of strapping on a parachute. Liberalism sells because it suggests the
promise of something for nothing. You get a little freedom and a lot of opportunity without matching accountability. If this formula sounds a lot like the Snow White – Sleeping Beauty fairytales of old, it’s because the left has stolen and refreshed those tired old scripts to modern purpose. That makes them smart and smarmy, not right. Happy ever after doesn’t exist. Yet with unwavering consistency one can listen to any liberal politician – Hillary Clinton being the perfected state of the art – and find all the elements of fantasy. The American Success Equation efficiently confronts their lack of realism.
Libertarianism
Libertarians are one of the groups Buncombe County Republicans refer to as our “partners in good governance.” We like Libertarians because, well, they like liberty – and walk their talk in preserving it better than any political movement in America. As you might expect. Libertarians also believe in opportunity. Who doesn’t like desert? It’s with the last piece of the equation, responsibility, that Libertarians lose some traction. Though they speak to the importance of personal accountability, it’s more of a philosophical reflection that studied dedication. Case in point – the Libertarian passion for legalizing drugs. Dare to challenge a Libertarian on the reality of legalization versus the wishful thinking, and you’re likely to get conked on the head with a duck taped bong. Libertarians don’t have an answer to what happens to the swollen masses of addicted people no longer capable of selfcare. Do we send them out to the woods
to die? Of course not. By skipping the accountability component of legalization, you and I are left with the bill and headaches from those who inevitably fail in finding a pharmaceutical shortcut around Mother Nature’s demands. Libertarians and conservatives have a lot in common. These freedom-lovers just need some work on that responsibility thing.
Conservatism
Conservatives get an A+ on the American Success Equation. That’s why more and more young people are instinctively migrating to the right. Conservatives cling to liberty as we seize upon opportunity and embrace responsibility. We understand that prosperity in a hard world is hard won and there are no shortcuts. That resonates with people who like to live in the real world. Yes, we recognize there are some movements suggesting it’s ok to skip one or more steps in what is arguably nature’s success equation, but we know better. Conservatives comprehend that dreams add seasoning to life – but it’s in reaching for reality that we find the meat and potatoes.
Opportunism
There’s another political group that may be the largest secret society in America. These are the folks who imagine they can pick and choose which parts of the equation they wish to squeeze. These people treat America as a cheap steakhouse buffet. Noble people have never been in a majority anywhere on our fallen planet. America is not an exception. There will always be those who see life as an opportunity to take over give and exploit America’s Success Equation to their own advantage. Note the unsustainable expansion of food stamps, disability and other entitlements
Letters to the editor
able to eradicate it. They do lead most huContinued from Page A10 JFK was not able to shatter and scatter all mans down the “broad…way” that leads to destruction! Jesus Christ, who is, “the way, the pieces to the wind. Trump graduated from Wharton Business the truth, and the life,” said, few (a small percentage) will follow the “narrow…way” School, has an estimated IQ over 150 and that leads to eternal life. yes, has a huge ego and bad manners and I Most of us have failed Jesus’ comdo call him the “Cheeto Messiah” somemand to take up the cross and follow him. times. Through ages we let the unbelievers attack His style often follows Sun Tzu with misdirection and media bait to provide cover for the Word of God and its truth, unopposed. We let our “one nation under God” become his efforts to right a wobbling ship. a nation of many idol gods and atheists. A The establishment of alternative trade former president very proudly declared that routes with China and Russia is due to the (in different words) and the silence was USA about to lose the petro-dollar status, deafening. with massive inflation and market collapse America’s educational institutions first soon to follow. started by recognizing the truth of the Word Trump inherited a world in trouble and of God and taught the Holy Bible. They we here in the USA are less than 90 days knew that by following God the nation away from the mother of all economic would be blessed, and were prompt to give meltdowns, all that credit bought for the God the credit. past 60-plus years. Historically, our founding fathers, and Worldwide, this is a time when all that future leaders, proudly gave thanks to which was hidden will now be revealed. The God in their letters and public statements. veil is slowly being lifted. We are not alone, Unfortunately, our nation no longer teaches never were. I believe our nation will be stronAmerican history as they should. ger and wiser after ... we grow up. See LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, Page A14 For now, make a PACT with the world and let it guide your thoughts… Patience, Acceptance, Compassion and Insurance • Lightning Rods • Fruit Trees Trust. Namaste. Advice• Nails • Fish Bait • Whiskey • Manure WILLIAM. S. Chalk Fly Swatters• Lard • Bibles • Buggy Whips Asheville
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under the Obama administration. Largesse with other people’s money is the mark of a political predator, not a benefactor. Real leaders recognize that making people increasingly reliant on government handouts robs them of their dignity and secures a cycle of hostility and misery inevitably linked to dependency. There are a million ways to exploit America’s Success Equation and conceal the action. In the end though, skipping any piece of the puzzle is like using cheap paint. It might look good going on, but it will not stand the test of time.
