Mountain Xpress 12.17.14 by Mountain Xpress

O U R 2 1 s t Y E A R O F W E E K LY I N D E P E N D E N t N E W s , A R t s & E V E N t s F O R W E s t E R N N O R t H C A R O L I N A V O L . 2 1 N O . 2 0 D E C . 1 7 - D E C . 2 3 , 2 0 1 4

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Features

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nEws

12 wintER is coming Forecasters predict cold, snowy season

wELLnEss

IEN

U TIO

The Appalachians may never rival the Rockies, but outdoor enthusiasts say WNC offers more opportunities for winter adventures than many residents realize. This year local ski areas are celebrating a long list of improvements, and forecasters are predicting a cold, snowy winter.

22 honoRing hiLLfoLk hooDoo — Byron Ballard keeps Appalachian folk magic practices alive

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Winterizing WNC

25 BRunch city, u.s.a. Exploring Asheville’s favorite weekend meal

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34 cELEBRation timE Bluegrass Holiday Benefit and other events around WNC

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38 onE Big vision Gold Light mines ’50s sounds, bigscreen aesthetics and friendships

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contEnts O U R 2 1 s t Y E A R O F W E E K LY I N D E P E N D E N t N E W s , A R t s & E V E N t s F O R W E s t E R N N O R t H C A R O L I N A V O L . 2 1 N O . 2 0 D E C . 1 7 - D E C . 2 3 , 2 0 1 4

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Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Mountain Xpress is available free throughout Western North Carolina. Limit one copy per person. Additional copies may be purchased for $1 payable at the Xpress office in advance. No person may, without prior written permission of Xpress, take more than one copy of each issue. To subscribe to Mountain Xpress, send check or money order to: Subscription Department, PO Box 144, Asheville NC 28802. First class delivery. One year (52 issues) $115 / Six months (26 issues) $60. We accept Mastercard & Visa.

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opinion

Send your letters to the editor to letters@mountainx.com. staff

puBLishER: Jeff Fobes assistant to thE puBLishER: Susan Hutchinson managing EDitoR: Margaret Williams a&E EDitoR/wRitER: Alli Marshall fooD EDitoR/wRitER: Gina Smith staff REpoRtERs/wRitERs: Hayley Benton, Carrie Eidson, Susan Foster, Jake Frankel, Kat McReynolds EDitoRiaL assistants: Hayley Benton, Grady Cooper, Carrie Eidson, Susan Foster, Jake Frankel, Michael McDonald, Kat McReynolds, Tracy Rose moviE REviEwER & cooRDinatoR: Ken Hanke contRiButing EDitoRs: Peter Gregutt, Rob Mikulak

An independent voter’s viewpoint After reading “Updated Voting Report (ahem),” [“Asheville Disclaimer,” Dec. 3, Xpress] I was moved to provide a different point of view. I do not affiliate myself with any party and have never done so. I have always voted for the candidates’ promises on the issues and not the party. It has been the case in the past few decades that it has not worked for me. However, I find that even if it has not been effective in the past elections for me individually since many or most of the candidates now often change their stand on important issues and never seem to keep their promises, I still wait for nonvoters to participate in the process. The easiest and most effective way to convey our displeasure to the government is utilizing our right to vote. Many voters feel their vote doesn’t count. Quite the contrary. If you read the aforementioned article, it is plain that many are not exercising a very basic right and responsibility: voting. I wish to share a personal story illustrating the power of the people. When I was 15 years old, well below voting age, I participated

in a local political campaign. The candidate had just graduated from college, and all of his staff was not of voting age. The incumbent had been in office for 30 years. We were tireless workers — knocking on doors creating blisters on our feet, putting signs in yards, calling voters, even helping to clean the candidate’s apartment. The primary voting was done on my birthday, and I was sad I could not be at the main headquarters for the results. Even though my birthday was on the same day, the candidate called and wished me a happy birthday. Much to our surprise and joy, he won and later went on to be our governor. So you see you can make a difference no matter the age. When you hear someone is complaining and not exercising their right, I suggest you reply, “Don’t Vote, Don’t B*tch!,”. Tondra Bowers Hendersonville Editor’s note: Asheville Disclaimer was started in 2002 as an independent publication, and its humorous take on the news became part of Mountain Xpress 3 1/2 years later. Its take on the news frequently generates an opportunity for healthy discussion of issues.

REguLaR contRiButoRs: Jonathan Ammons, Edwin Arnaudin, Pat Barcas, Jacqui Castle, Jesse Farthing, Dorothy Foltz-Gray, Jordan Foltz, Doug Gibson, Steph Guinan, Cameron Huntley, Cindy Kunst, Lea McLellan, Emily Nichols, Josh O’Connor, Thom O’Hearn, Erik Peake, Kyle Petersen, Rich Rennicks, Tim Robison, Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt, Kyle Sherard, Toni Sherwood, Justin Souther aDvERtising, aRt & DEsign managER: Susan Hutchinson Photo by Jennifer Callahan

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caRtoon By BREnt BRown

Closing of Asheville race track was hardly ‘dark of night’ In response to jerry sternberg’s rebuttal to karen cragnolin and RiverLink [“The Gospel According to Jerry,” Dec. 10, Xpress], he mentions the “dark of night” closing of the Asheville Race Track. He says it was done by me and “other conspirators.” He called it “political bullying.” He said it was done “with cavalier disregard for the

fans,” who he then goes on to call “the great unwashed.” Let me once again inform Jerry of the facts. The racetrack was for sale for four years and was even advertised in the Atlanta newspaper by its owner. That is hardly “dark of night.” It was finally bought by a local developer in a legal real estate transaction. That is hardly “political bullying.” That developer gave the racetrack property to RiverLink as a gift. RiverLink then gave the property to the city of Asheville at an open meeting of City Council. The city, in a

negotiation with the new property owner and with great regard for the wonderful citizens who had enjoyed the track for so long, saw to it that the track stayed open for another year after its new owner took possession. Hardly “cavalier disregard.” As for me and the “other conspirators” Jerry refers to, I’m very proud of my council’s open meetings, open doors and transparent policies in place throughout our four-year administration. Leni Sitnick Asheville

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

N E W S

Winterizing WNC Ski enthusiasts want respect for ‘the Rodney Dangerfield of the mountains’ By jakE fRankEL

jfrankel@mountainx.com 251-1333 ext. 115

Western North Carolina isn’t exactly known as a winter sports mecca. Far from the ski-loving cultures of the Rockies and New England, fears of icy roads, school closures and work cancellations often reign supreme. During Southern snowstorms, more people can be found navigating the long lines at grocery stores for bread and milk than hitting the surrounding slopes. But for a growing breed of ski and snowboard enthusiasts across the region, predictions of cold, snowy weather inspire more exuberance than unease. Local ski area operators say interest in the sports has been increasing in recent years. They’ve been trying to feed the trend with investments in new slopes, instruction programs, snowmaking machines and chairlift upgrades. And while the Appalachians may never rival the Alps, local snow buffs say it’s high time the region gets the respect it deserves as a winter sports destination. “The South and its mountains are the Rodney Dangerfield of the mountain world,” says Randy johnson, a Banner Elk-based author who has written extensively about outdoor sports in WNC. “I’m passionate about getting the Rodney Dangerfield of America’s mountains proper credit. I think skiing is getting better down here. It’s a hotbed of skiing at this point and it’s a bona fide, valid place to call yourself a skier and celebrate skiing.” sLopEs anD hopEs This year local ski areas are celebrating a long list of improvements. Topping them is the first major new ski slope WNC has seen in decades.

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

Sugar Mountain Ski Resort in Banner Elk spent $1.2 million to cut the trail, which straddles the mountain’s winding northern pitch for 2,900 feet, dropping a steep 700 vertical feet. “It’s a significant impact to what a skier in the South can access in terms of variety and vertical — it’s long, it’s steep, it’s wide,” says kim jochl, a former member of the U.S. Alpine Ski Team who now serves as the resort’s marketing manager. The run is named Gunther’s Way after her husband, resort owner gunther jochl, an Austrian native who has been at the helm of North Carolina’s biggest ski area for 38 years. Helped by unusually cold weather and record early snowfall, the slope opened Nov. 20 and is attracting interest from across the Southeast ahead of the busy holiday season. “The response has been awesome,” he says. “It’s been a real hit; everybody loves it.” The slope followed $2.5 million in chairlift upgrades over the last few years.

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snow pLay: From ski races and snowboard parks to backcountry treks, WNC offers opportunities for winter adventures. Top: A young ski racer and snowboarder at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort (photos courtesy of bushphoto.com). Bottom from left: Peter Pfister catches air at Max Patch this fall (photo by Jake Frankel). Randy Johnson skis the Appalachian Trail at Roan Mountain (photo by Robert Branch).

Meanwhile, Beech Mountain also made major enhancements this year, including a new Magic Carpet conveyer lift for beginners, new hightech snow guns, new rental equipment and a snowboarding school. Also rising above the small town of Banner Elk, which markets itself as “Ski Capital of the South,” Beech offers the highest-elevation slopes in the East. “People are seeing that we’re truly invested in making this one of the top ski resorts in the Southeast,” says resort general manager Ryan costin. “All these upgrades are steps in that direction.” Closer to Asheville, Cataloochee Ski Area is in Maggie Valley,

about a 45-minute drive from town. It opened Nov. 2 this year, making national headlines as one of the first ski areas in the country to open. That puts it on track to offer skiing for 140-149 days this season, which is more than most resorts in the Rockies and Northeast, notes general manager chris Bates. He says skier visits were unharmed by the recession and have been steadily growing for the last 15 years. This season, the mountain plans to open a small new trail and will continue to invest in new snowmaking gear and instruction programs. Cataloochee partners with several local elementary schools to teach

kids how to ski and has a variety of deals designed to lure newcomers to give it a try. “They’re the future of the sport,” says Bates. “Skiing is one of those things where if you come out and have a good time at a young age, it kind of hooks you in and becomes part of your life.” Bates says he plans to build more trails in years to come. About a 35-minute drive north of Asheville, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort near Mars Hill has had some challenges in recent years, admits coowner and manager Rick Bussey. He says that the area was hurt by the real estate crash and had been slated to be sold each year for the last several years. In each case, the deals fell through at the last minute, he says. And last year, a failed deal resulted in a lawsuit. At the same time, one of the resort’s lodges burned down. The turmoil prevented Wolf Ridge from investing in improvements for a while, but Bussey says the disputes have now been resolved, the ownership has “regrouped,” and “this year we’re going to refocus and do things the way they should be.” Eventually, he wants to build a major new hotel and conference center on the mountain. In the meantime, he promises the ski area will open more of its terrain this year than it has in a long time. “There’s been criticism in the past that we haven’t been able to get all of our slopes open,” he says. “We really want to get everything open. I think we have the best terrain of all the slopes. Maybe we haven’t mastered them the way we could.”

swEEt nEw sLopE: This year Sugar Mountain opened the first major new slope WNC has seen in decades. Mountain photo by Randy Johnson and photo looking down from the top of the slope by Jake Frankel.

gunning foR snow More than anything else, the growth of Southern skiing has been powered by upgrades in snowmaking technology. When air temperatures drop below freezing, most snow “guns” combine compressed air and water, shooting water droplets into the air at high speeds, where it freezes into snowflakes before blanketing the slopes. Big grooming tractors are then used to comb the snow, dispersing it across slopes and transforming them into a more ridable surface. “Some people say, ‘Well, you’re making “artificial snow,” but there’s nothing artificial about what we’re making,” says Jochl. “It’s water and air.” The whole process has gotten more efficient and faster over the years, giving ski areas the ability to quickly cover most of their terrain with snow, even without any natural accumulation. In fact, cold temperatures have become much more important to a resort’s success than natural snow. “The South, over the years, has truly expanded the high-tech nature of the snowmaking and grooming side of the industry. That’s what’s made the difference,” says Johnson.

“That kind of snowmaking power turns an iffy kind of industry into something that the skier can really count on for high-quality conditions.” Of course, cranking up all those snow guns and staffing the ski areas cost a lot of money. Sugar’s electricity bill alone runs upward of $1.3 million a year, according to Jochl. The resort employs about 600 people per winter. Wolf Ridge employs about 170, making it one of the largest employers in Madison County. The high costs of operations are partially to blame for the price of passes, which generally run between $30 and $70 a day. It all adds up to big business, according to the most recent Economic Value Analysis commissioned by the N.C. Ski Areas Association. Collectively, the state’s six ski areas pumped $146 million into the Western North Carolina economy during the 2009-10 season, according to the report. The trade association is commissioning another study this year to determine a more up-to-date measurement. craig friedrich, owner of Asheville retail store Ski Country Sports, says he’s seen big consumer growth since opening the shop in 1990. He credits the resorts in general for getting “a lot better at being snow farmers,” and Cataloochee in particular for its popular youth program and race series. The Asheville Ski Club also has an active and successful race program. In fact, its team has come in first place in its Crescent Ski Council division the last two years, competing with teams across the Southeast at resorts in North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. john hofler, the club’s volunteer president, says many of the group’s nearly 200 members are also active as local ski instructors and safety patrollers. Although he says he does wish the area offered more challenging terrain for experts such as himself, he gets fulfillment from helping turn newcomers onto the sport. “I find that very rewarding to be on the slope helping people,” says Hofler, who works as a member of the Wolf Ridge ski patrol. BackcountRy cackaLack For hearty locals seeking winter adventures outside the confines of a resort, opportunities abound in

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stoRy continuEs on pagE 10

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

nEws

by Jake Frankel

stoRy continuED fRom pagE 9

the region, although sometimes they can take a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access. In fact, the tradition of skiing in WNC vastly predates the first chairlifts, which went up at Cataloochee in 1961. Stories of skiers trudging up Beech Mountain’s natural meadows date as far back as the 1930s, according to Johnson, who documented the sport’s local history and backcountry trails in his book Southern Snow: The Winter Guide to Dixie. Those following in their footsteps can now be found skiing, snowboarding and sledding at popular wilderness sites like the Roan Highlands. After a surprise Halloween snowstorm this year dropped up to 2 feet of snow on some local mountain ridges, a visit to Max Patch in Madison County revealed dozens of enthusiasts schussing the area’s steep natural ridges, building jumps and performing acrobatic tricks. Asheville thrill seekers shouldn’t be dissuaded by the meager average of 14 inches of snow the city receives each winter. When nothing more than a few flurries are falling in town, the higher mountain peaks a short drive away are often getting blasted, averaging more than 100 inches a year. Johnson notes that those in search of snow have a growing arsenal of tools at their disposal to determine backcountry conditions. When he published Southern Snow in 1986, he

jfrankel@mountainx.com advised Asheville trekkers to call residents in remote rural areas to ask them what the weather was doing. Now the Internet allows savvy travelers to find out precise snow conditions via a variety of websites and even live webcams. “We are dramatically better able to understand the true weather and the true ski conditions than we ever have been,” says Johnson, who is writing an updated version of his book. Of course, on the occasions it does snow in Asheville, a creative attitude and a shovel can turn any neighborhood hill into a terrain park. During last year’s big snowstorms, crosscountry skiers could be seen sliding down Lexington Avenue, and sledders were speeding down Walnut Street. However, despite all the advancements and enthusiasm, stereotypes of the area as a winter sports desert do persist, laments Hofler. “I was wearing a shirt at a restaurant that said ‘Asheville Ski Club,’ and the waitress looked at it and said, ‘Is that a joke?’” he says. “So there are people here who don’t know much about local skiing, the opportunities we have.” But Hofler says he doesn’t let that get him down. The most important thing his club tries to do is encourage people to enjoy the surrounding mountains — if not on skis, then bikes, boats and hiking feet will do, he says. With so many opportunities available to get out and play, he says with a laugh, “If you’re going to live here and you’re not out enjoying the outdoors, there’s something wrong.”X Also in this issue: See “Winter is Coming” for more on winter weather in WNC and “Get Outside for Winter Activities” for a roundup of upcoming outdoor events and resources.

BackcountRy tRaDition: Skiers swooshed down Cataloochee’s natural meadows using golf clubs as ski poles in the 1950s long before chairlifts were available (left photo courtesy of Cataloochee Ski Area). This Nov. 2 dozens of adventurers skied, snowboarded and sledded at Max Patch. (photo of Peter Pfister and Sam Bowers by Jake Frankel)

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

nEws

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The first official day of winter isn’t until Dec. 21, but Western North Carolina has already received an abundance of cold and snowy weather this year. November came in like a lion, with a few inches of snow falling in Asheville on the first day of the month, and a whopping 22 inches blasting Mount LeConte in the Smokies. Many in the region went on to experience their first “White Thanksgiving” in ages, and on many occassions, Twitter was abuzz with the #avlsnomg hashtag as people spotted flurries falling from the sky. Mount Mitchell and Beech Mountain both experienced

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the snowiest November in their recorded histories. And if a wealth of long-range predictions comes true, the early shots of snow could be harbingers of much more to come. Ray’s Weather Center, a local forecasting service that produces several websites noted for their accuracy, predicts WNC will have slightly colder temperatures overall and receive about 20 percent more snowfall than the 55-year average. Roger martin, lead forecaster for Ray’s, says the local forecast is largely based on the high probability that surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean will be warmer than normal, the so-called El Niño phenomenon. “It’s amazing that in one region of the world, a little warming of the water can affect weather all over the globe,” says Martin. Of course, he cautions that forecasting weather accurately is challenging a couple of weeks ahead of time, let alone several months in advance. The drastic changes in elevations across WNC due to the mountainous terrain make it extra tough to prognosticate, he says. Asheville, which lies in the French Broad River Valley, receives an average of 14 inches of snow a year, while the lofty peak of Mount Mitchell, only about 35 miles away, gets more than 100 inches. When winter storms head to the region, “the most challenging thing is predicting where the rain and snow line will be,” says Martin. “As a meteorologist, winter weather in

the mountains is like weight training: It’s not easy, but we pride ourselves in trying to predict what will happen in those wildly differing elevations.” Skeptics of Ray’s predictions for this winter don’t just have to take the site’s word for it. A long list of other outlets is also calling for snowier and colder conditions than normal, including WeatherBELL, WCNC, WXSouth and The Old Farmers Almanac, a popular — and decidedly unscientific — guide, since 1792. Even the clairvoyant woolly worms in Banner Elk are calling for a harsh winter. The town hosted the 37th annual Woolly Worm Festival this fall, and human interpreters said that judging by the 13 fuzzy dark stripes on a worm named Kwazimodo, it would be a cold, snowy year. All of this is good news for local winter sports enthusiasts. Sugar Mountain Ski Resort owner gunther jochl says, “It’s a great business when it’s nice and cold. Of course, when it’s warm and icky, it stinks.” The success of the entire ski industry can be boiled down to one main phrase, he jokes: “It’s the weather, dummy.” (See “Winterizing WNC” for more on local skiing.) Predictions for this winter aside, stats from Ray’s Weather Center show that snowfall averages in the region are generally lower over the last 10 years than they are over the last 55 years. Amid growing worries across the world about the dire consequences of climate change, the trend seems as if it could keep folks like Jochl up at night. But his wife, kim jochl, who serves as Sugar’s marketing manager, says they’re not concerned. “I’m not scared one bit,” she says. “Winter has always occurred. … I don’t see winter going away.” X

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

nEws

by Brad Messenger

bmessenger@mountainx.com

Get outside for winter activities Are you packing on those extra pounds after gorging on office holiday cookies and sugared paraphernalia? Are you spending your evenings hiding under your blankets and waiting for spring? Then you may be missing out on the great outdoor events Western North Carolina has to offer. We’ve rounded up some options for activities and great-outdoors clubs that will keep you moving well into the early part of 2015. Because it may be winter, but that doesn’t mean you have to be in hibernation. Several nearby ski resorts and clubs are here to help you turn those subfreezing temperatures into seasonal adventures (see the “Winter Sports” list), but maybe you never thought winter sports were for you? If you’re looking for a way to ease into a new adventure, the city of Asheville has put together a Learn to Ski & Snowboard program for 2015. Geared toward ages 12-17, the program brings participants to Cataloochee

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Jewelry Custom Herbal Teas Oil Blending Bar Viking Drinking Horns Leather Journals Quill & Ink Writing Sets Sealing Wax Kits Premium Organic Incense Custom Bath & Body Metaphysical Supplies Crafted Brooms Books & Calendars Gift Cards Local Art Shows

sLip-sLiDing away: There’s six ski areas within a short drive of Asheville. Photo of skiers and snowboarders at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort courtesy of bushphoto.com

Ski Resort for five consecutive Fridays in the winter with program packages starting at $235 for residents. (For more information, contact Christen McNamara at outdoorprograms@ ashevillenc.gov or visit ashevillenc.gov.) Or if you just want to slide down a hill without the fuss of learning a new sport, all of the local ski resorts also offer snowtubing — which is basically a fancy form of sledding. Many of them offer ice skating and snowshoeing as well. Or maybe you’re a ski bunny looking for a ski buddy? Outdoor sports are a great way to make friends, and clubs like the Asheville Ski Club invite the public to check their meetup pages and get involved. For the solo adventurer, there are also a number of spots in WNC for backcountry cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, when the weather permits. (For a list of local trails — most located in

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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the Boone area — visit skisoutheast. com/activities/cross-country-skiing/ north-carolina.) Meanwhile, there’s a wealth of upcoming opportunities for running, biking and much more. If you’re looking to take your Christmas sweater party to the next level, surprise your friends and relatives by signing them up for the Reindeer Run 5K in Hendersonville. Although not required, participants are encouraged to dress up in festive gear. Though this practice may not be encouraged by organizers, we also suggest drinking eggnog and eating 10 sugar cookies every half mile during the run, BYOE and BYOSC. If the potential nausea doesn’t appeal to you, the run also benefits a good cause — the Jones Family Scholarship for North Henderson High School seniors. On New Year’s Day, iDaph events is hosting the annual Resolution Run 5K. This is a fun run that hits the streets of downtown Asheville and adjacent neighborhoods at the relatively leisurely start time of 10 a.m. The Foot RX Trail series has two more events on the calendar,

catching a Lift: About a 35-minute drive north of town, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort is the closest ski area to Asheville. Photo by Jake Frankel

and they’re not for the faint of heart: The Frosty Foot 50K and 30K in Tsali will be on Saturday, Jan. 17, followed by the Yeti or Not 25K in DuPont State forest on Saturday, Feb. 28. But if that doesn’t sound like your style, there’s also the annual Hot Chocolate 10K rolling through Asheville on Saturday, Jan. 24. Hot chocolate will be available for all participants who finish the race, but we suggest those who fail to complete will be forced to drink 60 ounce cherry slushies. The YMCA of Woodfin will also host a few hikes this winter. On Saturday, Dec. 27, the Y will lead the way to Glassy Mountain in Flat Rock, and, on New Year’s Day, it will be leading an urban hike leaving from the campus of UNC Asheville. One of my personal favorites is the 2015 Icycle at Fontana Dam, hosted by Pisgah Productions. This duo of mountain bike events consists of a cross-country race during the day followed by a nighttime downhill race. You can choose to participate in one or both events. There are categories for all levels of racers, so long as you are willing to brave the cold darkness. Lights with more than 150 lumens are required for the nighttime downhill race; if you don’t have one, add it to your Christmas list. Farther afield, there’s a fantastic road bike ride in Davidson on Saturday, Jan. 10 — the Polar Bear Metric Century, which typically draws nearly 700 cyclists on a course of rolling terrain in Davidson County. And of course, a winter-events roundup wouldn’t be complete without a Polar Plunge, which happens New Year’s Day at Lake Lure and is hosted by the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce. This can be an intense event, but ambulances and medical personal will be on-site — in fact, the event raises money for the Lake Lure Fire and Rescue and other first responders. We’re also very fortunate to have a handful of weekly group rides and runs that push through the cold-weather season. Every Wednesday at Bent Creek, the Pisgah Area SORBA hosts a mountain bike ride that departs from the Rice Pinnacle lot at 6:30 p.m. This is considered an intermediate-level ride and lights are required. On Tuesdays, leaving from Liberty Bikes, there’s a casually paced road bike ride at 10 a.m. — Claudia’s Tuesday Ride. Expect a good opportunity to socialize with fellow cyclists. If you’re looking for a Saturday road ride, stop by Sycamore Cycles in Brevard and ask about the Spin and

Grin Road Rides. These leave the shop every Saturday and cover some beautiful terrain. Jus’ Running has a Saturday run leaving the shop at 8 a.m. for an 8- to 13-mile trek (full list of group runs in the area and contact information for each of the run leaders is available at jusrunning.com). For the intermediate to advanced runners out there, consider the Run AVL Group (previously the Carrier Park Runners), which has been meeting for over 10 years every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Carrier Park picnic shelter. Email Tom at burytom@ outlook.com for more information. For the height fiends out there, Fox Mountain Guides offers rock

climbing, and when the weather permits, ice-climbing adventures and courses for all ability levels. Finally, it’s certainly worth noting that the local REI sporting goods store at Biltmore Park Town Square offers a number of outdoor classes and beginner clinics catering to the outdoor enthusiasts. Classes range from camping basics to beginner bicycle maintenance, and most of them require you register on the rei.com website. Be sure to check mountainx.com every Thursday for our “Get Outside” series, including a listing of events. If you have an event or outdoor activity that you would like to see posted, let us know at feedback@mountainx.com.X

wintER spoRts

Bluebird Designs and Stacie Florer Jewelry have combined studios!

Come by and see us for holiday gifts made by hand and with love Riverview Station River Arts District 191 Lyman St Ste 256 Asheville 28801 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11-4

wolf Ridge ski Resort: skiwolflaurel.com cataloochee ski Resort: cataloochee.com sugar mountain Resort: skisugar.com Beech mountain Resort: beechmountainresort.com appalachian ski mountain: appskimtn.com sapphire valley: skisapphirevalley.com Learn to ski & snowboard program: ashevillenc.gov or outdoorprograms@ashevillenc.gov fox mountain guides: foxmountainguides.com asheville ski & outing club: ashevilleskiclub.com cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: skisoutheast.com/activities/cross-country-skiing/north-carolina REi classes & Events: rei.com/stores/asheville.html Runs & RiDEs Dec. 24: JSF Reindeer Run (Hendersonville); runsignup.com/Race/NC/Hendersonville/JSFReindeerRun5K Dec. 27: Glassy Mountain in Flat Rock (Meets at Woodfin YMCA); contact Blanca Miller at Bmoi735@gmail.com. jan. 1: New Year’s Day Polar Plunge (Lake Lure); business.hickorynutchamber. org/events/details/lake-lure-new-year-s-day-polar-plunge-1389 jan. 1: Resolution Run 5K (Downtown Asheville); idaph.net/events/resolution-run-5k jan. 1: New Year’s Day Urban Hike 3-4 miles round trip. (Meets at UNCA’s lower parking lot); contact James Cassara at jjcassara@aol.com. jan. 10: Polar Bear Metric Century (Davidson); rockyriverroadclub.org jan. 17 & feb. 28: Foot RX winter trail series (Canton); footrxasheville.com/winter_series.aspx jan. 24: Hot Chocolate 10K (Asheville); new.raceroster.com/events/2015/3406/ asheville-hot-chocolate-10k jan. 24: 2015 Icycle (Fontana Dam); pisgahproductions.com/ uncategorized/2014/10/30/2015-icycle feb. 14: Lake James Trail Races 5K, 11 miles and15 miles (Lake James State Park); asheville.carolinarunner.com wednesdays: Bent Creek Middle Rim Ride (Meets at Rice Pinnacle on Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m.); meetup.com/Pisgah-Area-Mountain-Biking-AshevilleHendersonville-brevard tuesdays: Claudia’s Tuesday Ride from Liberty Bikes (Asheville); blueridgebicycleclub.org saturdays: Spin & Grin Road Ride (Brevard); sycamorecycles.com/ride-local/ events-calendar tuesdays & thursdays: Carrier Park Runners Group Run (Carrier Park) contact burytom@outlook.com weekly group runs: Asheville Area Group Run Calendar (Various locations); jusrunning.com/_groupruns.php

FREE Cannonball Sax clinic. Saturday, Dec.20th, 12:00 noon Jazz clinician - Chris Hemingway Classical clinician - Steve Pollack These two are members of the acclaimed New Century Sax Quartet; and Cannonball Sax artist Door prizes and special pricing on Cannonball products

828.299.3000

800 Fairview Rd. @ River Ridge

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

C O M M U N I T Y

C A L E N D A R

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

Calendar Deadlines In order to qualify for a fREE Listing, an event must benefit or be sponsored by a nonprofit or noncommercial community group. In the spirit of Xpress’ commitment to support the work of grassroots community organizations, we will also list events our staff consider to be of value or interest to the public, including local theater performances and art exhibits even if hosted by a for-profit group or business. All events must cost no more than $40 to attend in order to qualify for free listings, with the one exception of events that benefit nonprofits. Commercial endeavors and promotional events do not qualify for free listings. fREE Listings will be edited by Xpress staff to conform to our style guidelines and length. Free listings appear in the publication covering the date range in which the event occurs. Events may be submitted via EmaiL to calendar@mountainx.com or through our onLinE submission form at mountainx. com/calendar. The deadline for free listings is the Wednesday one week prior to publication at 5 p.m. For a full list of community calendar guidelines, please visit mountainx.com/ calendar. For questions about free listings, call 251-1333, ext. 110. For questions about paid calendar listings, please call 251-1333, ext. 320.

