Mountain Xpress, December 14 2011

OUR 18TH YEAR OF WEEKLY INDEPENDENT NEWS, ARTS & EVENTS FOR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA VOL. 18 NO. 21 DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2011

Commissioners give final approval for A-B Tech sales tax p. 10

Elf-centered: Santaland Diaries turns ten at ACT p. 54

Chatham County Line brings the bluegrass holiday blowout p. 57

p. 34

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DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

EBT

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011

thisweek on the cover

p.

Someone’s gotta give ‘Tis the season when our thoughts turn to giving. We clean out closets and donate blankets and coats. We gather canned goods to feed the hungry. We donate a toy and get a free piercing (this is Asheville, after all). To help things along, Xpress offers a sampling of do-good opportunities. But look around. The need is year-round, and the chance to help is right around the corner.

Cover design by Kathy Wadham Photograph by Max Cooper

news 0 BunCoMBE CoMMiSSionERS: BuilDing MoMEntuM

County formally approves quarter-cent sales tax for A-B Tech projects

aShEvillE City CounCil: in with thE nEw ...

Newly elected Jim Hunt and Chris Pelly sworn in; Newman says farewell

food 6 lEt it gRow

Asheville FRESH provides home-grown herbs and job opportunities

arts&entertainment 5 Elf-CEntERED

It’s the 10th anniversary of The Santaland Diaries at ACT

57 ElECtRiC wonDERlanD Bluegrass aces Chatham County Line plug in for a holiday blowout

58 SpREaD thE woRD that it’S funk that you hEaRD Free Flow Band gets people dancing

features 5 7 8

9 0

5 0

60 6 6 67 7 75 79

lEttERS CaRtoon: Molton CaRtoon: BREnt BRown CoMMunity CalEnDaR fREEwill aStRology ConSCiouS paRty Benefits nEwS of thE wEiRD Back next week aShEvillE DiSClaiMER EDgy MaMa Parenting from the edge wEllnESS Back next week SMall BitES Local food news Eatin’ in SEaSon What’s fresh aRt BEtS Visual art around town pRofilER Which shows to see SMaRt BEtS What to do, who to see CluBlanD CRanky hankE Movie reviews ClaSSifiEDS ny tiMES CRoSSwoRD

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letters Remembering Paul Thorpe I am writing to share my sadness over the recent death of Asheville business owner, teacher and friend, Paul Thorpe. Paul died completely unexpectedly on Saturday, Dec. 3, while working in his yard in Montford. He was 45 years old.

Paul owned the Asheville Music School, and began teaching my son piano three years ago after we first moved to Asheville. My son can be challenging, full of questions and energy, but Paul was always patient, full of good humor and immensely creative in his teaching. His love of music was contagious. Already my 9-year-old understands music in ways I never did, even after I took lessons for many years.

As an Asheville parent, business owner and neighbor, I am heartbroken by the loss of Paul.

He was just beginning to take his business in new directions, to build new relationships and connections with other downtown businesses. I am especially sad that I didn’t take time to know Paul better. We felt like we had time for that, you know?

I hope that many will come forward and share stories of Paul so we can all get to know him better. And I hope, too, that we are all reminded of how precious each moment is with our family, friends and loved ones. I know I am.

To add your remembrances, visit http://avl.mx/7v.

— Elizabeth Schell Asheville

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correction In the Dec. 7 Xpress story, “They’ve Got the Golden Ticket,” we reported that the French Broad Chocolate Lounge will receive grant money to install solar equipment on the roof of the new factory they are building.

The grant money will be used to outfit the existing FBCL with solar equipment, not the upcoming factory.

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Asheville pedestrians deserve better Now that we have had a pedestrian fatality on Broadway, I ask City Council to take this request for a pedestrian crosswalk(s) between I-240 and Chestnut Street seriously.

This stretch of Broadway is about 1/3 of a mile where pedestrians have no means of crossing the four lanes of Broadway safely.

— Stephen Sachs Asheville

Xpress Scrooged a few facts Thanks for the beautiful cover photo and the article about Montford Park Players’ production of A Christmas Carol [“An Old Tale with a Heightened Malevolence,” Dec. 7 Xpress]. I wish to

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staff PuBLIShER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes hhh GENERAL MANAGER: Andy Sutcliffe SENIOR EDITOR: Peter Gregutt hhh MANAGING EDITORS: Rebecca Sulock, Margaret Williams A&E REPORTER & FAShION EDITOR: Alli Marshall h SENIOR NEWS REPORTER: David Forbes FOOD WRITER: Mackensy Lunsford STAFF REPORTER: Jake Frankel GREEN SCENE REPORTER: Susan Andrew EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, SuPPLEMENT COORDINATOR & WRITER: Jaye Bartell CONTRIBuTING EDITORS: Nelda holder, Tracy Rose CALENDAR EDITOR, WRITER: Jen Nathan Orris CLuBLAND EDITOR, WRITER: Dane Smith CONTRIBuTING WRITERS: Miles Britton, Melanie McGee Bianchi, Caitlin Byrd, Max Cooper, Megan Dombroski, Anne Fitten Glenn, ursula Gullow, Bill Rhodes, Kyle Sherard, Justin Souther CONTRIBuTING ARTS EDITOR: ursula Gullow EDITORIAL INTERNS: Tess Kuulei Satsuma PRODuCTION & DESIGN MANAGER: Carrie Lare ADVERTISING PRODuCTION MANAGER: Kathy Wadham hh PRODuCTION & DESIGN: Emily Busey, Nathanael Roney

MOVIE REVIEWER & COORDINATOR: Ken hanke hh ADVERTISING MANAGER: Marissa Williams h ADVERTISING SuPPLEMENTS MANAGER: Russ Keith h RETAIL REPRESENTATIVES: Rick Goldstein, Leigh Reynolds, Bryant Cooper, John Varner h, Zane Wood CLASSIFIED REPRESENTATIVES: Arenda Manning, Tim Navaille hh INFORMATION TEChNOLOGIES MANAGER: Stefan Colosimo WEBMASTER: Patrick Conant WEB EDITOR: Steve Shanafelt WEB GRAPhIC DESIGNER: Jesse Michel MuLTIMEDIA COORDINATOR: David Shaw WEB MARKETING MANAGER: Marissa Williams OFFICE MANAGER & BOOKKEEPER: Patty Levesque hhh ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER: Lisa Watters hh ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT: Arenda Manning DISTRIBuTION MANAGER: Jeff Tallman ASSISTANT DISTRIBuTION MANAGER: Denise Montgomery 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 h = Five years of continuous employment

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DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

For other Molton cartoons, check out our Web page at www.mountainx.com/cartoons advise you of an error in the text.

Please note that Paul G. Clarke has never played the role of Scrooge in any of MPP’s productions of Carol that I know of. Beginning in 2002, I performed this role for the following nine seasons. This year I was cast as the ghost of Jacob Marley, a role that has always appealed to me. Interestingly enough, it was Peter Brezny who played Marley to my debut as Scrooge in 2002. Peter has played one part or another in Carol for about 30 of the 35 years that the company has produced this show. (Also, note that Paul Clarke is, indeed, portraying Bob Cratchit in this production.)

— Mike Vaniman (aka Jacob Marley) Asheville

Web of confuson I find mountainx.com confusing, with its colors/words/ items everywhere. For some of us, less is more and clarity and simplicity rule the day.

The page is cluttered with topics and colors. For young and old with ADD/ADHD or with vision-perceptual difficulties such as figure-ground issues or spatial relationships, finding a topic would be almost impossible. While I have none of those concerns, I find Web pages with simple, clean, informative links are most helpful. Another case of less is more!

— Sandra Kremer Hendersonville Xpress Web manager responds: One of the challenges with our website is displaying the massive amount of content we produce and aggregate in a way that is easy for our readers to consume.

We have a number of enhancements planned for 2012 that address your concerns.

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cartoon by Brent Brown

Make memories, not landfills.

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news Building momentum

In wake of referendum, commissioners levy tax increase for A-B Tech projects

LOVE 258-9264 • www.rmcs.org

Dec. 6 meeting aBoard supports conservation easements aCamp House designated local historic landmark

by Jake frankel After nearly a year of contentious debate on the issue, the Buncombe County commissioners unanimously voted Dec. 6 to levy a quarter-cent sales-tax increase. Narrowly approved by voters last month, the increase is earmarked for capital improvements at A-B Tech.

During the run up to the Nov. 8 referendum, supporters said the revenue would help the community college serve a rapidly rising enrollment and provide much-needed job training. Critics said the tax would hurt an already weak economy, taking money out of people’s pockets precisely when they need it most.

Voters endorsed the measure by a mere 503 votes out of the more than 32,000 cast.

During the Dec. 6 meeting, A-B Tech President Hank dunn thanked the commissioners for their support.

0 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

One more year: In addition to raising the sales-tax, commissioners appointed Bill Stanley to another one-year term as vice chair. He announced he would retire in 2012 after completing his 24th year on the board. Photo by Margaret Hester.

“I appreciate the fact that you allowed us to come before the voters and put this on the ballot,” said Dunn. “I know that came at great personal risk and great pressure from the electorate out there. But as statesmen often do, you did what needed to be done, not what was politically expedient.”

Voters approved it, he maintained, because “I think they see us as an institution dedicated to helping the county, to changing students’ lives, and to working to help small-, mediumand big-sized businesses grow their bottom lines. We’re here in difficult economic times to help grow the economy in any way we can.

“Upon your approval of this resolution this afternoon,” continued Dunn, “it will be a transformational effort for A-B Tech.”

At the urging of board Chair david Gantt, County Attorney Michael Frue detailed the resolution’s legalities and financial details.

Alluding to critics who’d asserted before the vote that the money might not, in fact, be

spent on A-B Tech, Frue said: “The statute that governs this process is short and sweet, but we know that this process, as it’s unfolded, has been anything but.”

To pay for the improvements, he explained, the county will issue certificates of participation that will gradually be paid off by the tax revenues. And the resolution’s wording, he continued, stipulates that no other source of income (such as property-tax revenues) can be used to pay off the certificates. If a future Board of Commissioners tried to do so or defaulted on the debt, asserted Frue, it “would wreck our bond rating and credit, which is currently at the highest rating.”

County Finance Director donna Clark concurred, saying the state treasurer could force the county to pay the debt once the certificates are issued.

Before making a motion to approve the resolution, Vice Chair Bill stanley read a portion of it aloud.

“I think [voters] see us as an institution dedicated to changing students’ lives and to helping small-, mediumand big-sized businesses grow their bottom lines.”

— A-B Tech PresidenT hAnk dunn

“Contrary to some beliefs,” noted Stanley, “the board ‘expressed its intent that this sales-and-use tax sunset in 2029 and be used exclusively for the stated capital-improvement needs of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.’ Period.”

Effective April 1, the sales tax on most purchases in the county will rise from 6.75 percent to 7 percent, generating a projected $6 million to $7 million a year. In the next eight to 10 months, said Dunn, the school plans to break ground on two major capital projects: a $55 million Allied Health and Workforce Development Building and a $5 million facility housing programs for law-enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency-management workers.

Members of the public weren’t given a chance to speak before the vote. But later, during the general public-comment period, Leicester resident Peggy Bennett urged the school and county officials to hire local contractors and construction workers whenever possible. Fairview resident Mike Fryar went further. Citing the referendum’s close results, the Republican candidate for commissioner urged the board to upend the measure, asserting, “This needs to be reversed.”

Other business In other action, the board: • Unanimously voted to accept the annual financial report for the fiscal year that ended June 30. Staff emphasized that the county has a AAA credit rating and the highest possible bond rating.

• Unanimously agreed to cover $41,000 in transaction costs for conservation easements that will preserve 120 acres in Upper Hominy and 35.5 acres in Sandy Mush.

• Unanimously reappointed Stanley as the board’s vice chair, his fourth one-year term. The position is largely symbolic, but the vice chair runs the meetings when the board chair is absent. After 23 years as a Buncombe County commissioner, Stanley recently said he’ll retire when his term expires next year (see sidebar, “Stepping Down”).

• Denied a request to rezone an 8.58 acre parcel at 101 Farida Drive in Weaverville that would have allowed for more development. The Planning Board had recommended denying the request, saying it wasn’t consistent with the county’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Stanley cast the lone vote to grant the request.

• Unanimously approved designating the William Nelson Camp Jr. House at 92 Flat Top Mountain Road in Fairview as a local historic landmark.

• Unanimously approved a resolution urging the U.S. Postal Service to continue operating the Brevard Road mail-processing facility and maintain its current level of service. The Postal Service is considering closing the facility and scaling back first-class mail service as part of a nationwide cost-cutting initiative. X Jake Frankel can be reached at 251-1333, ext. 115, or jfrankel@ mountainx.com.

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Longtime Buncombe County commissioner Bill Stanley says he’ll retire from public office when his term ends next year.

“We’ve had a good run: 23 years of wonderful stuff,” he notes, “But that’s probably long enough.”

The 82-year-old Stanley says the two things he’s most proud of are helping the county transition to a manager form of government and helping improve the school system.

When he was first elected in 1988, Stanley explains, “The chairman was the county manager — and, of course, that made everything political. When we went to the county manager form of government, that took the employees out of the political picture. It gave us better employees with better standing.”

Meanwhile, the former high-school principal continues, “Our schools were in ridiculously bad shape. They were like the third or fourth worst in the country. We built 26 or 27 new schools. And we’ve got two more opening in the coming months.”

Earlier this year, the N.C. General Assembly switched Buncombe County from at-large to district elections. Several commissioners branded it a blatantly partisan maneuver to get more Republicans on the board. But Stanley, a moderate Democrat, wound up in the 114th District, which includes most of Asheville and its largely Democratic voters. Some speculated this could make him vulnerable to a more left-leaning challenger. After winning six straight elections, however, Stanley says the switch did not affect his decision.

“That didn’t have anything to do with it — nothing at all. I was just tired,” he maintains.

Stanley also shrugs off the outpouring of criticism earlier this year when he defended the commissioners’ salaries (which, including technology and travel stipends, ranked among the highest in the state).

“I’ve been fussed at more than that over the years,” he says, laughing. “You try to site a landfill: That’s when you get them to fuss.”

The decision, says Stanley, wasn’t sudden: “I’ve thought about this after the last two times I’ve run. I wasn’t really happy with some of the other candidates, so I just kept on running.”

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Stanley first revealed his plans at a Dec. 3 meeting of the Democratic Men’s Club. Two days later, departing Asheville City Council member Brownie Newman announced his intention to run for the Board of Commissioners in Stanley’s district.

Commissioner (and former Council member) Holly Jones also lives in the 114th. Under the new rules, voters can choose two commissioners from each district, and Newman said he has Jones’ support (both are Democrats).

Stanley says he’s holding off on endorsing a successor, at least until he meets with Newman. “Brownie’s got some good ideas and some good experience, and he’s young. And that may be what we need,” muses Stanley. “I don’t know. … Brownie’s done a good job on City Council.”

After stepping down, says Stanley, “My wife and I want to travel a little bit. … I’ve been [a commissioner] a long time, and we missed out on a couple of things because of it, so we’re going to catch up.”

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Changing of the guard New Council members sworn in

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Dec. 6 meeting aManheimer named vice mayor aDavis back for third term

by David Forbes The Asheville City Council chamber was packed, and many heads bowed as the Rev. Mark Ward of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Asheville contemplated the state of the city.

“For all the natural beauty of this place, the strength and resourcefullness of its people, there are worrisome pressures in play that can diminish this city and divide its people from one another,” said Ward. “Job losses and economic disparity are squeezing us. Intolerance tears at our city life. Continuing damage to our environment threatens us all.”

In electing Council members, he continued, “We are not seeking saviors who will make everything right, or those who will tell us what they think we want to hear. We are seeking people who will bring watchful eyes, keen ears and compassionate hearts to the affairs of this city.”

Ward sounded a warning note in an otherwise festive occasion, as City Council met Dec. 6 to swear in new members Marc Hunt and Chris Pelly, welcome back Jan Davis for a third term, and bid farewell to Vice Mayor Brownie Newman and Council member Bill Russell.

Mayor Terry Bellamy honored Newman and Russell with plaques, gifts and a proclamation, calling the vice mayor a consensus builder on

12 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Moving on: Outgoing Vice Mayor Brownie Newman reminisced about his eight years on Asheville City Council and praised the newcomers, sworn in on Dec. 6.

Newman will run for a Buncombe County Board of Commissioners seat in 2012.

Photo by Bill Rhodes. difficult issues and commending Russell for his “commitment to Asheville’s financial stability.”

Newman said serving on Council has been the greatest honor of his life. He praised city staff and called his fellow Council members “a good-looking group.”

The day before, Newman had announced plans to seek a seat on the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners next year (see sidebar, “Not So Fast”).

Russell, meanwhile, said: “I love this town; I’ll be here until the day I die. I just hope we can stay a great town where our children have an opportunity to live and work in the wonderful community that we have.”

Women warriors

The vice mayor fills in when the mayor is absent, which may happen more frequently with Bellamy running for Congress in the 10th District.

“I don’t think this city has ever had a female mayor and vice mayor at the same time,” noted Bellamy, adding, “I think we just made history.”

In fact, however, Holly Jones (now a Buncombe County commissioner) served as vice mayor from 2005-07, during Bellamy’s first term.

“I’m honored that my colleagues have elected me to this position, and I plan to serve with vigor and live up to their expectations,” said Manheimer.

Davis, who edged out Lael Gray by 35 votes to retain his seat, thanked the public for entrusting him with another term.

In brief remarks, Hunt said “I’ve already learned so much” during the campaign, adding that “This session of Council will probably be the most positive and supportive one I’ll ever experience.”

For his part, Pelly thanked his supporters and campaign manager, noting his newfound appreciation for city staff. “I look forward to going to work on behalf of the citizens of Asheville.” X

Council then turned to naming a new vice mayor.

“It’s with a great deal of enthusiasm that I’d like to place a nomination for Esther Manheimer,” said Davis, who himself served as vice mayor from 2007-09. Council member Gordon Smith seconded the motion, telling Manheimer, “You’ve demonstrated a lot of leadership, you run some tight meetings, and you have been able to really reach across all the David Forbes can be reached at 251-1333, ext. 137, lines that can appear in our city.” or at dforbes@mountainx.com.

“We are not seeking saviors who will make everything right, or those who will tell us what they think we want to hear.”

— the Rev. MaRk WaRd on City CounCil Candidates

NOT SO FAST Turns out Brownie Newman isn’t bowing out of politics. The two-term City Council member’s last day in office was Dec. 6, but he’s already announced a run for the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners.

“As a member of Asheville City Council, I tried to set ambitious, achievable goals for our community,” Newman said Dec. 5. “I am proud that we have established Asheville as a leader for energy independence and green jobs, promoted the growth of locally owned businesses and made it clear that we are an inclusive community that supports equal rights for all our citizens.”

Thanks to a switch to district elections imposed by the state Legislature, Newman will seek one of two seats in the 114th District, which includes most of Asheville. And with longtime Commissioner Bill Stanley stepping down in the coming year, Newman said he’s looking forward to running alongside Commissioner (and former Council member) Holly Jones in 2012.

The announcement also quoted Jones, as follows: “I am excited that Brownie is running for [the Board of Commissioners]. He has contributed a lot to the City Council over the past eight years, and he will be an effective member of the commission.”

Newman says he hadn’t yet set his sights on the Board of Commissioners when he declined to seek another term on Council.

“I thought a lot about this,” he explains. “I looked at the issues I cared about and felt I could do even more good at the county level.” He also looks forward to running alongside Jones and working with her to advance their shared goals, noting, “Holly and I had a really good working relationship on Council.”

Newman plans to hold a campaign kickoff event in January.

— David Forbes and Jake Frankel

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calendar

your guide to community events, classes, concerts & galleries

calendar categories community events & workshops / social & shared-interest groups / government & politics / seniors & retirees / animals / technology / business & careers / volunteering / health programs / support groups / helplines / sports groups & activities / kids / spirituality / arts / spoken & written word / festivals & gatherings / music / theater / comedy / film / dance / auditions & call to artists calEndaR FoR dEcEmbER 14 - 22, 2011 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

Animals Brother Wolf Animal Rescue A no-kill organization. Info: www.bwar.org or 5053440.

• DAILY, 8am-8pm - Pet Adoption Day at the rescue center, 31 Glendale Ave. Open from 8am-6pm on Sundays.

Community Partnership for Pets This nonprofit’s primary goal is to provide affordable spay/neuter services to communities in/around Henderson County. Info: www.communitypartnershipforpets.org or 6935172.

• 4th SATURDAYS, 10am-2pm - Vouchers for free and low-cost spay/neuter services will be available to Henderson County residents at Tractor Supply Company, 115 Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville.

Dog Agility Trials • FR (12/16) through SU (12/18), 8am-3pm - The Blue Ridge Agility Club of Western North Carolina will host a dog agility trial

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.

at the WNC Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher.

More than 200 dogs will compete. Info: www. blueridgeagility.com or 697-2118.

Pet Biggest Loser Contest • Through SU (5/20) - All Pets Animal Hospital and Rehabilitation Center will hold a Pet Biggest Loser Contest to promote a healthy lifestyle in pets.

Info: 645-5252.

Art aRt The Painting Experience with Stewart Cubley (pd.) Experience the power of process painting as described in the groundbreaking book Life, Paint & Passion: Reclaiming the Magic of Spontaneous Expression. January 20-22 near Washington, DC and January 27-29 in Chapel Hill. (888) 639-8569. www.processarts.com 16 Patton Located at 16 Patton Ave. Gallery hours: Tues.-Sat., 11am-6pm and Sun., 15pm. Info: www.16patton. com or 236-2889.

• Through SA (1/7) - Intersections, works

by Signe and Genna Grushovenko, and Seasons on the French Broad, works by Linda Cheek.

All Member Art Show • Through FR (1/6) - The All Member Art Show will be held at Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville.

Info: www.artleague.net or 692-2078.

American Folk Art and Framing The gallery at 64 Biltmore Ave. is open daily, representing contemporary selftaught artists and regional pottery. Info: www.amerifolk.com or 281-2134.

• Through SA (12/31) Virgins, Saints and Angels.

12 painters, wood carvers and potters will share their interpretation of the virgins, saints and angels for the holidays.

• WE (12/14) - Handmade in the South, “featuring hand-made beauties in the spirit of the season.”

AnTHM Gallery Located at 110.5 W. State St. in downtown Black Mountain. Info: www.anthmgallery.com.

• Through TU (1/31) - Resurrection, works

by Amy Greenan, and Abstracts and Writings, works by Lou Majors.

Appalachian State University • Through SU (1/1) - Living in the Light: A Retrospective, works by the late John Scarlata, and Sanctuary, works by Val Lyle, will be on display in the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts. stageme@ appstate.edu or 262-6084.

Art at UNCA Art exhibits and events at the university are free, unless otherwise noted.

Info: www.unca.edu.

• Through TU (12/20) - Reflections on Lunations, a visual metaphor of the lunar phases. Works by Rebecca vonSeldeneckHouser.

• Through FR (12/16) - Body Curious, works

by Sarah Ashley Reeves, will be on display in the Ramsey Library. Info: art. unca.edu or 251-6559.

Art Events at WCU Held at the Fine Art Museum, Fine & Performing Arts Center on the campus of Western Carolina University. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10am-4pm & Thurs. 10am-7pm. Free, but donations welcome.

Info: www.fineartmuseum. wcu.edu or 227-3591.

• Through FR (12/16) - Vitreographs, highlights from the Fine Art Museum’s archives, and P(art) of the Whole: Selections from the collection of Rob and Leigh Anne Young.

Asheville Art Museum Located on Pack Square in downtown Asheville.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am5pm and Sun., 1-5pm.

Admission: $8/$7 students and seniors/Free for kids under 4. Free first Wednesdays from 3-5pm.

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

• FR (12/16), noon-1pm Lunchtime Art Break: The New Materiality will feature

14 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

weeklypicks

* events are free unless otherwise noted.

Learn about one of the world’s oldest forms of meditation as the West Asheville Library, 942

wed Haywood Road, hosts a documentary screening and Q&A session about Vipassana on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. Info: patapa.dhamma.org.

Indulge your dark side as Pisgah Brewing Company and the French Broad Chocolate Lounge

thur present a chocolate and beer pairing at 10 S. Lexington Ave. on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 6

p.m. $6 includes one pint and two truffles, along with live music by multi-instrumentalist Ben Hovey. Info: frenchbroadchocolates.com or pisgahbrewing.com.

fri

Celebrate the season with melody and harmony as local schools and churches perform holiday music at Hendersonville’s Historic Courthouse on Main Street on Friday, Dec. 16 from 1-5 p.m. Performances continue through Saturday. Info: 233-3216.

sat

Join Red Herring Puppets for a European take on Christmas as the troupe performs La Befana, an Italian holiday folk tale, at White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Road, on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. Performances continue through Sunday. $8. Info: whitehorseblackmountain.com.

sun

See more than 200 canines compete in dog agility trials on Sunday, Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the WNC Agricultural Center, 1301 Fanning Bridge Road in Fletcher. Trials begin on Friday and run through Sunday. Info: blueridgeagility.com or 697-2118.

Do you have what it takes to play in an adult basketball league? Come to an organizational

mon meeting on Monday, Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Waynesville Recreation Center, 50 Vance St. Info: recathletics@townofwaynesville.org or 456-2030.

tue

Snuggle your kids in footed pajamas and listen to a classic winter tale at the Polar Express pajama party, presented by Curtain Call Collective, on Tuesday, Dec. 20 from 6-7 p.m. Held at The Hop, 640 Merrimon Ave., Suite 103. Info: thehopicecreamcafe.com.

a curator-led tour and discussion about The New Materiality exhibit.

• Through SU (3/18) - The New Materiality: Digital Dialogues at the Boundaries of Contemporary Craft.

• Through SU (3/4) Homage2 will pay tribute to Josef Albers.

Autumn in the Southern Appalachians • Through SU (1/1) Autumn and Winter in the Southern Appalachians, a juried exhibit of Carolina nature photographers, will be on display at Deerpark Inn at the Biltmore Estate, 1 Approach Road. Info: www.cnpa-asheville.org.

Bella Vista Art Gallery Located in Biltmore Village next to the parking lot of Rezaz’s restaurant.

Summer hours: Mon., Wed.-Sat., 10am-5pm.

Info: www.bellavistaart. com or 768-0246.

• Through SA (12/31) - Spider Series, works by Paul Owen, Tif McDonald and Nicora Gangi.

Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

The center is located at 56 Broadway and preserves the legacy of the Black Mountain College. Info: bmcmac@bellsouth.net or www.blackmountaincollege.org or 350-8484.

• Through SA (1/14) - John Cage: A Circle of Influences will explore Cage’s work during his time at Black Mountain College and his later collaborative projects.

Castell Photography A photo-based art gallery located at 2C Wilson Alley, off Eagle Street in downtown Asheville. Info: www. castellphotography.com or 255-1188.

• Through SA (12/31) - Salon 2011, works by 12 national and international photographers.

Center For Craft, Creativity and Design Located at the Kellogg Conference Center, 11 Broyles Road in Hendersonville. Info: www. craftscreativitydesign.org or 890-2050.

• Through FR (1/27) Common Threads, works by four fiber artists who

have collaborated with other artists or businesses.

Courtyard Gallery An eclectic art and performance space located at 109 Roberts St., Phil Mechanic Studios, River Arts District. Info: www. ashevillecourtyard.com or 273-3332.

• Through SA (12/31) Anything Goes - Everything Shows, the 5th annual mail art show. All entries received through the postal system will be exhibited.

Participants were encouraged to explore themes, sizes, shapes and media of any kind.

Crimson Laurel Gallery Info: 688-3599 or www. crimsonlaurelgallery.com.

23 Crimson Laurel Way, Bakersville.

• Through SA (12/31) - Interpreting the Cup: Process, Influence and Intent.

Horizons: Past and Present • Through MO (1/9) - Horizons: Past and Present, photographs by Jon Michael Riley, will be on display at Grace Centre

Church, 495 Cardinal Road, Mills River.

It’s A Small, Small Work • Through FR (12/31) - It’s A Small, Small Work will feature more than 100 works that are 12 inches or smaller. On display at Gallery 86, 86 N. Main St. Info: info@haywoodarts. org or 452-0593.

Kevin Carman Exhibit • Through MO (1/2) - Sculpture and paintings

by Kevin Carman will be on display at the Coop Gallery, 25 Carolina Lane.

Info: www.coopasheville. com.

Pump Gallery Located at the Phil Mechanic Studios Building in the River Arts District, 109 Roberts St. Info: www.philmechanicstudios. com.

• Through FR (12/30) - Madison J. Cripps (puppetry).

Push Skate Shop & Gallery Located at 25 Patton Ave., between Stella Blue and the Kress Building. Info: www.pushtoyproject.com or 225-5509.

621 Brevard Rd. • Asheville, NC 28806 • 1-800-522-7530

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 5

• Through TU (1/17) - See What Inspired Me, multimedia works by Severn Eaton.

Cinnamon Kitchen 1838 Hendersonville Rd • Ste 103 In Gerber Village

ckcuisine.com 828.575.2100

Revamp. Refit. Rejuvenate.

• Through FR (12/16) - Revamp. Refit.

Rejuvenate., a senior art exhibition for Bachelor of Arts in ceramics. Held at UNCA’s Owen Hall, second floor gallery.

• FR (12/16), 6-8pm Closing reception.

Seven Sisters Gallery This Black Mountain gallery is located at 117 Cherry St. Hours: Mon.Sat., 10am-6pm and Sun.,

noon-5pm. Info: www. sevensistersgallery.com or 669-5107.

• Through SU (3/11) - A Blue Ridge Rhapsody, works by Paul Hastings.

Steve Sloan • Through SA (12/31) Works by Steve Sloan will be on display at the Black Mountain Ale House, 117 Cherry St., #117C. Info: www.blackmountainalehouse.com or 669-9090.

The Artery Community arts facility at 346 Depot St., River Arts District. Info: www.ashevillearts.com.

• Through FR (12/30) Nuestras Voces, Nuestras Historias / Our Voices, Our Stories, works documenting immigrants in Western North Carolina.

The Jolly King Spectacular • Through WE (1/4) - The Jolly King Spectacular, new paintings by Keith Kimmel. Held at Asheville Art Supply, 344 Depot St., in the Pink Dog Creative building. Info: 231-3440, www.theartofkEith.com or http://on.fb.me/u71tRZ. Third Thursday at The Junction • TH (12/15), 6:30-9pm - Third Thursday at The

Junction, 348 Depot St., will feature paintings

by Asheville artist Carly Greene. Info: thejunctionasheville.com.

Winter’s Edge • Through SA (12/31) Winter’s Edge, assemblage works by Chad Adair, will be on display at 5 Walnut Wine Bar, 5 W. Walnut St. Info: www.5walnut.com.

Auditions & Call to Artists Golden LEAF Community Assistance Initiative

• Through TU (1/17) - The Golden LEAF Community Assistance Initiative will accept applications from Yancey and McDowell counties through Jan. 17.

Info: pcabe@goldenleaf. org or 888-684-8404.

Transylvania Community Arts Council Located at 349 S. Caldwell St., Brevard. Hours: Mon.Fri., 10am-4pm. Info: www.artsofbrevard.org or 884-2787.

• Through MO (1/16) - The TC Arts Council will accept submissions for its Five Elements exhibit through Jan. 16.

Business & Technology Arts2People Artist Resource Center Offering business management workshops for artists at 39 D S. Market St., downtown Asheville.

Classes, unless otherwise noted, are $35. Info and registration: www. arts2people.org or info@ arts2people.org.

• The Arts2People Artist Resource Center seeks instructors with business management skills.

Classes are geared towards creative professionals. Info: www.ashevillearc.com.

Classes, Meetings, events & leCtures Alexander Technique (pd.) Faculty member ASU Hayes School of Music, 25 years experience, will teach you how to play with satisfaction and ease!

Prevent injury and performance anxiety. Affordable.

(828) 225-3786.

FormFitnessFunction.com Body Mechanics for Massage Therapists (pd.) Alexander Technique is the Art of Human Ergonomics. Reduce wear and tear, improve resilience. 8 CE’s. $150.

