Mountain Xpress, March 17 2010

OUR 16TH YEAR OF WEEKLY INDEPENDENT NEWS, ARTS, & EVENTS FOR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA VOL. 16 NO. 34 March 17 - March 23, 2010

Figures of the past

BLACK MOUNTAIN’S HISTORIC CEMETERIES p. 14

POWER OF THE PAPER TRAIL p. 17

THE RUNAWAY CIRCUS RULES p. 52

SCOTLAND’S BATTLEFIELD BAND p. 53

March 30th, 6-8pm RSVP

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MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Dear Amazing Savi

ngs customers, We are proud to an nounce our third A mazing Savings location in North Carolina--ri ght in downtown Asheville ! The Downtown M arket is the new home for us at 45 South French B road Avenue, with over 6,000 sq uare feet of the sam e offerings you’ve come to love : organic, conventi onal and gourmet groceries, fresh meats and W alnut Creek cheeses, frozen prod ucts, an extensive he alth and beauty selection, or ganic and conventi onal produce, all-new bulk items, and household supp lies – all still 30-50% off standard grocery pr ices. Please join us on March 2 7th for our Grand Opening celebration and chec k out our brand ne w look! As always, we are loca lly family-owned an d operated, and we thank you fo r shopping local fo r your grocery needs. We’re excite d to be the only groc er downtown, and we do hope you’ ll shop here first.

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IS HIRING A JOURNALIST Are you connected to the WNC community?

Do you have a passion for local news?

Can you see the big picture and pay attention to the details, too?

Xpress is looking for a reporter with editing skills. Ideally, you’ll have multimedia, social-media and Web experience.

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news

17 The power of the paper trail Local activists who’ve used public records to hold government’s feet to the fire

Award-Winning Service Mountain Xpress “Best of 2009”

21 Asheville city council City Hall needs repairs, city coffers

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Author at Accent on Books Saturday, March 20 • 2 pm • FREE Accent on Books welcomes author and Civil Rights historian Dr. Katherine Charron who will talk about her new book and her writing process.

“Freedom’s Teacher” is a biography of Septima Clark, a civil rights leader who taught AfricanAmericans in the 1950s so they would be eligible to vote. This event is open to the public and light refreshments will be served. Accent on Books is located below SteinMart in Grace Plaza. For more information, call the bookstore or email info@accentonbooks.com artisan bookselling since 1983

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MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

features 5 7 10 11 24 27 28 30 32 37 39 41 42 44 46 48 58 59 65 70 71 77

56 defined by faith David Bazan at the Grey Eagle

Letters Cartoon: Molton Cartoon: brent brown Commentary The Buzz WNC news briefs The Biz WNC business news Outdoors Out and about in WNC the dirt Garden news in WNC Community Calendar FreeWill Astrology News of the Weird Conscious party Benefits edgy mama Parenting from the edge GREEN SCENE WNC eco-news Food The straight dish on local eats Small Bites Local food news smart bets What to do, who to see ClubLand cranky hanke Movie reviews Asheville Disclaimer Classifieds NY Times crossword

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letters Make way for longboard commuters I am writing in response to the March 10 Xpress cover story, “It’s a Grind.”

I fully support the idea of retooling the skateboard ordinance. I think there are a few issues at play here. One is the fact that some kids with skateboards tear stuff up. This unfortunately is going to make it a hard sell to get skateboarding seen as a viable means of transportation. I love the four-wheels-down idea. Let us skate as transportation in Asheville, but save the propertydestroying tricks for the skatepark. As is done in other progressive towns, ticket the tricksters and let the commuters ride.

The original intent of the law had to do with brakeless, free-coasting vehicles. When it was enacted, people were riding on metal wheels.

Equipment and riding styles have evolved so that all but the novice can stop in a reasonable distance. Am I saying skateboards have brakes now? No, but we can slow down and stop by foot braking, carving, sliding, drifting and sit braking (butt on the board, both feet on ground). Today’s wheels made for commuting are made of grippy polyurethane, which is much more controllable than metal on asphalt was.

There is a whole new breed of skateboard developed specifically as a viable means of transport. I am referring to the longboard. As opposed to today’s typical skateboard, which was engineered to do tricks at the skatepark or street, the longboard hearkens back to the original skateboard, the Californian sidewalk surfer of

the 1950s. The modern longboard skateboard is usually about a foot longer than a typical board, has much larger and softer wheels, turns easier and is much more enjoyable to ride on the street and at distance. People cross continents on them.

Google “Adam Colton” from Loaded Boards.

The world record for distance is 250 miles in 24 hours. You see many commuters on them in pedestrian- and bike-friendly towns like Portland and Seattle.

When I began to incorporate a skateboard with walking my dog a few years ago, I ended up becoming a longboarder. The ride was so much smoother, much more fun and safer. I am 43, and falling hurts more and longer than it used to, so I avoid it. I started to replace local car trips with longboard journeys. I thought I had really found a great way to be easy on the environment, stay fit and have a lot of fun while commuting. That is, until I realized what I was doing was illegal. I am going to look to the downtown skate shops as the gathering place to stage a political call to lighten up on skateboarding commuters.

— Sunny Keach Asheville

City Council should revise handling of P&Z appointments Concerning David Forbes’ March 3 article on the recent appointment of Holly Shriner to the city of Asheville’s Planning and Zoning Commission: Excuse my possible naiveté, but it seems to me that in our “advanced” age of

Send letters to: Letters to the Editor, Mountain Xpress, P.O. Box 144, Asheville, NC 28802 or by e-mail to letters@mountainx.com.

(Include name, address and phone number.)

xpress staff publisher & Editor: Jeff Fobes GENERAL MANAGER: Andy Sutcliffe senior editor: Peter Gregutt MANAGING editor: Jon Elliston A&E editor: Rebecca Sulock ASSOCIATE editor: Margaret Williams MULTimEDIA EDITOR: Jason Sandford Staff writers: David Forbes, Brian Postelle A&E REPORTER & Fashion editor: Alli Marshall editorial assistants: Hanna Rachel Raskin, Tracy Rose Staff photographer: Jonathan Welch Clubland editor & Writer: Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt contributing writers: Jonathan Barnard, Melanie McGee Bianchi, Ursula Gullow, Anne Fitten Glenn, Whitney Shroyer EDIToRIAL INTERN: Gabe Chess PHOTO INTERN: Halima Flynt Production & Design ManaGeR: Andrew Findley Advertising Production manager: Kathy Wadham Production & Design: Carrie Lare, Nathanael Roney calendar editor & supplements coordinator: Mannie Dalton

Movie reviewer & Coordinator: Ken Hanke Food coordinator: Mackensy Lunsford Advertising director: James Fisher advertising manager: John Varner retail Representatives: Russ Keith, Rick Goldstein, Leigh Reynolds, Scott Sessoms WEB MARKETING MANAGER: Marissa Williams Classified Representatives: Arenda Manning, Tim Navaille Information Technologies Manager: Stefan Colosimo webmaster: Jason Shope web DEVELOPER: Patrick Conant Office manager & bookkeeper: Patty Levesque special projects: Sammy Cox ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER: Lisa Watters ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT: Arenda Manning, distribution manager: Sammy Cox Assistant distribution manager: Jeff Tallman DIStribution: Mike Crawford, Ronnie Edwards, Ronald Harayda, Adrian Hipps, Joan Jordan, Russ Keith, Marsha McKay, Beth Molaro, Ryan Seymour, Dane Smith, Ed Wharton, Thomas Young

UNFORGETTABLE

Correction

Spa & Lodge

A column in the March 10 issue gave an incorrect date for the {Re}Happening: A Feast for the Senses event on the grounds of the former Black Mountain College at Camp Rockmont. The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, March 20, and will feature dinner, music, performance art, dance and much more. For more details, visit www.blackmountaincollege.org. management, City Council would use a rubric or something similar to guide its decision-making about appointments to boards and commissions.

Does it?

Each candidate would be asked the same questions (which are ranked in importance to the performance of the job), the answers would be ranked in value/quality according to the stated qualifications for the appointment, and the scores would be tallied — perhaps including some room for subjective observations of each Council member.... The person(s) with the most points would get the appointment.

Certainly, one of the basic questions that should be asked would be, “Do you have now or could you possibly have any conflicts of interest that might influence your decision-making, and if so, what would these be?” How could Esther Manheimer or any other Council member not have known that Shriner’s husband owns a major piece of property that he is seeking to develop?

Additionally, Manheimer commented that appointing a “stay at home” mom would offer a different perspective to the commission because the board has only one woman on it. Is she saying that this was an “affirmative action” appointment? My understanding of affirmative action is that when there are two candidates for one position who have similar qualifications, the person who is from an historically underrepresented segment of society is given the appointment. Can Manheimer show us that this is the case here?

I think Council needs to do some work in

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End our wars to achieve real security A guest commentary I submitted (see http:// vfpchapter099wnc.blogspot.com/) to the Mountain Xpress in response to the March 3 article, “Asheville-based National Guard Unit Heads to Iraq,” was rejected because it wasn’t about a local issue. The editors, however, graciously suggested I write a letter.

We keep sending young people off to war. We do this because our leaders tell us this is necessary for our security. Leaders say, “war”; young folks go off. No questions.

We even ritualize it. We have ceremonies, such as the one reported by the Xpress, where we say goodbye to loved ones and send them off to war.

Evidence of the ritual nature of this event is that it took place at a Christian church. (I personally have a difficult time reconciling Jesus’ teachings with sending troops off to war, but so it goes.)

The article told of the hardships our local folks will endure as family members go overseas to a war zone. Are these noble sacrifices that our friends and neighbors are making worth it? Are Americans any safer now?

Many experts think not. They claim that we are viewed as aggressors and that our actions, especially the killing and wounding of civilians (“collateral damage”) are the best recruiting tool a terrorist could hope for. Further, polls indicate that most Americans think we made a mistake to go into Iraq in the first place and that most Americans oppose the war in Afghanistan.

Then consider the costs. Since 2001, Americans have spent almost a trillion dollars ($1,000,000,000) in Iraq and Afghanistan. This works out to about $12,000 for a family of four. Our 11th Congressional District has spent $1.9 billion — and Heath Shuler, our fiscally conservative representative, keeps voting to fund the wars.

Consider the human costs. The separation of loved ones destined for war zones is bad enough.

But our soldiers often return with debilitating physical and psychological injuries including post traumatic stress disorder, injuries that will affect the quality of the rest of their lives. And some don’t return at all.

Many local folks believe that we can best serve the cause of national security and honor our dedicated National Guard personnel by ending the war; that we would be much more secure if that $1.9 billion went to fund health care, new jobs and alternative energy; and that our National Guard folks should be home with their families ready to respond to local emergencies and natural disasters when citizens are endangered.

The WNC chapter of Veterans For Peace (and its friends) have been holding a weekly peace vigil at Pack Square since 2003. Thousands of motorists have driven past, honking for peace.

At noon on Saturday, March 20, at Pritchard Park, Peacetown (a project of VFP 099 that brings nonveterans together to work for peace) will hold a different kind of ceremony to commemorate the seventh anniversary of the invasion of Iraq: a call for peace.

Wars will end when we quit sending people to war.

— Kim Carlyle VFP Chapter 099 president Barnardsville

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A rhetorical question on war How many earthquakes will it take to help end the “war Olympics” around the world?

— DeWayne Barton Asheville

We don’t need the GOP to fix what they’ve broken According to a recent newspaper ad, the Buncombe County Republican Party has announced precinct meetings in March and its county convention on March 27. The ad states:

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“Tired of special interests controlling Washington and Raleigh? Disappointed in politicians who say one thing and do another? Worried that our government might never get back on track? We need YOU to help fix it.”

Say what? The Republican Party had control of the presidency and Congress for eight years, and see where that led us — into the toilet! You must be joking if you think this country wants another repeat of the Bush/Cheney/GOP/Congressional disaster!

— Jerry Edwards Asheville

Don’t buy Republicans lies Listen up, people. The Republicans will use every untruth and dirty trick they can to get back in power, so that they can destroy the middle and lower classes. They only care about the rich and being in power. That should be clear now.

They don’t care about “we the people.” They destroyed my retirement and I will despise them for as long as I live. Do not believe their lies.

— Lloyd Kay Asheville

Counting on Council to do the right thing with appointments The citizens of Asheville count on City Council, and the people they appoint to boards and commissions, to serve the public interest with fairness and objectivity. While Council members are vetted through the grueling electoral process, members of commissions like Planning and Zoning go through a relatively light screening and merely

need four votes to land a seat on a very powerful government body.

This process broke down last month, and Council appointed a person to Planning and Zoning who was later found to have a major conflict of interest that she did not disclose. This conflict involves her husband being a principle investor in the Deal Buick site, a development in north Asheville, that has been and will likely again be a very contentious issue. The Planning and Zoning Commission will play a major role in the zoning and/or review of any future development on that site, as it has in the past.

Unfortunately, this applicant failed to disclose this past or current involvement to Council, either in her application or during the interviews.

Even assuming that this was an innocent mistake, it still represents a disturbing turn from the premise that people who have major financial interests hinging on government approvals simply shouldn’t be on the very government bodies that do the approving. Planning and Zoning, especially, will likely gain even more authority in development decisions as the Downtown Master Plan is implemented later this year.

Given the history of controversial development issues that have divided Asheville, one would hope that City Council would strive to create an atmosphere of trust and accountability on this very important Commission.

City Council can and should revisit this appointment before it takes effect in early April.

— Barry Summers Asheville

Faith

a matter of Fellowship Asheville Johnathan north, Pastor johnathan@fellowshipasheville.com Fellowship Asheville is a Gospel-centered church. What does that mean? Basically, that we believe that through Jesus the whole world is being redeemed. N.T. Wright said, “In the unique life, death, and resurrection of Jesus the whole cosmos had turned a corner from darkness to light.”

The Gospel meets us at the core of who we are. It invites us to embrace Jesus and his work instead of our own as the sole foundation of our relationship with God. In short, the Gospel confronts both those attempting to be religious and those attempting to be irreligious. The Gospel invites us to find our identity in the life and work of Jesus.

The Gospel fuels a community and a mission greater than ourselves. We would love for you to join us and see what we are up to!

To find out more, visit www.fellowshipasheville.com

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commentary

Open here

Perdue fulfills promises of transparent state government

by David Woronoff Editor’s note: March 15 to 20 marks this year’s Sunshine Week, an annual celebration of freedom of public information. In this commentary, N.C. Press Association President David Woronoff gives an assessment of our governor’s stances on official openness.

The last time the North Carolina Press Association saw Gov. Beverly Perdue in person, she was a candidate who attended our 2008 summer convention in Asheville. Despite our paltry numbers on that sunny Friday, Perdue stood before us and pledged to make openness the hallmark of her administration.

Her predecessor, Mike Easley, had taken government secrecy to new lows. And since Perdue belonged to the same party and moved in the same

board president next year.

We suggested to the governor that the nearly constant refrain of abuses of power by North Carolina politicians over the past several years has given her an opportunity to create her legacy as the “open-government governor.” Perdue is on her way to assuming that title, and she seemed to cotton to it. She agreed that the best way to restore the public’s trust in its elected officials is by injecting a lot of transparency into the operation.

She particularly liked our Open Government Guide and Attorney General Roy Cooper’s admonition to public employees that records and documents are presumed available for the public’s inspection.

It was Perdue who vetoed House Bill 104, a particularly nasty piece of legislation that was designed to keep legislators’ work and their cor-

Perdue vetoed House Bill 104, a particularly nasty piece of legislation designed to keep legislators’ work and their correspondence related to it secret until the bill is filed. political circles, many in the audience viewed that promise with suspicion, fearing that her pledge was designed merely to curry favor with us, not to bring a new level of transparency to state-government operations.

We were wrong. Perdue really has taken up the cause of open government. For the first time in nearly a decade, our association had the opportunity to discuss these matters with a North Carolina governor during a wide-ranging discussion in her office in the historic state Capitol recently.

Joining me in talking with Perdue about a host of open-government issues were Executive Director Beth Grace, First Amendment Counsel John Bussian and Fayetteville Observer Publisher Charles Broadwell, who will serve as our organization’s

resides in the Senate, which has passed legislation in previous sessions. The governor liked the bill and said she would sign it if it comes to her desk.

Next on our agenda was an issue we have battled for a couple of years now: keeping legal notices in print. On this matter, Perdue didn’t hesitate. She wanted those public notices where people could see them and learn what their government was doing. She was unequivocal about wanting legal notices to remain in the printed editions of newspapers.

In the end, I found the governor to be approachable and receptive to our causes.

She sent each of us a handwritten note thanking us for our time and dedication to our craft. That was good politics on her part, but I felt she was sincere in her comments about the value and importance of a vibrant North Carolina newspaper industry.

Given where we’ve been for the last eight years, we’ve come a long way. X David Woronoff is publisher of The Pilot newspaper in Southern Pines, N.C., and current president of the North Carolina Press Association.

respondence related to it secret until the bill was filed. Without our even asking, Perdue dusted off her veto stamp and sent that legislation, which she believed was poor public policy, back to the House. We took the opportunity to thank the governor and congratulate her for keeping her campaign promises.

We also briefed her on our top legislative initiative, the North Carolina Open Government Act, which would provide for the automatic recovery of attorneys’ fees in open-government legal disputes. Currently, judges are given discretion and rarely choose to award legal fees. Given these challenging economic times, the financial aspect of public-record fights cannot be underestimated.

This bill has already passed the House and now

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commentary

Embrace the future

Google Fiber could transform life in Asheville “Obviously, everyone wants to be successful, but I want to be looked back on as being very innovative, very trusted and ethical, and ultimately making a big difference in the world.”

— Google co-founder Sergey Brin In a few short weeks, some city in America will be chosen as a test site for the fastest Internet service in the nation. Internet supergiant Google plans to spend $500 million to create fiber-optic infrastructure capable of delivering data at more than 1 gigabit per second— more than 100 times faster than what most of us have access to today. Asheville is in the running for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The clamor for this fiber network has some cities going to great lengths to become what Google wants. Our strategy here in Asheville is different. We know we’re an innovative, unique, vibrant community that’s ready to utilize 1 Gbps Internet. We don’t need to change who we are.

We just need to communicate who we are and how we will be a fantastic test market for their new network.

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City Hall, Buncombe County and the Economic Development Coalition are preparing our municipal application, telling Google the nuts and bolts of our economy, demographics, topography, regulations, etc. The deadline for applications is Friday, March 26.

But the other half of the application process needs you. Google is asking individuals and local groups to nominate their communities for this service. A link to the application is available at googleavl.com, and we need every one of you to take seven minutes and complete it.

Aside from some questions about your current Internet service, Google wants to know why they should come to where you live. They want to know how your life will be different if they locate their fiber network here.

We don’t need to change who we are. We just need to communicate who we are.

This technological leap will be the innovation equivalent of the railroad’s coming to Asheville in the late 19th century.

With 1 Gbps fiber, Asheville can become a global leader in the things we already do well. Our climate-science and data-visualization sectors would be able to crunch the most complicated data in short order, making this an international hub for climate research.

Mission Hospital’s Cancer Center and cardiac unit could collaborate with other medical professionals in the region and around the world in ways no one could have imagined just a few years ago.

Our academic institutions, from Hall Fletcher Elementary School to A-B Tech, could dramatically rethink education. Small tech

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businesses all over Asheville could suddenly have an enormous advantage over their competitors. Our artists and musicians could undertake never-before-imagined international collaborations. Biotech leaders at the Bent Creek Institute could partner with universities involved in the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to research the new species they’re discovering every day.

People who know how to carve out a niche for themselves thrive here. This has helped create a dynamic, inventive culture unmatched by any city of our size in the nation.

Our Blue Ridge Mountains are absolutely breathtaking. We’re told that this is one of the happiest places on earth. Every other week, we make yet another “Top Ten Places to”… list.

We are a city that cares. We have the highest number of nonprofits per capita in the nation.

We come together week after week to support charitable causes. We could make more money somewhere else, but we choose to live in Asheville because of our quality of life here.

The people of Asheville want to make the world a better place, and the Google fiberoptic network will help us do that.

Come out to the Asheville town-hall meeting Thursday, March 18, to learn more, offer your suggestions and demonstrate Asheville’s willingness to embrace the future that a 1 Gbps fiber-optic network will provide.

Thank you in advance for all your hard work. If we land Google fiber, we will have outshone hundreds of cities across America, and it will be because we let Google know who we are and what we can accomplish.

For more information, attend the March 18 town-hall meeting at the Civic Center, or visit googleavl.com. X Asheville City Council member Gordon Smith is helping head up the city’s push to land Google’s new fiber-optic network.

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mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 13

news A walk through time

Historic cemeteries offer glimpses into area’s past

by Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt On a recent bright-but-windy Sunday afternoon, local-history enthusiast Robert Goodson led about 20 people through two of the oldest cemeteries in Black Mountain. Sponsored by the Swannanoa Valley Museum, the tour of Tabernacle and Ingram cemeteries brought to life the pioneers who settled in the area after the Revolutionary War, painting a vivid picture of early 19th-century mountain culture.

A natural storyteller, Goodson — the co-author of North Fork of the Swannanoa River — is a descendant of the Colby/Stepp clan, one of the valley’s founding families. They were innkeepers and landowners, and the family home, built in 1831, still stands on Goodson’s property in Black Mountain.

“During the stagecoach days, this was a selfsupporting community with a church, a school, a justice of the peace, a gristmill where you could grind grain over by the river, and a general store,” said Goodson.

Dating back to 1837, the Tabernacle Cemetery rests on two-and-a-half acres of sloping land overlooking the Black and Swannanoa mountain ranges.

The original church — which was apparently very tall and poorly built, so that it swayed back and forth in strong winds — is no longer standing, but the lumber from it was incorporated in the present structure.

The original “meeting house” was a multipurpose building that, besides providing spiritual comfort, also served as a school during the warmer months and as a courthouse. Trial records show cases involving such charges as “illegal cohabita-

On hallowed ground: Pioneers who settled in the area after the Revolutionary War rest at Tabernacle (featured here) and Ingram Cemeteries, the two oldest graveyards in Black Mountain. photos by Jonathan Welch

tion, drinking ‘drams’ and dancing,” Goodson noted with a chuckle. Since the meeting house was such a vital gathering place, the grounds around it became the central burial site for the Black Mountain community through the mid-1920s.

In the atmospheric Tabernacle Cemetery, gray, mossy tombstones line the hillside, tilting eerily.

All told, there are 250 unmarked and 550 marked graves. Some gravestones, such as that of local homeopathic doctor Charles Cliff, are small and simple, their uneven, childlike lettering suggesting they were carved by untrained hands. But others stand proud, announcing such prominent figures as T.K. Brown, Black Mountain’s first mayor; Fletcher Fortune, the trustee of the Black Mountain Methodist Church; and postmistress Martha Drucilla.

Forgotten faces

Portrait of the past: “During the stagecoach days, this was a self-supporting community,” said tour guide Robert Goodson, describing mountain culture in Swannanoa during the early 19th century.

14 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

“Remember,” said Goodson as we wandered through the site, “this little settlement was [established] before Black Mountain was even a town — that didn’t happen until 1880, when the railroad came through — and that had a big influence on these communities, because people began to hustle and move to where they could see the train or get transportation and goods.”

It’s a familiar story, repeated in rural areas nationwide, as the railroad siphoned off settlers from their small, isolated, self-sustaining communities toward bigger places.

Far removed from Tabernacle’s spacious setting, Ingram Cemetery rests on a half-acre plot in a residential cul-de-sac in Black Mountain, surrounded by modern homes. The oldest unmarked grave, which dates back to 1820, sits just a few feet away from a family’s backyard, with its lawn chairs and charcoal grill. The unsettling contrast tells of how dramatically the world has changed.

Established by the Irish-born Bobby Ingram, this was a private burial ground for family and friends.

More local cemeteries

Interested in visiting other historic cemeteries? The Old Buncombe County Genealogical Society recently published a 2010 Calendar of Cemeteries. Each month features photos of a different local site: March spotlights the Cedar Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Alexander, and April highlights Gashes Creek Baptist Church in Asheville.

To order a calendar, call the Genealogical Society at 253-1894, or visit the Web site (obcgs.com).

Young Bobby landed in Charleston, S.C., in 1785, port records show. From there, he made his way to Virginia and then, in 1799, to Western North Carolina. Under a state settlement grant, Ingram acquired 1,122 acres of land near Lake Eden.

Although there are more than 100 graves at Ingram, only 15 bear carved headstones; most are merely marked by small fieldstones. The lack of information about the people interred here lends the site a chilling sense of mystery.

A way of life

Few places can rival cemeteries in evoking so powerfully the unrelenting sweep of time — both

the individual, now-vanished lives and the ceaseless push of history leading up to the present moment. These early burial sites are particularly moving, stirring feelings of gratitude and reminding us that we, too, are helping shape the history of Western North Carolina.

“Whenever I walk through these old cemeteries, I get this same feeling that these are people who handed us a great deal,” noted Goodson. “I don’t think the present generation ever pays their due.

You and I and anyone else, we take advantage of so many things handed down to us — not necessarily a pot of money, but our way of life.”

Jill Jones, director of the Swannanoa Valley Museum, added: “We hope to preserve all of this rich history and pass it on to future generations.

When you have an afternoon like this, it gives you pause and time reflect on how deep the history is here. The valley was a gateway, a pathway west [for] a whole migration of early settlers: These graveyards [allow] us to interpret that story.”

The Swannanoa Valley Museum is at 223 W. State St. in Black Mountain. For information about upcoming hikes, strolls and guided tours of the town, call the museum at 669-9566, or check the Web site (swannanoavalleymuseum. org).

Visit www.mountainx.com to see a photo gallery and videos that accompany this story. X

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A cross section of history These historic cemeteries are especially meaningful to Goodson because so many of his own ancestors rest in them. He’s taken it upon himself to collect local stories in order to preserve and better understand his lineage and the valley’s unique history. Here’s a tale Goodson shared during the tour about an unmarked grave in Tabernacle: “In 1848, the church roll here at Tabernacle shows two slaves as being members. Their names were Burnett’s Rose (a female slave by the name of Rose belonging to the Burnett family), and the other one is Stepp’s Coleman.

As far as we know — and I’ve been told this by a person many years ago who should have known, because this Coleman was from her grandfather’s household — Coleman is buried down here. It’s not a marked grave, and probably the reason it’s unmarked is because there is no definite proof, but that’s what has always been handed down, and I tend to believe it. The tale ... is that [Coleman] came from the family of Jesse Stepp. ... Elisha Mitchell spent his last night alive at Jesse Stepp’s house up on the headwaters of the

North Fork River (Mitchell, on the way over from the Pensacola area around dark, slipped on moss and fell in Mitchell Falls and drowned). And this Coleman was in [Jesse’s] household.

“Now, Coleman died. Jesse Stepp and his wife remembers him, so they brought his body from right on the upper end of the headwaters of North Fork down to bury him [at Tabernacle]. So the legend (or whatever you want to call it) is that as they came down, they plucked a hemlock seedling beside the bank and planted it at Coleman’s grave.

“OK, so that tree now is g-o-n-e because of the ravages of weather — being struck by lighting [or] disease — it’s gone. But when it was taken down, I had someone do a cross section of that tree. That cross section is in the archives here at the church. Now, if you count the annual growth rings on that a tree — and I taught forestry — it coincides with this legend, going back to 1864. It all jibes out!

So that’s why I believe it to be true.”

— A.S-B.

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Moving pictures To some, it might seem a little creepy, but tombstone rubbing is a creative way to generate a striking piece of art while preserving the inscriptions on old gravestones. The rubbings can often reveal details that would be easy to overlook, exposing worn script that’s difficult to read, and highlighting the carved designs surrounding dates and names.

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own rubbing: • A lithographic crayon (this seemed to yield the best results in our experiments), rubbing wax or graphite (warning: this smears easily); • A soft brush; • Thin paper • Masking tape • Permission from the cemetery staff!

Make sure the stone is sturdy and not in danger of falling or crumbling under pressure, and be gentle! After brushing off the dust and taping the paper to the stone, rub gently with a lithographic crayon or wax and watch the shapes, patterns, names and dates unveil themselves.

Visit www.mountainx.com/gallery to view a collection of rubbings made at both Tabernacle and Ingram cemeteries.

There’s also a video of a rubbing being taken at the grave of T.K. Brown, Black Mountain’s first mayor, and a photo of the grave of “Sarah” (one of the few inscribed tombstones at Ingram).

— A.S-B.

16 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

news

X

sunshine week

The power of the paper trail

Local activists who’ve used public records to hold government’s feet to the fire

by Jon Elliston, David Forbes and Jason Sandford March 14 to 20 is this year’s Sunshine Week — an annual, nationwide celebration of the critical importance of government openness and freedom of information. Discovering and reporting the inner workings of government is part of Xpress’ mission, so it’s a week we take special note of.

Year round, we maintain the Xpress Files, an online archive of government documents on everything from local development rules to police reports to environmental-impact statements (see mountainx.com/xpressfiles). It’s something we typically highlight during Sunshine Week, but this year, we decided to turn the spotlight on local activists who pried open public records and used them to advance their respective causes. Here’s what they had to say.

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Who: Davyne Dial, former URTV producer and board member What was your mission, and how did you get involved? “While on the board, we had questions about the financial records; we wanted management to be a little more forthcoming. When I started asking questions, I was sent an e-mail by the board president [Jerry Young] telling me I was suspended.� Dial was later removed in a controversial vote by URTV members.

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Trying to change a channel: Davyne Dial, who pushed for the release of records she believed public-access station URTV is obligated to reveal. photos by Jonathan Welch unless otherwise noted

How did you get the public records? “We still haven’t gotten them. Through an attorney we requested the records, and their attorney said they didn’t have to provide the records. We pressed hard, lobbying City Council [which, along with Buncombe County, oversees the public-access channel].�

What obstacles did you encounter? “It was such a fight, and we encountered such hostility. I was suspended, then removed. We started to ask: Why this fight over some basic records? The fight still continues.�

Prying into Parkside: Elaine Lite, with People Advocating Real Conservancy, obtained Buncombe County records that helped critics mount an opposition to the proposed Parkside condominiums.

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact has it had? “We’re still waiting on the records, but in the city’s new management agreement, they clamped down with requirements that URTV be open about its meetings and records. I think society would be better if things were more open and transparent, and this was my way of pressing for that wall to open up just a crack.� After Dial and other activists pressed for greater openness, URTV also began allowing its meetings to be filmed, abolished a controversial secrecy oath for board members and started posting more meeting minutes online.

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Toxic crusaders: From left: Aaron Penland, Barry Durand and Tate MacQueen, part of a group of activists who have used public records to push for cleanup of the former CTS of Asheville site.

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“I suggest that they think carefully about what a whistle-blower can expect and about their next steps when they face opposition. You’re going to get a lot of hostility. But if you’re in the right, stay the course anyway. You have no good reason to back down.”

Contaminated wells

Who: Residents living near the contaminated former CTS of Asheville site What is your mission, and how did you get involved?

“To get the truth about contamination and protect our families and communities,” Tate MacQueen explains. He and his fellow activists got involved after seeing fliers distributed by Barry Durand detailing the contamination.

How did you get the public records?

Through Freedom of Information Act requests and “150- to 300-page reports that [the agencies] don’t expect you to read through,” says MacQueen.

“We’ve gotten everything we’ve needed, because they are legally obligated to give it to us.”

What obstacles did you encounter?

“First the county took action, but since then, they’ve dragged their feet about getting water to homes that might be in danger,” says fellow activist Aaron Penland. The activists also assert that officials have dragged their feet on serious cleanup while contamination spreads.

“There’s been a consistent attempt to find another source of contamination instead of cleaning up the one they already know about [beneath the CTS site],” adds MacQueen.

“This is a coverup; they want it to be,” asserts Penland. “Make no mistake about that.”

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact did it have?

18 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

“We got a 2002 report from the EPA stating that the site was an imminent threat,” says Penland.

“It was signed by Don Rigger, who’s now the EPA cleanup director for the Southeast.” The document, says Penland, contradicts EPA and state Department of Environment and Natural Resources claims that the site is not a health risk.

“We took that to the county, and they ran water to some of the homes in the area [whose wells might be in danger of contamination]. We had a congressional field hearing with Rep. Heath Shuler and other meetings with local, state and federal officials.” The activists have formed a nonprofit fund to help fund independent local testing.

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“You have to have the support of your community,” advises Penland. “If you don’t have those numbers, they’ll just brush you aside.”

The attention that the activists have drawn to the issue, says MacQueen, is “a testament when a community comes together, puts aside personality differences, puts aside ego and works to achieve a goal. In this case, we want this cleaned up; we want further impact stopped. It’s a lesson in the need to do due diligence on these reports, to question the methodology.”

The Parkside fight

Who: Asheville resident Elaine Lite, representing People Advocating Real Conservancy, a local grassroots group What was your mission, and how did you get involved?

“PARC joined with numerous other community activists and citizens to stop construction of Parkside Condominiums at Pack Square Park — a property that was viewed as public parkland.

We also demanded the return of a piece of park property that was ‘mistakenly’ sold by the county to developer Stewart Coleman. This issue struck a common chord with the community, since so many people were already frustrated by the loss

Slippery road behind.

Cop watchers: A leaked law-enforcement document helped Steve Rasmussen and Dixie Deerman work with other activists to hold the Asheville Police Department accountable. of green space witnessed in recent years across our mountains. The aged magnolia tree that sits on the property became a symbol of all the trees that had been lost to development.”

How did you get the public records?

“We made a formal request to the county manager’s office; we had to request them more than once. Copies were finally made, and we picked them up.”

What obstacles did you encounter?

“No serious obstacles, but they certainly didn’t respond to our first request — more like second or third. I’m sure they were hoping we’d forget about it and go away. We didn’t.”

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact has it had?

“Several folks spent time examining the records, including Barry Summers and Gordon Smith. Among other things, we found evidence that county staffers were pressuring the Pack Square Conservancy to support the Parkside proposal, including hints that county funding might be at risk if the conservancy didn’t play ball.

“Also, we found evidence that senior county staffers intended to see the magnolia parcel sold for development long before Stewart Coleman purchased it, undermining the argument that it was all just a mistake on the part of the county. We published these online, and we believe it helped seal the public perception that this deal should be opposed.”

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“Yes: Just do it! Citizens have the right to request public records. When researching, don’t rely on one source. … If you can’t find what you’re looking for in official records, research elsewhere.

Don’t be intimidated — by anyone. As a citizen, you are simply exercising your right to participate in the process and gather information.”

Policing the APD

Who: Steve Rasmussen, Dixie Deerman and other core members of Asheville Justice Watch (Barry Summers, David Lynch, Bruce White, Karen and Jerry Vaneman, and Bruce Elmore Jr.) What was your mission, and how did you get involved?: “Asheville Police Department reacted brutally to a peaceful anti-war demonstration in March 2003, and we [Dixie and Steve] and Barry were among dozens arrested and mistreated. With activists from the local ACLU and African-American community, we formed Asheville Justice Watch to expose and end the APD’s entrenched brutality and corruption, and to push for a Citizens Police Review Board that would investigate complaints.”

How did you get the public records?

“Black, female and pro-union APD officers quietly cheered us on because they suffered from the racism, sexism and favoritism that pervaded APD under [then] Chief Will Annarino’s regime.

A female officer contacted AJW and slipped us a copy of the confidential ‘Asheville Police Department Policy Manual.’”

What obstacles did you encounter?

“We did not even know the manual existed until the officer volunteered it. She knew APD’s top brass were constantly breaking their own policies and rules. The hardest part was slogging through the fat bureaucratic tome, but between us, Dixie and I read and made notes about every single page.”

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact did it have?

“AJW publicized two key policies: 1) When an officer used physical force against a citizen (beatings were common then), he was required to charge the citizen with resisting arrest. 2) APD’s ‘media policy’ forbade officers to make ‘unsolic-

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ited information releases’ or give a reporter ‘preferential treatment.’ When Annarino ruined Brian Peterson, the only city Council member who stood up to him, with a slanderous, unsolicited ‘leak’ to the Citizen-Times exclusively, we exposed his violation of his own media policy.

He abruptly retired shortly afterward, and we compelled the city to include the public in the search for his successor (Chief Bill Hogan).”

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“Find the standards public officials profess to follow, and hold them to them. The most effective weapon for bringing down a corrupt official is his or her own hypocrisy. People shrug their shoulders at brutality, greed and lies in high places — but they won’t tolerate a public figure who’s revealed to practice the opposite of what he preaches.”

The Corridor K road

Who: Southern Environmental Law Center, Asheville branch What is your mission, and how did you get involved?

The Southern Environmental Law Center was founded 20 years ago with the goal of protecting the Southeast’s natural environment.

One of the cases they worked on last year concerned the environmental impacts of the proposed Corridor K road through the Nantahala National Forest.

Go-getter: Don Yelton, a political activist and occasional candidate, and two colleagues successfully sued Buncombe County more than a decade ago over access to public records. photo by Jason Sandford

How did you get the public records?

“We made a public-records request for the [state Department of Transportation’s] environmental-impact study,” reports Senior Attorney D.J. Gerken.

I know this sounds funny from me — the more lawyerly approach of requesting everything to do with a certain topic. I’ve found you get the information faster that way. Of course, sometimes you still have to scream and yell.”

What obstacles did you encounter?

“No obstacles that time,” Gerken recalls.

“During the Bush years, we encountered a lot more obstacles to open-records requests than we ever have from the state level.” That’s changed, he reports, though an executive order from the Obama administration has had “mixed results depending on the agency, which is typical.”

Three against the county

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact did it have?

“We wanted to know if the study backed up the idea that at any point there would be enough traffic to justify the four-lane road they were proposing. There wasn’t. Probably partly because of that, the Army Corps of Engineers later instructed them to do a much more modest two-lane road. The difference in footprint between the projects was huge.”

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“This may sound strange, but be cognizant of the burden these requests can place on the agencies involved. It’s usually more effective if you’re willing to work with them and focus the information you’re pursuing, instead of — and

20 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Who: Don Yelton, former co-host of No Holds Barred, a public-access cable-television show focused on local political issues.

What was your mission, and how did you get involved?

In 1999, Yelton and fellow citizen activists Mike Morgan and Peter Dawes (the show’s other co-hosts) were submitting regular publicrecords requests to various Buncombe County government departments and agencies.

At the urging of County Manager Wanda Greene, the commissioners adopted a “multiple-information-request policy” that took effect in April of 1999. The policy required all requests for public records to be made in writing and gave Greene 10 days to respond.

How did you get the public records?

Yelton, Dawes and Morgan filed suit against the county, and in August of 1999, Superior Court Judge Loto Caviness found that state law “does not provide for a gatehouse.” Citizens, the judge ruled, have a right to inspect public records, and the keepers of them must allow it.

“That was a precedent-setting case,” notes Yelton.

What obstacles did you encounter?

Being forced to file a lawsuit was the biggest obstacle, says Yelton. Greene testified that the county policy had been implemented because the plaintiffs were bullying county workers.

Several employees were “reduced to tears” after dealing with one of them, she said. The judge urged the plaintiffs to be courteous when seeking their information, noting that there’s “no need for abusive behavior or threatening language.”

Yelton, however, disputes Greene’s contention, saying, “The case got to be dirty.”

What did you find in the records, and what did you do with that information? What impact has it had?

“When we started asking questions, we found out that not all boards and commissions were keeping minutes as they were supposed to,” Yelton reports. “We started asking for more records,” and that’s when the county adopted its policy.

As for impact, says Yelton, “It made them hide even more.”

Any advice for other activists seeking to find and use public records to advance their cause?

“Do not have a thin skin, and do not worry about what the major media says about you or your political party or the people in power. If you know you’re right, plow ahead.” X To learn more about Sunshine Week, visit www. sunshineweek.org.

news

X

asheville city council

New bricks for an old building City Hall facing major repairs

by David Forbes

march 9 meeting

Asheville’s City Building v Council wrestles with $5 million budget deficit is synonymous with the city v Vote on transit improvements postponed itself: Designed by acclaimed architect Douglas Ellington, its octagonal “wedding cake” roof is now the city’s official logo. The historic landmark (completed in 1928) is also the center of city government.

Now, however, it’s falling apart. There’s moss beneath the terra-cotta tiles of its unique roof, and the top two stories are unusable except as storage space. Some of the windows can no longer be opened; others are extremely loose (some so bad they can easily be removed by hand). Water damage is also a significant problem.

“There’s numerous, extensive cracks in several locations,” Building Safety Director Robert Griffin told Asheville City Council members during their March 9 meeting. “Most designers, even back then, assumed that a government building will last 50 years without some pretty major renovations, both to the interior and exterior. The fact we’ve got 82 years out of the building is impressive.”

Spread over several years, the renovations will cost an estimated $5.5 million, in part because the building’s status as a designated historic landmark means many of the components will have to be handmade. On March 9 Council voted 6-1 to begin that process by allocating $19,842 to hire a project director and soliciting proposals from companies qualified to undertake such an extensive project. Last month, City Council asked Rep. Heath Shuler for assistance seeking federal funding to help pay for the renovations.

“To those of us watching development issues in the city and county, ‘oops’ seems to happen a lot.”

— Asheville

resident

Barry Summers

In need of repair: Water damage and age mean Asheville’s The news couldn’t have come at a worse time: In a work session earlier famous City Building needs a $5.5 million renovation. photo by Jonathan Welch that day, city staff had spent nearly two hours spelling out the gory details of Asheville’s estimated $5 million budget deficit — and the session was “We’re at a financial crossroads: we’re in the middle of a great recession, continued to March 23. we have few new sources of revenue, it’s difficult for us to pursue growth,” As a result, Mayor Terry Bellamy, who cast the lone dissenting vote, was Chief Financial Officer Ben Durant told Council. “The impact of these reluctant to begin the expensive renovations just yet. trends is that, for the past few years, we’ve had about a 5 percent budget “This is a nearly $6 million endeavor, and as the years go by, it will probgap. That requires structural change: It’s difficult balancing that using norably be over that amount,” she said. “What’s the difference between doing mal methods. ... I’ve seen research indicating we’re in the ‘new normal’ due this tonight and doing it with the rest of the budget? We can do it when we to changes in the economy.” take into consideration all our debt and our situation.”

For Asheville, staffers say, that new norm includes health-care costs that But City Manager Gary Jackson replied that staff had recommended have more than doubled since 2004, a transit system that runs a considerproceeding as quickly as possible. able deficit, restrictions on water revenues and growth imposed by the “We feel a sense of urgency,” said Jackson. “We really think the sooner Sullivan Acts — and, driving the whole situation, declining property- and we get someone on board who’s handling this, the sooner we can get the sales-tax revenues. A further limitation is the fact that the city’s fund balproposals out, start applying for federal and state funds. The manager will ance (a rainy-day fund municipalities maintain for just this kind of situabring a level of expertise we’re going to need over the next four years. tion) stands at 14.5 percent of the total budget — less than the city’s target Putting this off puts off our ability to recruit.”

15 percent figure. Over the course of the work session, Council members The other Council members found that argument persuasive. were adamant that no further money be taken from the fund balance.

“We’re not saying tonight that we’re putting $5.5 million dollars out,” On the bright side, Durant noted that departmental budget cuts could noted Esther Manheimer. “I think, in this economy, there are some real slice $2 million from the projected deficit. And though they’ll create more gems to be had that are probably more than happy to handle this project at work for staff, those cuts shouldn’t negatively impact the level of services the price we’re asking. I think two years ago you would have been hardthe city delivers, he reported. pressed to find someone to handle something of this size at this price.”

Council also plans to act on staff’s suggestion that funding for local nonprofits be reduced by 4 to 8 percent (and perhaps significantly more).

The fiscal tension that hung over the remainder of the meeting began at “I don’t think that’s nearly enough,” observed Bellamy, and Vice Mayor Brownie Newman agreed. that day’s 3 p.m. work session.

Empty coffers, looming tax increase?

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One option suggested by Durant that is now on the table is a property-tax increase. Long politically taboo, the idea seemed to be finding some support on Council.

“I’ve been on record saying I’m not against an increase in the property tax,” said Bothwell. “I think it’s the most progressive tax we can levy.”

Council member Jan Davis agreed, though with some caveats: “I don’t want to raise taxes, but if it’s what we need to operate the city, I can do that.

“It’s hard for me say, ‘Yes, I want to increase taxes,’” noted Manheimer. “If it’s a matter of keeping the lights on and the streets drivable, then we have no choice.”

Newman, meanwhile, said, “I certainly don’t think we should reduce the fund balance, and I’m going to be committed to working really hard to not raise the property-tax rate.”

Council member Bill Russell concurred, saying he wouldn’t support a tax increase.

Most Council members, however, balked at a proposed 9 percent hike in water rates, worrying that it would drastically affect residents and businesses in the middle of a recession; instead, Council favored a 4 percent increase. Staff had originally proposed a 4 percent increase but then recommended tacking on an additional 5 percent (about $1.6 million) to replace water revenues the city plans to siphon off to repair sidewalks and roads affected by water-infrastructure work.

“I’ve got a problem with adding 5 percent on top of 4 percent, frankly, at a time like this; we may not need that,” said Davis. “I’ve got calls from members of the community: This is a tough time, and 9 percent is a lot of money.”

Bellamy and Newman agreed, and Council member Gordon Smith voiced concern about the impact on small businesses (though he later noted his support for a 4 percent increase). “$1.6 million would be nice right now, but unless we can do it without costing our community jobs, I think we’re going to have to put [the road repairs] on hold,” Smith said.

Council members voted to continue the work session until March 23, when they’ll discuss possible budget cuts.

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Budget uncertainty also prompted Council members to delay action on a package of proposed transit-system changes for a month.

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major thoroughfares such as Biltmore Avenue and Haywood Road. They would be paid for by a mix of higher fares, federal grants and a $30,000 jump-start from the city’s general fund (to get the changes up and running until increased fare revenues kicked in).

But some on Council voiced concerns about committing that money before so much else in the budget was decided. Russell, in particular, said he opposed the changes, as currently configured, due to the $30,000 cost to the city.

The federal funds, noted staff, would finance a marketing push to inform transit system users about the changes. And Smith called the measure “money well spent” considering the increased quality of service.

Newman, however, was leery of such a move, despite staff’s contention that Asheville’s rates — $1 for a ride and $15 for a normal monthly pass — are far below those in many other cities.

Keeping rates low, he argued, “encourages regular riders. A lot of low-income people ride the bus; I’m wary of raising rates on them.”

And Manheimer said some of the marketing dollars should go toward making the system more comprehensible to new riders — a major obstacle, in her view. “You shouldn’t have to have an A in algebra just to get on the bus,” she observed.

Bellamy and other Council members urged transit staff to confer with other departments on ways to avoid taking the $30,000 from the general fund.

What’s the plan?