Benefits Jones scholarship fund reindeer run jonesfamilyscholarship@ gmail.com • WE (12/24), 9am Registration fees for this 5K holiday race benefit the Jones family scholarship fund for seniors at north henderson high school. $20/$15 ages 18 & under. Held at North Henderson High School, 35 Fruitland Road, Hendersonville Mustacheville’s ugly XMas sweater holiday party 255-7767, avl.mx/0le • FR (12/19), 9pm - Tickets and donations to this fundraiser benefit eliada homes and the Be loved house. $5 or gently used coat or blanket donation. Held at One Stop Deli & Bar, 55 College St.

a DiffEREnt kinD of hoLiDay oBsERvancE: Environmental & Conservation Organization will host a Winter Solstice Night Hike to Dupont State Forest on Sunday, Dec. 21. The hike will celebrate the longest night of the year with a stroll to Hooker Falls. Participants should dress warmly and bring a flashlight and a beverage to toast the return of the sun to the North Hemisphere. Photo courtesy of Dupont State Forest. (p.18)

holiday concert for children first childrenfirstcisbc.org, 259-9717 • SU (12/21), 7-9pm - Community groups perform sacred and secular holiday favorites to benefit children first/communities in schools. Donations accepted. Held at Abernethy UMC, 1418 Patton Ave. the vanishing wheelchair 645-2941, vanishingwheelchair.org • SA (12/20), 6:30pm - Tickets to “Magic, Mirth & Meaning,” storytelling and magic show benefit the vanishing wheelchair’s “all things are possible” workshop series. $10/$5 children. Held at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 337 Charlotte St.

classes, Meetings & events asheville glass center (pd.) Weekly course offerings in the art of glass blowing. Day,

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

weekend and evening offerings. A challenging medium expertly taught by our skilled instructors, one on one or group experiences. ashevilleglass.com, 828-505-7110

Knitters, casual knitting and needlework group for all skill levels. Free. Held at Swannanoa Library, 101 West Charleston St., Swannanoa

asheville Browns Backers cluB 658-4149, ashevillebbw@gmail.com • SUNDAYS - Meets during Cleveland Browns games. Contact for specific times. Held at The Fairview Tavern, 831 Old Fairview Rd.

d&d adventurers league revtobiaz@gmail.com • WEDNESDAYS, 5:30pm Ongoing fantasy roleplaying campaign for both new and veteran players. Free. Held at The Wyvern’s Tale, 347 Merrimon Ave.

asheville toastMasters cluB 914-424-7347 ashevilletoastmasters.com • THURSDAYS, 6:15pm - Weekly meetings for sharpening public speaking skills. Free. Held at YMI Cultural Center, 39 South Market St. BuncoMBe county puBlic liBraries buncombecounty.org/ governing/depts/library • WE (12/17), 5pm - Swannanoa

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fletcher liBrary 120 Library Road, Fletcher, 687-1218 library.hendersoncountync.org • TUESDAYS, 3pm - Medium to advanced conversational Spanish class. Free. hendersonville wise woMen 693-1523 • 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 1:30pm - A safe, supportive group for women “of a certain age.” Free. Held at Grace Lutheran Church, 1245 Sixth Ave. W., Hendersonville

klondike apartMents 500 Montford Ave., 257-2677 • TH (12/18), 6-8pm - “Hood Talk,” discussing greater community communication and strength. Free. ontrack wnc 50 S. French Broad Ave., 255-5166, ontrackwnc.org Registration required. • TH (12/18), 5:30-8pm - “Manage Your Money” series. Free. • FR (12/19), noon-1pm “Understanding Credit. Get it. Keep it. Improve it,” money management seminar. Free. sMoky Mountain chess cluB facebook.com/ SmokyMountainChessClub • THURSDAYS, 1pm - Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Free. Held at Blue Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., Waynesville sMoky Mountain knitting guild smkguild.com • WEDNESDAYS, 1-3pm -

Knitting classes. Free. Held at Blue Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., Waynesville toastMasters 978-697-2783 • TUESDAYS, 7-8am - Works on developing public speaking and leadership skills. Free. Held at Reuter YMCA, 3 Town Center Blvd. wnc physicians for social responsiBility wncpsr.org, info@wncpsr.org • FR (12/19), noon - Monthly meeting. Held in private home. Contact for location.

dance studio Zahiya, downtown dance classes (pd.) Monday 6pm Hip Hop Wkt • Tuesday 9am Hip Hop Wkt 6pm Intro to Bellydance 7pm Bellydance 2 8pm West African • Wednesday 6pm Bellydance 3 • Thursday 9am Hip Hop Wrkt 4pm Kid’s Dance 6pm Intro to

Bellydance 7pm West African • Saturday 9am Hip Hop Wrkt 10:30am Bellydance • Sunday 10am Intro to West African • $13 for 60 minute classes, Hip Hop Wkrt $5. 90 1/2 N. Lexington Avenue. www.studiozahiya.com :: 828.242.7595

eco asheville green drinks ashevillegreendrinks.com • WE (12/17), 5:30pm - Habitat for Humanity and Mountain Housing Opportunities discuss affordable green housing. Free to attend. Held at Green Sage Cafe Downtown, 5 Broadway green grannies avl.mx/0gm • 3rd SATURDAYS, 5pm - “Sing for the Climate,” demonstration. Free. Held at Vance Monument, 1 Pack Square riverlink 252-8474, riverlink.org • TH (12/18), 2pm - Riverfront Bus Tour, discusses the Flood of 1916 and the Wilma Dykeman RiverWay Plan. Registration required. $20/free for members. Meets at Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, 36 Montford Ave. western north carolina alliance 258-8737, wnca.org • WE (12/17), 9:30am-5pm Guided river trip planting trees to prevent erosion. Registration required. Free. Meets at Headwaters Outfitters, 25 Parkway Road, Rosman

festivals asBury MeMorial uMc 171 Beaverdam Road, 253-0765

• WE (12/24), 5pm - Historical 1800s Christmas Eve candlelight service with period music, attire, liturgy and decorations. Free. deck the trees libbafairleigh@gmail.com, facebook.com/ montevistahotel • Through WE (12/31) - Dollarvotes at this hand-decorated Christmas tree contest benefit Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries. Free to attend. Held at Monte Vista Hotel, 308 W. State St., Black Mountain ethical huManist society of asheville 687-7759, aeu.org • SU (12/21), 2-3:30pm - Winter Festival 2014, candle lighting ceremony and “This I Believe” statements. Free. Held at Asheville Friends Meetinghouse, 227 Edgewood Road

- “Winter Lights,” light show and festivities in the garden. Admission fees apply. north asheville tailgate Market northashevilletailgatemarket.org • SATURDAYS through (12/20), noon-3pm - Holiday Bazaar includes artisan foods and crafts. Free to attend. Held on the campus of UNCA. shadrack christMas wonderland 693-9708, shadrackchristmas. com/asheville • Through SU (1/4), 6-10pm Drive-through LED Christmas lights and music show. $20+/vehicle. Held at WNC Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Road

friends of hickory nut gorge 685-8798, friendsofhng.org • TH (12/18), 6-9pm - Holiday gathering and wildlife diversity presentation. Free to attend. Held at Lake Lure Inn, 2771 Memorial Highway, Lake Lure

swannanoa valley fine arts league svfalarts.org • TUESDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/31), 11am-3pm Holiday gift market. Free to attend. Held at Red House Studios and Gallery, 310 W. State St., Black Mountain

holiday events in rutherford 980-2883 experiencerutherford.com • FRIDAYS through SUNDAYS until TH (1/1) - “Hometown Holidays,” includes lights, carriage rides, hay rides and pet photos with Santa Paws. Held in downtown Forest City.

west asheville holiday farMer’s Market 545-4516 westashevilletailgatemarket.com • TUESDAYS through (12/23), 2:30-6pm - Includes live music and food. Free to attend. Held at The Mothlight, 701 Haywood Road

lake Julian park 406 Overlook Road Ext., Arden, 684-0376 • Through TU (12/23), 6-9pm Festival of Lights. $5-$25/vehicle.

winterfest in the gorge

n.c. arBoretuM 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, 665-2492, ncarboretum.org • Through SA (1/4), 8am-8pm

625-2725, hickorynutchamber.org • Through TH (1/1) - Family activities including holiday lights, chili cook-off, hay rides and pictures with Santa. Contact for schedule. Free to attend. Held in Hickory Nut Gorge.

mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

by Carrie Eidson & Michael McDonald

community caLEnDaR

Send your event listings to calendar@mountainx.com.

Fun fundraisers

food & Beer asheville vegan society meetup.com/The-AshevilleVegan-Society • 3rd THURSDAYS, 6:30pm Meet-up to share a meal and discuss vegan issues. Free to attend. Held at Whole Foods Market, 4 S. Tunnel Road skyland fire departMent 9 Miller Road, Skyland, 684-6421 • WE (12/17), 1-3pm - Whole grain pie crusts & cookies homemilling class. $15.

governMent & politics henderson county deMocratic party 692-6424, myhcdp.com • WE (12/17), 11:30am - Senior democrats bring your own lunch social. Free. Held at 905 S. Greenville Highway, Hendersonville

kids

Dressed to give what: Mustacheville’s Ugly Christmas Sweater Holiday Party Fundraiser whEn: Friday, Dec. 19, 9 p.m. whERE: One Stop, 55 College St., Asheville why: Benefit organizer nikki mcclane and her Mustacheville friends wanted to throw themselves a holiday party, but for some reason this year felt different. “We really wanted to give people a chance to celebrate and show their appreciation, so we decided to hold a holiday party to raise money for other people, for our community,” says McClane. The result? The inaugural Ugly Christmas Sweater Holiday Party to benefit Eliada Homes and the Be Loved House. Attendees are encouraged to adorn themselves in their tackiest attire and wax their mustaches to celebrate the season in style. Activities at the event include Christmas tunes courtesy of Emily

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

wooten, as well as performances by Endymion Is the Moon, DJ Ganjourn and ElectroChemical to round out the evening. A raffle will also be held, featuring an assortment of items such as a Buchi Kombucha gift basket, clothing, artwork, a gift certificate to Dr. Dave’s Automotive and more. The highlight of the raffle is an underwater-themed crystal mermaid crown. “The crown is always the most highly desired item in our raffles,” notes McClane. Tickets to this 21 and older event are $5, but benefit-goers can donate a gently used coat or blanket for free admission. Eighty percent of proceeds from the door will go to benefit general operational costs at Eliada Homes, and all coats and blankets will be donated to Be Loved House, a community house in downtown where people in need can find a hot meal, camaraderie and cold-weather gear. For more information about the event, contact The One Stop at 2557767 or visit ashevillemusichall.com. — Michael McDonald

mountainx.com

hands on! children’s MuseuM 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 697-8333 • MO (12/22), 2pm - Light-up Christmas card making workshop. Registration required. $9/$4 members. • TU (12/23), 11am - “Mad Scientists Lab: Snow!” Registration required. $7/free for members. • TU (12/23), 2pm - Gingerbread house making for ages 8+. Registration required. $9/$4 members. kids’ activities at the liBraries buncombecounty.org/ governing/depts/library Free unless otherwise noted. • WE (12/17), 3:30pm - Makers and Shakers Club: Origami box making for grades K-5. Held at Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St. • FR (12/19), 3:30pm - LEGO Builders Club for ages 5 and up. Held at Leicester Library, 1561 Alexander Road, Leicester • FR (12/19), 4pm - Teen Awesome Group planning meeting, 6th grade and up. Held at Weaverville Public Library, 41 N. Main St., Weaverville • MO (12/22), 4pm - LEGO Builders Club for ages 6 and up. Held at Weaverville Public Library, 41 N. Main St., Weaverville

lake JaMes state park 6883 N.C. Highway 126, Nebo, 584-7728 • TU (12/23), 4pm - Christmas crafts for kids. Free.

outdoors environMental & conservation organiZation 692-0385, eco-wnc.org • SU (12/21), 7pm - Solstice evening hike to Hooker Falls. Free. Meets at Entrance: 1400 Staton Road, Cedar Mountain lake JaMes state park 6883 N.C. Highway 126, Nebo, 584-7728 • SA (12/20), 1:45pm - Rangerled winter waterfowl cruise. Registration required. Free. • WE (12/24), 2pm - Christmas Eve hike along Holly Discovery Trail. Free. wnc sierra cluB 713-4994, wenoca.org • SA (12/20), 10am - Moderate 5-mile hike on Pigeon River Trail. Registration required.

seniors adult foruM at fcc 692-8630, fcchendersonville.org • SU (12/21), 9:15am “Evolutionary Spirituality - Part One,” discussing thoughts of Jesuit priest Pere Teilhard de Chardin. Free. Held at First Congregational UCC of Hendersonville, 1735 5th Ave. W., Hendersonville

spirituality aBout the transcendental Meditation technique: free introductory lecture (pd.) Healing and Transformation Through Transcendental Meditation. Learn about the authentic TM technique. It’s not concentrating, trying to be mindful, or common mantra practice. It’s an effortless, non-religious, evidence-based technique for heightened well-being and a spiritually fulfilled life. The only meditation recommended by the American Heart Association. • Topics: How the major forms of meditation differ—in practice and results; What science says about TM, stress, anxiety and depression; Meditation and brain research; What is Enlightenment? • Thursday, 6:30-7:30pm,

asheville tM center, 165 E. Chestnut. 828-254-4350 or Meditationasheville.org asheville insight Meditation (pd.) Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation. Learn how to get a Mindfulness Meditation practice started. 1st & 3rd Mondays. 7pm – 8:30. Asheville Insight Meditation, 29 Ravenscroft Dr, Suite 200, (828) 808-4444, www. ashevillemeditation.com astro-counseling (pd.) Licensed counselor and accredited professional astrologer uses your chart when counseling for additional insight into yourself, your relationships and life directions. Readings also available. Christy Gunther, MA, LPC. (828) 258-3229. awakening deepest nature Meditation class (pd.) Consciousness teacher and columnist Bill Walz. Healing into life through deepened stillness, presence & wisdom. Meditation, lessons & dialogue in Zen inspired unorthodox enlightenment. Mondays, 6:30-7:30pm - Asheville Friends Meeting House at 227 Edgewood Ave. (off Merrimon). Donation. (828) 258-3241, healing@billwalz.com, www.billwalz. com hosea’s Message for aMerica (pd.) is the subject of classes offered at Biltmore Church of Christ, 823 Fairview Street at 9:30 a.m., Sunday. Led by Dr. Gene Rainey, former UNCA professor and County Commission chair. For directions to the church go to www.biltmorecofc.org. the Blue Mandala (pd.) Dec. 17th- Living Light Blessing 6:30-7:30 FREE; Dec. 20th Holiday Gift Sale 10am-4pm; Ongoing Events: Tues- Sat. by appt. Intuitive Readings & Holistic Healing. The Blue Mandala 1359 Cane Creek Rd Fletcher, NC 28732 828-275-2755 thebluemandala.com asheville tantra circle journeyawake.wordpress.com/ events, elainecaban@gmail.com • MONDAYS, 7-9:30pm - Tantra, sexual healing, awakening and intimacy techniques. Contact for location. Admission by donation. celtic christian holiday services 645-2674, avalongrove.org, avalongrove@gmail.com • SU (12/21), 3-4pm - Winter Solstice service with optional potluck to follow. Free. Held at Avalon Grove, 223 Dula Springs Road, Weaverville

Buying, Selling or Investing in Real Estate?

(828) 210-1697

first congregational ucc of hendersonville 1735 5th Ave. W., Hendersonville, 692-8630, fccendersonville.com • WE (12/17), 5:30pm - “In the Stillness of Night,” anti-holidayfrazzle service. • SU (12/21), 10:30am Christmas music worship service. Free. • WE (12/24), 5pm - “Advent Lessons and Carols,” Christmas Eve Nativity celebration. Free. grace lutheran church 1245 Sixth Ave. W., Hendersonville, 693-4890, gracelutherannc.com • WE (12/17), 6pm - Advent Taizé prayer and healing service and light supper. Donations encouraged. • WE (12/24) 5pm, 7pm & 9pm- Christmas Eve services, bring a gift to benefit the women’s shelter. Free to attend. • TH (12/25), 10am - Christmas carol-fest service. land of the sky ucc 242-0268, landoftheskychurch. org, amanda@ landoftheskychurch.org • SU (12/21), 5:30-6:30pm - Blue Christmas service for those bearing burdens of grief and loss. Held at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, 123 Kenilworth Road • WE (12/24), 5-6:20pm Candlelight Christmas Eve service. Held at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, 123 Kenilworth Road

spoken & written word Malaprop’s Bookstore and cafe 55 Haywood St., 254-6734, malaprops.com • SA (12/20), 3pm - Storytime activities and pictures with the Grinch. Free to attend. synergy story slaM avl.mx/0gd, tlester33@gmail. com • WE (12/17), 7:30-9:30pm Open mic storytelling night on the theme, “Holiday Sneer.” Admission by donation. Held at Odditorium, 1045 Haywood Road

volunteering volunteer with the literacy council (pd.) volunteers are needed to tutor adults in reading, writing and English as a Second Language. Tutors receive training and support from certified professionals. Learn more by emailing us:volunteers@litcouncil.com. asheville area arts council gallery 1 Page Ave., 258-0710 ashevillearts.com • Through (12/21) Volunteers are needed to work as artist curators for 2015 exhibits.

Big Brothers Big sisters of wnc 253-1470, bbbswnc.org • WE (12/17), noon - Volunteer information session. Free. Held at United Way of Asheville & Buncombe, 50 S. French Broad Ave. caring for children 50 Reddick Road, 785-1590 • Through FR (12/19) - Gifts needed for children in the foster care system. Contact to be given a wish list from a child.

ST OF

14 WNC

www.TheMattAndMollyTeam.com

Happy from Holidays

children first cis of BuncoMBe county 259-9717, childrenfirstbc.org • Through SU (12/28) “Bedtime in a Bag,” drive for bedtime items for children in need. Held at NC Stage, 15 Stage Lane loving food resources 255-9282, admin@lovingfood.org • FR (12/19), 6-8pm Holiday Cookie Party, donate four dozen or more cookies to Loving Food Resources’ clients. Held at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, 123 Kenilworth Road For more volunteering opportunities, visit mountainx.com/volunteering

ASTONISHING FINDS...

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51 N. Merrimon Ave, Suite 117, N. Asheville: 828-252-7171 911 Charlotte HWY in Fairview: 828-628-9807

greenteasushi.com

Hello Asheville! Thank you for supporting us these past 10 years! Happy Holidays

...from Furniture to Collectibles

YEAR END CLEARANCE SALE! FRIDAY, DEC 19 SATURDAY, DEC 20 9AM - 5PM EACH DAY

Proceeds benefit CarePartners Foundation and CarePartners Hospice

Hospice Thrift Store has special deals every Thurs - Sat

105 Fairview Rd • Below the Screen Door in Biltmore cpestatesales.org for sale times, dates & special offers

from the Staff at Green Tea Sushi

Open Christmas Day • 12pm - 10pm Open New Year’s Eve: 11am - 10:30pm Open New Year’s Day • 1:30pm - 10:30pm 2 Regent Park Blvd. | 828-252-8300 Like us on facebook.com/greenteasushi mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

Asheville Disclaimer by Tom Scheve

humoR

tomscheve@gmail.com

Find local standup comedy info at DisclaimerComedy.com • Twitter @AVLdisclaimer Hands down on newspaper, don’t shoot!

asheville disclaimer

Briefs New $365K sprinkler system to transform Asheville’s Municipal Golf Course from patchy, unkempt field into knee-deep, frog-infested marsh Employee steals $7,500 from The Twisted Crepe using the old cash-stuffed blintz trick Numerous Graham County hunters, charged with bear poaching, claim entrapment ‘The bear was a mature 14, your honor,’ hunters claim

Autobiography: Billy Joel attempted suicide by drinking furniture polish; wasn’t released from hospital until he would Pledge® not to do it again

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Top Buncombe County boy names: • Oskar • Atlas • Workforce • Wavl • Mustachio • Brewer • Sam Pellegrino • The Boy Formerly Known as Fetus • Rollyerown • Bike • Louis C.K. Top Buncombe County girl names: • Gender Neutral Thing • Curly • Mothlight • Retro Me • Rhubarb • Baby Gurl • IPA • American Spirit • Pumpkin Spice • Ukulele Asheville Disclaimer is parody/satire Contact: tomscheve@gmail.com Contrib. this week: Joe Shelton, Tom Scheve

Counter-countercounter-rally announced to protest countercounter-rally ASHEVILLE, MONDAY — A series of escalating rallies and proposed counter-rallies regarding police brutality toward minorities has prompted community organizers to announce a new event, Asheville Rally Slam. “This is an event for those of us who want to see an end to police brutality, or who want to see an end to our rally against police brutality, or who want to see an end to the rally against our rally against police brutality,” said organizer Devon Glover. “Finding dates and times for our own rallies, as well as rallies against counter-rallies, has been a scheduling nightmare so we’re going to do it all this Saturday.” Glover encourages attendance for those who wish to end the culture of police Asheville Rally Slam will brutality, as well as those feature live entertainment. who want to support brutal or even nonbrutal police officers, and especially those who would like people who support brutal or non-brutal police officers to shut up. Members of any group who would like to protest or counter-protest against any other group or protest are encouraged to attend Asheville Rally Slam. “If you’re on the fence, or don’t even understand the issues involved, come on out anyhow and shop around for a rally that fits your taste,” said Glover. Organizers for the various rallies will be handing out literature about their rallies, and many ralliers will offer a succinct thumbnail sketch of their rallies’ causes on easy-to-read cardboard signs. For those who don’t like to read, there will be public chants and battle-cries to help you learn which rally you should rally behind. “I’m excited about Rally Slam this Saturday,” said one Asheville resident who was enjoying a lunch break downtown. “I will probably find the smallest rally of the bunch to support, because it seems like a tiny rally needs a lot more support and rallying than a really big rally.”

humoR

O D

Dying to gEt a DatE Like many in society’s subgroups, people who work in “death” industries or professions in the U.K. may believe it difficult to reach “like-minded” suitors. Hence, carla valentine established Dead Meet earlier this year and told Vice.com in October that she has drawn 5,000 signups among morticians, coroners, embalmers, cemetery workers, taxidermists, etc., who share her chagrin that “normal” people are often grossed out or too indiscreet to respect the dignity of her industry’s “clients.” We might, said Valentine, need a sensitive companion at the end of the day to discuss a particularly difficult decomposition. Or, she added, perhaps embalmers make better boyfriends because their work with cosmetics helps them understand why “many women take so long to get ready.” can’t possiBLy BE tRuE • A passer-by shooting video in November outside the Lucky River Chinese restaurant in San Francisco caught an employee banging large slabs of frozen meat on the sidewalk — which was an attempt, said the manager, to defrost them. A KPIX-TV reporter, visiting the precise sidewalk area on the video, found it covered in “blackened gum, cigarette butts and foot-tracked bacteria,” but the manager said the worker had been fired and the meat discarded. (The restaurant’s previous health department rating was 88, which qualifies as “adequate.”) • India's Orissa state has established “health camps” to facilitate mass sterilizations to help control the booming population, but procedures were halted in November when Dr. mahesh chandra Rout matter-of-factly told BBC News that camps routinely used ordinary bicycle pumps to inflate women’s abdomens. Orissa’s senior health official immediately ended the practice and ordered sterilizations only in hospitals. (Enlarging the abdomen helps the surgeon to operate, but the proper agent is carbon dioxide.)

by Chuck Shepherd

• The Food and Veterinary Administration of Denmark shut down the food supplier Nordic Ingredients in November after learning that it used an ordinary cement mixer to prepare gelatin products for nursing home and hospital patients unable to swallow whole food. An FVA official told a reporter: “It was an orange cement mixer just like bricklayers use. There were layers (of crusty remains) from previous uses.” As many as 12 facilities, including three hospitals, had food on hand from Nordic Ingredients. govERnmEnt in action • Questionable judgment: assistant attorney general karen straughn of Maryland issued an official warning recently for consumers to watch out for what might be called “the $100 bill on the windshield” scam. (That is, if you notice a $100 bill tucked under your wiper, do not try to retrieve it; it is likely there to trick you into opening your door to a carjacker.) When questioned by WJLA-TV of Washington, D.C., Straughn admitted there were no actual reports of such attempts — and that the story is a well-known urban legend — but nonetheless defended the warning. • Lesson in civics: North Hempstead, N.Y., enforces its dog-littering ordinance with steep $250 fines and streetsign warnings displaying the amount. However, insiders have long known that the signs are wrong — that the written regulation calls for fines of only $25 — and officials have been discussing how to correct their error while still discouraging littering. According to a November WCBS-TV report, now that residents know the actual amount, the debate is whether to replace the erroneous signs (expensive) or just raise the fine 1,000 percent (to $250) and save money. • A November order from China’s State Administration for Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television appears to impose a ban

REaD DaiLy Read News of the Weird daily with Chuck Shepherd at www.weirduniverse.net. Send items to weirdnews@earthlink.net or PO Box 18737, Tampa, Fla. 33679.

on the use of all idioms — including puns — as part of the government’s crackdown on nonstandard language, especially since that discourages children from learning proper vocabulary and grammar. All mass media outlets must “avoid changing the characters, phrasings and meanings” of words — even though, according to the Beijing reporter for London’s The Guardian, Chinese culture is saturated with puns. • As revealed in a spirited public meeting of the Huron Valley, Mich., Board of Education in November, gun-carriers’ freedoms in the state appear complicated, in that a person with training and who submits to state licensing to carry a concealed weapon may carry it even on school grounds (despite the federal GunFree Zones Act of 1990). Michigan’s lawful exception to the act requires concealed permit holders to carry the gun unconcealed, which many parents contend frightens younger children. Also, though it is illegal for anyone alcohol-impaired to carry a gun anywhere, the legal threshold for presumed impairment in Michigan is only 0.02 percent for a licensed permit holder, but probably 0.08 percent for unlicensed “open”carriers (who are not covered by the “concealed” law).

