Mountain Xpress, July 29 2009

OUR 16TH YEAR OF WEEKLY INDEPENDENT NEWS, ARTS, & EVENTS FOR WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA VOL. 16 NO. 1 JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

Woodfin annexation war heats up

Grupo Fantasma’s Latin funk

p. 14

p. 42

A junker’s parable p. 46

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

Pottery by: Daniel Johnston

thisweek on the cover

p. 10 Debating the chains When national clothing chain Urban Outfitters recently announced plans to open a store in downtown Asheville, local reactions ran from “That’s great!” to “That’s terrible!” this week. Xpress delves into the pros and cons of corporate chains.

Open 7 Days 64 Biltmore Avenue • Downtown Asheville 828.281.2134 www.amerifolk.com

Cover design by Andrew Findley

news 14 Anti-annexationists Crowd rallies against Woodfin plan 16 deputy investigation Buncombe sheriff’s deputy under scrutiny in road-rage case

34 Green scene Rooting out invasive plants

arts&entertainment 42 spanglish for beginners Latin-funk act Grupo Fantasma returns to Asheville

43 brave new world music Armenian vocalist Mariam Matossian performs with Free Planet Radio

46 junker’s blues The parable of the box and the plumber, or what would you do in Rabuck’s place?

48 spork A shopping cart, a banjo and a dream: Local playwright gets into New York International Fringe Festival

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Letters Cartoon: Molton Commentary The Buzz WNC news briefs Outdoors Out and about in WNC The Dirt Farming and gardening Community Calendar FreeWill Astrology News of the Weird edgy mama Parenting from the edge Conscious party Benefits GREEN SCENE WNC eco-news Asheville Disclaimer Food The straight dish on local eats Small Bites Local food news bar beat Local watering holes Artillery Visual art around town junker’s blues spork A&E news smart bets What to do, who to see soundtrack Local music news ClubLand cranky hanke Movie reviews Classifieds Cartoon: brent brown NY Times crossword

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letters Unwise cut at UNCA The Environmental Quality Institute at UNCA is being eliminated because it is “not related directly to the University’s core mission.” [according to UNCA chancellor Anne Ponder, quoted in a news release.]

UNCA’s core mission is to “Serve as the Standard of Excellence in Public Liberal Arts Undergraduate Education.” Does eliminating an on-campus undergraduate research facility that provides valuable faculty-mentored training improve the Standard of Excellence?

It does not. Perhaps the $600,000 approved for the off-campus chancellor residency and nonacademic Pisgah House could have been spent more wisely.

— Jason Nolan, UNCA class of 2005

Keep veg-diet stats in context Stewart David’s commentary [“Greenwashed,” July 1 Xpress] may have been factually correct, but the conclusions of the study he cited, “Food-Miles and the Relative Climate Impacts of Food Choices in the United States,” were much more nuanced and balanced than Mr. David’s out-of-context quotes implied. Here is an example: David: “… eating a vegetarian diet one day per week is equivalent to driving 1,160 few miles per year.”

Study: “… shifting just one day per week’s calories from red meat and dairy to chicken/ fish/eggs or a vegetable-based diet reduces

GHG emissions equivalent to 760 miles/yr (1230 km/yr) or 1160 miles/yr (1860 km/yr), respectively.”

Notice the 1,160 miles/year fact is accurate, but Mr. David conveniently left out the reference to chicken/fish/eggs as an alternative, as this must not have fit his vegetarian agenda. The authors further pointed out that climate impacts are only one aspect related to food choice: Other factors include taste, safety, health/nutrition concerns, affordability, availability and environmental concerns.

Compared to some of his past missives, David’s commentary this time was relatively less beady-eyed and strident. I think his intentions are good, and he presents some valid points. However, the single-minded focus of his sermons seems more directed at the members of the choir than to those of us interested in an honest, balanced debate.

He should heed the study authors’ advice: “Any attempt to change consumer behavior based on only one dimension of food choice is unlikely to be effective.”

— Cecil J. Clark Asheville

Why you should vote for Shad Marsh Back when I was poor and lived in Asheville, I’d go to Shad Marsh’s house for a few beers now and then. You know what would end up happening half the time? Hell,

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

(Include name, address and phone number.)

xpress staff publisher & Editor: Jeff Fobes senior editor: Peter Gregutt MANAGING editor: Jon Elliston A&E editor: Rebecca Sulock ASSOCIATE editor: Nelda Holder MULTimEDIA EDITOR: Jason Sandford Staff writers: David Forbes, Brian Postelle A&E REPORTER & Fashion editor: Alli Marshall outdoors/gardening editor: Margaret Williams editorial assistants: Hanna Rachel Raskin, Tracy Rose Staff photographer: Jonathan Welch Clubland editor & Writer: Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt contributing writers: Jonathan Barnard, Melanie McGee Bianchi, Ursula Gullow, Anne Fitten Glenn, Whitney Shroyer Production & Design ManaGeR: Andrew Findley Advertising Production manager: Kathy Wadham Production & Design: Carrie Lare, Nathanael Roney calendar editor & supplements coordinator: Mannie Dalton Movie reviewer & Coordinator: Ken Hanke

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A story in the July 22 Xpress incorrectly stated that money for a new media artists directory came from a private donor. In fact, the $30,000 came from Buncombe County, through a grant from the Asheville HUB. That site can be reached at http://themap.org.

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if he wouldn’t end up making dinner for me and his lovely wife, Kristen, he’d let me stay over so as not to endanger Ashevilleans, and then he’d let me borrow a book or two, a movie and a computer game like Sid Meier’s Pirates, which I only gave back to him the day before I left Asheville and poverty for good.

You know what? Speaking of computers, Shad even made a computer for me once.

And a fine computer it was, too. Sometimes he’d let me hold his baby, Charles Thelonius.

And listen: You never held a nicer baby.

We would occasionally sit out on his porch and discuss politics, poetry, beer, goings-on at UNCA, the different places we’d come from, things we were reading and writing, people we didn’t like, people we did like, people we liked not liking, people we didn’t like not liking, and cats.

Now, if that’s not a person you want for mayor of Asheville, what the hell’s wrong with you? I know what you’re thinking. But just because Terry Bellamy is mayor now doesn’t mean she’s the right woman for the job. I think Shad Marsh is the right woman for the job! He makes computers, poems, beer, dinner and babies.

What does Terry Bellamy make but trouble? Does anybody know? And that’s why I think you should vote for Shad Marsh for mayor.

— Devin Walsh Mineola, N.Y.

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For other Molton cartoons, check out our Web page at www.mountainx.com/cartoons

NC clothesline bill protects environment and private property I strongly support NC HB1353, the clothesline-defense bill, as absolutely essential for both property rights and the environment — in the defense against authoritarian, elitist and polluting local governments. This bill is hung up in the N.C. Senate Commerce Committee. If passed, it will prevent city, town or county governments from banning clotheslines (and infringing on private-property rights). Clotheslines save energy and prevent smog and global warming, in addition to protecting the working-class character of neighborhoods.

— Alan Ditmore Leicester

The gift of Xpress I enjoy your paper each week, and when I am out of this area, I find I miss it.

For some background on me, well, I am almost 50, an ex-military officer, fairly conservative, and have lived here on and off since I was a kid in 1973. I love it here in

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Candler — it is home.

I like how you guys try to be inclusive of everyone in this area. It would be pretty damn boring, were we all the same, ya know. I particularly like the food/restaurant reviews and Ken Hanke’s movie reviews.

Plus various articles and specials you print.

Some of the political cartoonists you all feature, not so much. But that is OK, also. (I even like Asheville Disclaimer, but don’t tell anyone. ;)) I also like the “Letters” section (though they raise my blood pressure and piss me off frequently), for that is what this country is all about.

Please keep up the great paper. I like nothing better than sitting down late each Wednesday evening and never knowing what will be in there. Kind of like unwrapping a new gift each week. Thanks for your hard work. God bless (I meant my God, but take that any way you want, OK? None at all, if that is your thing.)

— Tom Robinson Candler

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commentary

The Gospel According to Jerry Welcome to the next Great Depression

by Jerry Sternberg By 1936, the Great Depression had savaged the nation and the world, and Asheville and Buncombe County were left in dire financial circumstances.

Schoolteachers were being paid in scrip (IOUs from the county that some local merchants reluctantly accepted, at deep discounts, so that teachers could buy the bare necessities of life).

Land was still being “sold to music,” as my grandfather used to say. (Public foreclosure auctions literally “drummed up” a crowd for the sale.) Unemployment was in the high double digits, and soup kitchens were still common.

Of course, as a 5-year-old boy trudging off to my first day of class at Claxton School, I was completely oblivious to all of these circumstances.

Still, the Depression did dictate a way of life, and we children received constant reminders of “waste not, want not” — and how much worse off others were.

About every six months, we got a new pair of

string, pins, rubber bands — and almost any house you visited had balls of “tinfoil” sitting around. It was as if some huge silver duck had laid silver eggs and was expected to come back and hatch them.

Actually, this foil (which was a common food wrap) contained lead, but then this was pre-Environmental Protection Agency. It also had scrap value, and we bought tons of it at the scrap yard.

I was probably more aware than most youngsters of how desperate people were during those times, because I hung around my daddy’s scrapmetal business at the depot.

I remember seeing children, some no older than I was, walking the railroad tracks with a burlap bag and picking up chunks of coal that had fallen off one of the endless stream of coal trains that came through Asheville.

Many young people dropped out of high school, not by choice but because they had to work to help feed their family. This was especially true in the rural community, where farmers depended on the vagaries of produce,

There were always children waiting around in case you didn’t want some part of your lunch. They seemed as though they never got enough to eat. shoes at the Thom McCan store on Pack Square.

Children’s shoes were about $3 and adult shoes about $6, and the price didn’t change for years.

The new shoes were, of course, saved for special occasions, and heaven forbid you scuffed them before you outgrew or wore out your “regular shoes.”

The worn and outgrown shoes were sent with you to school for the many children who had no shoes at all. It wasn’t uncommon to put cardboard in worn shoes till a determination could be made as to whether it was worth having them half-soled. A darning egg was standard equipment in most homes to prolong the life of worn socks.

It was always a treat when my parents let me eat in the school lunchroom, where lunches cost about 25 cents, but I usually carried my lunch from home.

I don’t know if there was a free school-lunch program, but there were always children waiting around in case you didn’t want some part of your lunch. They seemed as if they never got enough to eat, and I understand that to this day, the best and sometimes only meal many children get is the one they eat at school.

I, meanwhile, was constantly admonished to bring home my stained paper bag, neatly folded, so it could be reused.

In those days, people saved everything —

tobacco prices and fickle weather, which together dictated crop production aimed at saving their land and homes from foreclosure.

Many farms failed anyway. The Grapes of Wrath was not a fairy tale.

I may have mentioned in an earlier column a vision that still resonates with me — of a constant stream of men coming to my daddy’s office looking for work. Many were dressed in coats and ties, and my daddy told me that some had been bankers, clerks, bookkeepers and government workers, but they were now willing to take any job to feed their family.

My dad would explain that the only work he could offer included loading heavy barrels and working in the nasty hide basement and that they wouldn’t last two days. Others came seeking financial help, and I know my dad, a kind and generous man, made many loans that he knew would never be repaid.

I guess the whole point of this column and my last one (“Depression-era Memories,” May 20 Xpress) is to give the young people of this community some perspective on what it was like during the last big Depression and what might be coming amid the rapidly deteriorating economic conditions we now face.

I know that the last thing this better-educated, high-tech, up-and-coming generation wants to hear is free advice from an old curmudgeon, and

of course it’s worth exactly what they’re paying for it.

Well, I have 50 words left, so I am going to give it anyway.

You’ve been told all your life that someone will take care of you. Don’t believe it: Many of those people who told you that are now in financial trouble themselves.

Prepare for the worst scenario you can imagine. If you have a job, even if you don’t like it, respect it for now, and do your best to keep it.

Save every dollar you can.

If you don’t have to have something, don’t buy it. Forget about new; try to extend the life of what you have.

You are in a real-life reality show, and it ain’t going to be fun.

Finally, I want to quote my daddy one more time: “It is a lot easier to live up than it is to live down.” X Jerry Sternberg has been active on the local scene for many years. He can be reached at gospeljerry@ aol.com.

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news Here comes the chain again

Urban Outfitters’ arrival restarts downtown Asheville chain-store debate

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There’s something afoot at the corner of Haywood and College streets, and it’s not just the massive renovation under way at the former CVS pharmacy site. After all, there are similar projects scattered around downtown Asheville.

Still, this particular project stands out enough to have touched off community discussion of a topic this city seems to revisit every few years: Is Asheville’s downtown really an appropriate place for chain stores? And if not, what can be done about them?

Asheville’s downtown is widely heralded for the independent shops and restaurants that give the city its unique ambiance, say visitors and residents alike. “Funky” is the adjective that’s repeatedly invoked, and the city’s distinctive character is even cited as a draw for new industry in search of the still emerging “creative class.”

So when clothing and home furnishings retailer Urban Outfitters announced in early July that it would open a downtown Asheville store by this fall, the news was sure to generate some reaction. Xpress wrote about the issue of chain stores in 2003, when several franchises set up shop downtown, and again in 2007, when City Council candidate Elaine Lite proposed banning chains in the city center. And in 2005, when Starbucks Coffee Co. opened a store on Charlotte Street (not exactly the heart of the central business district), the brand-new building was vandalized.

Urban Outfitters, however, had huddled

Mixed emotions: Asia Mahon, owner of Lexington Avenue dress shop Virtue and president of the eclectic street’s merchants association, says independent shop owners are worried about increasing rental prices. photo by jonathan welch

Associates, an Asheville-based real-estate and development company, she’s been working with Urban Outfitters officials and the local landlord.

Urban Outfitters, says Quinn, will give other downtown retailers a boost, because the company is a strong draw with a national reputation.

Company representatives, she notes, have said

“Overwhelmingly the board thinks the downtown should be a mix of independent, franchise and chain business.”

— Byron Greiner, Asheville Downtown Association with both the Downtown Commission and the Downtown Association beforehand, and their arrival on the scene was hailed in some quarters.