Political reset
If you’re one of those with an internal conscience that won’t let you sacrifice truth to habit, comfort or interpersonal safety, you might find solace in the American Success Equation. Its reliability matches that of gravity. Please don’t take offense as I share that if you buy into this thinking, you’re a conservative – closeted or otherwise. As such you are the 21st century’s version of a non-conformist. The left long ago surrendered their non-conformist credentials to a convoluted version of conventionality. For conformation of such, witness their fury when they encounter opposition thinking. Please email me when you come all the way out – there’s lots we can do together…. • Carl Mumpower, a psychologist and former elected official, is chairman of the Buncombe County Republican Party. He can be reached at drmumpower@aol.com.
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Asheville Daily Planet — July 2017 — A13
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A14 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Letters to the editor
Continued from Page A12 Now the word “God” is hardly ever seen or heard anywhere. Most of our news and entertaining media is now anti-God, anti-Christ and antiChristian. They believe the Holy Bible and God a myth. They control most organizations and promote things that go against God’s com-
mandments and wishes. Because God made us in his image and gave us life and unconditional love, He wants our love, respect, and obedience, in return. He wants us to love one another and live peaceful productive lives. He gives eternal life to those who seek and follow Him.... Manuel Ybarra Jr Coalgate, Okla.
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A16 — July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
Entertainment & Calendar of Events
Special Section PULLOUT
B1
Asheville Daily Planet — July 2017
Don Henley/Phil Collins salute leaves crowd begging for more
By JOHN NORTH
john@AshevilleDailyPlanet.com
HENDERSONVILLE — The tribute concert, “The Music of Don Henley and Phil Collins,” proved to be a crowd-pleaser during the June 3 performance at Flat Rock Playhouse’s downtown Hendersonville stage. “Easy Lover,” the regular show’s fiery finale, had the audience of — maybe — 200 on its feet, requesting an encore for the production that ran June 1-11. (The venue has a seating capacity of 250.) The band made motions to leave the stage, but, as the audience cheered wildly, its members stood still, smiling and absorbing the adulation. After a pause, the band shifted its musical motor into overdrive to perform the heartfelt ballad, “Desperado,” a 1973 hit by the Eagles. It was the first song that Henley and Glenn Frey had written together. As a duo, they went on to write many other major songs for The Eagles. “Desperado” was the only Eagles’ song played during the tribute show. The other Henley songs performed in the show were from his solo career after leaving the Eagles. Photo courtesy of FLAT ROCK PLAYHOUSE As “Desperado” wound to a close, the Lead singers in “The Music of Don Henley and Phil Collins” show at Flat Rock crowd — once again — stood, cheered Playhouse’s Hendersonville venue were Aaron LaVigne (left) and Dustin Brayley. and clapped en masse and was rewarded with Collins’ version of The Supremes’ Henley “is most known for his time as Guerra, bass; and Paul Babelay, drums. up-tempo classic, “You Can’t Hurry Moss also served as music director — a the lead vocalist for The Eagles, but has Love.” (The second encore song was unworked with all many of musicians, includ- job in which he excelled — for the show. usual, in that FRP tribute bands typically Both Brayley and LaVigne were spoting Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt and play just one encore song.) on with the lead vocals — and the harmoStevie Nicks, along with having his own The crowd remained standing through- successful solo career,” FRP stated. “He’s nies by those two and others in the band out the performance of the Motown claswere, at times, celestial. Also impressive been nominated for nearly 20 Grammy sic, many of them swaying to the bouncy was the musicianship of the band members. Awards and has won three including Best music, while roughly 20 people seized Others contributing to the top-notch Rock Male Vocalist for ‘Dirty Laundry’ and the opportunity to rush from their seats to ‘The End of the Innocence.’ show were Adam Goodrum, production manager; C.J Barnwell, lighting designer; the open area in front of the band, where “Phil Collins began as the drummer and Kurt Conway, sound designer. they danced joyously. for Genesis and stepped up as the lead While the show was stellar, a few minor When “You Can’t Hurry Love” ended, vocalist when Peter Gabriel left the band. adjustments could have made it even better. the crowd applauded and some pleaded Collins then went solo and has received For instance, someone overseeing the concert for yet another encore, but the house numerous awards, including seven lights were turned up, the band bowed in Grammy Awards, an Academy Award and either should have had Brayley and LaVigne, who served as emcees, practice their jokes unison, thanked the audience for its suptwo Golden Globes,” FRP noted. and stories in rehearsal. Instead, some of the port and, this time, left the stage. The show’s high-octane band included jokes fell embarrassingly flat, especially about Henley and Collins, both of whom Dustin Brayley, lead vocals and rhythm wearing “man buns.” And some stories they are dynamic drummers as well as stellar guitar; Aaron LaVigne, lead vocals told were imprecise or confusing. singers-songerwriters, were billed by FRP and drums; Will Moss, synthesizer and in a press release as “1970s’ rock legends.” back-up vocals; Bill Altman, guitar; Ryan See HENLEY-COLLINS, Page B7