Charles Dickens’

dramatic reading performed by

Jim France

Adults: $8 Children 12 and Under $2

thE continuing cRisis As young professionals have embraced urban neighborhoods, locally grown produce has proliferated in community (and even backyard) gardens and is thought to be healthier than pesticide-laden commercial produce. However, the New York Post revealed in November (based on state health department data) that such gardens in construction-dense New York City are vulnerable to astonishingly high levels of lead and other toxic metals. One community garden in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant, for example, showed levels of lead nearly 20 times the safe level.

Tickets $40-$90 online

wait, what? In November, a clothing store on Yabao Road in Beijing came under criticism for posting a sign, “Chinese Not Admitted,” on its door. An employee told the Beijing Youth Daily newspaper that no one should believe that “we Chinese look down upon ourselves. But some Chinese customers are too annoying.” (A legal scholar told the newspaper that China, except for Hong Kong, has no law against racial or ethnic discrimination.) X

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Featuring Jazz Diva Serpentine Arborvitae and Pianist Alex Taub 7:30pm-9:30pm Dancing to DJ Cosmo Q til’ 4 AM : Swing, Fusion & Blues Passed Hors d’oeuvres & delectable sweet treats Midnight Champagne Toast w/ Champagne keep sake glass Party Favors & 1920’s Party Masks Elegant dress code or period costume suggested

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

W E L L N E S S

Honoring hillfolk hoodoo Byron Ballard keeps Appalachian folk magic practices alive

By susan fostER

susanjfosterphd@gmail.com

Known as Asheville’s village witch, Byron Ballard practices what she calls “hillfolk hoodoo,” a form of Appalachian folk magic. Ballard came by hoodoo naturally, growing up in a poor community in the mountains of Western North Carolina where hoodoo was practiced. She laments that the practice is disappearing: “Local hillfolk are no longer practicing hoodoo, but it’s within living memory. There’s a kind of sadness that the culture of the hillfolk is fading.” Hoodoo is different from voodoo, she explains, even though the words sound alike. Voodoo originated in Haiti and follows the West African Yoruban religious tradition. Hoodoo, on the other hand, is a nonreligious practice with cross-cultural roots. It grew out of the interactions of three cultural groups — the ScotsIrish who immigrated to Western North Carolina, the indigenous Cherokee and the Pennsylvania Dutch (Germans) who migrated to the area through the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. Ballard goes on to say that immigrants from Europe, fleeing religious persecution, settled in isolated mountain coves that gave them the privacy and freedom they sought. Theirs was a hardscrabble way of life, but it gave them independence, she says. In the 1930s, when the textile mills moved into the area, the culture began to shift from agricultural to industrial. The money was better, but it took away the independent streak of the mountain people, who were selling just enough of their cash crop to buy coffee and other goods they couldn’t grow. With contact from outside people, their folk practices began to erode, she continues.

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

“I call myself a forensic folklorist,” says Ballard, “because I’m excavating the practices from older generations.” She aims to preserve what she can of the traditional folk practices, and her book Staubs and Ditchwater is the result of her research into her Southern Highlands roots and its practices. Although Ballard admits she is attempting to dispel the “hillbilly” and “redneck” stereotypes in her book (she prefers “hillfolk” to “hillbilly”), she nevertheless reclaims them: “I am totally a redneck. I grew up wild and poor in the country ... understanding that violence is a way to solve problems. I am stubborn and willful, and I hate authority. I’m always having to suppress my tendencies toward violence.” As the hillfolk culture is thinning, Ballard says, it is also becoming gentrified by “outlanders” — the affluent people who move into the area. These outsiders are hungry for folk traditions that feed them spiritually and are willing to appropriate any of the practices for their own benefit, she says. But she calls this process of stripping away pieces of the local culture by outsiders “cultural strip-mining.” The culture itself gains nothing and is in fact left weaker by the exchange, she says, comparing it to mountaintop removal and clear-cutting. Ballard confesses that she is torn about whether it’s better to let the cultural practices die with the people who practiced them or pass them on to the larger world, which may be able to use them for spiritual and environmental purposes. Although she’s “excavating” a dying culture, she is also actively practicing it, relying on what she learned as a child. Like the “cove doctor” of her forebears, Ballard’s carrying on the tradition of “workings,” or magical spells, to help people heal or get what they want. She gives an example of a working she might do to help someone get a job: “It could require dressing a candle with particularly potent oil and having the person burn it while focusing on their intention to get a new job.” Ballard adds that she tells the person to keep looking for

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foREnsic foLkLoRist: “I’m excavating [folk] practices from older generations,” says Byron Ballard, known as Asheville’s village witch. Photo by Machaela Treadway

a job meanwhile. “This is definitely a belt-and-suspenders type of magic,” she says. Most people who come to her for help want healing work, she notes. “Healing is a big thing. The culture we live in is diseased. Hoodoo can help on a one-to-one basis.” She uses herbs, or “yarbs,” for the healing of many physical ailments, noting that they are often more effective than allopathic remedies.

Ballard tells the story of her daughter, who saw many doctors to get rid of a wart. None of the treatments she received was effective. Finally, she tried bloodroot, an indigenous herb, and the wart went away. Many people in the mountains are known for doing disease-specific healing, Ballard reports. “I had a great aunt who could rub a wart or a mole between her fingers, and it would disappear,” she says. “The whole time

Give the Gift of Health! 10 DAYS $25 she would say something like, ‘I don’t know why people think I can do this,’ and in three days it would be gone.” A characteristic of folk magic, Ballard continues, is that practitioners deny they have the ability to do the healing — perhaps out of humility, acknowledging that the power is merely passing through them. She points out that other hillfolk use a different remedy to remove warts — wrapping the affected area in a dirty dishrag, then counting or saying the Lord’s Prayer, followed by burying the dishrag off the property. Ballard says we often don’t know why traditional folk remedies work. She gives the example of catnip tea, which is given to infants to prevent hives. One theory about how it works, she explains, is that after some of the tea is given to the child, the mother drinks the rest of it. Since it’s a soporific, the mother is more relaxed, which helps her milk production. As a result, the child is healthier from being better nourished. Often Ballard is called upon to do love spells, but she always refuses. “The problem,” she says, “is that they work. And sometimes the person asking for the spell ends up not being as interested as they thought they were, or they draw a person to them in an unhealthy way, such as stalking.” Although hoodoo is not a spiritual or religious practice per se, Ballard notes that it can often involve a spiritual or religious overlay. She says that although there are religious-specific pieces, such as reading a part of the Bible to stop the flow of blood, hoodoo works regardless of the lens that’s used. “Religion can

be an important part of the cultural practice,” she says, but “utilizing the earth energy is what works. It just depends on how you access it. … Hoodoo is about using earth energies in the quest for personal agency. It’s all about moving your position in the world to where you want it to be.” Ballard points out that folk magic practices were developed by cultures in the Old World that lacked a sense of agency. “When you live in a feudal system, you don’t have a lot of access to justice or healing,” she says. “Their practices became a form of peasant medicine and psychology.” When folk magic practices were brought to southern Appalachia, they took hold there as well because they helped provide a sense of personal agency and justice for impoverished mountain dwellers. “The ability to access justice is thin unless you have money and time,” she says, “and the hillfolk had neither.” Acknowledging the issue of class and economics in the discussion of folk magic “honors the people who developed and practiced it, who are either our literal blood ancestors or ... our spiritual and practice ancestors,” she says. “It honors them to say they were not people of great means for whom personal agency was easy.” Ballard continues the tradition of using hoodoo to bring about justice. “I don’t work for peace. I work for justice,” she says. “I believe, and I think tribal people in Europe believed, that when you have justice, peace is a byproduct of that.” Ballard teaches local courses about hoodoo. Information about them can be found on her Facebook page, Asheville’s Village Witch, or at myvillagewitch.com. X

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wellness creative relaXation™ for kids (pd.) Wednesdays 4:15-5:00, @ Black Mountain Yoga Center. Therapeutic yoga for children with special needs. www.becreativeyoga.com. Contact Brandon Hudson to register, 828-230-6081, bbhudson30@ gmail.com

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red cross Blood drives redcrosswnc.org Appointment and ID required. • TH (12/18), 1-5pm - Appointments & info: 667-3950. Held at Francis Asbury United Methodist Church, 725 Asbury Rd., Candler • TU (12/23), noon-5pm - Appointments & info: 800-733-2767. Held at Chick-fil-A, 170 Merrimon Ave.

support groups adult children of alcoholics & dysfunctional faMilies For people who grew up in an alcoholic or otherwise dysfunctional home. Info: adultchildren.org. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. al-anon/ alateen faMily group A support group for the family and friends of alcoholics. Info: wnc-alanon.org or 800286-1326. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. alcoholics anonyMous For a full list of meetings in WNC, call 2548539 or aancmco.org. asheville woMen for soBriety 215-536-8026, www.womenforsobriety.org • THURSDAYS, 6:30-8pm – YWCA of Asheville, 185 S. French Broad Ave.

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asperger’s adults united meetup.com/aspergersadultsunited • 2nd & 4th SATURDAYS, 2-4pm - Held at Hyphen, 81 Patton Ave. Occasionally meets additional Saturdays. Contact for details. asperger’s teens united facebook.com/groups/ AspergersTeensUnited

• SATURDAYS, 6-9pm – For teens (13-19) and their parents. Meets every 3 weeks starting June 28. chronic pain support deb.casaccia@gmail.com or 989-1555 • 2nd SATURDAYS, 12:30pm – Held in a private home. Contact for directions. codependents anonyMous 398-8937 • TUESDAYS, 8pm - Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1340-A Patton Avenue • WEDNESDAYS, 7-8pm & SATURDAYS, 11am-12:15 pm - First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St. Use back door. deBtors anonyMous debtorsanonymous.org • MONDAYS, 7pm – First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St., Room 101 depression and Bipolar support alliance magneticminds.weebly.com or 367-7660 • WEDNESDAYS, 7pm & SATURDAYS, 4pm – 1316-C Parkwood Road diaBetes support laura.tolle@msj.org or 213-4788 • 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 3:30pm – Mission Health, 1 Hospital Drive. Room 3-B. eating disorder support groups Info: thecenternc.weebly.com or 337-4685. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. electro-sensitivity support For electrosensitive individuals. For location and info contact hopefulandwired@ gmail.com or 255-3350. eMotions anonyMous For anyone desiring to live a healthier emotional life. Info: 631-434-5294 • TUESDAYS, 7pm – Oak Forest Presbyterian Church, 880 Sandhill Road food addicts anonyMous 423-6191 or 301-4084 • THURSDAYS, 6pm – Asheville 12-Step Club, 1340A Patton Ave. heart of recovery Meditation group Teaches how to integrate meditation with any 12-step recovery program. asheville. shambhala.org • TUESDAYS, 6pm - Shambhala Meditation Center, 19 Westwood Place. heart support For individuals living with heart failure. 274-6000. • 1st TUESDAYS, 2-4pm – Asheville Cardiology Associates, 5 Vanderbilt Drive. living with chronic pain Hosted by American Chronic Pain Association; 776-4809 • 2nd WEDNESDAYS, 6:30 pm – Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston Ave. MeMory loss caregivers For caregivers of those with memory loss or dementia. network@memorycare.org • 2nd TUESDAYS, 9:30am – Highland Farms Retirement Community, 200 Tabernacle Road, Black Mountain

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Men working on life’s issues 273-5334 or 231-8434 • TUESDAYS, 6-8pm – Held in a private home. Contact for directions. Mission health faMily group night For caregivers of children with social health needs or development concerns. 213-9787 • 1st TUESDAYS, 5:30pm – Mission Reuter Children’s Center, 11 Vanderbilt Park Drive. nar-anon faMily groups For relatives and friends concerned about the addiction or drug problem of a loved one. Info: nar-anon.org. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. national alliance on Mental illness For people living with mental health issues and their loved ones. Info: namiwnc.org or 505-7353. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. overcoMers of doMestic violence For anyone who is dealing with physical and/or emotional abuse. 665-9499. • WEDNESDAYS, noon-1pm – First Christian Church, 470 Enka Lake Road, Candler. overeaters anonyMous Info: 258-4821. Visit mountainx.com/support for full listings. recovering couples anonyMous For couples where at least one member is recovering from addiction. Info: recoveringcouples.org • MONDAYS, 6pm – Foster Seventh Day Adventists Church, 376 Hendersonville Road. s-anon faMily groups For those affected by another’s sexaholism. Four confidential meetings are available weekly in WNC. For dates, times and locations contact wncsanon@gmail.com or 258-5117. sMart recovery Helps individuals gain independence from all types of addictive behavior. Visit mountainx. com/support for full listings. strength in survivorship For cancer survivors. Strengthinsurvivorship@ yahoo.com or 808-7673 • 1st & 3rd SATURDAYS, 11am-noon – Mills River Library, 124 Town Drive, Mills River sunrise peer support volunteer services facebook.com/Sunriseinasheville • TUESDAYS through THURSDAYS, 1-3pm - Drop-in center offering peer support services for mental health and substance use issues and wellness. Held at Kairos West Community Center, 742 Haywood Road sylva grief support Hosted by Four Seasons Compassion for Life. melee@fourseasonscfl.org • TUESDAYS, 10:30am - Jackson County Department on Aging, 100 Country Services Park, Sylva underearners anonyMous underearnersanonymous.org • TUESDAYS, 6pm – First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St., Room 102 To add information about your support group, call 251-1333, ext. 114. Support groups must be free of charge to be listed.

F O O D

Brunch City, U.S.A. It’s breakfast, it’s lunch, and it’s becoming Asheville’s quintessential weekend meal

By hayLEy BEnton

hbenton@mountainx.com

Walking through the streets of downtown Asheville on a chilly Sunday morning, it’s hard not to be tempted by the smell of fresh-roasted coffee wafting from inside cracked doors. Outside, eye-catching rows of sandwich boards line the sidewalk. “Lobster omelette; local eggs,” reads one. “Fresh-squeezed pomegranate mimosa,” reads another, adorned with a colorful chalk-drawing of a tasty-looking drink. “Breakfast pizza with chorizo,” boasts a third. There is no doubt that Asheville loves its brunch. But what exactly is brunch, and why is it taking over Sunday mornings? Everyone seems to have a loose idea of what “brunch” means — half breakfast, half lunch with relaxation and a mimosa. And maybe that’s fine, an unstructured definition for a casual and unstructured meal. “For me, it’s the epitome of Sunday morning,” says Brigett Bolding, general manager at Sunny Point Café. “You get to sleep in; you don’t have to get up and rush to make breakfast. You can go somewhere because you’ve got the time.” Customers come in to open their eyes after a late night on Saturday, sip on some coffee and plan out their day, Bolding adds. It’s a time to eat a filling meal before deciding which hiking trail to explore. carson Lucci, owner of Over Easy Café, agrees. “Being that it’s a weekend and a daytime activity, it’s easier for people to get together and talk about last night’s thing,” she says. “It’s almost therapeutic, because, you know, you’re there with your friends — or you’re there alone interacting with the staff. You get this socializa-

sunny siDE saLaD: Brunch can be breakfast, it can be lunch — or it can be anything in between. Sunny Point’s breakfast salad is one dish that bridges the gap between meals. Photo courtesy of Sunny Point Café

tion and this sense of, ‘I did something today!’ right off the bat.” Lines out the door are nothing new at local spots like Sunny Point, Over Easy and Tupelo Honey, but now it seems Sunday brunch is popping up wherever you go. “I was worried about it at one point, because I was like, ‘Oh gosh, we’re going to lose all this business,’” Lucci says. “But there are so many people that are out looking for brunch on the weekends, so I’m grateful that [there are plenty of places that serve it]. I only have 42 seats in my restaurant. I can’t serve everyone downtown, and neither can Early Girl or Mayfel’s. I don’t feel like we’re competing with each other, because we’re doing different styles of brunch. Everywhere is really unique.” “I’ve found myself thinking, ‘Where am I going to go?’” says josephine woody, one of the own-

ers at Isis Restaurant and Music Hall, which has been serving brunch for a little more than a year. “There are so many good brunch spots here — Market Place just started a brunch, Limones, Cúrate. There are the ones that just, for some reason, you don’t think of” earlier in the day. And it’s nice to have a variety to pick from in a town like Asheville, because, Woody says, “No one wants to wait in line when you’re hungry — or hung over and hungry. I’ll start eating my arm if I have to wait 45 minutes,” she says with a laugh. “You can never have too many options.”

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jess Reiser from Burial Beer Co., which recently started hosting jazz brunch on Sundays, agrees on the wait. “We have kids, and whenever we try to go out to brunch on weekends — if we don’t get there by like 9 or 10 a.m., we just can’t, because the wait is too long. In our childless years, it wouldn’t have mattered,” she laughs. “But now it’s kind of a deal-breaker. So we wanted to open [Burial] up [at noon] for families who might not get that early start.” Chef peter pollay at Posana Café sees locals and tourists alike dine in for Sunday brunch. Posana, wellknown for its dinner menu, began offering a brunch right after opening, after seeing the demand downtown. “We love our brunch in this town,” he says. “It’s just like one of those casual meals. You just go out — you can pick anywhere — have some coffee, read the newspaper, have some good food. “There are really no expectations. Like if you’re going out to dinner, there’s expectations about what you’re supposed to talk about, how you’re supposed to talk, if you’re on a date or not. But for brunch, you just go eat, hang out, have good conversation and start your day at a leisurely pace. “We just kind of want to be a part of someone’s weekend,” he says. “Make it nice and relaxing to rejuvenate people and get them ready for the daily grind again that usually starts on Monday.”

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

fooD

by Hayley Benton

Brunch is a meal that lends itself to holiday gatherings, both as a leisurely follow-up to Christmas morning gift opening or a nourishing recovery from a festive New Year’s Eve. Here, local chefs offer some recipes to help make brunch at home as tasty as brunch on the town.

Sunny Point Café’s carrot hot cakes with cardamom cream cheese

hbenton@mountainx.com

Sunny Point Café’s carrot hot cakes (enough for 4 to 6 hungry people)

2 large eggs 2 cups whole milk 3 ounces unsalted butter, melted and cooled 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon baking powder 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup granulated sugar 4 cups peeled and finely grated carrots 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Whisk together eggs, milk and butter in a large mixing bowl. In a second bowl sift the salt, baking soda, baking powder and flour. Stir the sugar, carrots and cinnamon into the eggs and milk then add the dry ingredients and mix together until just combined. Preheat a griddle over medium high heat, lightly oil and add batter to pan in small batches being careful not to overwhelm the pan so it stays hot. Eat as you cook or hold in a 200-degree oven and serve topped with cardamon cream cheese and warm maple syrup. caRDamom cREam chEEsE 12 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 ounces unsalted butter at room temperature 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cardamom 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and combine on low speed using a paddle attachment until just combined.

Strada’s Sicilian egg 1 1/2 pounds mild Italian sausage, casings removed 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 hard-boiled eggs, shells removed 1 cup potato flakes 1/2 cup flour 1 beaten egg Tomato mustard (recipe follows) In a large bowl combine the sausage. Divide into four portions and on a sheet of waxed paper, shape each portion into a thin round. Place one hard-boiled egg on the sausage round and wrap to enclose the egg, patting gently to smooth the surface. Season the bread crumbs with salt and pepper. Dredge the sausagewrapped egg in the flour, then dip in the egg and roll in the bread crumbs until well coated. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to cook. In a deep fryer or large heavy skillet, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350 degrees. Fry the eggs, two at a time until golden brown and crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving. Strada’s Sicilian egg with tomato mustard

To see recipes for cheesy cauliflower patties from the DeSoto Lounge, jalapeño biscuits from the Market Place and an autumn frittata from Posana Café, visit mountainx.com.

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

mountainx.com

tomato mustaRD 2 pounds cherry or grape tomatoes, halved 1/3 cup red wine vinegar, plus more to taste 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste 1/3 cup granulated sugar 3 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoon whole-grain Dijon mustard 3 dried bay leaves Put the tomatoes, vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, tomato paste and mustard in a food processor and process until the tomatoes are broken down. Transfer the contents to a large saucepan, add the bay leaves, bring the liquid to a boil, reduce the heat to medium, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, begin stirring more frequently until the mustard thickens and very little liquid remains, approximately 15 minutes more. Remove from heat and take out the bay leaves. Give it a taste. It should taste bright, sweet and vibrant, like ketchup. If it’s a little flat, add a touch more vinegar and retaste. Allow to cool before serving.

stoRy continuED fRom pagE 25

Brunch is becoming such a staple of Asheville weekends that even the bars are interested in being part of the morning. DeSoto’s in West Asheville, though it functions primarily as a bar, has also joined in for Saturday chicken and waffles and Sunday brunch. “I have fun with it,” says co-owner sabrina white. “I see a recipe or get an idea from a book, and I just go crazy with it. We decided to do a little twist and make a chicken-and-waffle sandwich, add an egg and cheese. The weirder the better, I think, in this town.” White also mentions DeSoto’s “breakfast stack,” which changes weekly. Think pot roast, gravy, fried egg, cheese, a leafy green and a slice of bacon stacked on top of a cathead biscuit. “It’s probably six inches off the plate,” White adds, laughing. “[DeSoto] just seems like a good alternative if you don’t want to go to the usual spots,” White says. “I mean, like, if I’m hung over, I want to be in a darker spot; I don’t want to be around noise as much. It’s just a different atmosphere. Like, ‘OK, I’m just going to chill in here for a couple hours and hide from the world.’” And when most people think brunch, barbecue and Italian aren’t exactly what come to mind. But Luella’s Bar-B-Que offers its own spin on Sundays, and Strada downtown gives brunch an Italian twist. “When we approach brunch, we come at it from the traditions of Southern cooking,” says jeff miller, owner of Luella’s. “While we are a barbecue restaurant, we try to bring a flair to that to make it work for something like brunch. “Smoked meats and heartier flavors go well with a lot of the sweet stuff that’s associated with brunch. I would not have suspected that pork, potatoes and collard greens would taste good with scrambled eggs. But it actually is remarkably awesome.” Luella’s usually offers live music (primarily gypsy-jazz) to go along with the ambiance of the Sunday morning meal — as do a plethora of other Asheville establishments. In the future, the Woody family, who collectively owns Isis, say they would like to see brunch accompanied by a live gospel choir. “It doesn’t feel like you’re going to step on toes

if you’re talking. Just a loud, musical brunch so you can rejoice like it’s Sunday church, but for the sinners.” “Not that we’re sinners,” she quickly adds, laughing. “But you got your mimosas and your bloody Mary’s. It’s like sinners’ church.” On that note, alcoholic beverages have somehow become an integral (although not necessary) part of the essence of brunch. “Well, Asheville’s got a pretty huge music scene,” says Bolding at Sunny Point. “And a lot of times when you’re going out and seeing music, there tends to be drinking involved. So when people can get out for the morning, they want that something to sort of take the edge off.” And, she says with a smile, “Having a drink at noon definitely signifies a nonwork day. I mean, you can say, ‘I don’t have to do anything critical today because I had a drink at noon.’” Pollay at Posana agrees. “Of course, we all have some responsibilities afterward,” he says. “But hopefully nothing too pressing. You have the day off, and you can enjoy it. You don’t have to get ready for something else; you just go out and enjoy the company you’re with.” And the company is a huge part of what makes brunch special. “That’s really what it is,” explains teri siegel, owner of Avenue M on Merrimon. “It’s just feeding the neighborhood and paralleling what Asheville wants, which is no different than what I personally want. We try to have a little something for everybody, so that if you’re a vegetarian, and he’s a meat eater, then everyone can be happy.” So what exactly is brunch, foodwise? Is it breakfast? Is it lunch? “Well that’s why they call it brunch, right? It parallels both,” says william Dissen, owner of Market Place on Wall Street. “On the weekends, we have folks staying out late and starting the day later — they may want more breakfast items. And then you have folks out and about and shopping that are interested in something a little more middle-ofthe-day lunch-oriented. “So I think that’s kind of the beauty of brunch, is that you have the best of both worlds,” Dissen adds. And though there are enough restaurants in Asheville to sample a different place every Sunday, Woody at Isis explains, “You find your favorites, and that’s your comfort zone. You want it every time you go. I have my one spot where I can get my fresh-squeezed mimosa. Nothing too complicated — nothing should be complicated on Sunday.” X

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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by Kat McReynolds

kmcreynolds@mountainx.com

Korean House gets grilling After a year of delays, the downtown restaurant is rolling out traditional Korean tabletop cooking Where there’s a grill, there’s a way — particularly for Korean House coowner jayson im. After nearly a year of permitting struggles, the restaurateur is thrilled to debut his fleet of 10 tabletop grills on Friday, Dec. 19. “We’re happy that we finally get to introduce Korean barbecue to Asheville for the first time,” says Im, explaining that the do-it-yourself method of food preparation is the cornerstone of Korean barbecuing and was the inspiration for opening Korean House. thE stoRy so faR “The biggest holdup was the ventilation system,” says Im, “but we were able to work it out with the city [of Asheville].” Permit process manager Diane meek, according to Im, was the primary force driving the project through the permitting process and was also the originator

In keeping with the tradition of freshness, Korean House is also upgrading all of its meats — which were already free-range, non-GMO products — by sourcing from Fairview-based Hickory Nut Gap Farm.

of the idea to use electric grills instead of gas units. “When we got the new grills, we were able to bypass all of those problems that we were having,” says Im, likening the swap to upgrading from a 2G phone to a smartphone. The new infrared grills are 99 percent smokeless and preheat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit in two minutes. Im says investing significant time and resources toward pioneering the concept in Asheville caused struggles in year one, but he expects an uptick in business to justify those efforts. The entrepreneur is currently retraining and expanding his staff to ensure a smooth transition.

a sEconD gRanD opEning

authEntic koREan fooD Korean food isn’t about culinary theatrics, according to Im, who says Korean meals are slow, communal affairs. Restaurant patrons typically cook portions of their food sporadically between socializing, which draws out the experience. “That’s the whole point,” says Im, explaining that the goal is to “cook just the right amount you want to eat, talk, drink and then cook some more.” Im says full service will be offered at the table, but guests shouldn’t expect any “flame mountains.”

A GIFT

for everyone on your list

Olive Garden gift cards for the holidays

fiRE it up: Korean House co-owner and chef Kristina Im, left, and server Maya Fitzdare get cooking at one of the restaurant’s new tabletop grills. Photo by Jayson Im

Korean food emphasizes freshness above all else, and Im describes the fare as having “a lot less oil involved and a lot more fresh vegetables,” compared to Chinese food. Although Korean grilling usually involves meat-based entrees, Im is working with his sister and business partner, kristina im, to create grilled vegetarian mains like house-made tempeh to augment the eatery’s veggie-laden sides.

“A lot of people have been waiting for this,” says Im, remarking that he gets regular calls from locals who have heard about the initial restaurant concept and want grill updates. “We’re finally going back to our original plan.” Reservations are highly recommended since each of the 10 grills seats only five people. During weekends and until demand slows, Im will favor grilling parties of four or more, but smaller groups will likely be able to char their own entrees to perfection on weekdays after the holidays. Parties of any size — even lone diners — are welcome to order food prepared in the kitchen any day of the week. Once the new cooking machines are integrated into the regular service, Im hopes to tackle even more improvements. A sizable and largely unused space downstairs (with roughly the same capacity as upstairs) will come into use on Fridays and Saturdays and host a full liquor bar by early next year. Parties of six or more are invited to use another private seating area tucked away from the main tables downstairs, and Im also plans to adorn restaurant walls with local artwork in the near future. X Korean House is at 122 College St. Call 785-1500 for reservations or visit koreanhousenc.com for more information.