January 21 & 22, 2012.

Call 828-225-3786.

FormFitnessFunction@ gmail.com Open Stitch Groups at Purl’s Yarn Emporium (pd.) On Wall Street downtown: Wednesdays, 10am12pm; Thursdays, 6-8pm.

Bring a knit or crochet project or find something new to cast on. (828) 2532750. www.purlsyarnemporium.com ACT vs SAT Comparison Test • SATURDAYS, 9am & SUNDAYS, 1pm - Asheville students are invited to take an “ACT

16 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

vs SAT Comparison Test” to determine which represents their best match. Held at Chyten Educational Services, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 104, Asheville. Free. Info and reservations: www. chyten-asheville.com or 505-2495.

Asheville Newcomers Club • 2nd WEDNESDAYS - Women who are new to the area are welcome to make new friends, explore Asheville and learn more about what our community has to offer. Join us for a meeting or activity. Info: ashevillenewcomersclub. com or 654-7414.

Asheville Tantra School Located at 2 Westwood Place, inside the Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism building. $10-15 per hour with sliding scale available for some classes. Info: www.

AshevilleTantra.com.

• WEDNESDAYS through (12/21), 7-10pm - “The Art of Intimacy: Really hearing and sharing skillfully.” White level (nonsexual discussion for all relationships).

• THURSDAYS through (12/29), 7-10pm - “The Art of Intimacy.” Pink level (discussion includes sexual intimacy).

• FR (12/16), 7-9:30pm - A men’s erotic massage class will feature a handsoff discussion and video.

• SA (12/17), 7:309:30pm - “Intima Games.”

• TUESDAYS through (12/27), 7:30-9:30pm “The Art of Compassionate Self Touch and Self Massage.”

• MONDAYS through (12/19), 7-9pm - “Men’s Sexual Energy: Build It, Contain It and Channel It.” Chorus Rehearsals • TUESDAYS, 7:30pm - Land of the Sky Chorus will hold rehearsals at Francis Asbury UMC, 725 Asbury Road, Candler.

New singers and guests welcome. Info: www. ashevillebarbershop.com or 866-290-7269.

Cribbage Group • MONDAYS, 6pm - Meets at Earth Fare Westgate for friendly game playing. All skill levels welcome. Info: 254-3899.

Events at New Creation ICCC New Creation International Christian Community Church is located at 33 Grace Way, Fletcher. Info: www.newcreationnc.org or 582-6968.

• 3rd MONDAYS, 6:308:30pm - “At the Table” discussion group aims to build bridges within the community. Share a meal (provided), thoughts and opinions while making new friends.

Farm to Fashion Opening Reception • FR (12/16), 5:30-8pm - Find out where your clothes and blankets come from as HandMade in America, 125 S. Lexington Ave #101A, displays the progression of fiber animals to fashions. Info: www.handmadeinamerica. org.

Henderson County Heritage Museum Located in the Historic Courthouse on Main Street in Hendersonville. Info: www.hendersoncountymuseum.org or 694-1619.

• Through FR (12/30) - An exhibit of Civil War artifacts will feature military weaponry and uniforms.

Italian Conversation Class • FRIDAYS through (1/20), 10-11am - An Italian conversation class will be offered at Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway. $40. Info: 6920575.

Open Strategic Innovation Seminar • TH (12/15), 7-9pm - An “Open Strategic Innovation” seminar will discuss climate change, poverty and government ethics. Held at UNCA’s Manheimer room. Info and registration: www.innovograph.blogspot.com.

Painting Demonstration • THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS through (12/22), 10am - Painting demonstrations will be offered by the Appalachian Pastel Society at ConnArtist Studios and Gallery, 611 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville. Free. Info: www.appalachianpastelsociety.org or 665-8538.

Sapphire Valley Community Center Located on U.S. 64 West.

Info: 743-7663.

• TH (12/15), 10am - Watercolor, acrylic and oil painting class. $40/$35 with your own supplies. — - noon - Native American craft class. $5. Sign up by 8pm on Dec. 14. Ages 10 and up. —- 1pm Dreamcatcher class. $15.

Sign up by 8pm on Dec. 14. Ages 10 and up.

The Fine Arts League of the Carolinas Located at 362 Depot St., in the River Arts District.

Info: www.fineartsleague. org or 252-5050.

• THURSDAYS, 7-9pm - Open drawing class with live models. $7/$5 students.

Dance Beginner Swing Dancing Lessons (pd.) 4 week series starts first Tuesday of every month at 7:30pm. $12/ week per person. • No partner necessary. Eleven on Grove, downtown Asheville. Details: www.

SwingAsheville.com Bharatanatyam Classes • Adult • Children (pd.) Bharatanatyam is the sacred classical dance form of India. Adult and children’s classes now forming. Traditional Kalakshetra Style. • DakshinaNatya Classical Arts. Riverview Station.

• Call Tess: (828) 3010331. Learn more: www. riverviewstation.com Studio Zahiya (pd.) Monday, 6-7 Yoga • 7:30-9 Bellydance • Tuesday 9-10am Hip Hop Workout • Noon-1pm Groove Dance • 6-7pm Beginner Bellydance, • 7-8pm Intermediate Bellydance • Wednesday 6-7 Pilates, • 7:30-9 Bellydance, • Thursday 9-10am Bellydance, • 67pm Bollywood, • 8-9pm Hip Hop, • Friday 1011am Bhangra Workout. • $12 for 60 minute classes.

90 1/2 N. Lexington Avenue. www.studiozahiya.com Southern Lights SDC Held at the Whitmire Activity Building, 301 Lily Pond Road, Hendersonville. Info: 6969198.

• SA (12/17), 7pm Christmas Ball dance.

World Dance Spectacular • WE (12/14), 7:30pm - The World Dance Spectacular and Studio Zahiya holiday party will be held at the Altamont Theatre, 18 Church St. $18/$15 at the door. Info: http://avl.mx/7d.

Eco Hendersonville Green Drinks • TH (12/15), 6-8pm - Hendersonville Green Drinks will meet at Southern Appalachian Brewery, 822 Locust St., Hendersonville. Info: www. greendrinks.org or 6841235.

Heritage Tree Sale • Through SA (2/11) - A heritage tree sale, hosted

by ECO, will offer apple, chestnut, peach and other trees. Limited quantities; early reservations suggested. $25 to benefit ECO. Info: www.eco-wnc. org or 692-0385.

N.C. Arboretum Events The Arboretum hosts a variety of educational programs. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free with parking fee ($8/vehicle). No parking fees on 1st Tuesdays.

Located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way. Info: www.ncarboretum.org or 665-2492.

• Through MO (1/2), 10am-4pm - “Sustainable Shelter” will feature scale models and interactive computer games to investigate how humans can green their homes. $3/$2 students.

• Through MO (1/2) - The Home Green Home exhibit will feature animal shelters, insect hives and nests.

RiverLink Events RiverLink, WNC’s organization working to improve life along the French Broad, sponsors a variety of river-friendly events.

Info: www.riverlink.org or 252-8474.

• TH (12/15), 11:45am - A riverfront bus tour will depart from the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, 36 Montford Ave.

Government & Politics Open Strategic Innovation Seminar • TH (12/15), 7pm - An innovative community brainstorming session will be held at UNCA’s Reuter Center, Manheimer Room.

Thoughts, ideas, questions, concerns and solutions will be shared. For active citizens, public officials and social innovators. $15. Info & registration: http://bit.ly/tGlPks. Photography To Benefit Occupy Asheville • SA (12/17), 6-9pm Photographs and video of Liberty Plaza in New York City will be sold to benefit the Occupy Asheville Street Medic Team. Held at Firestorm Cafe, 48 Commerce St. Info: www. occupyasheville.org.

Tough on Crime • TU (12/20), 7pm - Delve into whether America’s justice system is too tough or not tough enough and explore whether the country is more or less safe at this film screening. Held

at Mountain Java, 901 Smokey Park Highway, Candler. Info: tharkey@ charter.net.

Gardening Amaryllis Sale • Through TU (12/20) - An amaryllis sale will take place at Bullington Center, 33 Upper Red Oak Trail, Hendersonville. Info: www. bullingtoncenter.org or 698-6104.

Kids Sweet Tee Mini-Golf • Biltmore Square Mall (pd.) Affordable Family Fun, Free Toddler Play Area, Free Events Weekly, Game Area.

Small beer selection.

Like Us on Facebook, get event updates. www.

SweetTeeMiniGolf.com Art and Poetry Contest for Kids • Through FR (3/9) - RiverLink will accept submissions from children in grades pre-K through 12 for the Voices of the River Art and Poetry Contest through March 9. Info: www.riverlink.org or 2528474.

Basketball Free Throw Contest • FR (12/16), 5pm - A basketball free throw contest for children ages 8-13 will be held at Waynesville Recreation Center, 550 Vance St. Free. Birth certificate required at registration. Info: 452-6789.

Celebration Singers • THURSDAYS, 6:207:45pm - The Celebration Singers of Asheville Community Youth Chorus invites children ages 714 to join. Held at First Congregational Church, 20 Oak St. Info: 230-5778.

Hands On! This children’s museum is located at 318 North Main St., Hendersonville. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm.

Admission is $5, with discounts available on certain days. Info: www.handsonwnc.org or 697-8333.

• WE (12/14), 10:30am - A book-themed craft will feature supplies donated by Fountainhead Bookstore. Free with admission or membership.

Letters to Santa • Through TU (12/20) - Children are invited to write letters to Santa and receive a personal reply.

Drop off letters at 1831 Hendersonville Road. Info: www.postnet.com/nc141 or 239-2972.

Mother Goose Story Time • MONDAYS & SATURDAYS, 10:30-11am - Sweet Tee Mini Golf will host Mother Goose Story Time at The Biltmore Square Mall, next to Dillard’s. “Join us for reading, singing and dancing.”

1 1/2 years and under, siblings welcome. Info: 333-1152 or www.sweetteeminigolf.com.

Performances at Diana Wortham Theatre Located at 2 South Pack Square. Info: www.dwtheatre.com or 257-4530.

• MO (12/19), 10am & noon - Billy Jonas will perform a concert for children. $7. Info: 210-9837.

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

• SA (12/17), 10:30am12:30pm - The Crafty Historian will offer a children’s tour of the Smith-McDowell House decorations. Toy and ornament crafts to follow. $5. Registration recommended.

Swim Lessons

• MONDAYS through THURSDAYS until (12/15) - Swim lessons for kids ages 3 and up. Level 1 meets at 4:30pm, level 2 at 5pm. Held at Waynesville Recreation Center, 550 Vance St. $35/$30 members. Info: recaquatics@townofwaynesville.org or 4562030.

Outdoors Winter Group Runs (pd.) Experienced coach leads training runs throughout the winter.

Stay in shape all winter long! Weaver Park and other locations. $65 per 6 weeks. Sundays, 9:30am. (828) 225-3786.

FormFitnessFunction.com Lake James State Park N.C. Highway 126. Info: 584-7728.

• SA (12/17), 9am - A winter birding guided walk will depart from the Paddy’s Creek Area office.

Binoculars and field guide recommended. —- 2pm - A winter wildlife nature hike will depart from the Paddy’s Creek Bridge parking lot.

• SU (12/18), 9am - A winter birding guided walk will depart from the

Paddy’s Creek Area office.

Binoculars and field guides recommended. —- 2pm A wilderness survival class will be held at the Catawba River Area office.

• WE (12/21), 2pm - Learn the proper way to feed wildlife and make nutritious “treats” for birds, squirrels and deer.

Meets at the Catawba River Area office.

Swannanoa Valley Museum Located at 223 W. State St., Black Mountain. Info: 669-9566 or www.swannanoavalleymuseum.org.

• SA (12/17), 8am - A hike along the Swannanoa Rim. Registration required.

Performance & Film Song O’ Sky Show Chorus (pd.) TUESDAYS, 6:45pm - Rehearsal at First Congregational United Church of Christ (UCC) 20 Oak Street Asheville 28801.(Enter Fellowship Hall-lower level). Guests welcome. Contact: www. songosky.org Toll Free # 1-866-824-9547.

999 Eyes Surreal Side Show • WE (12/14), 7pm - “999 EYES,” featuring sideshow

performances and authentic genetic human anomalies. Acts will include blockheads, balloon swallowers, bed of nails, electric lady acts, glass walkers, burlesque and human pincushions, all set to a live music soundtrack.

Held at The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave. Info: www.thegreyeagle.com.

Angela Easterling • TH (12/15), 3pm - Angela Easterling (singer/ songwriter) will perform at the Henderson County Public Library, 301 N. Washington St. Info: 6974725.

Battle of the Songwriters • WE (12/21), 8-11pm - Battle of the Songwriters invites solo singer/songwriters to perform for prizes. Held at the Black Mountain Ale House, 117C Cherry St. Free. Info: www.blackmountainalehouse.com or 669-9090.

Blue Ridge Orchestra Info: www.blueridgeorchestra.org or 650-0948.

• WEDNESDAYS, 79:30pm - Open rehearsals for the Blue Ridge Orchestra will be held most Wednesdays at the symphony office in the

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 17

Eating Right for Good Health presented by

Saving with Laura Lynn (Ingles Store Brand)

Leah McGrath, RD, LDN Corporate Dietitian, Ingles Markets

Often we are stuck in a shopping rut. Each week we buy the same brand name products because they are familiar. The next time you’re at Ingles I challenge you to look around for some of our many Laura Lynn items that are available throughout the store. Some of them are ”Best Sellers” which means that they sell better than their brand name counterparts because of taste and price. We also have many Harvest Farm products, our store brand of USDA certified organic items.

Here is what you could be saving*: Laura Lynn/Harvest Farm

Brand Name

Savings

Reduced fat Lactose free milk

$3.48

$4.18

$0.70

Organic fat-free milk

$3.53

$4.38

$0.85

Frozen raspberries (12oz)

$2.98

$5.18

$2.20

Organic coffee

$7.18

$8.48

$1.30

Low Sodium Chicken Broth (32oz)

$2.48

$3.05

$0.57

Quick Oats

$1.68

$2.98

$1.30

*prices as of 12/6/12

Leah McGrath: Follow me on Twitter www.twitter.com/InglesDietitian Work: 800-334-4936

18 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Civic Center. Free. Call for confirmation.

Button Wagon • FR (12/16) & SA (12/17), 8pm - Button Wagon, a circus and theater show, will feature contortions and illusions.

Held at the BeBe Theater, 20 Commerce St. $20/$5 children. Info: www. buttonwagon.com or 2542621.

Carolina Concert Choir • FR (12/16), 7:30pm & SA (12/17), 3pm - A winter concert will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, 766 N. Main St., Hendersonville. $20/$10 students. Info: 808-2314.

Classic World Cinema Foreign Film Series Presented by Courtyard Gallery, 109 Roberts St., Phil Mechanic Studios, River Arts District in Asheville.

Info: Cranky Hanke’s Reviews under “Special Showings,” www.ashevillecourtyard.com or 2733332.

• FR (12/16), 8pm - Lipsett & Deren: Retrospective on experimental filmmakers Arthur Lipsett and Maya Deren.

Coming Home • TH (12/22), 10pm - The premier of Coming Home, four short films about kayaking, will be held at Asheville Pizza Company, 675 Merrimon Ave. $6 includes raffle ticket to benefit Our Voice and RiverLink. Info: horizonlinepics@gmail.com.

Crystal Music CoOP • THURSDAYS, 7pm - “Listen to Each Other While We Play” drum meditation will be offered at 41 Carolina Lane. Bring your drum or borrow one of ours. By donation. Info: 310-745-9150.

Dobra Tea Located at 78 N. Lexington Ave. Info: www.dobrateanc.com.

• WE (12/14), 8pm Shantavaani (South Indian music).

Duo Deo Gloria • SU (12/18), 7pm - The Adult Choir and Orchestra presents two versions of “Gloria in excelsis Deo,”

by Antonio Vivaldi and John Rutter, at First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak St. Childcare available.

Info: www.fbca.net.

Fairy Tale Courtroom • FR (12/16), 7pm - Fairy Tale Courtroom, a comedy

by Dana Proulx, will be presented by the North Buncombe Middle School Drama and First Stage

Youth Theatre at North Buncombe Middle School, 51 N. Buncombe School Road, Weaverville. Info: Mscolvin4@aol.com.

Jam Session • 3rd SATURDAYS, 1-3pm - An old time jam session will be held at Oconaluftee Visitor Center, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, U.S. 441. Info: www. nps.gov/grsm.

Slice of Life Comedy • THURSDAYS, 8:30pm - Stand-up comedy and booked open-mic. Free snacks, drink specials and a raffle for charity will be provided for $5.

Professional video taping available for performers.

Held at Pulp, below the Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave., on Dec. 15, 22 and 29. Info and booking: sliceoflifecomedy@gmail. com.

Song O’ Sky at St. Matthias • SU (12/18), 3pm - The Song O’ Sky Show Chorus will perform a collection of seasonal favorites, along with standards old and new, in a cappella barbershop-style harmony at St. Matthias Episcopal Church, 1 Dundee St. Info: www. songosky.org.

The Altamont Located at 18 Church St. Info: www.myaltamont. com or 274-8070.

• SA (12/17), 8pm - Stand-up comedy with Seaton Smith.

The Hop Ice cream, concerts and community events. 640 Merrimon Ave., Suite 103, unless otherwise noted. www.thehopicecreamcafe. com or 254-2224.

• FR (12/16), 6:307:30pm - Natalya and John from Red June will perform at The Hop West, 721 Haywood Road.

Seniors Alexander Technique Courses for Seniors (pd.) Improve equilibrium, lightness and flexibility.

Reduce and prevent joint pain. Increase confidence. Personalized private instruction delivers long term benefits. (828) 225-3786.

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Spirituality Awareness Group‚This Saturday (pd.) Come relax and be inspired with Crystal and Tibetan Bowl Sound Healing, Breathwork

and Guided Meditation.

Facilitated by Isa Soler, LMHC, LPC, C.Ht., Saturday, December 17, 4pm-5:30pm, Lighten Up Yoga.‚ 60 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville. Donations accepted. isa@awaretherapy.com Asheville Center for Transcendental Meditation (“TM”) (pd.) Discover why TM is the world’s most effective and scientifically validated meditation technique. Clinically proven to boost brain function and reduce anxiety, depression, addiction, and ADHD. Allows you to effortlessly transcend the busy, agitated mind to experience inner peace and unbounded awareness. • Free Introductory Class: Thursday, 6:30pm, 165 E. Chestnut • Topics: How meditation techniques differ • Meditation and brain research • What is enlightenment? (828) 254-4350. www.MeditationAsheville. org Astro-Counseling (pd.) Licensed counselor and accredited professional astrologer uses your chart when counseling for additional insight into yourself, your relationships and life directions.

Readings also available.

Christy Gunther, MA, LPC. (828) 258-3229.

Bharatanatyam Classes (pd.) Bharatanatyam is the sacred classical dance form of India. Adult and children’s classes now forming. Traditional Kalakshetra Style. • DakshinaNatya Classical Arts. Riverview Station.

• Call Tess: (828) 3010331. Learn more: www. riverviewstation.com Compassionate Communication (pd.) Learn ways to create understanding and clarity in your relationships, work, and community by practicing compassionate communication.

Great for couples! Group uses model developed

by Marshall Rosenberg in his book “Non-violent Communication, A Language of Life.” Free.

Info: 299-0538 or www. ashevilleccc.com. • 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 5:006:15—Practice group for newcomers and experienced practitioners.

Events To Uplift Humanity With Bill Bowers (pd.) Bill Bowers Guidance: Connect with Spirit in a private or group session. • Contact Bill:

(828) 216-9039 or visionsjtf@hotmail.com • www. billbowersguidance.com Illuminating Your Path (pd.) Master Psychic Intuitive. Nina Anin. 828253-7472. Email expertwisdom.@gmail.com Ananda Marga Yoga • TUESDAYS, 7pm - Ananda Marga Yoga hosts weekly meditation, chanting and philosophy sessions at 22 Ravenscroft Drive. Free. Info: 9896227.

Aramaic Healing Circle • TU (12/20), 7pm - Aramaic spirituality mystic Dale Allen Hoffman presents “Birthing Christ: A Winter Solstice Awakening,” featuring crystal bowl healing, meditation, ancient Aramaic vocal intonations, insights into the Christmas Story and extended meditative silence. Held at the Center for Spiritual Living, 3 Science of Mind Way. Info: 253-2325.

Cloud Cottage Sangha Location: 219 Old Toll Circle in Black Mountain.

Info: www.cloudcottage. org or 669-0920.

• WEDNESDAYS, 67:30pm & SUNDAYS, 8-10am - Weekly meetings will feature seated and walking meditation, Dharma talks and chanting.

• 3rd SUNDAYS, 8-10am - Zen 101.

Dharma Class • TUESDAYS, 7pm - Dharma class with Venerable Pannavati Bhikkuni. All are welcome; by donation. Held at 60 Caledonia Road #B (the carriage house behind the Kenilworth Inn Apartments). Info: 5052856.

Events at Montford Books & More Used bookstore hosting workshops and authors at 31 Montford Ave. Info: www.montfordbooks.com or 285-8805.

• SUNDAYS, 7pm-8:30 - Join Buddhist teacher Hannah Kim for an exploration of the book Modern Buddhism by Gehse Kelsang Gyatso. Includes meditation, talk and discussion. $8/$5 seniors and students. Info: meditationinasheville@gmail. com.

I Ching Support and Study Group • THURSDAYS, 6-8:30pm - “I Ching Support and Study Group,” a study of Taoism and I Ching practice, will meet at an area cafe, to be determined.

freewillastrology ARIES (March 21-April 19): Jim Moran (1908-1999) called himself a publicist, but I regard him as a pioneer performance artist. At various times in his colorful career, he led a bull through a china shop in New York City, changed horses in midstream in Nevada’s Truckee River, and looked for a needle in a haystack until he found it. You might want to draw inspiration from his work in the coming weeks, Aries. You will not only have a knack for mutating cliches and scrambling conventional wisdom.

In doing so, you could also pull off feats that might seem improbable.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): One possible way to tap into the current cosmic opportunities would be to seek out storegasms — the ecstatic feelings released while exercising one’s buyological urges in consumer temples crammed with an obscene abundance of colorful material goods. But I advise you against doing that. It wouldn’t be a very creative solution to the epic yearnings that are welling up in your down-below-and-deep-inside parts. Instead, I offer a potentially far more satisfying recommendation: Routinely maneuver yourself into positions where your primal self will be filled up with sublime wonder, mysterious beauty, and smart love.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I’m not an either-or type of person. I don’t think that there are just two sides of every story and that you have to align yourself with one or the other. That’s one reason why, as an America voter, I reject the idea that I must either sympathize with the goals of the Democratic Party or the Republican Party. It’s also why I’m bored by the trumped-up squabble between the atheists and the fundamentalist Christians, and the predictable arguments between dogmatic cynics and fanatical optimists. I urge you to try my approach in the coming weeks, Gemini. Find a third way between any two sides that tend to divide the world into Us against Them.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): No one actually looks like the retouched images of the seemingly perfect people in sexy ads. It’s impossible to be that flawless, with no wrinkles, blemishes, and scars. Acknowledging this fact, the iconic supermodel Cindy Crawford once said, “I wish I looked like Cindy Crawford.” Our

homework Make a prediction about what you will do in 2012. Tell me about it by going to RealAstrology.com and clicking on “Email Rob.” © Copyright 2011 Rob Brezsny

unconscious inclination to compare ourselves to such unrealistic ideals is the source of a lot of mischief in our lives. Your assignment in the coming week, Cancerian, is to divest yourself, as much as possible, of all standards of perfection that alienate you from yourself or cause you to feel shame about who you really are. (More fodder to motivate you: tinyurl.com/SoftKill.)

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Barney Oldfield (1878-1946) was a pioneer car racer who was the first ever to run a 100-mileper-hour lap at the Indianapolis 500. He was a much better driver while setting speed records and beating other cars on racetracks than he was at moseying through regular street traffic. Why? He said he couldn’t think clearly if he was traveling at less than 100 miles per hour. I suspect you may temporarily have a similar quirk, Leo — not in the way you drive but rather in the way you live and work and play. To achieve maximum lucidity, you may have to be moving pretty fast.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Back in August 2010, there was an 11-day traffic snarl on a Chinese highway. At one point the stuck vehicles stretched for 60 miles and inched along at the rate of a mile per day. In that light, your current jam isn’t so bad. It may be true that your progress has been glacial lately, but at least you’ve had a bed to sleep in and a bathroom to use, which is more than can be said for the stranded Chinese motorists and truck drivers.

Plus I’m predicting that your own personal jam is going to disperse sometime in the next few days.

Be prepped and ready to rumble on.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Here’s a joke from Woody Allen’s movie Annie Hall: “Two elderly women are in a Catskills Mountain resort and one of them says: ‘Boy, the food at this place is really terrible.’ The other one says, ‘Yeah, I know — and such small portions.’” Is it possible you’re acting like the second woman, Libra? Are you being influenced to find fault with something that you actually kind of like? Are you ignoring your own preferences simply because you think it might help you to be close to those whose preferences are different?

I urge you not to do that in the coming week.

According to my analysis of the astrological omens, it’s very important that you know how you feel and stay true to your feelings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The Los Angeles school district dramatically downgraded the role that homework plays in the life of its students. Beginning this fall, the assignments kids do after school account for only 10 percent of their final grade. As far as you’re concerned, Scorpio, that’s not a good trend to follow. In fact, I think you should go in the opposite direction. During the enhanced learning phase you’re now entering, your homework will be more important than ever. In order to take full advantage of the rich educational opportunities

that will be flowing your way, you should do lots of research, think hard about what it all means, and in general be very well-prepared. The period between late 2011 and early 2012 is homework time for you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The Amazon is the second longest river in the world, and has such a voluminous flow that it comprises 20 percent of all river water in the world. And yet there is not a single bridge that crosses it. I love that fact. It comforts and inspires me to know that humans have not conquered this natural wonder. Which leads me to my advice for you this week, Sagittarius. Please consider keeping the wild part of you wild. It’s certainly not at all crucial for you to civilize it.

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Emotion is the resource we treasure when we’re young, says poet Naomi Shihab Nye, but eventually what we thrive on even more is energy.

“Energy is everything,” she says, “not emotion.”

And where does energy come from? Often, from juxtaposition, says Nye. “Rubbing happy and sad together creates energy; rubbing one image against another.” That’s what she loves about being a poet. Her specialty is to conjure magic through juxtaposition. “Our brains are desperate for that kind of energy,” she concludes. I mention this, Capricorn, because the coming weeks will be prime time for you to drum up the vigor and vitality that come from mixing and melding and merging, particularly in unexpected or uncommon ways.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Studies show that if you’re sharing a meal with one other person, you’re likely to eat up to 35 percent more food than if you’re dining alone. If you sit down at the table with four companions, you’ll probably devour 75 percent extra, and if you’re with a party of eight, your consumption may double. As I contemplate your horoscope, these facts give me pause. While I do suspect you will benefit from socializing more intensely and prolifically, I also think it’ll be important to raise your commitment to your own physical health.

Can you figure out a way to do both, please?

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PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “Were it not for the leaping and twinkling of the soul,” said psychologist Carl Jung, “human beings would rot away in their greatest passion, idleness.” To that edgy observation I would add this corollary: One of the greatest and most secret forms of idleness comes from being endlessly busy at unimportant tasks. If you are way too wrapped up in doing a thousand little things that have nothing to do with your life’s primary mission, you are, in my opinion, profoundly idle.

All the above is prelude for the climactic advice of this week’s horoscope, which goes as follows: Give everything you have to stimulate the leaping and twinkling of your soul.

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 9

consciousparty

fun fundraisers

What: Step in the Name of Love: A Love Ball fundraiser for The Urban Arts Institute.

Where: The YMI, 39 South Market St. 252-4614 or Arts2People.org When: Friday, Dec. 16, from 7 p.m. to midnight. $25/$40 couple.

Why: The Urban Arts Institute is an after-school program dedicated to helping youth empower themselves through the spirit of hip-hop. Founded in 2007 by Michael Hayes, more than 150 teens and kids are currently enrolled in the dance program.

“We are empowering and enriching the under-served youth of Asheville. It sends a really positive message about the kids — that they’re not just about the gangs,” says Hayes. “It’s also great for the kids to hear that applause after a performance.”

The Urban Arts Institute is a program of Arts2People, which has been serving the city of Asheville for 10 years through cultural programs, outreach, public art and the support of local creative professionals via the Artist Resource Center. “The UAI and Arts2People are working to provide meaningful cultural experiences that knit the community together through art, creativity and the joy of self expression,” reads the UAI mission.

Hayes says he hopes to raise awareness about the Urban Arts Institute and generate funds for the production of I Hope You Dance, an original play written by Anthony E. Alexander of the W.C. Reid Center, based on stories from the kids. The fundraiser will include music by West Sound Productions, and there will be a choreographed “urban ballroom and line dancing event.”

benefitscalendar CALENDAR FOR DECEMBER 14 - 22, 2011 Chanukah Judaica/Gift Shop • Congregation Beth Israel Asheville (pd.) Expands it’s Judaica/Gift Shop from November 21 through Chanukah (December 28) by occupying a Micro Cottage generously donated by Compact Cottages Company, which will be located outside the Synagogue. Choose from a wide selection of traditional Judaica items and Chanukah gifts for the entire family. • Visit us Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 11am3pm and Sundays 9:30am-1:30pm. 229 Murdock Avenue.

(704) 773-3901. mandlnewman@yahoo.com

Bid For Kids • WE (12/14), 5:30pm - A live auction to benefit Caring for Children, Eliada Home, Helpmate, Children First and Mountain Area Child and Family Center will be held at Brunk Auctions, 117 Tunnel Road. Info: www.avlbidsforkids.org or 254-6846.

Christmas Tree Sale for Charity • Through SA (12/24) - The Artisan Gourmet Market will host a Christmas tree sale to benefit Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries, Camp Lakey Gap, Swannanoa Valley Museum and others. Held at 2 East Market St., Black Mountain. Mon.-

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Fundraising Auction For Family Of Local Artist • TU (12/20), 5-8pm - A fundraising auction for the family of Karen Marjorie Pollpeter Brzostoski, a local artist who recently lost her battle with cancer, will be held at Jubilee! Community, 46 Wall St. Info: www.auctionbenefit.weebly.com or www.karenswonderfullife.com.

Santa Cause • FR (12/16), 8pm-2am - A benefit for BeLoved, presented by the Asheville Artists Group and Penland-area artists, will feature live music, juggling and a holiday gift market. Held at Club Eleven at the Grove House, 11 Grove St. $10 donation. Info: www.beloved.bbnow.org.

Shawls for Sharing • Through TU (1/31) - Traditions Acupuncture Foundation will sell pashmina shawls at Chinese Acupuncture Clinic, 369 Montford Ave., and Village Antiques, 755 Biltmore Ave., to raise funds for alternative care for the medically underserved in Asheville area. $30 with a $24 tax-deductible receipt. Info: www. traditionsacupuncturefoundation.org.

MORE BENEFITS EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Benefits Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after December 22.

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

Info: patrickgfrank@gmail. com.

Meditation and Satsang with Madhyanandi • MONDAYS through THURSDAYS, 6am-9pm - Meditate and practice with an awakened yogini.

Sessions available by appointment. All fees by donation; no one will be turned away. Info: www. thepeoplesashram.org or madhyanandi@gmail.com.

Meditation in the Kriya Yoga Tradition • SUNDAYS, 9 & 11am; THURSDAYS, 6:30pm - The Center for Spiritual Awareness will host meditation in the Kriya yoga tradition for spiritual and personal growth. By donation. Info and location: www.csa-asheville.org or 490-1136.

Sound Healing Circle • MONDAYS, 7-8:30pm - “Come and receive if you are feeling lowly and in need of support or come and share healing light if your bliss cup runneth over.” Bring bowls, bells, rattles, didge, etc. Held at 41 Carolina Lane. By donation. Info: 310-7459150.

The Spiritual Life • SU (12/18), 11am-noon - “Herein lies the key to love. Love builds bridges.