Shelley Wright
Bigfoot researchers receive more support
than magical community
I
have noticed an interesting phenomenon. As most of you know, not only do I straddle the world of the living and of the dead, I also straddle the scientific world of paranormal research and those of magic and magical systems. Now, you would think that with all the interest and buzz the world of the paranormal gets with its TV and radio shows and Internet podcasts that it must be cutthroat. It may very well be. But with very few exceptions, the actual people who investigate are dedicated to finding the truth and are incredibly supportive of one another. Perhaps that’s why you see so much crossover in the ghost-hunting shows. Someone may have worked with someone else on another show, or they met through another investigator or while working at a convention like DragonCon. You develop a rapport. Or you started out with them and are familiar with their investigation style and have already developed a trust that they’ll watch your back in frightening investigations and not run screaming into the night, leaving you to deal with some scary discarnate being. And you know they’ll be truthful about the evidence they gathered and their personal stories. And they’re always helping each other out. I was once interviewed by a women’s studies group from a local Asheville university for their senior research project. The interview turned out really well except for one thing. They tried their best to get me to say that I was suppressed or held back or treated unfairly in such an overwhelmingly male field. Truth is, I’m treated better in this field than any other I’ve worked in. Ever. I have received nothing but unconditional support and respect. With every fun and chilling story I related about my past investigations and experiences, the college ladies looked more and more sad and disappointed. See WRIGHT, Page B6
Nick Cave & Bad Seeds? Dark, irreverent, fiery By JOHN NORTH
john@AshevilleDailyPlanet.com
Special Photo by DEBBIE DELL
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds perform June 7 in Asheville.
The Australian rock band Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds — blasting away with sometimes brooding and bleak songs that, at times, escalated into an electrifying din — cast its black magic at a June 7 concert on a fired-up audience that filled all 2,300 seats in downtown Asheville’s Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. As New Musical Express magazine said so well of the band’s critically acclaimed 2008 album, “Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!” (inspired by the biblical story of the resurrection of Lazarus of Bethany by Jesus
Christ), it features the sound of a “gothic psycho-sexual apocalypse” featuring punk and garage rock-inspired arrangements. That description certainly would apply to its repertoire at its Asheville show. The one-set, 100-minute concert ended with the audience cheering for an encore — and the band leaving the stage. After five minutes of the crowd’s cheers and demands for more music, the Bad Seeds returned to the stage for an extended series of encore songs that lasted for about 30 minutes. Before launching into his first extra song, Cave teased the crowd, saying, “I’m sorry! I am really sorry! You’re only supposed to see the show once!” See NICK CAVE, Page B7
B2 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet
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The group Southern Culture on the Skids will perform at 7 p.m. July 17 in the Concerts on the Quad summer series on the Quad at UNC Asheville.
Calendar
of
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Events
Send us your calendar items
Please submit items to the Calendar of Events by noon on the third Wednesday of each month, via e-mail, at calendar@ashevilledailyplanet. com, or fax to 252-6567, or mail c/o The Daily Planet, P.O. Box 8490, Asheville, N.C. 288148490. Submissions will be accepted and printed at the discretion of the editor, space permitting. To place an ad for an event, call 252-6565.
Saturday, July 1
“ANNIE” SHOW, 2 and 7:30 p.m., mainstage, Flat Rock Playhouse, Flat Rock. “Annie,” billed as a “one of the best family musicals ever written,” will be performed through July 2. Showtimes vary. For tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org. LESLIE JONES COMEDY SHOW, 7:30 p.m., Event Center, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, Cherokee. Comedian Leslie Jones will perform. For tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, or call (800) 745-3000.
Sunday, July 2
JAZZ CONCERT, 3 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 587 Haywood Rd., West Asheville. The Asheville Jazz Orchestra will perform classic hits from the World War II era in ““An All-American Big Band Jazz Concert.” Admission is free.