InnovatIve, SeaSonally InSpIred, new amerIcan cuISIne

121 Tunnel Road Asheville NC 28805 828-255-9887 We accept reservations every day. 28

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Chef Duane fernanDes brings his Culinary finesse to the heart of Downtown asheville. weekly speCials. open Daily.

1 Battery Park Ave. | Asheville NC 28801 | 828-575-9636 info@isasbistro.com | isasbistro.com Complimentary valet parking available at the Haywood Park Hotel.

fooD

by Jonathan Ammons

jonathanammons@gmail.com

Shut up and play the hits Some local chefs say a popular dish can be a double-edged knife For Led Zeppelin, it’s “Stairway to Heaven,” for Outkast, it will forever be “Hey Ya!” And you know that Nick Cave will never be able to take the stage without playing another rendition of “Mercy Seat.” It’s the monster hit, the one you just can’t get away from. None of these artists are one-hit wonders, by any means, but despite the depth of their musical catalogs, they all have one song that, if left unplayed at a show, will leave fans outraged. So they do it for the masses, no matter how sick of playing it they are. “The hits for me are hands down the fried chicken and crumpet with black pepper gravy, and the f**king burger,” says chef steven goff of King James Public House. “We joke about being a sh**ty fried chicken shack or burger stand because of the exorbitant sums of those items we sell. Definitely the kitchen’s least favorite items to make.” In a city like Asheville, it’s safe to say that just about every chef who sticks around will be stuck with one such hit. And it’s usually not the one they expected it to be. “As a chef, sometimes you put hours of your time and your heart and soul into creating the perfect dish, only for it to be too creative for the masses,” says chef william Dissen of the Market Place Restaurant, “but sometimes you find success in a dish that you throw together last minute for a special and guests love it. And sometimes it’s just a crapshoot.” For Dissen, the hit is a handmade pappardelle pasta dish served with lamb shank ragout, roasted oyster mushrooms, and confit tomatoes with basil pesto and parmesan. After trying to remove it from the menu, he sensed a brewing mutiny. “I thought I had a revolt on my hands the next week from my guests and waitstaff,” he remembers. Needless to say, dish is back on the menu. Meanwhile, over at Chai Pani, “Oh god! The kale pakoras and okra fries,” says chef meherwan

up in fLamEs: Brussels sprouts are a popular menu item at Seven Sows Bourbon & Larder — so much so that executive chef Mike Moore’s romance with the veggie is waning. Photo by Cindy Kunst

irani. “Any time there is an article on Chai Pani, they don’t want to talk about this amazing 15th century recipe that I got from some grandma in India for pork vindaloo ... they always want to cover the kale pakoras and the okra fries. You start to realize: We’re never going to get away from this, and in fact, we’re going to be defined by it. But I have only myself to blame. I mean, I made it.” It’s hard to pinpoint where the actual root of the problem begins. So Mick Jagger is tired of singing “Satisfaction” every time he takes the stage, but it makes him millions. Sure, he could choose to never play his hits and stick to obscure deep cuts. But then, he too might die poverty-stricken and with no health care like Alex Chilton — the singer of the Box Tops and Big Star, who toiled in relative obscurity because he refused to play his only commercial hit, “The Letter.” “F**king Brussels sprouts and fried chicken, dude,” complains mike moore of Seven Sows. “Who would have ever thought I’d get sick of my grandmother’s beautiful fried chicken?” The great fear goes back to what Irani said, that the hit is what will

ultimately define you. That all your work, creativity, knowledge, constant learning, self-criticism and growth will be reduced to a crispy fried snack or a burger. That what you will be remembered for is not what you set out to accomplish. “I love burgers and fried chicken, I just don’t want to make it all day every day,” says Goff. He put a burger on his menu as an afterthought, when he had some extra trimmings from steaks, and much to his chagrin, it never left the menu. “People demanded it, so I sold my soul. I die a little inside each time we sell a fried chicken or burger.” “Cruel to be Kind” wasn’t Nick Lowe’s best song or his only hit, but it will always be his calling card. In the same way, many diners will pop in and out of Asheville restaurants only tasting the top sellers and “best of,” often missing the truly inspired work of really great chefs. So why not take a chance, try something new, or even ask a server what’s special on the menu or what they’ve been working on? You might be surprised by a delectable deep cut. X

Join us for dinner featuring NYE menu 5-10:30 pm.

DJ RA MAK

CHAMPAGNE

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DANCING

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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gsmith@mountainx.com

as sEEn on tv: Lex 18’s new “Downton Abbey” dinner events will allow diners to experience a vintage banquet complete with butlers, footmen and interactions with a few characters from the popular British television show. Photo by Hayley Benton

by Gina Smith The menu was designed by Lex 18’s new chef, Daniel kaufmann, formerly of the Woodfin restaurant Magnolia Ray, which closed several months ago. Courses for the Jan. 4 dinner will include watercress soup, lobster rissoles with mousseline sauce, beef bourguignon, and fennel and orange salad with toasted walnuts, golden raisins, endive and orange vinaigrette. Each course will be paired with historic cocktails and wines, Champagne and liqueurs appropriate to the era. Coffee, tea, sherry, port and cognac will be offered after dinner. The menu will change each week. WCQS will enter all who contribute to its year-end pledge drive by Dec. 31 into a drawing to win a pair of VIP tickets to one of the banquets. Details are available at wcqs.org. “Downton Abbey” dinners will be held 6:30-10:30 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 4-March 1 at Lex 18, 18 Lexington Ave. Tickets that include dinner, cocktails, wine and liqueur are $83 each. Tickets for the dinner alone are $56 each. Seating is limited to 16 guests per evening. Lex18avl.com 12 Days of giving

Downton aBBEy in Downtown ashEviLLE The new year will bring a fresh dinner theater experience to Asheville — one that will be of particular interest to fans of the British television series “Downton Abbey.” On Sunday evenings starting Jan. 4, downtown restaurant Lex 18 will offer live viewings of the popular BBC program while re-creating an

melaasheville.com

aristocratic 1920s meal, complete with butlers, footmen and a fivecourse dinner served on a 16-foot banquet table with period china and crystal. Representatives from radio station WCQS, which is co-hosting the events, will highlight local history during the pre-dinner cocktail hour by providing a short talk comparing music, arts, fashion and culture in 1920s Asheville and England — especially appropriate considering the restaurant is housed in a historic building that served as a speakeasy during Prohibition. A cast of local actors will portray Asheville versions of “Downton Abbey” characters who will participate in the meal and interact with guests, says Lex 18 co-owner and general manager georgia malki. Guests are encouraged to come in period costume. “The idea of going to a party and dressing up like Lady Cybill, being served a feast by footmen and catered to by butlers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Malki said in a press release. “Our establishment attempts to curate this part of history by bringing Appalachian life of the 1920s alive.”

70 N. LexiNgtoN aveNue 828.225.8880 30

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Last December, downtown businesses Curate, Bouchon, Wicked Weed, 5 Walnut, Scully’s and Izzy’s Coffee Den joined forces with public relations firm Adapt to launch the 12 Days of Giving program in an effort to raise funds for local organizations that aid the homeless. This year’s effort, which runs Dec. 18-31, features more than 30 local restaurants, breweries, bars and food businesses offering 10 percent of the proceeds from sales of a designated item to benefit the Haywood Street Congregation, Western Carolina Rescue Ministries and AshevilleBuncombe Community Christian Ministries. In addition, the program now has a 12 Days of Giving trail map, which will highlight individual participating businesses along with their chosen items. 12daysasheville.com high fivE coffEE BaR pLans sEconD Location High Five Coffee Bar owner jay weatherly will open a second store this spring downtown at 13 Rankin St., the previous home of Duncan & York. Weatherly reports that he is still in the preliminary planning

stages of the project but is looking at sticking with coffee and espresso service similar to what he already has at his current location on Broadway, just north of downtown. But there may be a few surprises. “We may bring in some new things,” Weatherly says. “At this point, we’re just seeing how it goes.” Work begins on the space in January, and Weatherly is shooting for an opening “sometime between April and July.” highfivecoffee.com sEvEn sows DinnER anD sEED swap Seven Sows Bourbon & Larder is hosting a holiday farm-totable dinner with a nod to winter dreams of spring gardens: Guests are invited to bring heirloom seeds for swapping. The restaurant’s Facebook page says the event is an effort to “celebrate the holidays with a farm-to-table menu thanking our founding farmers for this year’s growing season.” The dinner is $65 and will feature a fivecourse menu with wine pairings. 6-9:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, Seven Sows Bourbon & Larder, 77 Biltmore Ave., Suite 111. Reservations on Eventbrite or call 255-2592 X

food writer Jonathan aMMons lets us in on his favorite dish du Jour. The bologna sandwich at Woolworth Soda Fountain: Just like grandma used to make and crazy affordable. Woolworth’s behemoth sandwich features a thick 1/2inch cut of bologna, cheese, mustard, mayo, tomato, onion and comes with a side (I suggest the potato or pasta salad). It makes for quite a sufficient lunch for around $5. — Jonathan Ammons

mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

fooD

Send your beer news to avlbeerscout@gmail.com or @thomohearn on Twitter.

by Thom O’Hearn

The gift of brew Over at Asheville Brewers Supply, owner andy Dahm is offering a discounted “Ho-Ho-Ho-Homebrew” kit, which includes all the basic equipment as well as a 3-gallon kettle and the ingredients needed to make about two cases of beer. Asheville Brewers doesn’t package classes with the brewing kit, but it does offer free brewing classes twice a month. Irish stout is the next one up, on Sunday, Dec. 21, then the next two classes follow on Saturday, Jan. 3, and Sunday, Jan. 18.

Updates and shopping suggestions from Asheville’s bottle shops and homebrew stores

If your favorite way to shop is at home in your pajamas, there’s some good news this holiday season: You can now buy beer from Bruisin’ Ales that way as well. “We’ve shipped beer for years, but it was becoming unmanageable to keep doing it by email and phone,” says co-owner julie atallah. So when the store needed to update its point-of-sale system, it just made sense to go with an option that included e-commerce. One of the main advantages of the custom store is that it functions as a sort of discovery engine. Bruisin’ Ales’ e-commerce site helps customers find not only the beers they want but also new brews they might like to try, she says. Thanks to listings with commercial descriptions, style information, ABV and plenty of other data, once you’re on the site, you can search for almost anything. Trying to find that beer you had in Florida? Filter by state. Or if you’re looking for a sour beer, just search for one. “With more than 1,150 items instock and listed online, even we can miss a good recommendation on the fly,” says Atallah. “So it’s an amazing resource for our own team as well.” Once you’ve found the beers you want, you can ship them to your house for a fee. However, for locals who want to save a few dollars, local pickup is just a check box away. Going from online to in-person, Appalachian Vintner is in the midst of a large expansion. Once staff finishes installing the remaining shelves, the store will have nearly 2,000 bottles in stock — up about 700 from before the expansion, says co-owner geoff alexander. Appalachian is also keeping 21 beers on draft, including soughtafter selections like Stone’s Enjoy By IPA and Allagash Confluence. But the focus this holiday season is on giving back, says Alexander. “Every year we have a silent auction that ben-

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

santa’s suRE things

suDs on thE smaLL scREEn: Bruisin’ Ales’ updated inventory system enabled a new website as well as check-out via iPad at the shop. Pictured is owner Julie Atallah. Photo by Thom O’Hearn

efits multiple local charities. This year we’re giving to Art for Life and Mission Children’s Hospital,” he says. The auction will include rare, out-of-market beers, including some from Russian River Brewing, as well as limited-edition local beers, merchandise and more. Alexander also recommends a gift certificate for barrel-aged beer lovers. “We have eight wine barrels with Wicked Weed and another three brandy barrels filled at Olde Hickory,” he says. “All of that barrel-aged beer will be back here [in the new year] and part of the proceeds will go to charity.” Alexander, who has a son on the autism spectrum, is spearheading a new autism-related charity that will benefit from the barrel-program sales. “We could sponsor a kid for summer school, buy art supplies for after-school programs. … We’ll try to sponsor a good variety of things,” he says. fRom BEER to BREwing If the beer lovers on your list seem ready to take their obsession to the

mountainx.com

next level, perhaps it’s time to shop at one of the area’s homebrew stores. At Hops and Vines, owner alex Buerckholtz is offering a combination gift for the beginning brewer. The deluxe equipment kit, which includes all the equipment needed to brew that first batch except the kettle, can be purchased together with a two-part homebrew class at a discounted price through Christmas Eve. “We brew at the shop and we go through the whole process,” says Buerckholtz. “The nice thing about seeing it done is that you’re almost guaranteed to brew good beer on your first batch. … There’s much less risk of trying something and having it not work out, or thinking brewing is not for you [because of a bad batch].” Since every class meets once to brew, then again a few weeks later to bottle, there’s another benefit for students. Everyone leaves the class with a six-pack of beer. Upcoming Sunday class options include New Zealand IPA on Dec. 28, black IPA on Jan. 11 and double red ale on Jan 25.

Bruisin’ Ales and Appalachian Vintner both say a gift certificate is the easiest way to please the beer nerd on your list. Atallah also recommends Bruisin’ branded Oowee pint glass koozies made from upcycled leather or a brand-new Bruisin’ hoodie. Hops and Vines says a Big Mouth Bubbler will bring a smile to any homebrewer. The containers are an upgrade to classic carboys, which are used to store beer that’s fermenting or conditioning. They feature wide openings at the top — which makes cleaning easier. X

O N

wednesday altaMont: Live music: Dave Desmelik hosts “Songwriters in the Round,” 8:30pm asheville Brewing: New brew: Wild South IBA, collab w/ French Broad Brewing; $3.50 all pints at Coxe location; “Whedon Wednesday’s” at Merrimon location french Broad: $7 growler fills leXington ave (laB): $3 pints all day one world: Live music: Beats & Brews w/ D.J. Whistleblower (trip-hop, downtempo) open: New brew: Westy IV collab w/ Thom O’Hearn & Matt Kane

oskar Blues: Wednesday night bike ride, 6pm; Beer Run w/ Wild Bill (group run into Pisgah), 6pm

southern appalachian: Ugly Sweater show w/ Live music: The Stipe Brothers & Dan Ruiz (pop, rock), 8pm

oyster house: $2 off growler fills

wedge: Food truck: El Kimchi (Korean/ Mexican street food)

wedge: Food truck: Root Down (comfort food, Cajun)

thursday

asheville Brewing: $3.50 pints at Merrimon location

Burial: Jazz brunch w/ The Mandelkorn George Project, noon (until food runs out)

oskar Blues: Live music: Chris Smith (singer-songwriter), 6pm

hi-wire: Bend & Brew Yoga ($15, includes beer tasting), 12:15pm

southern appalachian: Live music: Carver & Carmody (blues, Americana, folk), 7pm

leXington ave (laB): Live music: Bluegrass brunch; $10 pitchers all day

friday altaMont: Live music: Phuncle Sam (Grateful Dead covers), 9:30pm catawBa tasting rooM: New brew: Scott’s Birthday Reserve IPA (Firewater IPA w/ El Dorado dry hops); Coat drive (donate your old coats); Live music: Bradley Carter, 5pm highland: New brew: 20th anniversity Weizenbock Ale release; Live music: Doc Aquatic (indie psych-rock), 6:30pm leXington ave (laB): New brew: Confession Dark Belgian Strong (w/ caramelized beet & date sugars)

oyster house: $5 mimosas & bloody Marys southern appalachian: Live music: Todd Hoke Band (folk, Americana), 5pm

1/2 Price Hot Sake Every Monday

Monday altaMont: Live music: Old-time jam, 8pm

7 DAYS LUNCH & DINNER 640 MERRIMON AVE. SUITE 205, ASHEVILLE • 828-225-6033 WWW.ZEN-SUSHI-ASHEVILLE.COM

Saturday and Sunday $5 MiMosas & bloodies

$12/ dozen Mon-Fri 3-6pm! (828) 575-9370 625 Haywood Rd • West Asheville Mon-Thur 3-11 • Fri 3-12 • Sat 12-12 • Sun 12-11 oysterhousebeers.com

asheville Brewing: New brew: NeoNitro Stout collab w/ home-brewer Jason catawBa: Mixed-Up Mondays: beer infusions french Broad: $2.50 pints oskar Blues: Mountain Music Mondays, 6pm

HOLIDAY SPECIAL COUPON

OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY AND NEW YEAR’S DAY (for dinner only)

oyster house: $3 pint night thirsty Monk BiltMore park: New brew: CocoNorm Toasted Coconut Porter

asheville Brewing: $2.50 Tuesday: $2.50 one-topping jumbo pizza slices & house cans (both locations) catawBa: $2 off growler fills hi-wire: $2.50 house pints

oskar Blues: New brew: Pinner Throwback IPA; Live music: Doug Gibson (blues), 6pm; Food truck: CHUBWagon

highland: Bend & Brew Yoga ($15, includes beer tasting), 5:30pm

oyster house: $5 mimosas & bloody Marys

wedge: Food truck: Tin Can Pizzeria

oyster house: Cask night

WWW.ZEN-SUSHI-ASHEVILLE.COM

altaMont: Live music: Open mic w/ Jam Samwich, 8:30pm

10% OFF

wedge: Food truck: El Kimchi (Korean/ Mexican street food)

ON CHRISTMAS DAY NEW YEAR’S DAY

highland: Holiday Medley Winter Celebration (multicultural event), 2-9pm; Live music: One Leg Up (jazz, Latin), 6:30pm; Food trucks: Tin Can Pizzeria, Root Down

HOT SAkE SPECIAl

Cannot be combined with other offers.

altaMont: Live music: Blood Gypsies (funk), 9pm

Thursday $4 well drinks

wedge: Food truck: El Kimchi (Korean/ Mexican street food); Live music: Vollie McKenzie & Hank Bones (acoustic jazz, swing), 6pm

tuesday saturday

Wednesday $2 oFF growler & chugger reFills

AND

wedge: Food truck: Melt Your Heart (gourmet grilled cheese)

Tuesday cask night

Does not include drinks. Dine in only. Must present coupon.

southern appalachian: Live music: Peggy Ratusz Trio (blues, rock), 8pm

Monday $3 pint night

640 MERRIMON AVE • SUITE 205, ASHEVILLE • 828-225-6033

oskar Blues: Live music: West End String Band (bluegrass), 6pm; Food truck: CHUBWagon

Food served til 11 pM nightly

sunday altaMont: Live Music: Vinyl night w/ DJ Kilby

wedge: Food truck: Tin Can Pizzeria

Asheville, NC

Full bar . Full kitchen

wicked weed: Bend & Brew Yoga ($15, includes beer tasting), 11am

altaMont: Live music: Mark Bumgarner & Darren Nicholson (Americana, bluegrass), 9pm

twin leaf: Mutt Mingle (bring your dogs) & pet photos w/ Santa, 5pm

Brewing Company

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

NMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNN

Celebration time The benefits of bluegrass By toni shERwooD

writing.asheville@gmail.com

josh stack, founder and executive director of Funding America Through Entertainment, first began combining his passion for music with his mission to end hunger two decades ago. “Back in the early ’90s in the Southeast, everybody went to see Widespread Panic,” he says. “The band let me set up a table and raise money at their concerts.” These days, he’s working with local groups such as bluegrass outfit Town Mountain.

On the heels of a European tour, that band comes home to Asheville to perform a benefit concert at Isis Restaurant & Music Hall on Saturday, Dec. 20. The show, which raises funds for FATE and MANNA FoodBank, is now in its third year. The partnership has already raised more than $3,000 at past concerts. This time around, Town Mountain invited Mandolin Orange (think: bluegrass, rock and country) to join the bill. “The music is of a superior caliber,” says Stack. “Both bands boast regional and national recognition.” Town Mountain has performed at prestigious festivals including MerleFest, Grey Fox and Targhee

BEst intEntions: Mandolin Orange joins the Bluegrass Holiday Benefit, organized by Town Mountain, to raise funds for FATE and MANNA FoodBank. Photo by Briana Brough

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Bluegrass Festival. The band’s traditional bluegrass sound swings from a honky-tonk edge to a laidback groove, inspired by the first generation of bluegrass pioneers. Mandolin Orange recently released its third album, This Side of Jordan. Using acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin and fiddle, its sound appeals to both bluegrass lovers and the indie-rock crowd.

what Bluegrass Holiday Benefit whERE

Downtown : 59 Haywood St. : 828.253.3222 South : Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park : 828.687.8760

Isis Restaurant & Music Hall isisasheville.com

sensibilities-spa.com

Saturday, Dec. 20, 9 p.m., $20

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whEn

Plus, the high-energy show is in line with FATE’s model: to engage people while they are already enjoying themselves. “Hunger relief is a concern in our region and globally, and this is our attempt to be part of the solution,” says Town Mountain banjo player and vocalist jesse Langlais. “It’s an issue that we should all be more aware of.” According to Stack, 17 million children in America are food insecure. “Hunger is something nobody can argue with. We all need food and shelter,” he says. “It’s a unifying factor.” A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to FATE and MANNA FoodBank. The proceeds from a 50/50 raffle contribute to the fundraiser, and New Belgium Brewing will donate proceeds from beer sales along with a monetary bonus.

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Holiday events around WNC By aLLi maRshaLL

amarshall@mountainx.com

And the Krektones’ new record is also out, available at Static Age Records and krektones.com

M Looking to deck the halls, sing a carol, give a gift, take a stroll, see a play, make a craft or pass a wish list on to a man in a red suit? Here’s where to do all of those things. For more ideas, visit the Community Calendar and mountainx.com.

Local poet james navé performs A Child’s Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas, who would have been 100 this year. Navé has shared the famous poem each year since 1988 and will do so again at

The ftw Burlesque christmas spectacular promises to be “filled with all things merry and magical.” The show, featuring Deb au Nare and Dahlia Vee, takes the stage at the mothlight on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 9 p.m. $15. themothlight.com

Sketch comedy troupe Reasonably Priced Babies presents Instant Christmas at The Front Porch Theatre. Photo courtesy of RPB

Here’s how to celebrate the longest night of the year in style: Head to The Grey Eagle for a honky-tonk x-mas with The Silent Knights and local surf-rock/psychobilly outfit the Krektones. Sunday, Dec. 21, at 8 p.m. $8. thegreyeagle. com. Want a double (or even triple?) dose of the Krektones? The band covers holiday classics as part of the 5th annual Lazoom krektones kristmas Bus tour Friday, Dec. 19, at 8 and 9 p.m. lazoomtours.com.

Poet James Navé performs Dylan Thomas’ A Child’s Christmas in Wales. Photo courtesy of The Black Mountain Center for the Arts

the Black mountain center for the arts on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 4 p.m. By donation. BlackMountainArts.org

Dig out your loudest, spangliest, most seasonally atrocious knitwear (or borrow one from your Aunt Gertrude): mustacheville holds its inaugural ugly christmas sweater holiday party fundraiser. The evening includes performances by Endymion Is the Moon, DJ Ganjourn and ElectroChemical, and a raffle of art and prizes. Proceeds benefit Eliada Home. Held at one stop on Friday, Dec. 19, at 9:30 p.m. $5 at the door or free with a donation of a gently used coat or blanket. ashevillemusichall.com

The Krektones headline a honky-tonk X-mas show at The Grey Eagle and play the LaZoom Krektones Kristmas bus tour. Photo courtesy of the band

If you’ve already attended an installment of storytelling series Listen to This, you know that host tom chalmers takes some cues from the likes of The Moth but

also instills his events with local personalities sharing tales around a theme. Coming up, Chalmers brings Over The Railing and Through The Woods: An Evening of Holiday Travel Travails to the stage at the orange peel. Thursday, Dec. 18, at 8 p.m. $10. theorangepeel.net

While the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly visitors is well-known, what about Scrooge’s deceased business partner, Marley? That character is the focus of the behind-the-scene show, jacob marley’s christmas carol. “This irreverent, funny and ultimately deeply moving story retells Dickens’ classic with warmth and infectious zest,” says press for the production at n.c. stage company, which stars michael maccauley. Shows run Dec. 16-28, Wednesday-Saturday, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, at 2 p.m. $15/$22/$28. ncstage.org

Celtic-Appalachian band noonday feast holds an album release party and yuletide celebration at The Crow & Quill. Saturday, Dec. 20, at 9 p.m. By donation. thecrowandquill.com

What’s better than an evening of improv comedy? How about two evenings? Reasonably priced Babies (Tom Chalmers, Mondy Carter, Karen Stobbe, Josh Batenhorst and musician Aaron Price) presents Instant Christmas, “a series of

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comedic sketches created through games, made up on the spot thanks to audience suggestion,” according to a press release. Held at The Front Porch Theatre at the Black mountain center for the arts on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 19 and 20, at 7:30 p.m. $15. BlackMountainArts.org

Just because it’s the shortest day of the year doesn’t have to mean extra indoor hours. the Environmental and conservation organization offers up a night hike to hooker falls in celebration of the winter solstice. “In the dark of night we’ll create soft moonlight by shining flashlights upon the falls, creating a quiet moment to celebrate the return of the sun to the Northern Hemisphere,” says a press release. Bring a flashlight and a warm drink to toast. Meet at the Hooker Falls parking lot on DuPont/Staton Road in DuPont State Forest on Sunday, Dec. 21, at 7 p.m. Free. In case of inclement weather, a message regarding cancellation will be on the ECO answering machine by 10 a.m. Call 692-0385 for info. dupontforest.com

Musicians al petteway, amy white and Robin Bullock return to the Diana wortham theatre for a swannanoa solstice, their annual holiday concert. They’ll be joined by joined by Doug Orr, Sheila Kay

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

NMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMNMMMMM Adams, The Twisty Cuffs, Matthew Bell and The Piper Jones Band featuring E.J. Jones. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2 and 7 p.m. $40 general/$35 students/$15 children/$10 student rush. dwtheatre.com

M st. matthias church (1 Dundee St., Asheville) rounds out its holiday concert series with two final offerings. the Lenoir sax Quartet presents a candlelight Christmas concert on Saturday, Dec. 20; and musicke antique gives a gala Christmas concert, in costume, on Renaissance instruments on Sunday, Dec. 21. Both performances are at 7 p.m. and are by donation. stmatthiasepiscopal.com

The service begins with period hammered dulcimer music. Wednesday, Dec. 24, at 5:30 p.m. asburymethodist.org

M Local visual artist john nebraska holds a show and sale of original works and

The asbury memorial united methodist church (171 Beaverdam Road, Asheville) claims the title of oldest Methodist church in Western North Carolina. Fittingly, it offers a historical 1800s christmas Eve candlelight service “the way it would have been in the 1800s — complete with period music, attire, liturgy and decorations,” according to the Rev. Curtis Goforth.

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Amy White performs as part of A Swannanoa Solstice. Photo by Sandra Stambaugh

“Angel of Queens” by John Nebraska. Image courtesy of the artist

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hand-finished prints at his haw creek studio (90 Alpine Way, Asheville). Nebraska has been making art for the past three years, according to his bio, and worked as an illustrator for three decades prior. “Please stop by for holiday mirth, art and refreshments,” he says in a press release. Saturday, Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. jnebraskastudio.com

M Global roots outfit Rising appalachia returns to the 36

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orange peel for its annual solstice show. “Sisters Leah and Chloe tear into sound with sensual prowess as stages ignite,” says the band’s bio. “Listen to their beautiful sound for strong poetic vocals, soul singing, spoken word rallies, banjos, fiddles, many beats of drums, kalimbas, beat box, eclectic instrumentation, groove and dance parties alike.” climbing poetree opens. Saturday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m. $18 advance/$20 day of show. theorangepeel.net X

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Holiday Windows Contest

Sock monkeys celebrate the season at Purl’s Yarn Emporium on Wall Street.

photos by Lori Deaton Local merchants got into the holiday spirit and competed for bragging rights in the Asheville Downtown Association’s annual Holiday Windows Contest, sponsored by Window World of Asheville. While more than 30 businesses entered the competition, only three could walk away with top honors. This year’s winners were Purl’s Yarn Emporium (for judge’s favorite), Sensibilities Day Spa (for best interpretation of this year’s theme, “Home for the Holidays”) and Horse + Hero (for best use of merchandise). The real winners, of course, are residents and visitors who get to enjoy the festive windows on display around downtown. X

Stacked boxes look like birdhouses at Sensibilities Day Spa on Haywood Street.