City Council also heard criticism on the Feb. 23 appointment of Holly Shriner — a developer’s wife with no formal qualifications — to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Her husband, Asheville accountant Foster Shriner, is a co-developer of the former Deal Buick site on Merrimon Avenue, and because some Council members weren’t aware of this when they voted on the appointment, Council decided that, in the future, it will ask future board-and-commission applicants to disclose potential conflicts of interest.

“It’s not unusual for people to have those conflicts, and we have a process for them recusing themselves. But we do think it would be beneficial to ask people to disclose them,” noted Newman.

(Shriner has said she’ll recuse herself from any consideration of the Deal site’s fate.)

In an e-mail earlier in the day, Bothwell had proposed dissolving and re-forming the commis-

sion, so Council could reconsider the appointments of Shriner and engineer Mark Brooks. But because P&Z includes two members who would have to be reappointed by the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, Bothwell backed off.

“My concern is that the process denies each of us the chance to discuss the applicants’ strong points in public,” he explained. “I’d like to see that [discussion] made more public.”

Asheville resident Barry Summers criticized both Shriner’s appointment and the process that led to it.

“I hope this isn’t where you’re going to leave it, just saying ‘Oops,’” he observed. “To those of us watching development issues in the city and county, ‘oops’ seems to happen a lot. Oops, we didn’t mean to sell off this parkland. Oops, we didn’t mean for Greenlife, for Staples, for the Grove Park Inn. It’s always a ‘Well, this is against the rules, but we’ll let it go anyway.’ I believe Mrs. Shriner wasn’t entirely honest. Failing to disclose things that important approaches hoping not to be asked. ... I think it sends a terrible signal, and I hope you revisit it ” Russell, however, defended Shriner’s appointment, saying, “I don’t think it was an ‘oops.’ We had a good discussion, and a lot of people in our community are heavily involved in a lot of things.”

Other business

On other fronts, Council members: • endorsed (on a 6-1 vote) a push by the Mountain Area Information Network to apply for federal funds to develop a community cloud-computing network that would give local agencies access to enhanced computing power and more advanced applications. Russell cast the lone opposing vote, saying he wanted more information.

• unanimously backed a Public Art Board proposal to install a new work of art at the Reed Creek Greenway gateway at Broadway and Cauble Street; the project would be funded by a National Endowment for the Arts grant the city is applying for. An alternate proposal from the Downtown Master Plan called for using the grant money to create a cultural search engine that could easily link artists, potential customers and the community at large. Smith suggested seeking a grant from the Tourism Product Development Fund to implement the search-engine project. X David Forbes can be reached at dforbes@mountainx. com or at 251-1333, ext. 137

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Thanks to some help from the Western North Carolina Alliance, a former UNCA environmental program and lab may re-emerge. The Environmental Quality Institute — closed in 2009 after budget cuts ousted it from campus — will be reborn as an Alliance program.

The two groups recently announced that the Alliance will help the institute establish itself as a freestanding nonprofit. Last fall, after the UNC budget approved by the N.C. General Assembly mandated $1.28 million in cuts for UNCA, the institute closed. Despite arguments that it was sustained largely by grant funding, EQI was one of a handful of campus programs cut.

Ann Marie Traylor, formerly the institute’s head chemist, has since taken on the role of director and approached the Alliance last fall to gauge their interest in resurrecting the program. In January of this year, the board voted to act as fiscal manager for EQI, in effect making it a program operating under the umbrella of the Alliance. The latter group’s experience and reach into the community, says WNCA Executive Director Julie Mayfield, will help bring in the necessary funding to keep the institute going.

It’s estimated that the institute will need $150,000 per year in operating funds.

“It was an easy decision for our board,” Mayfield says. “They were very excited about it, given the role that EQI and [the Volunteer Water Information Network] has played in the community for such a long time.”

VWIN was one of the institute’s main initiatives, in conjunction with several local nonprofits. Volunteers collect samples from the region’s streams that are then analyzed by staff chemists. That information, Traylor says, was used by several other environmental organizations, especially as a tool for securing funding for water-quality improvement projects.

“We’ve had so much community support,” Traylor says. “That’s the reason I think this is

Up and running: The Environmental Quality Institute expects to reopen this summer thanks to help from the WNC Alliance. photo by Jonathan Welch

going to work out.”

At first, the new version of the institute will focus primarily on VWIN, says Traylor. “That is going to be the foundation,” she adds. “We’ve dropped a lot of the other projects.”

The agreement means that EQI will be an Alliance program, with the latter helping apply for and manage the funds it will take to run the program for one year. After that, both Traylor and Mayfield say, the institute will hopefully spin off as its own nonprofit group. There are plans to bring on student staffers as well, a move that mirrors the institute’s previous incarnation at UNCA. “We’ve always had several students working per semester,” Traylor says.

“And most of those students walked away with a publication in a peer-reviewed journal. I’d really like to keep that kind of thing going.”

Currently, Traylor is scouting locations for the institute’s lab and recovering lab equipment purchased by the institute but technically the property of the university. “The people at UNCA have actually been very helpful in trying to help this current version of EQI work out,” she says.

entire school system include: three on previously scheduled teacher workdays (Feb. 22, March 12, and May 31, which is Memorial Day); April 7, 8 and 9, originally scheduled as part of Spring Break; Saturday, March 6; Saturday, March 27; Saturday, June 5; Friday, June 10; and Monday, June 14. Saturday makeup days and May 31 will be earlyrelease days. Students in the Erwin and North Buncombe districts have already made up two additional days on Saturday, Feb. 20, and Saturday, Feb. 27. Students in the North Buncombe district will also attend school on April 10 and two additional days, yet to be announced.”

On March 4, the Buncombe County Board

of Education voted to allow the flexibility in the schedule by declaring this winter an “exceptional situation” — the magic words that allow the school system to circumvent the state-mandated end of the school year on June 10.

Asheville City Schools is taking its own measures to make up the eight days missed, having already held several Saturday schools and extending the school year by one day.

The makeup days left are: Friday, March 26; Friday, April 2; Monday, May 31 (early dismissal); and Friday, June 11.

Of course, this all could change if any more snow comes our way.

— Brian Postelle

Anyone wishing to contribute to the EQI can contact the Western North Carolina Alliance at www.wnca. org or 258-8737.

— Brian Postelle

School’s out when?

Did this year’s snow get you down? If you’re a Buncombe County student or teacher, the downside isn’t over yet. On March 9, the Buncombe County school system announced that summer break will come two days late this year thanks to the need to make up snow days. Rather than ending on Thursday, June 10, class will let out on Monday, June 14.

This year’s snowy winter meant all Buncombe County schools missed at least 11 school days, with the Erwin district canceling 13 days and the North Buncombe district taking the cancellation cake at 16 days.

How do you make that kind of time up? The BCS Web site says it best: “The system-wide makeup days for the

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Why don’t we do it in the road? The John Lennon Educational Tour bus, a full-fledged audio and video studio on wheels, will make an appearance at the April 15 to 18 HATCHfest Asheville.

Coutesy of John Lennon Educational Tour Bus

HATCHfest Asheville planning on a roll An upcoming festival will bring a busload of creativity to Asheville — literally. Last week, organizers for the second annual HATCHfest Asheville, a multidisciplinary arts-and-mentoring event that takes place April 15 to 18, announced that one high-profile “guest” at the fest will be the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus. The bus is an audio and video recordingand-production facility on wheels. “Working together with some of the biggest names in music, the Lennon Bus encourages students to play music, write songs, engineer recording sessions and produce video projects using the latest audio, video and live-sound equipment,” HATCHfest said in a press release. The bus will be open to public tours on Sunday, April 18.

One area musician or band will be selected to work one-on-one with singer/songwriter Matt Morris to record a song and music video in the bus. Morris’ debut album, When Everything Breaks Open, was released by Tennman Records in January. He’s written songs — some of them top-10 hits — for Justin Timberlake, Kelly Clarkson and Christina Aguilera. (Visit www. hatchasheville.org for information on applying to work with Morris.)

Festival co-founder Sean O’Connell and HATCHfest board member Craig McAnsh announced other high-profile festival participants at a fundraiser last Thursday at Blue Spiral 1. More headliners and programming details will be announced this week, according to O’Connell; here are some of them, listed by discipline, from the HATCHfest Web site: • Fashion: Jeff Garner, founder of Franklin, Tenn.-based Prophetik, a sustainable-clothing line; and Linda Loudermilk, a couture, eco and lifestyle designer dubbed the “Vivienne Westwood of eco” by Elle Magazine.

• Film: filmmaker and philanthropist Charles Annenberg Weingarten, vice president and director of the Annenberg Foundation; documentary and dramatic-film director Jonathan Walls; David Klein, a photography director and longtime collaborator with director Kevin Smith; and award-winning director and writer Jon Amiel, who has also worked in television, theater and commercials • Journalism: Rachael Maddux, associate editor at Paste Magazine; Jeff Chu, an editor at Fast Company magazine; Fritz Kramer, who grew up in Asheville and now lives in Washington, D.C., where he works for the PBS news program Frontline; and award-winning investigative television reporter Jeffrey Pohlman.

• In addition, Jennifer Pickering, founder and executive director of the Lake Eden Arts Festival and LEAF International, will serve as a mentor and panelist, offering her perspectives on using art and culture to foster social and economic justice.

As was the case last year, all of the educational events will be free and open to the public. There will also be ticketed parties and performances. While parts of the festival will take place in various venues, the event space On Broadway will be the new Innovator’s Lounge — the center of HATCHfest activity.

Speaking at the fundraiser last week, O’Connell stressed that calling HATCHfest a festival can be a bit of misnomer. “It’s really an amazing networking event,” he said. “It’s this amazing place and time [where] you can soak up knowledge and experiences from other creative types.”

HATCHfest Asheville is seeking additional volunteers to help staff the event; visit www.hatchasheville.org for details.

— Jon Elliston

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Asheville Hardware is moving from the Biltmore Avenue location it established in 2007, but will remain downtown by opening a larger store at 10 Buxton Ave. on April 1.

Since its beginnings, the store was heralded as a return of nuts-and-bolts goods in a downtown full of galleries and boutiques (see “Hardware returns to downtown Asheville,” Oct. 10, 2007 Xpress.)

The store’s employees say the move will help the business expand into new services like machinery repair and used-machinery sales, the last of which has been in high demand during the economic slump. Also slated for the new, larger space are expanded sheet goods, i.e. plywood, which is in constant demand thanks to the store’s focus on woodworking. Store manager Rob Kimzey says the store also will work to grow its popular reclaimed lumber section. Meanwhile, co-owner Rebecca Gholson notes the new store will have a more accessible parking lot and a drive-in bay for loading materials, which she says will be an improvement over the first store’s Biltmore Avenue parking.

The store’s Biltmore location was slated to close its doors March 13 after a weeklong closing sale, and work was already underway preparing the new store.

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April 1 also will see the sixth annual hospitality career fair hosted by AshevilleBuncombe Technical Community College’s Hotel and Restaurant Management program.

The fair spotlights careers in the industry, with last year’s event boasting 40 participating companies.

This year, organizers are anticipating 30 recruiters from Western North Carolina and the Southeast looking to fill internships, as well as salaried, part-time and full-time positions. There will also be information offered

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on educational opportunities and how to ”dress for success,” among other topics.

The fair will take place from 9 a.m. to noon in the college’s Magnolia Building on the Asheville campus. For more information, call 254-1921 ext. 7660 or e-mail hospitalitycareerfair@abtech.edu.

Missed the fairs?: Biltmore Estate and Pack’s Tavern still on the hunt Also on the job front: Two organizations that recently held popular hiring fairs have taken to social media to fill remaining spots.

The soon-to-open Pack’s Tavern announced that it will conduct a second round of hiring (www.twitter.com/PacksTavern) and the Biltmore Estate is also calling for more applicants (www.biltmore.com/careers/).

No experience necessary: Buncombe County warns against work-from-home scams Buncombe County government’s e-zine recently published tips to avoid pyramid scams masquerading as work-from-home opportunities. High unemployment rates and economic uncertainty have led to increased popularity of these rings, the Web site says.

“While working from the comfort of your own home may sound tempting, it is more imperative than ever that you safeguard yourself and your family from potential scams that go hand-in-hand with this line of work,” the article notes.

For examples of work-from-home scams, go to: www.buncombecounty.org/news_ Detail.asp?newsID=8823.

emPower aid: Wall Street businesses team up for Helpmate The restaurants and shops of Wall Street will team up on April 10, donating portions of their sales from that day to the local domestic-violence agency Helpmate. The event, dubbed emPower Shopping, will include Early Girl Eatery, Spellbound Children’s Bookshop, Purl’s Yarn Emporium, The Market Place restaurant, Beads and Beyond, Fired Up! Creative Lounge & Art Boutique, and others, according to an announcement from the organization.

Organizers call the event “a fun way for all of us to help raise awareness about domestic violence and raise funds for a vital community resource by doing something many of us would be doing on a Saturday anyway: eating and shopping!”

Check out developing news of the event at: www.empowershopping.org.

Send your business news and announcements to business@mountainx.com.

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Picture this: After knocking off for the day, a spry young woman (hereinafter referred to as Becky) emerges from her place of business on Kenilworth Road and finds, to her surprise, a strange black-and-white dog sitting at the base of a large oak tree, gazing upward longingly. Upon closer inspection, Becky discovers a young, bearded fellow perched in a nest of limbs high above. After petting the amiable canine and exchanging a few cordial words with this mysterious acrobat, Becky gets into her station wagon and drives home, pondering this peculiar encounter.

Perhaps it ignites a long-dormant ember of passion still smoldering within Becky, touching her so profoundly that she decides then and there to rekindle that lost flame by climb-

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Tree climbing is my own personal yoga — a physical, emotional and spiritual euphoria that’s right there at my fingertips. ing a tree a day for the rest of her life — and maybe even keeping a running account of her arboreal adventures. Or does she just plunk down on the couch and turn on the TV? I’m a man of many passions. I’ve traveled this world over and picked the banjo till my fingers were sore. I’ve dined with the best of ’em, hoisted a stein with the rest of ’em. But above all else, I like to climb trees. Always have. Tree climbing is my own personal yoga, a physical, emotional and spiritual

28 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Up a tree with a banjo: Lauren Joffe joined tree-climber (and author) Charlie Keller for an outing in his one-tree-a-day-for-a-year quest. photo by Stephanie Milford

euphoria that’s right there at my fingertips — truly the butter on my bagel.

But it was on New Year’s Eve, as I sat in a mountaintop cabin wrapped in the warmth of my dearest compadres, that I decided to truly give this passion its due. My New Year’s resolution for 2010 is to climb a different tree every day — rain or shine — and keep a daily account of what has so far turned out to be a pretty epic endeavor.

Now keep in mind, dear reader, that when I came to this conclusion, not only was I a wee bit hazy-headed from the champagne, but this particular day happened to be warm and sunny. I failed to take into account Jack Frost’s icy finger, which seems to have been a pretty common theme this winter. There have indeed been some pretty frosty climbs thus far.

Naturally, the question of why? comes into play here. Let’s just say it’s one step up from hugging a tree every day. Besides, everybody does yoga — and at least this doesn’t require a mat. Seriously, though, I do believe the world would be a better place if we each climbed a tree every day.

And so, dear reader, if you ever happen to emerge from your place of business to discover a strange, black-and-white cookie of a dog sitting faithfully at the base of a tree, please don’t call the cops. Best to just pet the dog and go about your day. Or join me: I would love the company… X When he’s not climbing trees, Asheville resident Charlie Keller teaches at Evergreen Charter School.

outdoorscalendar Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Ed’s Incredible Adventure Presentation (pd.) Tues., Mar. 23rd, 7 p.m. - Come join us at the Arden store as Ed Maggart, science teacher and Director of Mountaineering at Asheville School, revisits his threemonth journey in Central Asia. In late summer and fall of 2009, Ed made his trip through Mongolia, Western China, Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan. He will present stories of the journey and the high point of the trip, the technical ascent of Ama Dablam. For more information, contact Sarah at smerrell@diamondbrand.com Asheville Track Club The club provides information, education, training, social and sporting events for runners and walkers of any age.

Please see the group Web site for weekly events and news. Info: www.ashevilletrackclub.org or 253-8781.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 5:30pm - Carrier Park Runners. Meet at the Carrier Park Pavilion. Leader: Dick Duccini, 645-8887. Pace: slow-moderate —- 6pm - Beginning Runner’s Program. Meet at the Carrier Park Pavilion. Leader: Tom Kilsbury, burytom@charter.net —- 6pm - ATC Walkers Club. Meet at the Carrier Park Pavilion. Leader: Larry Fincher, HawCreekLarry@aol. com.

• SATURDAYS, 8am - Carrier Park Runners. Meet at Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary. Leader: Dick Duccini, 6458887 —- 8am - Beginning Runner’s Program. Meet at Carrier Park Pavilion. Leader: Tom Kilsbury, burytom@ charter.net —- 8am - ATC Walkers Club. Meet at Fletcher Park. Leader: Sherry Best-Kai, 595-4148 or bestmsrd@ mchsi.com. Call ahead to confirm.

• SUNDAYS, 8am - Carrier Park Runners. Park at NC Arboretum Greenhouse. Leader: Dick Duccini, 645-8887.

Long, slow distance on trails —- 8:30am - ATC Trail Run. Park at NC Arboretum Greenhouse. Leaders: Bryan Trantham, 648-9336, and Rick Taylor, 776-3853. Pace: 8:30-9:30mpm.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults.

Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www.autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• TUESDAYS, 1-2pm - Hiking groups for adults.

Blue Ridge Bicycle Club Encourages safe and responsible recreational bicycling in the WNC area. To find out more about the club and its ongoing advocacy efforts, or to see a complete club calendar, visit www.blueridgebicycleclub.org.

• THURSDAYS - Fletcher Blue Sky Road Ride. Departs promptly at 9:15am. Route and meeting place vary. No one will be left behind. E-mail: JohnL9@MorrisBB.net.

• SA (3/20), 8:30am - Bike lane cleanup. Meet at Clingman Ave. Cafe in the River Arts District for breakfast.

Cleanup will start at 9am and end no later than noon.

Bring gloves, shovels, brooms and clippers. All are welcome.

• SATURDAYS - Gary Arthur Ledges Park Road Ride.

Departs in the a.m. from Ledges Park, located 6.5 miles off UNCA exit on I-26. Ride north along the French Broad River to Marshall for coffee, then return via Ivy Hill. Email: jbyrdlaw@charter.net.

• SUNDAYS - Folk Art Center Road Ride. Departs in the p.m. from the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This is a show-n-go ride, meaning there may not be a ride leader. Info: 713-8504 or billcrownover@bellsouth. net.

Carolina Mountain Club CMC fosters the enjoyment of the mountains of WNC and adjoining regions and encourages the conservation of our natural resources, through an extensive schedule of hikes and a program of trail building and maintenance. $20 per year, family memberships $30 per year. Newcomers must call the leader before the hike. Info: www.carolinamtnclub.org.

• WE (3/17), 8:30am - DuPont Forest, Hooker Falls and Forest Circular Hike. Info: 236-0192 or danny@hikertohiker.com.

• SU (3/21), 8am - Mackey Mtn. and Sugar Cove Creek Trail. Info: 738-0751 or jimr57@yahoo.com —- 1pm - Ox Creek Road to Rattlesnake Lodge. Info: 645-0357 or bonnie@allencats.com.

• WE (3/24), 8:30am - Jones Gap Trail/Coldspring Loop.

Info: 628-2396.

Events at Historic Johnson Farm Located at 3346 Haywood Rd. in Hendersonville. There are two nature trails (free), and guided tours are offered.

Info: 891-6585 or www.historicjohnsonfarm.org.

• SA (3/20), 10am-Noon - Fly Casting School with Dale Klug of Avery Creek Outfitters, in conjunction with Trout Unlimited. For ages 10 and up. $10 adults/$5 kids.

Registration recommended.

Swannanoa Valley Museum Hikes Unless otherwise noted, all hikes begin in the parking lot of Black Mountain Savings Bank, 200 E. State St. in Black Mountain. Info or reservations: 669-9566 or swannanoavalleym@bellsouth.net.

• 3rd SATURDAYS, 8am - The Swannanoa Rim Explorer hiking series will host treks along 31 miles of the Swannanoa Rim. For experienced hikers only. $20 members/$40 nonmembers. Bring lunch, water and snacks.

2623 Hendersonville Rd. | Arden, NC 28704

MORE OUTDOORS EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Outdoors Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after March 25.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)251-1333, ext. 365

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Spring Diva Night: March 18th, 7–9pm at Diamond Brand Outdoors & Frugal Backpacker

Voted #1 Alternative Healing Center

OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, March 24th • 7-9 pm

Spring is near and we’re celebrating by bringing together women who love the outdoors. Come join us for fun, fashion and food. Diva Night is a benefit for Girls on the Run and features: • •

Come meet Dr. Rick Gloor who will be starting with us this April.

Doctor of Osteopathy and practitioner of Osteopathic Manual Medicine (OMM) with over 20 years experience!

Also that evening we will be offering FREE chair massage with Amanda and Robert and FREE Acupuncture demonstrations with Nancy.

• • •

Awesome Spring Fashion Show Yummy Luella’s BBQ: $5 donation benefitting Girls on the Run Complimentary massages Giveaways for first 100 women Lots of raffle prizes

•

•

Storewide discounts of 20% Off at DBO and 10% Off at Frugal Coupons for $10 Off at DBO and $5 Off at Frugal

779 Haywood Road • West Asheville • 828-505-3174 • CenterHolistic.com located between Orbit DVD & Westville Pub

WWW.DIAMONDBRAND.COM • 828-684-6262

2623 Hendersonville Rd, Arden, NC 28704

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 29

thedirt

farming & gardening

A shared harvest

Crop mobs help lighten the load, teach valuable lessons

by Mackensy Lunsford

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The agrarian life seems to be taking a turn for the hip. Urban gardens are receiving their fair share of press these days, as savvy city dwellers try to utilize every precious square inch of space.

And increasingly, farmers are turning out to be young, educated folks who’d rather get their fingernails dirty than dive into the rat race.

This is the face of neo-agrarianism — a shift toward a more earth-friendly and communityconscious approach. Ironically, it tends to play out as a way-back-to-the-roots style of farming: Like the seasons themselves, farming is proving to be cyclical.

Recently, The New York Times featured a piece on a pioneering group of mostly 20- and 30somethings in North Carolina’s Triangle area who launched the nation’s first “crop mob.”

The folks in the accompanying photo looked as though they’d be more at home at a Band of Horses gig than in a cow pasture, yet there they were.

Shaggy, T-shirted and flanneled, these passionate young people were helping a local farmer

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30 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Down and dirty: With crop mobbing, farmers-in-the-making labor and learn. photo courtesy of Trace Ramsey

gardeningcalendar Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Regional Tailgate Markets • For tailgate listings, visit www.mountainx.com/events and click on “Garden.” For more information, including the exact start and end dates of markets, contact the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project: 236-1282 or www.buyappalachian.org.

Southern Appalachian Chapter of the NARGS Meetings of the Southern Appalachian Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society are open to the public. Info: 698-7868.

• SA (3/20), 10:30am-12:30pm - “Growing Dwarf Conifers,” with Michael Balogh of Mountain Meadow Nursery. Registration begins at 10am. Coffee will be served.

Vital Gardens: Healthy Soil, Healthy Plants, Healthy People

assemble a greenhouse, clear some brush and build an enclosure for a herd of pigs. While they labored, they cheerfully spoke with the reporter, sprinkling in buzzwords like “networking” and “community building.” Their pay? Dinner, profuse words of thanks from a tired farmer ... and personal enrichment.

In a recent e-mail to Xpress, Kari Brayman, the brains behind Asheville’s own Crop Mob West, explained the theory behind her organization: “A crop mob is a group of farmers and wannabe farmers that ‘mob’ a farm once a month to build community and help out local farms. It plays off our agrarian roots, when folks used to come together to prepare, plant and harvest to feed the community. Since small farming can be very labor-intensive, crop mobs are well received by family farmers that rely heavily on temporary apprentices.”

The mobs, she continues, generally gather once a month to take care of farm chores — anything from digging ditches to picking tomatoes. As traditional as most of the tasks tend to be, the crop mobs themselves tend to rely on e-mail lists and other thoroughly modern methods to keep one another informed. And while no task appears to

• WE (3/17), 7:30-9pm - First in a series of Permaculture Roundtable discussions, with Monica Williams and the Culture’s Edge Permaculture Team. Learn how to make your backyard flourish. At North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave. Free. Presented by Culture’s Edge, a local nonprofit education organization.

BANKRUPTCY? Get A Fresh Start!

MORE GARDENING EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Gardening Calendar online at www.mountainx. com/events for info on events happening after March 25.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)251-1333, ext. 365

be too great or too small, what they clearly aren’t doing is charity work: Crop mobs only mob other crop mobbers. (Say that five times fast.)

The experience of crop mobbing, says Brayman, gives aspiring agrarians a chance to learn more about sustainable agriculture — much like an exceptionally work-intensive internship. And for farmers, the benefits are immeasurable. “The exchange also allows seasoned growers to learn from other growers [by trading] tips and experiences,” she says. “The side-by-side work has the added benefit of building community.”

The Triangle area crop mob began organizing in October of ’08, and since then, the concept has spread like wildfire among foodies and farmers everywhere. The Triangle group’s blog, which maps all the known U.S. mobs, is at crobmob. org.

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To get involved in Asheville’s budding Crop Mob West, go to http://groups.google.com/group/ cropmobwest or e-mail kari@sleepinthehay.com. X Mackensy Lunsford can be reached at food@ mountainx.com.

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DROP OFF DATES MARCH 23 & 24 9AM - 8PM PUBLIC SALE DATES MARCH 26 - 27 9AM-8PM • MARCH 28 12PM - 6PM

visit us at w w w. s h etradewnc.com and join the fun! mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 31

calendar

your guide to community events, classes, concerts & galleries

Community Events & Workshops • Social & Shared-Interest Groups • Government & Politics • Seniors & Retirees • Animals • Technology • Business & Careers • Volunteering • Health Programs & Support Groups Calendar C a t e g o r i e s : Helplines • Sports Groups & Activities • Kids • Spirituality • Arts • Spoken & Written Word • Food • Festivals & Gatherings • Music • Theater • Comedy • Film • Dance • Auditions & Call to Artists Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Unless otherwise stated, events take place in Asheville, and phone numbers are in the 828 area code.

Day-by-day calendar is online Want to find out everything that’s happening today — or tomorrow, or any day of the week? Go to www.mountainx. com/events.

Weekday Abbreviations: SU = Sunday, MO = Monday, TU = Tuesday, WE = Wednesday, TH = Thursday, FR = Friday, SA = Saturday

Community Events & Workshops AARP Tax-Aide The Tax-Aide Program will offer free tax preparation for seniors and for low-and middle-income taxpayers through April 15.

Electronic filing available. Call the individual location for details on what to bring. Info: www. aarp.org/taxaide. Questions and

requests for homebound individuals: 277-8288 or info@ coabc.org.

• MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 1-5pm - Senior Opportunity Center, 36 Grove St. Info: 350-2062.

• THURSDAYS, Noon-5pm Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Info: 250-6482.

• TUESDAYS, 9am-3pm - West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road. Info: 2504750.

• TUESDAYS, 10am-3pm Black Mountain Library, 105 N. Dougherty St. Info: 250-4756.

Buncombe Co. Parks, Greenways & Rec. Events Events are free and are held at 59 Woodfin Pl., unless otherwise noted. To register or for more info: 250-4265.

• MO (3/22), 11:30am-1pm - Sightseers: Learn ways to protect yourself from scams.

Register by March 18. Bring lunch. Dessert and drinks provided.

Eartheart Network

Calendar deadlines:

*FREE and PAID listings - Wednesday, 5 p.m.

(7 days prior to publication) Can’t find your group’s listing?

Due to the abundance of great things to do in our area, we only have the space in print to focus on timely events. Our print calendar now covers an eight-day range. For a complete directory of all Community Calendar groups and upcoming events, please visit www.mountainx.com/events..

Calendar Information In order to qualify for a free listing, an event must cost no more than $40 to attend and be sponsored by and/or benefit a nonprofit.

If an event benefits a business, it’s a paid listing.

If you wish to submit an event for Clubland (our free live music listings), please e-mail clubland@mountainx.com.

Free Listings To submit a free listing: * Online submission form (best): http://www.mountainx.com/ events/submission * E-mail (second best): calendar@mountainx.com * Fax (next best): (828) 251-1311, Attn: Free Calendar * Mail: Free Calendar, Mountain Xpress, P.O. Box 144, Asheville, NC 28802 * In person: Mountain Xpress, 2 Wall St. (the Miles Building), second floor, downtown Asheville.

Please limit your submission to 40 words or less.

Questions? Call (828) 251-1333, ext. 365.

Paid Listings Paid listings lead the calendar sections in which they are placed, and are marked (pd.).

To submit a paid listing, send it to our Classified Department by any of the following methods. Be sure to include your phone number, for billing purposes. * E-mail: marketplace@mountainx.com. * Fax: (828) 251-1311, Attn: Commercial Calendar * Mail: Commercial Calendar, Mountain Xpress, P.O. Box 144, Asheville, NC 28802 * In person: Classified Dept., Mountain Xpress, 2 Wall St. (the Miles Building), Ste. 214, downtown Asheville.

Questions? Call our Classified Department at (828) 251-1333, ext. 335.

A social and media network connecting people, issues and ideas from the heart to experience a new way of life that fully honors our relationship to ourselves, each other and the living world around us. Info: 989-8667 or eartheartnetwork. com.

• SA (3/20), 1pm - Eartheart Network makes its debut at Pritchard Park with a free community event. Several local leaders and organizations will be honored and upcoming Eartheart Network programs will be announced.

FENCE Events The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center is located in Tryon.

Free. Info: 859-9021 or www. fence.org.

• SA (3/21) - Astronomy Program at Hawk Ridge (behind the FENCE Center) at sunset. Observe the stars of the Spring Equinox.

Peace Rally and March • SA (3/20), Noon - Meet at Pritchard Park on the first day of spring to stand up for peace.

Sing, dance, speak and march through downtown to bring solidarity to the peace movement and express the desire for a U.S. foreign policy that embraces nonviolent solutions.

Public Lectures & Events at UNCA Events are free unless otherwise noted.

• WE (3/17), 4:15pm - Transitions in Appalachia Lecture: “Asheville: Forms of Transition,” a lecture with author Nan K. Chase in Highsmith University Union, room 104. Info: 232-5041.

• FR (3/19), 11:25am - Humanities Lectures: “Enlightening China and Japan: Western Imperialism in Asia,” with Dr. Cynthia Ho in Lipinsky Auditorium —“Representation and Reality,” with Seamus McNerney in Humanities Lecture Hall.

• SA (3/20), 8pm - “Around the World in 90 Minutes,” with author Marty Essen in the Alumni Hall, Highsmith University Union. Info: 2325145.

• MO (3/22), 11:25am Humanities Lectures: “Ancient Philosophy,” with Dr. Brian Hook in Lipinsky Auditorium —- “Reformations,” with Dr. Gary Ettari in the Humanities Lecture Hall.

WCU Asheville Luncheon Series

32 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Hear about the latest developments at the university at the Hilton in Biltmore Park. $10.50 for lunch. Info: alumni.wcu. edu, 227-7335 or mramsey@ wcu.edu.

• WE (3/17), 11:45am - Gathering and reception followed by lunch buffet —12:15pm - Program focusing on the department of athletics.

WNC Agricultural Center Hosts agricultural events, horse shows and farm-related competitions. Located at 1301 Fanning Bridge Road. in Fletcher. Info: 687-1414.

• FR (3/19) & SA (3/20) - Chunns Cove for Hospice Horse Show.

WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility • TH (3/25), 7pm - “Weapons in Space?” Led by professor and investigative journalist Karl Grossman, the discussion will focus on the nation’s plan to “weaponize and dominate space.” Refreshments will be served at 6:30pm. Held in the Reuter Center on the UNCA campus. Free. Info: www. wncpsr.org/events/karl-grossman-weapons-in-space.

Women in Health and Wellness Careers • TU (3/23), 4pm - The panel discussion, focusing on health and wellness career options for women, will feature presentations by local professionals Melissa Byrd, executive director of physician operations at Park Ridge Hospital; Kristina Lewis, naturopathic physician with Lewis Family Natural Health; and many others. Held at Highsmith University Union, Mountain Suites, on the UNCA campus. Free. Info: 251-6515.

Women’s History Month at UNCA • WE (3/17), 6:45pm - “Celebrating Advocacy: Asheville YWCA Working to Empower Women and Eliminate Racism,” panel featuring YWCA program directors and Dr. Sarah Judson in Laurel Forum, Karpen Hall. Info: 251-6285.

Social & SharedInterest Groups Create Your Ideal Relationship! (pd.) For individuals and couples who want to improve one or more relationships in their lives. Classes held last Sunday each month, 7pm-9pm. • Learn more! (828) 645-0999

weeklypicks Events are FREE unless otherwise noted. kids: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day Wednesday, March 17, at Hands On! Gallery, wed Attention 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. The children's gallery, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., will be offering St. Patrick's Day crafts and a scavenger hunt. Admission is $5. Info: 697-8333.

Local author Ron Rash will read from his new short-story collection, Burning Bright, at

thur City Lights Bookstore, 3 E. Jackson St., Sylva, on Thursday, March 18, at 7 p.m. and at

Malaprop's Bookstore/Cafe, 55 Haywood St., Asheville, on Friday, March 19, at 7 p.m. City Lights info: 586-9499. Malaprop's info: 254-6734.

fri

Spend an evening with acclaimed civil-rights leader and songstress Bernice Johnson Reagon Friday, March 19, at 7 p.m. at UNCA's Lipinsky Auditorium. Reagon will engage the audience with her signature "song-talk" style. Info: 251-6470.

sat

The RiverRun International Film Festival will showcase the films offered at the 2010 festival with a sneak preview Saturday, March 20, starting at 8:30 p.m. at Asheville's Fine Arts Theatre, 36 Biltmore Ave. Info: www.riverrunfilm.com.

sun

Black Mountain Center for the Arts invites the community to an Arts Clay Studio Open House, celebrating its two-year anniversary in the renovated old City Hall building, Sunday, March 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. View potters at work, attend the opening reception for Emerging Artists from 3 to 4 p.m. and more. Info: 669-0930.

Let's Talk: Workshops for Parents of Teens presents a discussion on "Sexual Orientation,"

mon Monday, March 22, at the Randolph Learning Center, 90 Montford Ave., Asheville. Parents

and guardians are invited to learn techniques to engage with teens on a variety of difficult issues. Info: anna@ourvoicenc.org.

tue

Women in Health and Wellness Careers, a panel discussion focusing on health and wellness career options for women, will feature presentations by numerous local professionals Tuesday, March 23, at 4 p.m. at Highsmith University Union, Mountain Suites, on the UNCA campus. Info: 251-6515.

or www.meetup.com/Creating YourIdealRelationship Asheville Cribbage Club Everyone who would like to play social cribbage is invited.

Info: 274-2398.

• MONDAYS, 6pm - Meets at McAlister’s in the Asheville Mall.

Asheville Homeless Network Meetings take place at Firestorm Cafe & Books in downtown Asheville. Info: 552-0505.

• THURSDAYS, 2pm - All homeless people and interested citizens are welcome.

Blue Ridge Toastmasters Club Meets once a week to enhance speaking skills both formal and impromptu. Part of an international proven program that takes you through the steps with fun along the way.

Network with interesting people of all ages and professions.

Info: www.blueridgetm.org or 926-4600.

• MONDAYS, 12:20-1:30pm - Meeting.

Financial Therapy Groups • TUESDAYS, 7-8pm - Try out new ways of living and of being, supported by others with similar circumstances, for

the collective wisdom of the group to enlighten all, while lightening the burden of each. $8. Info: www.financialtherapygroups.com.

Firestorm Cafe & Books Located at 48 Commerce St., Asheville. Info: 255-8115 or www.firestormcafe.com.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7-10pm Firestorm/Blitzkrieg game night (bring a game, if you’d like).

Scrabble Club Come play America’s favorite word game SCRABBLE. Info: 252-8154.

• SUNDAYS, 1-5pm - Meets at Books-A-Million in Asheville.

We have all the gear; just bring your vocabulary. No dues the first six months.

TEDxNextGenerationAsheville • 4th THURSDAYS, 6pm - Organizing committee meetings held in West Asheville.

Teens and adults are welcome.

Info: TEDxNGA@gmail.com or TEDxNGA.com.

The Talking Circle Open Share • TUESDAYS, 6:30-8pm - The Talking Circle is a new free and open weekly share: Books/Poetry/Artwork/Events/ Anything. At Montford Books in Asheville. Bring a passion

to share. Any and all are welcome. Info: thetalkingcircle@ gmail.com.

Western Alliance Center for Independent Living Located at 108 New Leicester Hwy., Asheville. Info: 2981977 or www.westernalliance. org.

• TH (3/18), 2-4pm - Pine cone crafts class. Use pine cones to make bird-feeders and other neat items. No charge to participate and materials provided. Call if you plan to attend —- 4-5:30pm - Irish stew potluck. Bring a side dish, drinks or a dessert. Wear an Irish hat, shirt or outfit; there will be a prize.

Youth Outright • FRIDAYS - Empowering LGBTQ youth in WNC from 14-20 years of age. Weekly evening Youth Group meetings at the Jefferson House, 21 Edwin Place, Asheville.

Government & Politics Henderson County Republican Women • 4th TUESDAYS, 11:30am1:30pm - Meets at The Cedars,

Hendersonville. $14. To RSVP, send a check payable to Eve Gregg, HCRWC, 236 Greenleaf Drive, Flat Rock, NC 28731, memo “Cedars.” Must be received one week prior to meeting.

Land-of-Sky Regional Council Info: 251-6622 or www.landofsky.org.

• WE (3/17), 11am - RPO TCC meeting —- 1:30pm - RPO TAC meeting at the Land-of-Sky Regional Council offices, 339 New Leicester Hwy, St. 140.

LibertyOnTheRocks.org A national nonpartisan social group connecting liberty advocates.

• MONDAYS, 7pm - Meets at El Chapala Restaurant off of Merrimon Ave.

Seniors & Retirees Henderson County Senior Softball League The league is always looking for new players, ages 55 and older. Weather permitting, they play year-round. Info: 698-3448 or www.LJRsoftball. com.

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 33

• TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS - Daytime games at Jackson Park in Hendersonville (AprilOct.) and Leila Patterson Center in Fletcher (Nov.March). Start times may vary with season.

Lakeview Senior Center 401 S. Laurel Circle, Black Mountain. Info: 669-8610.

• TH (3/18), 10:30am Senior Games Practice: Don McMahill will be coaching games such as football toss and softball throw at Grey Eagle Arena.

• TH (3/25), 11:15am - Van Clan: Take a women’s history tour of downtown Asheville. $18. Call to sign up.

Animals Asheville Humane Society Animals available for adoption from AHS at 72 Lee’s Creek Rd. in Asheville. View photos of animals currently available for adoption online.

Foster homes needed. Info: 236-3885, ext. 311 or www. ashevillehumane.org.

• WE (3/17), Noon-7pm - St. CATrick’s Day Adoption Day. Visit the shelter and get lucky.

Info: www.ashevillehumane. org/adoptions.

Asheville Kennel Club Membership is open to everyone interested in purebred

dogs and responsible dog ownership. Info: 258-4833 or www.ashevillekennelclub. com.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm Breed Handling Classes. Learn how to present your purebred dog in the Show Ring. Meets at the US Army Reserve Center on Louisiana Avenue.

Open to the public. Details and map on the website.

ChainFree Asheville A nonprofit, all-volunteer effort dedicated to improving the welfare of dogs living outdoors on chains and in pens in Asheville and Buncombe County. Info: www.chainfreeasheville.org or 450-7736.

• SUNDAYS, 11am-3pm - Come help a chained dog experience freedom. No experience necessary. Meets four times a month within Asheville or Buncombe County to build a fence for a chained dog.

Mercy For Animals A nonprofit animal advocacy organization dedicated to establishing and defending the rights of all animals. Info: 231-6859 or kaylaw@mercyforanimals.org.

• TH (3/25), 7pm “Dispelling the ‘Happy Meat’ Myth,” free presentation by animal advocate Leslie Armstrong at Firestorm Cafe, 48 Commerce St., Asheville.

Learn about what really happens to animals before they end up on a plate. Info: 2792139 or lesliearmstrong@ msn.com.

Technology Free Mac Computer Classes Classes are held at Charlotte Street Computers, 101 S. Lexington Ave., downtown Asheville. To register: classes@charlottestreetcomputers. com.

• MONDAYS, Noon-12:45pm - Mac OSX Basics class.

• WEDNESDAYS, Noon12:45pm - iMovie class.

• FRIDAYS, Noon-12:45pm - iPhoto class.

Business & Careers A-B Tech Continuing Ed Classes Classes are free, unless otherwise noted. Info: www.abtech. edu/ce.

• MO (3/22), 6-9pm “Apitherapy, Healing from the Hive.” Products like honey, propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen are valuable medicines.

Learn historical uses and recent scientific validation of their efficacy. Info: http:// abtech.edu/ce/schedule/bio. asp

Asheville’s Best Restaurant & Bar Guide is Back presents

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• TU (3/23), 6-8pm - “How to Successfully Sell Your Herbal Products to Retailers.” Explore issues small natural products businesses face when marketing and selling their products.

Info: http://abtech.edu/ce/ schedule/bio.asp.

Asheville Business Alliance • TU (3/23), 6-8pm - Web site design and strategy with Lorraine Conard. At Mountain BizWorks, 153 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville. $5 members/$10 public. RSVP by March 18: naomi@mountainbizworks.org.

Asheville SCORE Counselors to Small Business If your business could use some help, SCORE is the place to start. Free and confidential.

To make an appointment: 2714786. Our offices are located in the Federal Building, 151 Patton Ave., Rm. 259. Veterans may attend any SCORE seminar at no charge. Info: www.ashevillescore.org.

• SA (3/20), 8:30am-Noon - “Business Plan: A Must!”

This seminar is designed for the individual serious about pursuing a small business idea, but who needs some help to develop a business plan. At the Small Business Center, Rm. 2046, on the A-B Tech Enka Campus. $30 at the door. To register: 687-0154 or visit the Web site.

Mountain BizWorks Workshops Mountain BizWorks is located at 153 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville. Info: 253-2834 or www.mountainbizworks.org.

• FR (3/19), 9-11am - “Engineer Your Life,” with Randy Siegel. $20. RSVP: naomi@mountainbizworks.org.

Volunteering Arts in Action Volunteer Recruitment Fair • TH (3/25), 4:30-7:30pm - All Henderson County residents wanting to make a difference in their community are invited.

The event will be held at the Arts Council of Henderson County, 538 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Info: 693-8504.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• THURSDAYS, 4:30-5:30pm - Volunteering groups for teens.

Four Seasons Compassion for Life Volunteer Orientation/ Training Info: 692-6178.

• TH (3/18), 5-8:30pm - Volunteer orientation in Flat Rock. Welcoming new volunteers to serve hospice patients

in Buncombe and Henderson County to provide patients socialization,supportive presence, errands, and/or respite for the caregivers in homes, assisted living/ nursing facilities.

• SATURDAYS (3/20 & 27), 9am-4:30pm - Volunteer orientation in Asheville.

Habitat for Humanity Seeks Women Build Volunteers Women Build is Habitat’s volunteer program for women who want to learn construction skills and make a difference by building homes and communities. Info: brusso@ashevillehabitat.org.

• The next house starts March 16. To sign up to volunteer: www.ashevillehabitat.org, click on the Women Build logo. Once on VolunteerUp, set up an account, and check “Women Build 2010 team member.”

Men and Women Wanted Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for persons ages 18 and up to share outings twice a month with youth from single-parent homes. Activities are free or low-cost. Volunteers also needed to mentor 1 hr./wk. during the school year. Info: 253-1470 or www.bbbswnc.org.

• TH (3/18), Noon - Info session at the United Way building, 50 S. French Broad Ave., Rm. 213.

WNC AIDS Project Info: www.wncap.org or 2527489.

• Through TH (4/29) Volunteer as an Ambassador and help collect donations at area restaurants participating in this year’s Dining Out for Life fundraising event. Info: 252-7489.

Health Programs Enliven Your Health! Open House • This Saturday (pd.) 188/180 Charlotte Street, March 20, 1pm-4pm.

Join 5 eminent health care practitioners for delicious hors d’oeuvres and receive a complimentary chiropractic/health coach consultation, eye health screening, and massage. While you wait, watch a Pilates and GYROTONIC demo and visit with an Acupuncturist. RVSP: (828) 253-1727 or ACFHE@ bellsouth.net Professional Help For Overshoppers/Overspenders (pd.) • Begins February/March.

Stop the pain of Overshopping/ Overspending • Individual or group format • 10 session group beginning February/ March • Discover triggers and what you’re really shopping for • Learn specific tools and strategies to end the shame and pain • Holistic, Mindful and Compassionate approach.

Call Denise Kelley, MA, LPC:

231-2107 or email: empowering.solutions@yahoo.com Spring Cleaning Your Body • Detoxification For Better Health (pd.) Do you want: • More energy? • Better digestion? • Clearer skin? • Less pain? • 4 week program of education, food tastings, nutritional supplements and group support. • Wednesdays in April, 6:30pm8:30pm, Asheville. • Class limited to 10 • Register by March 31. • Registration/information: Elizabeth Pavka, PhD, LD/N, Wholistic Nutritionist, (828) 252-1406 or epavka@ main.nc.us 3 Yummy Vegan Macrobiotic Cooking Classes (pd.) With French Chef Didier Cuzange and Dr. Liliane Papin.

• Sundays, 3-6pm, downtown Asheville. • March 21: What’s for Breakfast? • March 28: Quick, Easy and Healthy • April 11: Sea Vegetables. $40/class, (Only $30 pre-registered, $10 non-refundable deposit). • Information/registration: 2581413 or www.kwanyinacupuncture.com Art of Intimacy Learn life-changing communication and relationship skills, drawing from the work of Brad Blanton (Radical Honesty), Marshal Rosenberg (Nonviolent Communication), Susan Campbell (Getting Real), John Bradshaw (Homecoming) and others. $60/4-session class.

Info: 254-5613 or www.centerforsacredsexuality.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7:309:30pm - Meeting.

Events at Pardee Hospital All programs held at the Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville. Free, but registration and appointments required unless otherwise noted. To register or for info: www.pardeehospital.org or 692-4600.

• MO (3/22), 12:30-4:30pm - AARP Safe Driving Class. $12 members/$14 nonmembers.

• TH (3/25), 3-4pm - Dealing with chronic pain? Edward Lewis will discuss treatment options.