Monday, July 3
SHAWN CAMP CONCERT, 8 p.m., Cataloochee Ranch, 19 Ranch Drive, Cataloochee. Shawn Camp, lead singer for The Earls of Leicester, will perform in the Music at the Ranch 2017 summer series. He is billed as writing top 10 hits for Nashville superstars. For tickets, which are $35, call 926-1401. LAKE LURE FIREWORKS SHOW, 8 p.m., public beach and Morse Meadows, Lake Lure. Lake Lure will celebrate Independence Day (a day early) with a free fireworks show, visible from the town’s beach or Morse Meadows — or from a boat near Marina Bay.
Tuesday, July 4
Classes, workshops & readings coming soon! Visit Twitter & our Facebook page often for the latest news, events & updates. Just arrived: Firecracker Block Buster Candles!
BREVARD INDEPENDENCE DAY GALA/FIREWORKS, 9 a.m.-10 p.m., downtown Brevard. An arts and crafts and auto show will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed at 9:30 p.m. by fireworks. LAKE JUNALUSKA INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE/EVENTS, 11 a.m,-10 p.m., Lake Junaluska. Fourth of July events will begin at 11 a.m. with a parade proceeding along North Lakeshore Drive, followed deom noon to 2 p.m. by a barbecue picnic in Nanci Weldon Gym. At 1:30 p.m., a square dance will be held in the gym. At 7:30 p.m., the Lake Junaluska Singers will perform in Stuart Auditorium, followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m. All of the activities are free, except the picnic, for which the charge is $9 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-11 and free for ages 3 and under. ASHEVILLE INDEPENDENCE DAY GALA, 2-10 p.m., Pack Square Park, downtown Asheville. Asheville Downtown Association will host a Fourth of July celebration featuring family activities throughout the day, capped with a fireworks extravaganza at 9:30 p.m. Ultimate air dogs’ competitions, as well as children’s activities and
“bouncy houses,” will be offered from 2 to 6 p.m. Stage entertainment featuring local talent will begin at 5 p.m. The musical headliner will be the Mark O’Connor Band, which recently won a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album. Beer, cider, wine and water will available for purchase. Vendors will sell food. No outside alcohol, pets or vending will be permitted. Attendees are urged to bring a lawnchair and/or blanket. BLACK MOUNTAIN STREET DANCE/FIREWORKS, 5:30-9:30 p.m., downtown Black Mountain. Black Mountain will hold its annual OldFashioned Family Fun Day to celebrate the Fourth of July, with a street dance featuring the 96.5 House Band, as well as free family events, including activities for kids, as well as food vendors. The gala will conclude with fireworks at dusk. HENDERSONVILLE MUSIC ON MAIN FOURTH OF JULY CONCERT/DANCE/FIREWORKS, 7-9 p.m., outside of Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The annual Music on Main Street summer concert series will feature an Independence Day special show featuring the Asheville-based soul band Westsound, along with a patriotic tribute, followed — at dusk — by fireworks. In addition, many in the crowd dance in a large roped-off area in front of the stage. Attendees are urged to bring chairs and/or blankets. Admission to the concert and car show is free. WEAVERVILLE INDEPENDENCE DAY GALA, 7-10 p.m., Lake Louise Park, Weaverville. The Town of Weaverville will present Fire on the Lake 2017, a Fourth of July celebration that will feature Joe Lasher Jr. as the featured entertainer, preceded by Ashley Heath, who will open the musical portion of the event. Other highlights will include, food, vendors and family fun. Fireworks will be staged at 10 p.m. Admission is free.
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Thursday, July 6
PRITCHARD PARK CONCERT SERIES, 6-8 p.m., Pritchard Park, downtown Asheville. Ian Rindenhour will perform in the Pritchard Park Singer-Songwriter Series, Admission is free. PARK RHYTHMS CONCERT SERIES, 7-9 p.m., Lake Tomahawk, Black Mountain. The band Crooked Pine will perform mountain music in the weekly Park Rhythms concert series. Attendees are urged to bring lawnchairs and/or blankets. Admission is free.
Friday, July 7
MUSIC ON MAIN STREET CONCERT/DANCE, 7-9 p.m., outside of Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The annual Music on Main Street summer concert series will feature the band Wishful Thinkin’. In addition, many in the crowd dance in a large roped-off area in front of the stage. Attendees are urged to bring chairs and/ or blankets. A classic car show also will be held along the street adjoining the concert area. Admission to the concert and car show is free. “THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB” SHOW, 2 and 7:30 p.m., mainstage, Flat Rock Playhouse, Flat Rock. “The Dixie Swim Club,” billed as a “a hilarious and touching comedy” about five Southern women who prove that their friendship can last forever, will be performed July 7-22. Showtimes vary. For tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org.