Soul exists because God loves it. Soul equals Soul; no one Soul is greater than another. Discover keys to a life of greater love, wisdom, and freedom.”

Held at Eckankar Center of Asheville, 797 Haywood Road. Info: www.eckankarnc.org.

Unity Center Events Located at 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills River. Info: www.unitync. net, 684-3798 or 8918700.

• WE (12/14), 7pm - “Godseed: The Journey of Christ,” an “experimental” journey into the life of Jesus of Nazareth.

Donations encouraged.

• WE (12/21), 7pm - Satsang with Rev. Chad will feature guided meditation and discussion.

Donations encouraged.

Unity Church of Asheville Located at 130 Shelburne Road. Info: www.unityofasheville.com or 252-5010.

• TUESDAYS, 2-4pm - A Search For God A.R.E. Study Group.

• SUNDAYS, 11am - Spiritual celebration service —- 12:30-2pm - A Course in Miracles study group.

Vipassana Meditation

• WE (12/14), 7-9pm - A documentary and Q&A session about Vipassana meditation will be held at the West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road.

Free. Info: www.patapa. dhamma.org.

Wiccan Open Court • FRIDAYS, 7-9pm - Open Court meets weekly in Marshall for potluck, Wiccan principals and elements, meditations, hand crafting and occasional ceremonies.

Provided by Highland Wild Coven. Info and location: shinemoon76@yahoo. com.

Windhorse Zen Community Newcomers call ahead for orientation. Located at 580 Panther Branch Road, near Weaverville. Info: www. windhorsezen.org or 6458001.

• SUNDAYS, 9:30am - Meditation, chanting and Dharma talk, followed by a vegetarian potluck lunch.

Young Adult Friends Worship Group • SATURDAYS, 4-6:30pm - This small Quaker group for young adults meets upstairs at Asheville Friends Meeting House, 227 Edgewood Road.

Singing and silence will be followed by a potluck. For Quakers, quasi-Quakers and anyone who is interested. Info: biercewilson@ gmail.com.

Zen Center of Asheville • WEDNESDAYS, 78:30pm - Zazen and dharma talks will be offered at 12 Van Ruck Court. Enter at back deck.

Info: www.zcasheville.org or 398-4212.

Spoken & Written Word Montreat Books and Gifts (pd.) Saturday, Dec. 17.

Just in time for last-minute holiday shopping, visit Montreat Books and Gifts to save 50% on books, pottery, cards, toys, children’s books, holiday decorations, candles, jewelry, art and much more.

Store hours 10-5, MondaySaturday. Montreat Books and Gifts is just 15 minutes east of Asheville offI-40 in Montreat, NC. 303 Lookout Rd. Attention WNC Mystery Writers • TH (12/22), 6-9pm - The WNC Mysterians Critique Group will meet at Atlanta Bread Company, 633 Merrimon Ave # A. For serious mystery/suspense/thriller writers. Not

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Buncombe County Public Libraries LIBRARY ABBREVIATIONS - Each Library event is marked by the following location abbreviations: n EC = Enka-Candler Library (1404 Sandhill Road, 250-4758) n FV = Fairview Library (1 Taylor Road, 250-6484) n WV = Weaverville Library (41 N. Main Street, 250-6482) n Library storyline: 250KIDS. • TH (12/15), 7pm - Book club: The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins. FV • SA (12/17), 1pm - Holiday music with Pastymes (a capella). WV • 3RD TUESDAYS, 6:308pm - A meeting of the Asheville chapter of the National Railway Historic Society. EC City Lights Bookstore Located at 3 E. Jackson St., Sylva. Info: more@ citylightsnc.com or 5869499.

• TH (12/15), 10:30am “Coffee with the Poet.”

Events at Malaprop’s The bookstore and cafe at 55 Haywood St. hosts visiting authors for talks and book signings. Info: www.malaprops.com or 254-6734.

• TH (12/15), 7pm Stitch-n-Bitch.

• SA (12/17), 1-3pm - Elizabeth Engelhardt will read from her new book A Mess of Greens: Southern Gender and Southern Food.

Events at Spellbound Spellbound Children’s Bookshop is located at 19 Wall St. in downtown Asheville. Info: 232-2228 or spellboundbooks@ netzero.com.

• SA (12/17), 2pm Nancy Silberkleit, co-CEO of Archie Comics, will sign Archie graphic novels and lead a workshop for kids and adults on how to create comic books.

The Magnetic Field A cafe, bar and performance house located at 372 Depot St. in the River Arts District. Info: www. themagneticfield.com or 257-4003.

• 1st and 3rd MONDAYS, 7:30-10pm - The Synergy Story Slam is an opportunity to share stories, laugh, learn and build a stronger community. Registration begins at 7pm.

Tryon Fine Arts Center

Located at 34 Melrose Ave., in Tryon. Info: www. tryonarts.org or 859-8322.

• WE (12/14), 5:307:30pm - Phyllis A. Eifert will read from her book Sixty Two Years of Drawing, Painting and Sculpture.

Sports Hot Chocolate 10K Training Program! (pd.) 5 weeks.

Personalized coached workouts every Wednesday at 6pm and Saturday at 9am. All levels. Carrier Park and UNCA. $50. (828) 225-3786.

FormFitnessFunction.com Adult Basketball League • MO (12/19), 6:30pm - An organizational meeting for an adult basketball league will be held at Waynesville Recreation Center, 50 Vance St. Info: recathletics@ townofwaynesville.org or 456-2030.

Jus’ Running Weekly coach-led runs.

Meet at 523 Merrimon Ave., unless otherwise noted. Info: www.jusrunning.com.

• MONDAYS, 6pm - Fivemile group run, 10-11 minutes per mile.

•TUESDAYS, 6:30pm - Run from the store to the UNCA track for a maggot track workout. There will also be a post-workout get together at a local restaurant.

•WEDNESDAYS, 6:30pm - Eight-mile group run.

•THURSDAYS, 6pm Eight-mile run from Jus’ Running store.

Pickleball • MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 9-11am - Pickleball is like playing ping pong on a tennis court. Groups meet weekly at Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 G.W. Carver St. For all ages/levels. $1 per session. Info: stephenslee@ashevillenc. gov or 350-2058.

Spin Class • TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS, 5:30-6:30pm - A spin class will be offered at Waynesville Recreation Center, 550 Vance St. Daily admission charge/free for members. Info: recaquatics@ townofwaynesville.org or 456-2030.

Step Aerobics Class • TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 5:30-6:30pm - Enhance cardio, strength and flexibility at this step aerobics, weights and

stretch class. Meets at Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 G.W. Carver St. Open to all levels. Free.

Info: stephenslee@ashevillenc.gov or 350-2058.

Support Groups Adult Children Of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families ACOA is an anonymous 12-step, “Twelve Tradition” program for women and men who grew up in alcoholic or otherwise dysfunctional homes. Info: www. adultchildren.org.

• FRIDAYS, 7pm - “Inner Child” meets at Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. Info: 9898075.

• SATURDAYS, 9:45am - “There is a Solution” meets at Unity Center, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills River. Info: 749-9537.

• SUNDAYS, 3pm - “Living in the Solution” meets at The Servanthood House, 156 E. Chestnut St. Open big book study. Info: 9898075.

• SUNDAYS, 2pm Canton Inner Child study group: 11 Pennsylvania, Ave., Canton. Info: 6482924.

• MONDAYS, 7pm “Generations” meets at First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St. Info: 474-5120.

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: www. wnc-alanon.org or 800286-1326.

• WEDNESDAYS, 5:45pm - An Al-Anon meeting for women will be held at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, 798 Merrimon Ave. at Gracelyn Road. Newcomers welcome.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm - Al-Anon meeting at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, 798 Merrimon Ave. at Gracelyn Road.

Newcomers welcome.

• THURSDAYS, 7pm - “Parents of Children with Alcoholism,” West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road.

• FRIDAYS, 12:30pm - “Keeping the Focus,” First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. —- 8pm - “Lambda,” Cathedral of All Souls, 9 Swan St. • SATURDAYS, 10am - “Grace Fireside,” Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. —- 10am

- “Saturday Serenity,” St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Charlotte Street at Macon Avenue. —- noon - “Courage to Change,” Bess Sprinkle Memorial Library, Weaverville.

• SUNDAYS, 5pm - AlAnon and Alateen, West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road.

• MONDAYS, noon “Keeping the Focus,” First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. —- 6pm - “Attitude of Gratitude,” Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. —- 7pm - Meeting at First Christian Church, 201 Blue Ridge Road, Black Mountain.

• TUESDAYS, 9:45am - “Serenity Through Courage and Wisdom,” St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 109 Crescent Hill, Arden.

—- 5:30pm - “Steps to Recovery,” Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, 123 Kenilworth Road. —- 7pm - “One Day at a Time,” First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St. Autism Parent Support Group • 4th THURSDAYS, 6-8pm - Meet parents of children with autism, share your experiences and learn from others. RSVP by 3rd Thursday to ensure childcare. Held at St. Gerard House, 718 Oakland St., Hendersonville. Info: http:// stgerardhouse.com.

CAPES Monthly Caregiver Support Group • MO (12/19), 5-6:30pm - CAPES (Caring for Aging Parents Education and Support) meets monthly at Mission Hospital’s Wellness Resource Center, 50 Doctors Drive. CAPES serves anyone caring for or concerned about an aging parent or adult. Free.

Info: 277-8288 or 2134542.

Center for New Beginnings • 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 6-7pm - A support group for those who have lost a loved one through a traffic accident, murder or crimerelated death will meet at Center for New Beginnings, 34 Wall St., Suite 802.

Facilitated by Tom Parks and Lori Gerber, MS. Free.

Info: 989-9306.

Co-Dependents Anonymous A fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships.

• SATURDAYS, 11am - Meeting at First Congregational UCC, 20 Oak St. Info: 779-2317 or 299-1666.

Debters and Underearners Anonymous • MONDAYS, 7pm - The local chapter of Debtors Anonymous, a 12-step program, meets at Biltmore United Methodist Church, 376 Hendersonville Road.

Underearners Anonymous meets at 8pm. Info: www. debtorsanonymous.org, underearnersanonymous. org or 704-299-8909.

Events at Pardee Hospital All programs held at the Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville.

Free, but registration is required unless otherwise noted. Info and registration: www.pardeehospital. org or 692-4600.

• WEDNESDAYS, noon1:30pm & 5:30-7pm - Vet Center Out Station, a support group for veterans.

Registration not required.

• MONDAYS, 2-3pm - “It Works,” a 12-step program for individuals struggling to overcome food addiction.

Registration not required.

Info: 489-7259.

• WE (12/21), 1-3pm Myasthenia gravis support group. Registration not required.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous • THURSDAYS, 6:30pm - Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous will meet at Biltmore United Methodist Church, 376 Hendersonville Road, Asheville. Info: 989-3227.

Grief Support Groups • CarePartners’ bereavement support services are available to anyone who has suffered a loss through death. Weekly grief support groups, a relaxation group, a Grief Choir, Yoga for Grievers and one-on-one counseling available. Donations accepted. Info: kcaldwell@ carepartners.org or 2510126.

Magnetic Minds • WEDNESDAYS, 7pm9pm - A meeting of Magnetic Minds, the local chapter of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, provides support, information and advocacy for those with mood disorders. Friends and family welcome. Held at 1314F Patton Ave. Info: 318-9179.

Marshall Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting • FRIDAYS, 8pm - AA meeting at Marshall Presbyterian Church, 165 South Main St. Info: soletpj@gmail.com.

Overcomers Recovery Support Group

A Christian-based, 12step recovery program.

Provides a spiritual plan of recovery for people struggling with life-controlling problems. Meetings are held at S.O.S. Anglican Mission, 370 N. Louisiana Ave., Suite C-1. All are welcome. Info: rchovey@ sos.spc-asheville.org or 575-2003.

• MONDAYS, 6pm - A support group for men.

• TUESDAYS, 7pm - A support group for women.

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 otherwise noted.

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

Sexaholics Anonymous • DAILY - A 12-step fellowship of men and women recovering from compulsive patterns of lust, romance, destructive relationships, sexual thoughts or sexual behavior. Daily Asheville meetings. Call confidential voicemail 237-1332 or e-mail saasheville@gmail. com. Info: www.orgsites. com/nc/saasheville SLAA (Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous) • SATURDAYS, 10-11am Do you want to stop living out a destructive pattern of sex and love addiction over which you are personally powerless? This 12-stepbased recovery program meets at 20 Oak St. Info: www.slaafws.org or ashevilleslaa@gmail.com.

Thursday Women’s Al-Anon • THURSDAYS, 6pm - Held at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3020 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville. Newcomers welcome.

WNC Brain Tumor Support Welcomes family as well as the newly diagnosed and longer-term survivors.

Info: www.wncbraintumor. org or 691-2559.

• 3rd THURSDAYS, 6:158pm - WNC Brain Tumor Support Group will meet at MAHEC Biltmore Campus, 121 Hendersonville Road, Asheville.

Wellness Are You Trying To Force Yourself To Change? (pd.) Emotional Brain Training (EBT) is a structured program that addresses the Emotional Root Cause of using Food, Alcohol/Drugs, Overspending, Overworking to feel pleasure, numb out, and/or comfort and soothe ourselves. • Create a healthy lifestyle that promotes self compassion, brain health and grounded joy. Call 231-2107 or empowering.solutions@ yahoo.com or visit website: www.ebt.org The REAL Center (pd.) Offers life-changing skills including Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Radical Honesty, and Somatic Awareness.

Learn to stay centered in any situation, be flexible without being submissive, and more. $120/8-session class in Asheville with Steve Torma, 828-2545613. http://www.theREALcenter.org Asheville Tantra School Located at 2 Westwood Place, inside the Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism building. $10-15 per hour with sliding scale available for some classes. Info: www.

AshevilleTantra.com.

• SU (12/18), 10am5pm - Level two medical Qigong.

Building Better Balance Screnning • WE (12/14), 4-8pm -The WNC Fall Prevention Coalition will offer free balance screenings at the First Baptist Church of Asheville’s Sherman Room, 5 Oak St. Screenings will take 10 minutes and include a list of community resources.

Info: http://bit.ly/hHGg58.

Chiropractic Screenings • WE (12/14), 9am-noon - Free spinal screenings

by Fairview Chiropractic Center will be offered at Curves Fitness Center, 1334-A Charlotte Highway, Fairview. Complete inoffice visits will be available for a $20 donation to the Fairview Food Bank.

Info: www.fairviewchiropracticcenter.com.

Events at Pardee Hospital All programs held at the Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville.

Free, but registration is required unless otherwise noted. Info and registra-

tion: www.pardeehospital. org or 692-4600.

• MONDAYS & THURSDAYS, 9:30am; WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 3pm - Flu vaccine. $25.

Registration not required.

• WE (12/14), noon-1pm A presentation on cervical disc arthroplasty.

• Free blood pressure screenings will be offered throughout the week. Call for times. Appointment not required.

• TUESDAYS, 5:306:30pm - TOPS: Take Off Pounds Sensibly weight-loss support group.

Registration not required.

• TU (12/20), 9-11am Hearing screening. Free.

Free Health Consultations • TUESDAYS, 1-6pm - The Faith Community Nurse will be at SOS Anglican Mission, 370 N. Louisiana Ave. Suite C-1, to discuss health concerns, assist with resources, provide free blood pressure screenings, pray with the public or “just spend time together.” Coffee and refreshments provided.

Info: 768-0199.

High Intensity Laser Therapy Demonstration • TH (12/15), 5-6pm - A demonstration of High Intensity Laser Therapy will be held at Kuic Chiropractic, 2 Fairview Hills, Fairview. Receive a free $50 gift certificate.

Info and registration: 6287800.

Nutrition 101 • MONDAYS, 5:15-6:15pm - This weekly course covers the fundamentals of nutrition. Topics include eating healthy on a budget, smart food choices wherever you are and what the food industry is not telling you. Held at Blitmore Premier Fitness, 711 Biltmore Ave. $7. Info: www.purelivingstrengthandnutrition.com or 617407-5261.

Sound Healing Concert • SU (12/18), noon-1pm - Linda Go vocalizes with Billy Zanski on gongs, chakra bowls, kora and melodic percussion at Skinny Beats Drum Shop, 4 Eagle St. Vibrational healing for all. Info: 7763786.

Helping those in need is beautiful.

The Water Lily Organic Salon is proud to sponsor:

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” A Coat Drive for local families “Where Beauty Comes Naturally” Authentic Beauty LLC presents

Asheville’s Own Organic Salon and More!

Please bring clean, gently used or new coats to:

The Water Lily Organic Salon 7 Beaverdam Rd • Asheville

December 7-December 28 All coats will be donated to Haywood Street Clothing Closet

(Haywood Congregation where families in need can go for free clothing)

For more information, please contact Gini, 505-3288 or info @waterlilysalon.com

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 • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 23

DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

edgymama

parenting from the edge by Anne Fitten Glenn

Holiday gifts for kids I’m looking at a very festive decorated tree in my house that doesn’t have a single wrapped gift underneath it. My kids are not impressed.

In an effort to get organized for the holidays, I’ve come up with some local gift ideas for kids.

Here are a few items I think may be worth giving: Give experiences instead of things. Someone said this to me recently and it resonated. My boy probably doesn’t remember what he got for Christmas last year, but he does remember going to the beach with his extended family — an annual gift from my parents. Fun local adventures worth gifting include taking the kids on a

zip-line adventure (Navitat, Asheville Canopy Adventures), going skiing at Cataloochee or Wolf Laurel ski resorts, or planning a summer rafting trip (Nantahala Outdoor Center). As a parent, giving an experience to your kids that requires you to be engaged and participate can be particularly memorable (think Christmas Vacation).

Give health. Explaining to your kids that the co-pay on their doctors’ visits is indeed quite a gift may not go over well, but you can surreptitiously give the gift of health through activities that promote wellness. In addition to their longrunning swim classes, the Asheville YWCA now offers other kid fitness classes, such as yoga,

parentingcalendar calEndaR FoR dEcEmbER 14 - 22, 2011 Affordable Family Fun! • Sweet tee mini golf (pd.) Biltmore Square Mall. Free Toddler Play Area, Free Events Weekly, Game Area. • Like Us on Facebook get event updates. • Booking parties now! www.

SweetTeeMiniGolf.com events at Pardee Hospital All programs held at the Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville. Free, but registration is required unless otherwise noted. Info and registration: www.pardeehospital.org or 692-4600.

• TH (12/15), 6:30-8pm - “The Art of Breastfeeding.”

—- 6:30-8pm - “Daddy Duty” for expectant fathers.

Parenting classes at Pardee Hospital

All classes are held in the orientation classroom of Pardee Hospital, 800 N. Justice St., in Hendersonville.

Free, but registration is required. Info: (866)-790-WELL. • TH (12/22), 6:30-8pm - Infant care class. Free.

moRE PaREntIng EvEnts onlInE

Zumba, diving and swim club. Call 254-7206 for more information. And yes, gifts that make exercise fun, such as bikes, roller skates, and pogo sticks, offer the double bonus of wellness and getting the kids out of the house.

Give books. Yes, they’ve become quaint in this day of Kindles and Nooks and e-books, but locally owned book shops Spellbound, Accent on Books and Malaprop’s all have excellent children and young adult book selections.

Spellbound Children’s Bookshop will be open until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays until Dec. 23. Plus there’s something about turning pages.

I’m sure it’s helpful for brain development.

Give coupons. Good for one mental health (aka Ferris Bueller) day. Good for one night of not doing the dishes. Good for one extra hour of screen time. You get the idea. My kids love pulling out the coupons. They’re almost better than Legos.

Give an otter. Or at least adopt one from The WNC Nature Center. What’s not to love about adopting a wild critter, paying for a portion (or all) of its care, but not having to actually feed it and clean up its poop? You can also give an annual membership to the Nature Center so

your kids can visit their otter any time. Visit wildwnc.org for details.

Give to others. I know it’s a cliché, but charitable giving (both of time and money) makes people happy. And not just those on the receiving end of things. The Asheville Humane Society offers opportunities for kids to help in their animal shelter. Food kitchens are another (mature) child friendly option. Asheville GreenWorks has volunteer trash cleanup and planting days.

My daughter regularly helps her grandfather deliver HomeFree Bagels, and now she knows more folks in the Asheville restaurant business than I do. Delivery days with her grandpa are one of those experiences she’s likely to always treasure. X

more Anne Fitten “Edgy Mama” Glenn writes about a number of subjects, including parenting, at www.edgymama.com.

Check out the Parenting Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after December 22.

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

Authentic Beauty LLC presents

A gift from us to you.

Offering 50% Off facials, when booked the same day as any hair appointment.

Now until December 31st.

Introducing J Monet Skin Care our new Ayurvedic facial line

Let us nourish you this holiday season at The Water Lily

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828.505.3288 • 7 beaverdam road, asheville, nc mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 5

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food

the main dish

Let it grow

Asheville Fresh provides home-grown herbs, opportunities

by Mackensy lunsford I’m standing in an urban oasis. Under bright grow lights, Thai, Genovese and Italian sweet basil grow surprisingly big and almost impossibly green. The low trickle of the hydroponic system lightly gurgles, while strains of classical music infuse the room with tranquility.

In one corner sits Dr. Robert A. Sweeney, also known as Dr. Bob (he has a doctorate in water resources), tinkering on a computer. Nearby, his wife, Phyllis Sweeney, surveys tiny herb starts, just days from seed.

On the other side of the room, Bill Keen sits at a table, wetting the tip of a pencil in a glass of water. He dips it into a small pile of basil seeds, then places the seeds gently into holes in a sheet of rock wool. There they will sprout before being transferred to floating islands in the hydroponic “lakes,” their roots dipping into nutrient-enhanced water. Keen’s attention to detail is notable — the seeds must always be planted in groups of three, not two, not four — and he makes absolutely sure. Keen is friendly, chatty and meticulous. Keen also has an intellectual disability.

This urban hydroponic farm is Fresh, a project of Liberty Corner Enterprises. LCE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities reach goals that many of us take for granted — living, working and playing in regular homes, jobs and neighborhoods with minimal assisted living. This particular project of LCE carries the added benefit of producing beautiful, locally grown, organic culinary herbs, and is certified by the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project as an urban farm.

Fresh is located in the LCE Center on Coxe Avenue, a jungle-warm room built into an otherwise rather unremarkable complex. LCE has provided supportive employment for people with varying disabilities for 25 years, Phyllis says. Some of the disabilities that clients have are physical (one man currently employed at Fresh is deaf), and some have intellectual disabilities. Some employees, she says, have both. “[LCE has] been known over the years as the place that takes the hardest-to-place people, the people that can’t find jobs in the community elsewhere because their disabilities hinder their ability to be successful in the general workplace,” she says.

Green growing: Job coach Ricardo Maroni feeds oregano. Photos by Bill Rhodes

Seeds of change 29 Broadway Street Downtown Asheville, NC

ashevillesazerac.com

Keen, one of Fresh’s employees, is outgoing and barely able to contain his enthusiasm for the project. “It’s excellent,” he says. “I’ve been planting lots of seed flats, watering and wiring light fixtures and putting up fly tape. I’ve also been feeding the plants,” he says excitedly. He talks about what plants need: water, air, light

6 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Solution-oriented: Phyllis Sweeney adds nutrients to feed Fresh’s growing herbs.

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Pipe dream: Dr. Robert Sweeney, aka Dr. Bob, displays a PVC pipe bursting with herb seedlings. and nutrients. “Like us!”

Keen enjoys working with the herbs, feeding them, watching the seeds he plants grow tall and healthy. “I love it. I like doing it,” he says.

But, according to Keen, the electrical work he’s learned to do with Fresh, the meticulous wiring of the grow lights, is especially gratifying. “But I like everything about hydroponics,” he says. “I like working with people, communicating, just my job in general and earning money.”

The real value in his work seems to be in watching his contributions bear fruit. “It feels great. I have a great feeling in myself when I get to see these little tiny seeds become these big beautiful plants like these — see how beautiful they are?” he asks, gesturing toward the rows

of verdant culinary herbs in various stages of growth. “This is like a jungle of plants we’ve got here.”

This spring, Keen had to decide between filling his days with leisure activities like heading to the mall or the movies with his caseworker, or attending a vocational rehab program like Fresh. His choice speaks volumes, says the director of operations for LCE, Jenny Reggi. “He only has so many hours of support of each week, and he’s elected to use those hours for work.”

And it’s satisfying work, Phyllis adds. “The whole purpose of [Fresh] was to have an inhouse place to employ people with disabilities and make it worthwhile, not just have them sitting around shredding paper and putting

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mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 7

stamps on envelopes,” she says. “They’re growing something they can see, something beautiful, nurturing. It’s very exciting for them, and for us, to see them take ownership. It gives them such a great feeling of accomplishment and selfworth.”

Feel-good food Fresh’s work with an under-served portion of the community has not gone unnoticed — nor has the quality of its product.

Representatives from Greenlife (the WholeFoods owned grocer), have taken interest in the herb company, says Dr. Bob. Fresh could soon become the primary herb supplier for the natural-foods grocery. The French Broad Food Co-op is already a client, as are a number of other local restaurants. “We’re a small operation and we cannot supply herbs for the world,” says Phyllis.

“We’re trying to get into area restaurants that value fresh, local and organic — and we have a few of those, don’t we?”

Fresh, says Dr. Bob, offers an off-season choice for markets that want to provide local produce. “Right now, some of these markets are getting their product from Mexico, Columbia, Hawaii, Florida — it takes time to mosey those things over here.”

What’s more, when dealing with foreign markets, there’s the question of which pesticides are being used as well as potential contaminants.

Fresh herbs, particularly basil, have been associated in the past with various food-borne illnesses and microbial contaminants like salmonella.

Hydroponic farming reduces harmful

microbes that are more likely to thrive in soil.

Also, if you’re not using soil to grow, you don’t need herbicides and traditional fertilizers. And pest control at Fresh comes in the form of brightyellow sticky squares hung over the plants that trap the occasional flying insect. The small amount of space a hydroponic system requires (and the flexibility of location) is an agricultural benefit that urban farmers, often growing in nontraditional spaces, can really get behind.

Although Fresh uses all organic seeds and organic growing methods, as a hydroponic garden it can’t be “officially” certified organic.

“Unfortunately, there’s no agency that will certify a hydroponic garden,” says Dr. Bob. “But we can say — truthfully — that this is organically grown.” The Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project has also certified Fresh as an Appalachian Grown farm.

Hop to it Phyllis rubs her index finger and thumb over a leaf of bright green basil with serrated edges. It’s Thai holy basil, she says, and it has medicinal properties. “For respiratory illnesses, for kidney stones and if you chew 12 leaves a day, it will solve your stress problems. Isn’t that great?”

The duo is working to begin growing another plant known to relieve stress: hops. But conditions that are ideal for Genovese basil, for example, are not necessarily appropriate for the common beer-brewing ingredient.

“Hops grow very tall and they need a season of cold,” says Phyllis. “As you can tell, we

Keen to work: Bill Keen adds nutrients to basil plants. Photo courtesy of Liberty Corner Enterprises. keep it pretty warm in here, between 75 and 79 [degrees].” However, the grow-room’s location, within walking distance of three craft breweries (Green Man, Asheville Brewing Company and Craggie), makes accommodating the special needs of the bitter climbing plant an attractive prospect. With the assistance of various family members, the Sweeneys built a walk-in cooler out of oriented strand board and high-density insulation, equipped with a window air conditioner “fooled” into refrigerating the small room with the assistance of a CoolBot, an electric convertor that programs household AC units to operate at low temperatures.

Fresh will receive their first hop seedlings in March, which will be trellised to the walls as they grow (hops can reach a height of 25 to 30 feet in their first year). Several breweries have shown interest in the plants, says Dr. Bob. “Mrs. Oscar Wong wants us to culture hops so that Highland [Brewing Company] can put them outside of their tasting room for show and tell,” he says. “But we’ll also be working with them to supply their hops. We won’t be able to supply all of their needs, but we’ll provide some, and give the people engaged [in the program] some experience doing that.”

That particularly benefits the Vocational

8 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Rehabilitation Services clients that Fresh employs, says Dr. Bob. “Some of the people in that program who are going to graduate and go into the regular industry, they could very well go into hop farming or something related,” he says. “It’s a good experience for them.”

The Sweeneys are currently growing tabletop flowers for restaurants and are considering growing tomatoes as well, with some reservations. “We don’t want to compete with local farms, so we’re growing more or less specialized [items] that they don’t produce,” says Dr. Bob. “We will generate plants that are not available locally from the late fall to the springtime, but during the growing season, we’ll back off.”

Further expansion of the program into different fields will offer more opportunities for the people employed by Fresh to interact with the community, says Reggi. “Ultimately, they’ll be a part of the entire process, not just the seeding but the delivery, too. Those community connections are what we’re all about, and this project just exemplifies that. It’s not just being here and growing, but also moving forward into the community.” X Mackensy Lunsford can be reached at food@ mountainx.com.

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 9

smallbites

food@mountainx.com

yes, soup for you!

by Mackensy lunsford 5 Years Running!

2011

Winter officially begins on Dec. 21, bringing with it the unofficial start of the cold and flu season — which also means soup season.

Xpress wants to know: Do you have a sick-day soup plan? We’ve provided info on several services and eateries that offer soothing, warming, fludefeating soup.

Stuck at home?

Valet Gourmet is at your beck and call seven days a week. The Ashevillebased delivery service brings soup (and other good things to eat) straight to your door from a wide array of local restaurants, including the following (note that the service requires a minimum order of $10, before tax and gratuity, for delivery).

Suwana’s Thai Orchid offers wonton soup, tom yum and a rich, spicy tom kha.

Vinnie’s Italian restaurant has a classic pasta fazool.

Artisan catering and Deli always has soup available on the daily menu. Call 252-1221 to ask about the variety of the day.

Asian Grill and china Buffet both offer egg drop, hot and sour, wonton and miso soups.

Kanpai Sushi-Thai offers osumashi, miso, tom yum, tom kha and usually pho.

Ichiban offers a tempura udon, miso, seafood soup and yu tofu.

Fiore’s ristorante Toscana offers a Tuscan formaggio and a soup of the day. Call 252-1221 to find out what it is.

Tomato cocina latina offers chicken, shrimp, “seven sea” and vegetable soups, all served with rice or housemade tortillas.

Want more? Visit valetgourmet.com for the full list of restaurants Valet Gourmet will deliver from, menus and to set up delivery.

0 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Open up and say ahhh: Mary Kelley tastes some of the goods that Swallow Soup offers.

Swallow this For home delivery, we recommend checking out Swallow Soup, a seasonal local soup-delivery service. The service is run by Mary Kelley, a local mother and entrepreneur who wanted to start a business that allowed her to spend the summertime with her kids — pretty crafty, no?

Kelley makes vegan and vegetarian creations with as many local ingredients as possible, like any good Asheville food entrepreneur should.

And, should you think vegetarian soup equals weak soup, think again.

Recent selections include a rich fontina with cream, garlic and marsala wine; a pumpkin-black bean chili and a creamy tomato-coconut bisque.

Though the soup requires advance ordering, it arrives chilled and in containers perfect for freezing as-is, to prepare for times when getting out of bed and going to the store seem impossible. “I had a woman do that when we ran butternut squash soup,” says Kelley. “She ordered four.”

Soup orders are delivered weekly on Tuesdays — you can even get a monthly “soupscription,” either for yourself or as an unusual gift for the holidays. Think of it as cold or flu insurance, Kelley suggests. Swallow Soup currently offers a special deal of a month of soup for $40. For more information about the service, visit swallowsoup.com.

Hot stuff: The Crêperie features a daily variety of housemade soups to warm your heart and hands.

Food for a crêpe-y day Crêperie Bouchon has plenty of scratch-made soups available for your coldweather needs. The eatery offers a French onion soup daily, as well as a vegetarian chili. At least two other soups should be on tap on a regular basis, says managing partner Craig Peters. For lunch on the fly, consider the 12ounce soups the crêperie offers, served with slices of fresh-baked City Bakery baguette for $6 (including tax). “It’s the perfect meal-size portion that you can grab quickly and get back to work,” Peters says.