Free H1N1 & Seasonal Flu Vaccines • Buncombe County Department of Health is offering H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines to anyone age 6 months or older. Mon.-Fri., 8am-4:30pm, no appointment needed. H1N1 vaccine is free; seasonal vaccine is free for those up to age 18. Info: 250-6400.

Health Events at Earth Fare South Located at 1856 Hendersonville Rd. Events are free, unless otherwise noted. Info: 210-0100.

• MO (3/22), 6:30pm - “Healthy Meals in Minutes” with Natural Foods Chef Janice

Husk. All dishes are gluten-free. $8. Call to register in advance as seating is limited.

Healthy Lifestyles in Shiloh At the Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Road.

Sponsored by Circle of Light Healing Center & Shiloh Community Center. Info: 2807287.

• WEDNESDAYS, 1-2:30pm - Senior potluck, qigong and lecture.

• WEDNESDAYS (through 3/31), 2-4:30pm - “Living Healthy” is a free, interactive workshop designed to help people manage a chronic condition, including pain, fatigue, depression and frustration.

Improve and maintain health.

To register: 251-7438.

• THURSDAYS, 6-8pm - “Eat, drink and be merry.” Vegetarian meal, lecture and alternative health treatment. By donation.

• MONDAYS, 6-8pm - “Sell yourself in today’s marketplace.”

Henderson County Red Cross Red Cross holds classes in CPR and First Aid for infants, children and adults; Standard First Aid in Spanish; Babysitter Training; Pet First Aid. Located at 203 Second Ave. East, Hendersonville. Info: 693-5605. : Blood Drive dates and locations are listed below.

Appointment and ID required.

• SU (3/21), Noon-4:30pm - Mills River Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2142 Jeffress Road. Info: 891-3034.

Outspoken Cancer Survivors • WE (3/17), 6:30-9pm - Free audience interactive talk show.

If affected by this week’s subject, have supportive information, need to talk about your experience, call 333-5129.

Filming of the bi-weekly show is at 333 Merrimon Ave. Host: DeBorah to be on panel.

Red Cross Events & Classes Red Cross holds classes in CPR/First Aid for infants, children, and adults; Babysitter Training; Pet First Aid; Bloodborne Pathogens; Swimming & Water Safety; and Lifeguarding. All classes held at chapter headquarters, 100 Edgewood Rd. To register, call 258-3888, ext. 221. Info: www.redcrosswnc.org. : Bloodmobile Drive dates and locations are listed below.

Appointment and ID required.

• TH (3/18), 2-6:30pm Lutheran Church of the Nativity, 2425 Hendersonville Road.

Info: 684-0352.

• SU (3/21), 8:30am-1pm - First Presbyterian Church, 40 Church St. Info: 253-1413.

Spring Mountain Community Center Located at 807 Old Fort Road, Fairview.

• MONDAYS, 7pm; WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS,

8:30am - Yoga. Bring a mat and blanket or towel. Improve your breathing, flexibility and stamina. $5-$7 donation per session.

Step/Weights Class Free ongoing aerobics class with step, weights, resistance bands and stretches.

Offered by Asheville Parks & Recreation to promote Asheville’s cardiovascular health. At Stephens-Lee Center (from S. Charlotte, turn on Max St. and go up the hill).

Info: 350-2058.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 5:30-6:30pm - Step/Weights Class ending with mat work

(stretches, yoga & pilates).

All levels.

density checks and PSA tests for $10.

Tai Chi Class • TUESDAYS, 1:30pm - At CarePartners Seymour Auditorium, 68 Sweeten Creek Rd., Asheville. Taught by Shellye Godfrey, Occupational Therapist and Certified Instructor of Tai Chi for Arthritis & Health. $7/session.

Info: 274-6179.

Wellness on Wheels Van • SA (3/20), 8-11am - The Wellness van from Park Ridge Hospital will be in the parking lot of the Asheville North Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 364 Broadway. Bone

Support Groups Adult Children Of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families ACOAs continue “survival” behaviors they had as children, which no longer serve them as adults. Come learn how to grow in recovery and become the person you are meant to be through this 12-step fellowship. Info: 545-9648.

• FRIDAYS, 7-8:30pm - Meets at Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave., Asheville.

Al-Anon Al-Anon is a support group for the family and friends of alcoholics. More than 33 groups are available in the WNC area.

Info: 800-286-1326 or www. wnc-alanon.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 8-9pm - Newcomers meeting and discussion: West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road, across from Ingles. Enter through parking lot door. Info: 225-0515.

• WEDNESDAYS, 12:151:15pm - Step study: First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. Park in the back of lot between Church and Y. Info: 686-8131.

• WEDNESDAYS, 8pm - Al-Anon in West Asheville: Meeting at West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Rd., across from Ingles. Separate Newcomers’ Meeting meets also at 8pm.

Info: 258-4799.

• THURSDAYS, 7pm - Discussion meeting for parents of children with addictions: West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road, across from Ingles. Info: 242-6197.

• FRIDAYS, 8pm - The Lambda (GLBT) group of AlAnon is a gay-friendly support group for families and friends of alcoholics, and holds their

weekly candlelight meeting at All Souls Cathedral, 3 Angle St. Info: 670-6277 (until 9pm).

• FRIDAYS, 12:30-1:30pm - Discussion meeting: First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. Park in the back of lot between Church and Y. Info: 686-8131.

• FRIDAYS, 6:30pm Discussion meeting for couples only: All Souls Cathedral, 3 Angle St. Info: 676-0485.

• SATURDAYS, 10am - Al-Anon North: Meeting at Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. • SATURDAYS, 10am - Saturday Serenity at St Mary’s Episcopal Church on

Now is a great time to become a teacher!

East Tennessee State University’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education leads to: • Initial licensure PreK-3 or non-license degree in Early Childhood • Cohorts to begin Fall 2010!

Thursday, March 18 6 p.m.

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College

In-State tuition for residents of border counties: Ashe, Avery, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Watauga, and Yancey mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 35

the corner of Charlotte and Macon. Beginners welcome.

• SATURDAYS, Noon - Weaverville discussion meeting at First Baptist Church on N. Main St., next to the library. Enter via side glass doors.

• SUNDAYS, 5-6pm Discussion meeting: West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road. Info: 281-1566.

• MONDAYS, 12-1pm - Discussion meeting: First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. Park in the back of lot between Church and Y. Info: 686-8131.

• TUESDAYS, 7pm Discussion meeting: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Asheville Burn Survivor Support Group • 3rd SATURDAYS, 1-3pm - Open discussions related to all aspects of recovery from burn trauma, whether recent or a long time ago. Meets at Earth Fare South eating area, 1856 Hendersonville Road.

Info: 298-5515 or www.wncburnsurvivor.com.

Asheville Radical Mental Health Collective • MONDAYS, 7-9pm - Mutual aid in a world gone mad.

Peer support, resources and discussion. At the YWCA, 185 South French Broad Ave. The Collective supports selfdetermination and choice for mental health and wellness.

Everyone is welcome. Info: radmadasheville@theicarusproject.net.

Beauty Through Cancer Provides programs and services for breast cancer patients and survivors in the WNC area. Located at 131 McDowell St., Suite 202, Asheville. Info: 252-8558 or info@beautythroughcancer. org.

• 4th MONDAYS, 5:156:30pm - Women’s cancer support group for individuals going through any type of cancer treatment or recovery.

This uplifting group with cover many diverse subjects.

Cancer patients, survivors and caregivers are welcome.

Bipolar and Depression Support Group • WEDNESDAYS, 6:308:30pm - Magnetic Minds meets at Mountain House, 225 E. Chestnut St., Asheville.

Peer support, empowerment, recovery and advocacy. Info: 318-9179.

C.L.O.S.E.R. Gay Support Group • TUESDAYS, 7-9pm Community Liason of Support Education and Reform.

Weekly support group for GLBT community. Weekly meetings with varying subject matter, visiting guest speakers and social activities. Meets

at the Cathedral of All Souls Episcopal Church meeting room. Info: 776-0109.

Cancer Support Group for Caregivers • MONDAYS, 11am-Noon - Meetings at Jubilee, 46 Wall St., Asheville. Emotional support for family members of people experiencing cancer. Facilitated by Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Info: 299-0394.

Cancer Support Group for Women • MONDAYS, 1:30-3pm - Meetings at Biltmore United Methodist Church. Emotional support for women experiencing cancer. Facilitated

by Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Info: 299-0394.

DivorceCare • WEDNESDAYS (through 4/15), 6:15-7:30pm - A free seminar and support group for people who are separated or divorced. Each week a nationally recognized expert on divorce and recovery topics is heard. Meets at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 201 Mount Carmel Road, Asheville.

Eating Disorders Individuals are welcome to come to one or all of the support group meetings. Info: 337-4685 or www.thecenternc.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7-8pm - Support group for adults at T.H.E. Center for Disordered Eating, 297 Haywood St. Focus is on positive peer support, coping skills and recovery tools. Led by licensed professionals. Free.

Grief Recovery Seminar/ Support Group Meets at First United Methodist Church, 204 Sixth Ave. W. Hendersonville.

GriefShare is a special support group for people grieving the death of someone close. The video seminar features recognized experts on grief recovery topics. Info: 694-3621 or www.hvlfumc.org.

• 2nd & 4th TUESDAYS, 23:30pm - Meeting.

Hep C Hope of WNC Group meetings and educational sessions to help those with Hepatitis C learn the skills necessary to cope with their illness, and to lend support through every phase of the disease, including liver transplantation. Info: 254-0590 or www.hepchope.org.

• 4th MONDAYS, 6pm Meetings are held at MAHEC, 501 Biltmore Ave. There will be an open forum to discuss Hepatitis C. Everyone is welcome.

Narcotics Anonymous A fellowship of recovering addicts that can help those afflicted get clean and stay clean through a 12-step pro-

gram. The group focuses on recovering from the disease of addiction rather than any particular drug. For WNC NA meeting schedules and info: www.wncana.net. Helpline: (866) 925-2148.

• DAILY - Please call for location details.

National Alliance on Mental Illness - Western Carolina Dedicated to improving the lives of persons with severe mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, clinical depression, OCD, PTSD and anxiety disorders.

Free Connection Recovery Support Groups. Info: 5057353.

• 2nd & 4th MONDAYS, 11am - Group meets at 356 Biltmore Ave., Suite 298.

Overcomers Recovery Support Group • TUESDAYS, 7-8pm - A Christian-based 12-step recovery program. Provides a spiritual plan of recovery for people struggling with life-controlling problems such as alcohol, drugs, overeating, pornography, codependency, enabling. All are welcome.

Info: rchovey@sos.spc-asheville.org.

Overeaters Anonymous A fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience, strength and hope, are recovering from compulsive overeating. This 12-step program welcomes everyone who wants to stop eating compulsively. Meetings are one hour unless noted.

• THURSDAYS, Noon - Asheville: Biltmore United Methodist Church, 376 Hendersonville Rd. (S. 25 at Yorkshire). Info: 298-1899.

• SATURDAYS, 9:30am - Black Mountain: Carver Parks & Recreation Center, 101 Carver Ave. off Blue Ridge Road. Open relapse and recovery mtg. Info: 686-8131.

• MONDAYS, 6:30pm - Hendersonville: Balfour United Meth. Church, 2567 Asheville Hwy. (Hwy. 25).

Open mtg. Info: 1-800-5804761.

• MONDAYS, 6pm Asheville: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Open mtg. Info: 2778185.

• TUESDAYS, 10:30am-Noon - Asheville: Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. at Ottari. Open BBSS mtg. Info: 280-2213.

S-Anon For those affected by someone else’s sexual behavior.

Info: 545-4287 or 606-6803.

• WEEKLY - Three meetings are available per week.

S-Anon Meetings S-Anon is a 12-step recovery program for partners, family and friends of sexaholics. We

36 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

share our experience, strength and hope to help solve our common problems. Meetings held weekly in Asheville, Fletcher and Waynesville. Call confidential voice mail for information: 258-5117.

• WEEKLY - Meetings.

Sexaholics Anonymous SA is a 12-step fellowship of men and women recovering from compulsive patterns of lust, romance, destructive relationships, sexual thoughts or sexual behavior. Call confidential voice mail 681-9250 or e-mail saasheville@gmail. com. Info: www.orgsites. com/nc/saasheville/.

• DAILY - Asheville meetings.

SMART Recovery • THURSDAYS, 6-7pm - Self-Management and Recovery Training, a free, selfempowering, science-based mutual help group for abstaining from any substance or activity addiction, meets at Grace Episcopal Church on Merrimon Ave. Donations requested. Info: www.smartrecovery.org.

Support Groups Sessions are led by Charlene Galvin, a board certified Chaplain. Love offering. Info: 329-3187 or chargalvin@ hotmail.com.

• THURSDAYS, 10-11:30am - Living with Life Limiting Illness —- 1:30-3pm Caregivers Support Group.

WNC Brain Tumor Support Welcomes family as well as the newly diagnosed and longer-term survivors. Info: 691-2559 or www.wncbraintumor.org.

• TH (3/18), 6:15pm Monthly meeting at MAHEC on Biltmore Ave., at the edge of the Mission Hospital complex. Refreshments and socializing, followed by speaker Aundry Freeman from Pisgah Legal Services, who will discuss disability benefits, SSI, Medicaid.

• 3rd THURSDAYS, 6:158pm - Group meets at MAHEC, 501 Biltmore Ave., at the edge of the Mission Hospitals campus.

Workaholic Anonymous (WA) Meetings Feeling rushed? Can’t get it all done? WA slogan: “Slow is beautiful and powerful. I move glacially.” Info: 2546484. Or try conference call meetings: Get times and numbers at www.workaholics-anonymous.org/page. php?page=_meetings.

• TUESDAYS, 5:30-6:30pm - Asheville WA meeting at First Presbyterian Church, 40 Church St.

Helplines For Xpress’ list of helplines, visit www.mountainx.com/ events/category/helplines.

Sports Groups & Activities Asheville Aikikai Info: www.aikidonc.org or 258-1330.

• WEEKLY - Women and men (ages 14 and up) are invited for advanced and beginning practice. Beginners are welcome anytime. $5. At 939 Riverside Drive.

• TUESDAY & FRIDAYS, 5:30-6:15pm - Aikido class for children ages 8-14. $5.

Asheville Kendo Club • FRIDAYS, 6-9pm Dedicated to bringing quality Kendo to the Asheville area.

Kendo, the Japanese “Way of the Sword,” develops a person’s mind, posture and spirit through the principles of Japanese fencing. Kendo is not self-defense. Info: ashevillekendo@gmail.com.

Asheville Masters Swimming Competitive, fitness and triathlon swimmers welcome. Info: www.ashevillemasters.com • MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 5:45-7:15am Practice at Asheville School.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 5:45-7:15am & SATURDAYS, 7-9am - Coached practices at Warren Wilson College.

Bowling Tournament Support Special Olympics Buncombe County athletes at the Bowling Tournament. Held at A.M.F. Star Lanes, 491 Kenilworth Road. $20/$100 for a team of five. To sign up: www.buncombecounty. org/parks.

• SA (3/20), 11am-2pm - Family games —- 5-8pm Adult games. All proceeds will benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Buncombe County.

Disc Golf Check the kiosk at Richmond Hill Park for events and nearby tournaments. Info: 680-9626 or www.wncdiscgolf.com.

• TUESDAYS, 3pm - Doubles at Richmond Hill Park.

Random draw for partners.

Midnight Basketball at the YMCA • SATURDAYS (through 4/3), 11pm-1am - Midnight Basketball for ages 16-20 at the YMCA, 30 Woodfin St. in downtown Asheville. $5. Info: 210-9622‚Äé Pickleball It’s like playing ping pong on a tennis court. For all ages. $1 per session. Paddles and balls are provided. Info: 350-2058.

• MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 9-11am - Meets at Stephens-Lee Rec Center, 30 George Washington Carver

St. (take S. Charlotte to Max St.).

Skateboarders Needed for Design Ideas • TH (3/18), 7pm - A design meeting, open to all local skate boarders, will be held at Waynesville Recreation Center. Join California’s Spohn Ranchand and contribute ideas for the new Waynesville Skate Park. Info: 456-2030 or recdirector@townofwaynesville.org.

Sports at UNCA Unless otherwise noted, all events are free and open to the public. Info: 251-6459.

• FR (3/19), 1pm - UNCA Men’s and Women’s Tennis vs. Campbell at the Crowne Plaza Tennis Center.

• SU (3/21), 1pm - UNCA Men’s and Women’s Tennis vs. Presbyterian at the Crowne Plaza Tennis Center.

• TU (3/23), 3pm - UNCA Baseball vs. Western Carolina at Greenwood Field. $5.

• WE (3/24), 2pm - UNCA Baseball vs. N.C. Central, at Greenwood Field. $5 —UNCA Women’s Tennis vs.

Gardner-Webb at the Crowne Plaza Tennis Center.

Tai Chi for Seniors (all welcome) • WEDNESDAYS, Noon - A gentle class for beginners promoting balance, strength, flexibility and calm. Basic practices, no complex movements. Upstairs at the French Broad Co-op, 90 Biltmore Ave., Asheville. $10. Info: 645-9579.

Women’s Indoor Trainer Sessions • MONDAYS, 6:15pm - Youngblood’s Trainer Sessions. Bring your own trainer; no roller, please. A few indoor trainers will be available for loan/rent ($10). Begin your winter conditioning program.

Info: amy@golightlydesigns. com or tdrews@trainright. com.

Kids New Waldorf Kindergarten (pd.) Enrolling children for this fall. Three-day program (MWF), 9am to 1pm. Call Susanne, 828-252-1924 for more details.

At The Health Adventure Free first Wed. of every month from 3-5pm. Hours: Tues.Sat., 10am-5pm & Sun., 1-5pm. $8.50 adults/$7.50 students & seniors/$6 kids 211. Program info or to RSVP: 254-6373, ext. 324. Info: www.thehealthadventure.org.

• THURSDAYS, 10:3011:30am - Preschool Play Date. Interactive fun just for preschoolers led by museum facilitators. Free with admission.

• SATURDAYS, 1-2pm - Experiment with science during Super Science Saturdays.

Featuring hands-on activities led by museum facilitators, the programs are fun for all ages.

Free with admission.

• 2nd & 4th MONDAYS, 45pm - “My Mom Is Having a Baby.” Help your child prepare to be an older brother or sister with this class. Learn what to expect, how to hold the new baby, and make a special present to hang over the crib.

Free with admission.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• WEDNESDAYS, 3-4pm Video game group for youth.

• THURSDAYS, 3-4pm Youth sports group.

• FRIDAYS, 3-5:30pm - Cooking groups for youth and teens.

• MONDAYS, 3-5:30pm - Music groups for youth and teens.

• TUESDAYS, 3-5:30pm - Hiking groups for youth and teens.

Celebration Singers of Asheville Community children’s chorus for ages 7-14. For audition/ performance info: 230-5778 or www.singasheville.org.

• THURSDAYS, 6:30-7:45pm - Children’s chorus rehearsal at First Congregational Church, 20 Oak St., downtown Asheville.

Events for Kids at Spellbound Spellbound Children’s Bookshop is located at 19 Wall St., in downtown Asheville. Info: 232-2228 or www.spellboundchildrensbookshop.com.

• TUESDAYS, 10:30am - Story time for ages 3-5 —- 3:30pm - Story time for ages 5-7.

Hands On! Gallery This children’s gallery is located at 318 North Main St. in Hendersonville. Hours: Tues.Fri., 10am-5pm. Admission is $5, with discounts available on certain days. Info: 6978333 or www.handsonwnc. org.

• WE (3/17) - Come in for St. Patrick’s Day crafts and scavenger hunt.

• TH (3/18), 10:30-11:30am - FENCE presents “Color Me Green,” an exploration in plants.

• FR (3/19) - Park Ridge and Hands On! present the opening of the new exhibit The Baby Place.

• TU (3/23), 10:30am - Music and Movement with

Jenny Arch. Come sing along, groove, and play some music.

Haywood County Public Library System The main branch is located at 678 S. Haywood St., Waynesville. The county system includes branches in Canton, Maggie Valley, Fines Creek and Cruso. Info: 452-5169 or www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 11am - Family story time for children of all ages. Read books, sing songs, learn finger plays and more.

Joyful Noise Student Showcase • SU (3/21), 2:30-4pm - A showcase of what Joyful Noise has to offer, from chamber music to clogging, from jazz to fiddle tunes. At the Grey Eagle Music Hall, 185 Clingman Ave., Asheville.

Free. Info: www.joyfulnoisecenter.org.

N.C. Arboretum Events for Kids Info: 665-2492, jmarchal@ ncarboretum.org or www. ncarboretum.org.

• Through SU (5/9) - The Scoop on Poop, an interactive zoological exhibit based on the book by science writer Dr. Wayne Lynch, on display at the Baker Exhibit Center. $3 adults/$2 for children ages 5-18.

• TU (3/23), 10-11am - Wee Naturalists: “Nest Builders.”

The lesson will include ageappropriate activities for ages 2-5, such as nature walks, garden exploration, stories, crafts and visits from our classroom animals. $6 —1-3:30pm - Eco Explorers: Nature-based learning for homeschoolers. Explore the streams, woodlands and gardens of the Arboretum. Open to children ages 7-12. Children ages 5 and 6 may attend, but a parent or guardian must accompany them. $12.

Smith-McDowell House Museum Period rooms grace this antebellum house on the campus of A-B Tech Community College, 283 Victoria Rd., Asheville. Info: 253-9231 or education@wnchistory.org.

• SA (3/27) - Children ages 3 and up are invited to an Easter Egg Hunt. $5 children/Free for adults.

Spirituality 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. (828) 258-3229.

A Barbara Marciniak Channeling Event

freewillastrology ARIES (March 21-April 19) From what I can tell, your excursion to Fake Paradise didn’t exact too serious a toll. The accidental detour may have seemed inopportune in the moment, but you know what? I think it slowed you down enough to keep you from doing something rash that you would have regretted later. And are you really sorry you were robbed of your cherished illusions?

In the long run, I think it was for the best. As for the scratches on your nose from when you stuck it into business you weren’t “supposed” to: They’re a small price to pay for the piquant lesson you got in how not to live.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Some people are here on the planet to find success, while others are here to find themselves.

In the big scheme of things, I’m not sure which category you fit into, Taurus. But I’m pretty sure that for the next few weeks you’ll be best served by acting as if you’re the latter. Even if you think you’ve found yourself pretty completely in the past, it’s time to go searching again: There are new secrets to be discovered, in large part because you’re not who you used to be. So for now at least, I encourage you to give your worldly ambitions a bit of a rest as you intensify your self-explorations.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Being a paragon of moral behavior can be fun and rewarding. It’s amazing how many interesting people want to play with me just because they think I’m so #%&@ high-minded.

But I’ve got to confess that my commitment to discipline and righteousness is sometimes at odds with my rebellious itch to give you mischievous nudges and outrageous challenges.

Like right now, the conscientious teacher in me might prefer to advise you to keep a lid on debauchery, voracity, excess, uproar, slapstick, wise-cracking, fireworks, and limitpushing. But the rabble-rousing agitator in me feels obligated to inform you that at no other time in 2010 will the karmic price be lower for engaging in such pursuits.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

It’s time for you to stop specializing in furtive glimpses and start indulging in brazen gazes. You’re ready to phase out your role as a peripheral influence and see if you can be more of a high-intensity instigator and organizer. Yes, Cancerian, you’ve earned the right to claim more credibility and clout — to leave your tentative position outside the magic circle and head in the direction of the sweet hot spot.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

“Nature seems to exult in abounding radicality, extremism, anarchy,” wrote Annie Dillard in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. “If we were to judge nature by its common sense or likelihood, we wouldn’t believe the world existed. In nature, improbabilities are the one stock in trade. The

whole creation is one lunatic fringe . . . No claims of any and all revelations could be so far-fetched as a single giraffe.” (Dillard’s entire passage is here: http://bit.ly/TinkerCreek.)

Reading this passage is a good way for you to prepare for the immediate future, Leo. Why? Because you’ll soon be invited to commune with outlandish glory. You’ll be exposed to stories that burst from the heart of creation.

You’ll be prodded to respond to marvelous blips with marvelous blips of your own. But here’s the catch: It may all remain invisible to you if you’re blinded by the false belief that you live a boring, ordinary life.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

The storm is your friend right now, Virgo.

So are the deep, dark night and the last place you’d ever think of visiting and the most important thing you’ve forgotten about. So be more willing than usual to marinate in the mysteries — not with logical ferocity but with cagey curiosity. The areas of life that are most crucial for you to deal with can’t be fully understood using the concepts your rational mind favors. The feelings that will be most useful for you to explore are unlike those you’re familiar with.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Here’s your mantra for the coming week: “I disappear my fear. I resurrect my audacity.” Say it and sing it and murmur it at least 100 times a day. Let it flow out of you after you’ve awoken each morning and are still lying in bed. Let it be the last sound on your lips as you drop off to sleep. Have fun with it. Dip into your imagination to come up with different ways to let it fly — say it as your favorite cartoon character might say it, like a person with a Swedish accent, like your inner teenager, like a parrot, like a grinning sage. “I disappear my fear. I resurrect my audacity. I disappear my fear. I resurrect my audacity.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Have you ever heard about how some allnight convenience stores blast loud classical music out into the parking lot in order to discourage drug dealers from loitering? In the coming days, use that principle whenever you need to drive home a point or make a strong impression. Your aggressive expressions will be more effective if you take the darkness and anger out of them, and instead fill them up with forceful grace and propulsive compassion.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

The Hebrew word chalom means “dream.” In his book Healing Dreams, Marc Ian Barasch notes that it’s derived from the verb “to be made healthy and strong.” Linguist Joseph Jastrow says that chalom is related to the Hebrew word hachlama, which means “recovery, recuperation.” Extrapolating from these poetic hints and riffing on your astrological omens, I’ve got a prescription for you to

Windhorse Zen Community

consider: To build your vitality in the coming weeks, feed your dreams. And I mean “dreams” in both the sense of the nocturnal adventures you have while you’re sleeping and the sweeping daytime visions of what you’d like to become.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

I just found out the American shipping company UPS has legally trademarked the color brown. The grass-roots activist in me is incredulous and appalled. But the poet in me doesn’t really care; it’s fine if UPS owns drab, prosaic brown. I’ve still got mahogany at my command, as well as tawny, sepia, taupe, burnt umber, tan, cinnamon, walnut, and henna. That’s especially important for this horoscope, Capricorn, because I’m advising you to be very down to earth, be willing to get your hands dirty, and even play in the muck if necessary in order to take good care of the basics. But don’t do any of that in a boring, humdrum “brown” way. Do it exotically and imaginatively, like mahogany, tawny, sepia, taupe, burnt umber, tan, cinnamon, walnut, and henna.

Eternal Spring - Waking Up To Our True Nature Saturday, March 27 • 9:45-1:30 pm A workshop on Zen teachings and practice Dharma Teachers: Sunya Kjolhede and Lawson Sachter Early registration and Students - $25.00 $35.00 at the door • Vegetarian lunch included For registration and information call 828-645-8001 or register online at www.windhorsezen.org 580 Panther Branch Road • Alexander, NC 28701 Weaverville area, 20 minutes from downtown Asheville

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You are hereby excused from having to know a single nuance about the inside story of Angelina Jolie’s secret love tryst with Lady Gaga, or the addictions of conspiracy theorists who lose huge sums of money gambling on the end of the world, or the agony that millionaires suffer from having to support social services with their taxes. In fact, it’s a good time to empty your mind of extraneous, trivial, and useless facts so that you can clear vast new spaces for more pressing data, like how you can upgrade your communication skills, why you should do some upkeep on your close alliances, and what you might do to streamline your social life.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

In my astrological opinion, you don’t need anything that shrinks you or deflates you or tames you. Influences that pinch your imagination should be taboo, as should anything that squashes your hope or crimps your life force. To make proper use of the vibrations circulating in your vicinity, Pisces, you should gravitate toward situations that pump up your insouciance and energize your whimsy and incite you to express the most benevolent wickedness you can imagine. You’ve got a mandate to fatten up your soul so it can contain a vaster sense of wonder and a more daring brand of innocence.

Homework: I’ve got two favors to ask of you. No pressure! I’ll still love you if you can’t help. Go here for more info: http://bit. ly/TwoFavors © Copyright 2010 Rob Brezsny

107 N. Caldwell St. • Brevard, NC

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 37

(pd.) April 9,10 (FridaySaturday). Barbara channels the Pleiadians who share their perspectives about our changing world. Bring your questions! • Lecture/channeling, Friday, 7pm-10:30pm, $35. • Workshop/channeling, Saturday, 10:30am-6pm, $95.

• Cash or money order only.

• Ramada River Ridge Hotel, 800 Fairview Road, Asheville.

• For reservations/information: (828) 298-6300 or ashevilleclass@yahoo.com Certification Training • Reiki I • This Sunday (pd.) March 21, 11am-5pm.

Learn Japanese healing techniques for self-healing and healing others, the history of Reiki, The Major Chakras and associations, Reiki hand positions, Reiki Meditation and Empowerment. • Receive Level I Attunement and Reiki I Certification and Manual.

• Reiki can be beneficial to spiritually minded people, regardless of religious affiliation. Asheville. • Register early for discount, (828) 367-0434. www.AshevilleReiki.com Emotional Wisdom 2010 (pd.) Hay House Astrologer Debra Silverman, M.A..

March 24, 2010 - 7:00PM. Crystal Visions. $15, Debra Silverman, M.A. presents unique connection between your behavior and the natural elements: Earth, Air, Water, Fire.

Tuesday Afternoons • Study • Meditation • Great Tree Zen Temple (pd.) Study: 3:30pm • Meditation: 5:30pm. 679 Lower Flat Creek Road, Alexander. Love offering. More information: 645-2085 or www.greattreetemple.org Actively Eliminating Obstacles to Awakening • Alternate WEDNESDAYS, 7:30pm - An interactive, playful and heart-expanding class with spiritual teacher Solomon. Learn to actively release past blocks and more.

An original exploration into consciousness. At Lighten Up Yoga, 60 Biltmore Ave. First class free/$10 thereafter. Info: (530) 852-7836 or (866) 573-1870.

All Saints Anglican Church Located at 15 McDowell Road, Mills River. The 1928 Book of Common Prayer is used. Info: 891-7216.

• SUNDAYS, 8:30am - Holy Eucharist —- 9:45am Christian Education —- 11am - Holy Eucharist. Call for information on other weekly services.

Asheville Center for Transcendental Meditation/An Evening of Knowledge Transcend the busy, active mind—effortlessly—for peace, bliss and full awaken-

ing of creative intelligence.

The most effective, extensively researched meditation.

Revitalizes mind/body, relieves worry and anxiety, improves brain functioning. Free Introduction. Info: 254-4350 or www.meditationasheville. org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7:158:15pm - Introductory Talk: Access your deepest intelligence; compare meditation techniques; explore higher states of consciousness and total brain functioning; and learn about Scientific findings on TM’s health benefits. Held at 165 E. Chestnut St. Asheville Jewish Meditation and Chanting Circle • SU (3/21), 1:15-3:15pm Following the Awakened Heart Project’s approach to Jewish meditation, the circle desires to cultivate an awareness of the Divine Presence through sitting and walking meditation, chanting and the study of Jewish and other texts. At Congregation Beth Israel, 229 Murdock Ave. Asheville Meditation Center Classes are held at the Greenlife Community Center, 90 Merrimon Ave., unless otherwise noted. Info: 505-2300 or www.meditateasheville.org.

• THURSDAYS, 6:30-7:30pm - Meditation Circle. Donations accepted.

Avalon Grove Nontraditional Celtic Christian worship services to honor the ancient Celtic holidays.

Participants are welcome to bring vegetarian food to share after the service. Info: 6452674 or www.avalongrove. net.

• SA (3/20), 3-4pm - Celtic Christian Ostara (Spring Equinox) service.

Awakening Practices Study the works of Eckhart Tolle and put words into action through meditation and discussion. Info: Trey@ QueDox.com.

• 2nd & 4th THURSDAYS, 7-9pm - Meets at the EnkaCandler Library meeting room.

Bruno Groening Circle of Friends Help and healing the spiritual way through the teachings of Bruno Groening. Participants are asked to attend an introduction before coming to the regular community hour.

Info: 393-0630 or ehlersk@ aol.com.

• TU (3/23), 7-8:30pm - Meet at North Asheville Library, 1030 Merrimon Ave. Love offering.

Buddhist Meditation and Discussion Meets in the space above the French Broad Food Co-op.

March’s theme: “Medicine for the Heart.” Suggested donation: $8/$4 students &

seniors. Info: 779-5502 or www.meditation-in-northcarolina.org.

• WE (3/17), 7:15pm “Transforming Illness.”

• WE (3/24), 7:15pm - “Letting Go of the Painful Past.”

Chabad Asheville Jewish Asheville and WNC Chabad Lubavitch Center for Jewish Life, located at 660 Merrimon Ave. Info: www. chabadasheville.org.

• SU (3/21), 1:15pm - Bake your own Matzah, Passover arts and crafts, video theatre. All children and adults welcome. Open to the entire community. Join Chabad at the Model Matzah Bakery. $5/child (ages 4-13).

• TU (3/23), 7-9pm Asheville Jewish Women’s Circle: “The Soul of the Seder,” a pre-Passover evening. Discuss the significance of Passover and the rituals and reasons behind it. Create a beautiful Passover serving platter. Taste Passover foods sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Cloud Cottage Sangha This branch of the World Community of Mindful Living meets at 219 Old Toll Circle in Black Mountain, to practice seated meditation and mindfulness training. All events by donation. Info: 669-0920, cloudcottage@bellsouth.net or www.cloudcottage.org.

• 3rd SUNDAYS, 8am - Japanese-style Zen service followed by informal tea.

Coalition of Earth Religions Events Info: 230-5069 or www. ceres-wnc.org.

• 4th WEDNESDAYS - Meeting at the Earth Fare Community Room. Call for details.

Compassionate Communication Practice Group Learn ways to create understanding and clarity in your relationships, work, and community by practicing compassionate communication.

Group uses a model developed by Marshall Rosenberg in his book Nonviolent Communication, A Language of Life. Free. Info: 252-0538 or www.ashevilleccc.com.

• 2nd & 4th THURSDAYS, 5-6:15pm - Practice group for newcomers and experienced practitioners.

Ethical Society of Asheville A humanistic, religious and educational movement inspired by the ideal that the supreme aim of human life is working to create a more humane society. Meetings are held at the Botanical Garden’s Visitors Center, 151 W. T. Weaver Blvd. All are welcome.

Info: 687-7759 or www. aeu.org.

38 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

• SU (3/21), 2-3:30pm - “Women in Ethical Culture” will be presented by Joy McConnell. There will be a discussion period following the presentation and time for informal conversation.

Global Heart Meditation • 3rd FRIDAYS, 7-9pm - Prayer is the single most powerful force in the Universe.

Join with others to collectively radiate our coherent heart energy to support global consciousness of Oneness.

At CSLAsheville, 2 Science of Mind Way. Love offering. Info: 231-7638 or 242-3133.

Hare Krsna Sunday Feast Meets above the French Broad Food Co-op, 90 Biltmore Ave. Info: www.highthinkingsimpleliving.org or 506-2987.

• Select SUNDAYS, 6-8pm - An evening of bhajans, class on the Bhagavad-Gita and a vegetarian feast. Everyone welcome. Refer to the Web site or call for dates.

Highland Wild Coven Open Court meetings for Wiccans now open.

Combines traditional wisdom with contemporary insights and exploration. Walk the Hidden Path and honor Divinity within and without.

Info: 582-4759 or www.highlandwilde.org.

• MONTHLY - Meets on the Fridays closest to the New Moon.

Introduction to Vipassana Meditation • TH (3/18), 7-9pm - A brief introduction to Vipassana meditation, as taught by S.N. Goenka, will be offered at the West Asheville Library, Community Room. From 7-8pm, screening of a documentary on Vipassana. From 8-9pm, Q&A. Free. Info: www. patapa.dhamma.org.

Land of the Sky United Church of Christ Located at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 15 Overbrook Place, in East Asheville.

• SUNDAYS, 9:15am Women-led, justice-focused, family-friendly, and open to all. Worship with Land of the Sky UCC. An unconditional church.

Lent Offerings • THURSDAYS (through 3/25), 7pm - “What Moves You? The Embodiment of Liturgy” at the Cathedral of All Souls, 9 Swan St., Biltmore Village. Free. Info: 274-2681.

Mindfulness Meditation Class Explore the miracle of healing into life through deepened stillness and presence. With consciousness teacher and columnist Bill Walz. Info: 2583241 or www.billwalz.com.

• MONDAYS, 7-8pm Meditation class with lesson

and discussions in contemporary Zen living. At the Asheville Friends Meeting House at 227 Edgewood Ave. (off Merrimon Ave.). Donation.

Mother Grove Events Info: 230-5069, info@ mothergroveavl.org or www. mothergroveavl.org.

• SA (3/20), 7pm - A ritual in celebration of the spring equinox will be held in the parish hall of the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. Free, but a love offering for Temple programs will be accepted, as well as food donations for Mother’s Cornucopia Project.

• MONDAYS - Book discussion group, facilitated by Antiga, on the book The Creation of Patriarchy by Gerda Lemer. Info: 285-9927.

Mountain Zen Practice Center Exploring the ‘how’ of moment by moment peace, joy and freedom through the practice of Conscious Compassionate Awareness. Info and orientation times: www.mountainzen. org or 450-3621.

• TUESDAYS, 7-8:30pm Meditation and discussion.

Mystic Gatherings Share in the community of those who are governed both by logic and observing signs around them: gut, spirit, intuition or whatever That is. Bring your stories and experiences.

Gatherings are dynamic and diverse and range from topics such as changes in our society to defining moments in life and much more. Info: 206-2009.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm - Meeting.

Psychic Development Class • 2nd & 4th WEDNESDAYS, 7-8:30pm - Develop your intuition in a stress-free environment. Everyone will have an opportunity to read and to be read. Love donation accepted.

Info: 255-8304.

Shambhala Meditation Center of Asheville The center offers free meditation instruction following ancient principles at 19 Westwood Place in W. Asheville. Donations accepted. Info: www.shambhala.org/center/asheville, ShambhalaAshvl@gmail.com or 490-4587.

• THURSDAYS, 6-6:45pm & SUNDAYS, 10am-Noon - Public meditation.

Sojourner Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) A congregation in formation.

The goal is provide a caring, non-threatening environment for the exploration of Christian spirituality. Info: www.sojournerchurch.org.

• SUNDAYS, 9:30am - Worship —- 10:30am - Fellowship. Lower floor of Morningside Baptist Church,

14 Mineral Springs Road, Asheville.

Sri Sri Sri Shivabalayogi Meditation Group Receive initiation into Sri Swamiji’s one-hour meditation technique. One-hour of silent meditation followed by Bhajans (devotional singing).

Fairview location directions: 299-3246. Info: www.shivabalamahayogi.com.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm “Silent Meditation.” Free.

Transmission Meditation Group Join in this meditation group for personal and spiritual growth, as well as the healing and transformation of the planet. Info: 318-8547.

• SUNDAYS, 2pm Meditation.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Asheville Located at the corner of Charlotte St. & Edwin Pl. Info: 254-6001 or www.uuasheville.org.

• SUNDAYS, 9:15am & 11:15am - Services and Children’s Programs.

Unity Cafe Looking for a change from the usual Sunday service?

Spiritual conversation and sharing, music, meditation, coffee and pastry. Info: 6450514, 676-6070 or unitycafe. org.

• 1st, 3rd & 5th SUNDAYS, 10am-Noon - Greenlife Grocery Community Center, 90 Merrimon Ave. Unity Center Events Celebrate joyful, mindful living in a church with heart.

Contemporary music by Lytingale and The Unitic Band.

Located at 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Rd. Info: 684-3798, 891-8700 or www.unitync. net.

• FR (3/19), 7pm - The annual auction and benefit concert will be held. There will be a silent and regular auction featuring massage sessions, furniture and more. Music will be performed by the Unitic Band & Friends. Admission is free.

• SU (3/21), 12:45pm - Friendship Potluck. Please bring a dish to share.

• TU (3/23), 7pm - Truth On Tap: Join Chad O’Shea at the Lexington Avenue Brewery for spiritual conversation.

• WE (3/24), 7pm - “Music and Meditation Service,” with Rev. Chad O’Shea and Lytingale. Love offering.

Waynesville Creative Thought Center Located at 741 S. Haywood St., Waynesville. Info: 4569697, waynesvilleCTC@aol. com or www.mountainshops. com/ctc.

• THURSDAYS, 5:30-6:30pm - Zumba fitness classes with Ann Parsons. Love offering.

• MONDAYS & THURSDAYS, Noon-1pm - Qi Gong, Yoga and Pilates with Kim May. Love offering.

• TUESDAYS, 2-3:30pm & WEDNESDAYS, 6-7:30pm - Chakra-balancing meditation and oneness blessings with Margie Brockmiller and Donna Webster. Love offering.

Windhorse Zen Community Meditation, Dharma talks, private instruction available Tuesday and Thursday evenings, residential training.

Teachers: Lawson Sachter and Sunya Kjolhede. Main center: 580 Panther Branch, Alexander. City center: 12 Von Ruck Court. Call for orientation. Info: 645-8001 or www. windhorsezen.org.

• SUNDAYS, 9:30-11am - Meditation, chanting and a Dharma talk.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 7-9pm - Meditation and chanting.

• FRIDAYS, 5:30-7:15pm Meditation and chanting at the City Center.

Womyn in Ceremony Co-create a sacred circle of women where we will connect, share, dream and experience inner awarenesses and empowerment. Each Circle “stands alone.” Meets 12 miles NW of Asheville.

By donation. Info: www.

RitesofPassageCouncil. com/theresa.

• SUNDAYS, 3:45-6pm - Gathering.

Xuanfa Dharma Center of Asheville • TUESDAYS, 7pm - Practice followed by a short DVD screening. Free. Call for directions: 255-4741.

Zen Center of Asheville A Soto Zen Temple in downtown Asheville offering zazen instruction, weekly lectures and a regular sitting schedule.

Info: www.zcasheville.org.

• MONDAYS through SATURDAYS - Sittings in the mornings. Also, on Wed. evenings before lecture.

Art Gallery Exhibits & Openings Art at UNCA Art exhibits and events at the university are free, unless otherwise noted.

• FR (3/19) - An opening reception for Familiarity and Function, a mixed-media exhibition by UNCA senior Megan Seifried, will be held in S. Tucker Cooke Gallery, first floor of Owen Hall.

Art League of Henderson County The ALHC meets and shows exhibits at the Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Hwy. (25N) in downtown

Hendersonville. Info: 6987868 or www.artleague.net.

• Through FR (4/9) Polyrhythms, an exhibit of mixed-media art by Costanza Knight, will be on display in the Grace Etheredge Room.

Art on Depot 250 Depot St., Waynesville.

Info: 246-0218 or www. artondepot.com.

• Through FR (4/30) - An exhibition of paintings by Patrick Schneider will be on display.

Arts Council of Henderson County D. Samuel Neill Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 1-5pm and Sat., 14pm. Located at 538 N. Main St., 2nd Floor, Hendersonville.

Info: 693-8504 or www. acofhc.org.

• Through SA (3/27) - The Art of Our Children, an exhibition featuring the work of elementary school children, will be on display.

• Through SA (5/1) - Mentors & Students will be on display.

• Through SA (3/27) - The Elementary Students Exhibition will be on display in the Neill Gallery —- Work by Hamadi Ben Saad of Tunisia will be on display in the reception area.

Asheville Art Museum Located on Pack Square in downtown Asheville. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm and Sun., 1-5pm. Admission: $8/$7 students and seniors/ Free for kids under 4. Free first Wednesdays from 3-5pm.

Info: 253-3227 or www. ashevilleart.org.

• Through SU (7/11) - Nouns: Children’s Book Artists Look at People, Places and Things.

• Through SU (5/9) - Lorna Blaine Halper: The Space Between will be on display in Holden Community Gallery.

• Through SU (7/18) - Limners to Facebook: Portraiture from the 19th to the 21st Century.

Asheville Gallery of Art A co-op gallery representing 29 regional artists located at 16 College St. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm. Info: 251-5796 or www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com.

• Through WE (3/31) - Reflections: Paintings Then and Now, featuring paintings

by Cecil Clemons.

Black Mountain Center for the Arts Located in the renovated Old City Hall at 225 West State St. in Black Mountain.

Gallery Hours: Mon.-Wed. & Fri., 10am-5pm (closed Sat. during winter months).

Info: 669-0930 or www.

BlackMountainArts.org.

• SU (3/21), 2-4pm - Open House for Black Mountain Center for the Arts Clay Studio, celebrating its 2-year anniver-

newsoftheweird Lead story

Anthropomorphizing Little Muffy: A February St. Petersburg Times report found several local people who regularly cook gourmet meals for their dogs and who revealed their dogs’ (or maybe just their) favorite recipes. “Veggie Cookies for Dogs,” for example, requires whole-wheat flour, dried basil, dried cilantro, dried oregano, chopped carrot, green beans, tomato paste, canola oil and garlic. Asked one chef: Why feed “man’s best friend” what you wouldn’t eat yourself?

Compelling explanations

• At first, the Rev. Fred Armfield’s arrest for patronizing a prostitute in Greenwood, S.C., in January seemed straightforward, as Armfield allegedly confessed that he’d bargained Melinda “Truck Stop” Robinson down from $10 to $5 for oral sex. Several days later, however, Armfield formally disputed the arrest, calling himself a “descendant of the original Moro-Pithecus Disoch, Kenyapithecus and Afro Pithecus,” a “living flesh-and-blood being with sovereign status” who, based on his character and community standing, shouldn’t be prosecuted. He also claimed that paying “Truck Stop” with Federal Reserve notes didn’t legally constitute a purchase, since such notes are not lawful money.

• Lame: (1) When police in Brisbane, Australia, accused Glenn Armstrong, 47, of taking restroom photographs of boys, he said he was gathering proof that most boys aren’t circumcised to settle an ongoing debate with his wife.

(2) Sheriff’s deputies in Austin, Texas, arrested Anthony Gigliotti, 17, for following women around in public and snapping photographs of their bodies. Gigliotti said he needed the photos because of inadequate sex education at Lake Travis High School.

• Swedish Parliament member Fredrick Federley said he’s always refused to take gifts from those he’s responsible for regulating, but the Aftonbladet newspaper called him out in February for having accepted free travel from an airline. Federley denied the charge, reminding reporters that he’s a notorious cross-dresser

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and saying it was his alter ego, “Ursula,” who received the free holiday.

Ironies

In February, the Mortgage Bankers Association announced the sale of its Washington, D.C., headquarters for $41 million. The group bought the building in 2007, at the peak of the real estate bubble, for $79 million.