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Asheville Daily Planet - July 2017 - B3
Introductory Ballroom Dance Lessons
1st 30-minute lesson for
$25
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The iconic rhythm and blues groups Kool & The Gang (above) and The Commodores (right) will perform in an outdoor concert at 7:30 p.m. July 27 on the South Terrace of the Biltmore House in the 21st annual Biltmore Concert Series.
Package discounts available
Calendar of Events Continued from Page B2
Monday, July 10
CONCERTS ON THE QUAD,, 7-8:30p.m., Quad, UNC Asheviille. The summer Concerts on the Quad outdoor series will featiure Flood: Electric Herbie Hancock Tribute. Attendees are urged to bring blankets and/or chairs. Admission is free.
Thursday, July 13
PRITCHARD PARK CONCERT SERIES, 6-8 p.m., Pritchard Park, downtown Asheville. The band Tina and Her Pony will perform in the Pritchard Park Singer-Songwriter Series. Admission is free. PARK RHYTHMS CONCERT SERIES, 7-9 p.m., Lake Tomahawk, Black Mountain. The James Hammel Quartet will perform jazz, pop blues and originals in the weekly Park Rhythms concert series. Attendees are urged to bring lawnchairs and/or blankets. Admission is free.
Friday, July 14
BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION, 11:30 a.m., Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, 223 W. State St., Black Mountain. The SVM&HC Book Club will meet to discuss Forrest Carter’s 1976 work, “The Education of Little Tree.” All are welcome to attend. Admission is free. MUSIC ON MAIN STREET CONCERT/DANCE,
7-9 p.m., outside of Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The annual Music on Main Street summer concert series will feature the 96.5 House Band. In addition to watching, many in the crowd dance in a large roped-off area in front of the stage. Attendees are urged to bring chairs and/or blankets. A classic car show also will be held along the street adjoining the concert area. Admission to the concert and car show is free. “TARZAN, THE BROADWAY MUSICAL” SHOW, 7:30 p.m., Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin. “Tarzan, the Broadway Musical” will be presented July 14, 15, 21 and 22. For tickets, which are $17 for adutls and $12 for students, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com. MOVIES IN THE PARK, dusk, Pack Square Park, downtown Asheville.The film “Up” will be shown in the Movies in the Park summer series. Attendees are urged to bring blankets and/or lawnchairs. Admission is free.
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Monday, July 17
CONCERT ON THE QUAD,, 7-8:30p.m., Quad, UNC Asheviille. The summer Concerts on the Quad outdoor series will feature the band Southern Culture on the Skids. The group, which originated in Chapel Hill in the early 1980s, features what it terms “a greasy mix of surf, rockabilly, R&B, and country-fried garage with a side of psych.” Attendees are urged to bring banks and/or chairs. Admission is free.
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Calendar
PARK RHYTHMS CONCERT SERIES, 7-9 p.m., Lake Tomahawk, Black Mountain. The ZuZu Welsh Band will perform classic and dance rock music in the weekly Park Rhythms concert series. Attendees are urged to bring lawnchairs and/or blankets. Admission is free. KOOL & THE GANG/COMMODORES CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., South Terrace, Biltmore House, Asheville. Two classic rhythm and blues groups, Kool & The Gang and The Commodores, will perform in the 21st annual Biltmore Concert Series. For tickets, which are $71 for general admission, $81 for reserved seating and $96 for premium seats, visit biltmore.com.
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Thursday, July 20
PRITCHARD PARK CONCERT SERIES, 6-8 p.m., Pritchard Park, downtown Asheville. SIYAH will perform in the Pritchard Park Singer-Songwriter Series. Admission is free. RHYTHM & BREWS CONCERT, 7-9 p.m., Main Street (between Caswell and Allen streets), downtown Hendersonville. The summer Rhythm & Brews outdoor concert series will headline The Steel Wheels, billed as “one of the great Americana acts touring today.” Earlier, from 5 to 7 p.m., local singers-songwriters and opening acts will perform. The event also will showcase local brews. Admission is free. PARK RHYTHMS CONCERT SERIES, 7-9 p.m., Lake Tomahawk, Black Mountain. The band Dark Water Rising will perform soul music in the weekly Park Rhythms concert series. Attendees are urged to bring lawnchairs and/or blankets. Admission is free.
Friday, July 21
DOWNTOWN AFTER 5 CONCERT, 5-9 p.m., North Lexington Avenue (near the I-240 overpass, downtown Asheville. The DA5 summer outdoor concert series will feature — at 7 p.m. — the headliner band, the Asheville All-Stars, which will treat the audience to a mix of original songs and fun covers that, in past years, has had the audience singing along. Opening at 5 p.m. is Asheville’s Rock Academy, which will feature its students performing a set to show off the talent of local youngsters. Admission is free. MUSIC ON MAIN STREET CONCERT/DANCE, 7-9 p.m., outside of Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The annual Music on Main Street summer concert series will feature the band Rock and Roll Reunion. In addition, many in the crowd dance in a large roped-off area in front of the stage. Attendees are urged to bring chairs and/or blankets. A classic car show also will be held along the street adjoining the concert area. Admission to the concert and car show is free.