The crêperie has gone into winter mode, says Peters, which means the restaurant will only be open during the day until springtime, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., seven days a week. The crêperie will be closed during the evening all winter for various private parties, and for small improvements the owners want to make to the space (restaurant improvement and special event dining will not happen concurrently, we presume).

Bowl of soul: The Dan Dan Noodle at The Noodle Shop is spicy from Sichuan peppercorns and various chilies.

use your noodle Has it been awhile since you’ve visited The Noodle Shop? Try it again, especially if you have seasonal sinus issues. For that affliction, Xpress prescribes a bowl of the Dan Dan noodle. The Noodle Shop makes a rather brothy version that gets its sinus-tingling spice from a paste laced with Sichuan peppercorns and various chilies with a touch of vinegar for extra kick. The Noodle Shop serves this soup with vegetables, plenty of basil and cilantro and a small jar of chili paste on the side if you require extra oomph. The restaurant also serves a spicy version of chicken noodle soup, and although it aspires to reach the Dan Dan’s medicinal properties, it doesn’t quite get there.

The Noodle Shop is located at 3 SW Pack Square.

For more information, call 250-9898.

D NE D OW E Y AT LL ER CA OP LO &

Th e in Ha th pp e ie Un s iv t P er la se ce

Crêperie Bouchon is located at 62 N. Lexington Ave. in the courtyard behind Bouchon. For more information, visit creperiebouchon.com.

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by Maggie Cramer Though the next growing season may seem far away, our area is still turning out plenty of local goods. Top on the list is local meat, the focus of ASAP’s December Get Local initiative, a project that puts the spotlight on an different seasonal and local product every month.

In the past year, our local-meat landscape has gone through a number of big changes.

One of the most notable is the availability of veal and the quiet effort to change people’s notions of what producing it entails. Alan Lang and Clint and Thomas Shepherd, who own and operate Headwaters Cattle Farm and Headwaters of Poverty Farm respectively, are the only local producers selling veal directly to area retailers. They sold their first product to a regional chef this January, and have since been selling to several other Appalachian Grown partner restaurants. Local meat retailer, The Chop Shop Butchery, has also started carrying Headwaters’ veal (read more about the Chop Shop in the sidebar on pg. 33).

Meat men: Alan Lang and Clint and Thomas Shepherd are putting North Carolina veal on the map. Photo courtesy of ASAP. Alan Lang (Uncle Alan to brothers Clint and Thomas) has raised cattle on the family’s 300-acre Barnardsville farm since the 1970s.

Then-teenagers Clint and Thomas helped their uncle with feeding, vaccinations and other farm chores. About two years ago, in response to area chefs’ ever-growing demand for local food, Clint and Thomas borrowed on that farming experience and started their own enterprise. The duo now raise chickens and ducks for eggs and meat as well as Cornish game hens, heritage turkeys and other poultry at Headwaters of Poverty Farm, named for its location at the source of Poverty Branch waterway.

At the same time, they began thinking of ways Uncle Alan could expand his cattle operation into other areas of revenue. They’ve helped to make local veal become a reality in our region and continue to work for their uncle by handling marketing and delivery of the product — a product different than what may come to mind when you first hear the term “veal.”

“We refer to our veal as ‘French beef’ because of the breed’s origin and because of how they

DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

are raised,” says Lang. The breed he’s referring to is Limousin, a nearly 1,000 year-old French breed known for lean, high-quality meat. The cattle are raised according to a strict set of agricultural standards and quality requirements; Headwaters’ herd is raised without hormones, growth stimulants or antibiotics. The young Limousin run freely with the herd and grow fed on cow’s milk, mountain pastures and spring-fed water.

These standards appeal to downtown restaurant Table’s owner Jacob Sessoms, who goes out of his way to purchase pasture-raised, not caged, veal. Until recently, that veal had to travel a great distance from a cooperative in Canada. Sessoms is delighted to have a local source, he says. “Offering local veal follows our food philosophy much more closely,” he says.

When available from Headwaters, he and his team purchase a half animal, break it down and use nearly every bit. Veal dishes may include steaks or braised short ribs. The chefs have grilled heart — which is surprisingly mild and tender — and served it up with house-made kimchi and Asian pears. They’ve even made veal hot dogs.

butwhere?

Dining out: This year, in addition to Table and the Admiral, Headwaters Cattle Farm has offered veal to chefs at Bouchon, Fiore’s Ristorante Toscana, Cucina 24, the Market Place, Fig Bistro and Posana Café, as well as to Miller Union in Atlanta, Ga. Keep an eye on the constantly changing menus of these local food-supporting restaurants.

Dining in: You can purchase Headwaters’ veal at The Chop Shop Butchery, Asheville’s first whole-animal butcher shop, which carries almost all local, Appalachian Grown-certified meats from farms committed to sustainable, humane and all-natural practices. The shop, which opened this fall, represents another big change on the local-meat landscape.

There, you can find products from Apple Brandy Beef, Three Arrows Farm and Cattle Company, Foothills Family Farms, Bluebird Farm, Which Came First Farm, Busy Bee Farms and East Fork Farm.

Also find Headwaters’ duck eggs by the half-dozen at The Chop Shop, as well as the French Broad Food Co-op and Creperie Bouchon.

The chefs of The Admiral in West Asheville have also gotten creative with Headwaters’ local veal this year, taking a global approach.

They’ve created a veal Milanese, a traditional Italian breaded meat dish; a veal schnitzel with spaetzle, a traditional Austrian breaded meat dish; and spiced it up with Mexican flavors and garnishes like avocado.

Lang and the Shepherd brothers plan to continue offering veal to area restaurants this winter, as well as to the Chop Shop. Both Table and the Admiral expect to incorporate the veal into their menus through the cooler months.

(Because both restaurants’ menus change daily, they were not sure as of press time when or in what preparation.)

Of course, area Appalachian Grown partner restaurants will be serving up many other types of local meat this month, too. Look for everything from local pork to chicken and rabbit to lamb.

For more information about Headwaters Cattle Farm and Headwaters of Poverty Farm, including the meat and egg CSA the farms offer, visit their listing in ASAP’s online Local Food Guide at buyappalachian.org. Thomas can be reached at 6262795 or headwaters@tds.net. Also find Table, the Admiral and other Appalachian Grown restaurants in the online Local Food Guide. And, browse a list of restaurants spotlighting local farm-raised meats this month on the Get Local page of asapconnections.org. X

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SOMEONE’S GOTTA GIVE Perhaps it’s the season that turns our thoughts toward giving — toys for needy children and warm winter coats for the homeless. Or maybe it’s the heartbreak of hard times — food for those who’ve lost their jobs, gifts for the families of those serving our country in Afghanistan or Iraq.

Whatever your motivation, this is an especially good time for giving back, and the Asheville area is rich in ways to do it.

So go traditional: Clean out your closets and donate those old clothes to Goodwill. (Did you know the nonprofit also collects such items as computers, or that it also focuses heavily on job training?) Or volunteer during one of the many service days organized by United Way. (The organization’s 2-1-1 affilliate service has a website where you can plug in where you live and how much time you can spare — and get a variety of options.)

Then there’s giving, Ashevillestyle: Bring a kid-appropriate gift to Diamond Thieves for a discount on a piercing. Or help Harmony Motors fill two Volkwagens with canned goods for MANNA FoodBank.

Whether you’re looking to share your time and energy or drop some change into the ubiquitous Salvation Army buckets, there’s no shortage of opportunities to serve your community.

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a modest sampling of ways to help your community.

And for a closer look at a local group that gives back to its community yearround, check out food writer Mackensy Lunsford’s article “Let It Grow” elsewhere in this issue.

Food is love: Meals on Wheels volunteers like Helen Rogott Hallstrom deliver food and conversation all year-round to those in need (Eddie Miller, left). Photo by Bill Rhodes.

DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 5

The work that local nonprofits and volunteers do to help stray and abandoned animals is a matter of life and death.

And while there’s no shortage of groups trying to care for these cats and dogs and find them loving new homes, they always need more help, whether it’s financial donations, volunteers to clean litter boxes or families prepared to adopt. Below, we spotlight two groups that are part of the Animal Coalition of Buncombe County, which also includes the Animal Compassion Network and the Humane Alliance.

ASHEVIllE HuMANE SOcIETy

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“Financial donations always help. But one of the things we’re really looking to expand next year is the number of foster families we have to take in animals for the short term. We’re always looking for people to join in the fun here and save more lives.” — Meghan Jordan, development/community relations director.

What they do: Save the lives of homeless animals through adoption; promote the compassionate treatment of animals through education and sheltering. The society also contracts with Buncombe County and the city of Asheville to operate the Buncombe County Animal Shelter.

What they need: Financial donations, business sponsorships, volunteers and foster families.

Wanna help? People interested in fostering a pet should contact Foster Family Coordinator Skye Kroman (skroman@ashevillehumane.org).

Businesses interested in sponsorship programs should contact Meghan Jordan (mjordan@ashevillehumane.org; 761-2001).

Need help? Found a stray? Want to surrender a pet? Call 761-2001 or bring the animal to the Adoption & Education Center (14 Forever Friend Lane in Asheville).

Partners: The Humane Society is a member of the Animal Coalition of

Pet walk: Asheville nonprofits find many ways to help our furry friends, like this holiday fundraising stroll. Photo courtesy of the Asheville Humane Society Buncombe County, which also includes the Animal Compassion Network, Brother Wolf and the Humane Alliance.

BrOTHEr WOlF ANIMAl rEScuE “Around the holidays, more people surrender their animals (because they can’t or won’t make boarding accommodations for them) and more people adopt animals, so they can give the kids a pet for Christmas. With time off from work and school, it’s a good time to acclimate a new family member.”

— Denise Bitz, executive director What they do: Rescue animals from local shelters, strays and those whose owners surrender them, provide needed medical treatment and work to find them loving homes.

What they need: Financial support, volunteers, foster families and permanent new homes for pets. Dog and cat food, treats, toys and blankets for shelter animals during special holiday drive.

Wanna help? The adoption center (31 Glendale Ave. in Asheville) is open seven days a week, including Christmas and New Year’s Day: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, go to bwar.org or call 5053440.

Need help? Found a stray? Want to surrender a pet? Call 505-3440 or bring the animal to the Adoption Center (31 Glendale Ave. in Asheville).

Partners: Brother Wolf is a member of the Animal Coalition of Buncombe County.

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With dozens of groups and literally thousands of volunteers doing the work that, increasingly, public agencies lack the resources to do, we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hope to name them all. And when we asked local groups to name their organizational partners, the story swelled exponentially. (RiverLink, for example, sent us a list of more than 300 partners.) So while we regret having to leave out so many worthwhile projects, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to know that concern for the environment is alive and well in Asheville. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a look at what four local groups are up to.

ENVIrONMENTAl QuAlITy INSTITuTE â&#x20AC;&#x153;These programs connect volunteers with their local natural resources, promote a sense of stewardship and

8 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ mountainx.com

give grownups a good reason to go splash around in a stream. Our most important partners are the volunteers that do the ground work. Without these concerned citizens, water-quality monitoring would be prohibitively expensive.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ann Marie Traylor, project coordinator.

What they do: Enlist volunteers to help monitor local streams; analyze water samples; and make the resulting data available to the community.

Throughout the past 20 years, the data has been used to protect high-quality waters from pollution, track changing water conditions and serve as an early-warning system to water-quality problems. The institute has been operating under the WNC Allianceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s umbrella but expects to become a standalone nonprofit soon.

Sifting the data: The Volunteer Water Information Network collects much-needed data about the good and the bad things in local rivers and streams.

Photo by courtesy of EQI

What they need: Volunteers to collect water samples from local streams each month (the Volunteer Water Information Network) or conduct semiannual biological monitoring (the Stream Monitoring Information Exchange). Training provided.

Wanna help? Contact Ann Marie Traylor (333-0392; email: amt@environmentalqualityinstitute.org).

Need help? Found a problem with your local stream? Call 333-0392.

Affiliates: Metropolitan Sewerage District, Soil and Water Conservation District, city of Asheville, UNCA, WNC Alliance, etc.

rIVErlINK “RiverLink funds greenways and river access points. We hold easements, own Brownfield properties, restore eroded stream banks, educate 5,000 children and empower over 600 volunteers annually. We sponsor the Adopta-Stream and Adopt-a-Greenway programs and teach homeowners how to store and direct storm water through Water RICH and LinkingWaters.”

— Executive Director Karen Cragnolin What they do: Promote the economic and environmental revitalization of the French Broad River corridor. River park and greenway development, French Broad River Paddle Trail, WaterRich program, assorted educational and outreach efforts.

What they need: Volunteers to help with stream cleanups, the Adopta-Stream program, developing the paddle trail, various office tasks and working with school kids.

Wanna help? Contact Dave Russell (252-8474, ext. 11; email: volunteer@ riverlink.org).

Need help? See above.

Partners: Asheville GreenWorks, Asheville Green Opportunitites, the city of Asheville, Buncombe County, Clean Water Management Trust Fund, Western Carolina Paddlers.

ASHEVIllE GrEENWOrKS “We love partnerships: It’s what’s kept us thriving all these years.”

— Executive Director Susan Roderick What they do: Community organizing, education and environmental stewardship via grassroots projects such as tree planting, cleanups, litter/recy-

cling campaigns, creating and maintaining green spaces, playground enhancement and neighborhood beautification.

What they need: Grants, partnerships, donations and volunteers.

Wanna help? Volunteers needed in many capacities: To learn more about the possibilities, visit ashevillegreenworks.org, email volunteer@ashevillegreenworks.org or call 254-1776.

Need help? See above.

Partners: City of Asheville, Buncombe County, Danny’s Dumpster, Curbside Management, Rainbow Recycling, etc.

WNc AllIANcE “Volunteers supply work that the agencies don’t have funding and staff to do. We’re able to fill that in with volunteer scientists and workers.

They’re totally invaluable.” — Staff Ecologist Bob Gale What they do: Work with residents across the region to protect and preserve land, water and air resources through education and public participation in policy decisions at all levels of business and government.

What they need: Grants, partnerships and donations. Volunteers to serve on governing board, committees and task forces; manage six local chapters; monitor streams and wetlands; help control invasive plants, developing paddle trail, etc.

Wanna help? Call 258-8737, or visit wnca.org, choose a program area, then contact the appropriate leader.

Need help? See above.

Partners: Americorps Project Conserve, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Community Foundation of WNC, Environmental Quality Institute, National Forests of North Carolina, National Park Service, Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wild South.

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 9

THE SIMPlE THINGS

Too many people in the Asheville area and across Western North Carolina lack jobs, a home or even food to eat (the Asheville metro area is the seventh-hardest-hit in the country in terms of hunger). And of course, the needs become particularly acute in winter.

Thankfully, many local nonprofits are working to address these problems.

Here are some starting points for how you can help provide food and shelter to those who need it, or get help yourself.

ASHEVIllE HOuSING AuTHOrITy “The Housing Authority’s mission is to continue to provide affordable, decent, safe and sanitary housing ... to low and moderate-income persons; to eliminate blighted areas and preserve the housing stock; ... and to seek funding sources [for] families and individuals that cannot be served under present federal programs.”

— mission statement.

0 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

What they do: Own and operate 1,500 public-housing units in 10 developments throughout Asheville; provide vouchers for more than 1,350 units of private rental housing.

What they need: Donations of “stocking stuffer” items (apples, oranges, candy canes, assorted holiday treats, 2012 calendars, etc.) to fill gift bags for Woodfin Apartments residents. Donations can be dropped off at the Housing Authority offices (165 S. French Broad Ave. in Asheville).

Wanna help? Call 257-2653.

Need help? Go to 165 S. French Broad Ave. Mon. through Thurs., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and fill out an application.

Partners: Buncombe County Department of Social Services, city of Asheville, United Way.

MANNA FOODBANK “There’s dozens of things happening, people doing food drives all over the community. We help coordinate that, especially the main initiative we do, which is the Ingles Giving Tree.

Gifts galore: It’s toy time, but Salvation Army volunteers like these also gather and distribute the basic necessities.

Photo by Bill Rhodes.

People can also come by and volunteer at any time.” — Joshua Stack, communications director.

What they do: Link the food industry with 231 partner agencies in 16 WNC counties.

What they need: Donations of food (at the Ingles Giving Tree barrels in all Ingles stores or at the Giving Tree in the Asheville Mall). Volunteers at MANNA’s Asheville facility (627 Swannanoa River Road). Ingles has also promised to match up to $25,000 in donations to MANNA through Dec. 25.

Wanna help? For more information, call 299-3663 or visit mannafoodbank. org.

Need help? MANNA doesn’t usually provide services directly; instead, it distributes food to partner organizations. To learn how to receive food from one of those agencies, call 211 or 252-4357.

money.

Partners: ABCCM, Asheville Housing Authority, Helpmate, many local churches, Just Economics, local homeless shelters, the ARC of Buncombe County, I Have A Dream Foundation, etc.

Need help? Visit the Asheville Center of Hope (204 Haywood St.) or call the above number.

MEAlS ON WHEElS OF ASHEVIllE & BuNcOMBE cOuNTy

HOMEWArD BOuND

What they do: Provide warm meals, gifts and other goods to the homebound elderly.

What they need: Shoebox-size gifts or small gift bags, personal-care items, socks, slippers. Volunteers to deal with the increased demand during the holidays.

Wanna help? Check the website (mowabc.org), call 253-5286 or drop by the Asheville office (146 Victoria Road).

Need help? Call 253-5286 and they’ll send a caseworker with an application. If approved, service will begin within 48 hours.

Partners: Buncombe County Department of Social Services, Mission Hospital, Blue Ridge Group Homes, CarePartners.

SAlVATION ArMy OF ASHEVIllE

What they do: Diverse projects include homeless shelters, youth programs, transitional housing, addiction rehabilitation and more.

What they need: Volunteers to support their Angel Trees at the Asheville Mall during business hours, through Dec. 16. Volunteers to help prepare, serve and clean up after lunch and dinner on Christmas Day. Donations of vehicles, furniture, clothing and

“[Our] mission is working with others to end the cycle of homelessness.

Through demonstrated commitment to collaborating with other community agencies and partners, Homeward Bound makes a sustainable impact on homelessness in Asheville every day.”

— mission statement,

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What they do: Run the A HOPE Day Center, PATH outreach team for homeless mentally ill people, Room in the Inn mobile women’s shelter, Hope to Home support program and Pathways to Permanent Housing initiative.

What they need: Volunteers, financial support, donations of food, towels, toiletries and more.

Wanna help? Go to hbofa.org or call 258-1695.

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Partners: United Way, Mission Hospital, HomeTrust Bank, Community Foundation of WNC.

uNITED WAy OF ASHEVIllE AND BuNcOMBE cOuNTy “Our Vision: A strong, caring community. Our Mission: To strengthen our community by helping people improve their lives and care for one another.”

— United Way website, What they do: Coordinate the activities of a wide array of partner agencies to help in the areas of education, health and income.

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“The Salvation Army of Asheville administers many programs and services designed to restore broken lives, build healthy relationships, and develop and encourage people of all ages. We are more than just the bellringers you see at Christmas or the family stores you see around town.”

— from the group’s website,

Partners: United Way, Boys and Girls Club of Buncombe County, MANNA FoodBank.

Beginning Saturday, Dec. 17

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“We want to keep someone happy in their own home as long as possible.

You can feed a senior for a year for less than one day’s cost of staying in the hospital. It’s really important to keep our seniors cared for, safe at home and connected with the world.”

— Executive Director Dianne Trammel

Wanna help? For more information, check the website (salvationarmycarolinas.org/commands/asheville) or call 253-4723.

What they need: The organization’s Hands On Asheville-Buncombe initiative links willing hearts and hands with dozens of local opportunities for holiday volunteering or donations.

Wanna help? Go to handsonasheville.org/hoab_holiday or call 255-0696.

Need help? Dial 211 for a list of United Way and partner-agency initiatives available to help those in need.

Partners: Salvation Army, ABCCM, WNCAP, Meals on Wheels and many other local nonprofits and government agencies.

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BAcK TO WOrK

As the brunt of the economic downturn continues to be felt throughout theWestern North Carolina, several agencies focus on training, job placement or financial assistance. Here are a few that help folks in need get back on their feet — and back to work.

What they need: Financial support; bring cash or check to Liberty Corner Enterprises, 147 Coxe Ave. in Asheville. Website (libertycornerent. com) is under development and will support online donations early next year.

ASHEVIllE FrESH

Wanna help? Now accepting applications for various volunteer and paid positions. To buy fresh, organic herbs, call 254-9917, ext. 311. Delivery within downtown Asheville (will go farther for large orders).

“Most hydroponics programs, such as the one at the EPCOT Center in Orlando, are highly automated and involve few people. Asheville Fresh is low-tech and employs many people.

We also engaged the folk whom we serve in constructing most of our equipment.” — Hydroponics Manager Robert Sweeney.

What they do: Employ people with disabilities to help grow, harvest and deliver organic, hydroponic culinary herbs to individuals, restaurants and natural grocery stores. It’s a project of Liberty Corner Enterprises, a nonprofit providing job placements and other services to help people with disabilities live a normal life with minimal assistance. (See “Let It Grow,” p. 26.)

DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Need help? Call Liberty Corner Enterprises at 254-9917.

Partners: Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, N.C. Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Ingles, Home Depot.

GOODWIll INDuSTrIES “Many people recognize Goodwill from our donation centers and our stores, but far fewer understand what the impact is on the community

clean-up crew: Volunteers like these help clean things up. Local nonprofits also partner with jobtraining groups, such as Asheville GO! Photo courtesy of Asheville GreenWorks. when they give to Goodwill or shop at our stores. The revenue from our stores underwrites training programs targeting unemployed or underemployed individuals who are looking for work.” — Jaymie Eichorn, vice president, marketing and communications.

What they do: Operate retail stores, provide job training and collaborate with other community organizations, helping thousands of North Carolinians each year.

What they need: Clothing, shoes, small furniture, jewelry, books and electrical items (radios, clocks, computers/printers, etc.).

Wanna help? Multiple locations throughout Western North Carolina.

For information, call 828-252-7680 or go to goodwillnwnc.org.

Need help? Visit Goodwillâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asheville Career Connections Center (1616 Patton Ave., open Mon. through Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). No appointment needed. For more information, go to goodwillnwnc.org/trainingCenters. cfm or call 828-298-9023.

Partners: JobLink, Buncombe County government, MANNA FoodBank, Least of These Ministries.

Special Recognition: Business Advisory Council Chair Scott McLean.

ASHEVIllE GrEEN OPPOrTuNITIES What they do: Empower lowincome Asheville neighborhoods by training residents for jobs in the environmental sector.

What they need: Grants, partnerships, donations. Donations can be made online (greenopportunities.org) or by mail (Green Opportunities, 133 Livingston St., Asheville, NC 28801).

Wanna help? Host an Asheville GO apprentice (full or part time) for 20 weeks and provide on-the-job training; become a GO business sponsor with financial or in-kind contributions; become a project partner by designing and implementing project-based training experiences for Asheville GO members. Partners and sponsors get various benefits.

Need help? Applications accepted from low-income, unemployed young adults ages 16-24. For more information and an application, go to greenopportunities.org/programs/go-training-team.

Partners: ABCCM (Pathways to Green Jobs program); Asheville Housing Authority (recruits, trains and places 18 public-housing residents in jobs weatherizing public-housing units).

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WNcAP’S cHIlDrEN’S WISH lIST “This is for low-income clients — kids who live with HIV and AIDS — and it would make them really happy.”

— Executive Director Jeff Bachar.

What they do: Special holiday service provides gifts for clients’ children and grandchildren (newborn through age 18) who are living with or directly affected by HIV or AIDS. What they need: Depends on what’s requested: ranges from items such as clothes, dolls and gift cards to “no specific request.”

Wanna help? Visit the WNCAP website (wncap.org) and click on the Children’s Wish List page. Pick a child to help, then follow the instructions.

Need help? WNCAP accepts clients who are HIV-positive; often they’re also low-income. To learn more, go to wncap.org, call 252-7489 and schedule a meeting.

Partners: Loving Food Resources, WNC Community Health Services, Youth OUTright.

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WOMEN AT rISK “We believe in treating women with respect and dignity and offering people new choices, ways to change their circumstances. We don’t believe in punishment; we believe in helping a woman come to her potential.”

— Casey Schoenauer, case manager.

What they do: Provide group therapy, substance-abuse treatment, court advocacy, case management and adolescent services for women

christmas spirit: From free Christmas trees to emergency services, organizations like the United Way of Asheville lend a helping hand. Photo by Bill Rhodes.

just out of custody.

What they need: Financial support, feminine-hygiene products, donations for mothers’ gift bags for mothers.

Wanna help? Volunteers for weekly Wednesday client lunch are welcome.

Need help? For more information, go to wccj.org/womenatrisk.html or call 252-2485.

Partners: United Way.

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Volunteers are the lifeblood of pretty much every group featured in these pages. Every effort helps, but here are a few notable local volunteer heroes.

TJ HOOPEr His family agreed to have a French Broad River Paddle Trail campsite constructed on their property; Hooper volunteered to help build the site and put-in. “I hope to inspire other landowners, so I can do the same thing farther down the river that we’re allowing people to do on our property.”

Where he volunteers: WNC Alliance.

Where she volunteers: Asheville Humane Society.

What inspires him: Paddling the French Broad River with friends and family.

What inspires her: “I worked for the state of Louisiana for 33 years and received many plaques and awards along the way. I’ve never put any of them up on the wall, but the one I got as the Humane Society’s volunteer of the year is up on my wall now. I’m as proud of that as of anything I’ve ever done, and it showed the staff’s appreciation of me.”

lAurA PEASE “I retired a few years ago, and my husband and I moved up from Louisiana to North Carolina. I’m a big animal lover: I have dogs, a rabbit, two birds, and l always said if I volunteered anywhere after I retired, it would be something to do with animals.”

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Tips for getting involved: “A lot of people think volunteers just go in and play with the animals, that sort of thing. But where we’re really needed is what you call ‘dirty work.’ And because the facility is so nice and they’ve really got good procedures and everybody has a good attitude, it’s really not nasty. You get used to that if you’ve dealt with animals. It’s not really exciting to clean out a litter box, but that’s a way I can help the animals. I enjoy going.”

cArOl HAlSTrOM “I recognized that both hard work and a great deal of good luck contributed to my ability to achieve what I have in my lifetime. As the daughter of immigrants, I was particularly sensitized to the opportunities available to me.”

Payback: TJ Hooper, left photo, and Laura Pease, right, volunteer to do what some might call the dirty work.

Photos courtesy of WNCA and the Asheville Humane Society.

Where she volunteers: Care Partners, Meals on Wheels, Mountain Area Interfaith Forum, Building Bridges, Nuestro Centro What inspires her: “The recognition of the opportunities that I’ve had, the recognition of the role of volunteers has always made clear to me that I, too, have a responsibility in building what, in my SNCC years, we truly did believe was the potential for a beloved community. It takes us all to achieve that or ever hope to achieve that.”

Tips for getting involved: “Get off the couch. A lot of people talk endlessly about volunteering, about how they’re outraged about the way immigrants are treated or the fact racism still exists in this country. Whatever you believe is where injustice resides, call the local United Way.” Halstrom also invites people to email her at crhesq@gmail.com.

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holidaycalendar Holiday Happenings

will feature the Goldstein Family Band.

Service is free. $12/$6 children for dinner. Info and reservations: 253-4911.

Daily Hanukkah Candle Lighting • TU (12/20) through TU (12/27), 5pm - Hanukkah candles will be lit daily at the Asheville Jewish Community Center, 236 Charlotte St., except on Dec. 24, 25 and 26. Sing-a-long will follow. Info: fred@jcc-asheville.org.

Deck the Trees • Through MO (1/2) - “Deck the Trees” will feature Christmas trees decorated by local businesses and nonprofits.

Trees will be on display at The Monte Vista Hotel, 308 W. State St., Black Mountain. Info: www.themontevistahotel.net, www.exploreblackmountain.com or 669-2300.

Festival of Lights • Through SU (12/18), 6-9pm - The Festival of Lights will feature 50 animated and stationary light displays. $15 per car. 20 percent of proceeds benefit Buncombe County Special Olympics.

Held at Lake Julian Park, 406 Overlook Extension, Arden. Info: david.blynt@ buncombecounty.org or 684-0376.

Flat Rock Playhouse The State Theater of North Carolina is on Highway 225, three miles south of Hendersonville. Info: www.flatrockplayhouse.org or 693-0731.

• Through TH (12/22) - A holiday edition of Plaid Tidings. See website for full schedule.

• Through TH (12/22) - Home for the Holidays. $34. See website for full schedule.

Gingerbread Contest Display • Through SU (1/1) - The winners of the National Gingerbread House Competition will be on display at at the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa, 290 Macon Ave. Guided tours will be offered Wed. through Sun. at 9am and 3pm through Jan. 1. Registration required for tour. Info: www.groveparkinn.com or 800-438-5800.

Hands On! This children’s museum is located at 318 North Main St., Hendersonville.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm.

Admission is $5, with discounts available on certain days. Info: www.handsonwnc.org or 697-8333.

• TH (12/15), 2-4:30pm - Learn about dreidels and traditional Jewish games for Hannukkah. Free with admission or membership.

• TU (12/20), 10:30am - Children 8 years old and up are invited to make a gingerbread house. Registration required. $15/$10 members.

• TH (12/22) & FR (12/23), 10am-5pm - Make a Christmas tree ornament. $5 for supplies.

Hanukkah Party • TH (12/22), 6:30-10pm Congregation Beth Israel, 229 Murdock Ave., will host a Hanukkah party. Info: www.bethisraelnc.org or 252-8431.

Hanukkah Party • TU (12/20), 5pm - The Chabad House will host a Hannukah party, fea-

Ba by St ore

and also:

L of FAM AL

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A “Creepy” Christmas Carol • Through FR (12/23) - A “creepy” version of A Christmas Carol will be performed by Montford Park Players at the Asheville Masonic Temple, 80 Broadway St. Pay-what-we’re-worth night Dec. 15. See website for complete schedule. $12/$10 students/$6 under 18. Info: www.montfordparkplayers.org or 254-5146.

A Swannanoa Solstice • SU (12/18), 2 & 7pm - A Swannanoa Solstice will feature musicians Al Petteway, Amy White and Robin Bullock, along with storytellers and dancers. Held at the Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square. $35/$30 student/$12 children. Info: www.dwtheatre.com or 257-4530.

A Very Merry Christmas • Through TH (12/22) - Flat Rock Playhouse’s YouTheatre presents A Very Merry Christmas. See website for times, locations and dates. Info: www.flatrockplayhouse.org/education.

AnTHM Gallery Located at 110.5 W. State St. in downtown Black Mountain. Info: www. anthmgallery.com.

• Through SA (12/24) - 20 percent off the work of a different artist each day.

Asheville Jewish Community Center Events The JCC is located at 236 Charlotte St., Asheville. Info: 253-0701.

• SA (12/24), 5:30pm - A Hanukkah party for adults will feature Chinese food and a trip to the movies. Held at Oriental Pavillion, 48 Westgate Parkway. Info: judyinasheville@aol.com or 225-3805.

• WE (12/21), 5pm - A performance by temple youth will include dreidel games and candle lighting. Vegetarian/dairy potluck to follow. Info and registration: kate@jcc-asheville.org.

Asheville Symphony Orchestra All concerts are held at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in the Asheville Civic Center. Tickets and info: www.ashevillesymphony.org or 254-7046.

• SU (12/18), 3pm - A holiday pops concert will feature the Asheville Symphony Chorus, the Asheville Symphony Children’s Chorus and guest artist Billy Jonas.

Asheville Tantra School Located at 2 Westwood Place, inside the Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism building. $10-15 per hour with sliding scale available for some classes. Info: www.AshevilleTantra. com.

• FR (12/23), 2-9pm - A holiday aphrodisiac and toy party will feature demos and vendors.

Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular • THURSDAYS through SATURDAYS until (12/17), 7:30pm - The Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular will ask the question “Is Santa actually a

Communist?” Held at The Magnetic Field, 372 Depot St. Additional performances: Mon.-Wed., Dec. 19-21. $14/$12. Info: www.themagneticfield. com or 668-2154.