“Overwhelmingly the board thinks the downtown should be a mix of independent, franchise and chain business,” Downtown Association President Byron Greiner reports. “If you really think about it, downtown can’t survive just on independent businesses.”

Chain stores, he maintains, beef up downtown’s tax base, and their name recognition attracts a new population of shoppers to the area.

Kristie Quinn agrees. A partner in Boone

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

they’ll work with other local retailers to ensure that there’s no duplication in what’s offered.

But some small-business owners aren’t so sure, fearing that big chains’ deeper pockets could drive up downtown rents.

Asia Mahon, who is president of the Lexington Avenue Merchants Association and owns the dress shop Virtue, says she’s spoken with other business owners who fear that Urban Outfitters’ arrival will trigger rent increases that could force independent stores out. “I think that’s the main fear of these little businesses.

We’re not as much afraid of the competition as we are of our rents going up and driving us out of business.”

No protection Mahon, who’s had various businesses on Lexington since 1992, says low rents have been key to her ability to open shops and keep them going. That, in turn, has spurred other entrepreneurs to launch quirky boutiques that have helped Asheville build its reputation as a oneof-a-kind shopping destination.

Pat Whalen, president of Public Interest Projects, a business and real-estate develoment firm that’s helped a number of downtown businesses get started, says downtown property owners are well aware that chains can pay double or more what local businesses can.

Nonetheless, some landlords simply refuse to rent to national and multinational companies.

“Oh yeah, we’ve done that,” says Whalen. “A lot of people who did development in the ’90s were very cognizant that it was the local businesses that were the backbone of what downtown was all about.”

But in tough economic times with more downtown storefronts coming open, he notes, property owners’ commitment to keeping things local may be sorely tested.

“Everybody’s under financial pressure: landlords, business owners, everybody. When people get desperate, different things may happen,” he observes.

Until recently, Whalen also chaired the Downtown Commission and served on the Downtown Master Plan Advisory Committee, a

New look: The former CVS location at the corner of Haywood and College streets (left) will get an upgrade with the arrival of an Urban Outfitters store (right). photo on left by Jonathan Welch

group of stakeholders who helped keep a local eye on the draft plan produced by consultants Goody Clancy and passed on to City Council in June. He says the topic of chain stores did come up, but it never really jelled into a firm recommendation.

“There’s not a lot of real new protections in the Downtown Master Plan,” says Whalen.

“That was kind of left for the future if we want to do it.”

There was also talk of finding ways to direct chains to other local specialty shopping areas such as Biltmore Village, notes architect Tom Gallaher, who was hired by Goody Clancy to participate in the master-plan meetings. But again, no firm language was formulated, and the document now before Council contains only a general statement acknowledging independent businesses’ importance to downtown and urging support for them.

Discussion with the Downtown Commission produced the same result, says Gallaher. “There was no mechanism to sort of say, ‘You’re OK, you’re not.’ It certainly was a tempting topic, but it was never a serious pursuit.”

Legal obstacles

But even if the will is there, crafting ordinances designed to screen out chain stores is something of a sticky wicket, says Jeff Milchen of the Bozeman, Mont.-based American Independent Business Alliance. Milchen, who gave talks on this very topic to several Asheville groups a few years ago, says legal precedent, including Supreme Court rulings, prohibits discriminating against a business based on its ownership.

What is allowed, he says, is creating general rules based on the desired character of stores.

Architecture and design are the most obvious elements of character, he explains, but it can also include things like standardized merchandise and employee uniforms. Thus, many have eschewed the term “chain store” in favor of the more legally acceptable “formula store.”

Another obstacle Asheville might face in attempting to restrict chains is the fact that in

many cases, North Carolina municipalities must get permission from the General Assembly to pass certain types of laws. And since many Tar Heel cities are struggling financially and would probably welcome chain stores, “I’m not even sure what we’d be allowed to do,” says Whalen.

Nonetheless, there have been some local efforts to investigate the options for controlling the impact of chains downtown. In 2005, Council member Brownie Newman introduced a plan to restructure the city’s tax code to ensure that chain businesses pay their fair share of taxes. And requests from the community have led the city attorney to research the issue, urban planner Stephanie Monson of the city’s Office of Economic Development reports, though so far, no proposals have come before City Council.

Meanwhile, apart from some industrial uses and adult establishments, there are very few restrictions on businesses downtown, according to assistant planning director Shannon Tuch.

“I’ve heard murmurs of people wanting to do something about it, but it’s always been ... put on the back burner to deal with later on,” says Whalen. “And I’m not sure Urban Outfitters’ coming to town and replacing another chain is going to be the straw that broke the camel’s back to get people excited about doing something permanent downtown.”

A rapid retail shift

But that hasn’t prevented people in other cities from tackling the issue. The New Rules Project, a program of the Washington, D.C.based Institute for Local Self-Reliance, lists on its Web site a menu of news stories, studies and oped pieces concerning the need to support locally owned businesses and keep chains out, and highlighting potential threats to those goals.

Even when only a few chain stores start moving in, communities should be on guard, maintains Stacy Mitchell, senior researcher for the project. “The real reason people become concerned about this is that many of these retailers are looking at the same marketing info. And

many are watching one another,” she explains, adding, “You can undergo a fairly rapid retail shift.”

That financial impact, notes Mitchell (who also chairs the American Independent Business Alliance’s board) isn’t limited to rent increases.

Study after study bears out the fact that national chains put less money back into the community.

In Chicago, she says, one study found that for every $100 spent, locally owned businesses reinvested $68 in the community; for chains, the figure was $43.

Steve Rasmussen, co-founder of Buy Local WNC, agrees. “They suck all the money away; they don’t recirculate it,” he says. “They don’t hire local Web designers; they don’t hire local architects; they don’t hire local designers. That clothing is made in China, not here.”

Some of the clothing Urban Outfitters sells is made overseas, and in 2008, a group of shareholders asked the company to adopt an international human rights policy.

Another strength of independently owned shops, says Mahon, has been their ability to work together. The clothing boutiques on Lexington, she notes, share buying lists to make sure each one carries different product lines. The practice, says Mahon, “is unheard of” — but the result is positive.

“It benefits everybody, because we’re all unique, and it makes the shopping experience for the people coming down the street enjoyable. They see something new in every store.”

And though Urban Outfitters’ arrival is a mark of downtown’s success, says Mahon, “We’re not excited about Asheville becoming gentrified to where it’s going to look like anywhere else you’re going to go.” Small-business owners, she believes, will simply be forced to work smarter in order to say alive.

“I just think small businesses need to prepare themselves and just stay focused on filling a niche that Urban Outfitters is not filling,” Mahon says. “And we’re going to have to make our business the most welcoming, positive expe-

rience for the customer.”

A question of semantics?

As with just about everything in Asheville, however, there’s no standard reaction to the question of chain stores.

Marc McCloud, who owns Orbit DVD, an independent movie-rental business in West Asheville, says he’s a fierce defender of momand-pop operations — but he also sees the benefits of bigger stores.

“I want everyone to succeed, but personally, I don’t have a problem with Urban Outfitters coming in,” says McCloud. “I think there might be an opportunity for a whole new clientele of people coming to downtown Asheville.”

Small businesses, he maintains, just have to be ready to deal with increased competition and higher rents, noting, “Those are factors you kind of have to be prepared for anyway.”

McCloud also sees some hypocrisy in what businesses people say they do and don’t like.

“They hate Starbucks, but they love Dunkin’ Donuts. They hate Wal-Mart, but they love Target. Some people say they would love it if an Apple Store came into downtown. Well, they’re a chain.”

And therein lies another piece of Asheville’s chain dilemma: A number of established downtown businesses, including the Marble Slab Creamery, Kilwin’s Chocolates and Ice Cream, Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers and Mast General Store, are either chain stores or franchises. And the departure of the CVS that’s being replaced by Urban Outfitters sparked much lamentation on the part of downtown residents who shopped there for household necessities.

“The thing is, we have chain stores [now],” says Gallaher. “But they happen to be the chain stores we like.”

Invisible hand or hands-on?

Even Starbucks made it past the spray-paintand-broken-window phase and has no problem filling its seats. But that hasn’t seemed to

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

In the mix: Downtown Association President Byron Greiner says downtown needs a blend of independent and chain stores to stay healthy. photo by jonathan welch

affect the survival of local indie coffee shops, says Greiner, who warns against stigmatizing a business just because another one like it exists someplace else. Greiner was featured in a 2003 Xpress story about chain stores, having opened Anntony’s Caribbean Cafe, which had a twin in Charlotte.

“People identified us as a chain,” he recalls.

“But we were locally owned, hired local employees and paid local taxes.” (The local Anntony’s closed several years ago, and Greiner now sells real estate with Keller Williams.)

Greiner also rejects the idea that Urban Outfitters won’t actively participate in the community. “They are a perfect example of what we want,” he asserts, adding that company representatives told the Downtown Association they plan to be involved financially with local charities and nonprofits. Quinn, meanwhile, says the company may offer local artworks for sale on store walls and host local musicians in the store.

It seems worth noting that Asheville hasn’t always been off-limits to chains: The evidence is literally written on the walls of its historic structures. Woolworth’s and Kress were both national chains whose buildings now house stalls for local artists. It was the Great Depression’s economic devastation that emptied downtown of chains, and it was the revitalization drive of the 1980s and ’90s that spawned today’s predominance of local businesses.

Bob and Ellen Carr own Tops for Shoes, a downtown institution that attracts many out-oftown shoppers. Bob Carr served on a downtown revitalization committee back in the 1980s, when the area was marked by deserted streets and boarded-up storefronts. At that time, a chain like Urban Outfitters would have been ushered in with no questions asked, he maintains.

“Back in the ’80s, we would have loved to have them come in. Now that we have all these established businesses, I’m not sure we need them,” says Carr. “But they’re going to be a draw, and hopefully everybody can share in the

retail growth.”

And in any case, he thinks it’s “inevitable that national chains are going to start looking at Asheville. All you have to do is walk around the streets and see all the people that are out there to know there’s a market.” But Carr goes on to say that he hopes downtown retains its status as a novel shopping destination. How to make this happen? “I think the marketplace needs to take care of that,” he observes.

Not everyone shares Carr’s faith, however.

Sara Legatski, who owns downtown clothing stores Honeypot and HUNK, worries that Urban Outfitters’ arrival heralds the “mall-ification” of downtown.

“We should be discouraging national chains from moving here. They are not compatible with our working infrastructure,” she believes. “An 8,000-square-foot store that sells over 30,000 products a year is offering nothing special or niche — [it belongs] in the mall or on Tunnel Road.”

Meanwhile, she says, local stores are already suffering enough in the current economic climate.

“There are not enough resources to go around right now, and most independent businesses are running on 60 to 70 percent of their normal income. People are being driven to take out loans to stay afloat, and any competition — especially a multibillion-dollar conglomerate — is certainly threatening,” she asserts.

Milchen of the American Independent Business Alliance also thinks there needs to be a more proactive approach to protecting downtown’s “funky” character.

“Asheville,” he says, “is striking in its core downtown by being dominated by local businesses. That is an asset that should be guarded.” X Brian Postelle can be reached at 251-1333, ext.

153, or at bpostelle@mountainx.com. Jason Sandford can be reached at 251-1333, ext. 115, or at jsandford@mountainx.com.

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Declaring that they’re ready for a fight, about 400 opponents of a massive annexation proposed by the town of Woodfin packed the Woodfin Elementary gym for a July 21 public hearing. The residents of the 3.5-square-mile slice of Erwin Hills and Leicester say they’ll see higher taxes but few or no benefits if forced to join the town.

Except for a few brief statements, the town’s Board of Aldermen, mayor and town administrator remained silent throughout the hearing. Speaker after speaker — many sporting red shirts — denounced the annexation to raucous applause.

“We will not have this off our chests until you stop trying to forcibly annex us,” Betty Jackson declared. “I ask you, I beg you, I implore you: Just walk away from this. Otherwise, if you give us no choice, we’ve hired the law firm of Adams, Hendon, Carson, Crow & Saenger to fight you — and we’re in this to win.” Jackson is co-founder of StopWoodfin.org.

The annexation would increase Woodfin’s population by 3,360 people (about 50 percent) and its geographic area by 38 percent. The town has promised to add eight police officers, a new police substation and an additional town staffer.

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EBT

“We’re in this to win”: Anti-Woodfin annexation leader Betty Jackson gets a standing ovation as she declares Erwin Hills and Leicester residents’ determination to fight the town’s attempts to take them in. photo by Jonathan Welch

by 26.5 cents per $100 of assessed property value.

Town officials have said that the step is necessary to keep Asheville from annexing the area.

However, Asheville city staff have said no such move is planned.

Before the meeting, Woodfin Mayor Jerry VeHaun announced that while the aldermen would be listening and not answering questions, he had a problem with some statements that “were in some editorials and [what was] said at [a July 7 question-and-answer session]. First, Woodfin is not broke. We won’t be taking in millions and only expending $100,000 on the annexation. And one thing that’s stuck in my craw: Woodfin does not have a corrupt police department and, quite frankly, I resent that.”

The audience laughed, and VeHaun continued.

“Some of you made reference to things that happened in the past before I was even associated with the town of Woodfin. If you’re going to use that kind of rationale, I guess you don’t want anyone from the sheriff’s department coming either.”

The hearing grew tense at some points. Woodfin police ejected two annexation opponents from the gym for shouting. Just before the second ejection, VeHaun banged his gavel, rose up and declared: “We went through this the last time we had a meeting. Maintain order in here, or you people that are continuing to interrupt this meeting will be put out: That’s the bottom line.”

Some speakers harshly criticized the town’s promised services, expressing doubt that Woodfin would serve them adequately. Area residents already receive law enforcement, fire protection and trash pickup, as well as water and sewer provided by Asheville.

“This is not the time to raise taxes — especially

when I won’t be receiving a fair return,” asserted Eli Helbert. “Annexation is supposed to provide the same level of services to everyone. As I drive around this charming town, it is obvious that is not the case. When I drive along Woodfin Avenue, I’m struck by the loose gravel on the turns.