Saturday, July 22
GLOBAL THREATS SEMINAR, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (doors open at 8 a.m.), Shackford Hall, Lake Junaluska. A one-day seminar on “Threats and Solutions in Today’s World” will feature Alan Kay as the keynote speaker. Kay, who will be addressing personal preparedness, is billed as the winner of the History Channel’s television series “Alone” and is touted as “a survivalist superstar.” Among the other speakers are Dr. William Forstchen, Scott Hunt,
Wright
Continued from Page B1 I told those women what I would tell anyone in any field: treat yourself and others with respect and give credit where it’s due. The only women not treated this way are the ones who don’t respect themselves. Therefore, they don’t respect other people. I can’t say the same for the magical community and that saddens me. I don’t know if it’s that we’re innately cautious about what we reveal about ourselves, or if we have a lack of trust for everyone. You would think after all the horrible things that have happened to people throughout history, and even in this modern age we live in now, that we would treat each other with kindness and be supportive of one another. I’ve heard first-hand accounts of new age shops making fun of customers who pray and use crystals and herbs in their spiritual practices. The woman who related this particular story to me was kind and educated and accomplished. But they didn’t know that. She was new to the area and was singled out and treated horribly. By gosh, if the paranormal community can treat those who research cryptids, that is, creatures who may or may not exist, like Bigfoot or that Mexican goat sucker, the chupacabra, with dignity and respect, then the magical community can
Friday, July 28 Beach Boys website photo
The iconic rock group The Beach Boys will perform outside at 7:30 p.m. July 30 on the South Terrace of the Biltmore House in Asheville as part of the 21st annual Biltmore Concert Series. Dietrich Easter, Tom Glance and Mr. Mad Mick. Hunt will review basics of water retrieval and basic solar. Forstchen will address “Threats.” Glance will tell what one needs to carry in his car at all times. Dietrich (aka “Skinny Medic”) will cover basic medical. As for Mr. Mad Mick, “we never know what he will come up with,” the event organizers quipped. The event is billed as an opportuity to “learn what is going on that the mainstream media isn’t telling you.” Attendees are urged to ““bring family and neighbors that need to know the basics of how to be prepared in emergency situations.” Also, special classes for children may be offered. Attendees may bring their own lunches, or order a box lunch of ham or turkey sandwiches, chips, Alan Kay cookie and drink for $11.25. Deadline for ordering box lunches is July 11. For tickets, visit www.carolinareadiness.com, or visit the event sponsor, Carolina Readiness Supply at 72 Montgomery St., Waynesville. CONCERTS IN THE PARK SERIES, 7-9 p.m., Cecil Park (in front of Hickory Tavern and Brixx Wood Fired Pizza), Biltmore Park, South Asheville. The band Terri Lynn Queen Bee and the Stingers will perform in a free outdoor concert.
breakfast at 7:30 a.m., a panel discussion of “How Will Asheville Grow Thoughtfully? The Public Sector Response” at 8 a.m., followed by a question-andanswer session. The program will end promptly at 9:15 a.m. The moderator will be William Sederburg, retired univerity president and former Michigan state senator. The panelists will include Stephanie Brown, senior vice president of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and executive director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau; Esther Manheimer, Asheville mayor; Darin Waters, UNCA’s special assistant to the chancellor for community outreach and engagement; and Al Whitesides, Buncombe County commissioner, civil rights activist and retired banker. Admission, incliuding breakfast, is $20.
Thursday, July 27
PRITCHARD PARK CONCERT SERIES, 6-8 p.m., Pritchard Park, downtown Asheville. Sarah Tucker will perform in the Pritchard Park Singer-Songwriter Series, Admission is free. FOLKMOOT SHOW, 7 p.m., Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin. The Folkmoot show will be performed.. For tickets, which are $21, $26 and $31. For tickets, visit www. greatmountainmusic.com.
“JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT” SHOW, 2 and 7:30 p.m., mainstage, Flat Rock Playhouse, Flat Rock. “Joseph and the Amazing Dreamcoat” show, billed as an “irresistible, family-friendly” reimagining of the biblical story of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son, will be performed July 28-Aug. 20. The show features “an infectious and unforgettable score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice,” FRP noted. Showtimes vary. For tickets, visit www.flatrockplayhouse.org. MUSIC ON MAIN STREET CONCERT/DANCE, 7-9 p.m., outside of Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. The annual Music on Main Street summer concert series will feature the Hendersonville-based dance band Deano & the Dreamers. The group plays hits from the 1950s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s as well as “the standards.” In addition to watching, many in the crowd dance in a large roped-off area in front of the stage. Attendees are urged to bring chairs and/or blankets. A classic car show also will be held along the street adjoining the concert area. Admission to the concert and car show is free. THE COASTERS CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin. The Coasters, an iconic rhythm and blues group, will perform in concert. For tickets, which are $22 and $18. For tickets, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com.