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. and Fri., 10am-5pm; Thurs. 11am-3pm. Info: www.BlackMountainArts.org or 6690930.

• WE (12/21) & TH (12/22), 7pm - A holiday theater performance will feature Carol Anderson and Jim Shores. Held at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W. State St. $15. Info: www.blackmountainarts.org or 669-0930.

Blue Ridge Ringers • SA (12/17), 4pm - The Blue Ridge Ringers will perform at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on the corner of North Broad Street and Fisher Road in Brevard. Info: blueridgeringers@gmail. com or 692-4910.

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue A no-kill organization. Info: www.bwar. org or 505-3440.

• SU (12/18), noon-4pm - A holiday open house will feature refreshments, activities for kids and gifts for pets and people. Visit www.bwar.org/donate for a list of items to donate.

Caribbean Christmas Exhibit • Through TU (1/31) - Caribbean Christmas, travel photography by Sara Shea, will be on display at Havana Restaurant, 1 Battle Square. Info: www. havanaasheville.com or 252-1611.

Carolina Horse and Carriage Tours • WEEKENDS through (12/24) - Horse and carriage tours will depart from the Hendersonville Visitors Information Center, 201 S. Main St. $25 for two people/$5 additional adults/$3 children under 12/under 4 free. Info: 209-1099.

Carriage Rides • SATURDAYS through (12/17), 6-9pm - Carriage rides will feature costumed characters from A Christmas Carol and Forest City’s holiday lights. Departs from the fountain in downtown Forest City. $7/$3 children. Info: www.forestcityevents.com or 247-4430.

CastleFeast Renaissance Holiday Music • SA (12/17), 11am - A concert of Renaissance music for the holidays will be held at the Fletcher Library, 120 Library Road. Info: smcgough@henderson.lib.nc.us or 697-4725.

Christmas with Cantaria • TH (12/15), 8pm - Cantaria, the gay men’s chorus of Asheville, presents a concert of holiday selections at the Cathedral of All Souls, 9 Swan St., Biltmore Village. $15. Tickets available at Malaprop’s Bookstore or www.

CantariaAsheville.org.

Congregation Beth HaTephila Asheville’s Reform Jewish Temple is located at Liberty and Broad Streets.

Info: www.bethhatephila.org or 2534911.

• FR (12/23), 6:30pm - A Chanukah/ Tzedakah Shabbat service and dinner

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holidaycalendar

Believe in peace: The owners of A Faraway Place have created a beautiful window display at the Battery Park Avenue shop. turing a menorah lighting, walk-in dreidel house, kosher buffet, crafts and music. $18 per family/$5 per person. Held at 660 Merrimon Ave. Info: 505-0746 or www.chabadasheville.org.

Holiday Arts Extravaganza For Kids • TU (12/27) through FR (12/30), 1-4pm -The Asheville Art Museum, 2 Pack Square, will host a Holiday Arts Extravaganza for children grades 1-4. $20/$18 members. Info and registration: eshope@ashevilleart.org or 253-3227.

Holiday Hayride • FRIDAYS through (12/16), 6-9pm - A holiday hayride and tour of downtown Forest City’s holiday lights will depart from the fountain in downtown Forest City. $2. Info: www.forestcityevents.com or 247-4430.

Holiday LaZoom Tour • Through SA (12/31) - LaZoom will host a new holiday tour featuring a snowman, turkey and “Asheville fruit cake.”

See website for dates. Departs from French Broad Food Co-op, 90 Biltmore Ave. $23/$15 ages 13-17/$12 ages 5-12. Info: www.lazoomtours.com or 225-6932.

Holiday Movie Screening • TU (12/20), 5pm - How the Grinch Stole Christmas, starring Jim Carrey, will be screened at the Canton Branch Library, 11 Pennsylvania Ave. Popcorn and drinks provided. Info: 648-2924.

Holiday Music at Mission

• Through FR (12/23) - Guitarists, pianists and gospel choirs will perform in the main lobby of Mission Health’s Memorial campus. Call for full schedule: 213-1210.

Holiday Music in Hendersonville • FR (12/16) & SA (12/17), 1-5pm - Local schools and churches will perform holiday music at Hendersonville’s Historic Courthouse on Main Street. Info: 233-3216.

Holiday Wine, Cheese and Champagne Tasting • TH (12/22), 6pm - A holiday wine, cheese and champagne tasting will be held at Appalachain Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place. Info: www.appalachianvintner.com or 505-7500.

Lighting of the Green • Through TH (12/22), 6-9pm - The Lighting of the Green will feature energyefficient bulbs on historic homes on the A-B Tech campus. Fernihurst Mansion will be open for tours and entertainment on Dec. 16 and 20. Info: http://avl.mx/71.

Macrobiotic Holiday Potluck • SU (12/18), 5:30pm - A macrobiotic holiday potluck will feature a gift exchange and seasonal music. Bring four servings of a vegan dish and include ingredients on an index card. $5. Info and registration: ljstanchich@mindspring.com or 299-8657.

Movie Series • TH (12/15), 10am - Christmas with the Kranks will be screened at

Edneyville Library, 2 Firehouse Road, Hendersonville. Info: 685-0110.

Red Herring Puppets • SA (12/17) & SU (12/18), 2pm - Red Herring Puppets will present the Italian Christmas story La Befana at White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Road. $8. Info: www.whitehorseblackmountain. com.

Music for the Seasons • TH (12/15), 7pm - Enjoy classical and holiday music for soprano, clarinet and piano with Amanda Horton, Fred Lemmons and Daniel Weiser. Presented at First Baptist Church, 63 North Main St., Weaverville. $15 donation. Info: www. brioconcertseries.org.

Rediscovering Christmas • WE (12/21) & TH (12/22), 7pm - Rediscovering Christmas, a holiday theater production by Acts of Renewal, will be presented at the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W. State St. Advance tickets requested. $15. Info: 669-0930.

Santa Paws • SUNDAYS through (12/18), 2-6pm - The Community Pet Center, 578 Laurel Hill Drive in Rutherfordton, invites the public to have a holiday photo taken with their pet. $5 donation per photo. Info: www. forestcityevents.com or 247-4430.

Sapphire Valley Community Center Located on U.S. 64 West. Info: 7437663.

50 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

• TH (12/15), 6-8pm - An evening with Santa and Mrs. Clause will feature hot cocoa, a movie and a Christmas story.

Sleigh Bells Ring • FR (12/16), 2pm - Blissing, a local women’s a capella trio, will perform “Sleigh Bells Ring ... Are You Listening” at Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville. $10. Info: 692-0575.

Smith-McDowell House Museum Period rooms grace this antebellum house on the campus of A-B Tech Community College, 283 Victoria Road.

Info: education@wnchistory.org or 253-9231.

• Through WE (1/4) - The Carolina Christmas Celebration will feature fresh trees and seven decorated period rooms.

Swannanoa Residents’ Holiday Party • TH (12/15), 6:30-9pm - Swannanoa residents are invited to the second annual holiday party, featuring appetizers, beverages and a tasty treat. Held at Eye Scream Parlour, 2064 U.S. Highway 70.

Sponsored by FANS. Info: www.swannanoafans.org.

The 12 Dates of Christmas • WEDNESDAYS through SUNDAYS until (12/18), 7:30pm - The 12 Dates of Christmas, “a one-woman show about how much the holidays suck after your heart’s been crushed.” Recommended for mature audiences. Presented by NC

Stage Company, 15 Stage Lane. Info: www.ncstage.org or 239-0263.

The Hop Ice cream, concerts and community events. 640 Merrimon Ave., Suite 103, unless otherwise noted. www.thehopicecreamcafe.com or 254-2224.

• TU (12/20), 6-7pm - Curtain Call Collective will present a Polar Express pajama party with skits and songs.

The Nutcracker • TH (12/15) through FR (12/16) - The Ballet Conservatory of Asheville presents The Nutcracker at Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 South Pack Square. See website for times. Info: www.dwtheatre.com or 257-4530.

Transylvania Heritage Museum Located at 189 W. Main St., Brevard.

Hours: Wed.-Sat., 10am-5pm. Donation.

Info: www.transylvaniaheritage.org or 884-2347.

• Through SA (12/17) - A Country Christmas exhibit.

Unity Center Events Located at 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills River. Info: www.unitync.net, 684-3798 or 891-8700.

• SA (12/18), 12:45pm - Bring 6-8 servings of a main dish, salad or dessert for a Christmas potluck.

Visit from Santa • SA (12/17), 11am-5pm - Santa and Mrs. Clause will pose for photos at Charlotte Street Computers, 252 Charlotte St. Info: www.charlottestreetcomputers.com.

Winter Festival • SU (12/18), 2-4pm - The Ethical Society of Asheville will host a winter festival featuring a candle lighting ceremony and refreshments. Held at YMI Cultural Center, 39 S Market St. #B. Info: www. aeu.org or 687-7759.

Winter Solstice Hike • TH (12/22), 7-9pm - A winter solstice hike will include a guided, 1/4-mile nighttime walk. Bring a flashlight and a warm drink to toast the solstice. Departs from Hooker Falls parking lot on DuPont Road, Hendersonville. Info: 692-0385.

Winter Solstice Service • SA (12/17), 3-4pm - A Celtic Christian holiday service will be held at Avalon Grove, 223 Dula Springs Road, Weaverville. Info: www.avalongrove.org or 645-2674.

Writers’ Workshop Holiday Get Together • WE (12/21), 5:30-7:30pm - A get together of The Writers’ Workshop will feature hot cider, mulled wine and treats at 387 Beaucatcher Road. RSVP by Dec. 18. Info: writersw@gmail.com or 254-8111.

MORE HOliday HappEnings OnlinE

Check out the Festivals & Gatherings Calendar online at www.mountainx. com/events for info on events happening after December 22.

Arts & Craft Fairs Arts2People Holiday Market

• Through SA (12/24) - Arts2People holiday market will be held at 91 Biltmore Ave. Info: www.arts2people.org.

Asheville City Holiday Market • SATURDAYS through (12/17), 10am1pm - Asheville City Holiday Market, 161 S. Charlotte St. Info: www.asapconnections.org.

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. and Fri., 10am-5pm; Thurs. 11am-3pm. Info: www.BlackMountainArts.org or 6690930.

• Through TH (12/22) - The teacher/ student exhibit and pottery market will showcase work by teachers and students from BMCA Clay Studio.

Haywood’s Historic Farmers Holiday Market • WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS through (12/17), 9am-noon - Haywood’s Historic Farmers Holiday Market will feature vegetables, meats, eggs, soaps and candles. Held at 449A Pigeon St., Waynesville. Info: www.waynesvillefarmersmarket.com.

Madison County Farmers and Artisans Holiday Market • SATURDAYS through (12/17), 10am3pm - Madison County Farmers and Artisans Holiday Market will feature jewelry, candles, quilts, vegetables and more. Hot lunch available from Mackey Farm. Held at Fiddlestix, 37 Library St., Mars Hill. Info: www.marshillmarket.org.

Montford Farmers Market Holiday Bazaar • SATURDAYS through (12/17), 11am3pm - The Montford Farmers Market Holiday Bazaar will feature Christmas trees, dancing, singing and gifts. Held in the parking lot of the Asheville Chamber of Commerce, 36 Montford Ave. Info: www.asapconnections.org.

Transylvania Community Arts Council Located at 349 S. Caldwell St., Brevard.

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10am-4pm. Info: www. artsofbrevard.org or 884-2787.

• Through FR (12/16) - Santa’s Palette holiday show and sale.

Weaverville Tailgate Holiday Market • WEDNESDAYS through (12/21), 26pm - The Weaverville Tailgate Holiday Market will feature artisans, meats and cheeses. Held at the Weaverville Community Center, Lake Louise Drive.

Info: www.weavervilletailgate.org.

White Horse Holiday Farmers Market • WEDNESDAYS through (12/28), 36pm - The White Horse Holiday Farmers Market will feature baked goods, jewelry, meats, cheeses and vegetables. Held at White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Road. Info: www.whitehorseblackmountain.com.

MORE aRT/CRaFT FaiRs EVEnTs OnlinE

Check out the Art/Craft Fairs Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after December 22.

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Abiding Savior Lutheran Church 801 Charlotte Highway, Fairview, NC Worship 10am - Sunday School 11:15 am December 24, Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship, 7:00pm December 25, Lessons and Carols, 10:00am Rev. David Eck, Pastor www.abidingsaviorlutheranchurch.org

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 51

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CALL US TODAY! 828-277-6800 52 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

holidaycalendar Give Back Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC Located at 50 S. French Broad Ave., Room 213, in the United Way building.

The organization matches children from single-parent homes with adult mentors.

Info: www.bbbswnc.org or 253-1470.

• Big Brothers Big Sisters seeks people to mentor one hour a week in schools and after-school sites. Volunteers age 18 and older are also needed to share outings in the community twice a month with youth from single-parent homes.

Activities are free or low-cost, such as sports, local attractions, etc. Info: www. bbbswnc.org or 253-1470. Information Sessions on Jan. 12 and 25 at noon, United Way building S. French Broad Avenue, Room 213.

Call A Ride • Volunteers are needed to drive seniors to doctor appointments as part of the Call A Ride program. Volunteers use their own vehicles and mileage reimbursement is available. Info: www. coabc.org or 277-8228.

Center for New Beginnings • The Center for New Beginnings seeks volunteers for community awareness and services for crime victims and survivors of traffic fatalities, suicides and other death-related incidents. Info: contact@centerfornb.org or 989-9306.

Children First/CIS Children First/CIS is a nonprofit advocating for children living in vulnerable conditions. Info: VolunteerC@childrenfirstbc.org or 768-2072.

• Through TU (5/1), 2:30-5:30pm Volunteers are needed at least one hour per week, Mon.-Thurs., to help K-5th graders with homework and activities.

Info: VolunteerC@childrenfirstbc.org or 768-2072.

Fabric Needed for Donated Quilts • St. Mark’s Lutheran Church seeks large pieces of fabric (82” x 64”) to make quilts for charity. Drop off at 10 N. Liberty St. Info: 263-0043.

Hands On Asheville-Buncombe Choose the volunteer opportunity that works for you. Youth are welcome on many projects with adult supervision.

Info: www.handsonasheville.org or call 2-1-1. Visit the website to sign up for a project.

• TH (12/15), 6:30-8pm - Volunteer with OnTrack: Copy and collate packets for distribution to individuals and families that benefit from OnTrack’s various financial assistance programs.

• TH (12/15), 4-6pm - Fair-Trade Stock-Up: Assist with unpacking and pricing merchandise for Ten Thousand Villages, a nonprofit, fair-trade retail store that sells handcrafted items made by artisans in more than 30 developing countries.

Helios Warriors Health Care Program for Veterans A nonprofit alternative therapy program for veterans. Info: info@helioswarriors. org, www.helioswarriors.org or 2990776.

• THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS - Offering complementary/alternative therapies.

Needed: professional licensed/insured practitioners willing to offer a minimum of three hours per month of their service. Info: helioswarriors@gmail.com or 299-0776.

Holiday Cookie Party • FR (12/16), 6-8pm - Loving Food Resources will host a holiday cookie party to benefit community members in need. Bring four dozen homemade cookies to Kenilworth Presbyterian Church, 123 Kenilworth Road. Info: 273-2531.

Holiday Giving Tree at the Oakley Library • Through WE (12/16) - A holiday giving tree will provide books to children in need. Contact library to select a book for a child based on age, gender and interests. Held at the Oakley Library, 749 Fairview Road. Info: oakley.library@ buncombecounty.org or 250-4754.

Holiday Hero • Through FR (12/16) - Youth Villages will accept donations for Holiday Heroes, a program for abused and neglected children or those with mental health issues. Unwrapped gifts can be dropped off at Youth Villages, 38 Rosscraggon Road, Suite 38C by Dec. 16. Info: Stephanie.Hoyle@ YouthVillages.org or 704-357-7943.

Kerr Cares for Kids Food and Toy Drive • Through WE (12/21) - Kerr Cares for Kids Foundation will host a food and toy drive. Drop off at Kerr Drug stores throughout the Asheville area. Info: www.kerrdrug.com or fgraff@919marketing.com.

Literacy Council of Buncombe County Needs Tutors • WE (12/14) & TH (12/15) - Volunteer orientation. Volunteers are needed to tutor adults in basic literacy skills including reading, writing, math and English as a Second Language. Tutors provide one-on-one or small group instruction to adults in our community. No prior tutoring experience required. Tutors will receive 15 hours of training as well as ongoing support from certified professionals. Located at 31 College Place, Building B., Suite 221. Info: 254-3442, ext. 204 or literacytutors@litcouncil. com.

Meals On Wheels • Through TH (12/15) - Meals On Wheels will collect shoe boxes filled will gifts for the elderly. Please wrap (but do not seal) packages and label male or female. Items must be dropped off at 146 Victoria Road by Dec. 15. Info: www.mowabc.org or 253-5286.

Misfit Toy Delivery Ride • SA (12/17), 10am - The Misfit Toy Deliver Ride encourages motorcyclists to deliver toys to Eliada Children’s Home. Departs from Diamond Thieves, 1570 Patton Ave. Info: 225-3845.

New Opportunities Thrift Store • The Opportunity House, 1411 Asheville Highway in Hendersonville, seeks donations for the New Opportunities Thrift Store. Volunteers

also needed during store hours. Info: 692-0575.

Pot Luck Parents • Pot Luck Parents seeks foster parents to form a support group. Date, time and location to be determined. Info: leighlo@yahoo.com or 226-3876.

RiverLink Events RiverLink, WNC’s organization working to improve life along the French Broad, sponsors a variety of river-friendly events. Info: www.riverlink.org or 2528474.

• WE (12/14), 10am & 5pm - Volunteer information sessions will be held at the RiverLink office, 170 Lyman St. Info: volunteer@riverlink.org or 252-8474.

Road to Recovery • The American Cancer Society seeks drivers to provide transportation to cancer patients as part of its Road to Recovery program. Volunteers must be available weekdays and willing to use their own vehicle. Info: 254-6931.

Smith-McDowell House Museum Period rooms grace this antebellum house on the campus of A-B Tech Community College, 283 Victoria Road.

Info: education@wnchistory.org or 253-9231.

• Through TH (1/5) - Volunteer tour guides needed, especially on weekends.

Flexible hours. Training provided. Info: wnchavolunteers@gmail.com or 2535518.

Transylvania Community Arts Council Located at 349 S. Caldwell St., Brevard.

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10am-4pm. Info: www.artsofbrevard.org or 884-2787.

• Through SA (12/31) - Volunteers needed for the “Take Art to Heart” program to share works of art with elementary school students. Info: tcarts@ comporium.net.

Volunteers for Family Therapy Study • Through FR (12/30) - Family therapist Vikki Stark seeks adults who experienced divorce as a child or teen for a clinical study. Info: ChildDivorceStudy@ gmail.com.

Winter Coat Drive • MONDAYS through FRIDAYS, 8:30am-5pm - The Sheriff’s Office will collect coats, sweaters and winter items for local shelters. Collection boxes located at 202 Haywood St. and 20 Davidson Drive. Info: 250-4441.

YWCA MotherLove Giving Tree • Through FR (12/16) - The YWCA MotherLove Giving Tree will be on display at 185 S. French Broad Ave. The Giving Tree is made of stars bearing wishes from local teen mothers. The public is invited to the YWCA to provide gifts children. Info: 254-7206.

MORE VOLUNTEERING EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Volunteering Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after December 22.

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arts&entertainment

Elf-cEntErEd it’s thE 10th AnnivErsAry of thE sAntAlAnd diAriEs At Act

by Alli MArshAll In a season as padded as a bounce house with fuzzy, cutesy, feel-good, family-friendly pageants, films and musical revues, one-man play The Santaland Diaries stands out like a lump of coal in a Christmas stocking.

In the most gleefully delightful way, of course.

“I wear green velvet knickers, a forest green velvet smock and a perky little hat decorated with spangles. This is my work uniform.” So begins David Sedaris’ Santaland, which first came to us via NPR in 1992. “Everything these elves say seems to have an exclamation point on the end of it. It makes one’s mouth hurt to speak with such forced merriment. It embarrasses me to hear people talk this way. I think I’ll be a low-key sort of elf.”

The memoir, which recounts Sedaris’ turn as a Macy’s Department Store elf one holiday season, is deliciously biting and wickedly funny. The original radio segment served as the segue for Sedaris to transition from a mostly unemployable unknown to a bestselling author. In ‘96, the story was adapted for the stage, and in 2002, the

thE sAntAlAnd diAriEs AshEvillE coMMunity thEAtrE

thursdAy-sundAy, dEc. 15-18 (thursdAy-sAturdAy At 7:30 p.M., sundAy At 2:30 p.M. $12,$19 And $22. AshEvillEthEAtrE.org.) play was first produced by Asheville Community Theatre at 35below, its black-box stage.

Jesse Benz played the starring (and sole) role of Crumpet the Elf with sneering, bitter perfection for three years. When he moved away from Asheville, comedian Tom Chalmers filled the striped tights. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the guilty pleasure. While ACT prepares to stage the production (complete with giveaways, a Twitter promotion, preshow activities and afterparties), cast and crew past and present recounted to Xpress their favorite moments spent in Santaland.

AndrEw gAll, dirEctor, 2002-2005 The first production of Santaland was also the first produciton in 35below.

So we had no budget and no one was

54 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

really sure if something as “risque” as Santaland would be successful. We had a small budget for the costume and that was it.

The initial production was very actor driven and Jesse Benz had some boxes that were used as the various set pieces and the costume change was done on stage.

Jesse and I rehearsed during the day.

Usually for about several hours at a shot. We smoked a lot. Jesse also got ill during tech week and I mean ill. I remember opening night Jesse was about three minutes or less into the show and got nauseous, went into a panic, forgot his lines, and said “excuse me” and ran off stage. He was offstage for what felt like eons. He came back on continued the show and no one cared. (I think the audience was hammered as Jenny Bunn was putting the hard sell on the wine.) Anyway, the show went fine.

The next year we added a “set” and we did it in 35below. In retrospect, [the set] was akin to the decision to put nipples on George Clooney’s bat suit. The show was just as successful and Jesse and I came on for our third year. By that time my daughter had been born and I remember having her with me at rehearsals. I think we did away with a lot of the set that year and went back to the basics: actor, bad elf costume and lots of cynical Crumpet attitude.

tiA robinson, stAgE MAnAgEr, 2002-2004 Working closely with the director, Andrew Gall, as well as the main (and, of course, only) actor, Jesse Benz, provided many hours of priceless entertainment. I was also involved in running the lights and sound for each performance, which was set up in the corner of the stage area, directly behind the audience.

Most of my favorite production memories consist of how closely involved Jesse was with the audience. My location during the show gave me a perfect position to enjoy the interactions. I’ll never forget several instances where

Jesse had to ad lib through small sections of his role because the audience insisted on becoming part of the performance. Jesse always rolled brilliantly with the unexpected but hilarious inserts. Not even when one audience member flashed him did it throw him off the task of providing an unforgettable show.

lEE storrow, AssistAnt stAgE MAnAgEr, 2005 & 2007 I was in high school. I had worked several shows at ACT on the big musicals, and then was asked to come in and assistant stage manage Santaland. It was the first role that I’d had with more official responsibilities. I’d worked with Jesse on Waiting for Godot at Highland Repertory Company and I’d seen [Santaland] in the black box [at 35below].

On Saturday we had two shows — a show at 8 and at 11 p.m. Getting that final show together when we had them back-to-back was the most stressful thing we did. The entire crew ran around for 20 minutes like crazy people before we got it ready for the people to come in. And half of the people for the last show were drunk. That’s what the 11 p.m. show was like.

We were always strategically hiding water bottles. It’s not a long show, but it’s an energetic show. We were always like, where can we hide a water bottle for Tom so he can somehow make it through this marathon?

And then the snow. We poured snow down on Tom from the ceiling. There was a gag about him cleaning up the snow. It would stop and he’d clean it up and then it would start again. For the last one, the whole bucket of snow dumped on him. The entire stage was white. That was the tricky part for that Saturday show — trying to get it all up, get all the dust and dirt out, and get it back into the bucket for the last show.

susAn hArpEr, AshEvillE coMMunity thEAtrE MAnAging dirEctor I came to Asheville in 2003, very excited to work for an organization that would present The Santaland Diaries.

I love David Sedaris’ sense of humor and have loved being a part of this production. I was introduced to Sedaris by reading a book of his on a plane and I laughed so hard, someone came back and asked for the book when I was finished with it. Then I listened to him laugh while we flew home.

My only real contribution to the show was suggesting that we should move it from 35below to the main stage — and that was mostly because we were

whAt’s so spEciAl About this yEAr’s sAntAlAnd? ACT will be selling the 10,000th ticket to The Santaland Diaries during this year’s run of the production. The person who buys that ticket wins a basket with gift certificates from local businesses, a Go Local card from Asheville Grown and a season subscription to ACT. Tweet Seats: Local Twitterers have been invited to live tweet opening night.

Pre-show activities in the Lobby include pictures with “Santa,” carolers singing the lesser known holiday tunes and a retrospective showing of all the Santaland intro films at 7 p.m.

Afterparties: Thursday, Dec. 15, 9 p.m. at Arcade Asheville; Friday, Dec. 16, 9 p.m. at Fiore’s Ristorante Toscana downtown; Saturday, Dec. 17, 9 p.m. at Sazarac; Sunday, Dec. 18, 4 p.m. at Olive or Twist. — A.M.

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doing 18 performances in 35below which was killing us! We can do almost double the number of tickets in four performances on the Mainstage.

We get to build a bigger set, and Tom can reveal Santaland by pulling down a parachute curtain.

toM chAlMErs, Actor, 2005-prEsEnt I took over the role of Crumpet when Jesse Benz moved to San Francisco and the show moved from 35below up to the big stage. I am affectionately referred to in this town as “that elf guy.”

My favorite memory, and there are many, is from a show we did a few years back. About a third of the way into the show, I pull down a parachute drop that is masking the back half of the stage to reveal the Santaland set. I would always play up getting caught in the parachute as it got pulled off stage. But on that night the stagehands pulled extra hard, and sure enough, I got swallowed up by the slippery white material. The audience thought it was hilarious seeing me flail about in the nylon fabric, having no idea that I was unable to breathe. I started to panic and tried to swim my way out, looking like a mouse making his

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 55

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escape from a snake’s belly. Also unable to see, I slammed my head into a set piece and came ever so close to careening off the stage, Ann Margaret-style.

I somehow managed to free myself and was greeted by generous applause, everyone certain that I had gone to great lengths for the gag. I never let on that I nearly suffocated and never let the parachute anywhere near me ever again.

JEnny bunn, AshEvillE coMMunity thEAtrE MArkEting dirEctor

Josh bAtEnhorst, dirEctor, 2006-prEsEnt

I took the picture the first year by laying on the floor of the 35below bathroom and taking pictures of Jesse sitting on the toilet in his elf tights. Santaland 2003: opening night was canceled due to a freak November snowstorm. It was right before Thanksgiving and my in-laws were in town, as were folks from Jesse’s family. So I ran the lights and my husband Scott ran the sound and we did the show for just our families. Santaland 2004, a lady (and I use that term loosely) sitting on the front row of 35below flashed Jesse. Full frontal. I really think that was the only time he ever, ever was flustered onstage.

Since I came on board, our hope has been to continue to tell the story of Santaland while adding a few more elements to the evening (such as pre-show films, some alternate musical interludes and some exciting attractions for this year’s show).

In my role, I think the moments of panic stick out more than any “favorite” moments (per se). For example, a couple of years ago, Tom’s mother sadly passed away a day before opening night. Tom bravely performed opening night but was, of course, unavailable for the Friday and Saturday shows. “The show must go on,” so that’s where I stepped in. The first night, we tried to just do the show without script in hand, wearing an ear piece. It was a disaster. The ear piece stopped working during the first couple of minutes, I fell down the stairs, my (Tom’s) pants kept falling off. ... I will say that those who were in attendance were privileged to an “unforgettable” night of theater. About 15 minutes in, the crowd did get on my side and we ended up having a good time, but that first 15 minutes were probably the most frightening, sweaty, terrible minutes I have experienced as a performer.

56 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

The first year, we had a budget of about $50. Everything in the show was basically a donated Christmas item, and I think the whole set was just an old Christmas tree that Jesse would plug into the wall at the reveal of Macy’s Santaland. It was literally the exact opposite of what it must be like to actually see the first morning of the actual Macy’s Santaland.

When Josh took over as director (Santaland 2006), he and Tom had added in a really long sound cue of someone urinating which I felt was too Austin Powers, and I asked Josh to replace it with some other bit. Josh had some reason for leaving it in that had something to do with Goethe.

I remember him standing in my office arguing that if I would just think back to the traditional German theater, I would understand just how hilarious it was.

We ended up cutting the sound cue and replacing it with a cupful of glitter.

Also: Anytime someone sneaks a beer into Santaland, it’s always a PBR. Alli Marshall can be reached at amarshall@mountainx.com.

arts X music

My Florida Home for

Your Home in Asheville

Electric wonderland

Bluegrass aces Chatham County Line plug in for holiday blowout

by Jordan Lawrence

info who:

Chatham County Line Electric Holiday Tour, with Johnny Irion

where:

The Grey Eagle

when:

Saturday, Dec. 17 (9 p.m. $12. thegreyeagle.com)

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bluegrass cheer: The band’s holiday show (which debuted in 2003) has become a vital part of its identity. Photo by Daniel Coston.

County Line’s Dave Wilson (guitar), Greg Readling (bass) and John Teer (mandolin) in the folk-rock outfit Stillhouse and the backing band for acclaimed folk singer Tift Merritt during her stint in Raleigh in the early aughts.

Now, the once-close friends are spread out and busy. Hutchins and Merritt, his wife, live in New York. Brown lives down the street from Wilson, but the two rarely see each other thanks to CCL’s busy touring schedule. The band hopes that a weeklong trial by fire each December will help maintain the close bonds in their extended musical family.

“We love it, man,” Wilson says. “We’re actually going back to our roots. It’s not like we’re changing anything. We’re just kind of doing what we always did on a Saturday night.”

More than just an opportunity to reunite with old friends during the most celebratory time of the year, the show lets CCL directly feed their rock impulses. Pedal steel and piano have been part of their recorded output for years, and they added drums to last year’s Wildwood.

These moves sit outside the hardline traditionalism favored by many in the bluegrass world.

Plugging in and adding additional players gives Reading the opportunity to play live the keys and steel he adds in the studio. Wilson notes that these moves are far from studio posturing, emphasizing that when the band is just hanging out, the rock instruments most always come out first.

“We’re just actually using the holidays as an excuse to do this,” Wilson says. “We’d love to be able to put on the acoustic show and then put on a rock show in the same night, but it’s just not really feasible to travel around with all that crap all year long. We love doing the acoustic set as

well, but we love to rock out.”

The holiday show has become a vital part of Chatham County Line’s identity. It began in 2003, the year that the band debuted its first record, and a performance from last year’s tour at the Variety Playhouse in Atlanta was recorded for a double LP and DVD package (to be released in March.) It’s become one of the band’s most treasured occasions, one they in no way plan to abandon.

“If I had like 50 nasty emails in my inbox from people who were like, ‘I absolutely hate that you’re doing this,’ I might think about it for a second,” Holt laughs. “But it still wouldn’t change anything.” X Jordan Lawrence is assistant editor at Charlottebased Shuffle Magazine and a contributing writer at The Independent.

Spencer Herr

In December 2009, Chatham County Line was set to hit Asheville on the first-ever tour of their annual holiday show. The morning before the gig, banjo player Chandler Holt received a call from Jeff Whitworth, co-owner of the Grey Eagle. A huge snowstorm had just dumped a foot of snow on the city, and Whitworth inquired doubtfully as to the status of the band’s trek. “[He] said, ‘Man, are you guys coming?’”

Holt recalls. “I said, ‘Hell yeah, I’m going to be there!’ He said, ‘People are snowed in, man.’ I said, ‘Well, whatever.’ He said, ‘As many people are getting snowed in, there are people stuck inside getting cabin fever. There’s not going to be as many people.’ We said, ‘As long as we can get the van down the street, we will freaking be there.’