Our litigious society

• Craig Show, 49, filed a lawsuit in January against the Idaho State Police and the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office, demanding compensation following his DUI arrest in August. Show said the cops had seized a “medicine bag” on his motorcycle and, in opening it for inspection, permitted the “mystical powers” inside to escape. The bag, he said, hadn’t been opened since being blessed by a “medicine woman” in 1995.

• Sabrina Medina filed a lawsuit against the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort in Hawaii in January, claiming that an employee had caused her husband’s death. The late Humberto Murillo had swiped two 12-packs of beer from a store at the resort, but the manager pursued and confronted him. Murillo started punching, and bystanders restrained him and held him down.

Murillo, who was bipolar and had marijuana in his system, passed out and asphyxiated.

• Clumsy: (1) Teacher Karen Hollander filed a lawsuit in November against the New York City Department of Education after taking a fall on “slippery foreign substances,” including condoms, on the floor at the High School of Art & Design. Since schools distribute condoms on campus, she said, the department is responsible when students open them and discard them during lunch period, littering the floor. (2) Anthony Avery, 72, a retired insurance underwriter, filed a lawsuit in December against the exclusive Rye Golf Club in East Sussex County,

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England, for lingering injuries caused when he slipped on the wet floor of the shower room.

The floor, he said, was “too” slippery.

Fine points of the law

• Human Rights Law: Iraqi immigrant Laith Alani murdered two doctors in a British hospital in 1990 and has been confined to mental facilities ever since, taking clozapine to control his schizophrenia. Since Alani is not a citizen, the government has sought deportation, but in January the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal ruled that that would violate Alani’s “human rights.” Only the British hospitals, reasoned the judges, can guarantee that Alani will receive uninterrupted clozapine, without which he would become dangerous to himself and to fellow Iraqis after repatriation.

• Orthodox Jewish Law: Israel Elias and his then wife, Susan Zirkin, were divorced under British law in 1962, but Zirkin has been unable to remarry since then because Orthodox Jewish law doesn’t recognize divorce unless the husband grants the wife a “get,” and Elias has refused. Within the Orthodox community, Zirkin would have been shunned had she remarried, as would any children she had. A few rabbis try to work around the system, but their attempts are not widely accepted. Zirkin, now 73, was believed to be the world’s longeststanding “chained” wife, but in February, after 47 years, she became a free woman. Elias passed away, and the “get” is no longer necessary.

Recurring themes

(1) Last May, a 13-year-old boy in Galt, Calif., became the most recent inadvertent beneficiary of foolish behavior. Acting on a dare, the boy had chugged eight shots of tequila and lost consciousness. A routine CT scan at the hospital exposed an unsuspected brain tumor, and the boy is slowly recovering from his arduous but lifesaving surgery. (2) In January, James Shimsky, 50, became the most recent priest in the Catholic Diocese of Scranton, Pa., to be arrested for wayward behavior after being arrested on a Philadelphia street for allegedly buying cocaine.

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sary. View potters at work and learn about class opportunities —- 3-4pm - Opening reception for Emerging Artists in the Upper Gallery.

Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center The center is located at 56 Broadway, and preserves the legacy of the Black Mountain College through permanent collections, educational activities and public programs.

Info: 350-8484, bmcmac@ bellsouth.net or www.blackmountaincollege.org.

• Through SA (6/12) - The Tutelary Years of Ray Johnson (1943-1967).

Blue Spiral 1 The gallery at 38 Biltmore Ave. is open Mon.-Sat., 10am6pm. Info: 251-0202 or www. bluespiral1.com.

• Through SU (3/21) - New x 3: New Artists, New Works, New Year, 10 artists debut at the gallery offering fresh perspectives for the new year.

• Through SU (3/21) - Fiat Lux, paintings by Gabriel Shaffer, will be on display.

• Through SU (3/21) - CUPS: From Hand to Hand, handmade and made to hold, 16 artists offer an intimate expression of functional and sculptural works.

Castell Photography A photo-based art gallery located at 2C Wilson Alley, off of Eagle St. in downtown Asheville. Info: 255-1188 or www.castellphotography.com.

• Through SA (3/27) - Ooh La La, a collection of fine art nudes and boudoir photographs by Brie Castell.

Center For Craft, Creativity and Design Located at the Kellogg Conference Center, 11 Broyles Road. in Hendersonville. Info: 890-2050 or www.craftscreativitydesign.org.

• Through FR (3/26) - Loren Schwerd’s Mourning Portrait, a series of memorials to the communities of New Orleans devastated by Hurricane Katrina, will be on display.

Events At Folk Art Center The center is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 382 (just north of the Hwy 70 entrance in East Asheville). Open daily from 9am-6pm. Info: 298-7928 or www.craftguild.org.

• Through SU (5/2) - Charles Counts: A Retrospective Exhibition will be on display.

Grovewood Gallery Located at 111 Grovewood Road, Asheville. Info: 2537651 or www.grovewood. com.

• Through SU (4/4) - Women in Wood, an exhibit bringing light to the exceptional quality of work being created by women artists working in

the medium of wood, both woodturning and constructed wood.

Haen Gallery Located at 52 Biltmore Ave., downtown Asheville. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10am-6pm, Sat., 11am-6pm and Sun., Noon5pm. Info: 254-8577 or www. thehaengallery.com.

• SA (3/20) through FR (4/30) - Inland Empire (Part III), an exhibition of landscape paintings by Francis Di Fronzo.

• SA (3/20), 5:30-7:30pm - Opening reception for Inland Empire (Part III). Painter Francis Di Fronzo will be in attendance.

Haywood County Arts Council The HCAC sponsors a variety of art-related events in Waynesville and Haywood County. Unless otherwise noted, showings take place at HCAC’s Gallery 86 (86 North Main St.) in Waynesville.

Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm.

Info: 452-0593 or www. haywoodarts.org.

• WE (3/10) through TU (4/6) - An exhibition of work by LifeSpan affiliates and artists with unique challenges.

Penland School of Crafts A national center for craft education dedicated to helping people live creative lives.

Info: www.penland.org or 765-2359.

• TU (3/23) through SU (5/9) - Artist, Educator, Mentor, Rascal: Dolph Smith and Friends. Celebrating book arts instructor Dolph Smith’s years of teaching.

Transylvania Community Arts Council Located at 349 South Caldwell St. in Brevard. Hours: Mon.Fri., 10am-4pm. Info: 8842787 or www.artsofbrevard. org.

• FR (3/19) through MO (3/29) - Mountain quilts made by members of the WNC Quilters Guild - Area 5 will be on display.

• FR (3/19), 4-7pm - Artist reception for the WNC Quilters Guild - Area 5 exhibit.

• SA (3/20), 10am-4pm The WNC Quilters Guild - Area 5 exhibit will be open in honor of the Banff Film Festival.

Upstairs Artspace Contemporary nonprofit gallery at 49 S. Trade St. in Tryon. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11am-5pm and by appointment. Info: 859-2828 or www.upstairsartspace.org.

• Through SA (4/10) - Looking Back, Walking Forward: Evolution of Southern Folk Art will be on display.

More Art Exhibits & Openings Art at Ananda Hair Studio

The salon, located at 22 Broadway, hosts rotating art exhibits. Info: 232-1017.

• Through SU (3/28) - Red Moon Rising Studios presents Postmodern Folk, a pottery show by Gabriel Kline.

Art at the N.C. Arboretum Works by members of the Asheville Quilt Guild and regional artists are on display daily in The Visitor Education Center. Info: 665-2492 or www.ncarboretum.org.

• Through MO (5/31) - On Earth’s Furrowed Brow: The Appalachian Farm in Photographs, an exhibit by Tim Barnwell, will be on display in the Education Center Gallery.

Clingman Cafe Located at 242 Clingman Ave. in the River Arts District.

• Through WE (3/31) - Three, featuring ceramic sculptors by Adele Macy, Susan Musialowski and Anna Koloseike, will be on display.

Grand Bohemian Gallery Located at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Biltmore Village, 11 Boston Way. Info: www.bohemianhotelasheville. com or 505-2949.

• FR (3/19) through TH (4/15) - An exhibition by Stefano Cecchini, Italian wildlife artists, will be on display.

• SA (3/20), 5:30-7:30pm An artist reception for Stefano Cecchini’s exhibition will be held.

Opportunity House Events Located at 1411 Asheville Hwy. in Hendersonville. Info: 698-5517 or 692-0575.

• Through TU (4/6) - Action Image, a photographic exhibition on the musicals produced

by Flat Rock Playhouse, will be on display.

Classes, Meetings & Arts-Related Events Adult Drawing Classes • Beginner-Intermediate (pd.) With Artist/Teacher Deborah Tatko. • Extraordinary results guaranteed. • 25 years of success. • 8 week session, Wednesdays, 6:30pm8:30pm, March 17-May 5. $150. Call (828) 423-6891 or dtatko@charter.net Drawing and Painting Classes At The Island Studios (pd.) Ongoing classes and workshops in drawing and painting the figure, portrait, landscape, and more.

Classical to Impressionism.

Newly renovated studios.

(864) 201-9363. www.theislandstudios.com An Introduction to Artist’s Books (pd.) Art workshop presented

by Roots + Wings School of Art. Sat. March 27. 9am-3pm. $90. Ages 18+. Registration and more information at www.

40 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

rootsandwingsart.com or call 828-545-4827.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• WEDNESDAYS, 10:30am1pm - Arts group for adults.

Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League Classes are held at the studio, 999 W. Old Rt. 70, Black Mountain. Info: svfal.info@ gmail.com or www.svfal.org.

• THURSDAYS, Noon-3pm - Experimental Art Group.

Experimental learning and sharing water-media techniques and collage. $20 for four sessions or $6/session.

• FRIDAYS, 10am-1pm - Open studio for figure drawing. Small fee for model.

• MONDAYS, Noon-3pm - Open studio for portrait painting. Small fee for model.

WNC Knitters and Crocheters for Others This group meets monthly in Black Mountain and Fletcher/ Arden to create handmade items for donation to local charities while enjoying fellowship and swapping ideas and patterns.

• 3rd THURSDAYS, 1-3pm - Black Mountain group meets at Highland Farms, Building GH in Upper Core Room. Info: 669-0680.

Art/Craft Fairs WNC Quilters Guild Info: www.westernncquilters. org or quiltshow@westernncquilters.org.

• SA (3/20), 10am-4pm National Quilting Day celebration in the Blue Ridge Mall.

An exhibition of challenge quilts incorporating the theme “YUM: It’s all about Food,” will be on display. Viewers are encouraged to vote for a favorite quilt. Plus, demonstrations.

Spoken & Written Word Blue Ridge Community College Info: www.blueridge.edu.

• 2nd & 4th MONDAYS (through 4/12), 2-4pm - “Great Books Discussion Group” held in the president’s dining room in the Killian Building. Info: 694-1743 or marthah@blueridge.edu.

Book Discussion and Free Lunch • SU (3/21), 12:30-1:30pm - Meet Ann B. Ross, author of Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind, one of the most popular Southern debut novels in years, at Asbury Memorial

Methodist Church, 171 Beaverdam Road. Free. All welcome. RSVP: 253-0765 or asbury10@charterinternet. com.

Buncombe County Public Libraries LIBRARY ABBRVIATIONS - Each Library event is marked by the following location abbreviations: n BM = Black Mountain Library (105 N. Dougherty St., 250-4756) n FV = Fairview Library (1 Taylor Road, 250-6484) n SS = Skyland/South Buncombe Library (260 Overlook Road, 250-6488) n SW = Swannanoa Library (101 West Charleston Street, 250-6486) n WV = Weaverville Library (41 N. Main Street, 250-6482) n Library storyline: 250KIDS. • WE (3/17), 5-7pm - Library Knitters: A needlework group for all skill levels. SW. • TH (3/18), 2:30pm - Book Club: The Last Dickens by Matthew Pearl. SS —- 7pm - Book Club: The Story of a Marriage by Andrew Sean Greer. FV. • FR (3/19), 4-5:30pm - “Teen Awesome,” a meeting for teens ages 12-18. Help develop programs and events offered at the library. Snacks and drinks provided. WV. • TU (3/23), 3pm - Sit and Knit. WV —- 6:30pm Library Knitters meet. BM. Call to Writers • New online lit journal, Blue Lotus Review, now accepting year-round submissions. Info: www.bluelotusreview.com.

Events at Accent on Books The bookstore is located at 854 Merrimon Ave. Events are free and open to the public.

Info: 252-6255 or www. accentonbooks.com.

• FR (3/19), 6pm - Lenten Contemplation Series: Local religious author Ken Sehested will read and discuss In the Land of the Living: Prayers Personal and Public. Light refreshments will be served.

• SA (3/20), 2pm - Author and civil rights historian Dr. Katherine Charron will talk about her writing process and her new book Freedom’s Teacher, a biography of civil rights leader Septima Clark.

Light refreshments.

• SU (3/21), 3pm - Author Nan Chase will present her new book Eat Your Yard!

Edible Trees, Shrubs, Vines, Herbs and Flowers for Your Landscape. Chase will talk about her writing and gardening processes, share tips, and sign copies of her book. Light refreshments.

Events at City Lights City Lights Bookstore is at 3 E. Jackson St. in downtown

Sylva. Info: 586-9499 or more@citylightsnc.com.

• TH (3/18), 7pm - Ron Rash will read from his new short-story collection, Burning Bright, and take questions from the audience. An autographing session will follow.

Events at Malaprop’s The bookstore and cafe at 55 Haywood St. hosts visiting authors for talks and book signings. Info: 254-6734 or www.malaprops.com.

• WE (3/17), 7pm - Larry Baker will read from his book A Good Man. • TH (3/18), 5:30pm - Women on Words, a women’s poetry circle —- 7pm - Stich-n-bitch gathering. Bring your current project —- 7pm - Reading and book signing of The Farmer with I. Alexander Olchowski.

• FR (3/19), 7pm - Ron Rash will read from his short-story collection Burning Bright.

• SA (3/20), 7pm - Howard Frank Mosher, the author of Walking to Gatlinburg, will give a slide presentation titled “Transforming History into Fiction: The Story of a Born Liar.”

• SU (3/21), 3pm - Writers at Home: Readings by UNCA writing scholarship winners Amanda Gardener, Sally Parrish, Daniel Resner and Beth Sarno.

• MO (3/22), 7pm - Beth Delap will read from and sign copies of her book The Lioness, the Rich, and the Humvee, adaptation of C. S. Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.

• TU (3/23), 7pm - Angelo Kaltsos will read from her book Of Bears, Mice, and Nails: Outhouse Chronicles.

• TH (3/25), 7pm - Local photographer and writer Rob Amberg will read from his book The New Road: I-26 and the Footprints of Progress.

Haywood County Public Library System The main branch is located at 678 S. Haywood St., Waynesville. The county system includes branches in Canton, Maggie Valley, Fines Creek and Cruso. Info: 452-5169 or www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 1:30pm - Ready 4 Learning. A story time designed for 4 and 5-year-olds with a focus on kindergarten readiness. This story time runs Sept.-May. • THURSDAYS, 11am - Movers & Shakers. This story time for active 2 and 3year-olds incorporates dance, physical activity, songs and age-appropriate books.

• TUESDAYS, 11am - Family story time at the Fines Creek Branch Library. We will read books, tell stories, learn songs

and finger plays, and do a simple craft. Info: 627-0146.

• TUESDAYS, 11:15am - Family story time for children of all ages at the Canton Branch Library. We will read books, listen to songs, and learn finger plays. Info: 6482924.

Henderson County Public Library System Unless otherwise stated, all events take place in Kaplan Auditorium of the main branch library, located at 301 N. Washington St. in Hendersonville. The county system includes branches in Edneyville, Etowah, Fletcher and Green River. Info: 6974725 or www.henderson. lib.nc.us.

• TH (3/18), 4pm - “Hiking North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Heritage,” a presentation and slide show by Danny Bernstein. Her book Hiking North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Heritage takes readers beyond the well-known hikes in the region.

Spring Literary Festival at WCU • MO (3/22) through TH (3/25) - A diverse panel of authors of various literary genres will be featured as guest speakers. All events are free. Info: www.litfestival. org, madams@wcu.edu or 227-3270.

Food Asheville’s Raw Food Community • SU (3/21), 4-5:30pm - “Succulent Living Foods” class with Jeffrey & Erin Agostinelli at Earth Fare, 66 Westgate Pkwy. From raw chocolates to live meals, eat and learn in a this creative class designed to expand your nutritional knowledge. $20.

Info: 777-1141.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• FRIDAYS, 10:30am-1pm Cooking groups for adults.

Waynesville Recreation Center Located at 550 Vance St. in Waynesville. Info: 456-2030 or recyouth@townofwaynesville.org.

• THURSDAYS (3/25 through 5/27), 11am-2pm - “Cooking Around the World.” Each class focuses on a different culinary theme and will include programs featuring recipes from Italy, China, Japan and more. $24/$30 nonmembers.

Info: recoutdoorprograms@ townofwaynesville.org.

Music Sh*t Loads Of Vintage Vinyl! (pd.) All genres! Especially 70’s Jazz: Miles, Trane, McCoy, Ornette, Jarrett, ECM, CTI, Vanguard. Very low prices. Visit us in Brevard, across from the College: Rockin Robin Records African Drumming With Billy Zanski at Skinny Beats Drum Shop, 4 Eagle St., downtown Asheville. Drums provided. No experience necessary. Suggested donation $10 per class. Drop-ins welcome. Info: 768-2826.

• WEDNESDAYS, 6-7pm - Beginners.

• SUNDAYS, 1-2pm - Intermediates —- 2-3pm - Beginners.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• MONDAYS, 1-2pm - Music groups for adults.

Blue Ridge Orchestra Info: 683-4425 or www. blueridgeorchestra.org.

• SU (3/21), 3-5pm - “A Celebration of Spring & the Earth,” featuring Beethoven’s 6th Symphony and violin soloist Amy Lovinger performing Vivaldi’s “Spring” from The Seasons. Lovinger will also perform a new composition by the orchestra’s conductor Ron Clearfield called “Listen ... The Earth Is Weeping.”

At Diana Wortham Theatre. $15/$10. Tickets: 257-4530.

Country, Bluegrass and More • 1st & 3rd SATURDAYS, 7pm-until - At the Woodfin Community Center. Alcohol and smoke-free, family-friendly. Free admission. Snack bar available. Bands welcome.

Info: 505-4786.

Echo Early Music Festival Tickets are available at SoliClassica, 1550 Hendersonville Road in Arden or online at www.eemf.net. $15 suggested donation, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Info: 545-8865.

• FR (3/19) & SA (3/20), 7:30pm - Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas will be performed

by Amanda Gardner-Porter, Philip Haynie, Beth DuRoy and Timoty Wilds. Friday night’s show will be held at St. Matthias Episcopal Church in Asheville and Saturday night’s show will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Hendersonville.

FENCE Events The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center is located in

consciousparty

fun fundraisers

who:

Hands of Hope, a family concert featuring nationally known entertainer Billy Jonas.

benefits:

Hands of Hope is a four-month servicelearning project involving the staff and volunteers from Maccabi Academy, Odyssey School and Rainbow Mountain Children’s School. Since November, each participating school has teamed up with a local nonprofit to study an area of social need. Maccabi students, for example, partnered with ChildrenFirst staff to better understand disadvantaged youths.

Rainbow Mountain students worked with the Appalachian Sustainable Agricultural Project, and Odyssey students got together with RiverLink to learn firsthand about area water ways.

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The Orange Peel, downtown Asheville

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Sunday, March 21, 3-4:30 p.m.

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1-888-326-0403 Benefits Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Benefit Concert for Habitat For Humanity • SA (3/20) - Blues singer Peggy Ratusz will perform a concert at Tallgary’s College Street Pub, 4 College St. Other local musicians will be in attendance. All proceeds will be donated to Habitat For Humanity’s “Women Build” project, which provides housing for single mothers. Info: 232-0809.

Benefit Performance at Diana Wortham Theatre For ticket information or more details: 257-4530 or www.dwtheatre.com.

• WE (3/17), 6pm - LEAF International reception —- 7pm - Danny Ellis’ “800 Voices.” A portion of the proceeds from Patron Tickets will go to LEAF International. Info: www.theleaf.org.

Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center The center is located at 56 Broadway, and preserves the legacy of the Black Mountain College through permanent collections, educational activities and public programs. Info: 350-8484, bmcmac@bellsouth.net or www.blackmountaincollege. org.

• SA (3/20), 6pm - “{Re}Happening,” an evening of art, performance, music and dinner will be held in the original dining hall of the former Black Mountain College, now Camp Rockmont.

Transportation provided by the LaZoom Bus for $5. $40/$35 members (dinner and entertainment). $15/$10 members (entertainment only).

Bowling Tournament • SA (3/20), 11am-2pm - Family games —- 5-8pm - Adult games at A.M.F. Star Lanes, 491 Kenilworth Road. $20/$100 for a team of five. Info: www. buncombecounty.org/parks. All proceeds support Special Olympics Buncombe County athletes.

Eblen-Kimmel Charities Info: 255-3066 or www.eblencharities.org.

• TH (3/25), 7pm - Andrew Institute for Leadership and Public Service presents “Maxwell on Leadership,” a benefit for Eblen-Kimmel, at Biltmore

Baptist Church, Asheville. John Maxwell is an internationally respected leadership expert, speaker and author.

Flat Rock Playhouse The State Theater of North Carolina is on Hwy. 225, 3 miles south of Hendersonville. Info: 693-0731 or www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

• WE (3/17), 11:30am - “Passion for Fashion” event. The Supporting Players guild of Flat Rock Playhouse will host a fashion show and seated luncheon to benefit Flat Rock Playhouse at Kenmure Country Club.

Fundraising Concert for Shindig on the Green At the historic Colonial Theatre in downtown Canton. Funds raised will go to supporting the mountain tradition of Shindig on the Green. $20/$10 students. Reservations: info@folkheritage.org or 235-2760. Info: www.folkheritage.org or 258-6101, ext. 345.

• SA (3/20), 7pm - “A Celebration of Mountain Traditions” fundraising concert, featuring Balsam Range, Laura Boosinger, Bobby Hicks and the Cole Mountain Cloggers. Masters of ceremonies: Glenn Bannerman and John Roten.

Girls on the Run Girls on the Run is a nonprofit dedicated to educating and preparing girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Info: www.gotrwnc.org or girlsontherunwnc@gmail.com.

• TH (3/18), 7-9pm - Spring Diva Night & Fashion Show. Deals and give-aways all night long, along with complimentary massages, raffle prizes and a spring-wear fashion show. Luella’s BBQ for $5.

Hands of Hope Benefit Concert • SU (3/21), 3-4:30pm - The family concert will feature Billy Jonas, and will be held at the Orange Peel in downtown Asheville. $15 adults/$10 kids under 12. All proceeds will go to benefit Children First, A.S.A.P. and RiverLink. Tickets: 225-5851.

Junior League of Asheville

A local nonprofit organization dedicated to developing the potential of women, improving the community through various projects and promoting volunteerism. Info: www.juniorleagueasheville.org, jlofa@charter.net or 254-5608.

• TH (3/25), 6-9pm - Spring Soiree, a party with food, drinks, live music and exclusive shopping in the Spring Market. At Biltmore Park Town Square.

Paws With a Purpose A nonprofit organization of volunteers and their pets who provide animal assisted activities and animal assisted therapy services to people with social, emotional and cognitive needs in health care and educational facilities. Info: 301-5737 or www. pawswithapurpose.org.

• FR (3/19), 5-7pm - “Luck of the Paws,” a wine tasting and silent auction held at Appalachian Vintner, off of Biltmore Ave. $15 includes wine and light hors d’oeuvres. All proceeds benefit pet therapy programs.

Seventh Annual Cafe Shalom Fundraiser • SA (3/20), 6:30pm - The Asheville Jewish Community Center will host this fundraiser to benefit Hilde’s House Infant & Toddler Program, Shalom Children’s Center Early Childhood Program and Shalom Preschool. Theme: “Get Your Swank On.” Nightclub decor, drinks, food, music, silent auction and more. Babysitting with advance reservation. Tickets & info: 253-0701.

MORE BENEFITS EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Benefits Calendar online at www. mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after March 25.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)251-1333, ext. 365

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 41

edgymama

parenting from the edge by Anne Fitten Glenn

Local authors write for kids and parents You can’t swing a dead opossum in Asheville without hitting a writer. And some of these writers are writing kids books. A few are writing for parents.

Now you can take that “buy local” mantra to the next level by purchasing locally written (and a few locally published) books at one of our independent bookstores (gaining complete “put your $ where your heart is” cred).

Below are some soon-to-be released or newish books, most of which will be supported by local readings. I only wish I had room to write about all our talented WNC writers.

Zane’s Trace: Asheville author Allan Wolf’s novel in verse, Zane’s Trace, was recently released in paperback. Wolf will read from Zane’s Trace on Saturday, March 27, at 3 p.m. at Spellbound Book Shop on Wall Street. He’ll also talk about how he created the story and where his ideas come from. The novel won an Indiebound Kids’ Next List Top Ten Book and a North Carolina Children’s Book Award, which means it was chosen as a favorite by North Carolina students — from authors from all over the country, not just from our state.

The narrator of Zane’s Trace is a teenager who deals with teenage issues, so this one’s most appropriate for ages 12 and up. Wolf has requested that only kids 11 and older attend his reading.

Blockhead: the life of Fibonacci: Local writer and journalist Joseph D’Agnese has written a picture book, which will be released at the end of March. It’s titled Blockhead: the life of Fibonacci, and tells the tale of Italian mathematician Leonardo Fibonacci, the man who discovered that most things in nature follow a set pattern (now known as the Fibonacci sequence). Illustrations are by John O’Brien.

Kids in grades one to four, or anyone who likes math, will appreciate D’Agnese’s story. He’ll be reading and signing Blockhead on Saturday, April 10, at 3 p.m. at Spellbound.

Grateful Steps Publishing: Asheville-based publishing house Grateful Steps Publishing has released a number of children’s books, including some penned and drawn by locals.

Loving Ruby, a picture book by Lois Chazen of Black Mountain and illustrated by Sundara Fawn of Asheville, tells the true tale of a rescued baby cardinal.

They’ve also published a “that’s so Asheville” title—Playing with Gaia … discovering the spirit of Mother Earth. The book tells of a little girl learning about the world around her. This one’s by Ashevillians Cindy Bowen and Twila Jefferson, as writer and illustrator respectively. Though both of these are picture books, they have quite a bit of text, and would read well with the 5- to 8-year-old crowd.

365 Perfect Things to Say to Your Kids: Parenting expert Maureen Healy recently published 365 Perfect Things to Say to Your Kids. Healy is the founder of Growing Happy Kids. In her first book, she offers parents “playful and powerful” ideas for empowering, education and inspiring their kids.

Number 97, titled Positive Energy, offers, “Send positive energy out to the world. Do you know what this means? You are like a radio with invisible love waves and you get to send them to anyone, anywhere, any time.

Where do you want to send them to now?”

While I probably wouldn’t use Healy’s exact words with my kids, I’ve used some of her 365 things as conversation prompts. The writing seems to be aimed toward younger kids than mine, and it’s a bit stilted in places, but the messages ooze positive affection.

Healy’s heartfelt energy comes through, even without the overuse of exclamation points.

This would make a great gift book for a hippie parent of a toddler.

Healy moved to Asheville two years ago and wrote the book here. She’s currently writing her second, while continuing her work presenting programs to help parents nurture and create emotional health in kids. She’ll give a talk and book signing at Malaprop’s Bookstore & Café on Sunday, March 28, at 3:30 p.m. X

Hope Larson photo by anne fitten glenn

Mercury: Native Ashevillian Hope Larson has a new graphic novel coming out on April 6.

Mercury, her fourth graphic novel, ties together the stories of two girls living in the same town in Nova Scotia, but 150 years apart in time.

Larson’s expressive black and white drawings add layers to her excellent prose. The novel passed my 11-year-old girl’s test with high marks (she’s squarely in Larson’s target demographic). “It’s so suspenseful. But I didn’t like the kissing part,” my girl says. Larson will read from Mercury on Saturday, April 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Spellbound. There will be a door prize drawing for an original piece of her artwork as well. Larson also will be selling her books at Fanaticon, on Saturday, May 15, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Asheville Art Museum.

Preschool Available Ages 3-5 Call for a Private Interview 259-3653 www.odysseycommunity.org 90 Zillicoa Street, Asheville, NC 42 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Anne Fitten “Edgy Mama” Glenn writes about a number of subjects, including parenting, at www.edgymama.com.

Parenting Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Empowered Birthing (pd.) Learn how and when to use movement, relaxation, and massage during labor to provide comfort, shorten labor and gain confidence. Labor Support and Comfort Measures class 7:15-9:30pm Tues. April 6 with Laura Beagle from Empowered Birthing call 231-9337 empoweredbirthing.org Asheville Jewish Community Center Events The JCC is located at 236 Charlotte St., Asheville. Info: 253-0701.

• FR (3/19), Noon-1pm - Preschool Parenting: “Why Kindergarten Readiness is More than ABCs and 123s: Part 2,” facilitated by Kate Donaldson and Becky Hunt.

Bring lunch. A discussion will follow.

Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults.

Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• SA (3/20), 6-8:30pm - Parents Night Out for special needs parents, an evening of well-deserved respite.

Highly-trained professionals will lead a variety of interesting activities for children of all ages while parents take time off. $25/child.

Integral Night • WE (3/24), 6-7:30pm - “What’s Integral about Integral Education?” Learn more about integral education. This event is open to the Asheville community. Child care provided. For more info and to RSVP: office@odysseycommunity.org.

Let’s Talk: Workshops for Parents and Teens Free classes provided by local agencies to offer parents information and methods for engaging with teens on a variety of difficult issues. No registration required.

For parents and guardians only. At Randolph Learning Center, 90 Montford Ave. Free. Info: anna@ourvoicenc. org.

• MO (3/22) - Let’s Talk: Sexual Orientation.

MORE PARENTING EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Parenting Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after March 25.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)251-1333, ext. 365

Tryon. Free. Info: 859-9021 or www.fence.org.

• SU (3/21), 4pm - Family concert with Brevard-based group Strings Attached, who will invite audience members to identify selections on the afternoon’s free-form program.

Gospel Singing • SU (3/21), 6pm - The Moore Brothers and The Bud Lewis Family will perform at First Baptist Church, 130 Montreat Road, Black Mountain. Info: 669-6461 or 230-4487.

Hendersonville Community Band Info: 696-2118 or www.hcbmusic.com.

• TH (3/18), 7:30pm “Marching Into Spring” will be performed at the Blue Ridge Conference Center at Blue Ridge Community College.

Military marches, marches from opera, Broadway shows, film, classical music and jazz. $10/Free for students.

Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra Info: 697-5884 or www.hendersonvillesymphony.org.

• SU (3/21) - The Hendersonville Youth Orchestra will perform a concert at the Bo Thomas Auditorium at Blue Ridge Community College.

Indoor Drumming & Toning Circle At Skinny Beats Drum Shop, 4 Eagle St., Asheville. Drums provided. Love offerings appreciated. Info: 258-1140 or www. skinnybeatsdrums.com.

• SA (3/20), 6-7pm - Indoor Drumming and Toning Circle facilitated by Billy Zanski and Linda Go. Land-of-the-Sky Barbershop Chorus For men age 12 and older. Info: www.ashevillebarbershop.com or 768-9303.

• TUESDAYS, 7:30pm - Open Rehearsals at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 51 Wilburn Pl. Music at LaRue’s Backdoor • WE (3/24) - Concert by indie/folk band Dark Dark Dark’s. LaRue’s Backdoor is located at 237 Haywood St. Info: 252-1014. For ages 21 and older.

Music at UNCA Concerts are held in Lipinsky Auditorium, unless otherwise noted. Tickets & info: 2325000.

• TH (3/18), 7:30pm - UNCA’s Jazz Combos will perform in concert. $5/Free for students.

• FR (3/19), 7pm - Acclaimed civil-rights leader and songstress Bernice Johnson Reagon will perform. Free. Info: 251-6470.

• SU (3/21), 4pm - UNCA Chamber Music will perform in concert. $5/Free for students.

Song O’ Sky Chorus (Sweet Adelines International)

The chorus is always looking for women 18+ who want to learn how to sing barbershop harmony. Please visit a rehearsal. Info: 1-866-8249547 or www.songosky.org.

• MONDAYS, 6:45pm Rehearsal at Reed Memorial Baptist Church on Fairview Rd. (enter parking lot on Cedar St.).

Guests welcome.

St. Patrick’s Concert • SU (3/21), 2-4pm - Patrick and Cathy Sky will perform traditional jigs, reels, hornpipes and songs from Ireland on Uilleann pipes, pennywhistle and fiddle at YaYa Yoga studio in Spruce Pine, 31 Cross St. $10 at the door. Reservations: 765-6628.

The Asheville Choral Society Tickets & info: 232-2060 or www.ashevillechoralsociety. org.

• SA (3/20), 8-9:30pm & SU (3/21), 4-5:30pm - The Asheville Choral Society performs “Carmina Burana,” Carl Orff’s dramatic masterpiece set to a collection of medieval poems, one of the most popular classical works from the 20th century. $20.

Theater Asheville Community Theatre All performances are at 35 East Walnut St. Info & reservations: 254-1320 or www.ashevilletheatre.org.

• Through SU (3/21) - The Boxcar Children, based on the children’s book series by Gertrude Chandler Warner, will be performed. Fri. and Sat., 7:30pm and Sun., 2:30pm. $22/$19/$12 children.

Asheville Playback Theatre An improvisational theatre experience building a community of neighbors and honoring personal stories. $10/$5 students & seniors. Info: www. ashevilleplayback.org.

• FR (3/19), 8pm Performance at the BeBe Theatre, 20 Commerce St. Autism Community Center Offers various group activities for youths and adults. Open to anyone, the groups are autism and special needs friendly and are run by creative professionals. One-time trial $20, register online. Info: www. autismcommunitycenter.com or 313-9313.

• WEDNESDAYS, 4:305:30pm - Theater groups for teens.

Flat Rock Playhouse The State Theater of North Carolina is on Hwy. 225, 3 miles south of Hendersonville.

Info: 693-0731 or www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

• Through SU (3/21) - YouTheatre presents Schoolhouse Rock Live!, a musical based on the educa-

tional animated TV series. $18 adults/$10 students & kids.

Hendersonville Little Theatre Located at the Barn on State St., between Kanuga and Willow Roads in Hendersonville. $14/$8 or $18/$10 for musicals. Info: 692-1082 or www.hendersonvillelittletheatre.org.

• FRIDAY & SATURDAYS, 8pm & SUNDAYS, 2pm (through 3/28) - The drama/ comedy Visiting Mr. Green will be performed. $14/$8 for young adults and children ages 18 and under.

Theater at UNCA Performances take place in Lipinsky Auditorium, unless otherwise noted.

• SU (3/21), 2pm - NC Stage Company will read through the script Dead Man’s Cellphone in the Reuter Center. Free.

Tryon Fine Arts Center The gallery is at 34 Melrose Ave. in Tryon. Open Mon.-Fri., 9am-Noon & 1:30-4pm; Sat., 9am-1pm. Info: 859-8322 or www.tryonarts.org • TH (3/18), 6:30-8:30pm - “Explore Improvisation” with featured speaker and improv artist Darlene Cah. $7 adults/$4 students.

Film Asheville Jewish Film Festival The second annual Asheville Jewish Film Festival promotes the diversity of Jewish identity through film, exploring the dynamic environment of history and culture on the modern Jewish experience.

Screenings are held at the Fine Arts Theatre. $18/$8. Info: 253-3227, 251-6576 or www. ashevillejewishfilmfestival.com.

• Through FR (3/19) Asheville Jewish Film Festival.

Visit the Web site for a schedule and details on the films.

F-Word Film Festival The 10th annual F-Word Film Festival: A Celebration of Images By and About Women (But for All Audiences) will screen feminist documentaries in UNCA’s Humanities Lecture Hall. Panel discussions with UNCA faculty and students will follow the screenings. Free.

Info: 251-6590.

• TH (3/25), 7pm - Club Native examines the lives of four Mohawk women deeply impacted by racism and prejudice. Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority explores the political story of Patsy Takemoto Mink, an Asian-American woman who battled racism and sexism.

Film Screenings at WCU Held in the A.K. Hinds University Center. Screening begin at 7pm. $2 students, faculty and staff/$4 public. Info: 227-7206.

• WE (3/17), 7pm - Foreign film series: Knife in the Water (Poland, 1962). $1.

Independent Film Screening • SU (3/21), 7pm - ACDT and William Towers present Thio Vestri, a 40-minute underground independent film screening, at the BeBe Theater, 20 Commerce St., Asheville.

Seeking audience feedback.

Open bar with snacks. Free.

RSVP by March 18: 2542621.

League of Women Voters LWV is a nonpartisan organization encouraging political involvement by increasing the public’s knowledge of and participation in the electoral process. Membership open to all men and women over 18. Info: 251-6169 or www. ablwv.org.

• TU (3/23), 12:30pm & 7:15pm - Screening of the film Iron Jawed Angels at Flat Rock Cinema. $10. All proceeds benefit the LWV. Madison County Arts Council Events MCAC is located at 90 S. Main St. in Marshall. Info: 649-1301 or www.madisoncountyarts. com.

• SA (3/20), 1-2:30pm - The Asheville International Children’s Film Festival will make a stop at the council.

The festival features films from many countries. $5 kids/$7 adults.

RiverRun Road Show The RiverRun Road Show, an annual tour to coffeehouses, clubs, museums and cinemas, is coming to the area. The free events showcase the films offered at the RiverRun International Film Festival. Info: www.riverrunfilm.com.

• SA (3/20), 8:30pm - Show at the Fine Arts Theatre, 36 Biltmore Ave., Asheville.

Screening of Still Bill • SA (3/20), 8pm - To celebrate its ninth anniversary and the vernal equinox, West End Bakery, 757 Haywood Road, will host a free screening of Still Bill, a documentary that captures the spirit of soul legend Bill Withers. Info: 252-9378.

Seven Sisters Cinema A documentary film series presenting films by regional filmmakers and/or subjects of regional interest. Screens are held at the White Horse in Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Road. Info: www.sevensisterscinema.com or 686-3922.

• TH (3/18), 7pm - Tobacco Money Feeds my Family, a film by Cynthia Hill and Curtis Gaston. A discussion will follow. $5/$3.

Southern Circuit Tour The nation’s only regional tour of independent filmmakers, providing communities with an interactive way of experiencing

independent film. Films will be shown in the theater of A.K. Hinds University Center on the WCU campus. Free. Info: www.southarts.org/southerncircuit or 227-3622.

• TH (3/25) - God’s Architects.

Dance Argentine Tango Dancers of all levels welcome.

Info: www.tangoasheville.com.

• 1st & 3rd SATURDAYS, 7:30-10pm - Argentine Tango Milongas (Social Dance) at Filo Pastries, 1155 Tunnel Rd. $5 for members/$6 for nonmembers.

• SUNDAYS (except 1st), 7-10pm - Argentine Tango Practica at North Asheville Recreation Center, 37 E. Larchmont Rd. $5 for members/$6 for non-members.

Asheville Culture Project A cultural arts community center offering ongoing classes in Capoeira Angola and Samba percussion. Other instructors, groups and organizations are invited to share the space. Info: www.ashevillecultureproject. org.

• WEEKLY - Capoeira Angola, an Afro-Brazilian martial art taught and practiced through a game involving dance, music, acrobatics, theater and the Portuguese language.

Mondays, 7-9pm, beginners class; Wednesdays, 7-9pm, intermediate class; Fridays, 7-9pm, intermediate class; Saturdays, 10am-Noon, beginners class. $12 (free for first timers on 2nd and 4th Sat.).

Info: www.capoeiraasheville. org.

Classes at Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre Classes are by donation and on a drop-in basis. Classes are held at the New Studio of Dance, 20 Commerce St. in downtown Asheville. Info: www.acdt.org or 254-2621.

• THURSDAY, 7:30-9pm - Wacky Wild Dance/’80s Aerobics: Dress up in outrageous outfits and dance. $5-10 suggested donation.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 6-7:30pm - Modern classes.

By donation.

• MONDAYS, Noon-1:30pm - Fusion Flow Yoga: A blend of Hatha, improvisation and meditation. $5-10 suggested donation.

• MONDAYS, 6:30-7:30pm - Beginning adult tap dancing with Joe Mohar —- 7:308:30pm - Intermediate adult tap dancing. $20.

Classes at Asheville Dance Revolution Sponsored by The Cultural Development Group. At 63 Brook St. Info: 277-6777 or ashevilledancerevolution@ gmail.com.

• TUESDAYS, 8-9:15pm - Beginning/Intermediate Adult Jazz.

• FRIDAYS, 4-5pm - Boys Dance Combo Class. This is for boys interested in dance.

The class touches on all styles of dance for the male dancer —- 6-7:30pm - African dance with Sarah Yancey featuring live drumming. Open to all. $14.

English Country Dance Dance to live music with a caller. No partner necessary.

Comfortable shoes and clothing. Beginners welcome. $6.

Info: 225-7901 or 230-8449.

• 1st & 3rd SUNDAYS, 3-5:30pm - Dance at the Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave. InterPlay Held at 227 Edgewood Ave. $5-$15 per class. Info: www. interplaync.org.

• SU (3/21), 2-4pm - “An Introduction to InterPlay” will be held at Jubilee Community Church, 46 Wall St. The workshop explores movement, story and voice in a playful atmosphere. $10. Proceeds support the Compassion Fund.

To register: 683-2004 or LyndaLetourneau@charter.net.

Morris Dancing Learn English traditional Morris dances and become a member of one of three local teams as a dancer or musician. Music instruction provided to experienced musicians. Free. Info: 994-2094 or www.ashevillemorris.us.

• MONDAYS, 5:30pm Women’s Garland practice held at Reid Center for Creative Art. Moving Women A collaborative performance and modern dance ensemble.

Info: www.movingwomen.org or contact@movingwomen. org.

• THURSDAYS through SATURDAYS (3/18 through 3/27), 7:30pm - The Trunk Show, a concert of modern dance and movement theatre, will be performed at N.C. Stage Company, 15 Stage Lane. $15/$6 minimum donation on March 18.

Southern Lights SDC A nonprofit square-dance club.

Square dancing is friendship set to music. Info: 625-9969 or 698-4530.

• SA (3/20) - “Going Green” recycle dance at the Whitmire Activity Building, Lily Pond Road, Hendersonville. Bring aluminum cans and plastic bottles to be recycled; proceeds will go to a local charity.

Early advanced dance at 6pm.

Early rounds at 7pm. Squares and rounds at 7:30pm.

Studio Zahiya Classes Classes are held at Studio Zahiya, 41 Carolina Lane. All classes are drop-in anytime. $12 per class. $40 for four

classes, with other discounts available. Info: 242-7595.

• THURSDAYS, 6:30-7:30pm - Bhangra! A high-energy dance from Punjab, India influence by dancehall, hip-hop and Bollywood films.

Swing Asheville Info: www.swingasheville.com, 301-7629 or dance@swingasheville.com.

• TUESDAYS, 6-7pm - Beginner lindy-hop swing lessons. $12/person per week for 4-week series or $10 for members. Join at SwingAsheville. com. No partner necessary.

Let your inner dancer out. 11 Grove St., downtown Asheville.

Classes start first Tuesday of every month.

Zimbabwean Dance Classes • TU (3/23), 7:30-8:30pm & TH (3/25), 7-8pm - Mbira master from Zimbabwe Musekiwa Chingodza will teach traditional Zimbabwean dance classes at Terpsicorps Dance Studio, 129 Roberts St. $15/class. Info: wombbaba@ hotmail.com or 777-0922.

Auditions & Call to Artists Auditions for Representing: It’s Time to Make a Choice • SA (3/20), Noon-2pm - Auditions will be held at W.C. Reid Center, 133 Livingston St. Seeking performers ages 17 and up of all races. Singers and rappers also needed. The production debuting in May will benefit Partners Unlimited. Info: cultural_artistic_ensemble@ yahoo.com.

Brevard Little Theatre Located in the American Legion Hall, 55 E. Jordan St., Brevard.

Info: www.brevardlittletheatre. com. Reservations: 884-2587.

• SA & SU (3/20 & 21), 2-4pm - Auditions will be held for Birds in the Weather, winner of the theater’s annual International Play-Writing Competition. Seeking two men and six women. To be performed May 6-9. Info: 883-2751.

Call for 8th Annual “Whole Bloomin’ Thing” Spring Festival • Now accepting applications for this year’s event, to be held on May 8 in Waynesville’s Frog Level. Local growers, artisans and wellness & nature-related professionals are invited to request an application at froglevelfestival@yahoo.com or by calling 734-9777.

Castell Photography A photo-based art gallery located at 2C Wilson Alley, off of Eagle St. in downtown Asheville. Info: 255-1188 or www.castellphotography.com.

• Through TH (4/1) - Call for entries for The Lensless Image, a juried exhibit of pinhole photography or any photographic

image created without the use of a lens. $25 entry fee for the first three images, $5 for each additional image.

Edible Book Festival A panel comprised of local restaurant owners, writers and artists will judge participating books. The top three artists will receive prizes. Everyone in attendance will have an opportunity to rate the pieces. Hosted

by Asheville BookWorks, 428 1/2 Haywood Road. Info: 2558444 or www.ashevillebookworks.com.

• Through TH (4/1) - All entries must integrate text/literary inspirations in a “book-like” form, which must be entirely edible. Please provide a list of ingredients. Books that do not need refrigeration should be delivered on March 30 or 31.

Books that need refrigeration should be delivered on April 1, by 1pm.

Performances at the Parkway Playhouse The historic Parkway Playhouse is located at 202 Green Mountain Dr. (just north of the downtown square) in Burnsville. Tickets & info: 6824285 or www.parkwayplayhouse.com.

• SA (3/20), 10am - Open auditions for the plays and musicals scheduled for the upcoming season will be held at the Mountain Heritage Center in Burnsville, 113 Green Mountain Drive. Musicians for orchestra and band positions, staff for the theatres box office, production office and scene shop are also needed.

Seeking Art of All Sorts • Seeking art of all sorts, music, movie shorts and other multi-media, for Blue Lotus Review, a new online journal for music, art, literature and more. Accepting submissions year-round. Info: www.bluelotusreview.com.

Skyland Performing Arts Center Located at 538 N. Main St. in Hendersonville. Info: 693-0087 or www.BRPAC.org.

• SU (3/21), 2pm - Auditions for “Sandy the Dog” for the production of Annie. Looking for all dogs with personality and command behavior. Dogs must be on leashes. Meet in front of the courthouse on Main St.

CALENDAR DEADLINE The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)2511333, ext. 365

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 43

greenscene

environmental news

Let it Bee

Natural beekeeping in Buncombe County

by Robin Criscuolo At a February beekeeping conference at Warren Wilson College, I heard repeated but vague mentions of “natural beekeeping.” I came away curious to know more about what sounded like a buzzword in local beekeeping, so I got in touch with some local bee enthusiasts, Calvin Robinson and Carl Chesick.