Sunday, July 30
BEACH BOYS CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., South Terrace, Biltmore House, Asheville. The iconic California rock band, The Beach Boys, will perform in the 21st annual Biltmore Concert Series. For tickets, which are $55 for general admission, $65 for reserved seating and $80 for premium seats, visit biltmore.com.
Wednesday, July 26
BUZZ BREAKFAST/PROGRAM, 8 a.m., Expo Center, Crowne Plaza Resort, West Asheville. UNC Asheville’s Buzz Breakfast series will begin with
do the same! I see dishonesty, backbiting, infighting, even treachery. A dark cloud has fallen over Asheville. But I have a friend who is convinced that Asheville takes care of her own and runs those who would do it or its people harm right out of town! I’m good with that. Luckily, not everyone is like that. I have and continue meet genuinely good souls who walk many different magical paths. You will notice them by their random acts of kindness, the smiles and hugs they bestow upon you and the genuine interest they take in what you do. Be on the lookout for these people. They always build you up. They never tear you down or ridicule you or tell you their way is the only way. And if you don’t know who to go to or whom you can trust, ask someone else that you do trust. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or admit that you don’t know something. We’re all learning here. You may ask something so profound that it changes the way we look at everything. That’s a good thing! • Shelley Wright, an Asheville native, is a paranormal investigator. She owns and runs Nevermore Mystical Arts shop and works at Wright’s Coin Shop, both in Asheville. Wright also is a weekly participant in the “Speaking of Strange” radio show from 9 p.m. to midnight on most Saturdays on Asheville’s WWNC-AM (570).
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Henley-Collins
Continued from Page B1 In addition, it would have been better if they had told a bit more about Henley and Collins, so that audience members would leave knowing. Instead, they told too much about themselves and the tribute band and not enough about those they were saluting. Other areas for improvement would be to work more on the choreography, as the two lead singers seemed to just wing it, sometimes awkwardly, as they performed — side-by-side — center-stage. For instance, on one song they each stood and snapped their fingers to the music — and it could have been choreographed for maximum impact, if they had stood together and snapped together . Also, at least three of the band members wore black pants and shirts, while two wore light-color clothes. The effect was that it must have been an oversight, as it would have looked snappier for all of the band members to wear black. The show opened with a definitive bang with two Collins’ hits, “In the Air Tonight,” followed by “Two Hearts.” The crowd was fired up from the beginning and clapped and cheered enthusiastically after virtually every song in the show. On “In the Air Tonight,” the effect was stunning as co-lead vocalists Brayley and LaVigne sang the first part of the song, with electronic drum programmed in, and then LaVigne suddenly dramatically dashing back to the drums and putting down a mighty beat that could have propelled him and his band into the stratosphere. The crowd cheered. Next, the band performed Henley’s “All She Wants to Do Is Dance,” Collins’ “One More Night” and then two Henley hits — “The Last Worthless Evening” and “The End of Innocence.” At that point, the tribute group played the band Genesis’ “That’s All” to honor Collins’ years with the Genesis, prior to going solo. The 45-minute first set ended on a high note with Collins’ “Sussodio.” Following an 18-minute break, the band launched into its second and final set with Henley’s “Boys of Summer,” followed by three Collins’ songs — “Another Day in Paradise,” “A Groovy Kind of Love” and “Against All Odds” — and two Henley songs — “The Heart of the Matter” and “Easy Lover.” Of the aforementioned songs, especially memorable was LaVigne’s story preceding “The Last Worthless Evening,” when he told about Henley spotting gorgeous actress Michelle Pheiffer across the room at a party. Henley felt intimidated by the actress’ beauty, LaVigne said, but decided to approach her anyway. Walking up to Pheiffer, Henley could not think of anything to say, so he asked her if she had a cigarette. Wordlessly, Pheiffer flicked the cigarette butt in her hand at him and walked away. According to LaVigne’s story, actor Jack Nickolson, who was standing nearby and saw the action, mumbled, “Way to go, Henley!” Perhaps the most hauntingly pretty song of the night was Collins’ version of “A Groovy Kind of Love.” For its next Music on the Rock tribute concert, Aug. 3-13, the playhouse will feature “Motown Summer Nights.” Other upcoming tribute shows include “The Music of Lionel Richie and Diana Ross,” Sept. 28-Oct. 8; and “August 1969: The Women of Woodstock,” Oct. 26-Nov. 4.