“Based on the documented corrupt history in the past 15 years I’ve lived here, by Woodfin police chiefs E.F. Rice, Darrell Rathburn and Pete Bradley, I know this is not a service I want to pay for.”

Brandishing his hat, which featured an American flag, Ray Bailey told the asssembled aldermen and mayor that forced annexation should be unconstitutional. “Folks, I’m sure you’re fine people and do a great job at what you do, but we don’t need you to do it for us,” he proclaimed.

Resident Megan Richardson, who also helped organize the anti-annexation movement, said the move amounts to a hostile takeover.

“You are attempting to force your ordinances, your police force, your government and your taxes on a community which did not elect you,” she intoned. “I am shocked you would increase our property taxes by hundreds and even thousands of dollars. In my home, we’re working very hard to make ends meet.”

The Board of Aldermen could vote on the annexation at its Aug. 18 meeting. If approved, the annexation would take effect a year later unless it were successfully contested in court.

Proposed legislation in the North Carolina House would allow residents of annexed areas a vote if they could gather signatures of 15 percent of registered voters in the affected area.

— David Forbes

Council committee to URTV: Right your own ship moved In a July 20 letter to URTV Director Pat Garlinghouse and Board Chair Jerry Young, Asheville City Council’s Boards and Commissions Committee spelled out a 14-point breakdown of the problems dogging the publicaccess TV station.

The letter cited concerns ranging from transparency issues and “internal turmoil” to the involvement of individuals with criminal backgrounds and arbitrary banning procedures for some producers.

Urging station management to find solutions to the problems by the end of September, the letter, sent by committee members Jan Davis, Robin Cape and Carl Mumpower, came on the heels of a July 14 appearance by URTV producers and board members before City Council.

The letter also notes that although Council has no direct oversight of URTV, it does approve funding for the station’s operations, which could be jeopardized if no improvements are made: “We do have stewardship accountabilities involving funding and an on-going management agreement that we must uphold in good fashion,” the letter states. “To this point we have not had a sense that the level of partnership between URTV leadership and the City has been adequate to our shared accountabilities and interests in insuring the long-term viability

of public access TV.” Both City Council and the Buncombe County commissioners authorize funding derived from a special charge on Charter cable-TV billls to pay for URTV operations. The four-year agreement is up for renewal this November, Davis told Xpress.

“We are less interested in a ‘formal response to charges’ than an internal effort within URTV to right its own ship and press on to good places,” the letter continues.

The committee also concedes in the letter that it may not know the whole story concerning the controversies: “We recognize that our information and perspective will not necessarily be completely accurate and valid. We offer these concerns with that consideration, but a shared belief that what we know, your leadership should, too.”

Noting that this is the first time City Council will revisit the URTV contract since it was approved four years ago, Davis said the organization’s current turmoil is bad timing.

“It’s just ironic that this happens right now,” he told Xpress, adding that it took a lot of effort to establish the station four years ago. “We fought pretty hard to have this thing happen initially.”

— Brian Postelle

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Facing state cuts, WNCW launches fundraising drive Proposed state budget cuts will probably slash about $200,000 from WNCW’s budget for the coming year, leaving the station facing staff cuts. The popular local public-radio station is launching a major fund drive to try to make up some of the loss.

“This is going to be a really painful blow.

The station has never been through anything like this where funding is concerned,” General Manager Dana Whitehair told Xpress. “I don’t begrudge the state: They’ve had to make some really hard decisions. Now we’re in a situation where I have to make some hard choices, and the staff of WNCW has to make some hard choices — and our members and our listeners who have never been members have to make some choices about supporting us.”

WNCW, whose license is held by Isothermal Community College in Spindale, was one of three community-college radio stations still receiving funds from the state. Facing tight times, however, legislators put that money on the chopping block. WNCW’s coverage extends throughout the mountain region.

Most of the money, said Whitehair, pays for full-time staff. “That’s where it’s going to hurt,”

he noted. “I have almost no question we’re going to lose staff temporarily.”

The upcoming fundraiser will have the goal of “replacing as much of that $201,000 as possible, but my larger goal is to try to use this unfortunate situation to retool the station’s development efforts to sustain replacing that $201,000,” said Whitehair. “Being able to replace it for a year will be a challenge; replacing it for years to come will be a greater challenge.”

To that end, he said, WNCW will look at expanding business underwriting.

“We’ve had a very loyal base, but it’s been a very small number,” he said. “It used to be much larger. Over the years it’s dwindled a bit, but we’re trying to build that back up. We’re targeting businesses both large and small to be in this for the long haul.”

What isn’t an option, however, is losing the station’s independence and level of quality, said Whitehair. “Even with that $201,000, it was an extraordinary challenge. This is an extraordinary station. No matter how this falls out, what the funding situation is, I see it my job to keep that gem alive.”

— David Forbes

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mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 15

Bele Chere: A virtual reality

Sheriff’s deputy accused in road-rage incident

Relive the magic: Bele Chere 2009 is already starting to fade in memory, but it lives online at the Mountain Xpress. You’ll find the doggie splashdowns, the hoop dancers, the varied music, the greasy food and the many festival faces. It’s all there in video clips, photo galleries, forums and a Twitter feed. Go to www.mountainx.com/belechere/ to see it all. photo by jonathan welch

A local woman claims an off-duty Buncombe County sheriff’s deputy threatened her during a road-rage incident, sparking an internal-affairs investigation. Clyde resident Julie Brown also sharply criticized the conduct of the Asheville Police Department, which responded to her 911 call.

Brown says she was driving home from work July 9 when a jeep cut her off at the intersection of Patton Avenue and the New Leicester Highway.

While stopped at a light, she honked her horn and says the man then got out of his vehicle and came over to hers, striking the car.

“He tried the door handle; he punched on the windows. I couldn’t look at it. I was afraid the glass would break.”

The man then got back in his vehicle and she continued down the road, calling 911. Brown says the man continued to follow her. Dispatchers told Brown to find a public place, and she turned into a nearby parking lot, where she was met by Asheville police.

Around the same time, an undercover narcotics deputy whose name is being withheld by the Sheriff’s Office also called 911, saying: “I’ve got a vehicle here giving me the road rage, flipping me off. I don’t know what in the world’s her problem.” The man added, “I’m in my personal vehicle. ... She wants to act all stupid, so I want to show her how stupid she is when she finds out who I am.” The deputy also denies cutting her off, saying he got out of his car just to see what was going on.

After the dispatcher said there weren’t any units nearby, the deputy replied: “Well, she’s heading towards home. She lives in Clyde. So you can just cancel that. I’ll just get her tag number down and pay her a visit.”

Sgt. Randy Smart confirmed that his agency’s Office of Professional Standards is looking into the case. Asked if the deputy’s visiting her house would have constituted professional conduct, Smart replied: “No, it’s not. I’m sure he was just rattled and wasn’t thinking clearly.”

The deputy in question has a distinguished record, said Smart, and “has not had any investigations or complaints before.” He added that the deputy has denied touching or striking her vehicle.

Brown denies having made any gestures.

“The first officer on the scene asked if I realized

I had just called in on a cop. I thought he was kidding,” says Brown. “My next thing was: So what?

This person did this — whether he’s a carpenter or a cop, it doesn’t make much of a difference. But apparently it does, because they did not pull him over ... or do anything else.”

Brown says she wanted to press charges and asked them to dust her door for fingerprints, but the officers refused. “How is that protecting the public?” she asks. “They did not do their job. It’s not my job to build a case against someone who attacked me.”

According to APD Chief Bill Hogan, the officers declined to press charges or file an incident report “because they both called on each other, [and] we were not there to witness it. We verified she was safe and advised her to take it up with the deputy’s employer.”

As for the request to collect evidence from her car, Hogan said that’s not normal procedure. “If he touched her car, so what? It doesn’t prove anything. Maybe if the glass were broken that would be a different story. I understand the public wants certain things done, but they don’t always understand the law.”

Brown has been unhappy with the police response, saying that it took her several days just to determine that the matter had been turned over to Lt. Kim Martin at the Sheriff’s Office.

“We can’t just drop what we’re doing; there has to be a reasonable expectation here,” said Hogan.

Law-enforcement agencies are required to provide recordings of 911 calls within 10 days to any citizen who requests them.

Brown says she’s consulted an attorney and also spoken to Lt. Martin, who relayed the deputy’s version of events. But after Brown advised Martin to talk to her attorney, Brown says Martin told her that “civic disturbance” charges could be brought against her.

Martin has denied saying this, and Smart said, “I don’t see [Brown] facing any charges from this.”

“I can tell you this much: I do not trust the police now,” says Brown, adding that she’s considering a possible lawsuit against the APD for what she sees as dereliction of duty. “This has been overwhelming,” she says. “I don’t want money. But some seriously bad, wrong things are happening, and no one seems to want to admit it.”

— David Forbes

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Showing Pritchard Park some birthday love Trina Mullen, an organizer with the volunteer group Friends of Pritchard Park, says the downtown-Asheville park could use a little TLC. “Not a lot of love has come Pritchard’s way from the community in the past few years,” she says. “We’d like to change that.”

The organization, a partnership between the Downtown Asheville Residents Network and Asheville GreenWorks, is ramping up its efforts to make Pritchard clean, green, arty and hospitable. Already, Friends of Pritchard Park has raised roughly $20,000 for improvement projects, including the installation of 21 planters. It’s also sponsored an ever-expanding series of free public events in the park, which was once maligned as a haven for vagrants and illicit activities.

To keep the momentum going, the group will throw Pritchard a 77th birthday party on Saturday, Aug. 1. The free event starts with an 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. celebration, with entertainment, refreshments and kids activities — all capped off with a birthday-hat parade promising “prizes for the best.” In the evening, circa 8 p.m., a Movie Nights in Pritchard Park series kicks off with a screening of the classic film Tarzan the Ape Man. (Organizers urge you to bring a blanket or lawn chair and to return Saturday nights Aug. 8, 15, and 22 for more cinema beneath the stars and streetlights.)

Anyone wishing to pump some more lifeblood into the park is invited to attend the Friends of Pritchard Park fundraiser the night before (Friday, July 31) at S&W Steak and Wine’s Ellington room, across the street from the park. The event, which takes place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., will include beverages and hors d’oeuvres, along with numerous silent-auction items and a live auction at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $75/single, $125/couple.

Several other Friends of Pritchard Parksponsored activities are having a regular run in the park, from now through September: • The Tuesday Hoop Jam — billed as “part performance, part audience participation, 100 percent fun!” — puts hula-hooping front and center every Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m.

• On Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m., local classical musicians play live.

• Thursday evenings, from 5 to 7 p.m., the park hosts musicians and performers from several genres.

• Saturday Arts Markets, which include free performances, take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about upcoming Pritchard Park events, visit www.ashevillegreenworks.org.

— Jon Elliston

Proud of Pritchard: The Friends of Pritchard Park group has spearheaded several new beautification and entertainment programs in the downtown space, including “Hoop Jam” on Tuesday afternoons from 5 to 7 p.m.

Photo by Jonathan Welch

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 17

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outdoors

The Practical Fly Fishing ethics

by Jeff Ashton About five years ago, I was doing a renovation job at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. During the four months I was there, a passionate debate was playing out in the local paper via articles, editorials and letters to the editor.

A group of out-of-town fly-fishing enthusiasts had bought about a half-mile of frontage on the Tuckaseegee River, aiming to create a high-dollar fly-fishing destination featuring guides, a lodge, a private waterfront on a fine river — and big fish. These same folks began a public lobbying campaign to turn the Tuckaseegee into an exclusively catchand-release river, hoping to attract a new conservation-minded fishing public — and guarantee their clients big fish.

There are various examples of places that have, via grass-roots mandate, converted harvestable waters to catch and release. About 25 years ago, the people of Montana voted in a five-year moratorium on harvesting fish, to increase and stabilize wild trout populations while generating larger fish for future

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

generations to harvest in a more responsible manner.

And certain sections of the San Juan River in northern New Mexico boast enormous numbers of big, BIG trout, making these spots popular destinations for catch-andrelease fly-fishing enthusiasts. Under local law, current license holders can take a fish a day on a fly, but once you’ve kept one, you must dismantle your rod or risk a hefty fine.

This ethic has created lots of large (albeit hard-to-catch) trout.

So there are good reasons for turning harvestable waters into catch-and-release waters, and there are many places where such mandates by the people have been successful.

But because of its high water volume, the Tuckaseegee has been heavily stocked by the state for decades, for the express purpose of allowing people to catch those fish. And for generations, folks out that way have been taking their full limit of trout from the Tuck to the frying pan or freezer. At the grassroots level, these locals said, “We like our fishing just the way it is, and we don’t want to stop catching the trout the state stocks for our enjoyment.”

Both sides produced articulate arguments in the local paper. The locals maintained that being able to catch fish whatever way they wanted was their birthright, and a bunch of rich out-of-towners had no right to tell them they needed to change. Meanwhile, the “fishing lodge” crowd struck an evangelical note, admonishing the locals to embrace a fishing ethic more in keeping with their own, for everyone’s benefit. But the locals would have

Let it go: On a guided tour with Altamont Anglers, Tom Baynes caught this beauty on the Tuckaseegee River ... then he let it swim. photo courtesy Altamont Anglers

ethic because it’s the law on wild trout waters in North Carolina and because, once a heartfelt ethic is embraced, it’s difficult to turn it off.

It’s sort of like committing to organic gardening: That means you garden organically, period. For me, it’s the same thing with catch and release. Besides, in my world, fly-fishing isn’t necessarily about catching fish, though that is the goal, and it definitely isn’t about

Fly-fishing isn’t necessarily about catching fish, though that is the goal, and it definitely isn’t about the size of the fish, although big ones are more fun to catch. none of it, and the last I heard, the battle was still raging.

I bring this up because a couple of readers of this column have questioned the reasoning behind the catch-and-release ethic, which I’ve mentioned in other articles. Lee Wulff, the warrior god of modern fly-fishing, singlehandedly introduced the concept when he went on record declaring, “A game fish is too valuable and too precious to be caught only once” — and proceeded to release every fish he caught, regardless of size, for the rest of his life.