And it was a blast, man. People were like, ‘Don’t stop playing! It’s cold at our house!’

They didn’t have any heat or electricity. That to me stuck out as one of the best things ever. Just that slight amount of adversity, everyone rallied, and it payed off and turned into something really great.”

Raleigh’s Chatham County Line are as polished and professional a modern bluegrass outfit as you’re likely to come across: a tight, chugging foursome of bass, mandolin, guitar and banjo that’s filled out with gorgeous pedal steel and additional percussion on record.

They’re also road warriors in the truest sense of the term. Started in 1999, they now play 100 to 120 shows a year, trekking often across the U.S. and Europe. Life on the road has brought them closer, making them a better ensemble.

With their five-date holiday tour, a tradition that began in 2003, the band hopes to use exaggerated adversity to accomplish a different end.

These five N.C. concerts will feature the band’s traditional acoustic set, where all four stand un-amplified around one area mic. But they will also play an electric set where the band is joined by three special guests — friends and collaborators who have been integral in the band’s history.

Drummer Zeke Hutchins, bassist Jay Brown and guitarist Johnny Irion played with Chatham

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mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 57

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arts X music

Spread the word that it’s funk that you heard Free Flow Band gets people dancing

LLC

www.thesoapydog.com

“We just feel it natural”: The musicians in Free Flow Band have been singing and playing music since they were young. Photo by Ami Worthen.

by Ami Worthen “Our mission is to get people on the dance floor,” the members of the Free Flow Band proclaimed during a recent interview, almost in unison. And if you’ve seen them perform, you know that they meet that mission, night after night.

“We love to see people having a good time.

Especially right now, with everything going on with the economy and all — we just want to bring a little joy,” said vocalist/percussionist, Roger “Lil Rog” Ware.

Free Flow was formed six years ago by Ware and bandmates Kevin “Kazual” Collins (vocals, keyboards) and Darrell “B Note” Griffin (vocals, bass), who all grew up in Asheville. “Kevin’s grandmother used to babysit my sister and I. And Roger and I were in junior high together,” explained Griffin.

All of the members of Free Flow have been

info what:

Free Flow

where:

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz & Blues

when:

Friday, Dec.16 (10 p.m. tressas.com freeflowband.info)

58 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

playing music since they were young. “My mother told me that when I was in the crib, I was banging a bottle in rhythm,” says Collins.

“After that, they got me a set of bongos when I was about 6 years old, and when I was seven I got my first drum set.” Griffin played piano and sax in elementary school, and then moved on to bass and drums. “This is actually my first band, but I’ve been singing gospel since I was 3 years old,” Ware says. “When I was younger I traveled around with a group called the Gospel Wheels.”

Back in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, Collins explained, “when the Orange Peel was owned by Dickie Plemmons, he used to bring in James Brown, the Commodores, the Barcades, all the old groups.”

Though they were underage, Ware admits, “All of us done snuck in there at least once or twice.

I know I got to see Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Otis Redding. That was the spot.” These stolen moments of inspiration had a major influence on Free Flow. Today, they are carrying on the R&B, soul and funk music of these masters.

“We do cover songs, but we put our own original twist to them. That’s why you’ll hear the songs sounding a lot different than what’s on the record,” explained Collins. The material they draw from includes Rick James, J. Giles, George Clinton, Michael Jackson, Al Green, the Rolling Stones and Prince. An interesting twist to the band’s instrumentation is its drum machine, with samples from the original recordings that the band is bringing back to life.

But the most notable thing about Free Flow’s

havana Looking for a fun-filled Holiday Event?

The Fine Arts League of the Carolinas hosts Storyteller,

Sarah Larson, December 21st at 7:00 pm

at the Fine Arts League of the Carolinas Gallery located in the Historic Grove Arcade.

The evening is sure to bring joy to all those who attend.

Holiday beverages and goodies will be served.

The Cost is Free. Bring a friend, your children and/or grandchildren and relax while Sarah shares her tales.

For more information, please contact

the Fine Arts League of the Carolinas at (828) 252-5050 Free Flow at Havana When not booked elsewhere, Free Flow plays at Havana Restaurant (located on the ground floor of the Battery Park Hotel building) on Fridays from 8 to 10 p.m.. These early shows have developed quite a reputation, and they draw what is arguably one of the most diverse crowds in Asheville. Owned by longtime Asheville business owner Hector Contreras, Havana’s flavorful Cuban food and potent mojitos add to the festive atmosphere created by Free Flow. “When we first started there, Hector didn’t expect people to be dancing, but by the time we finish our second set, there is a Congo line all the way around the restaurant,” Griffin reports with a grin. “It’s become a tradition.” As Contreras puts it, “When Free Flow plays here, it’s always party.” Watch the band’s website for Havana dates.

Photo by Ami Worthen

sound is their rich harmonies. All three members of the band are active in their church choirs, to which they attribute their abilities to harmonize.

“We just feel it natural,” Griffin says. “Two people can sing harmony, and the other will automatically hear the third part. It just gels between the three of us.”

You can find Free Flow playing private parties, weddings, festivals and local clubs such as Tressa’s, where they will be on Dec. 16. Tressa’s was the first place they performed as a band, and the band is quick to point out that they will never forget getting that break. A highlight of the band’s career was opening up for Cameo at Goombay three years ago — the hometown support they got that day was uplifting.

Recently, the original members of the band have been joined on stage by Pete “Texas Pete”

Small on guitar and Derek “D Rock” Sandlin on vocals and bass. And when an even bigger band is appropriate, Free Flow recruits various local musicians, including Ruby Mayfield on sax.

In addition to Free Flow, Ware has a gospel quartet group called The Brothers of Faith.

Collins is currently in the process of recording his second solo album. Griffin owns B Note Productions, and produces Just Keepin’ It Real, a show with features interviews with musicians.

The band’s slogan, which is shouted out to the crowd at the end of every show, is “Spread the word that it’s funk that you heard!” The enthusiastic dancers moved by the band’s music are certain to do just that. X Ami Worthen can be contacted at amiwhoa@ gmail.com.

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 59

nuestras historias, nuestras voces/ our stories, our voices Curated by local artist Victor Palomino, this group show celebrates the stories of Western North Carolina’s immigrant population. An interactive storytelling booth allows visitors to the gallery to record their personal stories or view others.’ Also exhibited in the gallery are paintings and sculpture by six local artists including sculptress Sandra Garcia, and Adriana Vasilut, a painter from Romania. Palomino’s own mixed media series of faces is gripping, honest and fresh.

The show is a collaborative effort by local organizations: The Coalition of Latin American Organizations (COLA), Latino Advocacy Coalition (LAC), Center for Participatory Change (CPC), Workers Center of WNC and Nuestro Centro. Its intention is to raise awareness around issues of deportation, but more broadly it explores concepts of home, community and identity. In the center of the gallery is the result of Martha Skinner’s performance piece, 10x10, wherein a collective drawing was produced by 10 immigrants in a “stop/start” format, a la musical chairs. The outcome is quite lovely.

The exhibit runs through Dec. 30 at The Artery, 346 Depot St. ashevillearts.com. — Ursula Gullow

60 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

severn Eaton at push For those of you familiar with Severn Eaton’s work, leave behind your expectations. Eaton makes his debut at PUSH Skateshop and Gallery with a new exhibition titled See What Inspired Me. (Yes, it gets its name from the obnoxious series of Tiger Woods billboards.) The Asheville painter is known for capturing the intensity of socio-cultural foreign affairs with a touch of humor. His new work maintains a tongue-in-cheek attitude, but this time he’s playing with the disconnect between real and synthetic experiences.

The gallery’s walls are covered, but you won’t find paintings. Instead, hundreds of large-scale advertisements and banners paper the floor and walls, creating an enclosed chamber. Over and under the words are images of food, smiling people and a 5-foot-wide baby’s head emblazoned with a copyright symbol.

Two clear packing-tape casts of Eaton and his wife face each other from across a waist high red box positioned in the middle of the gallery. A toggle switch on the box activates a vacuum motor attached to the figures. When flipped one was, Mr. Eaton begins to inflate while Mrs. Eaton deflates. Likewise for the opposite.

Show at PUSH Skateshop and Gallery, 25 Patton Ave. 225-5509. — Kyle Sherard

Daniel McClendon

The New Materiality

Prepare to be amazed upon entering the new digs of Daniel McClendon, called Lift Studios in the River Arts District. First, there’s the space itself. Constructed in 1907 as a warehouse for the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco), McClendon took over the building last summer and renovated the façade and infrastructure.

The expansive interior features an industrial freight elevator that serves as McClendon’s studio and showroom.

Artists respond to technology’s ubiquity by combining traditional crafting methods with electronic media. The New Materiality, a traveling show curated by Fo Wilson of The Fuller Craft Museum, assesses the boundaries between the handmade and the automated, the traditional and the contemporary. Among the work presented: Videos of oak trees embedded into a classically crafted wooden table, jewelry constructed from pixelated low resolution images of gems, woven tapestries depicting the sound waves of hand-operated and mechanized looms, and hand-blown glass vessels ornamented with cast glass encasing mini videos that pay homage to books.

Then there are McClendon’s paintings — large, gestural and full of life. The series is a departure from his former narrative paintings that were more concerned with realism and composition. With his new work, McClendon focuses on the creative process exposed in his energetic strokes of layered paint. Working with glossy black acrylic first, McClendon builds up consecutive layers in oil. Lines are scratched deliberately into the wet paint revealing animal forms like buffaloes, pigs, snakes, gorillas, bats and octopi. The result appears effortless while maintaining visual sway. “I realized what was important was the process,” says McClendon. “I love to be intuitive with it. I like the chaos and spontaneity of what can happen with the paint.”

The show is up through 349 Depot St. TuesdaySaturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or by appointment, 269267-4113 or danielmc.com. — Ursula Gullow

Kevin Carman at Coop

There are a few glitches in the presentation: some batteries need recharging, and not everything is operating at its fullest capacity.

These issues point to a larger issue regarding electronic technology’s fragility and dependence upon finite resources. Considering the multifaceted creative legacy of Western North Carolina, this exhibit is highly relevant to the local dialog of contemporary art and craft, and is worth seeing. Kudos to the museum for exhibiting new media.

Through March 18 at the Asheville Art Museum. $8 for nonmembers. Free every first Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. ashevilleartmuseum.org. — Ursula Gullow

Coop is currently host to a peculiar assortment of artworks by Atlanta/California artist Kevin Carman. Marble and soapstone sculptures from a seemingly classical artistic background share the gallery with abstract paintings and short poems painted on walls and canvases.

Carman, a self-taught artist, has transformed a background in stone masonry into refined and polished sculptural works. Some of the pieces adhere to more formal elements of stonework, while others have playful elements seen in his paintings downstairs.

“Female Torso” and “Pod” stick closer to those traditional veins, both in title and content. But “Master Gator,” a 2-foot-long alligator head, is the first to show Carman’s humorous side.

The paintings go in the opposite direction, possessing roughly painted images of people, horned heads and multi-colored abstract patterns. A papal figure titled “Sellabit” has large, deep-set black eyes that stick out over the mustardy yellow and Creamsicle orange washes of thinly painted color. Several of the figurative paintings, including “Sellabit,” have underlying texts — some narrative, others poetic. It’s a diverse collection of work, all of one man, but seemingly of two.

Show up through Jan. 2 at Coop Studio, Gallery and Performance Space, 25 Carolina Lane. coopasheville.com — Kyle Sherard

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 61

$$ Ca sh 4

Ju n k C a r s

theprofiler

by becky upham

The Suspect: Norma Jean

GASHOG JUNK • TIRED • WRECKED •

Get rid of a non-running vehicle

This Christian metal-core band formerly known as Luti-Kriss has been playing together since 1997, though the band’s only original remaining member is guitarist, Chris Day. They’ve played Ozzfest and the Mayhem Festival, and they recently headlined the Explosions II Tour with After the Burial and For Fallen Dreams.

Sell your old car • Clean up your property

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Can Be Found: Sunday, Dec. 18 at The Orange Peel.

RIYD: Korn, Limp Bizkit.

You Should Go If: You were the only person in your eighthgrade class who liked The Passion of the Christ better than Agent Cody Banks 2; you coined the word “wrathvenge,” a combination of your two favorite words, “wrath” and “vengeance”; you’ve never lost a staring contest. Ever; your “Bah, humbug”: Peace on Earth.

The Suspect: Paper Tiger This ultra-cool Asheville duo plays original lounge and trip-hop. Paper Tiger is Ruby Slippers (Molly Kummerle) and MINGLE (Isaac Gottfried.)

Showcased at the Moog Foundation CD-release Party at the Orange Peel, they’ve opened for King Britt, NOMO and Brooklyn’s Eliot Lipp.

Can Be Found: Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Emerald Lounge.

RIYD: Portishead, Morcheeba.

You Should Go If: You find James Bond movies incredibly romantic; you designed your own tattoo that looks like both a bird and a mustache; you sometimes roll your right pant leg up and pretend as if you’ve biked places that you’ve actually driven; your “Bah, humbug”: credit limits.

62 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

The Suspect: Johnny Irion The precocious and super-talented Irion formed his first band at the age of 15, and a few years later joined in Chapel Hill’s Dillon Fence. He eventually struck out on his own, moved to California and met his future wife, Sarah Lee Guthrie; together they released the critically acclaimed albums Exploration and this year’s Bright Examples. He also has two solo records.

Can Be Found: Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Grey Eagle.

Opening for Chatham County Line.

RIYD: Whiskeytown meets Bill Monroe.

You Should Go If: Your local Boy Scout troop named a merit badge in your honor; you’re known as your neighborhood recyclopath; You’ve unintentionally won your office ugly Christmas sweater contest three years running; your “Bah, humbug”: wrapping paper.

The descriptions of fan qualities and quirks are intended to be a playful take on what’s unique about all of us. The world would be a better place if everyone went out to see more live music.

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mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 63

smartbets

Sheila Kay Adams at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial

What’s on your

” A list , Asheville?

----------------------------------------“

When you look back on 2011,

what stands out?

It’s not about what was the best or the worst, but what was memorable.

----------------------------------------Go to mountainx.com/alist for some guidelines, examples and to make your own. We’ll make our own A-list of our favorite entries and publish them Dec. 28 in our end-of-the-year issue (hint: it’s all about lists).

-----------You’ll also get a special prize if your list is published.-----------

----------------.To summarize, here’s a lisT: .----------------

Go to mountainx.com/alist

Make a list

Pick uP our Dec. 28 issue To see if your lisT maDe The lisT

Get a special prize from Mountain Xpress 64 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Need to kick start your Christmas spirit? Balladeer and storyteller Sheila Kay Adams (a seventh-generation ballad singer from Madison County) performs “an evening of Southern Appalachian Mountains Christmas stories, traditional ballads and music” at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. The “Christmas On The Mountain” program draws from Adams’ own childhood holidays and experiences growing up in rural N.C. Two shows on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Limited seating. $10 (a portion of the processed benefits the Thomas Wolfe historic site). wolfememorial.com.

Paper Tiger at Emerald Lounge Local trip-hop outfit Paper Tiger announces its last show for 2011 — this is the one to make lest those 2012 predictions come true. (And even if the Mayans were wrong, why not close out this year in high style?) The Emerald Lounge show, on Saturday, Dec. 17, kicks off at 10 p.m. with producer Peripheral (who also performs with Paper Tiger), followed by Chattanooga’s Digital Butter.

Paper Tiger is on at midnight and the band’s front woman Molly Kummerle rounds out the evening with a DJ set of her favorite tracks. $6. emeraldlounge.com. Photo by Ben Mason.

smartbets

Seaton Smith at the Altamont According to his bio, stand-up comic Seaton Smith is “a lover of bacon and beer. He applies a smooth charisma to a layer of explosive energy, topped off with unforgettable characters sure to permanently reside in your brain.”

He’s charmed fans on YouTube, at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal and at The Laugh Your Asheville Off Comedy Festival — the latter probably being why he’s coming back to town. Smith performs at The Altamont Theatre on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 16 and 17. 8 p.m. $12. myaltamont.com.

Billy Jonas at the Diana Wortham Theatre Though “Multi-cultural Holiday Concert & Celebration” may be a long title, it’s sure to pack a wallop of fun. After all, the Monday, Dec. 19 “upbeat, innovative, whimsical family show” (held at the Diana Wortham Theatre) comes straight from the wacky and wonderful mind of Billy Jonas.

Expect lots of found-object percussion (buckets, broom handles, bottles, key chains) and an appearance by the Billy Jonas Band, including vocalist Ashley Jo Farmer, musician/ percussionist Juan Holladay and bassist/”ethereal whistler” Sherman Hoover. Shows at 10 a.m. and noon. $7 per person or $6 per person for groups of 11 or more. dwtheatre.com.

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 65

clubland

Voted Best diVe BAR!

where to find the clubs • what is playing • listings for venues throughout Western North Carolina Clubland rules

pinball, foosball, ping-pong & a kickass jukebox kitchen open until late 504 Haywood Rd. West Asheville • 828-255-1109 “It’s bigger than it looks!”

•To qualify for a free listing, a venue must be predominately dedicated to the performing arts. Bookstores and cafés with regular open mics and musical events are also allowed.

•To limit confusion, events must be submitted by the venue owner or a representative of that venue.

•Events must be submitted in written form by e-mail (clubland@mountainx.com), fax, snail mail or hand-delivered to the Clubland Editor Dane Smith at 2 Wall St., Room 209, Asheville, NC 28801. Events submitted to other staff members are not assured of inclusion in Clubland.

•Clubs must hold at least TWO events per week to qualify for listing space. Any venue that is inactive in Clubland for one month will be removed.

•The Clubland Editor reserves the right to edit or exclude events or venues.

•Deadline is by noon on Monday for that Wednesday’s publication. This is a firm deadline.

Athena’s Club

Handlebar

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and

French Broad Brewery Tasting

Disclaimer Standup Lounge (comedy open mic), 9pm

Dank Sinatra (electronic, reggae, funk) w/ Milli Fungus

Blues

Room

Neil Cribbs (folk, Americana, rock)

Black Mountain Ale House

Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Peggy’s All Girl Singer Showcase (benefit for Alisa Kuumba) Westville Pub

Max Melner Orchestra (jazz, funk), 10pm

Ben Hovey (multi-instrumentalist, electronic, soul)

White Horse

Garage at Biltmore

Jazzville

Rotation

Wild Wing Cafe

Get Down

Jeff & Justin (acoustic)

Cheap Thrills w/ Johnny Sexx & The Treatment

Open mic w/ Dave Bryan, 8pm

Front stage: Shane Perlowin

Blend Hookah Lounge

Lobster Trap

Open mic w/ Sven Hooson

Valorie Miller (Americana, folk)

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Open mic

Chompin’ at the Bit String Band w/ The Liden Family Band

Dirty South Lounge

Wax in the Back, 9pm

Brown Bag Songwriting Competition w/ Alex Krug, 6:30pm David Zoll Trio, 10pm

Karaoke French Broad Chocolate Lounge

August Black (folk, Americana) Garage at Biltmore

Lord T & Eloise (hip-hop) Get Down

Movie night

Wed., december 14 Ben Hovey (multi-instrumentalist, electronic, soul), 8-10pm ARCADE

The 999 Eyes Freakshow & Surreal Sideshow w/ Sugarfoot Serenaders

Karaoke, 10pm

Gene Peyroux & the Acoustalectric Pedals of Love (rock, funk, soul) Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Open mic, 7-9pm

Buen Viaje feat: The Critters, Zombie Queen, Jeff Santiago & more

The Greyhounds (rockabilly)

Dirty South Lounge

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Dirty Bingo, 9pm

Root Bar No. 1

Ed Boudreaux’s Bayou BBQ

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop guitar), 5:30-7:30pm Killer B’s (favorites by request), 8-11pm

Lucky James (roots, blues, swing), 8-11pm

Hoopers Creek Cafe

Emerald Lounge

Open mic & bluegrass jam w/ Sherry Lynn

Oger Throne

Lobster Trap

Fred’s Speakeasy

Hank Bones (“man of 1,000 songs”)

Todd Hoke (singer/songwriter), 6-9pm

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop guitar), 5:30-7:30pm Killer B’s (favorites by request), 8-11pm

Linda Mitchell (blues, jazz) Burgerworx

Southern Appalachian Brewery

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Good Stuff

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Orange Peel

Now You See Them (folk, pop, indie) Kickstarter fundraiser

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

5 Walnut Wine Bar

Thu., december 15

One Stop Deli & Bar

Fred’s Speakeasy

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Wendy Hayes Quartet (blues, jazz), 8-11pm

TallGary’s Cantina

Open mic, 7pm

One Stop Deli & Bar

Cindercat w/ Agobi Project, 10pm

Fri & Sat, Dec. 16 & 17

Thursday, Dec. 15th CLOSED

ThE 99 EYES FREAKShow ANd 12/14 SuRREAL SidEShow WED

DOORS @ 4PM - SHOW 6-8 PM

COMMON FOUNDATION

thu

12/15

(SKA/REGGAE WITH HORNS)

Saturday, Dec. 17th DOORS @ 4PM - SHOW 6-8 PM

BLIND LEMON PHILLIPS (ROCK WITH HORNS)

ALL SHOWS ARE FREE! no cover charge (4-8pm)

(828) 299-3370

Sunday, Dec. 18

SAt

12/17

Michael Jefry Stevens Trio

ThE GREYhouNdS FEAT. mEmbERS oF moFRo 9pm

Jazz | $8 | 12pm - 2:30 pm

Sunday, Dec. 18

ChAThAm CouNTY LiNE

The Trishas

ELECTRiC hoLidAY TouR 9pm Langhorne Slim | Carrie Rodriguez NYE w/Acoustic Syndicate Fred Eaglesmith | Fist Fam

Kitchen open for dinner on Nights of Shows!

12 Old Charlotte Hwy., Suite H Asheville, NC 28803 www.highlandbrewing.com

66 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

f r i. d e c. 1 6

Stand-up Comedy | $12 | 8PM

w/ SuGARFooT SERENAdERS 8 pm

PRIVATE PARTY

Friday, Dec. 16th

Seaton Smith

| $15 | 8PM

w/special guest nikki talley

FREE Every Tuesday Night!

Original MuSiC SerieS hOSteD by Mike hOlStein & JuStin Watt StartS DeC. 13 18 Church Street | asheville, nC

828-348-5327 www.thealtamont.com

elkmOnt w/

sunshine & the Bad things & anatOmy Of frank SaT. de c. 1 7

Benefit fOr BrOther WOlf featuring

malcOlm hOlcOmBe, ed snOdderly & Jelly rOll JOhnsOn O n t h e f r O n t s ta g e SundayS TueSdayS

Aaron Price 1pm | Piano

Jake Hollifield Piano | 9pm

Big Brown Bag Songwriting Competition finals w/ Alex Krug

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Devon Allman’s Honeytribe (jam, blues, rock) PULP

Athena’s Club

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Slice of Life (comedy open mic), 8:30pm

High Gravity Jazz

Kellin Watson (folk rock, pop, soul)

Mark Appleford (singer/songwriter, harmonica, guitar), 8-10pm DJ, 10pm-2am

Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Outlaws & Scoundrels feat: Selector Cleofus, D-Queue, Ape Kit & more

DJ Marley Carroll, 9pm

Acoustic Swing

Get Down

Red Stag Grill

Boiler Room

Eric Ciborski (piano)

Dead Light Pulse (rock, metal) w/ Eating the Sun & Envy of the Wicked

Wooden Toothe w/ 1st Last in Line & Albert Adams

Pisgah Brewing Company

Purple Onion Cafe

Scandals Nightclub

Talent search night Straightaway Cafe

Jay Brown

The Stereofidelics (indie, rock)

Garage at Biltmore

Good Stuff

Broadway’s

Ben Wilson

On Golden Rond w/ The Lost Gospels

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Craggie Brewing Company

Donna Germano (hammered dulcimer), 2-4pm Bill Covington (piano classics & standards), 5:30-7:30pm The Business (Motown funk), 8-11pm

The Brooke Clover Band

TallGary’s Cantina

Asheville music showcase

Creatures Cafe

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Kings of the Foxfire (folk, rock)

Handlebar

Peggy Ratusz & friends (blues)

Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

Westville Pub

Beta Maxx (blues)

Friday Night Live w/ Disclaimer Comedy (standup) & Dueling Pianos (rock ‘n’ roll sing-a-long)

White Horse

Eleven on Grove

The 12 DJs of Christmas Highland Brewing Company

Common Foundation (reggae, ska), 6pm

BeLoved Community benefit (music, drag show & raffle)

Jack of Hearts Pub

Emerald Lounge

Jack of the Wood Pub

Fri., December 16

Pierce Edens & the Dirty Work (Americana, roots)

Jus One More

ARCADE

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Downstairs: “No Cover, No Shame” dance party w/ Abu Dissaray, 9pm Upstairs: DJ Capital, 9pm

Amy Steinberg & friends (music, poetry & comedy) Fred’s Speakeasy

Back stage: Elkmont Place w/ Sunshine and the Bad Things & Anatomy of Frank

Asheville Music Hall

Live music

Lobster Trap

Blind Lemon Phillips (funk, blues, R&B) Wild Wing Cafe

Acoustic music w/ Stevie P & friends

~ Limited First Come, First Serve Table Seating • Doors Open 6:00 pm ~

Friday, Jan. 27th Comedian Killer Beaz

Dave Desmelik Trio (Americana) Sanctum Sully (bluegrass) Thunder Head (rock) Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Saturday, Jan. 7th

Go to Vortexmarion.com for more information

Like us on facebook@Vortex Marion • Maple Leaf Drive, Marion 828.659.9151

DOWNTOWN ON THE PARK fine foods • 30 brews on tap • patio sports room • 110” projector • event space open 7 Days 11am - Late • Now Catering

LIVE MUSIC... NEVER A COVER Scott Raines Duo

Fri 12/16 (acoustic rock, jam)

Sat D.J. Moto 12/17 (dance, pop, old school) Open Regular Hours On Christmas Eve

7.#´S 0REMIERE !DULT ,OUNGE 3PORTS 2OOM

Music & EvEnts

thur, DeceMber 15

Doors 8:00 pM/shoW 9:00 pM - $7

Devon allMan’s honeytribe

Ladies & Couples Welcome Sports Lounge feat.

NBA & UFC on big screen Now featuring area’s only “Spinning Pole” Great Drink Specials Every Night

thur, DeceMber 15 starts 6:00 pM

valDez pairing @ French broaD chocolate lounge pint oF stout & tWo truFFles only $6 *sMooth sounDs oF ben hovey*

Valdez Bottles & Boxed truffles aVailaBle for Purchase

sat, DeceMber 17

shoW 8:00 pM/shoW 9:00 pM - $10

John Driskell hopkins & balsaM range FREE Parking weekdays after 5pm

Featuring special guests!

& all weekend (behind us on Marjorie St.)

Details & aDvance tickets:

Off Biltmore Ave. in the new Pack Square Park.

Taproom Hours: M-W: 4pm - 9pm th-sat: 2pm - 12am | sun: 2pm - 9pm

20 S. Spruce St. • 225.6944 PacksTavern.com

pisgahbrewing.com

see for yourself at

TheTreasureClub.com

New Hours:

Mon - Sat 6:30pm - 2am

5 2 0 S wa nna no a R i v e r R d , A s hev i l l e, NC 28805 • ( 828) 298-1 400 mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 67

Resources for Transformation and

Inner Peace

Books, Music, Crystals, Jewelry, Tarot Statuary, Candles, Incense and Events

Leo Johnson & the Space Heaters (acoustic, jazz, swing)

Paper Tiger (electronic, lounge) w/ Digital Butter

The Chop House

One Stop Deli and Bar

Fred’s Speakeasy

The Market Place

The Reckoning (Grateful Dead covers)

Karaoke

Orange Peel

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Ben Hovey (multi-instrumentalist, electronic, soul), 7:30-11pm

Blackberry Smoke (Southern rock) w/ Sunny Ledfurd

Pierce Edens (rock, Americana)

Pack’s Tavern

Jazzville Band

Scott Raines Duo (rock, jam)

Garage at Biltmore

5426 Asheville Hwy. (Hwy.25) ½ mi. S. I-26 exit 44 • Mon-Sat 10-6

crystalvisionsbooks.com • 687-1193

Get Down

White Horse

Linda Mitchell (blues, jazz)

Ocoai w/ Random Conflict & Killing Solves Everything

Scandals Nightclub

Southern Appalachian Brewery

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Circus Mutt (world appalachian, roots, rock)

Chatham County Line (electric holiday tour)

Sun., December 18

TallGary’s Cantina

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

August Black

5 Walnut Wine Bar

Live jazz w/ Mark Guest, 5-10pm

Bill Covington (piano classics & standards), 5:30-7:30pm Peggy Ratusz (blues), 8-11pm

The Market Place

Highland Brewing Company

JailBox Duo

Friday, December 23rd Paula Hanke & Daniel BarBer ElectroAcoustic Jazz Pop Soul

Saturday, December 24th

TBa

FEAT. ANDY THORN AND JEFF SIPE AFTER MIDNIGHT SHOW W/ DIRT HEAVY STEEL DRIVIN’ NASHVILLE ROCK BAND

TUESDAY 12/20 7 PM - 9PM SINGER SONGWRITER IN THE ROUND FEAT. TEN CENT POETRY AND JAILBOX DUO

FRIDAY 12/23

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Jailbox Duo (folk)

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Jack of the Wood Pub

AN UPRORIOUS DIXIELAND COCKTAIL!

SATURDAY 12/24

8deeZg @ZiiaZ

SANTA’S FAVORITE BLUEGRASS BAND!