Nick Cave
Continued from Page B1 The four-song encore began with “Weeping Song,” followed by the band’s cover of Lloyd Price’s 1959 No. 1 hit “Stagger Lee,” which, arguably, triggered the biggest audience response of the night. Another notable encore number was “Push the Sky Away,” during which Cave urged the audience members to “just keep on pushing,” apparently meaning that they need to stay the course through these challenging times. After the final encore song, the group left the stage for good, leaving the crowd on its feet, shouting for more songs. Most of the adoring (dare I say fanatical?) audience — mainly comprised of 20- and 30-somethings, but with a sizable contingent of older fans, remained standing for the charismatic Cave, who probably deserves more kudos for his showmanship and connective capability with his audience than for his vocals. Cave, the group’s lead singer and front-man — clad in a black suit and a white shirt — emulated, at various times, a crazed televangelist, an undertaker and even a vampire. Cave invoked in his lyrics references to Jesus, Satan, Lucifer and the devil, in his existential wailings. His mostly dark, gloomy songs were accentuated throughout the concert by a wispy fog (emitted from a fog machine), along with a highly effective light show. Yet, as many of his seemingly empathetic fans would know, at least soome of Cave’s rather often-dirge-like music likely is channeling his angst from the 2015 death of his teenage son Arthur. The June 7 concert constituted the second appearance for the Bad Seeds in Asheville. The band played at The Orange Peel on Biltmore Avenue about four years ago. As the pre-show music cranked up, dozens of audience members from all over the auditorium crowded into the area in front of the stage. Clad in trim black suits, the band took the stage, led by multi-instrumentalist and composer Warren Ellis, noted for his long beard. Cave then entered, took a seat centerstage and launched into “Antrocene” from 2016’s album, “Skeleton Tree.” The band’s Asheville setlist also included seven other tracks from the album, which is its latest. Regarding the “Skeleton Tree” album, Stuart Berman wrote in a review of it on website Pitchfork.com: “People die in Nick Cave songs. They get wiped out in floods, zapped in electric chairs, and mowed down en masse in saloon shoot-outs. For Cave, death serves as both a dramatic and rhetorical device — it’s great theater, but it’s also swift justice for those who have done wrong, be it in the eyes of a lover or the Lord. As I once heard him quip in concert: ‘This next one’s a morality tale… they’re all morality tales, really. It’s what I do.’” What’s more, Berman added that following the tragic death of Arthur, who fell off a cliff to his death, “This is a record that exists in the headspace and guts of someone who’s endured an unspeakable, inconsolable trauma. And though the songs are not explicitly about Arthur they are uncannily about coming to terms with loss and the realization that things will never be the same again.” Along with Cave, Ellis played a bit of a co-frontman role in the show, as he easily shifted from guitar to piano to violin, and showed lively choreographic flair that included some fancy footwork that even featured karate kicks to the air. As Cave moved from one side of the front-stage to the other, he incessantly reached out and touched hands with the crowd who remained jammed into the area in front of the stage throughout the show.
Asheville Daily Planet - July 2017 - B7 Also, many of those in the regular seating area stood, swaying to the music, and with one hand outstretched toward Cave — and in some cases, with both hands outstretched, as if to a messiah. Also, more than a few times, Cave uttered the “F-bomb,” reliably triggering cheers — and easy laughs — from his rabid fans. One could only guess that he had nothing profound to say, beyond what he expressed in his music. “On the song “Distant Sky,” sadly, Danish soprano Else Torp is only present as a giant projection, with Cave and his group performing along with her recorded vocals. Another songs was “Can You Feel the Beat of My Heart,” as Cave dashed around the stage, leaning over and letting fans place their hands on his heart. The band was formed in Melbourne in
1983 by Cave, multi-instrumentalist Mick Harvey and guitarist Blixa Bargeld. Besides Cave and Ellis, the band includes bassist Martyn P. Casey and keyboardist Conway Savage (all four from Australia), keyboard/percussionist Barry Adamson and guitarist George Vjestica (both from the United Kingdom), and drummers Thomas Wydler (Switzerland) and Jim Sclavunos (United States). The band, which has released 16 studio albums and completed numerous international tours, is considered “one of the most original and celebrated bands of the post-punk and alternative rock eras in the ‘80s and onward,” Mark Deming wrote in his book, “Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds Biography.” Cave and his band have their strengths, but from what this reviewer heard and saw at the show, their hype exceeds their talent.
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B8 - July 2017 - Asheville Daily Planet