Far be it from me to take issue with folks who want to keep their legal catch. But I choose to subscribe to the catch-and-release

the size of the fish, although big ones are more fun to catch.

The way I see it, a clean release means I don’t need to hold the fish to consider it “caught.” If I can bring a fish in to the point where I have the tippet in my hand, then in my view, I’ve caught it.

And once I’ve reached that stage, I find that barbless hooks will often come out on their own if the line pressure is released. This makes a release that is safe for the fish and quick for me, enabling me to get back to what I’m there for: trying to catch fish. X Jeff Ashton lives in Weaverville.

outdoorscalendar Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009 Blue Ridge Bicycle Club Encourages safe and responsible recreational bicycling in the WNC area. To find out more about the club and its ongoing advocacy efforts, or to see a complete club calendar, visit www.blueridgebicycleclub.org. • THURSDAYS - Fletcher Blue Sky Road Ride. Departs promptly at 9:15am. Route and meeting place vary. No one will be left behind. Call or e-mail for details or if weather is questionable: 696-0877 or JohnL9@mchsi.com. • SATURDAYS - Gary Arthur Ledges Park Road Ride.

Departs in the a.m. from Ledges Park, located 6.5 miles off UNCA exit on I-26. Ride north along the French Broad River to Marshall for coffee, then return via Ivy Hill. Email for departure time: jbyrdlaw@charter.net. • SUNDAYS - Folk Art Center Road Ride. Departs in the p.m. from the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is a show-n-go ride, meaning there may not be a ride leader.

Call or email for departure time: 713-8504 or billcrownover@ bellsouth.net.

Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes Led by Blue Ridge Parkway rangers. • FR (7/31), 10am - An easy-to-moderate 3-mile RT hike on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail to the remains of Rattlesnake Lodge. Bring water, wear walking shoes, and be prepared for changeable weather. Info & directions: 298-5330, ext. 304 or 350-3822, ext. 209.

Carl Sandburg Home Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is located three miles south of Hendersonville off U.S. 25 on Little River Road.

Info: 693-4178 or www.nps.gov/carl. • TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 3pm - Park rangers offer historic walking tours. • SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS, 2:45pm - Park rangers share the history and techniques of Mrs. Sandburg’s dairy and cheesemaking operations.

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

• WE (7/29), 8am - Mills River Overlook to Pisgah Inn. Hike 9.2, Drive 30, 2000 ft. ascent. Info: 738-3395 or bcmorg@ hughes.net. • SU (8/2), 8am - Kimsey Creek Trail - Standing Indian Circuit.

Info: 369-7084 —- 9am - Devil Fork Gap to Rocky Fork Rd. Info: 654-9904 —- Noon - Devil’s Courthouse from FS 816.

Info: 749-1886. • WE (8/5), 8am - Rube Rock/Groundhog Creek Loop. Info: 883-2447.

Friends of Panthertown Work Day Volunteers are needed to maintain trails in Panthertown Valley.

No previous experience necessary. Info: 243-9800 or friends. of.panthertown@gmail.com. • TH (7/30), 9am - Meet at the Salt Rock trailhead. Work will include lopping and pruning. Tools will be provided. Bring a backpack, work gloves, water and lunch, and tools if you have them.

Haw Creek Muse Hiking Club A gathering to plan hiking trips throughout WNC. All are welcome. Info: 298-0000. • 1st SATURDAYS, 11am - Meeting.

Hickory Nut Gorge Hikes Explore this unique area with an expert. Hikes last for over two hours, and are steep and strenuous. Reservations required. $10/$5 children. Info: 350-1431 ext., 4 or Mtns_Volunteers@ tnc.org. • WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS - Guided hikes.

WNC Grand Prix A bicycle race around Lake Tomahawk in Black Mountain, hosted by the Asheville Breakfast Rotary Club, Black Mountain Rotary and the Town of Black Mountain. All proceeds benefit Child Abuse Prevention Services, Inc. and other children’s programs. Info: www.wncgrandprix.com. • SA (8/1) - WNC Grand Prix. The daylong event features professional, amateur and children’s races. Prizes will be awarded. n Volunteers are needed to serve as “traffic marshalsâ€? from 11am to 7pm. Two-hour shifts are available throughout the day.

Info: 299-4551 or don@alexrand.com.

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MORE OUTDOORS EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Outdoors Calendar online at www.mountainx. com/events for info on events happening after August 6.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m. WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

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mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 19

thedirt Poison ivy comes a creepin’

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20

farming & gardening

I take no chances with poison ivy. Its oil, urushiol, gives me little blisterlike welts that itch for weeks. But by early July, the threeleaved varmint was creeping up the chainlink fence in the dog lot, sneaking into the great swaths of English ivy that cover some corners of my yard, and even assaulting the front of my stone house. Preparing for battle, I donned boots, sweatpants, gloves, a hat and an old, long-sleeved shirt. Then I grabbed the hedge clippers.

My plan had at least one major flaw: It was hot outside, and I was dressed not for comfort but for war. Within minutes, sweat was dribbling into my eyes, yet I dared not wipe away the stinging drops: My gloves were contaminated. So I blinked. A lot.

Meanwhile, I clipped and pulled every

I dared not wipe away the stinging drops: My gloves were contaminated. three-leaved vine I saw, especially the ones with fuzzy tendrils along reddish roots. As I scrunched behind the big camellia, I slid one clipper blade between stone and root, leveraging to pull the tendrils loose, then pinching the blades almost closed so I could grip the vine without either touching or cutting it.

Into a leaf bag it went — which isn’t easy when you’re gingerly holding a long, fuzzy vine at arm’s length while negotiating the opening. But burning poison ivy is simply not an option: If you inhale any smoke, it could put you in the hospital.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Leaves of three, leave it be: Poison ivy owes its itch-producing effects to urushiol, an oil that lingers in its leaves, stems and roots even after the plant is long dead. photo by Jonathan Welch

After a few hours’ work, the dog’s yard was reasonably clear, and I was very thirsty.

Before the next campaign, I swore to seek out more tips from experts and friends.

Earlier this summer, a co-worker suffered a severe rash after battling poison ivy in her yard, despite having worn gloves and boots.

She tried all manner of home remedies (even one involving wild plantain and spit, I believe), and she wore loose, flowing skirts to work for more than a week.

I don’t do skirts. But what’s an environmentally conscious gardener to do?

State agriculture folks and several online resources touted heavy-duty herbicides, which tend to kill everything green. And a 2005 Duke University study merely reported that higher CO2 levels make poison ivy grow bigger and faster — and the urushiol seems to gain potency. In other words, this nasty plant loves global warming.

A fellow writer e-mailed me, remarking, “You’ll hate me, but I can literally pull poison ivy up with my [bare] hands and weed it out of my garden. It doesn’t bother me at all. No rash, no itching, nothing.” She promised to ask her husband what he does, noting, “He runs from it.”

I asked a landscaper what she’d do. She scrunched up her face. “That’s a tough one.

You’ve got to get the roots,” she said. If you’re avoiding the use of herbicides, old-fashioned, manual cutting and pulling is the only way, she insisted. Use a weed-eating machine, and you’ll spray the noxious debris everywhere — including your face.

Goats devour poison ivy. A local cheesemaker confirmed this, saying there used to be tons of it in her pasture, but the goats have eradicated it. Unfortunately, these nonpicky eaters will also devour just about anything else within reach, so they might not be a good choice for a mature city garden with a complement of prized perennials and bulbs. The cheese-maker also told this cautionary tale: A friend’s goats liked to give her kisses on her face. But after they’d devoured some poison ivy, she wound up with a horrible rash on her face and eyes.

Ick! My dogs don’t eat poison ivy, but they do brush up against it when they’re out and about.

Urushiol can cling to their fur (and it doesn’t matter whether the offending plant was alive or dead). So I get new rashes almost every week, even when I’m not actively doing battle.

All in all, it’s got me so paranoid I freeze in my tracks when I see anything with three leaves. I’m beginning to understand why some folks just throw in the towel and reach for the herbicides. And I admit that the seductive phrase “Just nuke it!” does come to mind. But I won’t. Instead, I’ll choose some cool morning, don my battle gear, grab the gloves and clippers, and keep pulling. As The Coasters warned in 1959, “Late at night while you’re sleepin’, poison ivy comes a creepin’ around.” X Send your garden news to mvwilliams@ mountainx.com, or call 251-1333, ext. 152.

gardeningcalendar Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009 10% July Special (pd.) Free Seminar “Winged Wonders: Gardening for Butterflies” with Ruth Gonzalez. Particular plants, sunshine, water, and shelter all foster an environment that attracts butterflies. Learn how to design a habitat, large or tiny, that entices delightful butterflies to your yard ~ for your enjoyment and their benefit. August 1 at 10 a.m. at Reems Creek Nursery, 70 Monticello Road, Weaverville, NC, www.reemscreek.com,. Free, but please pre-register at 828-645-3937. (pd.) Custom grading • Lot clearing • View enhancements • Driveways • Tree removal • Ponds • Mulch/gravel. • 15 years experience, • Insured • Free estimates. Call Britt: (828) 216-0726. Ace Grading and Landscaping.

Display Garden Grand Opening (pd.) This Saturday, August 1, 9am ceremony followed by refreshments. Over 500 labeled plant varieties in a garden setting. Rux Gardens, 2930 Old Balsam Road, Waynesville. (828) 456-4621.

Garden Composters • Rain Barrels (pd.) Asheville GreenWorks (Quality Forward), Asheville’s Keep America Beautiful, sells Garden Composters and Rain Barrels in the Green Goods Shop at 357 Depot Street. • 2 kinds of composters: an 11 cubic foot square stacked model for $85 and a 7 cubic foot tumbler that makes compost faster and looks cool for $175. • Rain Barrels are 65 gallons, are easy to install, and cost $135.

• All are made of 100% recycled plastic. • All sales benefit plantings in Asheville and Buncombe County. For more information, call 254-1776 or stop on by 357 Depot Street or visit: www.ashevillegreenworks.org Rain Barrels for Sale (pd.) The Black Mountain Beautification Committee is sponsoring a sale of 80 gallon rain barrels made of 80% recycled plastic. Price per barrel is $117.44 (including sales tax). Only 200 will be sold at this price, so place your order soon. 828-713-2622 for more information.

Summer Garden Art Sale (pd.) Haw Creek Forge invites the public to the studio August 3rd thru 7th to enjoy 20% discounts on first quality, made in America, copper garden art for decorating late summer gardens. Open Mon-Th 10-4, Friday 10-6. For directions visit www.hawcreekforge.com Herbal Talk • FR (7/31), 7-9pm - “Practical uses of herbs for health, healing and happiness,” a free talk presented by Master Herbalist Lloyd Rojewski at Isis Cove Retreat Center near Sylva. Info: 631-2305 or venusrising@shamanicbreathwork.org.

Regional Tailgate Markets For more information, including the exact start and end dates of markets, contact the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project. Info: 236-1282 or www.buyappalachian.org.

• WEDNESDAYS - 7:30-11:30am - Asheville City Market South at Biltmore Park Town Square. Info: 348-0340; 4:30-6:30pm - Open June-Sept.: Tryon Tailgate Market, across the railroad tracks from the Tryon Theatre. Info: 894-8823; 1-4pm - Open June-Oct.: Valle Crucis Farmers Market behind the Mast General store. Info: 9636511; 3-6pm - Victory Tailgate Market, 1329 Tunnel Rd., E. Asheville, past the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. Info: 775-5593; 2:30-6:30pm - Open April-Oct.: Weaverville Tailgate Market at Lake Louise. Info: 450-0708; 3:306:30pm - Open April-Oct.: West Asheville Tailgate Market behind the West End Bakery and Haywood Road Market. Info: 281-9099; 2:30-5:30pm - Open May-Oct.: Spruce Pine Farmers Tailgate Market on Pollyanna’s Porch, next to Wildflowers, on Upper Street in downtown Spruce Pine. Info: 467-2171; 2-6:30pm - Open April-Dec.: Wednesday Afternoon Downtown Tailgate Market next to the French Broad Food Co-op in downtown Asheville.

Info: 683-1607.

• WEDNESDAYS - 9am-Noon & FRIDAYS - 2-6pm - Open May-Oct.: Burke County Farmers Market. Info: 439-4460. • WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS - 8am-1pm - Open May-Oct.: Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market at the HART Theater and Shelton House parking lot on Pigeon St. Info: 627-3469; 8am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Waynesville Tailgate Market. Info: 648-6323; 8am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Watauga County Farmers Market on Hwy. 105 Ext. in Boone. Info: 355-4918; WE, 1-6pm & SA, 7am-1pm - Open May-Oct.: Cashiers Tailgate Market. Info: 230-4785.

• THURSDAYS - 3-6pm - Open May-Nov.: Flat Rock Tailgate Market. Info: 698-8775.

• FRIDAYS - 10am-2pm - Open June-Nov.: Cherokee Farmers Tailgate Market on Acquoni Road. in downtown Cherokee. Info: 554-6931; 4:30-6:30pm - Open July-Oct.: Saluda Tailgate Market in the city parking lot on the west end of town. Info: 749-9365.