A detail of the window display at Hip Replacements on Lexington Avenue, one of last year’s winners.

Artwork by Andy Herod featured at Horse + Hero on Patton Avenue.

mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

A R T S

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

One big vision Gold Light mines ’50s sounds, big screen aesthetics and friendships

By aLLi maRshaLL

amarshall@mountainx.com

What if a band is less about its members and more about the vehicle for a set of songs? If that’s the case, the dissolution of a band is not really a breakup as much as the completion of a project. Not that musician and filmmaker Joe Chang is saying that. Still, the disbanding of Asheville indie-rockers Kovacs and the Polar Bear (in which Chang played guitar) and indie-folk outfit Neapolitan Children (which Chang led), made way for Chang’s current act, Gold Light. That group, including members of Kovacs and the Polar Bear, performs at The Mothlight on Monday, Dec. 22; Nicholas Kovacs’ new project, War Woman, opens. Currently based in Charleston, S.C., Gold Light originated in Kentucky. En route to Portand, Ore., Chang stopped to visit friends near Louisville. When his truck broke down there, he stayed for a year. “It was unexpected,” he says. And while the various regions he’s lived in lately haven’t necessarily impacted his songs, “being around the people I meet inspires stories and characters,” he says.

who Gold Light with War Woman whERE The Mothlight themothlight.com whEn Monday, Dec. 22, at 9 p.m. Free

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Another unexpected inspiration for Gold Light’s eponymous debut album (and current sound), came from 1950s-era albums. “My mom listened to Roy Orbison a lot, [but] I didn’t set out to make music like that; it just happened,” says Chang. When he sat down to record some new material, “All this classic chord structure and ’50s kind of songs just came out of me. It was totally a refound love of that music.” That imprint is felt in the heartening strums of “Endless Beauty” and the skipping,

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goLDEnEyE: Music and visual art go hand in hand for filmmaker and bandleader Joe Chang, who currently fronts Gold Light. “All the things I try to create tend to be [of] one big vision,” he says. “I’m not always sure what it is, but there are underlying themes to everything I do.” Photo by Kyle Victory

Mr. Sandman name-checking “Last Night (In My Dreams).” The jangle-pop of “Control” looks ahead to ’60s-era folk groups, and there’s even a hint of Orbison’s unforgettable keen in Chang’s trademark warble.

It’s probably “True Love Never Dies,” the final track from the Gold Light debut — released on Charleston-based indie label Hearts & Plugs — that best captures the ’50s aesthetic. There’s the background chorus, the waltzy

Introducing Dana Arrington, Clinical Pharmacist

lilt and the implied doo-wop. But what really drives the point home is the accompanying video, also created by Chang. Though not a period piece by any stretch, its recurring trio of backup singers (The Goldettes) and meet-cute romance suggest a bygone era. The video, which screened as part of this year’s Music Video Asheville awards show, was directed, edited and shot by Chang. He studied filmmaking at the N.C. School of the Arts in Winston-Salem before dropping out to pursue his own interests. “There were all these rules and regulations for getting films made,” he says. “Me and some friends just wanted to make low-budget, independent things, so we decided to leave and do it ourselves.” They formed the production company Papercookie. Chang’s last feature film, with Papercookie, was the 2013 Halloween-themed Present. He says he’s currently taking a break from movies to concentrate on music because “films wear me out so much. It takes two years to get something made.” But he still puts out the occasional music video (he directed and edited one for Kovacs and the Polar Bear’s “Skeleton Crew,” which took home a number of awards at Music Video Asheville in 2011). “I feel like they go hand in hand,” Chang says of the connection between his audio and visual passions. “It’s a storytelling thing. All the things I try to create tend to be [of] one big vision. I’m not always sure what it is, but there are underlying themes to everything I do.” Current themes, he says, are about finding a home. One place where the musician does feel at home is with his band. While there’s no set Gold Light lineup, when he’s ready to tour, he calls on his talented friends. In Charleston, the members of Elim Bolt — also on Hearts & Plugs — back Chang; in Asheville it’s the guys from Kovacs and the Polar Bear. “I like playing with both groups,” he says. “Kovacs breaking up was really sad, but we had a good run. And we’re still all playing music together in different entities.” X

It’s important to understand how your prescription and over-the-counter medications contribute to your health, especially if you have chronic conditions. That’s why The Family Health Centers proudly offers the services of Dana Arrington, Doctor of Pharmacy. Dr. Arrington helps our patients manage their medications and minimize unnecessary costs and side effects. It’s all part of our team-based approach to care.

To establish as a patient with The Family Health Centers, please call (828) 258-8681

www.fhconline.com When it comes to your health, we’re in this together. mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

a&E

by Edwin Arnaudin

edwinarnaudin@gmail.com

Prophetic production Flosstradamus stays ahead of the EDM curve

Back in the day — 2005, to be precise — Josh “J2K” Young and Curt “Autobot” Cameruci began DJing parties under the name Flosstradamus. Armed with four turntables and two mixers, they packed out a tiny Grateful Dead bar in the Boystown neighborhood of Chicago with genre-blending, mash-up heavy sets. In the subsequent decade, the two have learned to produce and, with the help of intricately planned lighting and set design, expanded their shows to fit massive festival crowds at

Coachella and Lollapalooza, but in their evolution they’ve been true to the mentality of their humble roots. “We’re still doing what we were doing back there, just on a grander scale,” Cameruci says. “We take Southern hip-hop music and dance music and fuse them together.” Flosstradamus makes its Asheville debut on Friday, Dec. 19, at The Orange Peel, the latest in a legacy of live-wire shows. Key to that reputation is the duo’s use of the all-digital music software Ableton as opposed to physical media-based CDJs. That preference improves both the quality and complexity of the music (Cameruci likens it to having “infinite turntables”) and the duo’s interaction with the audience. “We wanted to make the performance more about actually getting energized onstage

than to be looking like you were just DJing,” Young says. “We felt like that took away a little bit from the connection when you’re actually sitting there, like, mixing out. We were like, ‘We want to jump around and actually get into the music without the risk of anything skipping and messing up.’” Rounding out their stage presence is an emphasis on physical props as opposed to mere LED screens, which Young feels have become ubiquitous to a fault in the electronic dance music world. “We’ve definitely made it a big point to try to do something a little bit different and a little bit more three-dimensional,” Young says. As for making the music, Young still lives in Chicago, but with Cameruci now calling New York City home, the two rely on the Internet to work together. Being on the road 200-250

days a year, however, provides plenty of face time, and they’ve recently been using those opportunities for more in-person collaborations. “We just finished a new tune with [tour mates] GTA on the bus. It was all four of us sitting in the same room just collaborating in real time,” Young says. “It’s kind of cool to get back to that more instantaneous, more spontaneous and collaborative production style as opposed to Curt making a beat and sending it to me, or me making a beat and sending it to him.” Both approaches have resulted in a number of singles released online a la carte, which Young says gives them a lot of creative freedom. Still, the prospect of having a full-length record has been making its way to the front of his mind. “I just love listening to albums in general, like, not even Flosstradamus-related, just as a fan of music,” Young says. “I love sitting down and listening to someone, even if it’s just 30 or 40 minutes of whatever: this is how they wanted it to be heard, this is the sequence they wanted it to be heard.” He adds, “The last thing we want is for [our album] to be a hodgepodge of singles that we just threw haphazardly together. Just like everything else that we do with Floss, it has to be curated by us to have that good flow to it. It has to feel organic and natural.” Whenever an official album is released, odds are good that it won’t be on CD. Cameruci feels that particular medium is dead. Instead, SoundCloud, YouTube, Spotify and Pandora on a phone or similar device

who Flosstradamus plus GTA and Curtis Williams with Two-9 whERE The Orange Peel theorangepeel.net whEn Friday, Dec. 19, at 9 p.m. $25 advance/$30 day of show

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cRatE tRainED: How do Curt “Autobot” Cameruci, left, and Josh “J2K” Young of Flosstradamus find new music? Instead of crate-digging at their neighborhood record stores, the duo turn to SoundCloud, YouTube, Spotify and Pandora, whose algorithms prove beneficial in suggesting similar artists. “The Internet is the new crate,” Cameruci says. Photo by Will Azcoma

are far more prevalent among the duo’s listeners, which in turn affects how their own creations are shared. So far, Flosstradamus has made its collections available through a torrent (a computer file that stores metadata), a call-in hotline and the first smokable mixtape

— a vaporizer pen with a 4GB hard drive. “I think our fans are all about absorbing the music the way that we absorb it, too,” Cameruci says. “We’re not releasing music on a CD, per se, but doing it a way that no one else has.” X

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

a&E

by Alec Sturgis

alecsturgis10@gmail.com

Christmas classics The King of Swing brings a holiday variety show to The Isis

There’s something inexplicably cheery — and not ironically so, despite the prevalence of seasonal sweaters — about the Christmas specials of Bing Crosby and Lawrence Welk. These shows of decades past delivered holiday medleys and warm sentiments that spanned giddy good times to reflective moments. They conjured seasonal memories with traditional carols and festive standards. While younger generations missed the chance to watch Crosby and Welk on prime-time television, Russ wilson’s big band variety show, Have Yourself a Swinging Little Christmas, offers a fresh perspective on the classic holiday songbook.

what Russ Wilson’s Have Yourself a Swinging Little Christmas whERE Isis Restaurant & Music Hall isisasheville.com whEn Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. (Richard Shulman opens in the Isis Lounge) and Friday, Dec. 19, at 8:30 p.m. $15 advance/$18 at the door

Along with his orchestra, the local musician brings arrangements of “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer,” “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” “Santa Baby” and others to the stage of Isis Restaurant & Music Hall on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 18 and 19. “I’ve always wanted to do a Christmas show,” Wilson says. “I grew up watching the old TV Christmas specials, and I want-

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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ed to rekindle those memories and songs in this show. I finally had a venue to do that in after Isis opened up.” Since launching in 2012, the venue has featured regular jazz offerings (including its ongoing Sunday jazz showcase) along with a full lineup of folk, rock and Americana acts. Last year’s debut of the Swinging Little Christmas show, on the Isis stage, was a success. Wilson, also known as “North Carolina’s King of Swing,” has made a name for himself in music by donning many hats. Over the course of his nearly 30-year career, he has worked as a drummer, singer and bandleader. In 2007, he made his conducting debut in a performance of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Performing within a wide spectrum of traditions and styles ranging from country to bebop to symphonic, Wilson demonstrates a flexibility that lends itself well to the variety-show format. Despite his diverse musical past, Wilson admits, “Big band music has always been my home,” citing the lush chords and pulsing rhythms of Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. The bandleaders of the 1930s were some of the first to produce jazz renditions of Christmas favorites. Ellington rearranged a large part of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker into a jazz album. He also recorded interpretations of simple tunes like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town.” While the Have Yourself a Swinging Little Christmas show is sure to feature a good number of classic arrangements, Wilson and his orchestra also will be performing some of the lesser-known hits of the winter season. One tune on the program is Louis Armstrong’s original “Zat You Santa Claus?” The song features a comical, narrative take on the story of St. Nick, accompanied by a playful, descending tuba line and

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syncopated stabs from the trumpet section. The program will also feature a swing version of “Jingle Bell Rock,” the Bobby Helms staple from 1958. The compelling thing about songs like these is that they entertain both audience and performer alike, bringing people together by creating a celebratory atmosphere. In keeping with the variety-show format, Wilson and his orchestra will share the stage with an array of talented guests, including jazz vocalist

wendy jones, local a cappella group The Mistletones and guitarist hank Bones, to name a few. “We just want people to come out, have a great time and enjoy the music,” says Wilson. “For some people, this kind of entertainment can be a window into the past. For others who may not be as familiar with this material, we want to give them a chance to encounter these songs for themselves. When you turn the radio on, you still hear a lot of these classics today.” X

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Send your arts news to ae@mountainx.com

A&E staff

Chris Carpenter Country pop rocker Chris Carpenter first picked up a guitar at age 11 and shortly after extinguishing his 30th birthday candles felt a need to assuage his newfound existential unrest with “a little therapy.” Carpenter aims to reconnect with fans in 2015 by sharing the personal stories that inspired select musical works through posts on his website and other social media outlets. The relentlessly touring singersongwriter will also turn over a new leaf by performing in Asheville for the first time, treating guests to a spectrum of upbeat anthems and heartfelt ballads — all tied together by six acoustic strings. The R Life event series, Marriot Hotels’ platform for intimately showcasing emerging artists, presents Carpenter in the Renaissance Asheville Hotel lobby on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. Free. renaissanceasheville.com. Photo courtesy of the artist

RBTS WIN “We just want to show West Asheville peeps a good time before they go into their holiday family hangs,” says javi Bolea of RBTS WIN. “The goal is a sticky floor by the end of the night.” Bolea, along with bandmates cliff B. worsham and josh chassner, follows a multifarious musical recipe — one influenced by soul and R&B, but served up in a modernized, synth-laden format. Tracks like “Beach Child” and “Mountain Child” offer additional flavor, showcasing the musicians’ disparate geographic pasts. The chill-pop trio will treat fans to unreleased songs and a few cover tunes after an opening set by Charlotte rapper Stranger Day (aka Shane Coble). DJ J. Overcash will also be on deck, prompting dance parties before and after bands. Performances start at The Mothlight on Friday, Dec. 19, at 9:30 p.m. $5. themothlight.com. Photo by Andrea Coon

Darren Nicholson and Mark Bumgarner It takes two, as the saying goes. Local musician Darren nicholson is a member of bluegrass group Balsam Range and the leader of his namesake band. Singer-songwriter mark Bumgarner is a solo artist, as well as half of the duo Calico Moon and a contributor to multiple Balsam Range projects. Together, Nicholson and Bumgarner will perform “a night of Americana, bluegrass and real country music,” according to a press release. “The evening will feature each [musician] performing solo before coming together for a final set.” The show takes place at the Altamont Brewing Co. on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 9 p.m. Free. altamontbrewing.com. Photo of Nicholson courtesy of the musician

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party It’s not just a holiday party, it’s a fashion statement. And while ugly Christmas sweater parties are hardly a rarity, kipper schauer’s annual fete — now in its sixth iteration — takes kitsch, irony and seasonal revelry to a whole new level. “There will be drinking, merriment and awesome clothing. Appearances by Santa Claus. Immortalize the moment with a shot in our photo booth,” says the Facebook invite. Schauer, aka DJ Kipper, reunites with fellow DJ Dr. Awesome “to bring you the only holiday party that isn’t filled with awkward situations.” And as for where to find the perfect apparel? Big-box stores are stocked up on Christmas sweaters and sweater vests, according to Schauer, and “Goodwill is also a great source, but may be pretty picked through. There’s also enough time to make your own.” The party takes place at Broadway’s on Friday, Dec. 19, at 9 p.m. avl.mx/0kp.

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Left: After the Prom, 1957 (Detail) . Cover Illustration for The Saturday Evening Post, May 25, 1957 ÂŠ 1957:SEPS. Norman Rockwell Museum Collections. Right: Reference photo for Norman Rockwell's After the Prom, 1957 (Detail) . From the permanent collection of the Norman Rockwell Museum.

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

a&E caLEnDaR

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Black Mountain coMMunity druM circle 545-0389 • SATURDAYS, 4-6pm - Covers traditional West African rhythms. Free. Held at Carver Community Center, 101 Carver Ave., Black Mountain

artetude gallery 89 Patton Ave., 252-1466, artetudegallery.com • Through WE (12/31), 11am-6pm Holiday Gift Market, works by various local artists. Free to attend.

Blue ridge ringers handBell enseMBle blueridgeringers.tripod.com • SU (12/21), 4pm - “Handbells for the Holidays” concert. Free. Held at First Presbyterian Church of Hendersonville, 699 N. Grove St., Hendersonville

lush works 26 1/2 Battery Park Ave., 919-649-2483 lush-works.com • SA (12/20) & SU (12/21), 11am-9pm - Book launch for Milarepa: A Buddhist Saint by illustrator Nirzara Verulkar, includes exhibit of her works. Free to attend.

DRawing on happinEss: Indian illustrator Nirzara Verulkar will visit Lush Works Gallery on Saturday, Dec. 20, to promote new book Milarepa: A Buddhist Saint. “Drawing has kept me going in every good and bad situation in my life,” Verulkar writes on her website. “It means everything to me.” She will discuss her animation and illustration process during the launch, and her works will be displayed through the weekend. (p.46)

riverlink 170 Lyman St., 252-8474 ext.11 • WE (12/17), 10am - Become an artist contractor for the city information session. Registration required. Free. transylvania coMMunity arts council 884-2787, tcarts.org • FR (12/19), 5-9pm - Holiday gallery stroll through studios in downtown Brevard. Free to attend.

auditions & call to artists ATTENTION ARTISTS • CRAFTERS (pd.) Space available (2,000 sqft) in downtown Waynesville, that would provide a place to work and sell. Heat, parking. 30 minutes from Asheville. • Individual booths. • Could be co-op. I will develop the space to a plan, if there is interest. (828) 216-6066. asheville area arts council 258-0710, ashevillearts.com • Through TH (1/15) - Applications accepted from WNC artists for the Art in the Park Arts and Community Grant. Contact for guidelines. great sMokies writing prograM 250-2353, agc.unca.edu/gswp • Through FR (1/30) - Submissions accepted for the Thomas Wolfe Fiction Prize. Contact for guidelines. $25/$15 NC Writer’s Network members. the Magnetic theatre 372 Depot St., 257-4003 • Through TH (1/1) - Short scripts accepted for consideration in Brief Encounters 2015. Contact for details. wnc orchid society wncos.org • Through SA (1/31) - Submissions of artwork incorporating orchids accepted for 2015 WNCOS Annual Orchid Show. Contact for guidelines. Free to submit.

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

mountainx.com

Music

diana worthaM theatre 2 South Pack Square, 257-4530 dwtheatre.com • SU (12/21), 2pm & 7pm - “A Swannanoa Solstice,” holiday music, storytelling and dance. $40/$35 students/$15 children/$10 student rush. flat rock playhouse downtown 125 S. Main St., Hendersonville, 6930731, flatrockplayhouse.org • THURSDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/21), 8pm - Music on the Rock: A Motown Christmas, tribute concert. $24. Music at unca 251-6432, unca.edu • SUNDAYS, 3pm - Brevard Music Center faculty concerts, co-sponsored by OLLI. Free. Held in the Reuter Center. st. Matthias church 1 Dundee St., 285-0033 stmatthiasepiscopal.com • SA (12/20), 7pm - Lenoir Sax Quartet candlelight Christmas concert. Free. • SU (12/21), 3pm - Musicke Antiqua Renaissance Christmas concert. Free.

theater asheville coMMunity theatre 35 E. Walnut St., 254-1320 ashevilletheatre.org • FRIDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/21) - A Charlie Brown Christmas. Fri. & Sat.: 7:30pm; Sun.: 2:30pm. $12-$22. Ballet conservatory of asheville 255-5777, balletconservatoryofasheville. com • WE (12/17) through FR (12/19) - The Nutcracker. Wed.: 6:30pm; Thur.-Fri.: 4:30 & 7:30pm. $22-$28. Held at Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square Black Mountain center for the arts 225 W. State St., Black Mountain, 6690930, blackmountainarts.org • FR (12/19) & SA (12/20), 7:30pm Instant Christmas, improv comedy. $15. • SU (12/21), 4pm - “A Child’s Christmas in Wales,” poem performed by James Navé. Free.

flat rock playhouse 2661 Highway 225, Flat Rock, 693-0731 flatrockplayhouse.org • WEDNESDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/21) - A Christmas Carol. Wed.Sat.: 8pm; Wed., Thur., Sat. & Sun.: 2pm. $40/$25 students/$10 children. hendersonville little theatre 229 S. Washington St., Hendersonville, 692-1082, hendersonvillelittletheater.org • THURSDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/21) - Little Women. Thur.-Sat.: 7:30pm; Sun.: 2pm. $20/$15 student/$10 children.

Montford park players 254-5146, montfordparkplayers.org • THURSDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/21) - A Christmas Carol. Thur.-Sat.: 7:30pm; Sat. & Sun.: 2:30pm. Encore performances: Sun., Dec. 21-Tues., Dec. 23, 7:30pm. $10/$5 children. Held at Asheville Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway

themagnetictheatre.org • THURSDAYS through SATURDAYS until (12/20), 7pm - The 38th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular. $20. Held at BeBe Theatre, 20 Commerce St.

gaLLERy DiREctoRy

alcheMy fine art 25 Rankin Ave., 367-7714 info@alchemyfineart.net • Through SU (12/21) - Works by Angela Cunningham and Anis Crofts. aMerican folk art and fraMing 64 Biltmore Ave., 281-2134, amerifolk.com • Through WE (12/31) - Wish List Celebration, exceptional pieces collected throughout the year. art at wcu 227-3591, fineartmuseum.wcu.edu • Through FR (1/9) - David Raymond’s Other People’s Pictures and Eric Oglander: Craigslist Mirrors, photography. In the Bardo Arts Center. asheville area arts council gallery 1 Page Ave., 258-0710, ashevillearts.com • Through FR (1/9) - Odyssey ClayWorks: A Collective Perspective, ceramics. asheville art MuseuM 2 N. Pack Square, 253-3227, ashevilleart.org • Through SU (3/15) - What You See Is What You See: American Abstraction After 1950, American Abstract Expressionism. asheville gallery of art 16 College St., 251-5796 ashevillegallery-of-art.com • Through WE (12/31) - The Power of Place, pastels by Everett Schmidt. Bender gallery 12 S. Lexington Ave., 505-8341 thebendergallery.com • Through SA (1/31) - Microcosms: Our World in Paperweights, handmade paperweight exhibition.

Our 4th Location

the Magnetic theatre

Black Mountain center for the arts 225 W. State St., Black Mountain, 669-0930, blackmountainarts.org • Through FR (2/20) - Clay studio exhibit and pottery market.

M at t re s s M a n

GRAND OPENING NOW! 1918 HENDERSONVILLE RD.

(Across from ASIAN WRAP in S. Asheville)

grovewood gallery 111 Grovewood Road, 253-7651, grovewood.com • Through WE (12/31) - Hops & Crafts, mugs, steins & tankards by regional artist.

25% OFF WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD

Mica fine conteMporary craft 37 N. Mitchell Ave., Bakersville, 688-6422, micagallerync.com • Through TH (1/1) - Wearable art works by Edwin Bringle, Liz Spear, Stacy Lane, Nita Forde and Kathryn Faille.

GIVE THE GIFT OF SLEEP!

pulp 103 Hilliard Ave., 225-5851 • Through WE (12/31) - Poster art by Joshua Marc Levy. seven sisters gallery 117 Cherry St., Black Mountain, 669-5107, sevensistersgallery.com • Through SU (1/25) - Paintings and wood etchings by Jim Southerland. the grand BoheMian gallery 11 Boston Way, 877-274-1242 bohemianhotelasheville.com • Through WE (12/31) - Expressionist landscapes by Jean Claude Roy. • Through WE (12/31) - Near and Far, plein air paintings by Stuart Roper and jewelry by Claudia Herr. transylvania coMMunity arts council 349 S. Caldwell St., Brevard, 884-2787, tcarts.org • Through FR (12/19) - Sacred Spaces, works by three artists. Zapow! 21 Battery Park Suite 101, 575-2024, zapow.net • ONGOING - She-Pow, mixed media exhibit inspired by women. Contact the galleries for admission fees and hours.

“BUY LOCAL, PAY LESS SLEEP BETTER” LOCAL FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED NOW WITH 4 LOCATIONS ASHEVILLE 80 • S. Tunnel Rd • (828) 299-4232 ARDEN • CLEARANCE CENTER • 303 S. Airport Rd • (828) 687-2618 HENDERSONVILLE • 1900 B Four Seasons Blvd • (828) 693-9000 S. ASHEVILLE • 1918 Hendersonville Rd • (828) 676-3502

MATTRESSMANSTORES.COM 828-299-4232 mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

C L U B L A N D dugout Theater of The Mind (rock), 7pm

wednesday, deceMBer 17

elaine’s dueling piano Bar Dueling Pianos, 9pm

185 king street Levee Daze w/ Dillon N’ Ashe (funk, blues-rock), 8pm

foggy Mountain BrewpuB Mandlekorn George Project (funk, jazz), 9pm

5 walnut wine Bar Wine tasting w/ Eleanor Underhill (Americana), 5pm Juan Benavides Trio (flamenco), 8pm

french Broad Brewery Jeff Markham, 6pm isis restaurant and Music hall Russ Wilson “Have Yourself a Swinging Little Christmas” (holiday variety show), 8:30pm

Ben’s tune-up Live band karaoke w/ The Diagnostics, 9pm Black Mountain ale house Buncombe County Boys (folk, bluegrass), 7:30pm

Jack of the wood puB Bluegrass jam, 7pm

Blue kudZu sake coMpany Bill Gerhardt’s Trio South (jazz), 6pm

leX 18 Jeff Knorr (jazz piano), 7pm

Blue Mountain piZZa & Brew puB Open Mic w/ Mark Bumgarner, 7pm

loBster trap Hank Bones (“The man of 1,000 songs”), 7pm

Burger Bar Tom Waits night, 9pm

Market place Ben Hovey (dub jazz, beats), 7pm

Bywater Soul night w/ DJ Whitney, 8:30pm

new Mountain Studio Zahiya Holiday Showcase (dance performance), 6:30pm

crow & quill Uncle Shabby’s Singalong Parlour (piano karaoke), 9pm dugout Karaoke, 9pm grind cafe Trivia night, 7pm iron horse station Kevin Reese (Americana), 6pm

moRE pop: Indie-folk outfit Frontier Ruckus has gone pop(ish) in their new album Sitcom Afterlife. “Unlike Frontier Ruckus’ previous trilogy of records, which served as a tribute of sorts to the nostalgia of a Midwestern suburbia, Sitcom Afterlife speaks with a more compact and frontal approach,” reads a passage about the album. Performing with singer-songwriter Firekid and Rough Coat (Asheville’s River Whyless members), Frontier Ruckus headlines The Mothlight on Saturday, Dec. 20, at 9:30 p.m.

isis restaurant and Music hall Trio Guggino (dinner music), 7:15pm Jack of the wood puB Old-time session, 5pm leX 18 Patrick Lopez (Latin jazz piano), 7pm loBster trap Ben Hovey (dub-jazz, trumpet), 7pm MoJo kitchen & lounge DJ Molly Parti “Get Over the Hump-day” dance party (funk, soul, hip-hop), 5:30pm Mountain MoJo coffeehouse Open mic, 6:30pm new Mountain Robert Ellis (pop, rock), 8pm

To qualify for a free listing, a venue must be predominately dedicated to the performing arts. Bookstores and cafés with regular open mics and musical events are also allowed / To limit confusion, events must be submitted by the venue owner or a representative of that venue / Events must be submitted in written form by e-mail (clubland@mountainx.com), fax, snail mail or hand-delivered to the Clubland Editor Hayley Benton at 2 Wall St., Room 209, Asheville, NC 28801. Events submitted to other staff members are not assured of inclusion in Clubland / Clubs must hold at least TWO events per week to qualify for listing space. Any venue that is inactive in Clubland for one month will be removed / The Clubland Editor reserves the right to edit or exclude events or venues / Deadline is by noon on Monday for that Wednesday’s publication. This is a firm deadline.