Robinson, a small-scale beekeeper in Candler and president of the Buncombe County Beekeepers Chapter — a unit of the nonprofit North Carolina State Keepers Association — has a vision that both men share for the future of beekeeping: Go natural.

Robinson has kept honeybees since 2003, but he has been around them all his life. Growing up, he had an uncle who kept bees. “After my uncle died, I purchased some so-called sourwood honey from a store and knew I had to do something to get the real thing,” Robinson says. “The only way I knew to be sure was to do it myself.”

Colony collapse and the importance of bees Honeybees have been getting lots of press recently about their rapid decline, often attributed to colony collapse disorder, a mysterious malady that is blamed for causing bees to die or to disappear en masse. But nobody seems to know exactly what colony collapse disorder is.

Pesticides, viruses, mites, as well as industrialization, urbanization, and climate change are all cited as factors. Robinson is skeptical of the term, however. “I think CCD is not new but a progres-

“Honeybees are indispensable in the production of more than a third of everything we eat.”

sion of problems we were already experiencing due to use of chemicals, poor genetics, and highly stressed hives.”

“There’s been a 50-percent decline in the number of bee hives in the U.S. since 1980,” notes Chesick, director of the Buncombe County Beekeepers Chapter and Robinson’s close friend and colleague. “In the early 1990s, hives were being lost so fast it looked like there wouldn’t be any bees left. That might be tolerable if it just meant no more honey or beeswax candles, but honeybees are indispensable in the production of more than a third of everything we eat,” says Chesick, who has been keeping bees in West Asheville for eight years.

—

Natural beekeeping: letting bees be bees

Robinson and Chesick’s response to the hard times bees are facing is to fight back — naturally.

Many large commercial beekeeping operations have turned to chemical treatments to bolster bees and combat deadly mites. But the long-term effects of these treatments are more harmful than helpful, Robinson says. The chemicals have created more resistant mites and stressed the bees.

Some local beekeepers are using naturally derived treatments for their hives, but Chesick and Robinson advocate for no treatments. “Asheville has a consciousness about sustainability and a concern for keeping food pure, so most of our beekeepers use benign substances like formic acid or thymol, which is derived from the herb, thyme.

I don’t use anything, because I want to breed bees that will survive without having to be propped up,” says Chesick, adding wryly, “Maybe I’m just trying to save myself a lot of work.”

44 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Honey-bee swirl: “There’s been a 50percent decline in the number of bee hives in the U.S. since 1980,” notes Carl Chesick, director of the Buncombe County Beekeepers Chapter.

beekeeper

Carl Chesick

queens to create what they call “survivor stock.”

Survivor stock is a tougher breed of bees that’s resistant to mites and can thrive without chemical treatments. Robinson and Chesick create this hardiness by breeding their queens with wild bees in the area.

They also use strategies like “splitting” hives to reduce mite populations. “A hive split removes one-third of the mites from the parent colony because it interrupts the mite breeding cycle,” says Robinson.

Robinson notes that chemical-free operations “seem to be seeing increased success over many commercial operations that rely on chemicals.”

“We have a perfect storm of things against our bees,” he continues. “It is up to beekeepers to do everything possible to take out each part of this disastrous equation to quiet the storm enough for our bees to do what they were designed to do.”

photo courtesy of Carl Chesick

Robinson and Chesick think the best way to keep bees healthy is to manage hives in ways that allow them to thrive without chemicals and with as little assistance from the keeper as possible. Low interference helps the bees build natural resistance to disease, fungus and mites. “The basics of natural beekeeping are to find diverse genetics and preserve them, allow bees to do what they were designed to do — collect pollen, propolis, water, and nectar — and help bees regain their ability to keep the colony disease free,” Robinson says.

He and Chesick work together on breeding

For info on upcoming bee schools, getting started with hives, and what the BCBC is up to, go to www.wncbees. org. To support honeybee research and the arts, check out the Asheville Area Arts Council’s Crystal Ball at the Grand Bohemian on Friday, March 26. The arts auction will feature a piece of jewelry from “Friends of Honeybees: The Life’s Work Amulet,” which represents the life’s work of a single honeybee — one twelfth of a teaspoon. X Robin Criscuolo is a Warren Wilson College junior who first came face-to-face with bees when her father kept a hive.

Eco Calendar for March 17 - 25, 2010 Clear Water Contractor Training • SA (3/27) - Regional Clear Water Contractor Trainings.

Several development-related organizations have joined together to provide training for regional contractors on the laws and best practices pertaining to sediment, erosion and stormwater control. $35. Info: www.clearwatercontractors.org or 712-0972.

ECO Events The Environmental and Conservation Organization is dedicated to preserving the natural heritage of Henderson County and the mountain region as an effective voice of the environment. Located at 121 Third Ave. W. Hendersonville. Info: 692-0385 or www.eco-wnc.org.

• 4th THURSDAYS, Noon-1:30pm - Board meeting.

Visitors are welcome.

N.C. Forest Defense Campaign • FR (3/19), 1pm - Protesters will gather outside the U.S. Forest Service Supervisor’s Office, 160-A Zillicoa St., Asheville, to demand the cancellation of the planned Globe Forest Timber Sale. Info: www.savetheglobe.wordpress.com or ncforestdefense@riseup.net.

RiverLink Events RiverLink, WNC’s organization working to improve life along the French Broad, sponsors a variety of river-friendly events. Info: 252-8474 or www.riverlink.org.

• 3rd THURSDAYS, Noon-2pm - Bus Tours. See and hear about plans for the river’s future, learn local history and visit neighborhoods. Meet in front of Asheville City Hall. $15 for nonmembers. BYO lunch. Reservations required.

Seeking Earth Day Short Student FIlms • Through SA (4/10) - The Environmental and Conservation Organization is seeking films from students currently attending schools in Henderson County that concern the subject of environmental stewardship. All films must be submitted on DVD to ECO, 121 Third Ave. W. Suite 4, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

Sierra Club Members of the WNC Sierra Club Chapter work together to protect the community and the planet. The mission of the Sierra Club, America’s oldest, largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, is to explore, enjoy and protect the wild places of the earth.

Info: www.nc.sierraclub.org/wenoca or 251-8289.

• TH (3/25), 7-9pm - Presenter: Cheryl Fowler, the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. Fowler will speak on the SAHC, which works to conserve the clean water and unique habitat of the Southern Appalachian

Mountains. At Unitarian Church, Edwin at Charlotte in Asheville.

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy The mission of the SAHC is to protect the world’s oldest mountains for the benefit of present and future generations. Info: 253-0095 or www.appalachian.org. n Reservations required for SAHC hikes: e-mail kristina@appalachian.org.

• SU (3/21), 2-4pm - Second annual egg hunt at the historic Sherrill’s Inn, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, in Fairview.

Egg relay race, prizes, refreshments, music and more. $25 per family for members/$50 per family for nonmembers. RSVP by March 17.

• WE (3/24), 4:30pm - Guided sunset hike on Drovers Road Preserve in Fairview. This hike is difficult and for the adventurous only. Bring jacket, hiking shoes, light dinner, camera, water, insect repellent and flashlight. $10 nonmembers. RSVP by March 22.

Wild Birds Unlimited Events Located at 1997 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Info: 687-9433 or www.asheville.wbu.com.

• SA (3/20), 9am - Carolina Field Birders: Travel to Kituwah, near Bryson City, for a group outing. Meet at exit 83 off U.S. 23/74 in Sylva. Info: oldsquaw1942@ att.net —- 10am - Birdwalk with the Transylvania County Bird Club. Info: http://web.comporium.net/~mbarg —9am-Noon - Beaver Lake Work Day. Info: www.main. nc.us/emas or Johnst1@buncombe.main.nc.us.

• TU (3/23), 9am - Johnson Farm Birdwalk with Henderson County Bird Club.

WNC Nature Center Located at 75 Gashes Creek Rd. Hours: 10am-5pm daily.

Admission: $8/$6 Asheville City residents/$4 kids. Info: 298-5600 or www.wildwnc.org.

• TH (3/25), 2-7:30pm - “N.C. Elk Experience in the Smokies,” a presentation on elk ecology and biology.

Meet at the Nature Center for a classroom discussion and then travel to Cataloochee Valley. Info: 298-5600, ext. 308.

MORE ECO EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Eco Calendar online at www.mountainx. com/events for info on events happening after March 25.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

Questions? Call (828)251-1333, ext. 365

Give the Gift of Relaxation This Holiday Season

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mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 45

food

the straight dish

Porktastic!

Exploring the sweet and savory sides of bacon in Asheville

Kathmandu Cafe Have You Tried Beer From LHasa?

We’ve GoT iT! all aBC Permits LuNCH BuFFeT 11:30 - 2:30 diNNer 5:30 - 10:00 Taste The Freshness of Himalayan Cuisine 90 PaTToN ave doWNToWN, asHeviLLe 828 252 1080

Ode to bacon: Luella’s goes a step further, putting bacon in the sandwiches and the beverages. photos by Jonathan Welch

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Why is bacon practically a pop-culture icon these days? With so many people focused on achieving better health, it’s slightly amusing to see the proliferation of bacon-of-the-month clubs, themed wallets and even tattoos. Is bacon worship a quiet rebellion against a culture that increasingly reminds us to analyze the nutritional content and possible toxicity of everything that crosses our lips? Is it because it offers a cheap, hedonistic pleasure in a woeful economy? Or is it — simply — just that good?

Whatever the case, Xpress selflessly risked cholesterol levels to seek out, sample and report on some of the more creative ways that local chefs are paying homage to bacon, and here are the findings, all verifiably porktastic: Short Street Cakes makes a bacon-apple cupcake that has managed to generate a significant amount of buzz. It’s no wonder — how can you go wrong with bacon and apples sautéed in bacon fat, all baked within a cinnamon-pound-cake matrix, then topped with maple-cream-cheese icing and more bacon?

Sweet lord.

While some people might find the idea of a bacon cupcake a bit odd, Nathanael Markham of Short Street puts things in perspective.

The flavor combination of “pork and apple — savory and sweet all together — has existed throughout culinary history,” he notes.

“Think of bacon and syrup.” Markham asserts

that people who aren’t vegetarian will “fall in love” with the cupcakes.

“It’s the balance between sweet and savory that really makes the marriage of the flavors work,” he says. It’s worth noting that the bacon cupcakes are sold only on Fridays. It’s very likely that that will not change any time soon, Markham adds.

Short Street Cakes is located at 225 Haywood Road in West Asheville. For more information, visit www.shortstreetcakes.com.

Luella’s Bar-B-Que is a veritable pig palace.

How can you have your pork at this Merrimon Avenue eatery? Let us count the ways.

For starters, Luella’s frequently runs a special sandwich called the Pork Royale. Aptly named, this pig-stuffed behemoth features barbecued pork with a Lusty Monk Mustard sauce, a vinegary-sweet slaw, caramelized onions and — of course — bacon.

Continuing on the overindulgence train, what better way to wash that down than with a BLT Bloody Mary? This Luella’s creation has a big piece of bacon plunged into its depths and is further garnished with tomatoes, lettuce and a rim of slightly spicy salt, pepper and “secret recipe” brisket rub. It’s really not hugely different in flavor from a regular Bloody, but the bacon garnish does impart a bit of smokiness to the mix.

Luella’s is located at 501 Merrimon Ave. For more information, visit www.luellasbarbeque.com.

Ultimate Ice Cream and Two Spoons Ice Cream both carry a maple-bacon flavor. Marissa Brooks,

Crème de la crème: At the Admiral, bacon makes for an unconventional dessert. the owner of Two Scoops, says that the two recipes are essentially the same. The flavor profile is pretty simple and makes perfect sense — imagine nibbling a slice of bacon dipped into the maple syrup on your breakfast plate, then chasing it with a sip of cream. Low fat it is not, but it’s plenty tasty.

Xpress visited the French Broad Chocolate Lounge to sample a scoop and spoke with Eliza Rosbach, who was working behind the counter at the time. As though the ice cream isn’t decadent enough on its own, Rosbach says that customers are welcome to have the Lounge whip up a maple-bacon milkshake, or even a float with some of the house-made soda. “You could even,” she said somewhat impishly, “put it in a beer float with some Pisgah Porter.”

For more information on the Chocolate Lounge (10 S. Lexington Ave.), visit www.frenchbroadchocolates. com. For Ultimate Ice Cream (1070 Tunnel Road), call 296-1234. For Two Spoons Ice Cream (721 Haywood Road), visit www.twospoonsicecream.com.

The Admiral in West Asheville serves a dessert that may just be the crème de la crème of decadence. Chef Elliot Moss makes a bacon pot de crème by incorporating bacon fat from Nueske’s applewood-smoked bacon into a custard base, which is then baked in a water bath. The finished product — basically a crème brulée without the brulée — is then garnished with brown sugar, candied bacon, pecans and sea salt. It’s just as rich as you might think. According to staffers at the restaurant, the dessert is not always on the menu, but customers frequently call to find out when it will be — and for good reason.

It may be a heart attack in a dish, but what a way to go.

The Admiral is located at 400 Haywood Road.

For more information, visit www.theadmiralnc. com. X

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Thanks to Blue Ridge Food Ventures (ww. blueridgefoodventures.org), there’s an ever– increasing selection of locally made food items in Western North Carolina. Case in point: Viable Cultures’ tempeh and raw sauerkraut.

Tempeh is a soy-based product that’s high in protein and beneficial bacteria, with a firm texture and a pleasant, nutty flavor.

Brian Moe, proprietor of Viable Cultures, offers his products — part of what he calls his “palette of fermented foods,” at several local restaurants, grocery stores and farmers markets.

His raw kraut and tempeh, for example, find their way into a tempeh Reuben that the Early Girl Eatery serves. The Mellow Mushroom and the Laughing Seed also carry his products.

More accounts are soon to be added, Moe reports.

Currently, the Viable Cultures line is available at several grocery stores, including Greenlife and the French Broad Food Co-op.

Starting in late March, Moe’s tempeh and kraut will be available at several local farmers’ markets: the North Asheville tailgate market, the Wednesday-afternoon Downtown Tailgate Market next to the French Broad Co-op, and the Sunday-morning markets at Greenlife.

The earliest market starts Sunday, March 28, at Greenlife — Moe will be offering his standard local soy tempeh, as well as a specialty, all-organic, soy-black-eyed-pea tempeh. The kraut will be available, as well.

What’s more, Moe will be serving cups of his Kombucha tea — a mix fermented with the aid of a mass of microorganisms called a Kombucha culture, aka the kombucha “mother.”

Moe reports that he has had his Kombucha

mother since 2003. It is, by his account, healthy, resilient and well-traveled. Kombucha, says Moe, is “an interesting pet to have.”

For more information, visit www.viablecultures. com.

Raising the bar

The owner of the latest addition to Asheville’s bar scene has a simple philosophy for his new wine bar, 5 Walnut.

“I’m really trying to go with a laid-back, Asheville-friendly neighborhood bar, where all the pretensions you usually see in a wine bar are gone,” says Matthew Logan. “I really wanted to create a fun bar” that’s comfortable, he says.

Logan grew up outside New York City, but his mother and some of his extended family are from Knoxville, Tenn., and later moved to Asheville. “I’ve been coming to Asheville a long time,” says Logan, who notes that he may be from the big city, “but I was baptized at St. Lawrence,” Asheville’s historic basilica.

In New York, Logan worked in the food-andbeverage industry, including the Park Avenue Cafe and Smith and Wollensky Steak House.

A few years ago, he decided to make a life change and moved to Asheville. He bought the 5 Walnut building and renovated it to include four upstairs apartments and the downstairs wine bar.

The bar, just up from Scully’s on Walnut Street, has a homey feel with an original wood floor, a bar and tables topped with maple by woodworker Peter White of Boone (Logan’s cousin) and chairs by local craftsman Brian Boggs. One wall of the bar will feature a mural by well-known local artist Ben Betsalel.

The bar will feature “an abundance of quality wines” in the $5-to-$10-a-glass range, says Logan. He plans to carry mead from Fox Hill Meadery in Madison County and cider from McRitchie Winery and Ciderworks in Yadkin

County. There will be six local beers on tap, as well, and local bread, cheese, dips and spreads for snacking. “We’re trying to keep it simple and local,” Logan says.

He’s also proud of the team he’s assembled to staff his bar: Kristie Quinn, Kristin Welch and Melissa Terrezza are all familiar local faces — “the three friendliest people in Asheville,” Logan says. The new bar should be open by the end of March, he adds.

—Jason Sandford

Asheville Bread Festival rises again

On Saturday, March 20, local artisan bakers will showcase their craft at the Asheville Artisan Bread Bakers Festival. The two-part event begins with a bread tasting and sale at Greenlife Grocery from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., while hands-on workshops and lectures will take place at A-B Tech from noon to 6 p.m. The bread festival, celebrating its sixth year, remains popular with dough-slingers and gourmands alike.

According to festival organizers, in previous years the event has been “overwhelmed” with attendees eager to sample what local bakeries have to offer and perhaps learn a little about the art of baking in the process.

The featured baker at the festival this year is Lionel Vatinet, a certified Master Baker from La Farm Bakery in Cary, N.C. Vatinet was the coach for the first American team to take home the gold medal in the world baking competition, La Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie.

The contest, which is more a peaceable meeting

of the baking minds of the world than a Bobby Flay-style throw down, is widely known as the Olympics of baking. Vatinet was the first instructor at the San Fransisco Baking Institute and continues to be a highly respected teacher, consultant and writer.

In addition to Vatinet, the festival will feature presentations by noted bread mentor and author Peter Reinhart. A teacher at Johnson & Wales University, Reinhart is impressed with Asheville’s bakery scene. “Asheville and its surrounding area, with a very small population, supports more artisan bakeries than most states,” he says. “The bakeries are all small but truly artisan in the purest sense of the word.”

Jennifer Lapidus, director of the North Carolina Organic Bread Flour Project, and Emily Buehler, author of The Science of Bread, will also be on hand for the festivities. Additionally, more than a dozen local artisan bakers will be showing, sampling and selling their wares to the eager masses.

For bread enthusiasts who want to improve their baking skills, the afternoon workshops and lectures at A-B Tech’s Asheville campus are open to the public. Admission is free to all events, but space at the workshops is limited to visitors who have bought a loaf of bread at the morning bread tasting.

For the event schedule, visit the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture’s Web site and download the PDF: www.asapconnections.org/bread2010. html. X

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eatininseason

Spring has (almost) sprung

may be harvested in early spring. Chickweed can be used in place of basil in pesto, and wintercress can be tossed with other greens for a spring salad. Wild greens promote good health — cleansing the liver and kidneys and providing balance after a winter of heavy foods.

Carnivores, try chopping up ramps and adding them to ground beef for a WNC delicacy — ramp burgers. Hickory Nut Gap Farm (www. hickorynutgapfarm.com) or Crooked Creek Farms (www.foothillsfamilyfarms.org) are both great sources for local beef. Want to try something different? Imladris Farms (www.imladrisfarm.com) in Fairview is now raising rabbits in addition to growing fine berries.

Folks in these mountains have been known to prepare squirrel and coon too. I think I’ll draw the line there, but just in case you’re one of those idealistic types, shooting for “super-duper sustainable” status, get yourself a bow and arrow and hit the woods, Daniel Boone-style. Or — you could just wait for the farmers’ market.

Want to learn more about wild foods? The 35th Annual Wild Food Weekend, hosted by Wild Food Adventures, will take place April 23 to 25. For information, visit www.wildfoodadventures.com. X

On looking forward to savoring the season

Just around the corner: Ramps are a potent symbol of an Appalachian spring. photo courtesy ASAP

by Kari Brayman We’re excited to introduce a new Xpress column — Eatin’ in Season. Every other week, we’ll highlight local produce and the folks who labor to bring it to us. In the months ahead, you’ll discover what can be found at our local farmers markets and what to do with the bounty. You’ll hear about the growers who are bringing some of the finest produce and meats in the country to our local restaurants and what the chefs of those establishments are cooking up.

For our inaugural column, we’ve invited Kari Brayman to whet your appetites for the fruits of spring. Brayman is the coordinator of Crop Mob West, which you can read more about in this week’s The Dirt feature. She is also the communications director for the Carolina Farm Stewardship Organization.

As always, we invite you to participate as we develop our food section. Send any ideas you have to food@mountainx.com.

— Mackensy Lunsford

Enough’s enough

Most of us Appalachian folk are done with the colder-than-usual, snowy winter weather and ready for spring. Though some gardeners may have already planted their peas, beans or spring greens, it may seem like an eternity before anything sprouts. Seasonal eating can be a bit limited in the darker days of the year.

Fortunately, a veritable vegetable symphony is right around the corner. In the meantime, here are some local foods we can look forward to in the coming months:

Fresh from the farm

Potatoes are great, but shades of green are glorious: It’s finally time to get excited about peas, beans, asparagus, Swiss chard and spinach. Onions and salad mix line up next — and before you know it, we’ll be eating tomatoes.

Right now, local farmers are busy preparing beds, starting seeds and taking CSA subscriptions. If you haven’t signed up for a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), now is the time to get your share. A good resource for finding CSAs is the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project’s Local Food Guide, a free directory of family farms, CSAs, distributors and more. The guide can be seen online at www. buyappalachian.org and it’s distributed in print to more than 400 locations annually.

Get prepared

Sustainable eating requires consumers to be able to work with what’s available in a given season, and staying ahead of the game is the trick to enjoying local food year-round. Now’s a good time to prepare for the height of the season by considering an extra fridge to store local farm products or finally preparing that cellar to keep root veggies. Spring and summer provide a bounty, so get out the canning stuff and prepare for a harvest party. A great local resource for canning is www.pickyourown.org.

Get wild

Wild foods are abundant in Western North Carolina. We don’t need to wait for the farmers’ market to enjoy the native foods sourced right from our own backyards. Chickweed, cress, wild onions, garlic, leeks (ramps) and mint

To learn more about sustainable eating or to contact Kari Brayman, visit www.carolinafarmstewards.org.

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arts&entertainment Cirque du homemade

Asheville’s community-based Runaway Circus and the Loose Caboose

by Jake Frankel The circus is coming to town. But this isn’t Barnum & Bailey.

The Runaway Circus and the Loose Caboose performance troupe is a homegrown Asheville ensemble that incorporates “anything from unicycling to juggling to trapeze to acrobatics to slapstick, belly dancing and magic,” says organizer/performer-extraordinaire Ingrid Johnson.

“There’s a lot of heart and soul involved, and it’s wholesome.”

The all-volunteer group got its start a few years ago as a way for Johnson and her talented friends to creatively fight off the winter doldrums. “This was like, ‘Let’s, as friends, inspire each other and work on a really inspiring project for the community during a cold, dark time,’” she says. “There was one warm room in the house, and we all sat in there for hours and worked on stuff and threw together a show that was fun as crap, and we were like, ‘This is something that needs to continue happening.’”

Moved to action by the particularly cold and doldrum-inducing weather this winter (and perhaps more so by the sell-out crowds that supported them last year in their spectactular circus show at Riverside Studios), the small group has now expanded to include a team of 30 artists and “possibly a small dog, which could be almost ferocious like a lion,” reveals a very tongue-in-cheek Johnson.

The ensemble’s six upcoming shows at the Reid Center are being billed as the “Sloppy Joe Circus,” inspired by the all-too-common awkwardness of life as a middle-school student. The sloppy joe is “a symbol of the lunchroom cafete-

who:

The Runaway Circus and the Loose Caboose

what:

Family-friendly, all-ages performance of Sloppy Joe Circus

where:

The Reid Center (133 Livingston St., Asheville)

when:

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, March 19 to March 28 (Fridays & Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. with a 12:30 p.m. parade leaving from the French Broad Coop at 12:30 p.m. prior to the March 28 show. $10 donation, no one turned away. runawaycircus.com) ria,” says Johnson. “Middle school brings up a certain feeling, like a gag reflex,” she explains with a laugh. “Maybe not everyone sees it this way, but personally I feel like middle school, man, those were some rough times — I think a lot us can remember those times so freshly, like, ‘Remember when I got milk thrown at me?’ I love bringing things up that are somewhat uncomfortable but then laughing at them, because what else are you going to do?”

In addition to contributing funny stories from her early adolescence to the shows, Johnson and other core members of the company bring a decade of experience in the circus arts. Local trapeze maestro Sadye Osterloh studied exten-

What the circus is about: “It’s a magical time,” explains Runaway Circus co-founder Ingrid Johnson. “You’re just there, you’re laughing and you’re in awe.” photos by jonathan welch

The circus features acrobatics, juggling, tricks and feats, and a savvy musical soundtrack.

52 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

sively at the Circus Center in San Francisco and now teaches private classes and directs the annual Beaverdam YMCA Youth Circus.

Johnson studied and taught juggling, clowning and acrobatics at CircEsteem in Chicago and currently teaches classes at ArtSpace Charter School and Warren Wilson College (where, as a student, she founded the annual Hootenanny Circus). Her passion for performing and teaching has taken her throughout the U.S. and as far away as refugee camps in Palestine and community centers in Israel, where she helped lead programs that brought Israeli and Palestinian children together to work on circus projects.

“We weren’t bringing up any political issues.

We were just bringing two groups of people together for a common goal: to put on a show and learn,” Johnson says of her time in the Middle East. “And sometimes that really works. I think dialogue happened around that

— you end up talking about things and becoming friends.”

In a similar spirit of community building, Johnson hopes the Runaway Circus will continue to grow, and that the upcoming performances will inspire more people to get involved with the circus arts in Asheville and to express themselves in general.

“Folks are like, ‘I don’t know what I could do in the circus,’ and the next year they’re doing awesome stuff. We want to give the idea to kids that there’s not a wall here, there’s this awesome thing that we’re creating and they can be a part of it too,” she says. “You just come into this space and you’re just like, ‘Wow!’ — it’s a magical time, where you’re just there, you’re laughing, and you’re in awe. I want it to be inspiring for people because that what it was for me.” X Jake Frankel is an Asheville-based freelance writer.

arts

X

music

Piping hot Scotland’s traditional-meets-modern Battlefield Band returns to Asheville

Story Improv theatre at the BeBe theatre

by Alli Marshall Bagpipes have a distinctive sound — that reedy, pulse-racing, ear-splitting squawk; equal parts drone and melody — that make them hard to mistake and easy to classify. And, as Battlefield Band piper Mike Katz notes, “The standard dance forms for traditional bagpipe music, we’re quite lucky in that there’s probably about four or five different rhythms. It’s not millions and millions of things, so when you try to make up tunes, your hands just come up with things.”

But there’s really nothing standard about Katz’s composition “The Mines of Golkonda” which leads off Battlefield Band’s most recent album, Zama Zama Try Your Luck (Temple Records) and is “kind of like a Bhangra track, Punjabi dance music.”

The tune is inspired both by the Bollywoodstyle tunes popularized by Slumdog Millionaire and the diamond markets in the Indian city of Golkonda: Wealth in all of its iterations informs Zama Zama. So, even with its base in traditional Scottish music (Battlefield Band formed in 1969 and is now in its fifth decade of forwarding folk music), the album draws inspirations from Hawaii, Africa, Central America and even WNC in the form of Nina Simone’s “Plain Gold Ring.”

Actually, Battlefield Band — whose motto is “Forward with Scotland’s Past” — was performing world music before the term was coined.

“Now, young people play [Scottish music] and you can learn it in school, but 30 years ago it was different because the country was much more homogeneous,” Katz explains. “Now it’s normal if you play it in Scotland.”

He adds, “Bands like this have forged the way for people to play acoustic music in a language that’s pretty communal.” And while bagpipes — not to mention some of Battlefield Band’s other exotic instruments: whistle, bouzouki, accordion — might not be familiar in, say, China, Katz points out that the band meets with a positive response around the world.

“Uzbekistan was our most famous crazy trip. ... We’ve been to a couple of unusual places, and when you meet people they tend to be pretty cool.” (Of that 2003 tour, keyboardist/vocalist Alan Reid wrote in the group’s online tour blog, “We had heard that one of the most famous Uzbek performers was present and wanted to

who:

Battlefield Band

what:

Scottish band with a 40-year history of ancient and modern fusion

where:

Diana Wortham Theatre

when:

Friday, March 19 (8 p.m., $30, $28 seniors, $25 students, $12 children. dwtheatre.org)

Friday, march 19th @ 8pm

proceeds to Benefit haiti relief “expect the unexpected.”

– Mountain Xpress, Sept. ‘09

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Trying their luck: Scotland’s Battlefield Band (with American piper Mike Katz, in beard) has been pushing the boundaries of traditional music for more than 40 years. photo by simon hollington

sing. He doesn’t appear too much in public anymore for some reason, so it was an honor that Sher Ali was there to hear us, and to sing a song or two. So after a few numbers we introduced him.

Suddenly from nowhere a band of five musicians leapt on stage, playing traditional Uzbeki instruments.”)

The bagpiper cuts an apt (if reluctant) figure as a world-music spokesman. Born in Los Angeles, Katz moved to Scotland in 1987 and a decade later joined Battlefield Band as its first full-time American player. (The group has had a number of lineup changes during its tenure — with alumni such as guitarist Pat Kilbride and bouzouki player Jamie McMenemy going on to prominent solo careers — though founding member Reid has remained a constant figure.) Katz now speaks with a Scottish lilt, though he says he “doesn’t think much about being too precious about countries” — indeed, Katz has “certainly spent more time touring around the states since I’ve been in the band than I ever did when I lived in the states.”

(Of the band’s turn at last October’s LEAF festival, Katz blogged, “The Lake Eden Arts Festival is a great event held at what is now a sort of holiday camp outside Black Mountain, N.C. but was initially, I am informed, a sort of retreat set up by former Bauhaus artists who had come over from Germany. The festival is brilliant and we are ably looked after by all the folk there, most notably Steve Thompson, but also all of the WNCW 88.7 boys and the Pisgah organic brewery.”)

That sort of broad world view is captured in Zama Zama, which possesses political themes enhanced by the worldwide economic crisis. The album’s title comes from a newspaper article about a group of South African illegal gold min-

ers. Tunes like “The Auchengeich Disaster” (about a mining accident) are straightforward in their intent. Other,s like Katz’s composition “Counting Cowries” — inspired by the ancient use of cowrie shells as currency — or fiddler Alasdair White’s “Eadar I’s Leodhas,” for his mother on her retirement, are more conceptual.

“We didn’t really intend to make a big, heavy, political record,” Katz notes. And to hear the songs performed live, the listener can almost overlook the heavy themes — especially given the group’s humorous banter and energetic delivery.

Still, there’s a legacy to sad songs that Battlefield Band must uphold. Says Katz, “Some of the best traditional songs are pretty miserable. It’s much easier to have emotional import in a song that has these kind of themes than if you were constantly writing songs about the sunset.” X Alli Marshall can be reached at amarshall@ mountainx.com.

Cbuumf!pg! uif!Cboet Nbsdi!42tu!¦!:qn 35!Cboet! pwfs!6!Xfflt ÓUif!Wjmmbhf!pg!Gmbu!Spdl! xjmm!Spdl"Ô Call 828.697.6828 for info or email

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mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 53

arts

X

film

Raising awareness for the cause — and the arts, and the music PhilanthroPEAK wraps filming with a six-hour multimedia extravaganza

by Dane Smith Last year, Chris Gaspar had an inspired idea:: spotlight the diverse and thriving philanthropic movement in Asheville through the eyes of local artists, musicians, business people and activists. The result: PhilanthroPEAK, a documentary highlighting the efforts of local outreach programs and the people who drive them. The hope, Gaspar says, is not only to raise awareness for the various causes, but also to introduce Asheville to a national audience.

Gaspar had been living in Asheville for several years and was about to film Brooklyn rockers The Hold Steady at a California event for Worcester, Mass.-based nonprofit Concepts4Charity. “We were going to put a lot of money towards that,” he recalls, “and I was like, ‘Listen, there are a lot of cool things going on [in Asheville].’” So Gaspar and Concepts4Charity enlisted the services of a number of local companies — including Bourne Media, American Green, Acapella Audio and Stellar Media — and began production on PhilanthroPEAK. Now, with the shooting phase (which has been underway for about a year) drawing to a close, Concepts4Charity is hosting a six-hour fundraiser — PhilanthroPEAK Live — at the Diana Wortham Theatre, featuring live music (Aaron Price with Kellin Watson, Woody Wood, Jar-e, Underhill Rose, The Secret B-Sides and Jenny Greer of Jen and the Juice), comedians Scotch Tomedy, visual artists, theatrical performances, interactive displays from the Bob Moog Foundation and a ceramics demonstration by local author and artist Shay Amber. Local nonprofits will also be on hand with information about their organizations. Basically, says Gaspar, this is the “capstone event,” complete with film crews on hand to capture the entire evening.

The film itself features many of those artists, performing and speaking about causes they support. PhilanthroPEAK Live headliner Kellin Watson says she’s grateful for the opportunity to raise awareness for such a wide range of causes, two of which are especially close to her heart.

“I’ve always been a big supporter of breast cancer awareness,” Watson says. “I’ve lost a friend, and then both my grandmothers had breast cancer, so that was something that was always important to me. And also, the music in public schools programs are something that I’m always behind, because there was such a cut in funding in the last eight years. And that’s what Concepts4Charity seems to be about, putting it back into schools.”

Watson is right. Since 2003, the organization has been funding and operating after-school music programs in several states, with the goal of using

who:

PhilanthroPEAK Live

what:

Multimedia event featuring artists and charities featured in forthcoming film, including Aaron Price with Kellin Watson, Woody Wood, Jar-e, Underhill Rose, The Secret B-Sides, Jenny Greer, Scotch Tomedy and more

where:

Diana Wortham Theatre

when:

Saturday, March 20 (5 p.m., $10 advance/$15 at the door. concepts4charity.org/ events/87)

Working it out: Filmmaker Kurt Mann shoots for PhilanthroPEAK, a film highlighting the efforts of local outreach programs and the people who drive them. connections made through PhilanthroPEAK to establish a hip-hop culture program at Asheville High. Already, the newly founded Asheville chapter of Concepts4Charity has received permission to implement such a program, which officially launches next year. Proceeds from the film will in part go towards funding that program, says Concepts4Charity’s national director Kaleem Clarkson.

“It utilizes community artists as educators as well as performers to come in after school,” he explains. “Basically, these students have an opportunity to pick a discipline, whether it is break-dance, rapping, singing and songwriting or poetry. What we do is bring in guest artists to teach those different elements.”

According to press for PhilanthroPEAK Live, Concepts4Charity is “devoted to raising awareness for community issues through sports and the arts.

PhilanthroPEAK will be a story that takes action by discussing ideas for developing grassroots projects in Western North Carolina, while also promoting the goodwill and concerns of the local community.”

The project really sought to get to the heart of local needs, dreams and goals from the beginning, when organizers rented a cabin in Leicester and sent out an “open invitation” for those involved to stay the entire weekend and share their stories in a relaxed, communal environment. The strategy, says filmmaker David Bourne, was a success, and it yielded some spectacular footage. Expect a similarly open approach at the PhilanthroPEAK Live event.

“We’ll get some interviews out in the audience and film some folks,” says Bourne. “Because there are tons of people in Asheville who will come out to support a cause and do it by listening to this great music.” Whether you’re looking to get more involved with local outreach or you’re just in it to have a good time, come check out what PhilanthroPEAK Live has to offer. You might even end up in the movie. X Dane Smith can be reached at rocknrolldane@gmail.com.

54 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

arts

X

music

Veteran cosmic rockers

For the Moody Blues, building the set list is a question of balance

by Bill Kopp Forty-three years after the release of the symphonic-rock classic Days of Future Passed, the Moody Blues are still at it, regularly touring their music to concert halls worldwide.

Three members of the classic-era quintet still remain: Justin Hayward (guitar, vocals), John Lodge (bass, vocals) and drummer/vocalist Graeme Edge. The three men — all now in their sixties — tour frequently with three additional members, helping to recreate the band’s lush studio aesthetic.

The band has released only one album of new material in the 21st century (2003’s Christmas). Edge allows that the Moodys would “love for somebody to come along and sign the band to a recording contract.” He says that they’re “in permanent negotiations, but there’s nothing on the horizon.”

During the ‘60s and ‘70s, Edge says, “we’d spend a month in the studio, and let [album ideas and concepts] grow in there, and have an organic feel to it.” But today’s market is different: “Small independent labels, they want you in and out of the studio in three hours.”

He marvels that some labels “start wanting a piece of the road action.” Edge cites several labels’ policy of demanding 10 percent of a band’s touring revenue; they use the argument that albums are merely “loss leaders to get people to the concerts.” His position: “They ain’t gonna get that” from the Moody Blues.

So instead, the band puts its effort into live performance. The bulk of a Moody Blues concert audience is baby boomers eager to relive their youth, if only for a few hours.

But Edge notes that “we see a sprinkling of younger people throughout the audience,

who:

The Moody Blues

where:

Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

when:

Sunday, March 21 (8 p.m. $66, $48.50.

Civic Center box office, 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com)

which makes us feel very happy.” He quotes Justin Hayward’s explanation of why younger people might find the Moodys’ music appealing: “They’re the same age we were when we wrote the songs.”

In recent years, there have been several live tours re-creating classic albums from the psychedelic era. Besides Brian Wilson’s highprofile tours, Love’s Arthur Lee performed 1967’s Forever Changes in concert worldwide.

And in 2008 the Zombies performed their

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1968 album Odessey and Oracle [sic] to wide acclaim. The Moody Blues’ Days of Future Passed seems ripe for such a treatment. Would the Moodys go that route?

“We have considered it,” Edge admits, “but there’s a problem: We wouldn’t have somebody else sing a Mike Pinder song. It wouldn’t be right; there’s a phoniness to that.

So we’d rather present a nice mix-and-match from all of the records.”

Keyboardist, singer and Mellotron wizard Mike Pinder lost his taste for touring and retired from the band in 1978; flautist/vocalist Ray Thomas retired for health reasons in 2002.

A highlight of the current tour is the VIP Package. In addition to a seat at the show, VIP purchasers get a pre-show audience with the band. “It’s a new idea; I’m a bit nervous about it,” Edge admits. “We’ll come out and answer questions. The promoter says, ‘What you’ve got to do is just tell them some amusing stories from on the road.’” After a pregnant pause, Edge bursts into laughter and says, “I don’t know if I’ll be able to say those; there might be some young people there!”

A typical 21st-century Moody Blues concert includes all the hits, but the band balances those with a selection of deep album cuts for the hardcore fans. “There’s the big six — as we call them – that we have to play,” Edge says. “And I agree with people; we should play them. I’m not one of those people that says, ‘I’m so bored with playing those.’

My whole life was changed by ‘Nights in White Satin,’ and I love it every night.

“During certain songs — ‘Tuesday Afternoon,’ or one of the old big favorites

— I love to look down into the audience,” Edge explains. “As we start the song, I’ll see people lean in to each other and openly say, ‘Oh, I love this one.’ You draw energy from that, and use it in the show. Every one of us is an old ham; we love playing live.

“But we’re always polishing the diamond, as we say. We’re often putting a ‘new-old song’ into the show; every time we go out on tour, we probably put five or six new-old ones in. I’m lobbying to get ‘Gypsy’ [from 1969’s To Our Children’s Childrens’ Children] into the show; we haven’t played that for awhile. I can show off on the drums a bit on that one, y’know.” Pausing conspiratorially, Edge adds, “Which I enjoy.” X

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Bill Kopp is an Asheville-based music journalist whose features and reviews can be found at blog.billkopp.com and musoscribe.com.

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 55

arts

X

music

Defined by faith

Former Pedro the Lion frontman David Bazan gets more visceral

by Dane Smith

www.amerifolk.com 64 Biltmore Avenue • Downtown Asheville 828.281.2134 Open 7 Days a Week

“It’s just such an uncool set of topics to write a record about,” indie singer/songwriter David Bazan says, self-deprecatingly, of his latest effort, Curse Your Branches (Barsuk, 2009).

Religion permeates the album, and while Seattle-based Bazan acknowledges that the subject can get “way up its own ass” and says it is not necessarily the “brand name” he’d like to be associated with, it’s something that he can’t seem to escape. Biblical references appear throughout his extensive body of recordings — Bazan was the principle member of indie-rock band Pedro the Lion and the experimental electronic three-piece Headphones — and the matter is inevitably brought up during the nightly Q&A sessions he holds with fans between songs at his shows.

“It’s kind of silly for me to have those feelings because it’s what I’m defined by at almost every turn,” he admits. “In the end I became cool with that aspect of it. It’s stuff that I’m obsessed with, that I’m endlessly interested in.”

Bazan, who began with a relatively “devout faith,” explains that his views have shifted

56 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

over time to a “faith in a few different things and a few opposite things.” And the transition is apparent in his recordings. Throughout Curse Your Branches, the singer takes a more confrontational approach than he has in the past, railing against the traditional idea of God as an omnipresent father figure. (In fact, a review by Chicago Reader described the album as “a harrowing breakup record — except he’s dumping God.”) “If you knew what would happen,” Bazan declares on “When We Fell,” “and made us just the same / Then you my Lord can take the blame.” Similarly, Bazan explores the consequences of losing faith and its practical implications on “Heavy Breath”: “Is a ship without a captain just as doomed / As a ship without a crew,” he asks, “Cause of all my friends who try to tell the truth / There are still a faithful few who insist they won’t know what to do / If no heavy breath blew up these lungs.”

“People criticize and say, ‘Well you’re talking to God, how can you not believe that he exists? You can’t really have it both ways.’ But on a lyrical level,” Bazan explains, “I’m using the device of speaking to the person of God to debunk a human institution’s claims about God. “On ‘In Stitches,’ it says, ‘When Job asked you the question / You responded who are you / To question your creator / Well if that one part is true,’” he says. “Like, if this testimony about you is true, then you’re a f--ing a--hole. It’s a dependent clause. And there’s a lot of that going on on the record.

“Again, I think that highlights the vague and constantly shifting nature of the person and personality of the ostensible creator of the universe. Everybody’s got a slightly different take on who he is, and they all claim that theirs is the right one.”

Now, Bazan is bringing his take to a club near you. And although he spent the last four years touring solo after disbanding Pedro the Lion in 2006 (going so far as releasing a DVD of performances and interviews titled Alone at the Microphone), this time around he’s enlisted a full band for a “more visceral, kind of exciting” experience.

So exciting, in fact, that he took the band into the Champagne, Ill., studio of legendary producer Steve Albini (Nirvana, The Pixies) and spent 12 hours recording a handful of songs for what would become Bazan: Live at Electrical Audio. The record, which was released earlier this moth, includes tracks from various projects spanning his career and was recorded live with no overdubs. His only complaint about the session?

“We really needed that day off as a day off.

But instead of having a day off to chill out, we worked five times harder than we did any other day on tour. We recorded 16 tunes in one day. It was incredibly long. The last two hours ... those guys are champions.”

who:

David Bazan, with Headlights

what:

Lyrical/narrative singer/songwriter

where:

The Grey Eagle

when:

Thursday, March 18 (8:30 p.m., $12. thegreyeagle.com, davidbazan.com) But while the return to a full band format has been a nice change of pace, Bazan will always have a soft spot for acoustic solo performances, especially the living room shows he began playing last year. What started out of necessity, he says, became one of his favorite outlets as a performer and helped hone his craft.

After agreeing, at the behest of his record label, to refrain from touring until the release of Curse Your Branches, Bazan found himself itching to get back to performing, so came up with a compromise. Why not play small living room shows at fans’ houses until then? And when the label gave him their blessings, he put the plan into full effect.

“I played the shit out of some house shows last year,” he says. “I think I did 80 or so. And they are great. They’re really intimate, and it’s kind of exhilarating. You’re either playing well and making everything work right, or you’re not. So having done a lot of them, I’m getting used to being able to at least pull of the rudiments of what I’m doing somewhat expertly.” X Dane Smith can be reached at rocknrolldane@ gmail.com.

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 57

The Asheville Choral Society and Music Director Lenora Thom present Carl Orff’s dramatic masterpiece:

CARMINA BURANA

8p.m. March 20 and 4p.m. March 21 at Central United Methodist Church

TICKETS $20 / $10

smartbets WCU’s Spring Literary Festival

Like so many robins returning to northern climes, an array of authors (ranging in genre from fiction, memoirs and poetry to plays and children’s books) descend on the Cullowhee campus of Western Carolina University for a four-day springtime literary throw-down. Readings take place Monday, March 22, through Thursday, March 25 (for a complete schedule, visit litfestival.org) and include short-story writer Jill McCorkle (pictured), novelist and playwright Silas House and Chitra Divakaruni, who retells an ancient Indian epic in her work. All events are free.

For concert tickets, visit us online at www.ashevillechoralsociety.org or call (828) 232-2060 With chamber orchestra and guest soloists:

ASHEVILLE CHORAL SOCIETY

Bands for Kids’ Sake

Now in its fourth year, Bands for Kids’ Sake teams up local musicians with iconic playlists while raising both funds and awareness for mentoring program Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC. This year, The Cheeksters (pictured), Wooden Toothe, If You Wannas, The Steves and Dave Desmelik perform the songs of Willie Nelson, The Cars, Velvet Underground, Weezer, Tom Petty, Rush, The Clash and more. (Past years have turned out some not-to-be-missed pairings, including Nevada covering Velvet Underground, The Broomstars as Neil Young & Crazy Horse and The Cheeksters — in full costume — doing David Bowie.) The show is Saturday, March 20, 7 p.m. at the Grey Eagle. $10 at the door. bbbswnc.org.

2009 - 2010

Anne O'Byrne soprano

Stephen Bryant bass - baritone

Tony A. Burdette tenor

CONCERT SEASON

MUSIC DIRECTOR, LENORA THOM

The Boxcar Children at ACT

“Orphaned and in danger of being sent to different foster homes, four siblings run away and make their home in an abandoned railroad boxcar,” is the tag line for The Boxcar Children, the current play at Asheville Community Theatre.

But these Depression-era adventures are more about high spirits and hijinx than hand times, and the show is, in fact, child-friendly. This production features Bryce Lotz, Jean Louise Webb, Sarah Plaut and Sam Bible-Sullivan, and is also a food drive for Manna Food Bank and Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Bring a can and be entered in a drawing for a 2010-2011 season subscription. Shows run through Sunday, March 21. Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. $22 adults, $19 seniors and students, $12 children. ashevilletheatre.org.

Club phone numbers are listed in Clubland in the (828) area code unless otherwise stated; more details at www. mountainx.com/clubland. Send your Smart Bet requests in to ae@mountainx.com for consideration by the Monday the week prior to publication.