• SATURDAYS - 8am-Noon - Open June-Sept.: Andrews Farmers Market at First Street in Andrews. Info: 3212006; 8am-1pm - Open April through Dec.: Asheville City Market in the Public Works parking lot on S. Charlotte St. Info: 348-0340; 8am-Noon - Open April-Dec.: North Asheville Tailgate Market on the campus of UNCA. Info: 683-1607; 7am-Noon - Open April-Nov.: Henderson County Tailgate Market at 100 N. King St. (between First and Second Avenues). Info: 693-7265; 10am-2pm - Open April-Oct.: Cedar Valley Farmers Market in downtown Murphy. Info: 361-7505; 8-11:30am - Open April-Nov.: Polk Tailgate Market in front of the Polk County Courthouse. Info: 894-2281; 8am-Noon - Open June-Oct.: Franklin Tailgate Market in Macon County at West Palmer St. Info: 349-2046; 8am-Noon - Open April-early fall: Lenoir Bluegrass Farmers Market at the Hog Waller stage. Info: 292-4664; 8am-2pm - Open yearround: French Broad Food Co-op Arts & Farm Market at 90 Biltmore Ave. in downtown Asheville. Art demos and live music. Info: 236-9367; 9am-Noon - Rutherfordton Farmers Market on Main St. in downtown Rutherfordton;

8am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Mountain Valley Farmers Market on the downtown square in Hayesville. Info: 389-3022; 8:30am-1pm - Open May-Oct.: Graham County Farmers Market in the United Community Bank parking lot in Robbinsville. Info: 479-8788; 8am-Noon Bakersville Farmers Market in the Bakersville Community Medical Clinic parking lot in Bakersville; 8:30am-12:30pm - Open April-Oct.: Yancey County Farmers Market on S. Main St. at Hwy 19E. Info: 682-0601; 9am-1pm - Open April-Nov.: Madison County Farmers & Artisans Market in the parking lot near Pittman Cafeteria up Dormitory Dr. at Mars Hill College. Info: 680-9890; 9am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Black Mountain Tailgate Market at 130 Montreat Road in Black Mountain. Info: 582-5039; 9am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Jackson County Farmers Market on Railroad Ave. at Bridge Park. Info: 507-1146; 9am-Noon - Open May-Sept.: Riceville Community Tailgate Market in the parking lot of the Riceville Community Center. Info: 298-6549; 10am-1pm - Open May-Oct.: Big Ivy Market on the grounds of the Big Ivy Community Center, 540 Dillingham Road, Barnardsville.

Info: 626-2624; 8am-Noon - Open June-Sept.: Swain County Tailgate Market in downtown Bryson City. Info: 488-3848.

• SUNDAYS, 1-5pm - Open May-Oct.: Greenlife Tailgate Market at 70 Merrimon Ave. Info: 254-5440; Noon-4pm Open April-Nov.: Sundays on the Island, cross the river at the courthouse on Main St. in Marshall; 9am-5pm - Open June-Oct.: Topton Farmers Market at the crossroads in Topton. Info: 321-9030.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 8am-Noon - Open JuneSept.: Canton Tailgate Market at the town hall in the municipal parking lot on Park St. Info: 235-2760.

• TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 7am-Noon - Open May-Oct.: Rutherford County Farmers Market on Fairgrounds Road, off Business 74 Hwy. Info: 287-6080.

• TUESDAYS, Noon-5pm & SATURDAYS, 8am-1pm - Open May-Oct.: Morganton Farmers Market behind Geppetto’s Pizza on Beach St. in Morganton. Info: 4385252; TU 3-6pm & SA 8-11am - Open June-Sept.: Marion Tailgate Market in the W. Henderson Street city parking lot. Info: 652-2215.

• TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS, 8am-2pm - Hendersonville Curb Market at Church St., directly across from the old courthouse. Info: 692-8012 or curbmarket@bellsouth.com; 7am-1pm - Open April-Dec.: Transylvania County Tailgate Market in the parking lot behind South Broad Park, next to the library in Brevard.

Info: 884-9483.

new! Southwestern

Pottery & Home Decor

MORE GARDENING EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Gardening Calendar online at www. mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after August 6.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

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

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

253-3020

Westgate Shopping Center • Asheville www.silverarmadillo.com

JEWELRY JEWELRY •• MINERALS MINERALS FOSSILS FOSSILS •• INTRIGUING INTRIGUING GIFTS GIFTS

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 21

calendar

your guide to community events, classes, concerts & galleries

Community Events & Workshops • Social & Shared-Interest Groups • Government & Politics • Seniors & Retirees • Animals • Technology • Business & Careers • Volunteering • Health Programs & Support Groups Calendar C a t e g o r i e s : Helplines • Sports Groups & Activities • Kids • Spirituality • Arts • Spoken & Written Word • Food • Festivals & Gatherings • Music • Theater • Comedy • Film • Dance • Auditions & Call to Artists Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009 Unless otherwise stated, events take place in Asheville, and phone numbers are in the 828 area code.

Day-by-day calendar is online Want to find out everything that’s happening today — or tomorrow, or any day of the week?

Go to www.mountainx. com/events.

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

Community Events & Workshops Asheville ABC Series “Assembling Ideas, Building our Futures, Connecting

Communities.” Info: www.ashevilleabc.com.

• FR (7/31), 6-8pm Green Infrastructure: Eco Building & Affordability.”

Held at Firestorm Cafe.

Buncombe Co. Parks, Greenways & Rec. Events Events are free and are held at 59 Woodfin Pl., unless otherwise noted.

To register or for more info: 250-4265.

• WE (8/5), 10:30am - Sightseers Gem Mining Expedition at the Asheville Outdoor Center, at 521 Amboy Road. $10 per bucket.

Beverages provided.

Register by July 30.

Self Defense • TU (8/4), 11:30am1pm - Sightseers Lunch & Learn on Self Defense.

Steve Ledford, instructor at WNC Center for Self Defense, will lead an informative workshop.

Register by July 30.

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.

22

Time Capsule Unearthed • TU (8/4), 9-9:30am - Church members will unearth a time capsule buried in 1959 at Mills River Presbyterian Church, 10 Presbyterian Church Road. The capsule will be opened in September. Rain date: Aug. 11. Info: 890-8065 or kziprik@aol.com.

Social & SharedInterest Groups Beginning Bridge Lessons (pd.) Starting Thursday, August 6 from 9am11:30am. 800 Fairview Road, River Ridge Shopping Center, Asheville Bridge Room. $9/lesson or $64 for 8 lessons. Contact: Kathie Swaringen: (828) 6878210 or 776-0313.

Tuesday Nights! • Single And Looking For Something Fun? (pd.) Try AVL Speed Dating! Events start at 6:30pm and are held monthly at Forest Blue Restaurant (900 Hendersonville Road).

• Next event: Tuesday, August 4, ages 45+. • To make a reservation or for more info, call (828) 274-6934 or see AVLSpeedDating.com Arise & Shine Toastmasters Ready to overcome your fear of public speaking and to enhance your communication and leadership skills? This group provides a friendly environment in which to do so. Guests have no obligation to join. Info: 776-5076.

• THURSDAYS, 7:30am - Meets at UNCA’s Highsmith Student Union.

Asheville Homeless Network Meetings take place at Firestorm Cafe & Books in downtown Asheville.

Info: 552-0505.

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

Asheville Lesbian Brunch Club Info: www.meetup. com/AshevilleLesbian-Brunch-Club

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

or Asheville-LesbianBrunch-Club-list@ meetup.com.

• SUNDAYS - Be a part of creating positive community every Sunday.

Scrabble Club Come play America’s favorite word game SCRABBLE. We have all the gear, just bring your vocabulary. Info: 2528154.

• SUNDAYS, 1-5pm Meets at Books-A-Million in Asheville. We have all the gear. No dues the first six months. Just bring your vocabulary.

Society of American Magicians Interested in the magical arts? Consider joining WNC’s local Assembly of the Society of American Magicians, the oldest magical society in the world. All experience levels welcome. Info: 712-1319 or www.wncsam.com.

• 1st TUESDAYS, 6:308pm - Monthly meeting at Denny’s on Patton Ave. Veterans for Peace Info: 582-5180.

• 1st THURSDAYS, 6:30pm - Business meeting at Buddha Bagels, 333 Merrimon Ave. Free and open to the public.

Government & Politics Buncombe County Public Meetings Info: 250-4105 or kathy. hughes@buncombecounty.org.

• 1st & 3rd TUESDAYS, 4:30pm - The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners meets in Rm. 204 of the Buncombe County Courthouse.

Buncombe Green Party Homegrown democracy without the corporate fertilizer. Come to the monthly open, and free, meeting of the Buncombe Green Party.

Info: 582-5180 or 2254347.

• 1st SATURDAYS, 10am-Noon - Business meeting upstairs in the Fortune Building, 727

weeklypicks Events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Author, artist and teacher Peter Selgin will discuss and sign copies of his book Life Goes to the

wed Movies. Held on Wednesday, July 29, at 7 p.m. at Malaprop’s Bookstore. Info: 254-6734.

Enjoy live music at the Park Rhythms Concert Series Thursday, July 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Lake

thur Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain. Eliza Lynn and her band will perform Americana and blues music.

Info: 669-8610.

fri

The Montford Park Players will bring William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew to life Friday, July 31, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheater in Montford. Bring a blanket or chair and umbrella in case of rain. Donations accepted. The show will be performed on weekends through Aug. 23. Info: 254-5146.

sat

RiverLink’s Rockin’ RiverFest will feature a raft race, parade, live music, vendors, local food, beer and more. The festivities will take place Saturday, Aug. 1, starting at 11 a.m. at the French Broad River Park. Info: www.riverlink.org.

Head to the shaded grounds of the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village this weekend for the

sun Village Art and Craft Fair Saturday, Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 2, from noon to 6 p.m. Info: 274-2831.

Stop by the Madison County Arts Council Monday, Aug. 3, and learn about WNC musical-instrument

mon makers from the current exhibit Cigar Boxes to Synthesizers. The exhibit will be on display through Friday, Aug. 7, at the council, which is located at 90 S. Main St., Marshall. Info: 649-1301.

too many vegetables to eat this summer? Attend the ”Canning and Preserving Made Easy” tue Grow class Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Lakeview Clubhouse, 401 S. Laurel Circle Drive, Black Mountain. $3. Info: 669-2052.

Haywood Road, W. Asheville. Free and open to the public. Parking on the street and in the back.

Cecil for City Council Events Info: http://cecilbothwell. wordpress.com.

• 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAYS, 7-9pm - Join Cecil for City Council campaign supporters at the Wedge Brewery in the River Arts District.

City of Asheville Public Meetings Info: www.ashevillenc. gov.

• 1st WEDNESDAYS, 5pm - The Planning and Zoning Commission meets at the City Hall, 70 Court Plaza. Info: 259-5847.

Free Hugs for Health Care Reform • FRIDAYS, 5-8pm - Join local Obama supporters and give free hugs for health care reform. Pick up signs at Mountain Java in north Asheville at 5pm.

WNC for Change Health Care Campaign Office • MONDAYS through SATURDAYS, 2-8pm - Visit the campaign office inside Mountain Java coffeeshop in north Asheville. Learn how you can fight for health care reform.

Seniors & Retirees Henderson County Senior Softball League The league is always looking for new players, age 50 and older.

Weather permitting, they play year-round.

Info: 698-3448 or www.

LJRsoftball.com.

• TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS - Morning games at Jackson Park in Hendersonville.

Land-of-Sky’s Retired Senior Volunteer Program RSVP places adults age 55 and older in local nonprofit and charitable agencies in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties.

Help make the community a better place for all. Info: 251-6622 or patti@landofsky.org.

• TH (7/30), 10-11am - Volunteer orientation.

Learn more about volunteering through RSVP. Registration required.

Animals Mayfel’s Dog Days of Summer (pd.) Every Thursday through August patrons are invited to come eat and drink with their furry friends in our front patio or back courtyard, 22 College Street, downtown Asheville, 2528840. Complimentary dog treats provided! This week 10% of proceeds will go to Full Moon Farm.

Animal Compassion Network WNC’s largest nonprofit, no-kill animal welfare organization. Find a new pet at their pet adoption events. Info: 274-DOGS or www.animalcompassionnetwork.org.

n Volunteers needed: volunteers@animalcompassionnetwork.org.

• 1st & 3rd SATURDAYS, 11am-3pm - ACN cats and dogs will be available for adoption at PetSmart.

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

• SUNDAYS, 11am-3pm - Come help a chained dog experience freedom.

No experience necessary. We meet 4 times a month within Asheville or Buncombe County to build a fence for a chained dog.

Transylvania Animal Alliance Group For information about T.A.A.G., or donations of time or resources, 966-3166, taagwags@ citcom.net or www.taag. petfinder.com.

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mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 23

• SATURDAYS, 11am4pm - Adoption Days at PETsMART on Airport Road in Arden. View adoptable animals on our website: www. taagwags.org

Business & Careers A-B Tech Events • TU (8/4), 10am “Understanding Lawful Employment,” will be held at the Haynes Center at A-B Tech, Enka Campus. A special agent from the ICE/DHS will be the keynote speaker and a local panel of HR experts will be present to answer questions.

Free. Registration is required. Info: 232-4505 or spowers@ashevillend.gov.

Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce Located at 36 Montford Ave. Info: 258-6101 or www.ashevillechamber. org.

• TH (7/30), 8-9am - Bagels and Banter.

Hosted by the YMCA of WNC at the new YMCA in Woodfin. Leah McGrath, the Ingles dietitian, will discuss healthy meal ideas, and will be presenting with Mayor Terry Bellamy during the breakfast. $10 nonmembers.

Register online.

Financial Workshop for Individual Investors • THURSDAYS, (8/6 through 8/27), 6:308pm - Edward Jones Financial Advisor Jay Womack will host a “Financial Workshop for Individual Investors.”

Held at Mt. Pisgah Seventh Day Adventist Church, 21 Academy Dr., Candler. Free and open to the public.

Mountain BizWorks Workshops Mountain BizWorks is located at 153 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville.

• TH (7/30), 6-9pm - “Creative Marketing & Sales.” Registration & info: naomi@mountainbizworks.org —- 6-9pm - “Creative Marketing & Media Design” at Hendersonville office.

Registration & info: adriana@mountainbizworks.org.

Volunteering Ashevillage Institute (AVI)

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Nonprofit eco-urban education center and living laboratory for sustainable solutions.

Info or to RSVP: 2258820, info@ashevillage. org or www.ashevillage. org.

• THURSDAYS, 9am5pm - Volunteer days and potluck lunch.

Volunteers needed in: gardening, permaculture, stonework, carpentry, marketing, administration, fundraising, business development.

Asheville City Schools Foundation Seeking Academic Coaches (tutors/mentors) to support students by assisting them with a variety of tasks that support educational success. One hr/wk min., for one school year, in your choice of school or after school program. Training provided. Info: 350-6135, terri.wells@asheville. k12.nc.us or www.acsf. org.