68 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Jon Stickley Trio feat: Andy Thorn and Jeff Sipe (newgrass) Late night w/ Dirt Heavy (rock) Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Back stage: Brother Wolf benefit feat: Malcolm Holcombe, Ed Snodderly & Jelly Roll Johnson Lobster Trap

Jazz Trio Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Grateful Dead Night w/ Phuncle Sam (jam, folk, psychedelic)

Downstairs: “Bear Exploder” dance party w/ DJ Kipper Schauer, 9pm Upstairs: DJ Capital, 9pm

Pack’s Tavern

Asheville Music Hall

Archnemesis w/ Medisin & Arpetrio

John Driskell Hopkins & Balsam Range w/ special guests

Athena’s Club

Purple Onion Cafe

Mark Appleford (singer/songwriter, harmonica, guitar), 8-10pm DJ, 10pm-2am

Shane Pruitt Band (blues, jam, jazz)

Black Mountain Ale House

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack

DJ night w/ Jamie Munn Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Barrie Howard Blue Note Grille

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ARCADE

Jack of Hearts Pub

Ty Alan band (folk, rock)

ARCADE

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Jerome Widenhouse & His Roaring Lions (jazz), 7-9pm

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Sat., December 17

Acoustic Folk with Rich Harmonies

Darin Kohler

Hallelujah Hullabaloo w/ DJs Jamie Hepler, Whitney Shroyer & friends

Country Fried Friday w/ Texas Tony & the Tornado Ramblers

SATURDAY 12/17

Wild Wing Cafe

Blind Lemon Phillips (rock, blues), 6pm

Wild Wing Cafe

UNTRADITIONALLY TRADITIONAL BLUEGRASS

Terina Plyler

Patrick Fitzsimons (blues, world, roots), 7:30pm

Bob Margolin

Saturday, December 17th

La Befana (puppet show), 2pm Daniel Weiser, Kim Hughes & Jennifer Smith, 7pm

Good Stuff

White Horse

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The Swayback Sisters (soul, blues, folk)

Dance party, 10pm Drag show, 1am

Trivia night

Deep Down Americana

The Sharkadelics (rock), 9:30pm

Root Bar No. 1

Westville Pub

FRIDAY 12/16

Vortex

Fred Whiskin (piano)

The Free Flow Band (soul, funk)

Dave Desmelik Trio

Ruby Mayfield & Friends (dance, blues, rock)

Westville Pub

The Chop House

Friday, December 16th

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Women’s Wellbeing & Development Foundation benefit feat: Goadream, Krikett & more

Purple Onion Cafe

A Sanctuary for the Spiritual Seeker Since 1989

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Live jazz w/ Mark Guest, 5-10pm

DJ Moto (dance, pop) Pisgah Brewing Company

Red Stag Grill

Eric Ciborski (piano) Rocky & Howie Root Bar No. 1

Illicitizen (indie)

Patrick Fitzsimons (singer/songwriter) Dirty South Lounge

Drive-by Sci-Fi, 9pm Get Down

Karaoke Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Two Guitars (classical), 10am-noon Bob Zullo (jazz, pop), 6:30-10:30pm Hotel Indigo

Ben Hovey (multi-instrumentalist, electronic, soul), 7-10pm Jack of the Wood Pub

Irish session, 3 & 5pm Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Front stage: Aaron Price (piano) Lobster Trap

Leo Johnson (hot club jazz), 7pm Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Open mic w/ Ami Worthen, 8pm One Stop Deli & Bar

Bluegrass brunch w/ The Pond Brothers, 11am Orange Peel

Norma Jean (metal, hardcore) w/ Oh Sleeper, Memphis May Fire, Stray From The Path & Lower Than Atlantis Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Scandals Nightclub

Psychobilly Sock Hop Sundays

Boiler Room

Dance party, 10pm Drag show, 12:30am

Scandals Nightclub

Severance (rock, metal) w/ Left Undone

Shovelhead Saloon

Craggie Brewing Company

Gary Cody w/ Desperado

Gavin Conner (indie, folk), 6-8pm

Southern Appalachian Brewery

Carolina Rex (blues)

Creatures Cafe

Matt Chancey (folk) w/ Harvest and the Insignificant Others

Tennessee Hollow (rock, country, blues, roots), 8pm

Dance party, 10pm Drag show, 12am Southern Appalachian Brewery

Garry Segal (blues, Americana, roots, rock), 8pm The Altamont Theater

Eleven on Grove

Pat Flaherty

Michael Jefry Stevens Trio, noon The Trishas w/ Nikki Talley, 8pm

WestSound’s Red & Black Ball, 9pm

TallGary’s Cantina

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Emerald Lounge

Carolina Hot Grazz Quartet

Vocal jazz session w/ Sharon LaMotte, 7:30pm

Straightaway Cafe

clubdirectory 5 Walnut Wine Bar 253-2593 The 170 La Cantinetta 687-8170 All Stars Sports Bar & Grill 684-5116 Altamont Brewing Company 575-2400 The Altamont Theatre 575-2400 ARCADE 258-1400 Asheville Civic Center & Thomas Wolfe Auditorium 259-5544 Asheville Music Hall 255-7777 Athena’s Club 252-2456 Avenue M 350-8181 Barley’s Tap Room 255-0504 Beacon Pub 686-5943 Black Mountain Ale House 669-9090 Blend Hookah Lounge 505-0067 Blue Mountain Pizza 658-8777 Blue Note Grille 697-6828 Boiler Room 505-1612 BoBo Gallery 254-3426 Broadway’s 285-0400 Burgerworx 253-2333 The Bywater 232-6967 Clingman Cafe 253-2177 Club Hairspray 258-2027 Club Metropolis (No phone) The Chop House 253-1852 Craggie Brewing Company 254-0360 Creature’s Cafe 254-3636 Curras Nuevo 253-2111 Desoto Lounge 986-4828

Diana Wortham Theater 257-4530 Dirty South Lounge 251-1777 The Dripolator 398-0209 Dobra Tea Room 575-2424 Ed Boudreaux’s Bayou BBQ 296-0100 Eleven on Grove 505-1612 Emerald Lounge 232- 4372 Fairview Tavern 505-7236 Feed & Seed + Jamas Acoustic 216-3492 Firestorm Cafe 255-8115 Frankie Bones 274-7111 Fred’s Speakeasy 281-0920 Fred’s Speakeasy South 684-2646 French Broad Brewery Tasting Room 277-0222 French Broad Chocolate Lounge 252-4181 The Garage 505-2663 Get Down 505-8388 Good Stuff 649-9711 Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern 232-5800 Grove House Eleven on Grove 505-1612 The Grove Park Inn (Elaine’s Piano Bar/ Great Hall) 252-2711 The Handlebar (864) 233-6173 Hannah Flanagans 252-1922 Harrah’s Cherokee 497-7777 Havana Restaurant 252-1611 Haywood Lounge 232-4938 Highland Brewing Company 299-3370

White Horse

La Befana (holiday puppet show), 2pm

Mon., DeceMber 19 Dirty South Lounge

Tears in My Beers (DJ set), 9pm Get Down

clubland@mountainx.com

Holland’s Grille 298-8780 The Hop 254-2224 The Hop West 252-5155 Iron Horse Station 622-0022 Jack of the Wood 252-5445 Jerusalem Garden 254-0255 Jus One More 253-8770 Laurey’s Catering 252-1500 Lexington Avenue Brewery 252-0212 The Lobster Trap 350-0505 Luella’s Bar-B-Que 505-RIBS Mack Kell’s Pub & Grill 253-8805 The Magnetic Field 257-4003 Midway Tavern 687-7530 Mela 225-8880 Mellow Mushroom 236-9800 Mike’s Side Pocket 281-3096 Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill 258-1550 Northside Bar and Grill 254-2349 Olive Or Twist 254-0555 O’Malley’s On Main 246-0898 One Stop Bar Deli & Bar 236-2424 The Orange Peel 225-5851 Pack’s Tavern 225-6944 Pisgah Brewing Co. 669-0190 Poppie’s Market and Cafe 885-5494 Posana Cafe 505-3969 Pulp 225-5851 Purple Onion Cafe 749-1179 Rankin Vault 254-4993

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop, guitar), 6:30-10:30pm Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

The Roaring Lions

The Recovery Room 684-1213 Red Stag Grill at the Grand Bohemian Hotel 505-2949 Rendezvous 926-0201 Root Bar No.1 299-7597 Scandals Nightclub 252-2838 Scully’s 251-8880 Shovelhead Saloon 669-9541 Skyland Performing Arts Center 693-0087 Shifters 684-1024 Smokey’s After Dark 253-2155 Southern Appalacian Brewery 684-1235 Straightaway Cafe 669-8856 TallGary’s Cantina 232-0809 Red Room 252-0775 Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack 575-2260 Thirsty Monk South 505-4564 Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub 505-2129 Town Pump 669-4808 Tressa’s Downtown Jazz & Blues 254-7072 Vanuatu Kava 505-8118 The Village Wayside 277-4121 Vincenzo’s Bistro 254-4698 Vortex 659-9151 Wedge Brewery 505 2792 Well Bred Bakery & Cafe 645-9300 Westville Pub 225-9782 White Horse 669-0816 Wild Wing Cafe 253-3066

Karaoke

Tue., DeceMber 20

The Bywater

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Bluegrass jam, 8:30pm

Linda Mitchell (blues, jazz)

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Eleven on Grove

Common Visions w/ Cubicle & Robert Breast

Sharon LaMotte (vocal jazz), 7:30pm Karaoke, 10:30pm

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Westville Pub

Contra dance, 8pm

Open mic

Holiday party & dance w/ One Leg Up, 8:30pm

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Wild Wing Cafe

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Swing lessons, 6:30 & 7:30pm Tango lessons, 7pm

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 69

Country Gold w/ Micheal “Lucky” Luchtan (golden-era country), 9am Open mic, 7:30pm

Wild Wing Cafe

Phat Tuesdays

Wild Wing Cafe

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Video trivia, 8pm

Thu., december 22

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop guitar), 5:30-7:30pm Killer B’s (favorites by request), 8-11pm

Wed., december 21

Handlebar

ARCADE

Burgerworx

Tuesday swing dance, 7pm Gene Dillard Bluegrass Jam, 8:30pm

Karaoke, 10pm

Open mic, 7-9pm

Athena’s Club

Dirty South Lounge

Disclaimer Standup Lounge (comedy open mic), 9pm

Dirty Bingo, 9pm Ed Boudreaux’s Bayou BBQ

Blend Hookah Lounge

Lucky James (roots, blues, swing), 8-11pm

Open mic w/ Sven Hooson

Fred’s Speakeasy

Singer/songwriter in the round feat: Ten Cent Poetry & Jailbox Duo

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Wendy Hayes Quartet (blues, jazz), 8-11pm

Open mic

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Dirty South Lounge

Tyler Herring (folk, roots, blues)

Front stage: Jake Hollifield (blues, ragtime)

Wax in the Back, 9pm

Garage at Biltmore

Lobster Trap

Fred’s Speakeasy

Rotation

Jay Brown (Americana, folk), 7pm

Karaoke

Get Down

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Movie night

Matt Anderson (acoustic rock)

Michael Jefry Stevens (jazz)

Good Stuff

One Stop Deli & Bar

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Music trivia, 8pm Funk jam, 10pm

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop guitar), 5:30-7:30pm Killer B’s (favorites by request), 8-11pm

Gene Peyroux & the Acoustalectric Pedals of Love (rock, funk, soul)

Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Lobster Trap

Tuesday Rotations w/ Chris Ballard & guests, 10pm

Valorie Miller (Americana, folk)

Bob Zullo (jazz, pop guitar), 5:30-7:30pm Killer B’s (favorites by request), 8-11pm

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Hoopers Creek Cafe

TallGary’s Cantina

“Garyoke”

Chompin’ at the Bit String Band w/ Wayne Erbsen

Lobster Trap

The Altamont Theater

One Stop Deli & Bar

Hank Bones (“man of 1,000 songs”)

Original music series w/ Mike Holstein & Justin Watt

Jake HaldenVang Trio w/ Marcus King Band

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Pisgah Brewing Company

Jack 9 (Americana) w/ The Kelly Jo Connect

The Bywater

Ruph (Rush tribute)

One Stop Deli & Bar

Open mic w/ Taylor Martin, 8:30pm

TallGary’s Cantina

Graviton Project w/ Don Winsley

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Open mic, 7pm

Pisgah Brewing Company

World Beat Latin Music Jam

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Casey Driessen (folk)

Westville Pub

Whitney Moore (Latin, world)

PULP

Jack of the Wood Pub

A list Asheville?

----------------------------------------” ,

When you look back on 2011,

what stands out?

It’s not about what was the best or the worst, but what was memorable.

----------------------------------------Go to mountainx.com/alist for some guidelines, examples and to make your own. We’ll make our own A-list of our favorite entries and publish them Dec. 28 in our end-of-the-year issue (hint: it’s all about lists).

-----------You’ll also get a special prize if your list is published.-----------

----------------.To summarize, here’s a lisT: .----------------

Go to mountainx.com/alist

Make a list

Pick uP our Dec. 28 issue To see if your lisT maDe The lisT

Get a special prize from Mountain Xpress 70 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Max Melner Orchestra (jazz, funk), 10pm

Irish sessions, 6:30pm Open mic, 8:45pm

Ben Hovey (multi-instrumentalist, electronic, soul), 7-10pm

“

White Horse

Westville Pub

Garage at Biltmore

Hotel Indigo

What’s on your

Blues jam

Jeff & Justin (acoustic)

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Barrie Howard

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Open mic & bluegrass jam w/ Sherry Lynn

Slice of Life (comedy open mic), 8:30pm Purple Onion Cafe

Jeffery Hyde Thompson Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

DJ Marley Carroll, 9pm Red Stag Grill

Eric Ciborski (piano) Root Bar No. 1

Jay Brown (Americana, folk) TallGary’s Cantina

Asheville music showcase Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Peggy Ratusz & friends (blues) Westville Pub

Porch Dog Revival (roots) White Horse

Daniel Weiser’s “A Short History of the Piano, Part IV” Wild Wing Cafe

Acoustic music w/ Stevie P & friends

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Letters to Abigail (folk, Americana)

Anomaly (rock)

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Jason Moore (jazz)

WestSound (R&B)

Good Stuff

Vortex

Michael Cody

Blue Christmas w/ Blues Kravin (blues, R&B)

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Donna Germano (hammered dulcimer), 2-4pm Bill Covington (piano classics & standards), 5:30-7:30pm The Business (Motown funk), 8-11pm

Westville Pub

Handlebar

nied holiday storytelling)

Taylor Moore Band w/ Charles Wood, The Will, & more (rock, blues) Jack of Hearts Pub

Paula Hanke & Daniel Barber

White Horse

Donna Marie Todd w/ Will Straughn (accompaWild Wing Cafe

Country Fried Friday w/ Project: Cash

Sat., December 24

Jack of the Wood Pub

Lexington Ave Brewery (LAB)

Back stage: “Naughty or Nice” dance party Lobster Trap

Calico Moon (Americana, folk, country)

ARCADE

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Southbound Turnaround (Southern rock) w/ The Whiskey Gentry

B;JÊI IF;D: J?C; JE=;J>;H J>?I >EB?:7O

THUR 12/15

BETA MAXX

Warm up or Cool down during your holiday shopping

SAT 12/17

THE SWAYBACK SISTER

Sip on special Holiday Cocktails or share our Giant Margarita for two!!

Blues

Soulful Blues & Traditional Folk

Downstairs: “Bear Exploder” dance party w/ DJ

WED

$1 OFF ALL WHISKEY

Kipper Schauer, 9pm

THUR

$1 OFF ALL VODKA

FRI

$3.50 GIN & TONICS

SAT

$5 ROBO SHOTS

All you can eat wings on game days!!

guitar), 8-10pm

SUN

$1 OFF BLOODY MARY’S & MIMOSAS

MON

BUY 1 GET 1 HALF OFF APPETIZERS

>7FFO >EB?:7OI

DJ, 10pm-2am

Upstairs: DJ Capital, 9pm Athena’s Club

Mark Appleford (singer/songwriter, harmonica,

Pack’s Tavern

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Micah Hanks Duo (newgrass, jam)

Matt Getman (jazz)

Pisgah Brewing Company

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Ice Monkey (Jason Cope, Josh Daye, Woody Wood & Sam Earnhardt)

Bill Covington (piano classics & standards),

Black Mountain Ale House

Purple Onion Cafe

Mountain Feist (bluegrass)

Fred Whiskin (piano)

Kat Williams (blues, jazz, soul), 8-11pm

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Scandals Nightclub

Acoustic Swing

Dance party, 10pm Drag show, 1am

Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

MON - OPEN MIC TUE - BLUES JAM WED - MAX MELNER ORCHESTRA

Serving Traditional Mexican Fare

Savor all our fresh made to order Mexican dishes like taquitos, enchiladas, fajitas and tacos or Bite into our Angus beef burgers, sliders or spicy black bean veggie burger!

Mark Appleford (singer/songwriter, harmonica, guitar), 8-10pm DJ, 10pm-2am

Athena’s Club

A^kZ Bjh^X 5 NIGHTS A WEEK!

9V^an HeZX^Vah FULL BAR!

ARCADE

Firecracker Jazz Band

Fri., December 23 Downstairs: “No Cover, No Shame” dance party w/ Abu Dissaray, 9pm Upstairs: DJ Capital, 9pm

Trivia night

AMERICAN INSPIRED CUSINE | 27 BEERS ON TAP POOL | DARTS | Wii | 11’ SCREEN

5:30-7:30pm

$3.50 RUM & COKES TUE SUNDAYS FRIDAYS

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Ig^k^V C^\]i

M[ \eYki ed \eeZ m^_b[ oek ^Wl[ \kd Wed. - Fri. Open at 4 • Sat. & Sun. at 11

BRING A TEAM | PRIZES

OPEN TIL 2AM DAILY | KITCHEN OPEN LATE 777 HAYWOOD ROAD | 225-WPUB WWW.WESTVILLEPUB.COM

4 College Street • 828.232.0809

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Jack of the Wood Pub

Copper Kettle (bluegrass) Pack’s Tavern

Howie & Rocky (classic rock)

Friday Night Live w/ Disclaimer Comedy (standup) & Dueling Pianos (rock ‘n’ roll sing-a-long)

The Chop House

Live jazz w/ Mark Guest, 5-10pm

White Horse

Fred’s Speakeasy

The Market Place

Free Christmas Eve show feat: Kim Hughes, Bob

Live music

Patrick Fitzsimons (blues, world, roots), 7:30pm

Hinkle & more

Where Adult Dreams Come True $1 RENTALS ON SUNDAYS RENTAL PRICES 5 NIGHTS FOR $5.50 (Down from $6.99)

$5 GIFT CARD FOR EVERY $25 PURCHASE

20% OFF

with Purchase of $25 or more Must present coupon. Limit 1 per customer.

• • O P E N 7 D AY S • •

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

(828) 684-8250

2334 Hendersonville Rd.

(S. Asheville/Arden)

mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 71

theaterlistings Friday, dECEMBEr 16- Thursday, dECEMBEr 20

Due to possible last-minute scheduling changes, moviegoers may want to confirm showtimes with theaters.

Asheville PizzA & Brewing Co. (254-1281) n

Please call the info line for updated showtimes.

Bridesmaids (r) 10:00 (no show wed. Dec. 21) elf (Pg) 4:00 harold and maude (Pg) 10:00 wed. Dec 21 only how the grinch stole Christmas (Pg) 1:00 midnight in Paris (Pg-13) 7:00 n CArmike CinemA 10 (298-4452)

times good thru mon. dec. 19 Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chip-wrecked (g) 1:00, 1:50, 2:30, 3:20, 4:05, 4:45, 5:40, 6:20, 7:00, 8:00, 8:35, 9:15 Arthur Christmas 3d (Pg) 2:05, 4:40 Arthur Christmas 2d (Pg) 1:25, 4:00, 6:25, 8:50 happy Feet 2 3d (Pg) 1:05, 3:30 (no shows 12/18) happy Feet 2 2d (Pg) 4:45, 9:30 hugo 3d (Pg) 2:20, 5:20, 8:20 Jack and Jill (Pg) 7:10, 9:25 new Year’s eve (Pg-13) 12:55, 1:35, 3:35, 4:20, 6:15, 7:05, 9:00, 9:45 the twilight saga: Breaking dawn — Part 1 (Pg-13) 12:50, 3:50, 6:05, 6:50, 9:05, 9:50 (no 6:05 or 9:05 12/20)

CArolinA Asheville CinemA 14 (274-9500) n

Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chip-wrecked (g) 11:40, 2:10, 4:15, 7:15, 9:25 Anonymous (Pg-13) 11:25, 2:40, 7:10, 10:00 Arthur Christmas (Pg) 11:35, 1:55, 4:25 (sofa cinema) the descendants (r) 11:10, 2:00, 4:45, 7:25, 10:10 hugo 3d (Pg) 11:20, 2:25, 5:00, 7:50, 10:25 hugo 2d (Pg) 11:05, 1:50, 4:30, 7:05, 9:45 J. edgar (r) 7:20, 10:15 (sofa cinema) melancholia (r) 11:45, 3:30, 7:00, 10:00

the muppets (Pg) 11:15, 1:45, 4:10, 7:10, 9:40 new Year’s eve (Pg-13) 11:30, 2:15, 4:55, 7:45, 10:30 (sofa cinema) sherlock holmes: A game of shadows (Pg-13) 11:00, 12:00, 1:50, 3:10, 4:40, 7:00, 7:30, 9:50, 10:20 the sitter (r) 11:55, 2:30, 4:35, 7:55, 9:50 the twilight saga: Breaking dawn — Part 1 (Pg-13) 11:00, 1:40, 4:20, 7:35, 10:30 Young Adult (r) 11:50, 2:10, 4:15, 8:00, 10:20 n CineBArre (665-7776)

50/50 (r) 5:05, 7:20, 9:40 dolphin tale (Pg) 9:45 (sun only), 12:10, 2:40 Footloose (Pg-13) 9:30 (sun only), 12:00, 2:35, 5:10, 7:35, 10:10 the help (Pg-13) 9:55 (sun), 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 10:05 midnight in Paris (Pg-13) 10:00 (sun only), 12:15, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45 the three musketeers (Pg-13) 9:50 (sun only), 2:45, 5:15, 7:40, 10:00 n Co-ed CinemA BrevArd (883-2200)

sherlock holmes: A game of shadows (Pg-13) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 n ePiC oF hendersonville (693-1146) n Fine Arts theAtre (232-1536)

the descendants (r) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, late show fri-sat 9:20 take shelter (r) 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, late show fri-sat 9:40

FlAtroCk CinemA (697-2463) n

sherlock holmes: A game of shadows (Pg-13) 12:00 (fri-sun), 3:30, 7:00

regAl Biltmore grAnde stAdium 15 (684-1298) n

n united Artists BeAuCAtCher (298-1234)

for some theaters movie listings were not available at press time. Please contact the theater or check mountainx.com for updated information.

crankyhanke

movie reviews & listings by ken hanke

JJJJJ max rating

additional reviews by justin souther contact xpressmovies@aol.com

pickoftheweek Young Adult JJJJJ

Director: Jason reitman (Juno) Players: charlize theron, Patton oswalt, Patrick wilson, elizabeth reaser, collette wolfe, Jill eikenberry dArk ComedY drAmA

rAted r

The Story: A writer of teen fiction goes to her hometown to rekindle her highschool romance — regardless of the fact that the object of her affection is married and has just had a child.

The Lowdown: A hardcore comedydrama about a woman sliding more and more out of control and into self-delusion and alcohol. Often funny, sometimes brilliantly insightful, but always uncomfortable.

There’s no kind way of putting this: Jason Reitman’s Young Adults is simply not a nice movie. That’s also its strength, and the reason I have a hard time imagining it being a big hit — or maybe even moderate one. It’s an unflinching — albeit often bitingly funny — look into the life of an increasingly delusional functional alcoholic on the verge of losing that “functional” qualifier. And it’s not peddling any comforting bromides to make you feel better. What you’ve got here is a very good film — with flashes of brilliance — that defies you to like it. It’s about as cozy as cuddling with a porcupine, but it’s also at least close to a “must see” — assuming you’re up to it. But don’t just look at its pedigree — a reteaming of director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody — and expect another Juno, though the sensibility is not dissimilar.

Charlize Theron (in a perfect — and perfectly unlikable — performance) stars as Mavis Gary, a recently divorced 37-year-old writer of teen fiction. She didn’t create the series she writes, but she churns out the installments by hanging out in malls and picking up on current teenspeak. The problem is that the shelf-life of the series has run out, and Mavis is in the process of writing the final book. Or she is supposed to be, but she’s not having much luck at it. What she mostly does is avoid talking to her publisher while spending her time drinking and indulging in one-night stands. All this changes when she becomes obsessed with an e-mail from old boyfriend, Buddy Slade (Patrick Wilson), announcing the birth of his new baby.

The more she dwells on this, the more she concludes this is some kind of sign that she and Buddy “belong together.” So, of course, the only thing to do is slip out from under the arm of whoever she spent the night with, throw a few things in a bag — including a 20-year-old mixtape and her much-neglected Pomeranian

72 DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 • mountainx.com

Patton Oswalt and Charlize Theron both give remarkable performances in Jason Reitman’s bitterly funny Young Adult.

— and head back to her dinky hometown to rekindle the fire. In her mind, it’s as simple as that. How? Well, Mavis is a woman who is perfectly capable of handling not only her side of a relationship, but the other person’s as well.

As a result, she’s already decided that Buddy is trapped in a dreadful marriage and just dying for her to come rescue him.

Naturally, things don’t go quite as she expects them to — though she spends the bulk of the film misinterpreting everything that happens to mean what she wants it to. (The groundwork for this is borrowed to some degree from (500) Days of Summer, since Mavis voices her wrong-headed belief that The Graduate is a film about love conquering all.) There is a voice of reason in all this: Matt Freehauf (beautifully played by comic Patton Oswalt), a fellow Mavis should have known from high school (his locker was next to hers), but who wasn’t in her league. She only recognizes him as “the hate-crime guy,” famous in her mind for being beaten-up, maimed and left for dead by some high school jocks for being gay — except he wasn’t and isn’t gay.

Matt may spend his time playing with models and action figures and his home distillery (making Star Wars-themed bourbons), but he’s the opposite of the delusional Mavis and the only one who seriously tries to help her see what’s really going on. But the film isn’t going to take this down any expected path. Diablo Cody’s screenplay is too shrewd for that, while Reitman’s direction is too unsparing at every turn. The role may not glam down Theron the way Monster (2003) did, but it presents her in a warts-and-all manner that is often as far from glamorous as you’re ever likely to see. That she plays two days of the film in the same Hello

Kitty T-shirt and stretch pants she was in when she crawled out from under the arm of the onenight-stand guy at the start of the film says a lot.

Don’t misunderstand, the film is often very funny, but the humor is bitter and the film isn’t full of life lessons learned — though it may be said to be littered with life lesson for the taking. The question is whether or not any of them are taken. That Young Adult refuses to bend to conventions — especially in the scene late in the film between Mavis and Matt’s sister (TV actress Collette Wolfe), which is utterly against expectations — is refreshing. How general audiences will take to all this remains to be seen. Rated R for language and some sexual content. reviewed by Ken Hanke Starts Friday at Carolina Asheville Cinema 14

new YeAr’s eve J

Director: Garry marshall Players: hilary swank, katherine heiGl, ashton kutcher, Jon bon Jovi, robert De niro rom-Com

rAted Pg-13

The Story: A romantic ensemble piece centering around the denizens of New York City on New Year’s Eve. The Lowdown: A laborious exercise in middle-of-the-road romantic comedy.

Simply put, New Year’s Eve is less an original work of cinema than it is an anthology of bad ideas committed to film. The first of these may be the return of the team behind last year’s Valentine’s Day — director Garry Marshall with screenwriter Katherine Fugate — to once

again co-opt the structure of a much better film, Richard Curtis’ Love Actually (2003). (One could argue that Marshall and Fugate are the Goofus to Curtis’ Gallant.) The list of bad ideas hardly stops there, however. There’s the cast, for instance, which is being billed as an all-star ensemble, but is more accurately a parade of terminal B-listers, former Oscar winners in the full-on death throes of their screen careers, and a smattering of painful and often confusing cameos from a number of aging stars who only seem to be there for the paycheck. Overlong and overstuffed, New Year’s Eve is middle-of-the-road excess of the worst kind, and with nothing going for it as either cinema or entertainment.

I’m not being unfairly harsh here, either: This is 118 minutes of tedium. New Year’s Eve follows the intertwined lives of a handful of affluent New Yorkers as they navigate their romantic entanglements on the last day of the year. The movie’s only real draw is its star-studded cavalcade of famous performers, ranging in notoriety from Sarah Jessica Parker and Halle Berry to lesser-known faces like Marshall-regular Hector Elizondo. For the most part, the cast list reads like a People magazine hot list from 2004. The closest thing we get to a genuine star is Robert De Niro — presumably because Pacino was too busy making Jack and Jill to take the gig. (At least De Niro has enough sway to get one of those roles where he has the moviefied version of cancer and gets to lay around in bed the entire time.)

After years of turning in particularly odorous cheese, it’s hard to expect much more from Garry Marshall, but this time it couldn’t be more stale. We even get the predictably groan-worthy cameo from his sister, Penny. Since there’s very little redeeming about this movie, perhaps we can take a second to find what the film’s nadir is. Could it be vocal stylings of one Jon Bon Jovi performing soul covers as the improbably named rockstar Jensen? Or maybe it’s Ashton Kutcher’s desperate attempt at visual comedy by wearing what appears to be a teenage girl’s pajamas? Could it be Katherine Heigl’s silver dress that makes her look like a baked potato?

Actually, no, none of these are the low point. It was a trick question, because there’s not a low point. Marshall manages to keep the movie on the same even keel of boring, painful pap. That is an achievement in-and-of-itself, I suppose.

Rated PG-13 for language including some sexual references. reviewed by Justin Souther Playing at Carmike 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Epic of Hendersonville, Reagal Biltmore Grande

the sitter JJJ

DIRECToR: DAVID GoRDoN GREEN (Your HigHness) PLAyERS: JoNAH HILL, MAx RECoRDS, SAM RoCKWELL, ARI GRAyNoR, J.B. SMooVE ComedY

rAted r

The Story: A lazy babysitter and the kids he’s watching get entangled in a series of misadventures when a crazed drug dealer decides he wants them dead.

The Lowdown: An agreeable cast and a plot that’s more amusing than outright funny makes for a harmless homage to

’80s teen flicks.

Looking at director David Gordon Green’s post-naval-gazing indie output, The Sitter might be his best film yet. That’s a bit of a back-handed compliment, since our sample size consists of nothing more than the duo of weed-centric opuses Pineapple Express (2008) and the unrepentantly awful Your Highness (2011). What works best about The Sitter is that it’s the most straightforward of these films. Normally, I’d say that lack of ambition isn’t something to shoot for, but in Green’s case — whose idea of “high concept” seems to include a half-hour of jokes involving the well-endowed nether regions of a minotaur — it’s a blessing.

At its core, The Sitter is a succinct — if none too innovative — reworking of Chris Columbus’ Adventures in Babysitting (1987). It’s also a film that plays as a loving tribute to the ’80s teen flicks of filmmakers like John Hughes. While decidedly more R-rated, The Sitter follows the same basic plot as Columbus’ film: A babysitter (in this case Jonah Hill instead of Elisabeth Shue) heads out into the big city with the kids he’s watching, struggling to maintain order while getting all of them into a variety of misadventures. That R-rating largely comes in the form of stronger language and a plot that revolves around our protagonists being hunted down by a crazed, eccentric coke dealer (Sam Rockwell).

But even with a sense of humor that often wades into crudeness, somehow The Sitter comes across as the most mature of Green’s recent output.

Sandwiched between the random bouts of vulgarity, there’s nary a weed joke to be found.

(What does it say about a director’s filmography when they’re being praised for not being such a pothead?)

A lot of this newfound maturity has to do with the Hughes influence, most notably in how welldrawn the characters are. Hill’s Noah has daddy issues, for instance, but these aren’t just played for laughs. They’re realistic issues and never dwelled on. As we later discover — particularly in his relationship with his mother (Jessica Hecht, J. Edgar) — he also isn’t quite the selfish cad he’s painted as at the beginning of the film.

Noah actually seems to grow and learn, eventually helping the kids he’s watching. Yes, the film is formulaic and overly sentimental on occasion, but it’s done with a fundamental respect for the characters. In watching how Noah handles the teenage Slater’s (Max Records, Where the Wild Things Are) confusion over his own sexual orientation, it’s clear that, for all the crassness, the movie does have its heart in the right place. This doesn’t make up for the film’s lack of outright funny moments, but it certainly helps.

Another thing that helps The Sitter is its strong cast. Hill finally gets a wholly likable character in a comedy, while Rockwell’s coked-up, emotionally needy antagonist — complete with a cadre of body-building henchmen — is one of the year’s better villainous creations. While the film is painless, however, it isn’t exactly fresh, which is what keeps it from being fully recommended.

Rated R for crude and sexual content, pervasive language, drug material and some violence. reviewed by Justin Souther Playing at Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande, United Artists Beaucatcher Cinema 7

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mountainx.com • DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011 73

specialnotice For this week’s Thursday Horror Picture Show, Asheville Film Society, and other special screenings visit mountainx.com/movies.

startingfriday Alvin And the ChiPmunks: ChiP-wreCked

Let’s be honest here: Nobody who is even slightly interested in going to see this latest Alvin and the Chipmunks movie cares what anyone thinks the quality will be — or even what the damned thing is about. It’s a movie about annoying singing rodentia, the further personal embarrassment of Jason Lee and about getting families with small children to break loose with the spondulicks for the amusement of their brood. Quite obviously, this one will have them shipwrecked and stranded on an island. (G)

sherloCk holmes: A gAme oF shAdows

There will again be a wailing and gnashing of teeth from purists over the release of another Guy Ritchie-made Sherlock Holmes movie starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. Those of us less distilled in our tastes will be looking forward to another potentially enjoyable romp — and one that promises Holmes’ encounter with his archnemesis Professor Moriarty (TV actor Jared Harris), not to mention the English-language debut of Noomi Rapace (the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo). According to Ritchie, this one will be closer in style to the sort of movies he’s best known for like Snatch (2000) and RocknRolla (2008) — and that might prove very interesting indeed.(PG-13)

tAke shelter

See review in “Cranky Hanke.”