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

noBle kava Open mic w/ Caleb Beissert, 9pm

town puMp Open mic w/ Aaron, 9pm

odditoriuM Synergy story slam, 7pm

tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues Blues & soul jam w/ Al Coffee & Da Grind, 8:30pm

off the wagon Piano show, 9pm olive or twist Swing dance lessons w/ Bobby Wood, 7:30pm 3 Cool Cats (vintage rock), 8pm one stop deli & Bar Shaun Peace Band (rock, roots), 10pm orange peel RL Grime w/ Lunice & Branchez (hip-hop, trap, bass), 9pm pisgah Brewing coMpany Laura Blackley Trio (country, folk, soul), 6pm rooM iX Latin night w/ DJ Carlos Carmona, 9pm tallgary’s cantina Open mic & jam, 7pm

vincenZo’s Bistro Lenny Petenelli (high-energy piano), 7pm white horse Black Mountain Waltz night, 7pm wild wing cafe south Karaoke, 6pm

thursday, deceMBer 18 185 king street Canyon Creek (country, Southern rock), 8pm 5 walnut wine Bar Hank West & The Smokin’ Hots (jazz exotica), 8pm

the Mothlight Onawa w/ Low Index, Wyla (experimental, rock, indie, psych-pop, garage), 8:30pm

altaMont Brewing coMpany Mark Bumgarner & Darrin Nicholson (bluegrass), 9pm

the phoeniX Jazz night, 8pm

Black Mountain ale house Lyric (acoustic soul), 9pm

the social Ashli Rose (singer-songwriter), 6:30pm Karaoke, 10pm

Blue kudZu sake coMpany Trivia night, 8pm

the southern Disclaimer Comedy open mic, 9pm tiger Mountain Sean Dail (classic punk, power-pop, rock), 10pm tiMo’s house Spectrum AVL w/ Dam Good (dance party), 9pm

mountainx.com

cork & keg Gary MacFiddle Swing Trio, 8pm crow & quill Vendetta Creme (holiday vaudeville revue), 9pm douBle crown 33 and 1/3 Thursdays w/ DJs Devyn & Oakley, 10pm

odditoriuM Isaacson & Via (rock), 9pm off the wagon Dueling pianos, 9pm olive or twist West Coast swing lesson w/ Ian & Karen, 7:30pm Pop the Clutch (beach, jazz, swing), 8:30pm one stop deli & Bar Phish ’n’ Chips (Phish covers), 6pm The Jester’s Ball w/ Pericles (electronic), 10pm orange peel “Over The Railing and Through The Woods” w/ Tom Chalmers, 8pm oskar Blues Brewery Chris Smith (singer-songwriter), 6pm pack’s tavern Jason Whittaker (acoustic-rock), 9pm pisgah Brewing coMpany Porch 40 (blues, funk, jam, rock), 8pm purple onion cafe Red Honey (rock, blues), 7pm renaissance asheville hotel Chris Carpenter (rock), 6:30pm rooM iX College night w/ DJ MoTo, 9pm scandals nightcluB DJ dance party & drag show, 10pm scully’s “Geeks Who Drink” Trivia, 7pm southern appalachian Brewery Carver & Carmody (blues, Americana, folk), 7pm spring creek tavern Shane’s Gang (R&B, blues, rock), 8pm tallgary’s cantina Iggy Radio, 7pm the Mothlight Burlesque Xmas Spectacular!, 9pm the phoeniX The Moonshine Babies (Americana), 8pm the social Ryan Perry Band, 8pm

py p ha ew n r! a ye

Dinner Menu till 10pm Late Night Menu till

Tues-Sun

5pm–12am

12am

Full Bar

JOIN US FOR OUR

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION! www.32ICEBAR.com

COMING SOON Wed12/17 7:15 PM - TRIO GUGGINO

Thur12/18 7:00PM - WITH RICHARD SCHULMAN ON PIANO IN THE LOUNGE 8:30 PM - RUSS WILSON: “HAVE YOURSELF

A SWINGING LITTLE CHRISTMAS” Fri12/19 7:00PM - LARKE: FRIDAY LOUNGE SESSION

8:30 PM - RUSS WILSON: “HAVE YOURSELF

A SWINGING LITTLE CHRISTMAS” Sat 12/20

11:00 AM - SATURDAY CLASSICAL BRUNCH:

AMICIMUSIC PRESENTS:

THE WOODSONG CLARINET OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 9:00 PM - THE 3RD ANNUAL BLUEGRASS HOLIDAY BENEFIT W/ TOWN MOUNTAIN AND MANDOLIN ORANGE

Sunday jazz showcase 12/21 6PM JACOB RODRIGUEZ AND MICHAEL LIBRAMENTO IN THE LOUNGE 8PM MERRY CHRISTMAS BABY – HOLIDAY JAZZ BLUES & SWING WITH PEGGY RATUSZ & FRIENDS

Sat 12/27 1:30 & 8PM -

JAMIE LAVAL’S CHRISTMAS IN SCOTLAND Wed12/31 9:00 PM - NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION WITH:

STEPHANIESID AND THE JUAN BENEVIDES GROUP Every Tuesday

BLUEGRASS SESSIONS 7:30pm - midnite

743 HAYWOOD RD 828-575-2737 ISISASHEVILLE.COM mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

WED • DEC 17 WOODY WOOD 5:30-7:30 FRI • DEC 19

OPEN EVERY DAY AT

11 am, Sundays at noon North Carolina’s First Cider Pub!

Gift Packages Available Family Owned and Operated

20TH ANNIVERSARY WEIZENBOCK BOTTLE RELEASE FEAT. DOC

AQUATIC 6:30-8:30 SAT • DEC 20

HOLIDAY MEDLEY CELEBRATION FEAT.

ONE LEG UP 6:30-8:30

SUN • DEC 21 OPEN 1 - 6 TUE • DEC 23 MIKE & AMY ACOUSTIC

SLINGING CIDER MORNING, NOON & NIGHT See our Facebook Page for Nightly Specials

5:30-7:30

WED & THURS DEC 24 - 25 CLOSED FOR HOLIDAY

Send your listings to clubland@mountainx.com. cLuB DiREctoRy

the southern Throwdown Thursday w/ Jim Raves & Nex Millen (DJ, dance party), 10pm the strand @ 38 Main Sheila Kay Adams & Michael Reno Harrell (Appalachian Christmas storytelling), 7:30pm tiMo’s house ’90s Recall w/ Franco (’90s dance, hip-hop, pop), 10pm town puMp Scott Low (Southern folk songwriter), 9pm tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues The Westsound Revue (Motown, soul), 9pm urBan orchard Stevie Lee Combs (acoustic, Americana), 6:30pm vincenZo’s Bistro Ginny McAfee (guitar, vocals), 7pm white horse Black Mountain David Cody benefit show w/ multiple local artists, 7:30pm

friday, deceMBer 19 185 king street Jamboogie Band (funk, jam), 8pm 5 walnut wine Bar The Blood Gypsies (gypsy blues), 9pm asheville Music hall Viva La Hop! w/ Free Radio, Uprock Citizens Brigade, Bubonik Funk, Dillon n’ Ashe, Levee Daze (hip-hop, funk), 10pm

210 Haywood Road, West Asheville, NC 28806

(828) 774-5151 www.urbanorchardcider.com

cLuBLanD

Open Mon-Thurs 4-8pm, Fri 4-9pm Sat 2-9pm, Sun 1-6pm

athena’s cluB Dave Blair (folk, funk, acoustic), 7pm Blue Mountain piZZa & Brew puB Bob Zullo, 7pm Boiler rooM Broad River Nightmare, Binding Isaac, AWOL & Romero’s Ghost (metal, punk, rock), 9pm Broadway’s The 6th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Party w/ DJs Kipper & Dr. Awesome, 9pm Burger Bar Live ragtime, 7pm Bywater One Leg Up (gypsy jazz), 8pm

THE BANDS RETURN! Check out Clubland for other events.

Thursday Dec. 18th - Ryan Perry Band Christmas Throwdown Wednesday Dec. 31st - NYE Celebration w/ champagne toast

Thursday Jan. 8th - 9:00 - 12:00 Rory Kelly Thursday Jan. 15th - 8:00 - 11:00 Thicket CD release party Thursday Jan. 22nd - 8:00 -11:00 Joe Lasher Jr. Trio Thru 12/20 Donate 3 toys for Hillcrest Headstart & get a free appetizer

www.facebook/thesocialasheville 1078 Tunnel Road | 828-298-8780 KITCHEN & BAR OPEN TIL 2AM

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP!

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

mountainx.com

classic wineseller James Hammel (pop, jazz), 7pm cork & keg Red Hot Sugar Babies (jazz), 8:30pm douBle crown DJ Greg Cartwright (garage & soul obscurities), 10pm dugout Fine Line (classic rock), 9pm elaine’s dueling piano Bar Dueling Pianos, 9pm foggy Mountain BrewpuB Lea Renard & The Triple Threat (rock), 10pm french Broad Brewery Letters to Abigail (Americana, bluegrass, country), 6pm good stuff Scott Low (folk, singer-songwriter), 8pm green rooM cafe & coffeehouse Marc Yaxley (Brazilian jazz), 6pm grey eagle Music hall & tavern Byrds of a Feather II (Gram Parsons & Gene Clark tribute), 8pm highland Brewing coMpany Doc Aquatic (indie psych-rock), 6:30pm

185 king stREEt 877-1850 5 waLnut winE BaR 253-2593 aDam DaLton DistiLLERy 367-6401 aLtamont BREwing company 575-2400 thE aLtamont thEatRE 348-5327 ashEviLLE music haLL 255-7777 athEna’s cLuB 252-2456 BaRLEy’s tap Room 255-0504 BLack mountain aLE housE 669-9090 BLuE mountain pizza 658-8777 BoiLER Room 505-1612 BRoaDway’s 285-0400 thE BywatER 232-6967 coRk anD kEg 254-6453 cREEksiDE taphousE 575-2880 Diana woRtham thEatER 257-4530 DiRty south LoungE 251-1777 DouBLE cRown 575-9060 Dugout 692-9262 ELEvEn on gRovE 505-1612 foggy mountain BREwpuB 254-3008 fREnch BRoaD BREwERy tasting Room 277-0222 gooD stuff 649-9711 gREEn Room cafE 692-6335 gREy EagLE music haLL & tavERn 232-5800 gRovE housE thE gRovE paRk inn (ELainE’s piano BaR/ gREat haLL) 252-2711 highLanD BREwing company 299-3370 isis music haLL 575-2737 jack of thE wooD 252-5445 LEx 18 582-0293 thE LoBstER tRap 350-0505 mEtRoshERE 258-2027 miLLRoom 555-1212 montE vista hotEL 669-8870 moonLight miLE 335-9316 nativE kitchEn & sociaL puB 581-0480 nightBELL 575-0375 noBLE kava BaR 505-8118 oDDitoRium 575-9299 oLivE oR twist 254-0555 onEfiftyonE 239-0239 onE stop BaR DELi & BaR 255-7777 o.hEnRy’s/tug 254-1891 thE oRangE pEEL 225-5851 oskaR BLuEs BREwERy 883-2337 pack’s tavERn 225-6944 thE phoEnix 877-3232 pisgah BREwing co. 669-0190 puLp 225-5851 puRpLE onion cafE 749-1179 RED stag gRiLL at thE gRanD BohEmian hotEL 505-2949 Root BaR no.1 299-7597 scanDaLs nightcLuB 252-2838 scuLLy’s 251-8880 sLy gRog LoungE 255-8858 smokEy’s aftER DaRk 253-2155 thE sociaL 298-8780 southERn appaLacian BREwERy 684-1235 static agE REcoRDs 254-3232 stRaightaway cafE 669-8856 taLLgaRy’s cantina 232-0809 tigER mountain 407-0666 timo’s housE 575-2886 town pump 357-5075 toy Boat 505-8659 tREasuRE cLuB 298-1400

tREssa’s Downtown jazz & BLuEs 254-7072 u.s. cELLuLaR cEntER & thomas woLfE auDitoRium 259-5544 vincEnzo’s 254-4698 wEstviLLE puB 225-9782 whitE hoRsE 669-0816 wiLD wing cafE 253-3066 wxyz 232-2838

the phoeniX Stepchild (rock), 9pm the social Get Vocal Karaoke, 9:30pm tiger Mountain Soul dance party w/ Cliff, 10pm toy Boat coMMunity art space Ta Ta for Now, Sadye (circus show, juggling, aerial arts, balance, dance), 7pm tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues Lyric (acoustic soul), 10pm

iron horse station Barb Turner (R&B), 7pm

vincenZo’s Bistro Steve Whiddon (classic piano), 5:30pm

isis restaurant and Music hall Larke (jazz), 7pm Larke (indie, singer-songwriter), 7pm Russ Wilson “Have Yourself a Swinging Little Christmas” (holiday variety show), 8:30pm

white horse Black Mountain Misty Daniels & Michael Jefry Stevens (cabaret jazz), 8pm

Jack of the wood puB Canyon Creek Bluegrass (all-star band, folk, indie, bluegrass), 9pm JerusaleM garden Middle Eastern music & bellydancing, 7pm leX 18 The Byron Hedgepeth Vibes Trio (jazz), 7:30pm DJ Cosmo Q (electro-Gatsby swing), 11pm loBster trap Calico Moon (Americana), 6:30pm Market place The Sean Mason Trio (groove, jazz, funk), 7pm odditoriuM U.S. Christmas, Bask & (Young) American Landscape (ambient, post-rock), 9pm off the wagon Dueling pianos, 9pm olive or twist WestSound (Motown), 8pm Latin gala holiday event (Brazilian samba), 11pm one stop deli & Bar Free Dead Fridays w/ members of Phuncle Sam (jam), 5pm Mustacheville’s 1st Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Holiday Party Fundraiser!, 9:30pm orange peel Flosstradamus w/ GTA & Curtis Williams, Two-9 (DJ’s, scratch, hip-hop, electronic), 9pm oskar Blues Brewery West End String Band (bluegrass), 6pm

Johnson City - oak Ridge - asheViLLe gReenViLLe, sC - noRth ChaRLeston, sC

promo expires december 19

Asheville lArgest Used Bookstore

New & Used: Books • CDs • Video Games • Books on CD • DVDs • Vinyl Records Top Dollar Paid for CDs, DVDs & Text Books. We have a large Christian Section!

Perfect for holiday gift giving!

800 Fairview Rd. River Ridge Shopping Center (Beside A.C. Moore) • Hwy 240 exit #8 Open Mon-Sat 9am-9pm • Sun noon-6pm • Shop till you drop!

299-1145 • www.mrksonline.com

wild wing cafe south A Social Function (acoustic), 9:30pm

Dec 2014

saturday, deceMBer 20 185 king street Winter Solstice Dance Party benefit for Muddy Sneakers w/ DJ DOGG, 8pm 5 walnut wine Bar Sean Gaskell (world), 6pm The Krektones Xmas Show (surf-rock), 9pm athena’s cluB Dave Blair (folk, funk, acoustic), 7pm Black Mountain ale house Dulci Ellenberger & Daniel Shearin (Americana), 9pm Blue Mountain piZZa & Brew puB Rocket Science, 7pm Bywater Woody Wood & Friends (Appalachian soul), 9pm classic wineseller Joe Cruz (Beatles, Elton John covers), 7pm cluB eleven on grove Grove House holiday showcase benefit for Brother Wolf & Eblen Charities, 1pm cork & keg Drayton & The Dreamboats (swing, jazz), 8:30pm crow & quill Noonday Feast CD release & Yuletide party (Celtic, folk), 8:30pm

pisgah Brewing coMpany Rumpke Mountain Boys (bluegrass, jam), 8pm

dugout Project X (classic rock), 9pm

scandals nightcluB DJ dance party & drag show, 10pm

elaine’s dueling piano Bar Dueling Pianos, 9pm

scully’s DJ, 10pm

foggy Mountain BrewpuB David Earl & The Plowshares (rock, folk), 10pm

spring creek tavern Mark Shane (blues), 8pm

Used Books, Music and More

Buy a $25 Gift Card & receive a $5 Gift Card FREE!

wild wing cafe Andy Buckner, 9pm

pack’s tavern DJ MoTo (pop, dance, hits), 9pm

southern appalachian Brewery Peggy Ratusz Trio (blues, rock), 8pm

Mr. K’s

french Broad Brewery Leigh Glass & The Hazards (Americana, blues), 6pm

tallgary’s cantina Go Dot Figure (folk, rock, alternative), 9:30pm

good stuff The Screaming J’s (honky-tonk, hot jazz, ragtime), 9pm

the adMiral Hip Hop dance party w/ DJ Warf, 11pm

green rooM cafe & coffeehouse Elise Pratt & Mike Holstein (jazz), 6pm

the Mothlight RBTS WIN w/ Stranger Day (electronic, pop, rock, dj, hip-hop), 8:30pm

grey eagle Music hall & tavern Pleasures of the Ultraviolent: Live Recording (punk, rock), 8pm

WEDNESDAY

12.17

8PM THURSDAY

SOL BAR OSO REY PRESENTS:

BRIDGE OVER ASHEVILLE FEATURING ROBERT ELLIS SOL BAR

12.18

FATE JAM FEATURING CAMERON STACK

12.20

THEATRE

JGBCB W/PHUNCLE SAM

12.31

ASHEVILLE NEW YEAR’S EVE 2015 MASQUERADE

1.1

THEATRE SERVICE INDUSTRY NYE PARTY

7PM SATURDAY 9PM WEDNESDAY

8:30PM THURSDAY

9PM THURSDAY

1.8

7PM FRIDAY

1.9 7PM

THEATRE

FEATURING THE LEE BOYS SOL BAR FATE JAM PRESENTS:

JONATHAN BYRD SOL BAR

7PM FRIDAY

1.9

WEEKLY JAM & FOOD DRIVE

ARIELLE VAKNI THEATRE

GLEN PHILLIPS

(OF TOAD THE WET SPROCKET) UPCOMING: 1/9: KAMINANDA 1/16: RUMPKE MOUNTAIN BOYS 1/17&18: THE NILE PROJECT 1/17: HANK AND CUPCAKES 1/24: RYAN MONTBLEAU BAND

12/19 BLUEGRASS 10/25CANYON SarahCREEK Lee Guthrie

(ALL-STAR BLUEGRASS BAND) FEATURING & Johnny Irion MEMBERS OF STEEP CANYON RANGERS, w/ Battlefield • 9pm $10 TOWN MOUNTAIN, JON STICKLY

TRIO AND Firecracker LARRY KEEL W/ SAVANNAH 10/26 Jazz Band SMITH 9 P.M.$10 & HALLOWEEN Costume

Party & Contest • 9pm $8 10/27 OF Vinegar Creek9 P.M.$5 • 9pm FREE MEMBERS SANCTUM SULLY) 10/28 Mustard Plug • 9pm $8 12/26 DEX ROMWEBER (SOLO) w/ Crazy Tom Banana Pants SPECIAL HOLIDAZE SHOW W/ COUPLE SKATE 9 P.M.$8 10/29 Singer Songwriters in the Round • 7-9pm FREE Party & GREENLINERS Contest • 9pm $8 12/20 THE (FEATURING

12/27 JONNY MONSTER BAND w/ Anthony Tripi, Elise Davis 9 P.M.$5 Mud Tea • 9pm FREE

Open Mon-Thurs at 3 • Fri-Sun at Noon SUN Celtic Irish Session 5pm til ? MON Quizzo! 7-9p • WED Old-Time 5pm SINGER SONGWRITERS 1st & 3rd TUES THURS Bluegrass Jam 7pm

95 Patton at Coxe • Asheville 252.5445 • jackofthewood.com mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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Downtown on the Park

bicycles clothing computers electronics furniture lawn & garden sporting goods yard sales roommates text books ... and more!

Eclectic Menu • Over 30 Taps • Patio 13 TV’s • Sports Room • 110” Projector Event Space • Shuffleboard • Darts Open 7 Days 11am - Late Night

PacPk’s GifT carDs T s he

erfecT

Tocki nG sTuffer! r info, or visiT o f The w er! ll ebsiTe To orD ca

THU. 12/18 Jason Whittaker (acoustic rock)

FRI. 12/19 DJ MoTo

(pop, dance hits)

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10% off of labor to:

teaCHers (thank you for educating our youth) Hospital employees (we are grateful for all that you do) & Grove park inn & biltmore employees We value you all! We proudly recycle all shop products including oil, anti-freeze, cardboard, paper, all metal, and batteries.

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SAT. 12/20 A Social Function

(rock & roll, classic hits)

Countdown to 2015: New Year’s Eve Bash! 3 Floors, 3 Bars, 2 DJs & Favors!

$14 Bottles of Champagne Featuring “The Mix” 96.5 House Band in the Century Room! Featuring DJ Moto in the South Bar! ONLY $10! (cover starting at 8pm)

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Buffet ticket includes the $10 Countdown Bash!

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uLtRavio-LivE aLBum: Citing Asheville’s The Get Down (now The Odditorium) as the band’s birthplace, The Pleasures of the Ultraviolent just wants to “spread the old-school punk-rock vibe.” This time, Pleasures will get a bigger stage — performing at The Grey Eagle (while recording for a live album) at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20, with Celt-rockers Cutthroat Shamrock.

highland Brewing coMpany Holiday Medley (jazz, Latin, swing), 6:30pm

oskar Blues Brewery Doug Gibson (blues), 6pm

iron horse station Mark Bumgarner (classic Americana), 7pm

pack’s tavern A Social Function (classic hits, rock ’n’ roll), 9pm

isis restaurant & Music hall Saturday Classical Brunch w/ The Woodsong Clarinet Choir (classical), 11am Jack of the wood puB The Greenliners (folk, bluegrass), 9pm

purple onion cafe Ragged Orchids (alt-country, pop), 8pm

JerusaleM garden Middle Eastern music & bellydancing, 7pm

scandals nightcluB DJ dance party & drag show, 10pm

leX 18 The Byron Hedgepeth Vibes Trio (modern, Latin, original jazz), 8:30pm

scully’s DJ, 10pm

loBster trap Sean Mason Trio (jazz), 6:30pm

southern appalachian Brewery Ugly Sweater Show w/ The Stipe Brothers & Dan Ruiz (pop, rock), 8pm

Marco’s piZZeria Sharon LaMotte Band (jazz), 6pm

spring creek tavern Ugly Sweater Christmas Party, 8pm

Market place DJs (funk, R&B), 7pm

tallgary’s cantina Rusted Kage (classic rock), 9:30pm

new Mountain Jerry Garcia Band Cover Band, Phuncle Sam (Grateful Dead covers, tribute), 9pm

the adMiral Soul night w/ DJ Dr. Filth, 11pm

odditoriuM Edhoculi, Dead Mothers, Razor Apple (punk, hardcore), 9pm off the wagon Dueling pianos, 9pm BE

ST OF

20 WNC

WE rEpLACE priuS BATTEriES (3 yEAr WArrANTy) Pet friendly (we have dog treats, hear the doggie?)

mostly automotive 253 biltmore ave. 828-253-4981 52

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

20 S. Spruce St. • 225.6944 PacksTavern.com mountainx.com

pisgah Brewing coMpany Gaslight Street (blues, rock), 8pm

olive or twist 42nd Street (jazz, swing), 8pm one stop deli & Bar Spaghetti Junction Tour w/ Scotty ATL, City B, Fast Ronald, Domino Slime (avl hip-hop), 10pm orange peel Rising Appalachia plus Climbing PoeTree (bluegrass, folk, Americana), 9pm

the Mothlight Frontier Ruckus w/ Firekid & Rough Coat (folk, rock), 9:30pm the phoeniX Riyen Roots & Kenny Dore (blues), 9pm the social Get Vocal Karaoke, 9:30pm tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues Al Coffee & Da Grind (blues), 10pm twisted laurel Chris Rhodes CD release party, 8pm vincenZo’s Bistro Steve Whiddon (classic piano), 5:30pm

white horse Black Mountain Malcolm Holcombe, 8pm wild wing cafe Jam Boogie Band (jam, funk), 9pm wild wing cafe south Lyric (funk, soul), 9pm

sunday, deceMBer 21 5 walnut wine Bar The Roaring Lions Trio (jazz), 7pm altaMont Brewing coMpany Vinyl night w/ DJ Kilby, 9pm Blue kudZu sake coMpany Karaoke & brunch, 2pm Blue Mountain piZZa & Brew puB Luke Wood, 7pm Burger Bar Trivia, 7pm diana worthaM theatre A Swannanoa Solstice (holiday performance), 2pm douBle crown Karaoke w/ Tim O, 9pm grey eagle Music hall & tavern Honky Tonk X-Mas w/ The Silent Knights & The Krektones (rock, surf-rock), 8pm isis restaurant and Music hall Jazz showcase, 6pm Jack of the wood puB Irish session, 5pm leX 18 Jeff Knorr (modern jazz piano), 7pm loBster trap Leo Johnson (bluegrass, jazz, swing, top 40 from 1940), 6:30pm MoJo kitchen & lounge Sunday night swing, 5pm odditoriuM Wet Brain, Spliff, Dispatch Calls (punk), 9pm off the wagon Piano show, 9pm olive or twist DJ (oldies rock, swing), 8pm one stop deli & Bar Bluegrass brunch w/ Woody Wood, 11am Steely Dan Sunday, 9pm orange peel Three Spirits: A multimedia performance of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”, 4pm scandals nightcluB DJ dance party & drag show, 10pm

vincenZo’s Bistro Steve Whiddon (classic piano), 5:30pm

5 walnut wine Bar Lyric (acoustic soul), 8pm altaMont Brewing coMpany Old-time jam, 8pm Burger Bar Honky-tonk ladies night, 4pm

Next $30 Student Massage Clinic Starts 1/8

Bywater Open mic w/ Taylor Martin, 9pm

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courtyard gallery Open mic (music, poetry, comedy, etc.), 8pm

Jack of the wood puB Quizzo, 7pm

HUGE selection of novelties 30% off.

leXington ave Brewery (laB) Kipper’s “Totally Rad” Trivia night, 8pm loBster trap Bobby Miller & Friends (bluegrass), 6:30pm off the wagon Open mic, 8pm oskar Blues Brewery Mountain Music Mondays (open jam), 6pm the Mothlight Gold Light, War Woman (indie, newmodern, singer-songwriter), 9pm the phoeniX Jeff Sipe & Friends (jazz-fusion), 8pm the social Kevin Scanlon (folk, old-time), 6pm tiger Mountain Country night w/ John Black (country, honky-tonk, Southern rock), 10pm vincenZo’s Bistro Steve Whiddon (classic piano), 5:30pm white horse Black Mountain Lightbulb Trio & guests (improvisational jazz), 7:30pm

tuesday, deceMBer 23

tallgary’s cantina Jason Brazzel (acoustic), 6pm

5 walnut wine Bar The John Henrys (ragtime, jazz), 8pm

the phoeniX Bradford Carson Duo (mountain music), 12pm

altaMont Brewing coMpany Open mic w/ Jam Samwich, 8pm

tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues The Red & Black Ball w/ Westsound (Motown), 5pm