• MONDAYS through FRIDAYS, 8:30am4:45pm - Academic coaching in the schools or at after-school programs, once a week.

Beaucatcher Brew Bringing the community to the stage. This musical folk-life play is presented by Homeward Bound of Asheville. Info: 768-2456 or becky@ hbofa.org.

• TUESDAYS, 10am - Volunteer meeting at Haywood Street Campus, Central Methodist Church, past the Rescue Mission.

Seeking story-gatherers, transcribers, office assistants, grant writers and more.

Bountiful Cities Project A nonprofit that creates, manages and, in some cases, owns community gardens on Asheville’s urban land. Info: 2574000 or info@bountifulcitiesproject.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 38:30pm - Community Garden Workdays.

Volunteers appreciated at Pearson Drive garden located in the Montford neighborhood. Info: 273-8151 or 257-4000 and leave a message.

Catholic Social Services n Volunteers are needed throughout the week.

Info: 255-0146.

• WEDNESDAYS, 1-4pm - Direct Assistance Day. Help sort clothing, shelve food, pack bags

of food and more. Call for details.

Dogwood Alliance Info: www.dogwoodalliance.org.

• Seeking volunteers and interns to join Dogwood Alliance in protecting Southern forests. No experience required. Learn about activism and the environment, working with the media, or organizing events. Assist with research and office work. Info: 251-2525, ext. 14 or ngarrett@ dogwoodalliance.org.

Donations of Children’s Clothing Needed • Through MO (8/31) - The Salvation Army will be collecting children’s clothing for Back-To-School, a program that distributes outfits to children 12 and under. Drop off items at Salvation Army: 1079 Patton Ave., W. Asheville and at 204 Haywood St. Graffiti Removal Action Teams Join Asheville GreenWorks in combating graffiti vandalism in our community.

Removing quickly and keeping covered is the best way to reduce graffiti. Info: 254-1776.

• THURSDAYS - Graffiti removal.

Men and Women Wanted Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for persons age 18 and older to share outings twice a month with youth from single-parent homes.

Activities are free or low-cost, such as sports, local attractions etc. Volunteers also needed to mentor during the 2009-10 school year. Info: 253-1470 or www.bbbswnc.org.

• TU (8/4), Noon - An Information Session for interested volunteers will be held at the United Way Building, S. French Broad Ave., Room 213.

Special Olympics Buncombe County Info: 250-4265 or grace.young@buncombecounty.org.

• MO (8/3) through MO (8/31) - Sign up to be a volunteer cheerleader for the Special Olympic events scheduled for the fall and winter. No experience is necessary. Practice begins in September. Call for details and to pick up

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

a physical and consent form.

The Lord’s Acre A Faith Garden Project organized and sponsored by local churches and volunteers who have come together to help provide food for families in need.

Located in Fairview.

Info: thelordsacre@ gmail.com.

• WEDNESDAYS, 6-8pm - Volunteers are needed.

• SATURDAYS, 8-11am - Volunteers are needed.

Health Programs & Support Groups Shoji Spa Discounts and Events (pd.) • Locals Discount: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. • SPArty: Wednesday evenings, 68 p.m. Drinks, food and music, free. 828-2990999. www.shojiretreats.com Stop Being A Slave to Compulsive Habits, Depression and Anxiety (pd.) Studies have proven that self-destructive patterns involving food, alcohol/drugs, overspending and moods all have a common emotional root. • Retrain your brain and emotions using mindfulness skills • Create a secure relationship with yourself. • Incline your mind towards joy, away from stress response • Experience resilience with lasting gains • 6 week courses beginning soon! • 231-2107 or email: empowering. solutions@yahoo.com Al-Anon Al-Anon is a support group for the family and friends of alcoholics.

More than 33 groups are available in the WNC area. Info: 800-2861326 or www.wnc-alanon.org.

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

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

Separate Newcomers’ Meeting meets also at 8pm. Info: 258-4799.

• THURSDAYS, 7pm - Discussion meeting for parents of children

with addictions: West Asheville Presbyterian Church, 690 Haywood Road, across from Ingles. Info: 242-6197.

• FRIDAYS, 8pm - The Lambda (GLBT) group of Al-Anon is a gayfriendly support group for families and friends of alcoholics, and holds their weekly candlelight meeting at All Souls Cathedral, 3 Angle St. Info: 670-6277 (until 9pm).

• FRIDAYS, 12:301:30pm - Discussion meeting: First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St. Park in the back of lot between Church and Y. Info: 686-8131.

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

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

Beginners welcome.

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

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

Info: 281-1566.

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

• TUESDAYS, Noon - Black Mountain Group meets at St. James Episcopal Church, 424 W. State St. Info: 2778620.

• TUESDAYS, 7pm - Discussion meeting: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Info: 2536624.

Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Disorders Offered throughout WNC by the Alzheimer’s Association. For additional listings and more info: 254-7363.

Alzheimer’s Association 24-hour helpline: (800) 272-3900.

• WEDNESDAYS starting (9/9) - A five-week Early-Stage MemoryLoss Support Group for

people diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and their caregivers. Held at two locations: Skyland South Asheville Branch of the Buncombe County Library, 260 Overlook Road and at Weaverville Town Hall, 30 S. Main St. Registration and a confidential phone interview required.

Interviews begin August 3.

C.L.O.S.E.R.R. Community Liaison Organization for Support, Education, Reform and Referral.

The group offers support, networking, education, entertainment and fellowship for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexual, Straight and their Allies.

• TUESDAYS, 7-9pm - Meets in the social room at All Souls Episcopal in Asheville.

Cancer Support Group for Caregivers • MONDAYS, 11amNoon - Meetings at Jubilee, 46 Wall St., Asheville. Emotional support for family members of people experiencing cancer.

Facilitated by Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Info: 299-0394.

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

Facilitated by Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Info: 299-0394.

Dual Recovery Group Group meets at the Black Mountain Presbyterian Church House, 117 Montreat Road. For individuals who have a chemical dependency, emotional, and/or psychiatric illness and need support.

A 12-step based program. Info: 357-8403.

• TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS, 8pm Group meets.

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

• WEDNESDAYS, 7-8pm - Support group for adults at T.H.E. Center for Disordered Eating, 297 Haywood St. Free.

Essential Tremor Support Group Info: 687-2356 or bchhenze@bellsouth.net.

• 1st THURSDAYS, 6-7pm - Meeting at Symour Auditorium, CarePartners, Sweeten Creek Rd. Events at Pardee Hospital All programs held at the Pardee Health Education Center in the Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville. Free, but registration and appointments required unless otherwise noted.

To register or for info: www.pardeehospital.org or 692-4600.

• MO (8/3), 10am-Noon - “Look Good, Feel Better.” Open to female cancer patients to help overcome the appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Free make-up and wigs are provided.

• TH (8/6), 3-4:30pm - Balance and Fall Prevention class with Chloe Egan, a Pardee licensed physical therapist. Registration required.

Food Addicts Anonymous A fellowship of men and women who are willing to recover from the disease of food addiction.

Sharing experiences and hope with others allows participants to recover from the disease one day at a time. All are welcome. Info: 2423717.

• MONDAYS, Noon1pm & FRIDAYS, 7-8pm - Meetings at Biltmore United Methodist Church, 376 Hendersonville Road, Asheville.

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

• WE (7/29), 6:30pm - “Neuroplasticity,” with Dr. Michael S. Trayford, a Certified Chiropractic Neurologist.

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

: Blood Drive dates and locations are listed below. Appointment and ID required.

• WE (7/29), 11am3:30pm - Hendersonville Country Club, 1860 Hebron Road. Info: 6922261.

• Th (7/30), 10am2:30pm - Pardee Rehab & Wellness, 212-B Thompson Street. Info: 698-6674 —- 2-6:30pm - Carillon Assisted Living of Hendersonville, 3851 Howard Gap Road. Info: 693-0700.

K.A.R.E. Support Groups Kid’s Advocacy Resource Effort offers several ongoing support groups. Info: 456-8995.

• WEDNESDAYS, 5:30-7:30pm - Single Parents Support Group.

Dinner and childcare provided. At First United Methodist Church, 566 S. Haywood St., Waynesville. Call ext.

201 for more info.

Overcomers Recovery Support Group A Christian-based 12step recovery program.

Provides a spiritual plan of recovery for people struggling with lifecontrolling problems.

Meetings are held at 32 Rosscraggon Road.

All are welcome. Info: rchovey@sos.spc-asheville.org.

• TUESDAYS, 7-8pm - Meeting.

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

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

• SATURDAYS, 9:30am - Black Mountain: Carver Parks & Recreation Center, 101 Carver Ave. off Blue Ridge Road. Open relapse and recovery mtg. Info: 669-0986.

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

Info: 1-800-580-4761.

• MONDAYS, 5:15pm - Asheville: First

Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Beginners mtg.

Info: 277-8185.

• MONDAYS, 6pm - Asheville: First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Open mtg. Info: 277-8185.

• TUESDAYS, 10:30amNoon - Asheville: Grace Episcopal Church, 871 Merrimon Ave. at Ottari.

Open BBSS mtg. Info: 280-2213.

Park Ridge Hospital Park Ridge Hospital is located in Fletcher and hosts a number of free events, including cholesterol screenings, vision screenings, PSA screenings, bone density checks for women, lectures, numerous support groups and a Kid Power program.

Info: 687-3947 or www. parkridgehospital.org.

• Through FR (8/28) - August 2009 WOW Events: Free vision screenings, cholesterol screenings and bonedensity checks, plus $10 PSA screenings.

Call or see Web site for locations and times.

Pet Loss Support Group For anyone who has lost a pet or is anticipating the death of a companion animal. Free. Info: 258-3229.

• 1st WEDNESDAYS, 6pm - The group meets at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Asheville, 1 Edwin Pl. Red Cross Events & Classes Red Cross holds classes in CPR/First Aid for infants, children, and adults; Babysitter Training; Pet First Aid; Bloodborne Pathogens; Swimming & Water Safety; and Lifeguarding. All classes held at chapter headquarters, 100 Edgewood Rd. To register, call 258-3888, ext. 221.

Info: www.redcrosswnc. org. : Bloodmobile Drive dates and locations are listed below.

Appointment and ID required.

• TH (7/30), 2-6:30pm - Francis Asbury United Methodist Church, 725 Asbury Road, Candler.

Info: 667-3950.

• FR (7/31), 1:30-6pm - Ingles in Swannanoa, 2299 US Hwy 70. Info: 686-5410.

• MO (8/3), 1:305:30pm - Fairview

Fire Department, 1586 Charlotte Hwy. Info: 628-0128, • WE (8/5), 3-7pm Hominy Baptist Church, 135 Candler School Road. Info: 667-4541.

• TH (8/6), Noon4:30pm - Kerr Drug, 275 McDowell St. Info: 255-5870.

S-Anon For those affected by someone else’s sexual behavior. Info: 5454287 or 606-6803.

• WEEKLY - Three meetings are available per week.

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

We share our experience, strength and hope to help solve our common problems.

Meetings held weekly in Asheville, Fletcher and Waynesville. Call confidential voice mail for information: 258-5117.

• WEEKLY - Meetings.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous SLAA is a 12-step fellowship of men and women who have a desire to stop living out a pattern of sex and love addiction. Meetings are held in downtown Asheville. Open to all sexual orientations. Info: AshevilleSLAA@gmail. com.

• SATURDAYS, 10am - First Congregational United Church of Christ, 20 Oak St. Transitions: Job Loss Resource & Support Group • WEDNESDAYS, 3pm Meets at the First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville, located at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Church Street in downtown Hendersonville. Info: www.hvlfumc.org/transitions or 693-4275.

Western Highlands Network Events Info: 258-3511 ext.

2232.

• TH (8/27) through WE (9/2) - Peer Employment Training (PET), preparing individuals to work as Peer Support Trainers. Training is targeted towards individuals who have recovered from mental illness or addiction issues and are interested in helping others achieve their goals. Register by Aug. 10. Info: 225-2785, ext.

2908.

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

Sports Groups & Activities Asheville Masters Swimming • MONDAYS through FRIDAYS, 5:45-7:15am & SATURDAYS, 7-9am - Fitness, competitive and triathlon swimmers welcome at Asheville Country Club. Info: www.ashevillemasters. com.

Disc Golf Check the kiosk at Richmond Hill Park for events and nearby tournaments. Info: 6809626 or www.wncdiscgolf.com.

• SUNDAYS, 4pm Doubles at Waynesville Rec Park.

• MONDAYS, 5:30pm - Doubles at Black Mountain Park.

• 1st MONDAYS, 7pm - Club meeting.

• TUESDAYS, 5:30pm - Doubles at Richmond Hill Park.

Monday Night Women’s Road Ride • MONDAYS, 6-8pm - Sponsored by ABRC. Meet at Youngblood Bicycles, 233 Merrimon Ave. Be ready to ride at 6pm Approx. 27 miles at 12-15mph; no one left behind. Info: 254-4578.

Pickleball It’s like playing ping pong on a tennis court.

For all ages. $1 per session. Paddles and balls are provided. Info: 350-2058.

• MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 9-11am Meets at Stephens-Lee Rec Center, 30 George Washington Carver St. (take S. Charlotte to Max St.).

Thursday Night Track Races • THURSDAYS, 5-9pm Meets at Carrier Park on Amboy Road. Register at 5pm; races begin at 6pm. Various races, fixed gear bikes, no brakes. Weather permitting. Info: 254-4578.

Waynesville Recreation Center Located at 550 Vance St. in Waynesville. Info: 456-2030 or recathletics@townofwaynesville. org.

• MONDAYS through FRIDAYS (through 8/7) -

Beginner to intermediate level group swimming lessons. Call to register.

Wednesday Night Mountain Bike Ride • WEDNESDAYS, 6:309pm - Meets at Rice Pinnacle parking lot at Bent Creek. Distance/ route will vary; no one left behind. Info: 2514686.

Women’s Martial Arts • SATURDAYS (through 8/22), 10am - Grandmaster Brian Adams offers a special women’s introductory martial arts, to encourage self-confidence using Chinese, Japanese and Filipino techniques.