58 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

clubland

where to find the clubs â&#x20AC;˘ what is playing â&#x20AC;˘ listings for venues throughout Western North Carolina C lubland rules â&#x20AC;˘To qualify for a free listing, a venue must be predominately dedicated to the performing arts. Bookstores and cafĂŠs with regular open mics and musical events are also allowed. â&#x20AC;˘To limit confusion, events must be submitted by the venue owner or a representative of that venue. â&#x20AC;˘Events must be submitted in written form by e-mail (clubland@mountainx.com), fax, snail mail or hand-delivered to the Clubland Editor Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt at 2 Wall St., Room 209, Asheville, NC 28801.

Events submitted to other staff members are not assured of inclusion in Clubland. â&#x20AC;˘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. â&#x20AC;˘The Clubland Editor reserves the right to edit or exclude events or venues. â&#x20AC;˘Deadline is by noon on Monday for that Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publication. This is a firm deadline.

Wed., March 17

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Open mic

BoBo Gallery

Herb & Hanson (acoustic, Americana) Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone

Shag dance

Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s Night, 10pm Craggie Brewing Company

St. Pattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day celebration w/ Lew Gelfond & Roger Gold (Irish fiddle, guitar) Diana Wortham Theater

Dance & open jam session Back Room

Open mic Beacon Pub

Open jam

Wed. 3/17 Thur.

3/18 Fri. 3/19

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Stella Blue

St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day show w/ The Red Wellies (Celtic, acoustic) Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Aaron Woody Wood (soul, pop) Mo-Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar & Grill

Soul jazz jam w/ members of Vertigo Jazz Project, Stephanieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ID

Nine Mile

Emerald Lounge

St. Pattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day celebration w/ The Trainwreks (rock, country, blues) Fairview Tavern

Saint Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day feat: Damon Fowler Group (blues) Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter) Utah Green (lyrical, roots) Good Stuff

Open mic

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

The Hellblinki Cripps Puppet Spectacular (music, puppetry, multimedia)

The Hellblinki Cripps Puppet Spectacular 8:30pm David Bazan w/ Headlights 8:30pm Hockey w/ The Postelles 9pm

saT. 3/20 Big Brothers Big Sisters Benefit sun. Joyful Noise Students 2:30pm 3/21 Hot Club of Cowtown 8pm Wed. 3/24

Jupiter One & Heypenny w/ Kyle Andrews 8:30pm

Thurs.

3/25

Pierce Edens & Erika Jane 9pm Soulgrass Rebellion w/ Bobby Lee Rogers & Now You See Them 9pm

BoBo Gallery

Scandals Nightclub

Marc Keller (singer/songwriter)

Eleven on Grove

Zydeco dance & lessons

Chester Face Country dance lessons, 9-10pm Dance, 10pm-Midnight

Hollandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grille

New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Bands for Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sake 2010:

Fri. 3/26

Kool Keith (rap, hip-hop) w/ Deaf Judges

Danny Ellis (singer/songwriter) & LEAF International Reception

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Club 828

Handlebar

St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day DJ dance night Ras Berhane (acoustic, reggae) Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On Main

St. Pattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day party feat: The New Celtic Knot Band (Scottish, Celtic, folk), 4-8pm Irish karaoke Orange Peel

G. Love & Special Sauce (roots, hip-hop, blues) w/ Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

DJ Chubbyknuckles (hip-hop, â&#x20AC;&#x153;beats for the soulâ&#x20AC;?)

Boiler Room

St. Pattyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party w/ Baby Cowboy (roots, acoustic) & Lyndsay Wojcik

The Winter Sounds (indie, rock) w/ Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun & Albatross Party (other)

Tallgaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Street Pub

Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone

St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day party

Open mic & jam

The Hookah Bar

Club 828

Open mic w/ rotating local hosts

Hip-hop & DJ night

Tolliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossing Irish Pub

Courtyard Gallery

Town Pump

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Tressaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Eleven on Grove

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s night

Payinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Rent (bluegrass)

Jazz piano w/ Garnell Stuart

The Free Flow Band (soul, funk) Vincenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro

Steve Whiddon (piano, vocals) Westville Pub

Vortex Cabaret (music, burlesque & more) Emerald Lounge

Archnemesis (electro-crunk) Fairview Tavern

Open mic

St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party (all day) Jamminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; w/ Funky Max

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Dedrick Live (soul, r&b)

Thu., March 18

Red Stag Grill

Athenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club

Rocket Club

Back Room

Open mic hosted by Jimbo

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Super dance partyâ&#x20AC;? feat: Adam Strange & Crick Nice DJ Root Bar No. 1

Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter)

DJ night

Fredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parkside Pub & Grill

Herb & Hanson (acoustic duo) Buddy Davis

Open 4 - 9pm Mon. - Wed. 2pm - until Thurs. - Sat.

Open mic w/ Barbie Angell

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hits & Shitsâ&#x20AC;? w/ Jamie Hepler

Bobby Sullivan (blues, rock, standards)

Thur., Mar. 18th Shane Pruitt Band 8pm Fri., Mar. 19th The Screaming Jays 8pm

Utah Green (lyrical, roots)

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3T 0ATRICK´S $AY 0ARTY with

Damon Fowler PM #OVER -F> $;CLPC?Q 0>

232-5800 www.thegreyeagle.com 185 Clingman Ave.

(Next to Home Depot)

mountainx.com â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 59

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Eliza Bell Rosbach (singer/songwriter, folk, indie)

Mon. Tues. thurSDay, march 18 Free!

Paul Cataldo duo ClassiC Country roots

WING NIGHT 5-11 pm

FAT TuesdAy

all u Can Eat Jambalaya & Blues $2 domestics and $5.50 bombs

TRIVIA NIGHT

Thur.

SaturDay, march 20

sirsy

starts at 9 pm

Fiery sultry indie PoP

amelia White a F r lt

olk

oCker

Sat.

SaturDay, march 27

the

looters

- WeD. -

Featuring the

with Funky Max

Blues Jam Westville All Stars hosted by Mars

Jammin’

‘80s KARAoKe

Sun. Sunday Bloody Sunday $4.50 Bloody Marys

Blues, Funk, Jam

- tueS. -

LIVe MusIc

Fri.

thurSDay, march 25 Free!

- Fri. -

Blue Mountain Bust Down (rock, blues) w/ Bubonik Funk Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

David Bazan (rock, folk, alternative) w/ Headlights Handlebar

Zach Deputy (blues, roots-rock, soul) w/ Wisebird Infusions Lounge

Live music

Iron Horse Station

Open mic w/ Yorky

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Bluegrass Jam, 7pm

Laurey’s Catering and Gourmet To Go

Jenna Lindbo (singer/songwriter), 6-8pm Lobster Trap

Trivia Night with Prizes 9pm

733 Haywood Rd. • West Asheville (on the corner of Brevard & Haywood Rd.)

828-505-2129

IRISH PUB

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828-258-9652 99 New Leicester Hwy.

(3miles west of Downtown -off Patton Ave.)

60 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Town Pump

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Ghost Mountain Rhythm and Blues (soul, blues) Rotating jazz bands

Diana Wortham Theater

Battlefield Band (Celtic) Eleven on Grove

Emerald Lounge

Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe

Enemy Lovers (rock, indie) w/ Zealots Feed and Seed

Carolina Blue (bluegrass) Firestorm Cafe and Books

Carol Rifkin & Paul’s Creek Band (old-time, vintage bluegrass) White Horse

The Business (dance band)

Sat., March 20

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Asheville Civic Center

Leigh Glass Band (Americana)

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Juan Holladay w/ Eliza Sydney (guitar, vocals, harp) Funny Business Comedy Club

Garage at Biltmore

Belly dancing

Bobby Sullivan (piano)

Reasons (punk, rock)

Mack Kell’s Pub & Grill Mela

Rupert Wates (acoustic, jazz) & Dave Turner, 7pm Taylor Moor and the Bordeaux Brothers (blues), 10pm Vincenzo’s Bistro

Hank Bones

Marc Keller (acoustic, variety)

Phuncle Sam (jam band, psychedelic)

Salsa & Mambo Dancing, 10pm-2am Dance Lessons, 10:30pm

J. Chris Newberg (comedian) w/ Brian Aldridge, 8 & 10:30pm Resounding Silence CD release party (metal) w/ Shadoline & Sought Out Stranger Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Home Show

Athena’s Club

DJ night

Back Room

Brian McGee and the Hollow Speed (rock, country) Beacon Pub

Michelle Leigh (Southern rock) w/ August Black Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Paul Cataldo (Americana, country)

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Jackass Flats (bluegrass)

Hockey (new wave, soul, classic rock) w/ The Postelles

Never Blue

Handlebar

Boiler Room

Kelen Heller (rock, powerhouse) w/ Nothing Saint & Dear Enemy

You Tonight (indie, rock) w/ Noise In Print (post punk, indie, shoegaze)

Highland Brewing Company

Broadway’s

Singer/songwriter showcase New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Boy in Sleep (tropical, electro, folk) w/ Javi

Smoke-Free Pub • Pool & DartS 777 Haywood Road • 225-wPUB (9782)

e Need som

Garage at Biltmore

Chameleon Soul Food

Orange Peel

East Coast Dirt (rock)

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

The Krektones (instrumental rock) w/ Rubber Cushions

George Thorogood and the Destroyers (blues, rock) w/ Damon Fowler

Holland’s Grille

Pisgah Brewing Company

Infusions Lounge

Purple Onion Cafe

Iron Horse Station

Red Stag Grill

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Sean Carney (rockabilly, blues)

“PhilanthroPEAK Live” feat: Aaron Price & Kellin Watson, Woody Wood, Jar-e & more (music, visual arts, theatrical performances)

Rock Bottom Sports Bar & Grill

Jerusalem Garden

Eleven on Grove

Root Bar No. 1

Lobster Trap

Scandals Nightclub

Luella’s Bar-B-Que

Kate McNally (Americana, singer/songwriter)

East Coast Dirt CD release party (progressive, experimental) w/ Zegg

TGI Friday’s

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Fairview Tavern

Shane Pruitt Band (blues, jam)

Gigi Dover & Big Love (rock, soul) Anne Coombs (jazz, swing) Kemistry (Southern rock, covers) Coal Dust

“Exposure” DJ night Open mic

The 170 La Cantinetta

Dave Lagadi (smooth jazz)

Free Flight (classic rock) Southern Silk Duo (jazz, blues), 7:30-10:30pm Butter Holler (“old mountain sound”)

Belly dancing w/ live music “Ring in the Spring” w/ live music & more

Hot Politics (funk, soul, jazz) w/ Funkuponya (groove) New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Peggy Ratusz and Friends (blues)

Knives & Daggers (experimental, indie) w/ Gray Young & Nights Bright Colors

Vincenzo’s Bistro

O’Malley’s On Main

Aaron LaFalce (acoustic guitar, singer/songwriter) Westville Pub

Paul Cataldo Duo (Americana, country) Zuma Coffee

Caleb Burress (vocals, guitar) Orange Peel

Jamey Johnson (country) & Jerrod Niemann Pisgah Brewing Company

The Screaming Jays (rock, blues)

Thursday night bluegrass jam

Purple Onion Cafe

Fri., March 19

Red Stag Grill

Asheville Civic Center

Home Show

Athena’s Club

DJ night

Fred Whisken (jazz pianist) Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues) Rendezvous Restaurant & Bar

Smoking Sections (classic rock) Stella Blue

Craggie Brewing Company

Aaron LaFalce (alternative, acoustic) Decades Restaurant & Bar

42nd Street Jazz Band

Diana Wortham Theater

Muse (music, dance, comedy & fashion presented by WNC students) Emerald Lounge

Twist Of Fate (rock, metal) Feed and Seed

The Neighbors w/ Generation Gap Firestorm Cafe and Books

Josh Carland (singer/songwriter) Frankie Bones

Scott Raines (singer/songwriter) French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Dave Desmelik (Americana)

Funny Business Comedy Club

J. Chris Newberg (comedian) w/ Brian Aldridge, 8 & 10:30pm Garage at Biltmore

Restrict This (punk) w/ Corporate Fandango Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Bands For Kids’ Sake/Big Brothers Big Sisters Benefit feat: Cheeksters, If You Wannas, Wooden Toothe, The Steves & more

Back Room

Ten Toe Turbo (rock, reggae, funk)

The Good Old Boyz (Southern rock, country) w/ Rafe Hollister & Hay Sugar

Infusions Lounge

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Straightaway Café

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Tallgary’s College Street Pub

BoBo Gallery

The Hookah Bar

Mark Bumgarner (Americana)

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm Nomad in the Dark (progressive, house) Boiler Room

Automag (hard rock) w/ mindshapefist (Southern rock) & 105 Howitzer

FreeGrass Revival (Americana, bluegrass) Large Lewis (rock, blues)

Live music

Garry Segal & ToDyeFor Band (Americana, bluegrass, blues) Jerusalem Garden

Belly dancing w/ live music

Saint Solitude CD release show (garage, indie) w/ City in Fiction & Kovacs & the Polar Bear (indie, folk)

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

DJ Olof & DJ Joshu

Live music w/ singer-songwriters

Blue Dragons (experimental, folk, rock) New French Bar Courtyard Cafe Nine Mile

clubdirectory Complete clubland directory: www.mountainx.com/clubland. Questions or errors? E-mail (clubland@mountainx.com).

The 170 La Cantinetta 687-8170 Asheville Ale House 505-3550 Asheville Civic Center & Thomas Wolfe Auditorium 259-5544 Athenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club 252-2456 The Back Room 697-6828 Barleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tap Room 255-0504 Beacon Pub 686-5943 The Blackbird 669-5556 Blue Mountain Pizza 658-8777 BoBo Gallery 254-3426 Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone 684-1024 Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 285-0400 Cancun Mexican Grill 505-3951 Club 828 252-2001 Club Hairspray 258-2027 Courtyard Gallery 273-3332 Craggie Brewing Company 254-0360 Curras Dom 253-2111 Decades Restaurant & Bar 254-0555 Desoto Lounge 986-4828

Diana Wortham Theater 257-4530 Dockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant 883-4447 The Dripolator 398-0209 Ed Boudreauxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bayou BBQ 296-0100 Elaineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dueling Piano Bar 252-2711 Eleven on Grove 505-1612 Emerald Lounge 232- 4372 Fairview Tavern 277-7117 Feed & Seed + Jamas Acoustic 216-3492 Firestorm Cafe 255-8115 Five Fifty Three 631-3810 Frankie Bones 274-7111 Fredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parkside Pub & Grill 281-0920 French Broad Brewery Tasting Room 277-0222 Funny Business Comedy Club 318-8909 The Garage 505-2663 Good Stuff 649-9711 Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern 232-5800 Grove House Eleven on Grove 505-1612

T O

The Grove Park Inn 252-2711 Guadalupe Cafe 586-9877 The Handlebar (864) 233-6173 The Hangar 684-1213 Havana Restaurant 252-1611 Highland Brewing Company 299-3370 Hollandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grille 298-8780 The Hookah Bar 252-1522 Infusions 665-2161 Iron Horse Station 622-0022 Laureyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catering 252-1500 The Lobster Trap 350-0505 Luellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar-B-Que 505-RIBS Mack Kellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub & Grill 253-8805 Magnoliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raw Bar 251-5211 Mela 225-8880 Mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tavern 281-3096 Mo-Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar & Grill 258-1550 New French Bar Courtyard Cafe 225-6445 Never Blue 693-4646

Old Fairview Southern Kitchen 277-7117 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On Main 246-0898 The Orange Peel 225-5851 Pantherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paw 696-0810 Pisgah Brewing Co. 669-0190 Purple Onion Cafe 749-1179 Rankin Vault 254-4993 Red Stag Grill at the Grand Bohemian Hotel 505-2949 Rendezvous 926-0201 Rock Bottom Sports Bar & Grill 622-0001 Rocket Club 505-2494 Root Bar No.1 299-7597 Rubyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BBQ Shack 299-3511 Scandals Nightclub 252-2838 Shovelhead Saloon 669-9541 Skyland Performing Arts Center 693-0087 Steak & Wine / Satchelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Martini Bar 505-3362 Stella Blue 236-2424 The Still 683-5913

Stockade Brew House 645-1300 Straightaway Cafe 669-8856 Switzerland Cafe 765-5289 Tallgaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Street Pub 232-0809 Tolliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossing Irish Pub 505-2129 TGI Fridayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 277-4080 Town Pump 669-4808 Tressaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downtown Jazz &â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Blues 254-7072 Vaso De Vino Wine Bar & Market 254-4698 Vincenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro 254-4698 The Watershed 669-0777 Waynesville Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Hole 456-4750 Wedge Brewery 505 2792 Westville Pub 225-9782 White Horse 669-0816 Wild Wing Cafe 253-3066 Xcapades 258-9652

kitchen open until late 3pm-2am everyday pinball, foosball & a kickass jukebox â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bigger than it looks!â&#x20AC;?

504 Haywood Rd. West Asheville 828-255-1109

S M O K E â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; O R â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; N O T â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; T O â&#x20AC;&#x2C6; S M O K E

OSO: smoking clubspforr specfics â&#x20AC;˘ ISS: smoking N o outdoor/patio rth C ar o l only i n â&#x20AC;˘aSH:ssmoking tat ehours, l acallw ohib i t sindoor sm o k section i n gâ&#x20AC;˘ SA: i nsmoking d o oallowed rs.

Ras Berhane (acoustic, reggae)

Town Pump

The Rhythm Brewers (roots)

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

David Allan Coe (country, metal, rock) w/ Mic Harrison & the High Score

Tressaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Downtown Jazz and Blues

The Free Flow Band (soul, funk)

Joyful Noise Students, 2pm (music, dance & drama performances) Hot Club of Cowtown (alternative, pop)

Purple Onion Cafe

Vincenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Live music w/ Tom Coppola (early) & Marc Keller (late)

Irish session, 5pm Tom Waits time, late

Watershed

Lobster Trap

Boo Ray (Southern rock)

Chris Rhodes

Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe

Orange Peel

Orange Peel

Jimmy Landry (singer/songwriter) Red Stag Grill

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues) Rendezvous Restaurant & Bar

Revoked (alternative)

Rock Bottom Sports Bar & Grill

Live music

Westville Pub

SIRSY (indie, pop)

Rocket Club

LOL Comedy

White Horse

Scandals Nightclub

Dance party w/ DJ Stratos & drag show Skyland Performing Arts Center

Appalachian Fire (bluegrass) Stella Blue

Subversion (metal, rock, punk) w/ Built To Fall & Opus Grey Tallgaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Street Pub

Benefit concert for Habitat For Humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Women Build program feat: Peggy Ratusz & Daddy Longlegs (blues) Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

David Grover (kid/family concert), 2pm Swayback Sisters (Appalachian folks songs) w/ Now You See Them, 8pm

Sun., March 21 Asheville Civic Center

Home Show

Athenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club

DJ night

Barleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taproom

Cabo Verde (Flamenco, jazz) Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Luke Wood (acoustic)

Gershwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Porgy and Bess

Tolliverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossing Irish Pub

Live music w/ singer-songwriters

Katie LaRue (acoustic, folk, singer/songwriter)

Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone

Shag dance & lessons

Benefit for ChildrenFirst, A.S.A.P. & RiverLink feat: Billy Jonas (family concert, â&#x20AC;&#x153;singalongs, bangalongs, whisperalongsâ&#x20AC;?), 3pm Purple Onion Cafe

Eric Taylor (folk, Americana, country) Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vinyl at the Vaultâ&#x20AC;? w/ Chris Ballard Rocket Club

Sunday jazz jam Scandals Nightclub

Dance party w/ DJs Acolyte or Zorro & drag show Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

The Moody Blues (rock) Town Pump

Pickinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at the Pump, open acoustic jam Vincenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro

Steve Whiddon (piano, vocals)

Mon., March 22

This Saturday â&#x20AC;˘ Michelle Leigh / 9 -Midnight S O U T H E R N R O C K MEMORY MONDAYS TRIVIA 25¢ WINGS â&#x20AC;˘ TACO TUESDAYS $1.50 TACOS & TECATE WILD WEDNESDAYS 50¢ WINGS KARAOKE $1.50 PBR PINTS â&#x20AC;˘ TROUBADOUR THURSDAYS OPEN MIC FISHINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FRIDAYS â&#x20AC;˘ SAKATINI SATURDAYS $2 SHOTS SINFUL SUNDAYS PHISH FOOD PINTS â&#x20AC;˘ $1 BEER

WEDNESDAY 3/17

Hi# EVig^X`Âżh 9Vn RED WELLIES â&#x20AC;˘ 8PM

FRIDAY 3/19

HZVc 8VgcZn 7VcY AWARD-WINNING ROCKABILLY BLUES BAND SATURDAY 3/20

<Vgn HZ\Va

Id 9nZ [dg 7VcY ECLECTIC MIX OF AMERICANA, BLUEGRASS & BLUES

THURSDAY 3/25

I]Z OZVadih ALTERNATIVE AMERICANA

FRIDAY 3/26

BUNCOMBE TURNPIKE SATURDAY 3/27

ROBIN ROGERS BAND COMING SOON: 4/2 - HIGH WINDY 4/3 - RB MORRIS 4/6 - SINGER/SONGWRITER IN THE ROUND

The Beacon puts Swannaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Somewhere on the map!

Hwy. 70 at Whitson Avenue / Join fb-beaconpubandbistro

mountainx.com â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 61

Club 828

Metal Monday feat: guest artists Dance party w/ DJ Wayd Runk Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Contra dance

Open mic night w/ Aaron LaFalce Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Songwriting Competition w/ Jenny Juice

Thur., March 18th Jackass Flats Fri., March 19th Hot Politics w/ Funkuponya Sat., March 20th Blue Dragons Mon., March 22nd Jenny Juice’s Brown Bag Songwriting Competition Tues., March 23rd Snake Oil Medicine Show Wed., March 24th Soul Jazz Jam

Hosted by Asheville Jazz Allstars • No Cover All shows start at 9:30 pm and are $5 unless otherwise noted

77b Biltmore Ave., Asheville, NC 828-258-1550 • mo.daddys@gmail.com Check out our music online! myspace.com/modaddysbar

Beacon Pub

Garage at Biltmore

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Handlebar

BoBo Gallery

Laurey’s Catering and Gourmet To Go

Boiler Room

Gone Again (acoustic, funk, blues) G. Love & Special Sauce (roots, blues, hip-hop) w/ Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad

Hangar

Hosted by Asheville Jazz Allstars • No Cover

Open mic

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Matt Walsh (rockabilly)

Emerald Lounge

Wed., March 17th Soul Jazz Jam

Will Ray’s Mountain Jam

Ukulele jam

Orange Peel

Megadeth (thrash, metal) w/ Exodus & Testament

Lobster Trap

Rocket Club

New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Geoff Weeks

Asheville Jazz Orchestra (swing, jazz)

Tomato Tuesday comedy open mic

Town Pump

Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Rocket Club

The Dewdabides

Rock Records

D Mack Vocal jazz session w/ Sharon LaMotte, 7:30pm

Mintonic Music Series feat: Lance w/ Spuce & Sanders

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Town Pump

Tue., March 23

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Marc Keller & Company (variety)

Paul Cataldo (Americana, country)

Back Room

Steve Whiteside (singer/songwriter, acoustic guitar) Barley’s Taproom

The Drovers Old Time Medicine Show (bluegrass) Beacon Pub

Makia Groove (funk, reggae, fusion) Eleven on Grove

The Xiphoid Process (metal) w/ ShadoLine Bosco’s Sports Zone

Shag dance

Westville Pub

Blues Jam w/ Mars Fariss

Bluegrass & clogging

Open mic

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Jupiter One (new wave, rock) & Heypenny w/ Kyle Andrews Holland’s Grille

Marc Keller (singer/songwriter) Old Time Jam, 6pm

Aaron Woody Wood (soul, pop) Nine Mile

Ras Berhane (acoustic, reggae) Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

“Hits & Shits” w/ Jamie Hepler Red Stag Grill

Bobby Sullivan (blues, rock, standards) Rocket Club

Club 828

Scandals Nightclub

Feed and Seed

Back Room

Country dance lessons, 9-10pm Dance, 10pm-Midnight

Making It Work:

The BIG Small Business Issue

APRIL 14

Getaway’s (Eleven on Grove) Hookah Bar Mike’s Side Pocket W EDNESDAY

Good Stuff

Emerald Lounge

PuBLISheS

Mack Kell’s Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues TUESDAY

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter)

Nebula (rock, blues, psychedelic) w/ Quest For Fire

Dance & open jam session

MONDAY

Frankie Bones

Wed., March 24

Tuesday Night Funk Jam

IN T H E C LUBS

‘80s Night, 10pm

Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Marc Keller & Company (variety)

K ARAO K E

Broadway’s

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Wild Wing Cafe

Swing & Tango lessons and dance w/ Russ Wilson

Ash Devine (folk, experimental) w/ Cailen Campbell & David Brown (“gypsy dance music”)

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Irish session, 6:30pm Open mike w/ Parker Brooks, 8:30pm

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Open mic

Acoustic spotlight hosted by Peggy Ratusz & “Big Al” Pearlman

White Horse

Open mic

Open jam

An in-depth look at the most important issues facing LOCAL small businesses.

Contact us Today!

Asheville Ale House • Fred’s Parkside Pub & Grill • The Hangar • Infusions O’Malleys on Main • Holland’s Grille Rendezvous T H URSDAY Beacon Pub • Cancun Mexican Grill Chasers • Club Hairspray Shovelhead Saloon FRIDAY Fairview Tavern • Infusions Mack Kell’s • Shovelhead Saloon Stockade Brew House The 170 La Cantinetta SATURDAY Club Hairspray • Holland’s Grille Infusions • Shovelhead Saloon The Still SUNDAY Asheville Ale House • Bosco’s Sports Zone • Cancun Mexican Grill The Hangar • Getaway’s (Eleven on Grove) Mack Kell’s • Wing Cafe Tallgary’s College Street Pub

Open mic

The Blackbird

The Honeycutters (Americana, country, blues) The Hookah Bar

Open mic w/ rotating local hosts Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

‘80s night

Town Pump

Open Mic w/ David Bryan Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

The Free Flow Band (soul, funk) Vincenzo’s Bistro

Steve Whiddon (piano, vocals) Westville Pub

Jammin’ w/ Funky Max

Thu., March 25 Athena’s Club

DJ night

Back Room

Secret B-Sides (soul, hip-hop, r&b) Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

(828) 251-1333 • advertise@mountainx.com

Mark Bumgarner (Americana) Boiler Room

Tyler Lyle (blues, folk) w/ BlueRoserocket (rock, progressive, blues) & Neapolitan Children Bosco’s Sports Zone

62 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Open mic & jam

Utah Green (lyrical, roots)

Cropdusters (fusion, rock)

Club 828

Scandals Nightclub

Holland’s Grille

Courtyard Gallery

TGI Friday’s

Infusions Lounge

Decades Restaurant & Bar

The 170 La Cantinetta

Iron Horse Station

Eleven on Grove

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Emerald Lounge

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Jerusalem Garden

Hip-hop & DJ night Open mic w/ Barbie Angell Jazz piano w/ Garnell Stuart

Vortex Cabaret (music, burlesque & more) umelt (rock, progressive) Fairview Tavern

Open mic

Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter) Fred’s Parkside Pub & Grill

Open mic hosted by Jimbo

“Exposure” DJ night Open mic

Dave Lagadi (smooth jazz)

Peggy Ratusz and Friends (blues)

Aaron LaFalce (acoustic guitar, singer/songwriter) Westville Pub

Amelia White (folk, rock) White Horse

“Great Blue Ridge Talent Search”

Southern Silk Duo (jazz, blues), 7:30-10:30pm

Buncombe Turnpike (bluegrass, acoustic, folk) Belly dancing w/ live music

Little Friday Band (acoustic rock) Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Pierce Edens (folk, rock, country) & Erika Jane (club, electro, pop)

Athena’s Club

O’Malley’s On Main

Handlebar

Back Room

Amos Lee (folk, blues, soul) w/ Cary Ann Hearst

John Howie (country)

Infusions Lounge

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Live music

Acoustic Swing

Iron Horse Station

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Open mic w/ Yorky

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Boiler Room

Laurey’s Catering and Gourmet To Go

Chameleon Soul Food

The Zealots (rock, alternative) Alexander the Grape w/ Barbara Davis, Laurel Davis & Art Shuster (old-time acoustic music) Lobster Trap

Hank Bones

DJ night

Grammer School (experimental, indie, rock) w/ Seventh Epic & The Dark Shave Ghost Mountain Rhythm and Blues (soul, blues) Decades Restaurant & Bar

Feed and Seed

Screech Owl Serenade (swing, old-school country)

Amelia’s Mechanics (Americana) w/ Firefly Revival & Jim Avett

Frankie Bones

Never Blue

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Marc Keller (acoustic, variety)

Singer/songwriter showcase

The If You Wannas (indie, rock)

Orange Peel

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Utah Green (lyrical, roots)

Funny Business Comedy Club

Purple Onion Cafe

The Sireens (jazz, swing)

Bobcat Goldthwait (comedy) w/ M. Dickson, 8 & 10:30pm

Red Stag Grill

Garage at Biltmore

Anne Coombs (jazz, swing)

Melodious Earth (rock, funk)

Rock Bottom Sports Bar & Grill

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Rocket Club

Ampline (progressive, punk) w/ Daikaiju (rock, psychedelic) Root Bar No. 1

Pisgah Brewing Company

Jim Weider’s “ProJECT PERCoLAToR” Purple Onion Cafe

Fred Whisken (jazz pianist) Red Stag Grill

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues) Rendezvous Restaurant & Bar

Mixx (r&b)

Rocket Club

Stella Blue

Mela

Kemistry (Southern rock, covers)

Tea Leaf Green (rock, psychedelic) w/ Elmwood

Eleven on Grove

Marc Keller (acoustic, variety)

Pnuma Trio (electronic, funk, jazz) w/ Break Science feat: Adam Deitch

Orange Peel

Le Serpent Rouge (belly dance company) w/ Mezmer Society (acoustic, folk, rock)

Salsa & Mambo Dancing, 10pm-2am Dance Lessons, 10:30pm

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Dave Desmelik (Americana)

Rotating jazz bands

Mack Kell’s Pub & Grill

Belly dancing

Aries Birthday Dance Party

The Enemy Lovers (rock, indie) w/ Public Radio Straightaway Café

Kevin Scanlon (acoustic, folk) Tallgary’s College Street Pub

Yeller Dog (Southern rock)

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Live music w/ singer-songwriters Town Pump

Rafe Hollister (Southern rock) Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Peggy Ratusz and Daddy Longlegs (soulful blues) Vincenzo’s Bistro

Bobby Sullivan (piano) Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe

Demijohn Varmits (“Appalachian dirty shuffle”)

Soulgrass Rebellion (roots, bluegrass) w/ Bobby Lee Rodgers & Now You See Them

White Horse

Handlebar

Sat., March 27

Atlanta Rhthym Section (Southern rock) w/ The Crunch Highland Brewing Company

Robin Bullock (Celtic guitar)

Athena’s Club

DJ night

1/2 Price bottles of Wine 1/2 Price appetizers 5-8

B?L; CKI?9

Luella’s Bar-B-Que

New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

ASHEVILLE’S ONLY TRUE GENTLEMAN’S CLUB

Live music by local artists

Fri., March 26

Sparrow (accordion)

J > K H I : 7O I

Lobster Trap

Big Daddy Love CD release party (Americana, bluegrass)

Thursday night bluegrass jam

College Street Pub

Paul Cataldo (Americana, country)

Zuma Coffee

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

JWbb]WhoÉi

Buster (“gritty Texas blues, rock”)

Asheville’s Upscale Adult Club & Sports Lounge

DON’T YOU Deserve a Lap Dance?

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Habitat For Humanity FunDraiSer Peggy ratuSz & DaDDy long legS & otHerS 6Pm

a ll ne W menu! beSt aPPetizerS in aSHeville WeDneSDayS Free Pool Sat. & Sun. CHamPagne brunCH & blooDy mary bar

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$50 cash prize for karaoke winner!

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(828) 298-1400

520 Swannanoa River Rd, Asheville, NC 28805

We Are the Headquarters for all UFC Fights Full Menu Available Daily until 2am 828-505-3550

144 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC M-F 4pm-2am • Sat & Sun 11am-2am

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 63

Back Room

Funny Business Comedy Club

Rocket Club

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Bobcat Goldthwait (comedy) w/ M. Dickson, 8 & 10:30pm

The Wellhouse Band (roots)

Garage at Biltmore

Sirius.B. CD release party (“absurdist, Gypsy, folk, funk, punk”) w/ Bomb’s Away Cabaret (burlesque)

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

As Sick As Us (metal)

Scandals Nightclub

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Dance party w/ DJ Stratos & drag show

Big Daddy Love (Americana, bluegrass, folk)

Lucero (rock, indie, Southern rock) w/ GLOSSARY

Stella Blue

Handlebar

Straightaway Café

Benefit for Haiti feat: Acoustic Syndicate (bluegrass, experimental)

Screech Owl Serenade (swing, old-school country)

Saint Bernadette (rock) w/ Joe Roberto & Poverty

Infusions Lounge

Tallgary’s College Street Pub

Live music

Westsound (r&b, blues)

Craggie Brewing Company

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

Robin Rogers Band (blues)

Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour

Jerusalem Garden

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Belly dancing w/ live music

Live music w/ singer-songwriters

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Town Pump

David Holt (folk) w/ The Lightning Bolts

Discordian Society CD release party (eclectic, progressive, jazz, funk)

Paul Cataldo (Americana, country)

Eleven on Grove

New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

The Funk Messengers (funk, dance)

Woody Wood (rock, soul, pop) & Taylor Marten

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Boiler Room

Malebolgia (metal) w/ Uzzard, The Sign of the Southern Cross, Coathanger Abortion & Doom Syndicate Broadway’s

Asheville Vaudeville (performance art, music, puppetry) Decades Restaurant & Bar

42nd Street Jazz Band Diana Wortham Theater

Country and line dancing Emerald Lounge

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Ras Berhane (acoustic, reggae)

Live music w/ Tom Coppola (early) & Marc Keller (late)

Orange Peel

Watershed

Circus Mutt (rock)

Rebirth Brass Band (funk, jam band) & Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk

Chalwa (reggae)

Feed and Seed

Purple Onion Cafe

Peg Twisters (“old-time music w/ a twist”)

Eliza Lynn (singer/songwriter)

Westville Pub

Red Stag Grill

The Looters (blues, funk, jam)

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues)

White Horse

Zach Deputy (funk, acoustic) w/ Josh Blake and the Big Money Fairview Tavern

Tru Blue w/ Tom Fisch (singer/songwriter) Frankie Bones

Bobby Sullivan (blues, rock, standards) French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Brushfire Stankgrass (bluegrass) French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Lorraine Conard (Americana, blues)

64 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

Ironside (metal) w/ My Undoing & Burnstich

Nine Mile

Rendezvous Restaurant & Bar

Mixx (r&b) Rock Bottom Sports Bar & Grill

Live music

Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe

Secret Agent 23 Skidoo (family concert, hiphop), 2pm —- Song Circle feat: Mary Ellen Bush, Woody Wood, Juan Holladay & more

crankyhanke

theaterlistings Friday, MARCh 19 - THURSDAY March 25

Due to possible last-minute scheduling changes, moviegoers may want to confirm showtimes with theaters. n Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co. (254-1281)

movie reviews and listings by ken hanke

JJJJJ is the maximum rating

additional reviews by justin souther • contact xpressmovies@aol.com

Please call the info line for updated showtimes.

Tooth Fairy (PG) 1:00, 4:00 Sherlock Holmes (PG-13) 7:00, 10:00

pickoftheweek The Girl on the Train

n Carmike Cinema 10

(298-4452)

JJJJJ

Director: André Téchiné Players: Emilie Dequenne, Michel Blanc, Catherine Deneuve, Mathieu Demy, Ronit Elkabetz Drama

Rated NR

The Story: A fact-based story of a young French woman who, for unknown reasons, invented a story that she was attacked on a train by thugs who mistook her for being Jewish.

The Lowdown: A fascinating character study about how our circumstances control our actions. It offers no answers, merely suggestive observations.

It is probably futile to give André Téchiné‘s The Girl on the Train the top-pick spot of the week. It’s been relegated to one matinee a day at the Fine Arts Theatre because of the Asheville Jewish Film Festival and will be gone come Friday, making your chances of catching it somewhat slim. However, this odd little movie is far and away the most interesting new offering in town.

That The Girl on the Train is fact-based is deceptive. Yes, there really was a girl in Paris who made up a story about being mistaken for a Jew and consequently being the target of an attack on a train. And it did turn into a media circus before it was exposed as a lie, after which it turned into a different kind of media circus.

But Téchiné‘s film isn’t all that interested in these facts in and of themselves. Indeed, most of the media attention is almost relegated to background noise — even an announcement that the girl in question has been given the “support of the president” is little more than a footnote. What then is the film interested in? It’s interested in trying to understand why people do what they do — without ever claiming that it does know.

Téchiné‘s film is divided into two very different parts: “The Circumstances” and “The Consequences.” The first details Jeanne’s (Emilie Dequenne) life to the point of her big lie and the second what the aftermath of it is.

But it’s more than that, because the film has a fairly large cast of characters — all of whom have circumstances and consequences of their own. There’s Jeanne’s mother, Louise (Catherine Deneuve), whose home is also a daycare center (it’s an unforced irony that Jeanne lives in a daycare center). Her circumstances include taking care of her unfocused daughter, but the consequences of her earlier life are such that she has an “in” with someone who will become important to Jeanne’s situation: famous Jewish

Emilie Dequenne as the title character in André Téchiné’s The Girl on the Train, a compelling look at the motivations, circumstances and consequences of a group of characters. lawyer — and Jewish-rights activist — Samuel Bleistein. He too has circumstances and consequences, as do his son, his son’s estranged wife and his grandson. Similarly, a young man, Alex (Mathieu Demy, real-life son of Agnès Varda and Jacques Demy), with whom Jeanne becomes romantically involved, also has his own set of circumstances, which in part will lead to the consequences of being involved with Jeanne.

At bottom, the film is more about people’s circumstances and consequences than anything else — and while it invites the viewer to draw conclusions about these people and their motives, it never offers any conclusions, never suggests that it knows more than the viewer.

Depending on your outlook, that will either be refreshing or it will be disappointing.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the film — apart from the unanswerable question of why Jeanne does what she does (compounded by why everyone in the cast does what they do) — lies in the fact that absolutely everyone is aware of the fact that Jeanne is an inveterate liar. She just isn’t very good at it. And yet while knowing this, everyone in her circle — from mother to lover to boyfriend to Bleistein — ignores or willfully overlooks her lying, inadvertently setting the stage for her ultimate lie. It’s a fascinating sort of case history wrapped in a tapestry of character studies. It may not entirely satisfy you, but it will almost certainly intrigue you. Not rated. reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Fine Arts Theatre.

Green Zone JJJJ

Director: Paul Greengrass Players: Matt Damon, Greg Kinnear, Brendan Gleeson, Khalid Abdalla, Amy Ryan Political Thriller

Rated R

The Story: A warrant officer in Iraq in 2003 starts asking questions about the intelligence that keeps leading him to WMD sites where no weapons are found.

The Lowdown: A mix of fact and fiction, fictionalized fact and factualized fiction that works enough of the time to make for reasonably compelling viewing without feeling essential.

Green Zone cost a reported $100 million and had a projected opening-weekend gross of about $14.5 million. The film needs to make about $200 million to break even, which it seems unlikely to do. All the signs are that Paul Greengrass’ Green Zone is just another Iraq war film that no one much wants to see — just like every one that has come before it. (Even with those Oscars hanging on it, Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker is still in the red.)

In some ways, Greengrass just can’t catch a break outside the Bourne series. His United 93 (2006) was criticized for being made “too soon” and now his Green Zone is being criticized for coming out “too late” to impress anyone with its revelation that the government manufactured evidence of weapons of mass destruction in order to justify invading Iraq. That may be true — or it may not. Considering the onrush of right-wing accusations that Green Zone is left-

Avatar 3D (PG-13) 12:00, 1:00, 3:30, 4:30, 7:15, 8:00 The Bounty Hunter (PG13) 1:30, 4:05, 7:00, 9:40 The Crazies (R) 1:45 (no 1:45 show Sat-Sun), 4:30, 7:20, 10:00 Crazy Heart (R) 1:15, 4:15, 7:05, 9:50 Green Zone (R) 1:30, 4:15, 7:05, 10:00 Our Family Wedding (PG-13) 12:25, 2:40, 4:55, 7:10, 9:25 Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (PG) 1:30, 4:15 Remember Me (PG-13) 1:55, 4:35, 7:15, 9:55 Shutter Island (R) 1:00, 4:05, 7:00, 9:50 Strawberry Shortcake Berry Fest (G) 1:00 Sat and Sun only Valentine’s Day (PG-13) 7:05, 9:45

n Carolina Asheville Cinema 14 (274-9500)

Alice in Wonderland 3D (PG) 11:30, 2:00, 4:30, 7:15, 9:45 Alice in Wonderland 2D (PG) 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:45. 10:15 (Sofa Cinema) Avatar 2D (PG-13) 11:50, 3:05, 7:00, 10:10 (Sofa Cinema) The Bounty Hunter (PG13) 11:45, 2:25, 5:00, 7:35, 10:15 Brooklyn’s Finest (R) 11:40, 7:05 Crazy Heart (R) 11:30, 2:20, 4:55, 8:00, 10:35 Dazed and Confused (R) Midnight Fri-Sat only Diary of a Wimpy Kid (PG) 11:35, 1:55, 4:10,7:20, 9:35 Green Zone (R) 11:45, 2:25, 5:05, 7:40, 10:35 The Hurt Locker (R) 12:10, 3:20, 7:30, 10:30 Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (PG) 12:15, 3:15 (Sofa Cinema) Remember Me (PG-13) 11:35, 2:15, 4:50, 7:35, 10:10 Repo Men (R) 11:55, 2:30, 5:05, 7:50, 10:30

She’s Out of My League (R) 11:25, 1:50, 4:20, 7:55, 10:25 Shutter Island (R) 12:15, 3:30, 7:15, 10:20 (Sofa Cinema) The White Ribbon (R) 7:10,10:20 (Sofa Cinema) The Young Victoria (PG) 2:25, 7:05 n Cinebarre

(665-7776)

Alice in Wonderland 2D (PG) 10:35 (Fri-Sun), 1:25, 4:25, 7:20, 9:50 (Fri-Sun) The Bounty Hunter (PG13) 11:10 (Fri-Sun), 1:40, 4:45, 7:30, 10:10 (Fri-Sun) Green Zone (R) 10:30 (Fri-Sun), 1:35, 4:25, 7:25, 10:20 (Fri-Sun) She’s Out of My League (R) 11:00 (Fri-Sun), 1:30, 4:30, 7:40, 10:25 (Fri-Sun) Shutter Island (R) 12:00 (Fri-Sun), 3:35, 7:10, 10:15 (Fri-Sun)

n Co-ed Cinema Brevard (883-2200)

Alice in Wonderland (PG) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00

n Epic of

Hendersonville (693-1146) n Fine Arts Theatre (232-1536)

The Ghost Writer (PG-13) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, Late show Fri-Sat 9:45 The Last Station (R) 1:20 (no 1:20 show Fri), 4:20, 7:20

n Flatrock Cinema

(697-2463)

Crazy Heart (R) 4:00 The Hurt Locker (R) 12:30 (Sat, Sun, Wed), 7:00

n Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15 (684-1298) n United Artists Beaucatcher (298-1234)

Alice in Wonderland 3D (PG) 1:00, 2:00, 4:00, 5:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:30, 10:30 Alice in Wonderland 2D (PG) 1:30, 4:30, 7:30, 10:00 Cop Out (R) 1:40, 4:40, 7:10, 9:45 Diary of a Wimpy Kid (PG) 1:40, 4:50, 7:50, 10:05 Repo Men (R) 1:10, 4:10, 7:40, 10:15 She’s Out of My League (R) 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, 9:50

For some theaters movie listings were not available at press time. Please contact the theater or check mountainx.com for updated information.

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 65

Tune In to Cranky Hanke’s Movie Reviews

5:30 pm Fridays on Matt Mittan’s Take a Stand.

nowplaying Alice in Wonderland JJJJJ

Johnny Depp, Mia Wasikowska, Helena Bonham Carter, Anne Hathaway, Crispin Glover Fantasy In this sequel to Alice in Wonderland, the young adult Alice is lured back to the land of her youthful adventures to help defeat the tyrannical Red Queen. A visually striking, emotionally involving, highly Burtonized take on the Alice in Wonderland stories that sometimes soars without quite striking the gong, but is never less than entertaining.

Rated PG

Avatar JJJJ

Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez Science Fiction In the future, an ex-Marine inflitrates the indigenous race on the planet Pandora, only to find their simple ways superior to those of civilization as he knows it. An undeniable effects and design extravaganza, Avatar is nonetheless a fairly basic story with a new paint job. Rated PG-13

Brooklyn’s Finest JJJ

Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Ethan Hawke, Wesley Snipes, Brian F. O’Byrne Cop Drama Three disparate cops all try to survive in a world filled with violence and temptation. A heavy police drama that’s professionally made, but suffers from a reliance on clichés and the feeling that every role in the film was miscast. Rated R

Cop Out JJJ

Bruce Willis, Tracy Morgan, Sean William Scott, Guillermo Díaz, Kevin Pollak Buddy-Cop Comedy Two suspended cops try to track down a stolen baseball card and bring down a deadly drug lord. A generic buddy-cop movie that has a handful of decent chuckles, but does little else to distinguish itself. Rated R

The Crazies JJJ

Timothy Olyphant, Radha Mitchell, Joe Anderson, Danielle Panabaker Sci-Fi Horror A biological warfare experiment gets out of control and infects a small town, turning its victims into psychotic killers. A surprisingly effective and generally well done remake of George A. Romero’s low-budget 1973 film, with better-than-average characters. Rated R

Crazy Heart JJJJ

Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell, Jack Nation Redemption Drama With Country Music A downon-his-luck alcoholic country singer on the dead-end circuit gets a chance at a comeback and personal

66 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

redemption. A straightforward redemption drama that’s damaged by an unpersuasive romance, but offers the compensation of a strong lead performance from Jeff Bridges. Rated R

Dear John JJJ

Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins, Henry Thomas, Scott Porter Goopy Romance A soldier finds the love of his life, only to have the romance complicated by 9/11. Strong direction isn’t enough to counteract the onslaught of goofy melodrama and paper-thin characterization on display. Rated PG-13

The Girl on the Train JJJJJ

Emilie Dequenne, Michel Blanc, Catherine Deneuve, Mathieu Demy, Ronit Elkabetz Drama A fact-based story of a young French woman who, for unknown reasons, invented a story that she was attacked on a train by thugs who mistook her for being Jewish. A fascinating character study about how our circumstances control our actions. It offers no answers, merely suggestive observations. Rated NR

Green Zone JJJJ

Matt Damon, Greg Kinnear, Brendan Gleeson, Khalid Abdalla, Amy Ryan Political Thriller A warrant officer in Iraq in 2003 starts asking questions about the intelligence that keeps leading him to WMD sites where no weapons are found. A mix of fact and fiction, fictionalized fact and factualized fiction that works enough of the time to make for reasonably compelling viewing without feeling essential. Rated R

Romantic Drama With Pretensions Romance between two damaged characters with parental issues.