SUN-THUR 8AM-MIDNIGHT FRI-SAT 8AM-3AM

grey eagle Music hall & tavern Contra dance, 7pm

185 king street Mission Mogra benefit concert, 8pm

tiger Mountain Seismic Sunday w/ Matthew Schrader (doom, sludge, drone, psych-metal), 10pm

OPEN 7 DAYS

douBle crown Punk ’n’ roll w/ DJ Leo Delightful, 10pm

southern appalachian Brewery Todd Hoke Band (folk, Americana), 5pm

the social Karaoke, 9:30pm

675 Hour Massage Certification Starts April 2015 Discounts Available

Monday, deceMBer 22

asheville Music hall Tuesday Night Funk Jam, 11pm Black Mountain ale house Trivia, 7pm

OPEN MON-SAT 12PM-8PM EXTENDED HOURS DURING SHOWS FOR TICKET HOLDERS

FREE $5 gift card with $25 purchase

OPEN AT 5PM FOR SUNDAY SHOWS

FREE $10 gift card with $50 purchase

BYRDS Of a fEatHER II: fRI a tribute to GRaM PaRSONS & GENE CLaRK 12/19 9pm • $12/$15

FREE $15 gift card with $60 purchase

Sat Pleasures of the Ultraviolent: LIvE aLBUM RECORDING 12/20 9pm • $5/$8

GIFT CARDS

SUN 12/21

available for

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with tHE SILENt KNIGHtS & tHE KREKtONES

8pm • $8

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FREE $20 gift card with $80 purchase

New Year’s Eve with YO MaMa’S BIG fat BOOtY BaND & tHE BROaDCaSt 9pm • $25/$30

an evening with

WED fRED EaGLESMItH 1/07 tRavELING StEaM SHOW 8pm • $10 an evening with Sat MaC aRNOLD & PLatE 1/10 fULL O’BLUES 8pm • $15/$18

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Where Adult Dreams Come True

Blue Mountain piZZa & Brew puB Patrick Fitzsimons (blues, folk), 7pm

2334 Hendersonville Rd.

Buffalo nickel Trivia, 7pm

(S. Asheville/Arden)

www.bedtymestories.net mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

cLuBLanD

WED & SAT

KARAOKE!

cluB eleven on grove Swing lessons & dance w/ Swing Asheville, 6:30pm Tango lessons & practilonga w/ Tango Gypsies, 7pm

Smokey’s

cork & keg Honky-tonk Jamboree w/ Tom Pittman, 6:30pm

After Dark

douBle crown Punk ’n’ roll w/ DJs Sean & Will, 10pm

OPEN 7 Nights-A-Week 4pm-2am

18 Broadway Downtown

253-2155

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good stuff Old Time Jam, 7pm iron horse station Open mic, 6pm isis restaurant and Music hall Bluegrass sessions, 7:30pm laurey’s catering and gourMet to go Ukulele jam, 5:30pm leX 18 Andrew J. Fletcher (old-time, stride jazz piano), 7pm loBster trap Jay Brown (acoustic-folk, singer-songwriter), 7pm Marco’s piZZeria Sharon LaMotte Band (jazz), 6:30pm Market place The Rat Alley Cats (jazz, Latin, swing), 7pm odditoriuM Odd comedy night, 9pm off the wagon Rock ’n’ roll bingo, 8pm one stop deli & Bar Turntablism Tuesdays (multiple DJ’s), 10pm pour taprooM Frank Zappa night, 8pm scully’s Open mic w/ Jeff Anders, 9pm tallgary’s cantina Jam night, 9pm the social Jason Whittaker (acoustic-rock), 6:30pm

crow & quill Orphan’s Christmas (classic movies & hot drinks), 5pm dugout Karaoke, 9pm grind cafe Trivia night, 7pm Jack of the wood puB Old-time session, 5pm leX 18 Patrick Lopez (Latin jazz piano), 7pm loBster trap Ben Hovey (dub-jazz, trumpet), 7pm MoJo kitchen & lounge DJ Molly Parti “Get Over the Hump-day” dance party (funk, soul, hip-hop), 5:30pm Mountain MoJo coffeehouse Open mic, 6:30pm noBle kava Open mic w/ Caleb Beissert, 9pm off the wagon Piano show, 9pm olive or twist Swing dance lessons w/ Bobby Wood, 7:30pm 3 Cool Cats (vintage rock), 8pm rooM iX Latin night w/ DJ Carlos Carmona, 9pm tallgary’s cantina Open mic & jam, 7pm the phoeniX Jazz night, 8pm

tiMo’s house An Evening w/ Nex Millen & Friends, 10pm

the southern Disclaimer Comedy open mic, 9pm

town puMp Laura Jane Vincent (country-folk, indierock), 9pm

tiger Mountain Sean Dail (classic punk, power-pop, rock), 10pm

tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues Funk & jazz jam w/ Pauly Juhl, 8:30pm

tiMo’s house Spectrum AVL w/ Dam Good (dance party), 9pm

white horse Black Mountain Irish sessions & open mic, 6:30pm

wednesday, deceMBer 24 Ben’s tune-up Live band karaoke w/ The Diagnostics, 9pm Black Mountain ale house Buncombe County Boys (folk, bluegrass), 7:30pm

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Bywater Soul night w/ DJ Whitney, 8:30pm

the social Ashli Rose (singer-songwriter), 6:30pm Karaoke, 10pm

westville puB Blues jam, 10pm

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

Burger Bar Tom Waits night, 9pm

tiger Mountain Tuesday Tests w/ Chris Ballard (techno, house, experimental, downtempo), 10pm

vincenZo’s Bistro Steve Whiddon (classic piano), 5:30pm

Blue kudZu sake coMpany Bill Gerhardt’s Trio South (jazz), 6pm

town puMp Open mic w/ Aaron, 9pm Christmas Eve Polka Party, 9pm tressa’s downtown JaZZ and Blues Blues & soul jam w/ Al Coffee & Da Grind, 8:30pm vincenZo’s Bistro Lenny Petenelli (high-energy piano), 7pm white horse Black Mountain Kim Hughes & Bob Hinkle, 7pm wild wing cafe south Karaoke, 6pm

M O V I E S C

H S

by Ken Hanke & Justin Souther

A &

HHHHH = max rating contact xpressmovies@aol.com

PicK oF thE WEEK

thEatER ListinGs

Wild HHHHH

FRiDay, DEcEmBER 19 thuRsDay, DEcEmBER 25 Due to possible scheduling changes, moviegoers may want to confirm showtimes with theaters.

DiREctoR: Jean-Marc Vallée PLayERs: Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski, Gaby Hoffmann, Keene McRae, W. Earl Brown

Asheville PizzA & Brewing Co. (254-1281) The Book of life (Pg) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 guardians of the galaxy (Pg-13) 10:00

Fact-BasED DRama RatED R thE stoRy: Fact-based story of Cheryl Strayed, based on her memoir Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. thE LoWDoWn: A strong performance from Reese Witherspoon, a solid screenplay by Nick Hornby and assuredly creative direction by Jean-Marc Vallée make Wild a very good movie indeed.

One of the more pleasant surprises of awards season — where studios inundate viewers and critics with what they perceive as their “best efforts” — is Jean-Marc Vallée’s Wild. This is not to say that the film isn’t on the Oscar-bait side, but then so is everything else of note at this time of year. And I won’t deny that this tale of self-discovery has some issues — like at least two more mystical CGI foxes than should be allowed by law. Nor will I pretend that a large part of the movie’s raison d’etre isn’t to reinvent Reese Witherspoon as a daring, edgy actress. But the truth is it kind of does, though not because she takes her clothes off, has indiscriminate sex, does drugs, makes disastrous life choices and is a serial adulteress. No, it’s because she allows herself to be deglamorized. Agreeing to lighten her load by jettisoning her deodorant, she admits, “I stink. I stink all the time, and my armpits are the least of it.” That may be the

CArmike CinemA 10 (298-4452) CArolinA CinemAs (274-9500)

REEsE WithERsPoon stars as a woman trying to sort out her disordered life by hiking the Pacific Coast Trail in Jean-Marc Vallée’s Wild.

least glamorous thing ever said by a lead actress in the history of film, and it is only one example. While I am not against Witherspoon in general, neither can I call myself a fan, and she was my primary concern going into Wild. Yes, it’s partly her trademark perkiness, which is not an issue here at all (nor is it one in the upcoming Inherent Vice). But it’s more the pitch of her voice that tends to grate on me when it reaches a point near what only dogs can hear. That only happens once in Wild — she screams, “Fuck you, bitch!” at a boot that has fallen off a mountain — and it’s at about the two-minute mark, so it’s over and done with quickly. It’s rather like pulling a Band-Aid — or in her character’s case, a toenail — off quickly. After that, she never irritated me. I think it’s because Witherspoon has chosen to reinvent — or at least radically expand — herself in a story that is about reinvention — not only for her character, Cheryl Strayed, but for Cheryl’s mother, Bobbi (Laura Dern). It all feels very personal. However, this tale of Cheryl Strayed — perhaps ill-advisedly, certainly ill-preparedly — hiking the

Pacific Coast Trail in an attempt to rediscover herself (or “the woman my mother thought I was,” as the film has it), is not just a Reese Witherspoon show, even if she is carrying the bulk of it. Credit must be given to Jean-Marc Vallée’s direction and Nick Hornby’s screenplay, which at least feels like it had input from Vallée or was broken down by him — much of the structure and approach resembles Vallée’s Dallas Buyers Club from last year. The funny thing is while I think Dallas Buyers Club the better film, I think Wild is both better made and makes more successful and important use of the often very brief flashbacks that are common to both films. Here — where we’re just dropped into the story with no background — these cutaways actually establish Strayed’s past and the events that have led to this journey. In Dallas Buyers Club they mostly just reiterate things we already knew. The fact that we only understand Strayed in bits and pieces — much like Strayed — makes her journey our own. Wild is also a very well-crafted movie in other respects. It’s interesting that the inevitable target a

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Annie (Pg) 11:35, 2:10, 4:50, 7:30, 10:10 The Babadook (nr) Wed-Thu 1:40, 3:50, 6:15, 8:20, 10:20 Fri-Wed 6:45, 10:15 Big hero 6 2D (Pg) 11:20, 1:45, 4:10 Birdman or (The Unexpected virtue of ignorance) (r) 11:10, 1:35, 4:20, 6:55, 9:40 exodus: gods and kings 2D (Pg-13) 12:00, 3:45, 7:25,10:30 The hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies 3D (Pg-13) 12/18 1:45, 4:45, 7:50 The hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies 2D (Pg-13) 10:45, 11:15, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15, 3:15, 4:15, 5:15, 6:20, 7:20, 8:20, 9:30, 10:30, 10:50 The homesman (r) 11:20, 2:00, 4:55, 7:35, 9:00 The hunger games: mockingjay — Part 1 (Pg-13) 11:05, 1:55, 4:35, 7:15, 10:00 night at the museum: secret of the Tomb (Pg) 10:40, 11:30, 12:45, 1:50, 2:50, 4:10, 5:00, 6:15, 7:15, 8:20, 10:25 Penguins of madagascar 2D (Pg) 10:55 The Theory of everything (Pg-13) 10:50, 1:55, 4:30, 7:00, 9:45 wild (r) 11:10, 1:40, 4:25, 7:00, 9:35 Co-eD CinemA BrevArD (883-2200) Annie (Pg) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 ePiC oF henDersonville (693-1146) Fine ArTs TheATre (232-1536) Birdman or (The Unexpected virtue of ignorance) (r) 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, Late Show Fri-Sat 9:40 wild (r) 1:00. 4:00, 7:00 Late Show Fri-Sat 9:30 FlATroCk CinemA (697-2463) Annie (Pg) Fri-Tue, Thu 3:45, 7:00 wed 12:30, 3:45 regAl BilTmore grAnDe sTADiUm 15 (684-1298) UniTeD ArTisTs BeAUCATCher (298-1234)

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

moviEs

by Ken Hanke & Justin Souther

woman undertaking this trek alone will (with minimal melodrama) become, the idea is first put forth by a low-minded motel desk clerk (Beth Hall), who immediately assumes that a woman alone must be on the make. That this attitude is expressed by another woman makes the moment stand out. Also, the soundtrack is beautifully applied, especially the use of Simon and Garfunkel’s “El Condor Pasa (If I Could)” as a recurring theme that we’re teased with before we hear the song. Frankly, I thought this was a song I’d had a sufficiency of by 1971, but here it feels almost new again — familiar, but just right. Truthfully, “just right” largely describes the whole film to me, even with its occasional missteps. A great movie? Probably not, but a very good one. Rated R for sexual content, nudity, drug use and language. Starts Friday at Carolina Cinemas and Fine Arts Theatre.

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Exodus: Gods and Kings H DiREctoR: Ridley Scott pLayERs: Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, Ben Kingsley, John Turturro, Sigourney Weaver, Aaron Paul BiBLicaL DRama RatED pg-13 thE stoRy: The story of Moses with CGI. thE LowDown: Theologically dubious, dramatically inert and just plain boring even with all its stateof-the-art effects. And it goes on for two-and-a-half very long hours.

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

I admit I wasn’t expecting much out of Ridley Scott’s Exodus: Gods and Kings, but I at least expected some unintentional amusement. What I got instead was two-andone-half-hours of half-baked, boring mess. This may, in fact, be most boring movie I’ve seen all year. You know the biblical epic you’re watching is in trouble when you find yourself wishing that Edward G. Robinson would wander in from

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Cecil B. DeMille’s 1956 version of The Ten Commandments to liven up this biblical beached whale. (Face it, Eddie G. improbably saying things like, “Yeah, he’s been gone 40 days and 40 nights, see? He’s not comin’ back. We’ll build a golden calf, see?” would’ve been worth a lot of money in this lifeless lump.) Make no mistake, this isn’t the loopy visionary revisionism of Darren Aronofsky’s Noah from earlier this year. No, this is a confused dose of barely thought-out BS that plays more like a superhero origin story than anything else — complete with a surfeit of daddy issues. Mr. Scott and his four credited screenwriters appear to have had it in mind to make the rationalist version of The Ten Commandments. As a concept, that doesn’t wring my withers, but then I’m not much of a believer. The problem is that they can’t figure out how to go about it. Take the plagues — please. They put forth quasi-explanations for water turning to blood, the infestation of frogs, the flies, the boils, etc. That some of these explanations are more far-fetched than the magical explanations is perhaps beside the point. That they can’t come up with a rational excuse for the death of the firstborn and just let it ride — right down to marking the Hebrew dwellings with lamb’s blood so that God gets it right — turns the whole revisionist idea into nonsense. Other supposed “transgressions” like Moses only seeing God — in the form of Isaac Andrews as a kind of spoiled brat 11-yearold boy with a freshly-out-of-military-school buzz cut — after being struck on the head fare no better. OK, so Moses is delusional. Fine, but how is it that all the miracle biz happens if Moses is just a barking lunatic? Now, it has been questioned as to why this ersatz ancient Hebrew would see God as a Brit schoolboy, but we have it on the authority of Peter Cook in Bedazzled (1967) that God is English, and that’s good enough for me. At the same time, I do like the idea of Moses as God’s secretary, holed up in a cave chiseling out the Ten Commandments. (“Moses, take a tablet ...” How do we know Moses was any more reliable as a secretary than Zeppo Marx in Animal Crackers?) Of course, there’s the question of the movie’s racially incorrect casting. Well, it kind of makes this of a piece with the biblical pictures this

HHHHH = max rating apes, no matter how you feel about it. I understand Scott needing a box office name, and I buy that in terms of Christian Bale (even if his name is rather unfortunate), but seriously, Joel Edgerton as Ramses? At what point in what alternative history of the movies did Joel Edgerton become a box office draw? Did you ever say, “I’ve got to see that new Joel Edgerton picture?” Did anyone — apart from close relatives? Yul Brynner may not have been Egyptian, but he at least looked exotic. Edward G. Robinson might be the most ludicrous casting in The Ten Commandments, but he actually was Jewish. None of this would really matter if the movie was good or even entertaining, but, no, it’s just plodding, dull and dumb. Oh, sure, the CGI-athon of special effects more or less works, but so what? They feel as rote and “just there” as the cardboard characters. Yeah, the parting of the Red Sea looked like a special effect when DeMille did it in 1956 and 1923, but it was at least special. There was a sense of true awe from a filmmaker who was at least a showman. All we have here are pixels. Maybe it’s just me, but those miracles more and more leave me feeling like the fellow in Oscar Wilde’s Salome — “I don’t believe in miracles; I’ve seen too many.” I certainly don’t believe in this movie. Rated PG-13 for violence including battle sequences and intense images. Playing at Carmike 10, Carolina Cinemas, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande.

Top Five HHHHH

DiREctoR: Chris Rock pLayERs: Chris Rock, Rosario Dawson, J.B. Smoove, Gabrielle Union, Romany Malco comEDy RatED R thE stoRy: A comedian and actor — who’s trying his best to be taken as a serious artist — spends the day with a New York Times reporter on the weekend of his wedding to a reality star and the opening of his new, big film. thE LowDown: While it takes its time to get its footing and has the occasional misstep, the parts that work soar, making for an intelligent, raunchy, adult and genuinely funny film.

I’ve long been a fan of Chris Rock, a man whose career has never quite skyrocketed like his talent might suggest it should. His movies, at best, have been curious and at worst have starred Adam Sandler, but he’s never quite reached anything approaching greatness. He’s shown flashes. When I reviewed his last directorial effort, 2007’s odd, off-kilter I Think I Love My Wife, I wrote, “Chris Rock is bound to make a really good movie one of these days. Not necessarily a great film, but an honest, intelligent, funny film that does everything it’s supposed to. He’s just too smart and likable on screen for me to think that this isn’t possible; he just has yet to put it all together.” With his latest, Top Five, I’m not sure he’s quite reached greatness (though the film has grown on me in the short time since I watched it), but he’s gotten damn close. Even with a handful of glaring flaws, this is Rock truly trying to make a film that will last, one that’s intelligent, mature, raunchy, topical, romantic and — above all else — funny. The style and modus operandi of Top Five owe a lot to Woody Allen. This isn’t too surprising — I Think I Love My Wife and Rock’s turn in 2 Days in New York (2012) owe a lot to Allen, though here, Rock’s taken some of Allen’s ideas and peeves and filtered them through his own worldview. Rock plays Andre Allen (perhaps the last name is a dead giveaway), a comedian, actor and recovering alcoholic who’s not only about to marry a reality TV star (Gabrielle Union), but also has a new — and seemingly ridiculous — film on the Haitian slave revolt opening, which he sees as his chance to finally be taken seriously. Like Allen’s Sandy Bates in Stardust Memories (1980), however, the public wants him to return to his “early, funny stuff,” though in the case of Andre, it’s for him to reprise the role of Hammy the Bear, a cop in a bear suit. To help push his serious film, Andre’s set up with New York Times reporter Chelsea Brown (Rosario Dawson in a great performance), who doesn’t so much want to promote his film as get him to open up about his alcoholism and discuss why he doesn’t make funny movies anymore. The bulk of the film is the two wandering New York as Andre does radio interviews and press junkets, while their contentious relationship — as they open up to one another — slowly soft-

ens. This type of dialogue-heavy comedy works because it allows Rock’s writing and keen eye for social commentary to flourish, but there’s nothing stuffy about the film, especially since Rock’s made a very R-rated comedy that occasionally revels in bad taste (something that I suspect will turn off a lot of people). He manages to do this while accomplishing something even trickier — drawing a rich celebrity who is sympathetic and can actually be related to. Normally, when movies attempt to draw attention to the high price of fame (think Judd Apatow’s Funny People) they come across as whiny and overwrought — not here, though, where there’s a genuine humanity in the desires and relationships of the film’s characters. The film does make a handful of missteps, but even when they do happen, Rock makes up for them. The 20 minutes the film wanders around finding its footing is forgivable in the way Rock structures the film, cleverly jumping back and forth and in and out of flashbacks. An overlong, generally unfunny cameo for Adam Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld is more than made up for with an inspired guest spot from DMX. It’s this kind of irreverence and — for Rock, at least — welcome selfindulgent ambition that fuels Top Five and makes it worth seeking out. Rated R for strong sexual content, nudity, crude humor, language throughout and some drug use. Playing at Regal Biltmore Grande and UA Beaucatcher.

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Community Screenings groovy Movie cluB 926-3508, johnbuckleyX@gmail.com • FR (12/19), 7pm - Paycheck to Paycheck: The Life & Times of Katrina Gilbert. Held in private home. Contact for directions. Free. puBlic liBrary screenings buncombecounty.org/governing/depts/ library • TH (12/18), 3pm - The Polar Express. Free. Held at Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St.

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DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

fREEwiLL astRoLogy

by Rob Brezny

ARIES (March 21-April 19): "Too much happiness can make you unhappy," reported journalist Marta Zaraska in the Washington Post. Citing research by psychologists, she concluded that being super-extra cheerful can make you selfish, gullible and more prone to stereotyped thinking. On the other hand, she said, maintaining merely moderate levels of happiness is pretty damn good for your mental and physical health. So here's the takeaway, Aries: The astrological omens suggest you're due for a surge of joy and pleasure. Just be careful it doesn't spill over into rash, delirious excess. Here's your watchword: well-grounded delight. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the 19th century, the Grimm brothers gathered over 200 old fairy tales from a variety of sources and published them in an unprecedented collection. Many of their stories are still popular, including "Cinderella," "Snow White," "Hansel and Gretel," and "Rapunzel." Around the same time they did their work, a storyteller named Franz Xaver von Schönwerth assembled his own compendium of fantastic myths, fables and folklore. Unlike the Grimm brothers' book, his work faded into obscurity. But it was rediscovered in 2011, and 500 lost fairy tales are now finding their way into newly published books. I foresee a comparable phenomenon happening for you in 2015, Taurus. Forgotten stories will return. Raw material from the depths will resurface. Interesting news from the past will come flowing into the present. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your first task is to ascertain the half-truth, the whole half-truth and nothing but the whole half-truth. Only then will you be able to find the other half of the truth. I realize it may be frustrating to use this approach. You'd probably prefer to avoid wrangling with the deceptions and misdirections. But I think it's the only way to jostle loose the hidden or missing information. For best results, be a cunning and unsentimental detective who's eager to solve the mystery. Don't focus on finding fault or assigning blame.

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CANCER (June 21-July 22): One of the ingredients that makes yoga mats so soft and springy is the chemical azodicarbonamide. The same stuff is added to the soles of shoes. There's a third place where it's used, too: in the burger buns sold by McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's and other fast food joints. I'm not suggesting that you order a big supply of azodicarbonamide and ingest it. But I do hope you will consider the metaphorical equivalent: doing whatever's necessary to make yourself bouncy and fluffy and pliable and supple and resilient. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): "There are two kinds of light," said author James Thurber, "the glow that illuminates, and the glare that obscures." Lately you have been an abundant source of that first kind of light, Leo. The fire in your heart and the gleam in your eyes have not only brightened the mood wherever you've gone. They have also clarified confusing situations, warmed chilly attitudes and healed dispirited allies. Thank you! In the coming weeks, I'd love to see you continue on your hot streak. To help ensure that you do, keep your ego under control. Don't let it pretend that it owns the light you're emitting. With a little introspection, you will continue to generate illumination, not glare. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Studies suggest that 57 percent of all people with access to the Internet have engaged in the practice known as ego-surfing. This modern art form consists of searching Google for mentions of one's own name. This is a suspiciously low figure unless we factor in the data uncovered by my own research — which is that a disproportionately small amount of Virgos go ego-surfing: only 21 percent. If you are one of the 79 percent of your tribe who does not indulge, I invite you to remedy the situation. It's an excellent time to risk exploring the potential benefits of increased self-interest and self-regard. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): When I started writing horoscopes many years ago, I was a good astrologer but an unexceptional writer. Eventually, the practice of composing 12 packets of pithy prose every week allowed me to improve my authorial skills. The stuff

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “A savage desire for strong emotions and sensations burns inside me: a rage against this soft-tinted, shallow, standardized and sterilized life.” So says Harry Haller, the protagonist of Herman Hesse’s novel Steppenwolf. His declaration could serve as an interesting point of reference for you in the coming months, Sagittarius — not as a mood for everyday use, but as a poetic inspiration that you periodically call on to invigorate your lust for life. My invitation has a caveat, however. I advise you not to adopt the rest of Harry Haller’s rant, in which he says that he also has “a mad craving to smash something up, a department store, or a cathedral, or myself.”

I composed in the early years wasn't bad, but I wouldn't want to present it as my work anymore. So should I feel guilty that I got paid and appreciated for those old efforts even though I was less than perfect? Did I get away with something I shouldn't have gotten away with? I don't think so. I was doing the best I could at the time. And even my unpolished astrological musings were helpful to many people. Now, Libra, I invite you to apply these meditations to your own unfolding destiny. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may already know what I'm about to tell you. It's a core principle at the root of your Scorpio heritage. But I want to focus your attention on it. In the coming months, you'll be wise to keep it at the forefront of your conscious awareness. Here it is, courtesy of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche: "You have it in your power to invest everything you have lived through — your experiments, false starts, errors, delusions, passions, your love and your hope — into your goal, with nothing left over." CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I have lived near an open space preserve for five years. Up until the last two months, it has been a peaceful, quiet place. But then the coyotes moved in. Just after dusk every evening, a pack of them start yipping and yowling in the distance. At first I found the racket to be eerie and unsettling. It activated some primal unease in me. Yet the coyotes have never actually been a problem. They don't roam into my neighborhood and try to bite people or prey on pets. So now I've come to relish the situation: The wild things are close and exciting, but not dangerous. I'm guessing this has a metaphorical resemblance to what your life will be like in the next six months, Capricorn. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Stanstead, Quebec and Derby Line, Vt., are really a single town that straddles the border between the U.S. and Canada. Many of the people who live there have dual citizenship, but they're still supposed to carry their passports with them at all times. I suspect you may experience a metaphorical version of this split in the coming months, Aquarius. You will be in a situation that has a split down the middle or a seemingly unnatural division. Whether it turns out to be a problem or an opportunity will depend on your adaptability and flexibility. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When a dead tree topples over in the woods, its withered branches may get entangled with the branches of a living tree that's standing nearby. As years go by, the living tree must grow the best it can with the decaying wood trapped in its midst. Has something like that ever happened to you? Are you still carrying the rot that other people have burdened you with? If so, the coming months will be an excellent time to get disentangled. A tree isn't capable of freeing itself from the dead weight of the past, but you are — especially in the first half of 2015.

spEciaL scREEnings

staRting wEDnEsDay

Donovan’s Reef HHHHS

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Director: John Ford players: John Wayne, Lee Marvin, Elizabeth Allen, Jack Warden, Cesar Romero, Dorothy Lamour, Marcel Dalio comEDy Rated NR John Ford’s Donovan’s Reef (1963) is a bona fide Christmas movie if ever there was one — but with the unusual setting of a South Seas island (played by Kauai, Hawaii, with studio work at Paramount in Hollywood). The truth is that while this is housed in a John Wayne vehicle in the John Ford barroom brawling mode, it is also a deeply felt statement on racial tolerance. The plot revolves around “Guns” Donovan (Wayne) and “Boats” Gilhooley (Lee Marvin) trying to prevent snooty Bostonian Amelia Dedham (Elizabeth Allen) from discovering that her estranged father, Dr. William Dedham (Jack Warden), married a Polynesian woman and had three children by her. Of course, things go somewhat awry, especially when she and Donovan become romantically involved. At the heart of the film is the most charming, touching and funny Christmas pageant ever made. The mere spectacle of Lee Marvin as “the King of the United States of America” bringing the baby Jesus a windup gramophone and Dorothy Lamour gravely singing “Silent Night” in a very leaky chapel is enough to put it over, but the whole movie is a delight. The Asheville Film Society will screen Donovan’s Reef Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 8 p.m. in Theater Six at The Carolina Asheville and will be hosted by Xpress movie critics Ken Hanke and Justin Souther.