Info: 595-1455 or http:// integratedmartialarts. net. Free and open to the public.

and more. Campers will need to pack a lunch. $35 per day. Register

by July 31. Info: 2504265 or grace.young@ buncombecounty.org.

Events For Kids At Historic Johnson Farm Located at 3346 Haywood Rd. in Hendersonville. There are two nature trails (free), and guided tours are offered ($5/$3).

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

• MONDAYS, 11am - “Grand and Me” is an opportunity for parents, guardians and/or grand-

parents to bond with children while receiving a hands-on history lesson. Plus, meet the animals at the barn. $5 adults.

Kids Corner Market A series of free activities for kids at the Asheville City Market. Organized by Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project to get children excited about fresh food and physical activity. Info: 236-1282 or brook@ asapconnections.org.

• SA (8/1), 10am12:30pm - Obstacle course with the YMCA.

Thomas the Tank Engine Thomas the storybook engine will roll into the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 226 Everett St., Bryson City. $18.

Info: www.ticketweb. com/thomas or www. gsmr.com.

• Through SU (8/2) - Family-friendly rides on a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine. See Web site for schedule.

Spirituality 20th Of Each Month • Heal Yourself And Mother Earth (pd.) Participate in worldwide long-distance group EssenceWork TM sessions. • Registration deadline: 15th of each month. • Private sessions, please call Lania Desmond: (828) 2361230 or www.soulpoint. com/essence-work.html A Women’s Retreat On ‘Zen Mind, Writing Mind’ (pd.) Writing retreat for women will be held

Kids Summer Savings • Only $69 Per Week (pd.) The Martial Arts & Sports Summer Camp. Ages 6 - 15 split classes. June 15 through August 14. Call 251-5425 or visit www. centerformartialartsusa.net At The Health Adventure Free first Wed. of every month from 3-5pm. Hours: Tues.Sat., 10am-5pm & Sun., 1-5pm. $8.50 adults/$7.50 students & seniors/$6 kids 211. Program info or to RSVP: 254-6373, ext.

324. Info: www.thehealthadventure.org.

• MONDAYS through FRIDAYS (through Aug.), 10:30am - Story time.

• Through SU (9/6) - Arthur’s World, the national touring exhibition based on the PBS children’s television series and popular Marc Brown books, will be on display.

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center Milepost 384.

• TH (7/30), 7-8:30pm - Family Photo Fest.

Bring your favorite Parkway photo and camera to share your digital photo on a large screen. The kid-friendly program and activities are free, but registration is required. Info: 2985330, ext. 304, or 3503822, ext. 209.

Camp Julian Day Camp • MO (8/10) through FR (8/21), 7:30am5:30pm - Campers will learn about kayaking, camping, swimming

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 25

August 7-9 at Great Tree Zen Temple. Teacher Peggy Tabor Millin.

Includes silence, solitude, community, meditation, writing practice.

Cost: $150. Register through www.greattreetemple.org • Questions: (828) 645-2085 or info@greattreetemple. 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. (828)2583229.

Attention Wild Women!

Anxious, Stuck, Faltering? (pd.) Learn how Wild Woman’s wise, instinctual nature can help you reclaim yourSelf! • Sacred Women’s Circle: Saturdays, August 1 or 22. Donation. • 6 week circle begins September.

Registration/information: (828) 232-4394.

Buying And Selling Metaphysical, Occult, And Self-Care Books (pd.) Monday-Saturday.

5428 Asheville Hwy (Hwy 25) 1/2 mile South, I-26 exit 44 next to Crystal Visions.

(828) 681-5580. www. newvisionsmarketplace. com

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Founders of New Thought Classes (pd.) Tuesdays, 7-9pm, June 2-August 4. At Center for Spiritual Living, 2 Science of Mind Way. More information, call: (828) 253-2325 or (828) 2537472.

A Course in Miracles Classes For anyone sincerely interested in joining a loving group for ACIM study and practice. The group meets at Groce United Methodist Church in East Asheville. Info: 712-5472.

• MONDAYS, 6:30pm Study group meets.

A Mountain Mindfulness Sangha Part of the World Community of Mindful Living, inspired by the teachings of THICH NHAT HANH, the group practices mindfulness as the energy of being aware and awake to the present moment.

Practicing with a “sangha” (a community) can bring both joy and support. All are invited.

Info & directions: mountainmindfulness@gmail. com, 684-7359 or 2999382.

• SU (8/2), 5:307pm - Thich Nhat Hanh Dharma Talk: DVD showing of “The Practice of True Love” at Anattasati Magga

sangha house, 12 Von Ruck Court.

All One Asheville “Friends of NonDuality.” Share silence while exploring non-dual teachers and living in the Now Present Moment. Meetings at various locations.

Info: 216-7051 or BeHereNow28804@ yahoo.com.

• SUNDAYS, 7pm Discover true fulfillment.

Silent sitting and video satsang with Western spiritual teacher Gangaji. New location at Serventhood House, 156 East Chestnut St., near Greenlife.

Asheville Meditation Center Classes are held at the Greenlife Community Center, 90 Merrimon Ave., unless otherwise noted. Info: 505-2300 or www.meditateasheville.org.

• THURSDAYS, 6:307:30pm - Meditation Circle. Held at One World Healing Arts Institute, 2 Sulphur Springs Road, W. Asheville. Donations accepted.

Asheville Satsang With Gangaji Info: 216-7051 or nckristinenelson@yahoo. com.

• SUNDAYS, 7pm Discover true fulfillment.

Silent sitting and video satsang with Western

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

spiritual teacher Gangaji. New location at Serventhood House, 156 East Chestnut St., near Greenlife.

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

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

• SA (8/1), 3-4pm - Celtic Christian Lughnassadh Service.

Held outdoors unless it rains.

Bruno Groening Circle of Friends Help and healing the spiritual way through the teachings of Bruno Groening. Participants are asked to attend an introduction before coming to the regular community hour. Info: 393-0630.

• TU (8/4), 7-8:30pm - Healing the spiritual way. At Skyland/South Buncombe Library, 260 Overlook Road. Please attend an Introduction first. Love offering.

Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered, biblically based recovery ministry. Weekly fellowship and support meetings deal with real-life issues, including divorce, co-depen-

dency, anger, control, chemical dependency, sexual addictions, hurtful relationships, eating disorders, depression, and other addictive, compulsive or dysfunctional behaviors. Info: 687-1111.

• THURSDAYS, 6pm10pm - Evenings at Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden.

Chabad Asheville Jewish Asheville and WNC Chabad Lubavitch Center for Jewish Life.

Info: www.chabadasheville.org.

• 1st SATURDAYS, 9:30am-1:15pm - First Shabbat of the Month at The Chabad House.

Services, EnglishHebrew prayers, sermons and stories, and timeless melodies.

Educational and fun children’s program from 11am-noon. Followed by a Kiddush luncheon.

All are welcome.

Membership and affiliation not required.

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

• 1st WEDNESDAYS, 6:30-9pm - Pagans Night Out. Meet at the Bier Garden in downtown Asheville.

First Congregational Church Located at 20 Oak St. in downtown Asheville.

“An open and affirming congregation.” Info: 252-8729 or www.uccasheville.org.

• SUNDAYS (through 9/6), 10am - Summer worship service with Rev. Joe Hoffman and Rev. Shannon Spencer.

Childcare is provided.

FCUCC is an open and affirming congregation; all are welcome.

Journey Expansion Team (JET) • THURSDAYS, 7-9pm - An inspiration of James Ray featured on Oprah/The Secret. Join a group of like-minded people who want to share with others The Law Of Vibration and other Universal Laws. Meetings held in Fletcher/Asheville. Info: 329-7145 or kimberlycroteau@ yahoo.com.

Maharishi’s Transcendental Meditation Technique Transcend the busy, active mind — effortlessly — for peace, bliss and full awakening

of creative intelligence.

The most effective, extensively researched meditation. Revitalizes mind/body, relieves worry and anxiety, improves brain functioning. Free. Info: 2544350 or www.meditationasheville.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7:15pm - At the Asheville TM Center, 165 E. Chestnut.

Mindfulness Meditation Class Explore the miracle of healing into life through deepened stillness and presence. Info: 2583241 or www.billwalz. com.

• MONDAYS, 7-8pm - Meditation class with lesson and discussions in contemporary Zen living. At the Asheville Friends Meeting House at 227 Edgewood Ave. (off Merrimon Ave.).

Donation.

Mountain Zen Practice Center Ending suffering through the practice of Conscious Compassionate Awareness. Located at 156 E. Chestnut St. Info: 253-4621 or www.mountainzen.org.

Orientation required for newcomers.

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

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

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

Info: 206-2009.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm - Meeting.

Namaste Sacred Events Located at 57 Broadway. Info: 2536985.

• 1st & 3rd SUNDAYS, 6-8pm - Hare Krsna Love Feast. An evening of chanting the Holy Names in the association of Asheville devotees, reading Vedic scriptures and enjoying a vegetarian feast.

Info: www.highthinkingsimpleliving.org or 586-3919.

Sojourner Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

A congregation in formation. The goal is provide a caring, nonthreatening environment for the exploration of Christian spirituality.

Info: www.sojournerchurch.org.

• SUNDAYS, 9:30am - Worship —- 10:30am - Fellowship. Lower floor of Morningside Baptist Church, 14 Mineral Springs Road, Asheville.

Sri Sri Sri Shivabalayogi Meditation Group Receive initiation into Sri Swamiji’s one-hour meditation technique.

One-hour of silent meditation followed

by Bhajans (devotional singing). Free.

Directions & info: 2993246 or www.shivabalayogiguru.org.

• WEDNESDAYS, 7pm - Meditation. Holy Ash and meditation instructions provided.

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

• TUESDAYS, 6:30pm - Meditation for personal and spiritual growth.

Unity Cafe Looking for a change from the usual Sunday service? Spiritual conversation and sharing, music, meditation, coffee and pastry. Info: 254-8488 or www.

SacredNature.com/unitycafe.html.

• 1st, 3rd & 5th SUNDAYS, 10amNoon - Weekly service at Greenlife Grocery Community Center, 90 Merrimon Ave. Unity Center Events Celebrate joyful, mindful living in a church with heart. Contemporary music by Lytingale and The Unitic Band.

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

• WE (7/29), 7pm - Labyrinth Walk with Sam Richardson. Walk a labyrinth and discover the healing, magical power of this ancient energy pattern. Love offering.

• SUNDAYS, 9:30am & 11am - Two Sunday Celebration Services.

Children’s nursery available during both services —- 11am

- Children’s Sunday School (ages 4 to 18).

• WE (8/5), 7pm “Cosmic Energy: How It’s Effecting Us Today.” $11 suggested love offering.

Wild Woman Is Calling You • SA (8/1) - Come explore the Wild Woman archetype that lives within. She is your deepest instinctual self, your wholeness, your inner knowing. By donation. For info on this and other Wild Woman events: 768-0477 or 633-1404.

Art Gallery Exhibits & Openings 16 Patton Gallery hours: Tues.Sat., 11am-6pm and Sun., 1-6pm (open on Sun. May-Oct. only).

Info: 236-2889 or www.16patton.com.

• Through SU (8/23) - Richard Oversmith: Recent Works will be on display.

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

• Through FR (7/31) - The theme for this month’s exhibit in the Oui Oui Gallery is “I Walk Alone,” featuring works by Amanda Riddle, Ruth Robinson, Ruth Robinson and others.

Art at UNCA Art exhibits and events at the university are free, unless otherwise noted. Info: 251-6559.

Blowers Gallery info: 251-6546. Highsmith University Union info: 232-5000.

• Through TH (8/6) Reflective Iridescences on Canvas, mixed media

by Norbert W. Irvine will be on display in the Highsmith University Union Gallery.

• Through FR (8/28) - Inmate Art, drawings and collages by student-inmates at Avery Mitchell Correctional Facility, will be on display in Blowers Gallery.

Art With a Purpose • FR (7/31), 6-8pm - Art exhibit featuring mixed media mosaic ar by various artists.

Featured artist: Ramona Hovey, local artist and domestic violence awareness advocate. At 32 Rosscraggon Road, in the Rosscraggon Business Park. Info: rchovey@sos.spc-asheville.org.

Arts Council of Henderson County D. Samuel Neill Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 15pm and Sat., 1-4pm.

Located at 538 N. Main St., 2nd Floor, Hendersonville. Info: 693-8504 or www. acofhc.org.

• Through FR (7/31) Postcards, a collaborative traveling exhibit of postcard-sized original paintings by artists from WNC framed in black shadow boxes.

Asheville Art Museum The museum is in Pack Place Education, Arts and Science Center on Pack Square. Hours: Tues.-Sat. from 10am5pm and Sun. from 15pm. Free the 1st Wed. of every month from 3-5pm. Info: 253-3227. $6/$5.

• Through SU (12/6) - Cherokee Carvers: Tradition Renewed examines different aspects of late 20th and early 21st century Cherokee carving.

• Through SU (8/23) - Tradition/Innovation: American Masterpieces of Southern Craft & Traditional Art. • Through SU (9/13) Response and Memory: The Art of Beverly Buchanan.

Asheville Gallery of Art A co-op gallery representing 28 regional artists located at 16 College St. Hours: Mon.Sat., 10am-5:30pm and Sun.: 1-4pm. Info: 2515796 or www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com.

• Through FR (7/31) - Potpourri, a collection of watercolor and pastel paintings by Al Junek.

• SA (8/1) through MO (8/31) - Internal Landscape, a collection of abstract oil paintings

by Cindy Walton.

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

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

• Through FR (7/31) New paintings by August Hoerr, new works by Galen Bernard, new

raku by Scott Haines and Jann Welch.

Black Mountain Center for the Arts Located in the renovated Old City Hall at 225 West State St. in Black Mountain. Gallery Hours: Mon.-Wed. & Fri., 10am-5pm (closed Sat. during winter months).

Info: 669-0930 or www.

BlackMountainArts.org.

• Through FR (7/31) - Lay of the Land: Interpretations of the Landscape in Oil and Pastel, an exhibit by Susan Sinyai, will be on display in the Upper Gallery.