A largely shapeless romantic drama that attempts to prove Robert Pattinson is a real actor—and doesn’t make much of a case. Rated PG-13

She’s Out of My League JJJ

Jay Baruchel, Alice Eve, T.J. Miller, Mike Vogel, Nate Torrence Romantic Comedy A dorky airport security guard suddenly finds himself in a relationship with a woman who he worries is too attractive for him. An often pleasant, occasionally amusing romantic comedy that’s more harmless than good. Rated R

Shutter Island JJJJJ

Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Max Von Sydow, Michelle Williams, Emily Mortimer Psychological Neo-Noir Horror A U.S. Marshall and his new partner are sent to a very mysterious maximum-security insane asylum after a patient inexplicably disappears from her room. Martin Scorsese’s psychological thriller is more than a stylish thriller, though it’s certainly stylish and atmospheric. However, it’s a film that may irritate some viewers by refusing to stick to the thriller playbook. Rated R

The Last Station JJJJJ

Helen Mirren, Christopher Plummer, James McAvoy, Paul Giamatti, Kerry Condon, Anne-Marie Duff Biographical Domestic Farce/Tragedy The story of the last year in the life of the writer Leo Tolstoy—and the battle for the control of his estate. A surprisingly entertaining, beautifully made historical film with large doses of humor and brilliant performances from Helen Mirren and Christopher Plummer. Rated R

Our Family Wedding J

Valentine’s Day JJ

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief JJJJ

The White Ribbon JJJJ

Forest Whitaker, America Ferrera, Carlos Mencia, Regina King, Lance Gross, Diana-Maria Riva Culture-Clash Romantic Comedy Feuding fathers threaten to undermine the wedding of their children.

There is simply no excuse for the movie’s existence.

Rated PG-13

Logan Lerman, Brandon T. Jackson, Alexandra Daddario, Pierce Brosnan, Sean Bean Teen Fantasy A teen finds out he is the son of Poseidon and it’s up to him to prevent a potential war between the gods. A good enough piece of entertainment that works within the confines of a CGI spectacle, with all the depth (or lack of) that implies. Rated PG

Remember Me J

Robert Pattinson, Emilie de Ravin, Tate Ellington, Chris Cooper, Lena Olin, Pierce Brosnan

Ashton Kutcher, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, Topher Grace, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine Hoiday-Themed Romcom Various people’s lives and romances cross paths on the titular day. Big stars and not-so-big stars flit past on the screen in a creatively specious, multistory film that works on the premise that everything can be made right in two hours. It’s not unwatchable, but it’s not good. Rated PG-13

Christian Friedel, Ernst Jacobi, Leonie Benesch, Ulrich Tukur, Ursina Lardi Drama Strange and disturbing events permit themselves the luxury of occurring in a small village in rural Germany just before WWI. An unsettling, chilly examination of the effects of a tyrannical patriarchal society. Powerful, but unrelentingly grim. Rated R

startingfriday THE BOUNTY HUNTER

As if The Ugly Truth wasn’t bad enough, Gerard Butler returns to the romantic comedy, this time co-starring with Jennifer Aniston in The Bounty Hunter. If that’s not depressing enough, it was directed by Andy Tennant, who scored with Hitch, but has yet to expiate the sins of Sweet Home Alabama or Fool’s Gold. The premise finds bounty hunter Butler assigned to bring in exwife Aniston. Laughs, thrills and romance are meant to result. Predictability seems far more likely based on the trailer and the fact that it’s not being screened for critics. (PG-13)

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID

Thor Freudenthal, who brought us Hotel for Dogs, now brings to the screen Jeff Kinney’s popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid children’s book series about a wisecracking kid. Zachary Gordon (he played “Kid no. 6 in Jump-Jump” in Four Christmases) and a lot of other people you never heard of — plus Steve Zahn — star in this. It hasn’t been shown to anyone yet, but fans of the books appear ready to trounce the movie soundly as soon as it appears — or so the postings on the IMDb suggest. (PG)

THE GHOST WRITER

Roman Polanski is back (thankfully, not with anything like Oliver Twist) and is getting his best reviews in years with The Ghost Writer. This is a dark thriller about a man (Ewan McGregor) hired to ghost write the memoirs of a former British prime minister (Pierce Brosnan).

Unfortunately for him, he learns all sorts of things other people would prefer he didn’t know. Also in the cast are Kim Cattrall, James ist, anti-American propaganda, the point seems open to debate. But if no one other than nervous conservatives are paying any attention, the effort seems to little avail.

Actually, Green Zone is first and foremost a thriller — albeit one with a message — and the sad fact is that it just isn’t all that thrilling. It’s moderately efficient for most of its length. The last 20 minutes are painfully protracted, and while this part of the film leads to the important line in the movie, it does so via a telegraphed “surprise” ending that made me glad I screened the film with only a couple of friends and not an audience.

(Yelling, “We all saw it coming!” at a non-surprise in a crowded theater is bad manners.) That it also wants to say something is clearly the filmmakers’ prerogative. That they have simplified, telescoped, distilled and fictionalized aspects of the story is to be expected. This is a movie, not a political-science class.

Matt Damon is Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller, a man who has grown tired of securing sites — often with casualties — that supposedly contain the mythical WMDs and finding nothing more than ossified pigeon droppings. He starts asking questions about whether or not the intelligence he is being handed is reliable. These are not questions anyone in charge — notably Clark Poundstone (Greg Kinnear) — wants to hear. On

Belushi, Olivia Williams, Timothy Hutton and Tom Wilkinson. It should be worth a look — and certainly there’s nothing else of note opening around here this week. (PG-13) Early review samples: • “The best thing Polanski has done since the seventies, when he brought out the incomparable Chinatown and the very fine Tess.” (David Denby, The New Yorker) • “Polanski at 76 provides a reminder of directors of the past who were raised on craft, not gimmicks, and depended on a deliberate rhythm of editing rather than mindless quick cutting. The film immerses you in its experience.” (Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times)

South Asheville’s First

Gluten Free Pizza & Pasta view a complete menu at

www.AcropolisPizza.com 84 19

the other hand, crusty CIA man Martin Brown (Brendan Gleeson) — an old hand in Middle Eastern affairs — is interested and tries to enlist Miller’s aid.

This proves to be forthcoming when a local, whom Miller dubs “Freddy” (Khalid Abdalla, United 93), directs him to a meeting of Saddam Hussein’s high-ranking military men. After taking a prisoner who promises to tell Miller where the big-cheese general Al Rawi (Igal Naor, Rendition) is hiding, Miller is flummoxed by the arrival of troops who relieve him of his prisoner.

This so infuriates Miller that he throws in his lot with Brown, who, unlike Poundstone, wants to do a deal with the Iraqi army. Therein lies the bulk of the film’s plot as it becomes clearer and clearer that we’re dealing with more than faulty intelligence.

Facts and fictionalized versions of real people are tossed in, but the film is powered primarily by its action content and a series of suspense-driven scenes, even while the truth is uncovered. It’s not an unreasonable approach to the material, which attempts to draw the audience into the story’s more weighty aspects while entertaining them, but it doesn’t entirely work. A lot of this stems from the fact that Miller seems answerable to no one and gets away with far more than even the most credulity-inclined viewer is likely to buy

10

684-5737

Free Wi-Fi • Open 7 days 140 Airport Rd. where the locals eat…

(S. Asheville / Arden) for 26 years

4HE !SHEVILLE !STROLOGER

REPO MEN

No, it has nothing to do with Alex Cox’s cult favorite Repo Man, nor does it share more than a basic premise with the straight-to-video Repo!

A Genetic Opera. No, this is a sci-fi thriller starring Jude Law and Forest Whitaker as fellows employed to repossess — in the most drastic manner imaginable (see the R rating) — artificial replacement organs when the recipients of said organs fail to keep up with the payments. The twist comes when Law finds himself in the position of being the target of organ repossession — and Whitaker is assigned to collect. Director Miguel Sapochnik is a firsttimer and an unknown quantity. Alice Braga, Liev Schreiber and Carice van Houten are also on board. The trailer looks OK, but hardly great, and, no, it hasn’t been shown to critics.

However, eight studio shills have enthused about it on the IMDb, while one Repo! A Genetic Opera fan has shown up to trash it. (R)

- 20

20 Years of Serving the Greater Asheville Area

Blending Western & Vedic Astrology

Spring Equinox Gathering

Understand how 2010 to 2015 planetary events will impact your life

Sunday, March 21st • 3pm

Join us in Circle to Celebrate the Rites of Spring $10 Suggested Donation 5426 Asheville Hwy. (Hwy.25) 1/2 mi. S. I-26 exit 44

687-1193 • CrystalVisionsBooks.com • Mon-Sat 10-6

Dear Dr. Waldman: For the last 3 weeks my right heel has been hurting especially when I get out of bed in the morning and when I start walking after sitting. I don't remember injuring my foot at all. I tried some cushions and ibuprofen from the drugstore but it does not help. It's starting to hurt so bad I don't know what to do. What is going on and what can be done to cure this?

- Mrs. G.T., Arden From the symptoms you describe I believe you have one of the most common foot problems I treat in the office. The medical term is plantar fasciitis (Fa-shE-Its) which simply means inflammation of the ligament on the bottom of the heel. A spur on the bottom of the heel bone is often present. The most common reason for this is repetitive pressure on the heel and flat arches (hyper-pronation). I commonly treat this problem with stretching exercises, antiinflammatory pills, shoe inserts and topical relieving gels like BioFreeze. I will often use ultrasound to see inside the heel to evaluate the condition of the ligament. Sometimes the ligament is thickened and/or torn. It may also have an area of inflammation called a bursae. Occasionally a small steroid injection can be given to quickly shrink the bursae and greatly reduce the pain. More than 95% of my patients get long term relief with these treatments. New treatments for resistant heel pain include high energy sound wave which is replacing traditional heel surgery. Of course there are a number of other possible causes for heel pain so you should consult with your podiatric physician soon.

For more information please see our web site: www.blueridgefoot.com.

Please call to make an appointment Dr. Daniel Waldman is a Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Foot&Ankle Surgeons.

Send your foot care questions to: Ask the Foot Doctor, 246 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC 28801

mountainx.com • MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 67

one-timeshowings Clue JJJJ

Director: Jonathan Lynn (Nuns on the Run) Players: Tim Curry, Eileen Brennan, Madeline Kahn, Christopher Lloyd, Martin Mull Comedy Whodunit Rated PG Yes, it’s the movie based on the board game.

And that isn’t the only gimmick Clue (1985) features. It also boasts three different endings — or, in other words, three different solutions to the mystery at hand. At its release, which ending you saw depended on which theater you went to. That’s a neat trick, but it tells the savvy mystery fan that the mystery isn’t much and can’t be solved fairly by piecing together the clues. That also resulted in a good deal of negativity in 1985, but time has been rather kind to the film. All three endings will be shown by the Hendersonville Film Society.

The Hendersonville Film Society will show Clue at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 21, in the Smoky Mountain Theater at Lake Pointe Landing Retirement Community (behind Epic Cinemas), 333 Thompson St., Hendersonville.

Still Bill JJJJJ

Director: Damani Baker, Alex Vlack Players: Bill Withers, Jim James, Angélique Kidjo, Tavis Smiley, Cornel West Music/Documentary Rated NR I don’t think of Bill Withers very often, but whenever I encounter one of his songs from the early 1970s, I’m always glad to be reminded of him. He was one of the few black artists to crack the playlist of the AOR station I listened to in high school, and I vividly remember being impressed and moved when I first heard “Grandma’s Hands” on there. His other songs

— “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean on Me,” “Use Me Up” — were part of the sound track of my life back then. So I was delighted to be introduced to Still Bill (2009), a long-needed documentary on Withers. I was even more delighted to find it an excellent documentary — and Withers to be exactly the sort of person his songs had led me to imagine.

To celebrate their ninth anniversary (and the vernal equinox), West End Bakery will host a free screening of Still Bill on Saturday, March 20, at 8 p.m.

For more information, visit http://stillbillthemovie. com/2010/03/07/west-end-bakery-hosts-still-bill/.

When a Woman Ascends the Stairs JJJJ

Director: Mikio Naruse Players: Hideko Takamine, Masayuki Mori, Reiko Dan, Tatsuya Nakadai Drama Rated NR I freely admit that I don’t know a lot about Japanese cinema. Get me outside Kurosawa, Ozu and Ishiro Honda, and I’m pretty much in blue-sky territory. That was certainly the case with Miko Naruse and his 1960 film When a Woman Ascends the Stairs, since I’d never heard of either, and I was certainly surprised to see that Naruse has a huge filmography dating back to 1930. I won’t say that When a Woman Ascends the Stairs was a revelatory experience, but it was sufficiently rewarding that I’d like to see more.

If nothing else, it’s striking to see a filmmaker of that vintage fixated on the topic of the oppression of women.

Classic Cinema From Around the World will present When a Woman Ascends the Stairs at 8 p.m.

Friday, March 19, at Courtyard Gallery, 9 Walnut St., in downtown Asheville. Info: 273-3332.

For Cranky Hanke’s full reviews of these movies, visit www.mountainx.com/movies.

— and all the quick-editing shaky-cam work in the world doesn’t change this. It doesn’t quite sink the film, but it’s distracting wondering just where Miller’s superiors are all of the time. It’s a good movie, but definitely a few notches away from a great one. Rated R for violence and language. reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Cinebarre, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande 15.

Our Family Wedding J

Director: Rick Famuyiwa (Brown Sugar) Players: Forest Whitaker, America Ferrera, Carlos Mencia, Regina King, Lance Gross, Diana-Maria Riva Culture-Clash Romantic Comedy Rated PG-13

The Story: Feuding fathers threaten to undermine the wedding of their children.

The Lowdown: There is simply no excuse for the movie’s existence.

While the rest of the viewers in the rather sparsely populated theater busied themselves with texting on their cell phones, I spent most of

the running time of Our Family Wedding wondering how this thing got made in the first place.

Consider the series of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Someone had to come up with the idea. Well, since that honor falls to Wayne Conley, who is credited for both the story and co-writing the screenplay, and whose only other screenplay credit is the abominable King’s Ransom (2005), that may be explicable. Then someone had to agree to help Conley turn it into a screenplay.

This was Malcolm Spellman, who appears to have previously written a video game. (He and Mr. Conley are currently embroiled in writing Johnson Family Vacation 2. This says much.) After this, others apparently concluded the results could and should be turned into a movie. OK, I can see why director Rick Famuyiwa jumped at the project, since he hadn’t landed a directing job in about eight years. Perhaps he thought he could bring something to the screenplay (possibly the goat that stars in the movie?), though a match would have been his wisest choice. Then a lot of folks — apparently channeling Bela Lugosi for careermove tips — signed on to appear in the film. At no point did anyone stop and say, “Look, this thing is as old as the hills, and it hasn’t improved

68 MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 • mountainx.com

with time. It’s not funny. It’s not romantic. And it generally smells of herring.”? Apparently, no one did, which is actually pretty remarkable — in an “end of civilization as we know it” manner. The results are like a lobotomized Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? (1967) — with a horny goat thrown in.

There is nothing to recommend this movie — unless you enjoy counting clichés. In that eventuality, you’ll find much to keep you busy. They’re all here and they’re all staged for maximum unbelievability. Everything about this movie — from the preposterously upscale DJ dad (Forest Whitaker) and the improbably well-heeled towing-tycoon papa (Carlos Mencia) — is utterly ungrounded in any kind of reality. People fight for no reason, except that the script says they do.

The plot — involving embattled dads who don’t want their children (America Ferrera and Lance Gross) to marry — exists solely because Miguel Ramirez (Mencia) tows Brad Boyd’s (Whitaker) Jag for illegal parking, resulting in Brad inexplicably having to rent a Smart car (the movies think Smart cars are inherently funny). That’s it and I’m not buying it — or anything else offered up here right through the requisite gloomy penultimate reel and the happy-ever-aftering codswallop that lies in its wake.

The movie plays unsuccessfully for laughs and a culture-clash premise it can’t seem to locate, but wants us to accept is there because the film says so. It stages a softball game that makes no sense (in what version of the game are the pitcher and the batter on the same team?). Plus, since the scene’s big joke is in the trailer, the game has even less point by the time you sit through it in the movie. People throw wedding cake at each other in desperate bids for laughs. Charlie Murphy shows up from time to time to add his particular brand of obnoxiousness. And then there’s the damned goat that eats Forest Whitaker’s Viagra.

(Once again, you’ve seen the whole joke in the trailer, where it actually plays better by being more tightly edited.) Like everything else in the movie, the episode happens and is quickly dropped and forgotten, along with all the property damage it entailed (magically fixed). Maybe if the movie had concluded with Whitaker dancing with the beast at the interminable post-nuptial party, they’d have had something. But it doesn’t and they don’t. Rated PG-13 for some sexual content and brief strong language. reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Regal Biltmore Grande 15.

Remember Me J

Director: Allen Coulter (Hollywoodland) Players: Robert Pattinson, Emilie de Ravin, Tate Ellington, Chris Cooper, Lena Olin, Pierce Brosnan Romantic Drama With Pretensions Rated PG-13

The Story: Romance between two damaged characters with parental issues.

The Lowdown: A largely shapeless romantic drama that attempts to prove Robert Pattinson is a real actor — and doesn’t make much of a case.

There is no way to adequately discuss Allen Coulter’s egregious Remember Me without indulg-

ing in what are known as spoilers. Indeed, a great many critics have not even bothered noting that they are indulging in them — possibly out of contempt for this movie. However, assuming you don’t already know the film’s out-of-leftfield last-minute embellishment and you plan on seeing the rancid thing and wish to remain in ignorance of its big twist, then read no further.

You stand warned. The fact that the action is seemingly arbitrarily set in 2001 should serve as a clue to where this is going.

If you’ve managed to miss the advertisements for Remember Me, this is the movie that is supposed to convince us that there is a real actor beating within the bosom of the apparently swoonerific Twilight star Robert Pattinson. To this end, he neither sparkles in the sunlight, nor does he walk toward the camera in slow motion. He is, however, even more gloomy than his tween-enthralling vampirific character, having seemingly co-opted his Twilight love interest’s mopiness in the transition to serious drama. Where in Twilight: New Moon he wrote endless self-absorbed, self-pitying e-mails (emo-mails?) to a nonresponsive correspondent, here Pattinson’s Tyler Hawkins pens long letters to his dead brother in a notebook.

(Take that, Kristen Stewart!)

Pattinson has also been afforded a double dose of youthful angst of the sort once popularized by James Dean and Marlon Brando — to the degree that I kept expecting him to scream, “You’re tearing me apart,” or claim that he “coulda been a contender,” which, unfortunately, he never does.

He has neglectful-father issues and dead-brother (via suicide) issues. These he conveys to us by resenting authority, smoking cigarettes like a rank amateur (nowhere but in the movies do smokers light a cigarette, take two drags and put the damned thing out), drinking beer, living in a rundown (but very art-directed) New York City apartment, wearing shabby clothes and a perpetual three-day beard, and looking alternately sullen and soulful (the difference is minimal).

This is meant to pass for acting and characterization.

Tyler has a roommate, Aidan (Tate Ellington), who was apparently obtained from the Bureau of Annoying Roommates. He starts out by saying all the things to Tyler that the audience is thinking (mainly telling him he is a self-involved jerk), propels the plot with a preposterously stupid idea, and then hangs around because there’s no convenient way of getting him out of the movie. After 30 minutes of Aidan, you’re ready for him to be painlessly destroyed. By the 45-minute mark, you’re ready to negotiate on the painless part. But without Aidan there to goad Tyler into hitting on Ally Craig (Emilie de Ravin, TV’s Lost) in the dumbest revenge scheme ever concocted, there’s no plot. You see, Aidan has discovered that Ally is the daughter of Sgt. Neil Craig (Chris Cooper), the cop who roughed-up Tyler and tossed the pair of them in the pokey. Wouldn’t it be a hoot if Tyler seduced Ally to get back at her old man?

Thanks to a shared taste in high-school-level profundity (“What are you undecided about?”

Response: “Everything”), Ally proves a fairly easy mark, but then she, too, is damaged, having seen (in the movie’s opening scene) her mother shot by muggers on a subway platform back in 1991. It follows as the night the day that Tyler actually falls in love with her, thereby neatly set-

She’s Out of My LeaguE JJJ

Director: Jim Field Smith Players: Jay Baruchel, Alice Eve, T.J. Miller, Mike Vogel, Nate Torrence Romantic Comedy

Rated R

The Story: A dorky airport security guard suddenly finds himself in a relationship with a woman who he worries is too attractive for him.

The Lowdown: An often pleasant, occasionally amusing romantic comedy that’s more harmless than good.

Bargain-basement Judd Apatow is the best descriptor for Jim Field Smith’s She’s Out of My League. It’s the same formula: a romantic comedy peopled by slackers who come out on top, but not before some heartfelt character growth and a smattering of R-rated high jinks. The strange thing is that the makers almost get it right.

That “almost” is the rub, however. The plot follows the usual romcom blueprint: Boy meets girl in an out-of-left-field situation, romance sprouts, but misunderstandings occur to muck everything up, only for it all to be tidied up in the final reel.

It’s a concept that’s been dug up and dusted off

more than dinosaur bones and here there is nary a surprise nor shock to be found.

Jay Baruchel (Tropic Thunder) plays Kirk, an underachieving, dorky airport-security agent, who meets the supposedly stunningly beautiful Molly (Alice Eve, Crossing Over). According to the film, Molly appears to be the end all, be all of feminine perfection, but she looks a little too much like a classier version of the girl from Warrant’s “Cherry Pie” video for me to take this seriously. Nevertheless, the two fall into a relationship and the crux of the film revolves around Kirk’s insecurities surrounding dating someone “out of his league.”

Even with a plot that runs on rails, the film has a difficult time with defining motivations — characters delve into relationships or start arguments for no other reason than the almighty script has decreed it from on high. All of this — as well as some clunky bits of acting towards the beginning that feel like excerpts from commercials for feminine-hygiene products — isn’t enough to totally sink the film. That’s because there’s a genuineness and likability in the way the film goes about its business. Baruchel, who has had a tidy little career offering comedic support, probably shouldn’t have attempted carrying a film.

But he’s likable enough as this type of nebbish sort, even if I couldn’t shake the feeling that he was giving a pretty serviceable Christian Slater impersonation.

There’s nothing all that knee-slappingly hilarious in the film; the humor rarely rises above the realm of amusing. And yet, somehow, this is something of a small victory. Maybe my delicate sensibilities have been somewhat calloused by the diarrhea jokes of I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell (2009) or the supposed hilarity of date rape in Observe and Report (2009), but She’s Out of My League’s version of the gross-out — a series of gags revolving around scrotal shaving — doesn’t seem so bad (granted, the premature ejaculation bit in the trailer is even more pointless in the film proper).

As a whole, the film is harmless and painless.

Sure, I suppose there’s something to be said for that, but this is the movies we’re talking about, not dental surgery, so call this a tepid endorsement at best. Rated R for language and sexual content. reviewed by Justin Souther Playing at Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Cinebarre, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande 15, United Artists Beaucatcher Cinema 7.

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ting up the required next-to-last reel of true love not running smoothly, since the truth of how the relationship started is bound to come out.

There are all manner of plot embellishments — mostly involving strained relationships with fathers. However, Tyler has problems not just with his filthy rich and nonspecifically powerful father’s (Pierce Brosnan) coolly indifferent attitude toward him, but also with his precocious, slightly misfit little sister (Ruby Jerins, Shutter Island). Ally’s father is too controlling. People get slapped, a fire extinguisher gets thrown, threats are exchanged, relationships are damaged — until finally everybody turns out to be better than you think they are and things are on an even course. Ah, but then comes the twist.

Tyler goes to meet his father (who is delayed, as typical) at his very lofty (hint) skyscraper office, where he learns (via a screensaver slide show) how very devoted dad really is. Meanwhile, little sister’s teacher writes the date on the blackboard and hits us with one of those moments (usually played for laughs as in Time Bandits (1981)) where someone on shipboard moves out of the way so we can see a life-preserver labeled “S.S. Titanic” hanging behind them. Yes, it’s September 11, 2001, and Tyler is on the 90-somethingth floor of a skyscraper. Oh, which one can it be? Yes. The camera moves away from the building and the screen goes black. Funny thing is, I might have been impressed with the tasteless chutzpah on display here had it stopped there. But no, we’re in for minutes of aftermath footage, mostly concentrating on the emotions of Tyler’s surviving friends and family, making it appear that the tragedy is really all about him — and Aidan getting “Tyler” tattooed on his arm. Ye gods. Rated PG-13 for violence, sexual content, language and smoking. reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande 15.

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marketplace

Classified Advertising Sales Team: • Tim Navaille: 828-251-1333 ext.111, tnavaille@mountainx.com • Rick Goldstein: 828-251-1333 ext.123, rgoldstein@mountainx.com • Arenda Manning: 828-251-1333 ext. 138, amanning@mountainx.com

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The Green Family Goes Green

The FAQs About Green Building

by Elizabeth Koenig When Mrs. Green peruses the detergent and soap isle at her favorite “green” grocery stores (you know, Greenlife, Earthfare and the French Broad Food CoOp), she often wonders what makes environmentally friendly dish detergents so much more special than regular old dish soaps.

A little research revealed that most dish detergents contain phosphates, which helps get dishes really clean. But when washed down the drain and into the waterways, phosphates cause algae blooms that kill fish and disturb ecosystems.

Many people complain that phosphate-free dish detergent doesn’t get their dishes as clean — and that may very well be true if your water is hard (i.e. it contains dissolved minerals, such as calcium or magnesium). Here in Western North Carolina, we have soft water — low in minerals, though sometimes high in sodium. Detergents have little trouble forming cleansing lathers in soft water.

After learning this, Mrs. Green started looking out for phosphate-free dish detergent: If it works here, may as well use it!

Learn More: www.grist.org/article/2009-04-21-diswasher-detergent/

provided by the WNC Green Building Council www.wncgbc.org

realestate

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The 2010 Green Building Directory...

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mountainx.com

• MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010

• ROOFING & SIDING • WATERPROOFING

HEATING & AIR • PAINTING • REMODELING • KITCHENS & BATHS • LAWN & GARDN

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COMPACT COTTAGE COMPANY • Small “green”-built buildings usable for an enormous variety of practical applications, such as: Sleep, Work, Mother-in-law storage, Poker, Karaoke, Be in the doghouse in. From $15K30K. compactcottages.com, 828-254-5450.

Real Estate

Homes For Sale

$159,900 • DARLING GARDEN HOME Below tax value! 3BR, 2BA, 1392 sqft. Great neighborhood near downtown Hendersonville. Recent quality construction, garage, private patio, designer upgrades.

MLS#451875. 809A South Whitted. (828) 274-5059. • 40+ photos: www.JoyProperties.com $178,800 • NORTH 2BR, 1.5BA well-insulated Townhome w/garage. • Very desirable neighborhood. Deck. Walk to stores, banks, restaurants, UNCA, post office. 254-1102.

$226,800 • HIGHLY DESIRABLE 1920’s cottage, West Asheville: 3BR with formal dining and living room.

Hardwood floors, large covered front porch. Room for expansion in huge basement.

MLS#459249. Call Kenny Horton: 582-4509.

TownandMountainRealty.com

$425,000 • SPECIAL HOME Next to Asheville School in private neighborhood. 5BR, 3BA, LR, DR w/fireplace. Lovely sunporch. MLS#459280. Call Kenny Horton: 582-4509.

TownandMountainRealty.com

1000’s OF ASHEVILLE HOMES! On our user friendly property search. New features include Google Mapping and Popular Neighborhood searches. Check it out at www.townandmountain.com

1960’S RETRO HOUSE IN KENILWORTH FOREST FOR SALE For detailed information go to http://www.reallyoffthewall.com /house.html or to go an MLS listing site and search for MLS# 457201. 828-505-0741.

828-775-3663.

22 ACRE ESTATE • UPPER RICEVILLE • $1,150,000 This home was built with the finest craftsmanship. Cathedral ceilings, custom kitchen, private

$182,500 • GREAT PRICE! Park-like setting. 5 acres of gentle wooded land. • 4BR, 3BA. Open plan. Spacious kitchen. Cathedral ceiling.

Covered wrap around porch.

Additional 2BR apartment.

MLS#459722. Steve DuBose: (828) 622-3518. Mountain Home Properties. sdubose@ mountaindream.com

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Search all WNC properties including foreclosures at www.BuncombeRealty.com, view any home within 24 hours, 828-301-2021.

master suite, decks. Creeks, pond, views, gardens. 15 minutes east of Asheville, adjoining National Park Service land. MLS #456600. Call Bill Palas, (828) 691-7194.

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ASHEVILLE BUNGALOW FOR SALE Charming bungalow centrally located above McCormick field and adjacent to large city park. 2BR/1BA with bonus room, office, fireplace, and hardwood floors. Fenced back yard and great front porch. $225,000 benrip@gmail.com.

828 380-0841.

BENDING OVER BACKWARDS! For our clients! (828) 713-5337.

• Free expert Buyer representation. • Search all MLS listings in 1 location: AshevilleHolisticRealty.com

EMD <EH L;HO BEM CEDJ>BO F7OC;DJI 7dZ H[c[cX[h # ."&&& JWn 9h[Z_j ;nf_h[i 7fh_b )&" (&'& 9B?D=C7D 7L;DK; BE< JI • 1 & 2 BR Condominiums • Close to downtown • Nine foot ceilings • Energy Star and NC HealthyBuilt Home certified • Private Balconies

SWEET HOME IN WOODS 3BR/1BA, 920sf,1 acre. Light, airy, wraparound deck. Tile floors in kitchen/dining/bathroom. Winter views. Stream. Fairview area, 25 minutes to Asheville. $133,500. (828)628-6106.

WEST ASHEVILLE BUNGALOW FOR SALE 1,050 sq-ft, 2 bed/1 bath, bonus room, large/private lot, new siding/floors, artist studio. Great location. $212,000. Call 828-280-7537.

GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION 3BR, 2.5BA with garage. Great South location. • Lease/purchase options now available. Call (828) 676-0677 for details. www.123newhomenow.com GREAT VALUE FOR THIS 3BR/1BA WEST ASHEVILLE HOME • Unfinished basement, garden area, and open kitchen/living room area all within walking distance of Haywood Rd. Priced to sell at $129,900. Please contact Jim Gallagher with Keller Williams, 828-230-3660.

STONE COTTAGE FOR SALE Fully renovated stone house close to downtown, hospital, city park, and McCormick field.

3BR/2BA with cedar shake front porch and large privacy fence in back yard. Stainless appliances, central heat and air, stone fireplace and hardwood floors. Email or call for Pictures.

Benrip@gmail.com $290,000.

(828)380-0841.

Condos For Sale

ON-SITE REAL ESTATE AUCTION • The living estate of Eloise W. Palmore • 175 W. Chestnut St., Asheville NC 28801. Friday, March 26, 2010 • 5:00pm.

Historic Montford Area. 1920’s arts and crafts bungalow. One block off Montford Ave. Approx.

1200 sq.ft. 3BR, 1BA. Original cedar shake siding. Needs updating and renovations.

Inspections by appointment only. For pictures/info: www.bramsey.com Sale in conjunction with court appointed guardian attorney Victor Garlock and the Law Firm of Cynthia Alleman. Sold subject to court confirmation.

Accelerated Real Estate Marketing Group. P.O. Box 399 Marshall, NC, 28753. 828-6499898 828-273-8822. NCAL 2789 * NCAFL 7879

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$299,900 Downtown Healthy Built 3 Bdrm, 3 bath cool modern interiors.

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MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 •

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LEXINGTON STATION Downtown high-end condos on Lexington Ave. Hardwood floors, stainless appliances, balconies, fitness center, parking. 3BR penthouse: $525,000 • 1BR: $185,000. • 2BR: $260,000. The Real Estate Center: (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com COHOUSING TOWNHOUSE Three bedroom two bath townhouse in Westwood Cohousing Community. Ten minute walk to bus and West Asheville stores. www.westwoodcohousing.com. paularww@bellsouth.net

$177,000 • GREEN BUILT DOWNTOWN TOWNHOME This energy efficient townhome was built under the NC Healthy Built Home Program. The floorplan has a great room with front porch on the main level, 2 bedrooms above. One parking space included. MLS#457438.

Call Sona, (828) 216-7908. www.appalachianrealty.com $180,000 • REDUCED! • CLINGMAN AVENUE Between Downtown and the River Arts District. New 2BR, 2BA urban condo. Parking, storage, private balcony. The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

4.3 ACRES BUNCOMBE COUNTY • Build your own minifarm. Totally private paradise with creek near eco-village. $64K. (828) 669-7483.

Home Services

Heating & Cooling CONSERVE ENERGY/MONEY! Home Weatherization. Building Performance Institute Certified Home Energy Auditor. • Infared Thermal Imaging • Blower-door Testing • Gas Safety Inspections • Air-Sealing. (828) 329-0799 or (828) 367-2061. Asheville Energy Audits.

MAYBERRY HEATING AND COOLING INC • Service • Repairs • Replacements AC/Heat Pumps • Gas/Oil Furnaces • New Construction/Renovations • Indoor Air Quality Products.

(828) 658-9145.

Upholstery UPHOLSTERY AND RESTORATION Quality and friendly custom restoration services for all your upholstery needs. • Auto • Home. Free estimates. (828) 776-8220.

Kitchen & Bath ELK MOUNTAIN ASSOCIATES We specialize in • re-fitting Bathrooms and Kitchens and finishing Basements • adding Garages, Porches and • Sunrooms. • Professional education and experience. Call (828) 242-1950 or (for all our information): elkmountainassociates.com

Cleaning

4+ ACRES Beautiful, sunny mountain and valley views.

Meadows and mature woods.

Gentle building site with additional site on knoll in the woods. $59,500. MLS#460122.

• Steve DuBose: (828) 6223518. Mountain Home Properties. sdubose@ mountaindream.com

ASHEVILLE’S GREENEST CLEANING SERVICE • WL&L Cleaning service Includes: Residential / Commercial. FREE ESTIMATES. Competitive Pricing.

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Real Estate Services

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HISTORIC S&W CONDOS • REDUCED! New condos in the heart of downtown in historic art deco building. 3rd and 4th floor units w/elevator access and city or mountain views. From $287,400. The Real Estate Center: (828) 255-4663, www.recenter.com • info@recenter.com

Land For Sale

Includes Mortgage, Taxes & Association Fees

Includes mortgage, taxes and association fees. 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths.

Less than 4 miles from downtown Asheville and minutes from UNCA.

I BUY ALL HOMES NO MATTER WHAT CONDITION! I will buy any condition home for CASH. Please call Rob Sargent at 828719-8052. robertmsargent@gmail.com - I Can Help.

777-7786 Bill MacCurdy - Owner/Broker

DOWNTOWN KRESS BUILDING Custom Condo in the historic Kress Building. 2 PINs, adjoining spiral staircase. Original maple floors, private balconies, high ceilings. • $525,000, lease/purchase also available for $1800/month. MLS#456097.

The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

PRIME WEST ASHEVILLE LOT • Walk to Haywood or just to the park. 0.23 acres off Davenport Rd. MLS #458548. $56K. cindy@ashevilleproperty.com 828-243-0217, 828-210-3636. www.ashevilleproperty.com

HIDDEN TREASURES Distinctive, Remodels, and New Construction. • Small projects to Grand! • We’ll help you evaluate, design and transform your home into your Dream Home. • 25 years experience. • Efficient • Affordable • Reliable.

628-9651 or 279-2606.

HOME WATER LEAKS A Problem? Excellent leak detection! Lasting correction!

Experience! References! Call 828-273-5271.

Handy Man HIRE A HUSBAND Handyman Services. 30 years professional experience. Quality, reliability. References available. Free estimates. $2 million liability insurance. Stephen Houpis, (828) 280-2254.

RELIABLE REPAIRS! Quality work! All types maintenance/repair, indoor/outdoor. • Excellent water leak detection/correction!

• Wind damaged shingle/roof repair! 38 years experience!

Responsible! Honest!

Harmonious! References! Call Brad, you’ll be Glad! (828) 2735271.

Construction MAINTENANCE CONSTRUCTION ASSISTANT NEEDED Have valid NCDL, at least 18yrs, understand basic construction principles, building maintenance knowledge helpful/not required.$9.00 hour/start. Apply in person, call 828-665-4150 between 9am3pm M/F for directions.

Services Education/Tutoring HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in just 4 weeks!! FREE Brochure. Call now. 1-800-5326546 Ext. 97 http://www.continentalacademy. com (AAN CAN)

Commercial Property COMMERCIAL FOR SALE • Downtown, Lexington Avenue ground-level w/high ceilings, hardwood floors, $445,000.

• Downtown building on 0.36 acres with parking, corner of Grove and Patton, $675,000.

• Leicester Highway, high traffic corridor, building on 1.0 acre corner lot, new, $495,000.

• The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

Commercial For Lease 1 MONTH FREE! (W/12 month lease). River Arts Studios starting at $180/month, includes utilities. Call 250-9700 or e-mail: rega@charterinternet.com 2 GREAT LOCATIONS • HENDERSONVILLE ROAD • Class A office space for lease. • Restaurant space for lease.

1514 sqft. (828) 691-0586.

75 SQFT OFFICE Renovated 348 Merrimon Avenue building.

Second floor with view of Grove Park Inn. Shared lobby space, kitchenette, and ample parking. $225/month. Call for an appointment: (828) 582-5397. office@trilliumproperties.net ASHEVILLE • ALL POINTS Check out our inventory of commercial property starting at $595-$6000 monthly lease or $295K and up for sale. Paula Cooper, The Real Estate Center, (828) 775-1485. www.recenter.com

Financial AFFORDABLE TAX FILING I will save you money! • E-filing • Business • Individual. • 20 years professional experience.

Muriel Smith, Accountant. Call (828) 252-6500.

INCOME TAX RETURN PREPARATION • Income tax returns for individuals and small businesses. If you need help, please contact us. David Houck (828)667-0757 davehouck@davehouck.com www.davehouck.com

Caregivers MOMMY’S HELPER • Nanny with credentials and transportation. Includes academic tutoring. Please call 828-318-5080.

Commercial Listings

2-ROOM SUITE, WEST ASHEVILLE New 2nd floor construction, hi-traffic Haywood Rd and Patton Ave. Big windows, central air/heat, most utilities included, $550/mo. Call 828-712-8290 ASHEVILLE DOWNTOWN OFFICE SPACE Historic Miles Building. 2 Wall Street. Large and small suites available.

Some have hardwood floors. All have charm, high ceilings and are updated. We are a nonsmoking, friendly working community. For Inquiries: mrsmawest@yahoo.com or 828 242-5456 SPACE FOR RENT — ASHEVILLE NATURAL HEALTH & HOMEOPATHY Appropriate for counselors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, others. Full and part-time offices for rent starting at $125 per month.

Reception/web presence/advertising negotiable.

Nice building. 12x12 offices in a great location with other successful practitioners. Call 230-7067.

Rentals

Apartments For Rent 1 & 2 BEDROOMS • APRIL FREE RENT Starting at $595/Month!* Apartment living in a park-like setting. • Hurry! * Special pricing ends March 31, 2010! * Price based on a 12 month lease. Call 274-4477.

EHO. woodsedge.webs.com 1 FREE MONTH! (w/contract).

Live, work and play downtown.

• Studio: $545/month. Call 2542229. APM

Computer COMPUTER SERVICE AT YOUR DOORSTEP We Come To You! • PC and Mac • Slow computer?

We’ll speed it up. • Repairs • Upgrades • Networking • Tutoring. Senior Citizen/Nonprofit Discounts. Call Christopher’s Computers, 828670-9800. Member Better Business Bureau of WNC. christopherscomputers.com

Business Rentals

ATTRACTIVE, 2,000 SQ,FT. DOWNTOWN OFFICE • 55 Grove Street. Four offices, break room, large reception area.

Below market at $10/ sq. ft.

Ample parking nearby. Practical and beautiful. Call (828) 2539451.

DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE: For lease. Retail and office suites, 222 to 2,964 sqft. Very prominent locations. Call G/M Property Group, 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com LEXINGTON STATION 2000+ sqft, first floor, high ceilings, hardwoods throughout, one handicap accessible restroom, parking. $2200/month. The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com NORTH ASHEVILLE Basement level of the Sherwin Williams building, approximately 6500 sqft, $3000/month. The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com RETAIL • NORTH ASHEVILLE Bright, clean, nearly new space on Merrimon. 1000 sqft, plus 700 sqft storage, $1500/month.

(828) 606-5134. ajm.urbangreen@gmail.com RIVER DISTRICT 6,000 sqft shell - artists; flexible uses.

Owner will upfit for Class A office. Call G/M Property Group, 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com

1-2BR/1-1.5BA SOUTH, SKYLAND HEIGHTS AC, storage, $525-$625/month.

828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 1-3BR, 1BA EAST • 7 Violet Hills. $475-$595/month. A/C, D/W. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 1, 2, 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS From $525$1500. • Huge selection! • Pet friendly. (828) 251-9966.

Alpha-Real-Estate.com 1.5BR, 1BA SOUTH • 630 Rose Hill. Patio, carpet floors. $595/month. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 1920’s ON HILLSIDE ST. • Between downtown and UNCA. Very large 1BR with LR, formal DR, kitchen with sunny breakfast spot. Top floor for privacy and quiet. $745/month includes heat, hot and cold water, laundry facilities. Cat ok, sorry no dogs. Year lease, sec dep, credit ck req. For appt: Elizabeth Graham 253-6800.

1BA/STUDIO • 85 Merrimon.

Sprint Special! All utilities included. $500/month. 828253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR - NORTH • Gas heat. $475/month. 828-253-0758.

Carver Realty

1BR, 1BA ARDEN • 10 Mountain. Secluded. Carpet floors. $490/month. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com

2BR, 2BA SOUTH • 19 Ravenscroft. Fireplace, patio. $735/month. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com

1BR, 1BA HENDERSONVILLE • 1225 Highland. Elevator, hardwood floors. $475$575/month. 828-693-8069. www.leslieandassoc.com

2BR/1.5BA HENDERSONVILLE 912 Hillcrest, $595/month.

Deck, 2 Car Garage. 828-6938069, www.leslieandassoc.com

1BR, 1BA HENDERSONVILLE • 2010 Laurel Park Highway. Heat included. Hardwood floors. $495-$525. 828-693-8069. www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR, 1BA Hendersonville 827 4th Ave, $650/month. Hardwood Floors, water Included, 828693-8069. www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR, 1BA NORTH • 83 Edgemont. Sunroom, A/C, hardwood floors. $685/month.

828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR/1BA NORTH • 82 Merrimon. $595/month.

Hardwood floors, water included. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1.5BA SOUTH • 2 Oakview. Heat pump, dishwasher. $600/month. 828253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1.5BA SWANNANOA • 532 Warren Wilson. Carpet, W/D hookups. $710/month. 828253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA DOWNTOWN • 68 N. French Broad Ave. Views, A/C. $750/month. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA SOUTH • 6 Lakewood. AC, W/D hookups. $650-$675/month. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA WEST • 9 King Arthur. D/W, patio. $625/month.

828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA • Downtown Weaverville. Great kitchen/laundry room with W/D included. 828-775-9434.

2BR, 2BA CENTRAL • 130 Aurora. A/C. Great location. $690/month. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 2BA NORTH • 81 Lakeshore. Porch, coin-operated laundry. $675/month. www.leslieandassoc.com

ACTON WOODS APARTMENTS • Beautiful 2BR, 2BA, loft, $850/month. • 2BR, 2BA, $750.

Include gas log fireplace, water, storage. 828-253-0758.

Carver Realty AN EXECUTIVE PENTHOUSE SUITE In the historic Grove Arcade, downtown Asheville.

3BR, 4BA, 3 secure parking spaces. • Fireplace, terrace views, full-service amenities. • Walk to everything: shopping, dining, art and entertainment.

Must see to appreciate! Call Amber Ammons, Property Manager: (828) 252-7799 extension 305 or to see more: www.tessierassociates.com

2BR/1.5BA NORTH 47 Albemarle, $845/month.

Fireplace, deck. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR/1BA NORTH 501 Beaverdam, $545/month.

Mountain Views, Washer/Dryer hookups, 828-253-151. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR/1BA NORTH 87 Wild Cherry, $635/month. Good location, Washer/Dryer hookups, 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR/1BA WEST • 217 Bear Creek. $615/month. Central A/C - Heat, deck. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com

ASHEVILLE • WEST 2BR, 1BA, deck, WD connections, off street parking, close to park, walk to Haywood Road. Pets considered. $650/month. Call (828) 279-2936. www.masinvestmentsllc.com

2BR/1BA WEST • 45 Florida. $615/month. W/D connections, deck. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com

APARTMENT FOR RENT 2BR, 2BA at Carson’s Creek off Hendersonville Rd. Wooded view, vaulted ceiling. Reduced to $600/month. Call 768-1167, 779-1473.

2BR/2BA ARDEN, GLEN BEALE, 2nd Month RENT FREE, AC. $655/month. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR/2BA NORTH 265 Charlotte, $865/month. Historic, hardwood floors. 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR/2BA, ARDEN • 216 Weston, A/C, 2nd Month Rent Free. $795/month. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com 3 APARTMENTS • OAKLEY • WEST ASHEVILLE Oakley, 2BR, 1BA, $625/month. 423-0081 • West Asheville, both 1BR, 1BA, $585/month and $650/month.

423-0082. See more: weloveasheville.com 3BR, 2BA duplex near Haw Creek. New, modern duplex community next to Bell School, Tunnel Road, East Asheville. Rooms on one level; 1/3 acre lot. Cats or 1 small dog okay. $875/month. Park-like setting, flower beds, huge trees. April 1st. 299-7502.

79,*0:065 ,(9;/>692: Fine Grading & Site Preparation

Ecological Site Planning & Landscape Design • Excavation & Roads •Water Harvesting/ Management • Stonework • Bridges & Gazebos • Water Features • Renewable Energy Specializing in Bridge & Roadwork P r e c i s i o n @ e a rt h a v e n . o r g

Brandon Greenstein • Paul Caron (828) 664-9127 | 301-7934 Co-Creating Your Natural Landscape

ARDEN-SKYLAND • On Springside near Roberson and Valley Springs: Large 2BR with huge great room, big kitchen with dishwasher, utility room with WD connection. $635/month. Year’s lease, sec dep, credit ck req. For appt call Elizabeth Graham: 253-6800.