Young Adult

See review in “Cranky Hanke.”

tAke shelter JJJJ

DIRECToR: JEFF NICHoLS (sHotgun stories) PLAyERS: MICHAEL SHANNoN, JESSICA CHASTAIN, ToVA STEWART, SHEA WHIGHAM, KATHy BAKER mYstiCAl/AllegoriCAl/PsYChologiCAl drAmA

rAted r

The Story: A man’s life starts to fall apart when he begins having troubling visions that are either actual warnings or the onset of mental illness.

The Lowdown: A disturbing — and rather depressing — film that works more than it doesn’t, and which can be read in several different ways.

Jeff Nichols’ Take Shelter is many things — some of them brilliant, some frustrating. It’s either a horror story, a psychological drama or a metaphor for our time — or maybe it’s all of those things. It’s also more slowly paced than it needs to be and a good 15 minutes too long. And there’s something just a little too M. Night Shyamalan about it for my comfort. It’s a film that’s easier to admire (at least in part) than actually like, but it’s also a difficult film to ignore.

Curtis (Michael Shannon) is a solidly lowermiddle-class kind of guy with a good bluecollar job in which he’s moving up. He has a nice wife, Samantha (Jessica Chastain), who augments the family income with sewing jobs and selling sewing craft work at a flea market.

They have a deaf daughter, Hannah (newcomer Tova Stewart), but she’s doing fine and they’re coping. They live in a pleasant enough, if largely personality-challenged house, though since neither of them boast much in the way of a personality (one of the film’s flaws for me), that’s not unreasonable. It would seem that things are pretty good for them, but that may be illusory. The question the film poses is: What kind of illusion is it?

You see, Curtis keeps having visions or premonitions — or perhaps hallucinations. He sees ominous storm clouds massing and abnormal amounts of lightning. Birds fly in strange patterns, amassing in swirling — even threatening — crowds. He sees strange rain — like motor oil — falling. In some cases, it’s unclear — deliberately — whether these visions are visible only to him or if others just aren’t looking when he does. It gets worse as these things

start invading his dreams with ever more nightmarish content. Friends turn on him. The family dog attacks him. He becomes paranoid about them in his waking life. Strange faceless people in what sometimes look like hospital gowns attack him or Hannah. Sometimes what he dreams has physical hangovers into the day.

Eventually, he’ll envision even worse things.

But it’s all tied to this gigantic impending storm, so he becomes obsessed with improving and expanding the storm shelter in his backyard.

But is any of this real? Or is Curtis drifting into paranoid schizophrenia like his mother (Kathy Baker) did at just about the same age he is now? That’s the question, and it’s not one easily answered — perhaps the film never answers it at all. He was only 10 when she was put into an assisted-living facility. His one encounter with her provides no answer, though she says dreams were not part of it. His brother, Kyle (Ray McKinnon), was 17 at the time and might know how she was behaving to see if it started like this, but in the one encounter he has with him Curtis doesn’t ask.

Whether there’s a real threat or only an imagined one is almost immaterial, because Curtis’ life is on a downward spiral, which is what the film is really all about. Whether what he sees is a portent — even if it’s a metaphor for the impending demise of the middle-class life he’s known (a situation exacerbated by his increasingly erratic behavior) — or if he’s drifting into mental illness, his life is unravelling at an alarming rate. This will lead to an ending that’s good for hours worth of post-viewing debate — and probable polarized readings. The same can be said of the film itself.

In any case, Take Shelter is a deeply disturbing film when it’s at its best — and it’s at its best a good bit of the time. I’m not as jazzed about the performances as I’m apparently supposed to be, and I was more impressed by those two scenes with Kathy Baker and Ray McKinnon than I was with leads Shannon and Chastain.

With Shannon, I think I’m suffering from a degree of burnout over seeing him in this kind of role (Bug, Revolutionary Road), while Chastain simply didn’t impress me here as she has in other films. But in the main, Take Shelter is a worthy film. Whether it quite succeeds I’m less sure of. Rated R for some language. reviewed by Ken Hanke Starts Friday at Fine Arts Theatre

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PRESTON PAINTING AND RESTORATION Reliable, detail oriented. 20 years of experience serving designers and homeowners on finish painting, trim carpentry and restoration projects.

Local references and insured.

Anthony Preston: (828) 367-1418.

CHRISTOPHER’S COMPUTERS • Computer Slow? Call Christopher’s Computers at 828-670-9800 and let us help you with PC and Macintosh issues: networking, virus/malware removal, tutoring, upgrades, custom-built new computers, etc.

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Moving ASHEVILLE AREA MOVING. “WE MOVE IT ALL.” • Local Moving Starting at $60/HR • Long Distance Starting at $195 • Loading/Unloading/Rearrange at $15/HR Per Man • Deliveries Starting at $30 (828)779-1765. ashevillearemoving@gmail.com

2BR/1BA. Dog friendly large yard. Nice cul-de-sac neighborhood. Walk to town.

Great condition. $124,900.

253-9451.

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APPLIANCE ZEN • The best choice for appliance repair in Asheville. With over 12 years in appliance repair. The choice is easy. Locally owned. Fast.

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Insured. Bonded. • Sabastian, 828-505-7670. www.appliancezen.com HIRE A HUSBAND Handyman Services.

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Call 828-702-2829

p.77

• Re-cut the base of the stem and stand it in water as soon as you get it home.

• Store the tree outdoors, standing in a bucket of water, until you bring it inside.

COMPANION • CAREGIVER • LIVE-IN Alzheimer’s experienced. • Heart failure and bed sore care.

CarePartners Hospice recommended. • Nonsmoker, with cat, seeks live-in position.

• References. • Arnold, (828) 273-2922.

• Be sure your tree stand is large enough to hold adequate water. Check the water level daily and keep the cut surface covered with water at all times. A cut Christmas tree will absorb between 2 pints and one gallon of water per day. Use plain water, no additives.

Commercial Listings

For more information, call the Buncombe County Cooperative Extension at 255-5522.

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• Purchase a fresh tree with needles that don’t fall off when shaken.

Caregivers

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p.75

You’ve picked the perfect tree — now how do you keep it looking beautiful all through the holiday season?

• Keep the tree away from heat sources and warm drafts. Use an anti-transpirant spray to help slow the drying out of needles.

ASHEVILLE Sweet, 1920’s cottage in Central Asheville.

About Green Living

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p.78

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WNC Green Building Council www.wncgbc.com

HANDYMAN BUSINESS FOR SALE Starting your own Home Repair Business and would appreciate a jump start?

I am relocating out of state. I am seeking a reputable buyer for my established business serving clients for over 7 years in the Asheville area. This includes all of my equipment, supplies and tools. Call soon.

828-273-5271.

WINE SHOP FOR LEASE 2,091 square foot, turn-key wine shop available for lease at $18/sf. Located in Gerber Village on Hendersonville Road in South Asheville.

Contact Jeff Kenrick, Key Commercial Real Estate, (828)684-2929 ext. 116.

Commercial Property

Commercial/ Business Rentals

Historic Miles Building. 280-sq.

OFFICE SUITES Downtown Asheville. 1-5 office suites from 490 sq. ft. to 3,200 sq. ft.

Modern finishes, elevator, central air. Affordable, full service rates. G/M Property Group 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com

MONTFORD Downtown office/retail/flex space. Street level, prime location across from the Chamber of Commerce. Approx. 150-1400 sf. Plenty of parking. Mod. gross lease. $300/month and up. Call 828-254-4440.

Utilities and internet included;

Rentals

p.79 BILTMORE FOREST SOUTH ASHEVILLE • 2-story carriage house. 1BR, 1.5BA. Hardwood

DOWNTOWN OFFICE SPACE •

ft single room. $500/month.

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2BR, 1BA OFF TUNNEL RD. • Easy access to I-240, and along city bus line.

Washer/Dryer hookups, central A/C. Security deposit and 1/2 of first month rent due upon renting. Available immediately.

Please contact Patricia at 828645-7166.

condition, lots of character.

air, W/D connections. Excellent

Includes internet, cable TV and water. $650/month.

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4BR, 1.5 BA WEST ASHEVILLE • Water, garbage included. On bus line. $769/month.

Call 828-252-9882.

air, W/D connection. Nice area.

Only $545/month. No pets.

828-252-4334.

• DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011

75

CHARMING STUDIO HISTORIC MONTFORD • Close to UNCA and Downtown.

Spacious efficiency with separate sunny kitchen/dining area, big bath, good closet space. Hardwood floors, new appliances, $675/month includes all utilities. No dogs.

Year lease, security deposit, credit check required. For appt: Graham Investments 828-253-6800.

EAST ASHEVILLE • 2BR, 1BA unfurnished apartments for rent. $610/month. 1/2 off 1st month’s rent. Please contact Patricia at 828-645-7166.

FULLY FURNISHED APARTMENT IN FAIRVIEW, NC $750/mo. 1BR/1BA. Fully furnished with utilites included.

Free wi-fi/internet. New kitchen w/granite coutertops.

15min to Asheville.

828-215-2993. marshagwalker@yahoo.com.

LIVE ON THE RIVER! • EAST 2BR, 2BA, all appliances, including WD. • Large closets, storage. Covered parking. • Covered porch. Open deck.

Great views! • Quiet and convenient. • Pets considered. $725/month. 828-779-2736, 828-215-4596.

NORTH ASHEVILLE - QUAINT STUDIO/GARAGE APARTMENT-$725/MONTH This appealing apartment is located on Warwick Place behind 17 Woodvale and offers huge storage. Available January 1st. 704-873-3361

WEST ASHEVILLE • Spacious 1BR. 1BA available mid December. Hardwood floors, two blocks from Haywood Street, and great neighbors.

Backyard backs up to a Wildlife Refuge. $715/month.

Call for an appointment.

Eric (310) 387-9388.

WEST-ACTON WOODS APTS • 2BR, 2BA, 1100 sq.ft. $800/month. Includes water and garbage pickup. Sorry, no pets. Call 253-0758. Carver Realty.

Mobile Homes For Rent WEST ASHEVILLE • 3BR, 2BA Mobile. W/D connections. On bus line. Excellent condition.

Quiet park. Accepting Section 8. Only $625/month.

828-252-4334.

Condos/ Townhomes For Rent SKYLAND • 2BR, 2BA. 1,200 sq.ft. Vaulted ceilings, gas, fireplace, W/D hookup, D/W, refrigerator, stove, balcony. $755/month - deposit. Call Bill, 828-423-3355.

Homes For Rent BEAUTIFUL BILTMORE LAKE HOME 4BR/2.5BA $2,250 per Month. For more information visit www.rentals.com/NorthCarolina/Candler/r1166231/ or call John at 205.213.4203.

CENTRAL 2BR, 1BA • Hardwood floors. Sorry, no pets. $700/month.

828-253-0758. Carver Realty.

WEST 3BR, 2BA • Fenced yard. Sorry, no pets $800/month. 828-253-0758.

Carver Realty.

WEST 3BR, 2BA. Full basement. 1 car garage. Sorry, no pets. $950/month.

828-253-0758. Carver Realty.

EAST ASHEVILLE Only 10 minutes to downtown. Nice 3BR, 1.5BA home in Haw Creek. Hardwood floors, refrigerator, washer and dryer included. $975/month with 1 year lease. (828) 231-9411. jivarner@aol.com NORTH • NEAR CHARLOTTE ST. 2BR, 1BA, office, WD, hardwood floors. Fenced yard.

Carport, garage. Pets considered. $1,150/month.

First + last + deposit.

828-545-0043, 828-669-8661.

NORTH 2BR, 1BA • Gas heat.

Hardwood floors. Sorry, no pets. $825/month.

828-253-0758. Carver Realty.

NORTH ASHEVILLE • Townhome 2BR, 1BA. 1 mile to downtown. On busline. $495/month. 828-252-4334.

RIVER-SIDE HOME NEARS MARS HILL Lovingly cared for.

2BR, living room, dining room, study, W/D hook-up, porches, NO dogs, max 2 occupants. $650/mo. Leave message at 828-689-2322.

WEST ASHEVILLE 3BR, 2BA • Den, large basement with shop area, washer, dryer, dishwasher, wooded lot in a quiet West Asheville neighborhood between Vance Elementary and the Malvern Hills pool. $975/month + utilities. 9 Winnfred St. Available approximately January 7. Call 828-683-1180 for an application.

WEST ASHEVILLE HOUSE 2BR/1BA, office. Hardwood, dishwasher, natural gas furnace, kitchen stove, sky light. Shed, W/D room, fenced back yard, garden. Application, References, Deposit required.

WINTER SPECIAL MOUNTAIN COTTAGE, 20 MINUTES FROM ASHEVILLE Professionally restored, 3BR/2BA with master suite. Fireplace and woodstove, large screen porch and deck, over 2000 sq. ft. $1350/month. Winter Special $1,150/month for the 1st 3 months. Property Management of Asheville. 828-253-2537. sansparrow@charter.net. www.propertymanagement ofasheville.com.

jobs Short-Term Rentals

Administrative/ Office

15 MINUTES TO ASHEVILLE Guest house, vacation/short term rental. Newly renovated, complete with everything including cable and internet.

Weaverville area. • No pets please. (828) 658-9145. mhcinc58@yahoo.com

OFFICE COORDINATOR ASAP offers an exciting opportunity for a talented and dedicated office coordinator to join our team. Visit www.asapconnections.org/ jobs-office-coordinator.html

Employment

General $$$HELP WANTED$$$ Extra Income! Assembling CD cases from Home! No Experience Necessary! Call our Live Operators Now! 1-800-4057619 EXT 2450 www.easywork-greatpay.com (AAN CAN) ASPIRING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Earn an income you deserve, Company looking for online trainers.

Flexible hours, work from home www.2dreambigger.com fp@hatchellburt.com BECOME AN AVON INDEPENDENT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Only $10 to start your own business!

Unlimited earnings! Work from home and no inventory to keep! Contact Airley Ferrell for more info! 828-989-3093 airleykay@gmail.com youravon.com/airleyferrell INCOME TAX PREPARATION CLASS Jan. 2 to Jan. 6 2012.

North Asheville; 3 hour-per day classes limited to ten students who then can test for IRS and corporate acceptance to prepare individual income tax returns for Liberty Tax Service.

Part time employment till 4/15/12. 828 505-2002. jkdenny@libertytax.com

KITCHEN/DELIVERY AID • Do you have experience in food service? Would you like to work Monday-Friday with an organization dedicated to helping children succeed?

Eliada Homes is in search of someone to assist in our kitchen. • Duties would include stocking, cleaning, assisting with food preparation as needed, and packing and delivering food to all areas of our 200 acre campus. • Must be 21 or older with a clean driving record. Hours are Monday-Friday from approximately 9am-2:30pm.

For more information or to apply go to www.eliada.org/employment.

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Sales/ Marketing

EUROPEAN DETOX CLINIC In Asheville have rooms available for MD, OMD, DC, PA, ND, LAc or others. Part or full time.

Must have own patients\clients and necessary equipment. Also looking for Colon Hydrotherapist with own clients to share well-equipped room. Please call (828) 290-2470.

Human Services

EXHIBIT SALES PROFESSIONAL We are the premiere “green” event production company, looking for a seasoned sales pro to join our sales team WOULD $500 EXTRA A MONTH MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Looking to help stay-at-home moms/dads. PT sales for Dallas environmental company. Call 423-791-5563.

Hotel/ Hospitality FRONT DESK CLERKS NEEDED Front desk clerks needed at Downtown Inn. Starting salary $9 per hour.

Apply at 120 Patton Ave or email jolinerobinson@hotmail.com.

Medical/ Health Care

CARE MANAGERS FOR COMMUNITY CARE OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA Community Care of WNC is looking for full-time Care Managers. RN required.

Minimum of 2 years case management experience preferred. Bilingual in Spanish a plus. Submit resume to hr@ccwnc.org or fax to 828-259-3875.

DO YOU HAVE DENTRIX EXPERIENCE? Do you have dental insurance experience?

Do you have the abilty to discuss treatment with knowledge so our patients understand the importance of scheduling? Can you handle several tasks at the same time? We are interviewing for someone who has all this experience and a great attitude with a lot of energy. • Dealing with patients is a major part of this position along with filing insurance, follow up and collections. • Must be able to get the job done with efficiency as you will be doing several tasks at a time. If you are qualified please apply to clegrow@sbcgloabl.net

FAMILIES TOGETHER INC. Due to continuous growth in WNC, Families Together, Inc is now hiring licensed professionals and Qualified Professionals in Buncombe, McDowell, Madison, Rutherford, Henderson, and Transylvania Counties. • Qualified candidates will include • LPC’s, LCSW’s, LMFT’s, LCAS’s, PLCSW’s, or LPCA’s and Bachelor’s and Master’s Qualified Professionals. • FTI provides a positive work environment, flexible hours, room for advancement, health benefits, and an innovative culture. • www.familiestogether.net • Candidates should email resumes to humanresources @familiestogether.net LPN Mountain Area Recovery Center is seeking an LPN to fill a position in our outpatient opioid treatment facility located in Asheville. Candidate will work 30 hours per week, primarily morning hours with some flexibility needed, as well as some short weekend hours.

Must be detail oriented, organized, some computer skills, good communicator.

Please e-mail resume to rhonda.ingle@marc-otp.com or fax to attention: Rhonda Ingle at 828.252.9512.

Mountain Area Recovery Center is an equal opportunity employer.

FOSTER CARE HOMES • HAYWOOD COUNTY AREA Seeking foster care homes to provide care for adults with developmental disabilities. • Must possess high school diploma/GED, drivers license and pass a background check.

Call (828) 299-1720 THERAPIST for Intensive InHome Team in Buncombe County, licensed or provisional, cover letter and resume to westernregion @carolinaoutreach.com

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF HENDERSONVILLE, has opportunities for Qualified Mental Health Professionals to join our team. Qualified candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in a social services field and a minimum of 1 year experience with children with mental illness.

FPS offers a competitive and comprehensive benefit package. To join our team, please send your resume to jdomansky@fpscorp.com FULL-TIME DAY TREATMENT SUPERVISOR IN HAYWOOD COUNTY • Working with adolescents that have mental health/substance abuse diagnoses. LCSW preferred, provisional will be considered.

Responsibilities: • Treatment planning • Maintain communication with all parties involved • Provide behavioral interventions • Facilitate team meetings • Completing daily documentation of services provided • Supportive counseling of clients and caregivers. aspireapplicants @yahoo.com

LEAD RESIDENTIAL COUNSELOR NEEDED • Eliada Homes is seeking a Lead Residential Counselor (LRC) to supervise during second shift hours. • Responsibilities entail providing individualized treatment to our students while maintain a supportive and therapeutic environment.

• Must provide leadership to residential staff by role modeling crisis prevention and take a leadership role during crisis intervention. • Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services field and six months behavioral health experience is preferred.

To apply, go to www.eliada.org/employment.

AVAILABLE POSITIONS • MERIDIAN BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Haywood County: Registered Nurse (RN) Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT) Position available within a community-based, multidisciplinary team supporting people in recovery from mental illness and substance abuse. Psychiatric experience preferred but not required. Please contact Mason Youell, mason.youell @meridianbhs.org Cherokee County: JJTC Team Seeking Licensed/Provisionally Licensed Therapist in Cherokee County for an exciting opportunity to serve predominately court referred youth and their families through Intensive In-Home and Basic Benefit Therapy. For more information contact Aaron Plantenberg, aaron.plantenberg @meridianbhs.org Clinician Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT) Must have a Master’s degree and be license-eligible.

Please contact Ben Haffey, ben.haffey@meridianbhs.org Registered Nurse (RN) Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT) Position available within a community-based, multidisciplinary team supporting people in recovery from mental illness and substance abuse. Psychiatric experience preferred but not required. Please contact Ben Haffey, ben.haffey @meridianbhs.org Qualla Boundary: JJTC Team Seeking Licensed/Provisionally Licensed Therapist on Qualla Boundary for an exciting opportunity to serve predominately Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian court referred youth and their families through Intensive In-Home and Basic Benefit Therapy. For more information, contact Lesa Childers, lesa.childers @meridianbhs.org Swain County: JJTC Team Seeking Licensed/Provisionally Licensed Therapist in Swain County for an exciting opportunity to serve predominately court referred youth and their families through Intensive In-Home and Basic Benefit Therapy. For more information contact Aaron Plantenberg, aaron.plantenberg @meridianbhs.org • For further information and to complete an application, visit our website: www.meridianbhs.org

PARKWAY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH has an opening for a part time (3 days per week) or full time position for a licensed counselor, LCSW preferred, in our Hendersonville Office starting in January. • Experience working with dual (MH/SA) clients very important.

• Candidate should be comfortable with providing individual and group therapy. • Familiarity with State funding and paperwork a plus.

Parkway offers excellent benefits, a positive stable working environment and competitive salaries. If interested, please email your resume to slayton@parkwaybh.com

THE ASHEVILLE OFFICE OF FAMILY PRESERVATIONS SERVICES • Is seeking an LCSW and QMHP for adult service lines. Also seeking an LCSW to work with young children and on Intensive Home Team. Please send resumes to csimpson@fpscorp.com.

UNIVERSAL MH/DD/SAS is seeking a Psychiatrist to provide 16 hours per week to work on an ACTT (Assertive Community Treatment Team) team for our Asheville location.

Please email Patra at plowe@umhs.net to apply or visit us on the web at www.umhs.net.

UNIVERSAL MH/DD/SAS is seeking Licensed or Provisionally Licensed Therapists to lead our Intensive In Home Team or Community Support Team for our Asheville and Forest City locations. Please email Patra at plowe@umhs.net to apply or visit us on the web at www.umhs.net.

UNIVERSAL MH/DD/SAS is seeking Licensed or Provisionally Licensed Therapists to provide therapy in School and/or office based settings for our Asheville location, Please call Patra at 828-225-4980 ext 302 to apply or visit us on the web at www.umhs.net F/T QP FOR IIH PROGRAM • To help troubled adolescents build skills to help them better cope with life challenges.

Position is open in the Waynesville area. Location: 33 Sharon Lynne Way, Clyde NC 28707. Resume to aspireapplicants@yahoo.com OR fax to 828-627-1307 F/T STAFF FOR DAY TREATMENT PROGRAM • Work with adolescents with mental health and/or substance abuse needs.

Position is open in the Waynesville area. Location: 33 Sharon Lynne Way, Clyde NC 28707. Resume to aspireapplicants@yahoo.com OR Fax 828-627-1307.

Professional/ Management COMMUNITY ORGANIZER The Western North Carolina Alliance (WNCA) seeks a Community Organizer to organize citizens on environmental issues and support membership outreach and development efforts throughout the region. For more information please visit www.wnca.org. Application deadline: December 31, 2011.

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT/MARKETING Children First/CIS is seeking a Director of Development and Marketing. • Cover letter and resume to jobs@childrenfirstbc.org by Friday, December 16. For more information, visit www.childrenfirstbc.org.

LICENSED THERAPIST Great opportunity to build a practice with referrals. Must be experienced with play therapy and working with children and families. Must be able to bill for Medicaid. Contact Bruce at The Relationship Center, (828) 777-3755.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR Local child and youth-serving organization seeks Coordinator to oversee team working with children. Requires 3 years non-profit experience, supervisory experience, 4 year degree in Social Services related field. • Duties: Program management, evaluation, training, member recruitment, team building, grant administration, and managing collaborations. • To apply, email teamcoordinatorjob @gmail.com

Computer/ Technical

CREATIVE TEAM PLAYER NEEDED TO PROVIDE PROJECT COORDINATION • Eliada Homes is seeking a Software Technical Support Specialist to add to their team.

• The Software Technical Support Specialist will manage the implementation of software used in conjunction with treatment services that includes technical support and training. • Past project coordination and software implementation preferred. • Position is full time with benefits and flexible schedule.

For more information or to apply, go to www.eliada.org/employment.

PT HELP DESK TECHNICIAN Part time weekdays, some nights/weekends. Proficient in Microsoft Office and Windows; excellent customer service skills. Email resume to kcraig@vwlawfirm.com.

Career Training EARN $75-$200 HOUR (Now 25% Off) Media Makeup an Airbrush Training. For Ads, TV, Film, Fashion. 1 wk class and Portfolio. awardmakeupschool.com 310364-0665 (AAN CAN)

Announcements ADOPTION: Loving, educated couple hopes to adopt a baby.

We promise a lifetime of love and opportunity for a baby.

Expenses paid. Lori and Mike: 1-888-499-4464. www.TeachAndDoc.com THE JAZZ SALON CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH LIVE JAZZ AT YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS. The Jazz Salon features Steinway Artist, pianist Michael Jefry Stevens in solo, duo, trio, quartet or large ensemble format. Celebrate the holiday season with your favorite tunes from the 30’s and 40’s. mjsjazz@mac.com

Lost & Found LOST RING • REWARD NSSA All American Team Ring, inscribed F. Boeheim. Lost Friday November 25, on Tunnel Road, near Waffle House.

Reward. 273-9142.

Classes & Workshops SPIRAL SPIRIT ECSTATIC DANCE On Wednesday nites, we dance a total body experience of the wave at Sol’s Reprieve 11 Richland St in West Asheville. Warmup at 6:00pm and circle at 6:30pm, the fee is $5.00!

Contact Karen azealea10@yahoo.com or Cassie elementsmove@yahoo.com

Mind, Body, Spirit

Bodywork

#1 AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY CONSCIOUS MASSAGE CENTER • 1224 Hendersonville Road. Asheville. $29/hour. • 15 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. thecosmicgroove.com

AWESOME MASSAGE CONTINUING EDUCATION! 10 different low cost classes including Ashiatsu barefoot massage! Brett Rodgers NCBTMB #451495-10 www.vitalitymassage.net (828) 645-5228 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 TOP NOTCH PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE! Deep tissue specialist. Tension nd pain release! Brett Rodgers - LMBT #7557 vitalitymassage.net (828) 645-5228.

Musicians’ Xchange

Musical Services

Pets For Sale

General Merchandise

For Sale

Jewelry CUSTOM 14KT SOLITAIRE Meet Jack! Miniature Smooth Dachshund. Shown here at 6 weeks old. AKC registered.

Sweet, open and friendly puppy. Sire is an AKC Champion. He will probably be around 12 lbs when grown.

Ready for his new home after Dec 9 when he’s 8 weeks old.

He’s still with his Momma.

Health guarantee. He is NOT to be a Christmas present or a surprise for someone. He is looking for a forever home where he will get the love, training and attention he deserves. $600 Limited Registration 828.713.1509 or email davarner@bellsouth.net.

DIAMOND RING White gold.

Round brilliant cut, .330 carat.

Appraisal papers available.

Approximate ring size 6-7. • $500 firm. Local inquires only: magicottage@yahoo.com

Tools &

THE ASHEVILLE PEACE WREATH • $55 ($5 of each sale will be donated to Helpmate). Charm’s Floral of Asheville! 828-424-1463. charmsfloral.com flowershopasheville.com

Wanted

Machinery

CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car.com

Pet Services

CELTIC HARPIST, VOCALIST, PIANIST Available for private functions, fine dining, and concert programs. Book now for Christmas events!

(828) 817-5877, www.deborahwilkie.com.

ONE WORLD MEDIA STUDIO • Music and Video Production • In Studio • Live Venue • HD Video • HQ Audio.

Call (828) 335-9316.

On the web: 1worldmediastudio.com VOICE, CELTIC HARP, PIANO LESSONS Affordable private instruction for all ages, tailored to individual interests and learning styles. Deborah Wilkie, professional performer/instructor.

(828) 817-5877, www.deborahwilkie.com.

Pet Xchange

Lost Pets LOST BLACK/WHITE CAT Jean is a domestic long hair, black/white, neutered male cat. Has a tear on his right ear.

Very friendly. No collar, but, is microchipped. Missing from Poplar Ridge neigborhood in South AVL. 828-654-0302 stquaranta@hotmail.com LOST LONG HAIRED CHIHUAHUA MIX Hali went missing on Thanksgiving Day around 3:30pm from the South AVL neighborhood, Poplar Ridge. She is 16 y/o, brown and black, 12-15 lb, has very limited vision and hearing, but, when went missing was wearing a silver chain collar with tags. 828-654-0302 REWARD FOR MISSING PET! 45lb lab mix, child’s pet, lost 12/3/11 in Leicester.

Call 828-400-1818

ASHEVILLE PET SITTERS Dependable, loving care while you’re away. Reasonable rates.

Call Sandy Ochsenreiter, (828) 215-7232.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FOR PETS • Free or low cost spay/neuter information and vouchers. 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month 123PM at Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville (at the Kmart entrance). • 4th Saturday of each month 10AM - 2PM at Tractor Supply, Four Seasons Blvd., Hendersonville.

828-693-5172.

Adult BobCAT 2002 Only 1507 hours. 773-G Series, Skid Steer tracks over tires, wood splitter 48’, Brush Bandit bush

DREAMSEEKERS Your destination for relaxation.

Call for your appointment: (828) 275-4443.

hog. $15,000. This a great deal! Please call 828-551-4156.

A PERSONAL TOUCH • Call now to book your appointment. 713-9901.

Stacie’s Personal Care Services Home Care Is What We Do

Vehicles For Sale

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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

Openings for CNA’s and RN’s for Nuring Pool in in Buncombe, Madison, Haywood, Yancey, Henderson, Transylvania, Jackson, Mitchell & Swain Counties.

• Weekend and weekday schedules available • Come join our team Stacie’s Personal Care is a drug free workplace

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homeimprovement

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Evening/Weekend Appointments Available Locally Owned & Operated

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KABEL HOMES INC. Four Generations of High Quality Custom Built Homes Serving WNC for 25 Years • Fully Licensed & Insured

w w w. k ab e l h o m e s. c o m • 8 2 8 - 5 8 2 - 0 0 0 0 Finest quality of craftsmanship, combining your creativity with our uncompromising attention to detail We found the Kabels to be pleasant to work with, honest, dependable and just plain all around good people. We have no reservations in recommending them to anyone looking for quality workmanship.”

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Sabastian, 828-505-7670 www.appliancezen.com

RENNOVATIONS • ADDITIONS • KITCHENS • BATHS

828-254-0734 505 Haywood Rd. • Asheville, NC 28806

Licensed. Insured. Bonded.

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The New York Times Crossword Edited by Will Shortz No.1109 57 Jaded ale drinker’s question?

32 Himalayas, e.g.: 61 Pied-à-___ Abbr.

63 Like many a 34 “___ me my whisper Highland lassie, 64 Rugged rocks O”: Burns 65 Pro’s foe 35 Pulitzer nominee 66 Some readouts, for the novels briefly “Black Water” 67 Not realized and “Blonde” 36 Accommodating 68 For fear that person? … or a 69 They may be announced en hint to 20-, 28-, route: Abbr.

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22 Late-night beverages 23 1960s teach-in grp.

24 Bit of crying 27 Same: Prefix

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41 Slangy reversal

42 Chemical agent for climate change 45 “You’re on!”

46 Title woman in a Harry Belafonte song 47 Duplicity 49 Many a rosary carrier 50 Good-humored

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------------------WHEN YOU LOOK

BACK ON 2011,

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Reserve 40 41 Your 42Space Today!

CALL RICK AT

13

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• Reach 70,000 Loyal Readers Every 22 Week • Nearly Issues 32 • Covering 33 730 Locations Throughout 36 37 Western NC

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17 18 IMPROVEMENT 20

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WHAT’S ON YOUR

51 Prod 56 Like an acrobat 58 Prod 59 Non-P.C. suffix 60 They’re taken in high sch.

61 Home of the Horned Frogs: Abbr.

62 Directional suffix

For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.49 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554.

Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information.

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OUT? ------------------Go to

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F[ji e\ j^[ M[[a Adopt a Friend • Save a Life SISTER ID #14442566 Female/Spayed Shih Tzu/Terrier 4 Years ALICE ID #14588722 Female/Spayed Domestic Shorthair/Mix 3 Months RUFUS ID #14180620 Male/Neutered Retriever/Hound 2 Months

7i^[l_bb[ >kcWd[ IeY_[jo 14 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville, NC 828-761-2001 • AshevilleHumane.org Buncombe County Friends For Animals, Inc.

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• DECEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 20, 2011

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