OK, it’s finally over — which means that damned trailer will stop playing before every movie out there. Yes, it’s the last — no foolin’ — chapter in Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy. You know what it is. You know whether or not you’re going. The only real question here is whether or not it will seem to be ending six times — a la Return of the King — before it actually stops. (pg-13)

staRting fRiDay

Annie

Mystery of Edwin Drood HHHHS Director: Stuart Walker players: Claude Rains, Douglass Montgomery, Heather Angel, David Manners, Francis L. Sullivan, Valerie Hobson mystERy hoRRoR Rated NR Somewhere between a really creepy mystery and a prestige picture, Stuart Walker’s Mystery of Edwin Drood was an attempt to match Walker’s film of Great Expectations (1934), and it is a part of the little known director’s best works that also included The Eagle and the Hawk (1933) and Werewolf of London (1935). Universal took Charles Dickens’ final — and unfinished — novel and gave it an ending. Actually, they also removed much in the way of a mystery element — at least for the viewer, since there’s never much doubt as to who murdered the title character. At the same time, the screenplay manages to capture some great Dickens characters and a genuine sense of the author’s work. Surprisingly, the film was allowed to completely paint John Jasper (Claude Rains) as an opium addict (drug use of any kind was forbidden by the Production Code). What Walker brings to the film is a pervasive sense of unsettling atmosphere — so much so that the film earned its position as part of the Shock Theater package of Universal horrors. The Thursday Horror Picture Show will screen Mystery of Edwin Drood Thursday, Dec. 18, at 8 p.m. in Theater Six at The Carolina Asheville and will be hosted by Xpress movie critics Ken Hanke and Justin Souther.

Yojimbo HHHHS Director: Akira Kurosawa players: Toshirô Mifune, Tatsuya Nakadai, Yôko Tsukasa, Isuzu Yamada BLack comEDy / action Rated NR Yojimbo (1961) is one of Akira Kurosawa’s most entertaining films — and it was his biggest hit in Japan. I suppose you could say that’s because it’s one of his most accessible, though how a dark-humored Japanese Western based on an American hardboiled crime novel became accessible is something of a puzzlement. Nonetheless, its story of a slightly seedy — and utterly cynical — wandering Samurai cleaning up a rough and tumble town by letting the bad guys do all the work for him had, and still has, immediate audience appeal. Classic World Cinema by Courtyard Gallery will present Yojimbo Friday, Dec. 19, at 8 p.m. at Phil Mechanic Studios, 109 Roberts St., River Arts District (upstairs in the Railroad Library). Info: 2733332, www.ashevillecourtyard.com

fREE LiSTiNg!

The early reviews of Will Gluck’s updated and shiny new Annie are scant, but they largely bear out what are probably your worst fears. For instance, David Rooney in The Hollywood Reporter, remarked, “The sun’ll come out tomorrow, by which time this toxic mess should be forgotten.” In the Newark Star-Ledger Stephen Whitty cautioned, “Think you’ve got a hard-knock life? Try sitting through the new Annie.” The list goes on. (pg)

BUY•SELL•RENT

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Was anybody actually waiting on this sequel? The second one was already sufferng from diminishing returns. It took in more than $150 million less than the original, which did not keep it from making money. Now, here we are five-plus years later with what is obviously more of the same. Moving the action to the British Museum won’t change much. The fact that it’s a family friendly Christmas release will help — not to mention that it has the final performances of Robin Williams and Mickey Rooney. (pg)

Wild See Review in “Cranky Hanke.”

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Email us for one free real estate listing! realestate@mountainx.com mountainx.com/classifieds DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

stiLL showing

by Ken Hanke & Justin Souther

The Babadook HHHHS

plan to save themselves. A generally entertaining — if none too spectacular — comedy with a few clever bits that’s held up by its cast. Rated R

horror A single mother and her son are plagued by a mysterious creature known as Mr. Babadook. An absolutely superb horror film that is actually a good bit more than a horror film. Done in a classical formal style, it may remind you of Kubrick’s The Shining and the best of Polanski’s horrors. See this movie! Rated nR

Penguins of Madagascar HHHS

Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Hayley McElhinney, Daniel Henshall, Barbara West, Benjamin Winspear, Tim Purcell

The Homesman HHHHS Tommy Lee Jones, Hilary Swank, Grace Gummer, Miranda Otto, Sonja Richter, John Lithgow, James Spader, Meryl Streep Revisionist western Drama A self-sufficient frontier woman and the claim-jumper whose life she saves undertake transporting three dangerously unbalanced women back east. A beautifully made and acted revisionist western — leavened with dark humor — that proves to be one of the year’s most compelling films. Rated R

Horrible Bosses 2 HHH Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day, Chris Pine, Jamie Foxx, Chrisoph Waltz, Jennifer Aniston comedy The three best friends at the center of Horrible Bosses are screwed out of a business deal and concoct a kidnapping

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

(Voices) Tom McGrath, Chris Miller, Christopher Knights, Conrad Vernon, John Malkovich, Benedict Cumberbatch, Werner Herzog animated comedy The Madagascar penguins get a movie of their own in which they match wits with a villainous octopus. Breakneck paced, filled with rapid-fire gags and wordplay that are impossible to keep up with and blessed with a pleasing lunacy, Penguins of Madagascar mostly works but goes on a little too long. Rated pg

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay — Part 1 HHHS Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Donald Sutherland, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore Dystopian sci-fi The first half of the final chapter in The Hunger Games series finds the rebels preparing for an all-out war with the government. More intelligent, more interesting and generally better made than its prede-

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cessors, but it’s a film that would be hard to even follow for a newcomer. Rated pg-13

The Theory of Everything HHHH Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, David Thewlis, Emily Watson, Guy OliverWatts, Charlie Cox, Maxine Peake Biopic Biopic about Stephen Hawking and his wife Jane. Unabashed crowd-pleaser Oscar bait that works on that level — thanks in large part to the acting — but never really transcends the conventions of the biopic genre. Rated pg-13

Dumb and Dumber To S Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Kathleen Turner, Rob Riggle, Laurie Holden, Rachel Melvin alleged comedy Twenty years after the fact, we get the further adventures of Harry and Lloyd. The “much-anticipated” (they say) sequel to Dumb and Dumber (1994) is a shapeless retread of things that supposedly worked in the first movie. One of the worst films of 2014. Rated pg-13

Big Hero 6 HHHS (Voices) Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney, T.J. Miller, Jamie Chung

animated sci-fi fantasy action A boy, his inflatable robot and his friends track down the person who stole his invention and caused the death of his brother. Wonderful to look at, blessed with one terrific character and boasting a good deal of honest sentimentality, Big Hero 6 is brought down a notch by a well-worn plot and a desire to be a big superhero effort. Rated pg

Interstellar HHHH Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Wes Bentley, Jessica Chastain, Matt Damon, Michael Caine science fiction The only hope for a dying Earth is the discovery of an inhabitable planet that may — or may not — lie on the other side of a wormhole. A deeply flawed film that tries to be something more than it can manage, but it’s still an entertaining work of considerable intelligence. Rated pg-13

Nightcrawler HHHS Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Riz Ahmed, Bill Paxton action thriller with notions of satire A cheap sociopathic criminal finds his calling providing dubiously legal “news” footage to LA TV stations. Reasonably compelling — if unwholesome — portrait of a sociopath that falters in its attempt to be a satirical statement on modern media. Rated R

M A R K E T P L A C E REaL

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coMMercial/ Business rentals ATTENTION CRAFTERS • 2,000 sqft +/- waynesville, nc • Ideal office/warehouse/workspace downtown Waynesville. Decor would support craft-oriented use, distributor or low-traffic store. Negotiable. Call (828) 216-6066. goacherints34@gmail.com

wanted to rent 5 star tenant seeks 5 star landlord Health/ Green conscious, responsible, mature female seeks affordable one bedroom apartment, free of smoke, pets, mold, voc's, pesticides. Call 828-645-9579.

rooMMates rooMMates all areas - rooMMates. coM . Browse hundreds of online listings with photos and maps. Find your roommate with a click of the mouse! Visit: http:// www.Roommates.com. (AAN CAN)

eMployMent general AFRICA • BRAZIL WORK/ study! Change the lives of others while creating a sustainable future. 1, 6, 9, 18 month programs available. Apply now! www.OneWorldCenter. org (269) 591-0518. info@OneWorldCenter.org (AAN CAN) diesel Mechanic Opening for experienced diesel mechanic; minimum 5 years verifiable experience; certifications a plus; must have own tools; part-time, possible full-time. Jonathan@GrayLineAsheville.com; 828-251-8687; www.GrayLineAsheville.com

seeking a rewarding JoB? Mountain Xpress employment Classifieds are effective at pairing local employers with qualified candidates. Visit our desktop or mobile site at mountainx.com/classifieds to browse additional online-only job listings OR post a personalized “Jobs Wanted” ad for extra exposure during your search. Check our jobs page often, and be the first to apply! mountainx.com/classifieds

adMinistrative/ office adMin/hr assistant Software company seeking Admin/ HR assistant, fulltime position in our downtown Asheville office. $12-14/hour depending on experience. Full job description at www.gEHRiMed.com/ careers/ No calls; submit resume and cover letter to jobs@gpm. md pa eXecutive assistant Admin assistant position available at established Construction management/ real estate development firm. Flexible 30 hour Mon - Fri work week. An excellent opportunity for advancement for the right person. Please send your resume to gchris717@ gmail.com

sales/ Marketing licensed p&c insurance agent Busy State Farm agency. Sales and heavy service with P&C focus. Job stablity and benefits. Average income $30,000$40,000. Salary plus bonus. Must have P&C License. 100% Medical/Dental. Resume to: diane. bauknight.cgq5@statefarm.com

Medical/ health care asheville healthcare center Available positions: cna, all shifts, part-time and casual payroll, entry level. Fulltime. dietary, full and part-time, for an aide and a cook. Please apply: www.ashevillehealthrehab.com dental hygienist Parttime, 2-3 days/week. Must be thorough but gentle. Call 828.712.8290 or email maczoo@ hotmail.com

eXcellent opportunity for eXperienced direct support associates RHA is seeking staff for group homes in Hendersonville and Brevard. Full-time and part-time available. Requirements: Valid DL, HS Diploma/GED, drug / background screening. At least 2

years working with IDD and Autism preferred. rleveskis@ rhanet.org www.rhahealthservices.org hiring caregivers Hiring in-home care for seniors! Friday/Saturday/Sunday. Days or Overnights - 12-hour shiftscompetitive pay and shift differential (work 36 hours, paid for 40 hours). Apply to Mountain Home Care: 828-684-6444.

huMan services

AVAILABLE POSITIONS • Meridian Behavioral health Jackson and Macon counties Multiple positions open for peer support specialists working within a number of recovery oriented programs within our agency. Being a Peer Support Specialist provides an opportunity for individuals to transform their own personal lived experience with mental health and/or addiction challenges into a tool for inspiring hope for recovery in others. Applicants must demonstrate maturity in their own recovery process, have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and have moderate computer skills. For further information, contact hr.department@meridianbhs. org. clinician Recovery Education Center Jackson/Macon counties Seeking passionate, values-driven and dynamic professionals to join our Jackson and Macon County Recovery Education Centers. This program reflects a unique design which integrates educational, clinical and peer support components in a center-based milieu. To be considered, an applicant should be familiar with the recovery paradigm of mental health and substance abuse services. A Master’s degree and license eligibility are also required. For more information, contact hr.department@meridianbhs.org clinician pace program Jackson/Macon counties Meridian’s PACE program provides structured and scheduled for activities for adults age 18 and older with a diagnosis of Mental Health and Substance Use disorders. The clinician will be providing clinical support to the team. A Master’s degree and license eligibility are required. For more information, contact hr.department@meridianbhs.org Mecklenburg county licensed clinician Seeking licensed-eligible Clinician to join an exciting partnership of agencies to create an epicenter for MH/SA recovery in Mecklenburg County. Peer Support Specialists and clinical staff will work collaboratively to offer recovery oriented assessment, individual and group support, skill building, education, and system navigation both in the office and the community. • For more information contact hr.department@ meridianbhs.org For further information and to complete an application, visit our website: www.meridianbhs.org

joBs DIRECT CARE STAFF • TEAM Manager Job/Position Overview: Supervises and acts as role model for all residents in an all girls residential treatment center. Ensures the provision of a physically and emotionally safe environment for all residents enrolled in the program, to adhere to all programmatics, schedules, policies and procedures outlined in employee handbook and Solstice RTC Policy and Procedure manual. Oversees the residential programmatics, schedule, training and supervision of direct care staff. Includes on call duties. • Qualifications: Experience and Education College training in Mental Health preferred; Bachelors degree required. 2+ years working with youth. 1+ years RTC work experience. At least 25 years of age. CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification. Benefits are offered to full-time employees and include health, dental, vision and life insurance as well as holiday pay, vacation and sick leave. • Please send a resume and cover letter to humanresources@ashevilleacademy.com Solstice East is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No phone calls please. director of school age prograMs Supervisor, Fulltime, Exempt YWCA of Asheville and WNC. Asheville, NC. Want to be part of a dynamic leadership team? Thank you for your interest in the Director of School Age Programs position. The YWCA of Asheville is dedicated to the empowerment of women and to eliminating racism. We strive to be a leader in the community of Western North Carolina, fully representing its diversity and working for peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people. Each staff member makes the difference. If you share our commitment and passion, and think you would be a great fit for the Director of School Age Programs position, please submit an application today. Thank you for your interest in joining our team at the YWCA of Asheville! position summary: The Director of School Age Programs is a member of the senior leadership team of the YWCA and is responsible for providing quality care for children in kindergarten through sixth grade outside of school hours. The Director of School Age Programs works closely with a racially, culturally, and economically diverse group of participants and colleagues. The position is responsible for creating and sustaining a community of learning, and creativity that ensures that children grow academically, socially, physically, and emotionally in a safe, educational, and fun environment. • The ideal candidate will have skills and/or successful experience in the following: • Develops, coordinates, and oversees implementation of an interactive hands-on curriculum. The position provides age appropriate experiences consistent

with the mission and values of the YWCA. • Creates and implements program plans and activities that support the learning of life and social skills, educational achievement, nutrition, and physical activity for children from kindergarten through sixth grade after school and during the summer. • Establishes and sustains relationships with families, community organizations, and schools to identify areas of need for individual children. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the YWCA’s policies. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, mentoring, training and appropriate certifications for staff. Regularly observes staff interactions with children and continually improves their quality of program implementation. • Participates in the development of the program budget. Manages the budget to achieve income, revenue, and expense goals. • Monitors state regulations and funding to ensure all requirements are met for attendance, accurate participation records are maintained, sanitation guidelines are followed, and funding is sustained. education and experience: Masters in Social Worker preferred or closely related field or 10 years of experience working with youth or families. Minimum 400 hours of verifiable experience working with school age children in a licensed facility. Must have or be able to complete the North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credentials within 6 months of hire. Please visit our website www. ywcaofasheville.org WHO WE ARE> Job Openings prior to our application deadline of January 31, 2015 for information on the full position description and application instructions. elder cluB prograM assistant at Jewish faMily services of wnc Facilitate a non-medical, structured social group program for older adults. Must have work experience assisting elders, some with dementia and physical challenges, in a group setting. • Requires: strong organization and communication skills, activity planning, volunteer management. • Preferred: Bachelor’s degree; knowledge of Jewish culture. 12 hours/ week: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am-3pm, plus planning time; Wednesdays may be added in the future. • Submit resume by 12/30/2014 to: info@jfswnc. org • No phone calls please! To view the full job description, go to www.jfswnc.org

parents needed Do you believe that all youth deserve the opportunity to experience what it feels like to belong, to be happy and to look forward to the future? Are you willing to open your heart and your home to a child or adolescent who

needs a fresh start? if so ... Become a treatment partner in an innovative and highly successful program for youth with behavioral issues. who is eligible? Anyone who is 21 years old or older, who is financially stable, owns or rents their own home, is willing to engage in shared parenting, and able to be flexible and provide for the unique needs and challenges of children and adolescents who are experiencing substance abuse and/or mental health issues. • Please Call: (828) 339-1518. psycho-social rehaBilitation position Hiring fulltime individual passionate about recovery and mentoring relationships. Bachelor degree required, Human Service Field preferred. Must have driver's license and a 5 year clean DMV record. More info: www.thrive4health.org qualified Mental health professional Now hiring for Rutherford and Gaston Counties Qualified Mental Health Professional. Monarch is committed to supporting, educating and empowering people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and substance use challenges to choose and achieve what is important to them. We are seeking a dedicated and reliable Qualified Mental Health Professional to provide support for adults with mental illness and to develop, monitor and implement of person centered plans and program development to ensure that agency standards and best practices are met. Requirements Desired candidates must have solid understanding of best person-centered practices, have the ability to work closely with families, and work well in a changing environment. Candidates will be QMHP qualified with adults as outlined in NC DHHS staff definition 10A NCAC 27G .0104. • Benefits: Competitive salary, major medical insurance/dental coverage, life insurance, PTO, 401(K) Retirement Plan. • Apply online at www.MonarchNC.org • Fax resume’s to 866-404-5622. An Equal Opportunity Employer. rn nurses – RN Help make your community a better place. Mountain Area Recovery Center is growing and we are currently seeking an RN to work part-time as a medicating nurse at the Asheville facility. Requirements are early morning hours-Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Candidate must be dependable. Criminal background check required for all final candidates. EOE. Please e-mail resume to rhonda.ingle@marc-otp.com or fax to 828.252.9512, ATTN: RHONDA INGLE.

NC is seeking an Executive Director to represent its mission through leadership of the organization in administrative, business, and educational processes. For more details, email employment@mountainsunschool.org or visit mountainsunschool.org/employmentopportunities

Business opportunities $1,000 weekly!! Mailing Brochures From home. Helping home workers since 2001. Genuine opportunity. No experience required. Start Immediately www.mailingmembers.com (AAN CAN)

career training airBrush Makeup artist course For: Ads. TV. Film. Fashion. 35% Off Tuition Special $1990 - Train & Build Portfolio . One Week Course. Details at: AwardMakeupSchool.com 818-980-2119 (AAN CAN) airline careers Begin here Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Housing and Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800725-1563 (AAN CAN)

coMputer/ technical

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retail weBsite Maintenance Need a person who is creative and artistic. Need to be skilled in using Word Press and Photoshop. Also have knowledge of photography. Opening for at least 10 hours a week. Email resume to becky@musiciansworkshop.com.

services audio/video dish tv Starting at $19.99/ month (for 12 months) Save! Regular Price $32.99. Call today and ask about Free same day Installation! Call now! 888-992-1957 (AAN CAN).

caregivers

charter coMMunications hiring BroadBand installers Charter Communications, one of the nation’s largest Broadband service providers, is seeking Broadband Installers for their Asheville, NC area. The essential functions of this position are contributing to the company vision of being the industry leader in customer service through quality, commitment, courtesy and teamwork. This person will be responsible for performing basic installations, disconnects and service changes for residential and business customers for cable television, phone, and internet. This is an entry level position. Must have HS Diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license. Interested applicants must complete the online application at ww.charter. com/careers. Charter offers competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package.**Females and Minorities encouraged to apply**

COMPANION • CAREGIVER • LIVE-IN Alzheimer's experienced. • Heart failure and bed sore care. • Hospice reference letter. • Nonsmoker, with cat, seeks live-in position. • References. • Arnold, (828) 273-2922.

transportation Best Medical transportation services David’s Transportation Services for elderly and physically disabled, non emergency transportation anywhere in the USA. Certified Nursing Assistant and Spanish translator available. For more information please contact 828-2150715 or 828-505-1394. www. cesarfamilyservices.com

hoMe iMproveMent handy Man HIRE A HUSBAND • handyMan services Since 1993. Multiple skill sets. Reliable, trustworthy, quality results. $1 million liability insurance. References and estimates available. Stephen Houpis, (828) 280-2254.

eXecutive director Mountain sun coMMunity school Mountain Sun Community School in Brevard,

Mac repair technician Local company seeking Mac repair technician. Must be fluent with all supported Apple platforms, iCloud, laptop/desktop hardware and diagnostic/troubleshooting

mountainx.com

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

teaching/ education

announceMents

classes & workshops classes & workshops

help yourself while helping others By donating plasma! You can earn $220/month with valid state ID, proof of address, and SS card. Located at 85 Tunnel Road. Call (828) 2529967. pregnant? thinking of adoption? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. Living Expenses Paid. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/ Indiana (AAN CAN)

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legal notices

You know about saving money here. How about earning big opportunity? The ALDI philosophy is about doing things differently and being smart. And

being smart with money means paying great people great wages, Our beneﬁts are among the best too. The ALDI difference is about being more, expecting more and delivering more.

If you’re ready for more, pick up an application from the store manager or visit aldistorejobs.com for more info. Store Associates - $10.00/hour (30-40 hrs/wk) Requirements:

Hiring Event:

Time: 8am - 2pm and 3pm - 6pm

Be a team player Be able to lift 45 lbs

Date: Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Must have a ﬂexible schedule Have a High School diploma or G.E.D Be able to work in a fast-paced environment Must pass a drug test as well as background check

Excellent customer service skills ALDI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No Calls Please.

Where: Aldi, Inc.

330 Airport Rd. Arden, NC 28732

Hiring for Hendersonville, East Asheville and Arden area locations

GetMoreBeMore

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014

mountainx.com

attention christopher legere SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1 TO CHRISTOPHER LEGERE, WHOSE PLACE OF RESIDENCE IS UNKNOWN, AND THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, A PETITION HAVING BEEN DULY FILED BY KEITH LEGERE, WHO IS DOMICILED AT 133 MAPLE AVENUE, SCOTIA NEW YORK 12032, YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE BEFORE THE SURROGATE’S COURT, SCHENECTADY COUNTY, AT THE COURT HOUSE, 612 STATE STREET, SCHENECTADY NEW YORK ON JANUARY 7, 2015, AT TEN O’CLOCK IN THE FORENOON OF THAT DAY, WHY A DECREE SHOULD NOT BE MADE IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA ANN LEGERE LATELY DOMICILED AT 133 MAPLE AVENUE, GLENVILLE NY 12302 9N THE COUNTY OF SCHENECTADY ADMITTING TO PROBATE A WILL DATED JULY 13, 2006, DECEASED RELATING TO REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY, AND DIRECTING THAT LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION C.T.A. BE ISSUED TO KEITH LEGERE DATED AND ATTESTED AND SEALED, NOVEMBER 6, 2014. THE HONORABLE VINCENT VERSACI, SURROGATE, COUNTY OF SCHENECTADY ATTY: DEMOSTENE ROMANUCCI, (518) 783-5611. P.O. BOX 1035, LATHAM, NY 12110. THIS CITATION IS SERVED UPON YOU AS REQUIRED BY LAW. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR IN PERSON. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY APPEAR FOR YOU. IF YOU DO NOT APPEAR IS WILL BE ASSUMED YOU DO NOT OBJECT TO THE RELIEF REQUESTED.

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Mind, Body, spirit Bodywork

#1 affordaBle coMMunity conscious Massage and essential oil clinic 3 locations: 1224 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville, 505-7088, 959 Merrimon Ave, Suite 101, 785-1385 and 2021 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, 697-0103. • $33/hour. • Integrated Therapeutic Massage: Deep Tissue, Swedish, Trigger Point, Reflexology. Energy, Pure Therapeutic Essential Oils. 30 therapists. Call now! www.thecosmicgroove. com SHOJI SPA & LODGE • 7 days a week Looking for the best therapist in town--or a cheap massage? Soak in your outdoor hot tub; melt in our sauna; then get the massage of your life! 26 massage therapists. 2990999. www.shojiretreats. com

retreats

new years resolution 5 day yoga detoX & Juice cleanse Jan 14 – 18, 2015 Prama Wellness Center 828 649 9911 www. pramawellnesscenter.org 3 days of fasting, delicious meals, workshops, health consultations, group support, daily yoga and meditation knowledgeable supportive staff.

spiritual call nina the auracle: 253-7472 "I have used Nina's insight for more than 15 years. She offers clarity and grounding in my artistic pursuits and life experience." Chris Bouchan, Artist, Tryon.

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thE nEw yoRk timEs cRosswoRD puzzLE

ACROSS 1 Now or never: Abbr. 4 Sounds from test cheaters, maybe 9 Bris officiant 14 Moo goo ___ pan 15 Erect 16 Have ___ to pick 17 Nanette’s nana 19 Parachute parts 20 Clergyman who wrote “What is originality? Undetected plagiarism” 21 “Bonne ___!” 23 Those, to José 24 Geographical name that’s another geographical name backward 25 One of two N.T. books 26 Leave in the lurch 28 German town 30 World headquarters of LG Electronics 32 Civil War inits. 33 Wee bit 35 Numerical prefix 36 ___ Lingus 37 & 40 Repeat offender? … or something found, literally, in four rows in this puzzle

42 ___ Paulo 43 Like one for the ages 45 Racket 46 Airport approximation,

4 Mail order abbr. 5 Poison ___ 6 They tend to be fast

edited by Will Shortz 1

typists for short 7 Flush 47 Shade of brown 8 Graf ___ (ill-fated 49 Mexican cigar brand German cruiser) 53 Less likely to be 9 Buddy G-rated 10 Small section of an 55 Car starter? orchestra 57 Vitamin amts. 11 Transportation in 58 Uptight, informally Disneyland’s Main 59 “His/her” alternative Street, U.S.A. 61 Bone near the 12 Backed funny bone 13 Cigarette ad claim 62 Georges who wrote “Life: A User’s Manual” 18 Must 22 Drew out 64 Making a father of 27 Draw out 66 Serengeti scavenger 29 Start to a baseball 67 Name hollered in song the “Flintstones” theme song 31 “The Star-Spangled Banner” preposition 68 See 69-Across 34 Send away for good 69 Participated in a 68-Across 37 React, just barely 70 True 38 Baseball Hall-of71 Ones who are so last Famer mistakenly listyear?: Abbr. ed in “The Chanukah Song” as a Jew DOWN 39 Actor Cage, informally 1 Texas A&M team 41 Minimal baseball lead 2 “Rats!” 42 High-ranking angels 3 Product touted by 44 “Ta-ta!” Hugh Hefner

No.1112 5

29 33

38 43

32 36

40 44

41 45

35 39

59 63

49 56

50 57

puzzle by DANIel lANDMAN

48 With bitterness 50 Does improv 51 Way 52 Plains Indians

54 Chaiken who co-cre- 60 Laugh uproariously

ated “The L Word”

56 Slangy commercial

suffix

63 No great catch 65 Confident finish?

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUzzLE R A D O N

E L O P E

E L W E S

L E A N T O

S I A M

S K I M

A D D S

B O U T

N O I R S M M S C O D N N E A

B R V I A H D I S C B L A O A T K O A M M M T I R C S A O O D O I K O

E R T E D D Y H O I A L D I O E R S E R I M M M I N

M I D R I B H E M

P O O D O N T E R T T O

A S T S N U I T I D D Y S E X S L A D A A T O M B O O M P R O M O R A L R I M O O D O O S E C T E R O S

Paul Caron

Furniture Magician • Cabinet Refacing • Furniture Repair • Seat Caning • Antique Restoration

Reach wellness enthusiasts in our Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 special issues. advertise@mountainx.com • 828-251-1333 mountainx.com

• Custom Furniture & Cabinetry (828) 669-4625

• Black Mountain

DEcEmBER 17 - DEcEmBER 23, 2014