BEVERLY TOWNHOUSE • Between downtown and Biltmore village. 2BR, 1BA. Hardwood floors, newly painted, modern lighting and updated kitchen with Corian countertops, washer/dryer. End unit with quiet green and gardening space. $725/month, $350 deposit. Small pets considered.

Available immediately AND For Sale: $114,000 . (828) 5453163.

BLACK MOUNTAIN • 2BR, 1BA. Heatpump, central air, W/D connection. Nice area. Only $550/month. 828-252-4334.

CUTE EFFICIENCY/STUDIO • Between UNCA and Downtown.

Just renovated. $450/month.

Includes hot/cold water. Year lease, credit check, security deposit. Elizabeth, 828-253-6800.

DOWNTOWN Cozy apartment ground floor, parking, HD TV and DSL. Couch and table. W/D. Available May 1, $700/month + 2 month deposit. No smoking, no pets. Bernie 828-230-0755.

EAST • QUIET APARTMENT Ideal for serious student/professional. • Cozy 1BR: nice kitchen, washer/dryer.

Patio. Private parking.

•$475/month. References.

Lease. • No smokers. • Available now. • (828) 6860072.

EFFICIENCY 289 E. Chestnut.

Ground floor units. MOVE IN SPECIAL 2nd month free + 6 month lease. $450/month.

828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com EXCEPTIONAL 2 OR 3BR, 2BA • Off Charlotte St. in quiet duplex. Hardwood floors, 2-car garage. Walk to City Bakery.

Great walking neighborhood. $995/month. Year lease, credit check, security deposit. One pet considered with fee. Elizabeth, 828-253-6800.

FREE RENT Sign a lease in March and receive Free Rent at Woodridge Apartments! • 61 Bingham Road, Asheville, off Keith Road. • Dishwasher, WD connections, all appliances.

Water, garbage and sewer included! Pet friendly. No application fee, bus service every hour. • 1, 2, 3 and 4BR homes! Section 8 welcomed!

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Professionally managed by Partnership Property Management. • Call now (828) 250-0159.

GLEN BRIDGE APTS - 1BR. 1BA Arden. Includes water. MOVE IN SPECIAL 2nd month free + 6 month lease. $450/month.

828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com GREAT APARTMENT • NORTH/CENTRAL 1BR, 1BA, walk downtown, stainless appliances, hardwood floors. • Deck, yard and pets considered! $700/month, water/garbage included. Call (828) 279-3926.

HENDERSONVILLE • 1BR/1BA. Walking distance to Main St. Includes water. $395/month.

828-252-4334. WNC Rentals HENDERSONVILLE • Studio.

Walking distance to downtown.

Includes water. Only $325/month. 828-252-4334.

WNC Rentals.

MONTFORD-CHARMING 1BR • Hardwood floors, gas heat, formal L/R and D/R. Private front porch. $650/month.

Includes water. Year lease, credit check, security deposit. One cat okay. Elizabeth, 828-253-6800.

NORTH ASHEVILLE 2BR, 1BA. Kimberly Ave. area. H/W floors.

Includes water/garbage/heat. $795/month. www.arcagencyasheville.com SOUTH • Forestdale. 1-2BR, 1BA. 2nd month rent free. $525-$625/month. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com STUDIO, 1BA DOWNTOWN • 85 Walnut. Roof access, hardwood floors. $695/month.

828-253-1517. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com WEST ASHEVILLE 1BR, 1BA. Large unit, top floor. H/W floors, new windows. Includes water/heat/garbage. $650/month. 828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com

Mobile Homes For Rent 3BR, 2BA WEST ASHEVILLE • Near downtown and on bus line. Nice park, like new. W/D connection. Accepting Section 8. $595/month. 828-252-4334.

WNC Rentals.

Condos/ Townhomes For Rent 15 MINUTES TO DOWNTOWN Crowell Farms Condo. End unit.

West Pointe Townhouse. 3BR, 2.5BA,1700 sq-ft, 2 car garage, gas heat/fireplace, central AC, cathedral ceilings, hardwood floors. Easy access to I-40 and I-26. $1,250/month 1 month deposit. Tom: (828)626-2215 tombosco@tds.net A BIG THANX! “Thanx Xpress!

The recent rental ad attracted a steady stream of quality applicants, thanks to your quality publication.” Mark K. • You too can find quality renters by placing an affordable ad in the pages of Mountain Xpress Classified Marketplace: 251-1333.

ARDEN - Bramblewood condo.

2BR, 2BA. $695/month. Nice unit. Sorry, no pets.

828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com DOWNTOWN CONDO Top floor unit 2BR, 2BA, views of Mount Pisgah, hardwoods, stainless appliances, granite countertops, jet tub, balcony, fitness center, 2 parking spaces, $1475/month.

The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

MOVE IN NOW Get April FREE!* 1 and 2 Bedrooms starting at $595/month • Great location • Great prices

Call today: (828) 274-4477 www.woodsedge.webs.com *Must move in by 03/31/10 to get April FREE.

mountainx.com

• MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010

73

Employment

jobs

General

LUXURY DOWNTOWN CONDO Split 2BR/2BA, great kitchen gas fireplace, parking, storage.

Next to Pack Library. $1,450.

Bright Star Realty 828-3018033.

A BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN CHALET 7 minutes from downtown Asheville. 1BR w/loft, fully furnished, WD, nice deck. $1300/month. Angela O’Brien: (828) 216-1610. Mountain Vista Properties.

NORTH ASHEVILLE TOWNHOMES •Special• Off Merrimon. Walking distance to town. 1BR, 1BA. $495/month • 2BR, 1BA $545/month • 3BR, 1BA 595/month. Includes water.

828-252-4334. WNC Rentals.

A WEST ASHEVILLE RANCHER Great neighborhood! 3-4BR, 2BA. All appliances, eat-in kitchen, large living room.

Fenced yard, large back deck. $995/month. 254-6029.

NORTH ASHEVILLE TOWNHOUSE • Walking distance to town. 1BR, 1BA. $495/month - 2BR,1BA $545/month - 2BR, 2BA $595/month. Includes water.

0828-252-4334. WNC Rentals.

ALL AREAS - HOUSES FOR RENT. Browse thousands of rental listings with photos and maps. Advertise your rental home for FREE! Visit: http://www.RealRentals.com (AAN CAN)

Homes For Rent ASHLEY WOODS • Large 3BR, 2.5BA. Lovely corner lot. Fenced back yard. $1875/month. 828253-0758. Carver Realty

$8000 TAX CREDIT • NOW IS THE TIME Stop paying rent and start life as a homeowner.

Prices are down, the market is up and we know Asheville! Call us: (828) 210-2222.

AshevilleCityRealEstate.com 10 MINUTES TO DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE 3BR, 2BA home on large lot. Convenient location, near I-40/I-26. Great condition! $995/month. • Pets allowed.

Call APM: (828) 254-2029.

1ST CALL US! 2, 3 and 4BR homes from $700-2500. • Pet friendly. • Huge selection!

(828) 251-9966 Alpha-Real-Estate.com 2BR, 1.5BA NORTH • 172 Macon. 2nd month free. Garage. $695/month. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA SWANNANOA • 1244 Bee Tree. 12 acres.

Hardwood floors. $745/month.

828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BBA WEST • 15 Eliada.

Great house, A/C. $935/month.

828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 2BA NORTH • 27 Spooks Mill Cove. $1075/month. Views, all utilities included. 828-2531517. www.leslieandassoc.com 3BR, 2BA NORTH • 6 Westminster. Garage, wraparound porch. $1,285/month.

828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com 3BR/1.5BA WEST • 28 Covington. $1,095/month.

Basement. 828-253-1517. www.leslieandassoc.com

74

HAW CREEK 3BR, 1BA. Large lot, nice area. One pet okay with deposit. $950/month. 828-3509400. www.arcagencyasheville.com

AMAZING! I have always used Mountain Xpress as advertising for our rental house. I’m amazed each time by the number of responses and the caliber of people it attracts.

Thanks, John S. You too can get great results! Call 251-1333.

Mountain Xpress Classified Marketplace.

ASHEVILLE AREA RENTALS $550-$1950/month. • 1-East. • 3-West. • 3-North. • 3-South. • Century 21 Mountain Lifestyles: (828) 684-2640, ext 17. For more details: www.DebraMarshall.com BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN VIEWS 2BR, 1.5BA, bonus room, new appliances, laundry room, hardwood floors, gas fireplace, AC. Nice deck overlooks downtown. $895/month. 687-1954.

BLACK MOUNTAIN 2BR, 2BA. Nice house in quiet subdivision. $750/month. 828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com BUNGALOW • WEST ASHEVILLE Walk to everything West Asheville! Quiet street.

3BR, 1BA, hardwood floors, new kitchen appliances, fireplace.

Basement w/WD. Large fenced backyard. • Pets considered. $1100/month. 1 year lease.

Deposit. • Available now. Call Robert: 230-9412.

CANDLER 3BR, 2BA. New unit. $1,100/month. 828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com EAST ON GOLF COURSE 3BR, 2BA. Brand new home. H/W floors, fireplace, laundry area. $950/month. 828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com EAST RIDGE SUBDIVISION 2BR, 2BA. Wonderful unit, like new. Spacious office/bonus room. No pets. $1,150/month.

828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com

MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010 •

Vacation Rentals

IMMACULATE 3 BR, 2.5 BA KENILWORTH HOME FOR RENT Fenced yard. Pet friendly.

Garage, stone patio, huge storage,garden space, built 2002. $1295/month. rachelasheville@gmail.com

A BEACH HOUSE At Folly. The legendary dog-friendly Rosie’s Ocean View and Kudzu’s Cottage now booking now booking for oyster season! Call (828) 216-7908. www.kudzurose.com

KENILWORTH 3BR, 2BA house w/possible 4th BR. Hardwood and ceramic tile floors, AC, gas heat, dishwasher, washer/dryer, fenced yard. $1350/month.

(828) 255-4663. The Real Estate Center.

BEAUTIFUL LOG CABIN Sleeps 5, handicap accessible. Near Warren Wilson College, Asheville, NC. (828) 231-4504 or 277-1492. bennie14@bellsouth.net

LEICESTER 2BR, 1BA + office.

Lots of land to enjoy the quiet.

15 minutes to Asheville. Pets okay with deposit. $795/month.

828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com LITTLE COTTAGE IN THE WOODS • Mars Hill. 1BR. Private deck and yard. 400 sq.ft. Wooded lot, 25 minutes to downtown Asheville. $400/month. 828-777-1420.

BEST TIME IS NOW! Best time to buy, pay less than rent, 1% rebate from Buyer Agent Commission, see www.BuncombeRealty.com, 301-2021.

CANDLER • 3BR, 3BA. Private. $1,200/month. Call 828-2530758. Carver Realty

GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION 3BR, 2.5BA with garage. Great South location. • Lease/purchase options now available. Why rent when you can own! Call (828) 676-0677 for details. www.123newhomenow.com

WONDERFUL HOME • 3BR, 2 full BA. Split-level, hardwood floors, large carpeted living room, garage, heat pump. 1600 sq ft. Exit 44 off I-40. 10 minutes to Asheville. Perfect family home with the security of a dead end street, a flat yard with fenced back yard and great neighbors. Wonderful back porch large enough for entertaining. $1200/month, 1 year lease. View pictures @ http://picasaweb.google.com/ju piterbailey/Houses# Call 828777-3222 or email brandicasebailey@gmail.com

LOG CABIN - RENOVATED EAST ASHEVILLE 1BR/1BA, extra room. Furnished, W/D, dishwasher, Jacuzzi, fenced, convenient to Mall/VA, quiet, friendly neighborhood, small pet considered. $700/month. Fred: 669-7533 NORTH ASHEVILLE TOWNHOMES • Special • Off Merrimon. Walking distance to town. 1BR, 1BA $495/month.

2BR, 1BA $545/month. 3BR, 1BA $595/month. Includes water. 828-252-4334. WNC Rentals.

READY TO RENT • WEST ASHEVILLE 3BR, 2 full BA, living room, dining room, utility room, washer, dryer, central A/C. Large storage space underneath home. Great family neighborhood. Walking distance to Carrier Park. Pets considered with deposit. $1,050/month + $1,050 security deposit. One year lease. 803-524-5229.

SWANNANOA - 3BR, 2BA. Cherry Blossom Cove subdivision across from ACA. $950 month. 828-350-9400. www.arcagencyasheville.com WEST ASHEVILLE - 3BR, 2BA. Off Haywood Rd. Fenced back yard. Bonus room. Fireplace.

One pet with deposit. $925/month.

Short-Term Rentals EXECUTIVE SUITE • EXTENDED STAY In the heart of downtown Asheville in the historic Grove Arcade. • Walk to dining, shopping, art and entertainment! Perfect short term 2BR, 2BA, 2 secure parking spaces. • Beautifully furnished with full-service amenities. Stylish and secure. • Contact Property Amber Ammons: (828) 252-7799 extension 305. See more: www.tessierassociates.com

Roommates 2-ROOM SUITE IN WEST ASHEVILLE HOUSE TO SHARE 2-room suite, West Asheville, private entrance, bathroom.

Shared kitchen, living room, deck. Friendly, outgoing man, 50s, cats, mainly vegetarian, non-smoker. $550 includes utilities, Internet. $275 deposit.

828-553-5185.

$$$HELP WANTED$$$ Extra Income! Assembling CD cases from Home! No Experience Necessary! Call our Live Operators Now! 1-800-4057619 EXT 2450 http://www.easyworkgreatpay.com (AAN CAN) BB BARNS THE GARDEN CENTER is looking for enthusiastic, responsible, industrious individuals to fulfill seasonal PT positions:Watering, Delivery Person, and a Nursery Worker. No previous experience is necessary. Currently applications are being accepted at 3377 Sweeten Creek Rd, Arden, NC 28704. FAX Resume to 828-650-7303. No phone inquires please.

BE A RAFT GUIDE! USA Raft French Broad, Nolichucky, Watauga and Nantahala Rivers is training whitewater rafting guides. • We’re also hiring Seasoned Guides and Trip Leaders, Photographers, Store Staff and CDL Bus Drivers. 1866-USA-Raft. www.usaraft.net CAB DRIVERS Needed at Blue Bird; call JT 258-8331. Drivers needed at Yellow Cab; call Buster at 253-3311.

CDL Drivers If you are a “people person” you could be a great tour guide! Training provided. Full- and part-time positions. Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville- (828) 251-8687 or elaine@graylineasheville.com COOK-PEER SUPPORT Provide food service and peer support to a women‚Äôs residential substance abuse program. Valid NC DL required. Contact 828667-0303 HIRE QUALITY EMPLOYEES “Our employment advertisements with the Mountain Xpress garner far more educated and qualified applicants than any other publication we have used. The difference is visible in the phone calls, applications and resumes.” Howard Stafford, Owner, Princess Anne Hotel. • Thank you, Howard. Your business can benefit by advertising for your next employee in Mountain Xpress Classifieds. Call 251-1333.

INTERVIEWERS NEEDED FOR SOCIAL RESEARCH Location: Cherokee, NC $13.18/hr.+mileage www.norc.org/careers click “Current Opportunities” Under job search enter 2010138

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please go to www.mountainx.com for additional listings.

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE / LAWN CARE LABORER 20-30 hours/week. Mainly weed eating. Experienced working commercial lawn care. $8.00 start. Pay negotiable DOE Respond to scott@darbycommunications.co m with phone # and resume.

ROOMMATES.COM • Browse hundreds of online listings with photos and maps. Find your roommate with a click of a mouse! Visit http://www.roommates.com.

(AAN CAN)

WAREHOUSE WORKER Part and full-time for Natural Products distributor. Competitive wages, great environment. Must be intelligent, hard working and self-motivated. Email resume to barry@ goldenneedleonline.com

mountainx.com

Employment Opportunities • Call (828) 225-6122 or visit: biltmore.com

Skilled Labor/ Trades EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPERS WANTED We are a familyowned and operated company seeking positive individuals who would like to grow with us. We offer a friendly, hardworking environment where customer service is at the core of what we do. Competitive wages. Email Dane, dane@frecklefarmdesign.com Freckle Farm FACILITIES MANAGER For 21,000 sqft community center housing childcare, afterschool, camp, pool, adult day, and social/cultural programs.

Oversight or performance of maintenance, repair, cleaning, groundskeeping and event setup. Inquire to heather@jccasheville.org or in person at 236 Charlotte Street. Full job description at www.jccasheville.org • Deadline to apply: Friday, March 26.

Administrative/ Office OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR • Four Circles Recovery Center, a wilderness substance abuse recovery program for young adults, is seeking a Office Administrator to assist in AR/AP processing, payroll, HR training and paperwork, budget management and other office related responsibilities.

Requirements: Associates degree in related field with a minimum of 2 years office experience, proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, book keeping experience, flexibility, ability to work as part of a team and time management skills.

We offer a competitive salary and great benefit. Please respond via email to jobs@fourcirclesrecovery.com, reference Office Administrator.

PART-TIME DONOR RELATIONS COORDINATOR Dogwood Alliance, a non-profit forest protection organization seeks a part-time (24 hrs/wk) Donor Relations Coordinator.

For more information go to www.dogwoodalliance.org

Salon/ Spa BUSY DOWNTOWN SALON • Adorn Salon seeks talented, creative stylist. Must have experience. Some clientele preferred. No phone calls please. Bring resume to: 58 College St., Asheville.

CHIC SALON IN DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE • On desirable Wall street. An exclusive bumble and bumble salon. Intimate group of creative, friendly stylist in supportive environment.

Competitive commission rates for stylist in high walk-in traffic location. Competitive booth rental rates with ideal flexibility.

Asheville’s only hair salon to offer davines color with unique cutting edge education. Please email info@eclipseasheville.com or call 828-285-0019 for more details and to set up an interview.

NEEDED: NAIL TECHNICIANS, ESTHETICIANS, MASSAGE THERAPISTS, AND FRONT DESK PROFESSIONALS International Spa Management Company that specializes in luxury, boutique resort and the exclusive day spa market are now looking to fill all positions.

Needed: Nail Technicians, Estheticians, Massage Therapists,and Front Desk Professionals. Fax Cover Letters and Resumes to: 828-277-3833 STYLIST Beautiful downtown salon seeking stylist with clientele. Personality and talent a must. Call 285-0065.

Aubergine Salon.

UPSCALE SALON • Seeking upbeat stylist with a passion for hair. If you are a Booth Rental Stylist looking for a salon home, look no further than Salon Halo Inc. To inquire please call 828 648-2224.

MOUNTAIN X JAMS! As a growing business that relies on the face put forward by our employees, Mountain Xpress Classifieds is where we turn to find them. The volume of highquality applicants replying to our ads can be hard to choose from, and it is always worth our investment. Thanks Mountain X! Rebecca and Charlie, owners, Tomato Jam Cafe.

Hotel/ Hospitality CONCIERGE/FRONT DESK Fulltime, day. Ability to deliver 5 Star service. • Prior hospitality experience required. • $15/hour. To apply in person call (828) 350-8000. The Residences at Biltmore Hotel.

HOUSEKEEPING Busy downtown B&B seeking meticulously detail-oriented person for housekeeping. Must have respectable appearance and ability to communicate with guests. Weekend position with possible 1-2 days during the week. Only those with good work ethics who can pass a background check and drug screening need apply.

Experience a plus. Email experience and contact info to ladonnapl@yahoo.com.

Medical/ Health Sales/ Marketing Care ATTENTION REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS Asheville 4 Seasons Realty, a local real estate company in West Asheville, is seeking Real Estate Professionals with a commitment to providing the utmost in customer service. • A perfect opportunity for those who have an established track record, and are looking for less red tape and more $$$ in their pocket. • We offer a very competitive compensation program, enabling you to have a better bottom line, in a relaxed atmosphere. • Call Susan or Suzanne, (828) 225-6911 to set up an appointment or email us: info@asheville4seasons.com Feel free to visit our website www.asheville4seasons.com SALES PROS • Time to get paid what you are worth AND have a life. Call 1-888-700-4916.

Restaurant/ Food COOK • PART-TIME For our Retreat Center events. Primarily simple vegetarian cuisine. Must have flexible schedule. $15/hour. Must be experienced, self-motivated, have reliable transportation and references. • Please visit our website for complete job description: http://www.centerformassage.c om/employment.html • Resume to director@centerformassage.co m or 530 Upper Flat Creek Road. Weaverville, NC 28787.

No calls please.

KITCHEN MANAGER AND CHEF EAGLE’S NEST CAMP AND OUTDOOR ACADEMY Established summer camp and small boarding high school program seeks creative, wholefoods kitchen manager in a year round position based in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. To apply: www.enf.org/employment

BILLING ASSISTANT Provide Administrative support to Medical Billing Department, good computer skills required, central Asheville location, fulltime position, $10-$13/hour.

Email resumes: jobs@ecpmd.com EQUINE AND CANINE MASSAGE THERAPY INSTRUCTORS Must have experience, knowledge of anatomy/physiology, techniques and business practices. $30/hour. • Please visit our website for complete job description: http://www.centerformassage.c om/employment.html • Resume with references to director@centerformassage.co m or 530 Upper Flat Creek Road, Weaverville, NC 28787.

No calls please.

LCAS OR PLCAS Seeking LCAS or PLCAS to provide 15 hrs/week at DSS in Transylvania County and run 3 Substance Abuse Groups per week for offenders. Please fax resume to Laura Z. 828-884-9753 ResCare HomeCare • is currently seeking Alternative Family Living (AFL) Providers in the Asheville area. If you have room in your heart and home to provide care and support for developmentally disabled individuals, apply in person: 40 North Merrimon Ave., Suite 309, Asheville, NC 28804. For more information, please call 828258-8881. Training, supervision and payment provided for the care you provide. Experience preferred.

Human Services

PROGRAM MANAGER • Four Circles Recovery Center, a wilderness substance abuse recovery program for young adults, is seeking a Program Manager to deliver clinical care MERIDIAN BEHAVIORAL

to clients in recovery, schedule

HEALTH Haywood, Jackson

and develop a variety of groups,

County: Clinician Sexual

including process, psycho-

Abuse Intervention Program

educational, 12-step and related

(SAIP) Must have Masters

programming, ropes course

degree and be licensed or

facilitation and family

license-eligible. Please contact

workshops. Requirements:

Diane Paige,

Master’s Degree in Human

diane.paige@meridianbhs.org

Services, Clinical Licensure,

Jackson, Swain, Macon

recovery knowledge, dual

County Clinician: Assertive

diagnosis experience, ability to

Community Treatment Team.

work as part of a team,

Must have master’s degree and

experience with family work,

be license eligible. Please

and experience with group

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF ASHEVILLE is seeking licensed therapists and QMHPs to provide mental health services to children, families and adults. Email csimpson@fpscorp.com

contact Kristy Whitaker,

facilitation; Desired: ropes

kristy.whitaker@

course facilitator experience

meridianbhs.org

and experiential education

QMHP Assertive Community

training. We offer a competitive

Treatment Team. Must have

salary, great benefits and

FULL TIME CLINICIAN NEEDED! Want to be a part of a team-oriented organization focused on helping children succeed? Eliada Homes, Inc. is seeking a full-time Licensed Clinician to provide individual, family, and group therapy to its students. Duties also include: providing clinical supervision and training for direct care staff; providing clinical on-call services; coordinating outpatient services with agency and community resources.

Qualifications: Must have a Master’s Degree in Social Work or other appropriate discipline.

While current NC licensure is preferred, will also consider individuals who are provisionally licensed. Must also be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check. Experience: Must have a minimum of three years experience in mental health services with children and adolescents. Prefer experience in community based and residential treatment. 30 hour position with benefits; requires evening work hours (typically Monday-Friday 1pm7pm). Please forward all resumes to: Email: eweaver@eliada.org Fax: 828-210-0361.

mental health degree and two

training. Please respond via

years of experience working

email to

with adults with mental illness.

jobs@fourcirclesrecovery.com,

Please contact Kristy Whitaker,

reference Program Manager.

FAMILIES TOGETHER FTI is a local mental health agency providing child, adult, and family centered services in WNC. FTI provides a positive work environment, flexible hours, room for advancement, health benefits, and an innovative culture. Go to www.familiestogether.net for employment opportunities.

QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT SPECIALIST • Are you a QP in North Carolina with experience working with adolescents? Do you enjoy working in direct care with students, feeling that your work truly makes a difference in the lives of children you work with?

Eliada Homes needs QPs to be a part of our Day Treatment program. There will be opportunities for teaching, doing group and one-on-one activities, some case management, and much more! This is a versatile position that offers many rich experiences with students. You will help plan and implement curriculum as well as use the Eliada Model to address various social and behavioral issues with students. Requirements: Must have a bachelor’s degree in human services with 2 years of experience in mental health post graduation, or a non human services degree with 4 years of post graduate experience. Must possess valid NCDL. This is an opportunity for a full-time benefitted position with an organization that truly cares for the families and students we serve! Please email resume to eweaver@eliada.org if you meet the requirements for this position.

kristy.whitaker@ meridianbhs.org RN Assertive Community Treatment Team: Must have four years of psychiatric nursing experience.

Please contact Kristy Whitaker, kristy.whitaker@ meridianbhs.org Cherokee, Clay, Graham County Therapist/Team Leader: Child and Family Services. Masters degree and license eligible. Please contact David Hutchinson at david.hutchinson@meridianbhs. org • For further information and to complete an application, visit our website: www.meridianbhs.org

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICE OF HENDERSONVILLE Offers Comprehensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Services to Include: • DWI Assessments and Classes • • Classes and individual services for Court Ordered Substance Abuse Treatment •

HOUSING SPECIALIST Qualified Professional needed to coordinate housing resources for an 8 county region supporting providers of MH/SA DD consumers. • Should be familiar with MH/SA/DD services in NC and a working knowledge of rules governing publicly funded housing services. Minimum BA/BS degree in human services plus 2 years professional experience working with MH/DD/SA Services-Housing. Salary range $31,802-$41,732, DOE plus excellent benefits including health and dental insurance, 3% 401-K, all state holidays, plus. Send NC State apprication: Western Highlands, HR,356 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801. EOE. To obtain an application, visit our website westernhighlands.org

WILDERNESS THERAPY PROGRAM • Field Staff: Following training, facilitate safety and implement treatment plan designed by group therapist for teens struggling with emotional and behavioral issues. Staff work week on/week off in the woods of North Georgia. • Qualifications: 21 plus, CPR and First Aid certified, experience with backpacking and adolescents, willingness to commit 8 months, WFR recommended. • Benefits: High compensation that increases with staff level, quality mentoring and training in wilderness therapy from a well respected program, full health and dental coverage. • Training: April 16-22 and May 14-20. • Contact: Andy or Tyson, Second Nature Blue Ridge. (706) 2122037. www.snwp.com

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF HENDERSONVILLE is seeking QMHPs to provide enhanced services for child and adult consumers. Applicants must have a Bachelors degree in the Human Services field and at least 2 years post-degree experience with the MH population.

FPS of Hendersonville office is also seeking LCSW or LPC (fully licensed or provisionally licensed) to provide therapy to children and their families.

Please email resumes to msouder@fpscorp.com

Professional/ Management EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FINANCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY • Responsible for providing Information Technology vision, leadership and advocacy for the development and use of Information Technology in support of the College’s mission, vision and goals.

Manages/directs the IT functions including the design, development, maintenance and support of ; 1) administrative systems and computing; 2) academic and research computing; 3) local and wide area network infrastructures; 4) telephony; 5) IT related procurement services; 6) IT related training and user support; 7) IT related security, standards, policies and procedures to fulfill generally accepted industry standards and meet audit requirements.

Provides leadership for the development and maintenance of a comprehensive Business Continuity Plan and Disaster Recovery Plan, and serves as Chair of the Technology Resources Advisory Committee.

Please visit www.abtech.edu/jobs/ for application and minimum and preferred requirements.

LEASING AGENT For busy property management office.

Must be dependable, personable, strong office and computer skills, intelligent and a team player with a Real Estate license and/or property management experience. Send resume to rentaljob@charter.net FINANCE TECHNICIAN General Statement of Duties: Performs a variety of responsible technical accounting functions in the Finance Office such as • Maintain Accounts Receivable invoicing and reconciliation • Process purchase invoices and updates in Accounts Payable • Serve as backup for weekly payroll processing • Update and maintain employee HR and program information.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: • Working knowledge of: • Accounting principles and practices • Database accounting software • Excel spreadsheet development and usage • Payroll processing • Laws, general statues, rules and regulations governing accounting tasks. • Ability to: • Communicate effectively in person and by telephone • Be tactful and courteous • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, supervisors, customers and the general public. • Work successfully in a collaborative team approach. • Perform a variety of fiscal and accounting functions and to change priorities quickly and maintain accuracy level.

Desirable Education and Experience • Graduation from a two year college with an Associates degree in accounting • Experience in an automated fiscal and accounting environment, preferably in the nonprofit or public sector • Must possess a valid NC driver’s license; pass drug screen and background checks. Full-time position. • Excellent Benefits.

Salary range: $15.78-$17/hour.

Send resume and cover letter with work references and phone numbers to: Human Resources Manager, 25 Gaston Street, Asheville NC, 28801. Selected applicants will be contacted for an interview. Open until filled.

EOE and DFWP.

FIRE SERVICES CONTINUING EDUCATION COORDINATOR • This position coordinates fire service continuing education training classes (con-ed) for firefighters in Buncombe and Madison Counties. Classes include: North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal certification and noncertification classes.

Responsible for: scheduling, grading, marketing, coordinating, instructor selection, and community relations. Knowledge of and compliance with: State Board of Community Colleges standards for con-ed; standards of The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and NC Department of Insurance Fire Training Division; College policies, procedures, and practices. Communicates with North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) regarding con-ed course information data. Performs other duties assigned by the department chair and associate dean; Coordinates college fire and rescue activities at the new Buncombe County Public Safety Training Center upon its completion. Please visit www.abtech.edu/jobs/ for application and minimum and preferred requirements.

OPEN YOUR HEART… OPEN YOUR HOME North Carolina MENTOR was established in 1993 to provide community-based care for at-risk youth in the state.

Today, North Carolina MENTOR serves hundreds of at-risk youth in Western North Carolina.

Services include: • Therapeutic foster care • Respite • Intake Assessments • Therapy • Other Services

NC Mentor is looking for foster parents in Western North Carolina. Be a hero in your community and open your home to a child in need. We provide training, 24 hour support, internal respite as needed and a generous stipend.

• Classes and individual services for anyone seeking treatment to help themselves and learn about addiction and recovery in a safe and supportive environment • We offer prompt assessment and enrollment in our program. Classes during the day or in the evening

Together we can make a difference in our community

For more information call: FPS at 828-697-4187 or Mark “Zim” Stewart at 828-582-9741

Hendersonville 828-696-2667

Please call Nicole at 828-696-2667 x 13

mountainx.com

PISGAH LEGAL SERVICES • Seeks p/t (20-30 hrs/wk) employee to help expand Mountain Area Volunteer Lawyer Program (MAVLP), made up of volunteer attorneys who assist low-income clients w/civil legal matters affecting basic needs.

Position involves making referrals to volunteer attorneys, recruitment, training, other aspects of administering MAVLP program. Prior exp working w/attorneys or law degree preferred. Salary DOE. Submit resume, cover letter by March 23, 2010 to: MAVLP Administrator Position, Pisgah Legal Services, P.O. Box 2276, Asheville, N.C. 28802 EOE. Racial minorities, women, seniors, people w/ disabilities encouraged to apply.

Employment Services MYSTERY SHOPPERS. Earn Up To $150 Per Day. Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail and Dining Establishments. No experience required. Call 1-877-463-7909.

(AAN CAN) UNDERCOVER SHOPPERS Get paid to shop. Retail and dining establishments need undercover clients to judge quality and customer service.

Earn up to $100/day. Please call 1-800-720-0576.

We are seeking motivated, outgoing and dynamic professionals to join our teams as Sales Photographers. As a Photographer, your outgoing personality and salesmanship will gain you access to a sales opportunity and a chance to learn a new trade in photography. While experience in digital photography is a plus, it is not mandatory. Customer Service or Retail Sales experience or aptitude is required. We provide the equipment and tools; you are in charge of your own success.

Interested applicants apply at www.sharpshooterimaging. com/employment Keyword Search Biltmore or 2010-1391.

• MARCH 17 - MARCH 23, 2010

75

Arts/Media REPORTER/EDITOR Are you connected to the WNC community? Do you have a passion for local news? Can you see the big picture and pay attention to the details, too? Xpress is looking for a reporter with editing skills.

Ideally, you’ll have multimedia, social-media and web experience. You’ll understand the new media environment and know how to lead citizen-journalism collaboration projects. You’ll be able to wear lots of hats, many at the same time.

You’ll have no problem working in a fast-paced environment and meeting deadlines. If you’re this sort of dynamic, skilled individual, please get in touch about joining our team. Send resume, links, multimedia samples etc. to journalist@ mountainx.com

Teaching/Education PRESCHOOL TEACHER - PARTTIME We are in need of an afternoon preschool assistant.

Ask to speak with Gayle Rayfield or leave message.

828-281-0505.

SUMMER DAY CAMP YOUTH MENTOR • $7.75-$8.50/hour.

Details online at www.ymcawnc.org SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY ADJUNCT • Part-time clinical instructor (Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays) summer semester. DUTIES: Supervise students in classroom, lab and clinical environments. Develop teaching materials, outlines, activities, and handouts for lab and clinical activities. Travel to various clinical sites is required.

Develop teaching materials and activities for assigned courses.

Provide supervision and instruction for both day and/or evening students as assigned.

Provide demonstration of and evaluate return demonstration of assigned surgical technology skills. Maintain professional certification and seek opportunities for professional development. Perform duties as assigned by Program Chair.

Please visit our website for application and complete details on minimum and preferred requirements. www.abtech.edu/jobs/

PENIS ENLARGEMENT. FDA Medical Vacuum Pumps. Gain 1-3 inches permanently.

Testosterone, Viagra, Cialis. Free Brochures. 619-294-7777 http://www.drjoelkaplan.com (discounts available) (AAN CAN)

YMCA OF WESTERN NC • Afterschool Program Opportunities $7.25 - $13/hour Please visit our web site for details: www.ymcawnc.org

Jobs Wanted

PREGNANT CONSIDERING ADOPTION? • Talk with caring agency specializing in matching birthmothers with families nationwide • Living expenses paid. Call 24/7 • Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions • 1-866413-6293. (AAN CAN)

ELDERLY HOME CARE By mature, compassionate, professional female. Good vehicle for shopping, errands, etc. • Asheville area.

Experienced. Live in possible. • Great references. 252-4198.

Business Opportunities ALL CASH VENDING! Be the boss of your own local route with 25 new machines and candy for $9,995. Call today 1800-920-9563. Multivend, LLC. BO#200003 (AAN CAN) BEST HOME-BASED BUSINESS EVER! It’s fun; it’s simple; it’s lucrative. To hear 3-minute message, call 1-866-257-3105, code 1.

BIZ OP • Want to purchase minerals and other oil/gas interest. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201

Classes & Workshops EVER WANTED TO LEARN HOW TO BLOW GLASS? Want to learn how to blow glass on a torch? Lampworking/torchwork, pyrex and soft glass. Individual and group instruction available.

Email for details ashevilleglassteacher@gmail.co m 828.713.6173 Learn Jewelry Making, Metal Smithing, Enameling Earthspeak Arts Spring classes for 2010 www.earthspeakarts.com

Holistics Announcements

Health & Fitness ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS in 111 alternative newspapers like this one. Over 6 million circulation every week for $1200. No adult ads. Call Mountain Xpress Classifieds at (828) 251-1333. (AAN CAN) DONATE YOUR CAR! Breast Cancer Research foundation!

Most highly rated breast cancer charity in America! Tax Deductible/Fast Free Pick Up. Call - 1-877-464-8203 (AAN CAN) Free Advice! We’ll help you choose a program or degree to get your career and your life on track. Call Collegebound Network Today! 1-877-8922542. (AAN CAN)

SPRING CLEANING YOUR BODY Detoxify for better health!

• Do you want: • More energy?

• Better digestion? • Clearer skin? • Less pain? • 4 week program of education, food tastings, nutritional supplements and group support. • Wednesdays in April, 6:30pm8:30pm, Asheville. • Class limited to 10 • Register by March 31. • Registration/information: Elizabeth Pavka, PhD, LD/N, Wholistic Nutritionist, (828) 2521406 or epavka@main.nc.us

Bodywork

FREE WEDDING EVENT AT SLEEPY HOLLOW Open House Saturday, April 10th 11:00-4:00.

Come meet the vendors of Sleepy Hollow Weddings. RSVP 828-298-1115 No Fees. Door Prizes!

**ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE MASSAGE!** Perfect pressure!

Caring, intuitive, professional therapist. Tranquil sanctuary just 3 blocks from Greenlife & downtown. Introductory Special for Locals: $35! Open Mon thru Sun. 9am to 8pm by appt. only.

Brett Rodgers LMBT #7557. www.vitalitymassage.net (828) 255-4785.

#1 AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY CONSCIOUS MASSAGE CENTER We’ve moved: • 1224 Hendersonville Road. Asheville. $29/hour. • 20 Wonderful Therapists to choose from.

Therapeutic Massage: • Deep Tissue • Swedish • Sports • Trigger Point. Also offering: • Acupressure • Energy Work • Reflexology. • Save money, call now! 505-7088. www.thecosmicgroove.com CARING STRONG HANDS Will relax and rejuvenate you! Kern Stafford, NC LMBT#1358 • (828) 301-8555 • www.avlmassage.com MASSAGE FOR EVERY BODY • Relaxing and therapeutic. Great rates. M/C and Visa accepted.

Convenient Asheville location, free parking. Patty O’Sullivan.

LMT #7113. 828-275-5497.

MASSAGE/MLD Therapeutic Massage. Manual Lymph Drainage. Lymphedema Treatment. $45/hour or sliding scale for financial hardship. 17+ years experience. 828-2544110. NC License #146. www.uhealth.net 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. 299-0999. www.shojiretreats.com

Spiritual 2010 • YOUR FUTURE CAN BE BRIGHT! Ask Nina: (828) 2537472 or email: asknina@excite.com TAROT Answers your life’s essential questions or you don’t pay me. Lil’lei, 828-275-4931.

Natural Alternatives 100% NATURAL SHEA BUTTER From Africa. • Protect your skin from wind/cold/sun! • Natural Soaps • Teas • Downtown Asheville, 7 1/2 Biltmore Avenue. (828) 258-3742.

Southern Expressions

Acoustic Music Room Recording Studio & Video Production

Mixing & Mastering

Musical Services ASHEVILLE’S WHITEWATER RECORDING Full service studio services since 1987. • Mastering • Mixing and Recording. • CD/DVD duplication at the best prices.

(828) 684-8284 • whitewaterrecording.com AUDIO/CD MASTERING Crane Song, Manley, API, and more. • Unrivaled in WNC/Upstate.

Experienced and professional.

Call (828) 442-6211 or (828) 724-1500. www.blantonemusic.com PIANO-GUITAR-DRUMS-BASSMANDOLIN-BANJO-SINGING Learn what you/your child wants to learn. Knowledgeable, flexible, enthusiastic instructor.

828-242-5032.

Pet Xchange

Lost Pets A LOST OR FOUND PET? Free service. If you have lost or found a pet in WNC, post your listing here: www.lostpetswnc.org Brevard Area: Lost Sunday, February 14. Pit Bull Terrier, black/brindle male, white on face/chest, no collar, 70 lbs.

Very sweet, friendly. • Recent surgery to area around his eyes.

Please call: 329-5424.

LOST YOUR PET? FOUND A PET? Call Asheville Humane Society, (828) 253-6807, to fill out a missing or found pet report. Visit 72 Lee’s Creek Road, Asheville. www.ashevillehumane.org

Pets for Adoption CAN I LIVE WITH YOU? Max is a Shepherd mix who is searching for a loving home. For more information on the adoption process, or call (828) 505-3440 or visit www.bwar.org

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please go to www.mountainx.com for additional listings.

GEORGIA ON MY MIND Georgia is a mixed breed puppy who is searching for a loving home. For more information on the adoption process, call (828) 505-3440 or visit www.bwar.org

Established guitar player/singer, Looking to form duet for fun and gigs. If you play an instrument it helps, but not absolute. I can teach you. I play a lot of country folk. Some Jazz.

423-8305.

ECLECTIC GUITARIST/SINGER/SONGWRI TER SEEKS LIKE MINDED PLAYERS Percussion, bass, guitar, keyboards needed for upcoming gigs and recording projects; eclectic blues-based folk rock. Contact Dawn @ 828301-3745.

Pet Services ASHEVILLE PET SITTERS Dependable, loving care while you’re away. Reasonable rates.

Call Sandy Ochsenreiter, (828) 215-7232.

MATTRESSES Pillow-top: queen $250, king $350 • Extra firm: queen $175, king $275 • Full: $150 • Twin: $99. New, in plastic. 828-277-2500.

Autos

Medical Supplies

2006 SUZUKI FORENZA WAGON • 46,300 miles. 32 mpg. Factory warranty, one owner, highway miles, front wheel drive (great in snow) 5 speed manual trans, great cargo space, ac, cd, power windows and mirrors. Black with gray interior. $6,300 obo. Ken 828215-3078.

2003 TOYOTA TACOMA $8600 OBO 138,000mi, well cared for, well loved truck. red, standard cab, manual transmission, topper, good higway mileage. great truck!! call Collier 434-426-4317

Motorcycles/ Scooters

DELUXE MASSAGE TABLE Very high quality. Extra options. Like new. Paid over $700, asking $375. Call (828) 215-6744.

Sales

Yard Sales Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please go to www.mountainx.com for additional listings.

Auctions GREAT DEAL! Touring RS FLHXI Street Glide, 96 Cubic Inch, VTwin, six speed, Asking $4800, contact: ssa80ens@msn.com/ 336-464-2137.

HUGE CHURCH AUCTION

MOBILE MOTORCYCLE REPAIR Spring service specials! I’ll come to you. Fast • Reasonable • Convenient. Motorcycles and Scooters. Call Josh (828) 5825921.

7pm. • Regular Auction

Automotive Services WE’LL FIX IT AUTOMOTIVE • Honda and Acura repair. Half price repair and service. ASE and factory certified. Located in the Weaverville area. Please call 828-275-6063 for appointment.

MR. BOJANGLES Is an orange tabby cat who is searching for a loving home. For more information on the adoption process, call (828) 505-3440 or visit www.bwar.org

Furniture

Vehicles For Sale

FIND THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE! Cats, dogs, & other small animals available for adoption at Asheville Humane Society • 72 Lee’s Creek Road • Asheville, NC • (828) 253-6807 www.ashevillehumane.org

Musicians’ Bulletin BASS AND DRUMS NEEDED For Haywood county based original rock band. Call Jonathan: (828) 452-9180.

PET SITTING • I will pet sit your small dog or cat in my home in exchange for your tax deductible contribution to Friends of Pritchard Park. Please contact: mrsmawest@yahoo.com or 828 242-5456.

For Sale

Friday, March 19. Free to public.

• Silent Auction and Concert

8:30pm. Unity Center in Mills River, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road. 684-3798 or 891-8700 For an up-to-date item list, visit unitync.net/Auction.html

Adult Services

A MAN’S DESIRE 4 hands are better than 2! • Call us about

Computers

our 4 hand special! • Open

GET 2 COMPUTERS FOR PRICE OF ONE! Bad/Credit? NO PROBLEM! Starting at $29.99/week. Up to $3000 credit limit Guaranteed Approval! Call Now! 888-8602420 (AAN CAN)

Monday-Saturday, 9am-9pm •

NEW DELL-HP COMPUTER GUARANTEED Bad Credit? No Problem! FREE Printer Digital Cam & LCD TV Starting at $29.99/week. Up to $3000 credit limit. Call Now-888-8602419 (AAN CAN)

(828) 989-7353.

Incall/outcall. • Now Hiring Attractive, pleasant ladies.

(Lic#08-00020912). Call

A WOMAN’S TOUCH “We’re all about you!” Keep warm with our “Winter Special”! • Call 275-

Building Supplies

Music & Event HD Video Services

STEEL BUILDINGS • Factory Deals - Save Thousands.

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The New York Times Crossword Edited by Will Shortz No. 0210 Across 1 Tassled topper

43 Plastic ___ Band 44 Hits with a beam,

68 Some blood bank technicians

as to remove a tat- 69 Some ooze too 10 Martial arts school Down 45 Sauna feature 14 Fire truck item 1 Palestinian group 15 Nowheresville 48 The good son 2 Napoleon’s pun16 One for the 50 [Read no further] ishment money?

55 Spotted cat 3 Mrs. F. Scott 17 Up to, for short Fitzgerald 58 Place that might 18 Next up feature a sauna 4 Coppertone rating: Abbr.

20 Alan who played 59 “ER” actor La TV’s Hawkeye 5 Murder method in Salle Christie’s “A 22 Host’s request 60 Billets-doux … or Pocket Full of Rye” 18-, 24-, 37- and 23 Not yet hard 6 Aimless 50-Across all 24 What a compas7 Oxidizes together? sionless person 8 Head doctor, for 63 Animal whose has short? name has a silent 9 Scan 27 Ibsen’s “Peer ___” initial 10 Not as bright 28 C, say 64 Mass conclusion 11 Taking care of 32 Theatrical faint 65 Bolstered, with business 35 Somme one “up” 12 It’s “bustin’ out all 36 Bummed out 66 Six-Day War over,” in song 37 Balance point weapon 13 1976 Gregory 42 Be indisposed 67 Lock name Peck film, with “The” ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE 19 Zero B A T E S E N O S C A R B 21 Specialized vocabulary O Z A R K L O V E A L O U 25 Daly of “Judging B U G G Y I D E E G I S T Amy” B R U S H Y O U R T E E T H 26 Little bite Y E P O A T H H W Y 29 Seller’s caveat A O L D R E B E A 30 Concert promoter’s figure P I C K U P Y O U R T O Y S C O L T O A R R A C K 31 Ice cream brand 32 Whole lot D O Y O U R H O M E W O R K 33 Small dam S P A S E L D I N I N Q J A Y Z A I R 34 No more than B E C A U S E I S A I D S O 35 Subj. of a certain conspiracy theory W E R E I T A L R O W E L 38 Motor Trend job H A I R T Y N E D W A R F 39 Aware of Y U K S E X E D S A R E E 4 Alley pickups

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Puzzle by Ed Sessa

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46 Curtis of cosmetics 47 Organic compound 48 French physicist André 49 ___ of bad news

53 Chichi shopping area in Tokyo

56 Result of a big hit, maybe 57 Robbie’s daredevil dad

54 Fit out

61 Lord’s Prayer adjective

55 Brand of facial moisturizer

62 Grp. behind some ’60s strikes

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