• WE (8/5) through FR (9/18) - Captured on Canvas, a solo exhibit by photographer Susan Stanton.

Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center The center is located at 56 Broadway, and preserves the legacy of the Black Mountain College through permanent collections, educational activities and public programs. Info: 350-8484 or bmcmac@bellsouth. net.

• FR (7/10) through SA (11/07) - Astronomy Drawings by Dorothea Rockburne.

Blue Spiral 1 The gallery at 38 Biltmore Ave. is open Mon.-Sat., 10am-6pm.

Info: 251-0202 or www. bluespiral1.com.

• Through SU (9/20) - Will Henry Stevens (1881-1949) + Tom Turner: Stevens’ never-before exhibited abstracts paired with Turner’s porcelain. Alice R. Ballard: natureinspired ceramics.

Alex Bernstein, Julyan Davis, Charles Goolsby: glass sculpture and paintings.

Castell Photography A photo based art gallery located at 2C Wilson Alley, off of Eagle St. in downtown Asheville. Info: 2551188 or www.castellphotography.com.

• Through SA (8/1) - Photography by Aspen Hochhalter, Julie Mixon, Brie Castell and Govind Garg.

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

• Through SA (8/29) - Anthropogenic, new work by Matt Jacobs and Eric Knoche.

freewillastrology ARIES (March 21-April 19):

Are you a gelatinous pool of longing yet? Are you a perfumed garden of madly blooming purple explosions? Are you throbbing and gooey and half-nauseous with that delicious sickness some people called love? If not, I don’t know what to tell you. By all astrological reckoning your gut should be swarming with drunk butterflies and the clouds should be taking on the shapes of mating horses. If you’re not half-drowning in these symptoms, I implore you to find a way to pry open the floodgates.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

You’re primed to cancel a jinx in the coming days, Taurus. You could help someone (maybe even yourself) escape a bewitchment, and you might be able to soothe a wound that has been festering for a long time. In fact, I’m playing with the fantasy that you are now the living embodiment of a lucky charm. At no other time in recent memory have you had so much power to reverse the effects of perverse karma, bad habits, and just plain negative vibes. Your hands and eyes are charged with good medicine. Other parts of you are, too, which means sexual healing could be in the works. But as you embark on your mission to cure everyone you love, remember the first law of the soul doctor: “Physician, heal thyself.”

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):

The Norwegians used to have a concept called svoermere, which meant something sweetly futile or deliciously unprofitable. While I can see the appeal that your particular version of svoermere has had for you, Gemini, I think it’s time to think about moving on. According to my reading of the omens, you have both a right and a duty to seek out more constructive pleasures that not only make you feel really good but also serve your long-term goals.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):

It’s Freedom from Want Week! For Cancerians only! During this uncanny grace period, you might actually feel perfectly contented. It’s quite possible that you’ll be free from the obsession to acquire more security, more love, more proof of your greatness, more chotchkes, more everything. You may even make the shocking discovery that you don’t need nearly as much as you thought you did in order to be happy; that maybe you have a lot to learn about getting more out of what you already have.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

Would you like to spend the next 30 years working your assets off to make your bosses rich? If not, I suggest you start formulating Plan B immediately.

The astrological time is not exactly ripe to extricate yourself from the wicked game, but it’s ripe to begin scheming and dreaming about how to extricate yourself. Here’s a tip to get you in the mood. Assume that there’s some validity in the meme that mythologist Joseph Campbell articulated: “Follow your bliss and the money will come.” Then ask yourself, “Do I even know what my bliss is? Not my mild joy or diversionary fun but my unadulterated bliss?” Once you know that, you can follow it. And then, inevitably — although it may take a while — the money will follow.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

As the season of riddles and paradoxes kicks into high gear, I present you with a two-part quiz. Question 1: Since it has taken you your whole life to become the person you are today, is it reasonable to expect that you can transform yourself in a flash? Question 2: On the other hand, since you are more creative than you give yourself credit for, and are also in an astrological phase when your ability to change is greater than usual, is it reasonable to assume that you must remain utterly stuck in your old ways of doing things?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

So much to say and do. So little time. Is it OK if I pepper you with pithy hints? It’s the only way to fit everything in. Here goes. There’s strength in numbers, Libra. So travel in packs. Round up support and whip up group fervor. Always say “we,” not “I.” Add at least one new friend and bolster at least one old friendship. Think before you act, but always act instead of watching from afar. Avoid doing stupid things in smart ways. To court

good luck, do charity work. To ensure that extra favors will come your way later this year, do extra favors now.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

The Biblical book of Isaiah prophesies a future time of undreamed-of harmony and cooperation. “The wolf will romp with the lamb,” reads one translation. “Cow and bear will graze in the same pasture, their calves and cubs will grow up together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox.” I have it on good astrological authority that you’re now eligible for a preview of this paradisiacal state. To receive your free introductory offer, you need only meet one condition. You must vow not to harm any living thing — not even a cockroach. Not even the person you love best.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

You Sagittarians are famous for filling your cups too full. Sometimes this is cute. Sometimes it’s a problem for those who don’t like Cabernet Sauvignon sloshed on their hand-woven Persian rugs. This week, however, I predict there will be little or no hell to pay for overflowing. So go ahead and transcend your containers, you beautiful exaggerators. Feel free to express yourself like a fire hose. Now enjoy a few gems from your fellow Sagittarius, the extravagant poet and painter William Blake. 1. “The road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom.” 2. “Exuberance is beauty.” 3. “The lust of the goat is the bounty of God.” 4. “You never know what is enough unless you know what is more than enough.”

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

Constant vigilance, my friend. That’s what I advise. Be attentive to details you sometimes gloss over. Wake up a little earlier and prepare for each encounter with greater forethought. Stare a little harder into the hearts of all those whose hidden motivations might detour your destiny. Monitor every communication for hints that all is not as it seems. Most importantly, guard against the possibility that you may be overlooking a gift or blessing that’s being offered to you in an indirect way.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

“Keep exploring what it takes to be the opposite of who you are,” suggests psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, author of the book Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention. This advice is one of his ideas about how to get into attunement with the Tao, also known as being in the zone or getting in the groove or being aligned with the great cosmic flow.

How would you go about being the opposite of who you are, Aquarius?

According to my reading of the omens, that will be an excellent question for you to muse about in the coming weeks. As you stretch yourself to embody the secret and previously unknown parts of you, I think you’ll be pleased with how much more thoroughly that allows you to be in sync with the rhythms of life.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20):

Internet addiction has risen to epidemic proportions in China. In early 2009, psychologists in Shandong province began offering an alleged cure that involved the use of electro-shock therapy. Parents of 3,000 young people paid Dr. Yang Yongxin and his team over $800 a month to hook their anesthetized teens up to machines that sent electricity through their brains to induce artificial seizures. After four months, the Chinese government intervened and halted the treatment, noting that there was no evidence it worked. This practice might sound comically barbaric to you, but I think it has a certain resemblance to the way you have been dealing with your own flaws and excesses: with inordinate force. In the coming weeks, I really think it’s important not to punish yourself for any reason, Pisces, even if it’s in a supposedly good cause. The lesson of the Chinese experiment is: not only is it overkill, it also doesn’t even have the desired effect.

Homework: Is there something about you that’s too tame? If so, do you think it’s time to untame yourself? Testify at FreeWillAstrology.com. © Copyright 2009 Rob Brezsny

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 27

Events At Folk Art Center The center is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 382 (just north of the Hwy 70 entrance in East Asheville). Open daily from 9am-6pm. Info: 298-7928 or www.craftguild.org.

• FR (7/17) through SA (8/8) - New works by fiber artist Lisa Klakulak and Allison Dennis will be on display.

Phil Mechanic Studios Located at 109 Roberts St. on the corner of Clingman Ave. in the River Arts District. Info: www.philmechanicstudios.com.

• Through TU (8/4) - went to leave, sculptures, installations, videos and photographs by Mike Calway-Fagen will be on display at Flood Gallery. In his work are apparitions of ideas of protest, urgency and hope.

• Through FR (7/31) - An exhibit by Lorraine Plaxico will be on display at Pump Gallery.

Grovewood Gallery Located at 111 Grovewood Road, Asheville. Info: 2537651 or www.grovewood.com.

• Through MO (8/10) - Dual Personalities: Multifunctional Contemporary Furniture Exhibit, featuring a variety of one-of-a-kind, multifunctional pieces by leading N.C. furniture makers.

Haen Gallery Located at 52 Biltmore Ave., downtown Asheville. Hours: Mon.Fri., 10am-6pm, Sat., 11am-6pm and Sun., Noon-5pm. Info: 2548577 or www.thehaengallery.com.

• Through MO (8/31) - Summer Samplings, a group exhibition.

Hand In Hand Gallery Located at 2720 Greenville Hwy. (U.S. 25 South) in Flat Rock.

Info: 697-7719 or www. handinhandgallery.com.

• Through SU (10/4) Summertime Memories: W.N.C. Treasures.

Hollingsworth Gallery Located at 147 E. Main St., Brevard. Info: 8773886.

• SA (8/1) through MO (8/31) - Paintings by local artist Martha

28

D’Angona will be on display.

Madison County Arts Council Exhibits Located at 90 S. Main St. in Marshall. Info: 649-1301.

• Through FR (8/7) - Cigar Boxes to Synthesizers, an exhibit of WNC instrument makers. A wide variety of acoustic and electric instruments will be on display.

Satellite Gallery Located at 55 Broadway, downtown Asheville. Info: www. thesatellitegallery.com.

• Through SU (8/23) - Work by acclaimed Miami artist Miguel Paredes will be on display.

Studio B A framing studio and art gallery at 1020 Merrimon Ave., Suite 104. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10am-5:30pm & Sat. 10am-3pm. Info: 2255200, (800) 794-9053, studiob4422@bellsouth. net or www.galleryatstudiob.com.

• Through SA (8/22) - Capturing the Equine Spirit, paintings

by Patricia Ramos Alcayaga.

Toe River Arts Council The TRAC Center Gallery is at 269 Oak Ave. in Spruce Pine. Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm.

The Burnsville TRAC Gallery is at 102 W. Main St. Hours: Mon.Sat., 10am-5pm. Spruce Pine info: 765-0520.

Burnsville info: 6827215. General info: www.toeriverarts.org.

• Through SA (8/15) - Function and Funk: the Pottery of Courtney Martin at the Burnsville TRAC Gallery.

• SA (7/25) through SU (8/9) - An exhibition of auction work will be on display at the Center Gallery. More than 100 items available to benefit the Toe River Arts Council. Guests can register for the auction to be held Aug. 9.

Transylvania Community Arts Council Located at 349 South Caldwell St. in Brevard.

Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10am4 pm. Info: 884-2787 or www.artsofbrevard.org.

• Through FR (8/21) - Artists of Scenic 276 South will be on display.

WCU Exhibits

Unless otherwise noted, exhibits are held at the Fine Art Museum, Fine & Performing Arts Center on the campus of Western Carolina University. Hours: Tues.-Fri., 10am-4pm & Sat., 1-4pm. Suggested donation: $5 family/$3 person. Info: 227-3591 or www.wcu.edu/fapac/ galleries.

• Through SA (8/1) - A photography exhibit by Julie Breckenridge, Maureen Moxley and Sarah Haynes will be on display in the media center of Hunter Library.

• SA (8/1) through FR (9/18) - New Gifts: Selections from the Collection of Professor Emeritus Perry Kelly, George Masa: A Photographic Vision of the Mountains and Dean and Nancy Cramer Lettenstrom: Delicate Balance: Painting & Drawing.

• SA (8/1), 2-4pm - Opening reception for the three new exhibits.

The Steve Wohlrab Jazz Trio will perform live music.

YMI Cultural Center Located at 39 South Market St., the community-based organization seeks to enhance the cultural and economic lives of people in WNC, particularly minority and low-income residents, through its focus on programs in Cultural Arts, Economic Development and Community Education.

Gallery hours: Tues.Fri., 10am-5pm. Info: 252-4614 or www. ymicc.org.

• Through SU (9/20) - Working Process, sculptures by Robert Winkler.

More Art Exhibits & Openings Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project Info: 236-1282 or www. asapconnections.org.

• FR (7/31), 7pm - Opening reception for Farm Fresh Photography, featuring live music by Now You See Them and free tastings of local food, wine and beer at Greenlife Grocery.

• FR (7/31) through MO (8/31) - Farm Fresh Photography, an exhibit of Naomi Johnson’s photos of WNC farms, farmers and farmers

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

markets at Greenlife Grocery.

Art at Harvest Records Located at 415B Haywood Road, Asheville. Info: 2582999.

• Through FR (7/31) - Recent paintings and illustrations by Nathan Northup will be on display.

Art at the N.C. Arboretum Works by members of the Asheville Quilt Guild and regional artists are on display daily in The Visitor Education Center. Info: 665-2492 or www.ncarboretum. org.

• Through SU (8/2) - Rustic Birdhouses by artist Walt Cottingham will be on display at the Education Center.

• Through SU (11/1) - H. Douglas Pratt and John C. Sill’s BIRDS: The Science of Illustration. The exhibit celebrates the art and science of birds.

Art in the Airport Gallery Located on the presecurity side of the Asheville Regional Airport terminal. Open to the public during the airport’s hours of operation. Info: art@flyavl. com or www.flyavl.com.

• Through TU (10/27) - More than 30 original pieces of artwork by nine local artists will be on display.

Artwork by Cyndi • TH (7/30) through WE (9/30) - Artwork by Cyndi Calhou will be on display at Salsa’s Restaurant in downtown Asheville and at Brixx Pizza in S. Asheville.

Carolina Nature Photographers Association www.cnpa-asheville.org.

• Through FR (7/31) - Nature’s Harmonies exhibit at the Cradle of Forestry. Emphasis on wildlife, landscapes, flowers.

Center For Craft, Creativity and Design The inter-institutional Regional Center of the University of North Carolina is located at the Kellogg Conference Center, 11 Broyles Rd. in Hendersonville. Info: 890-2050 or www. craftscreativitydesign. org.

• Through FR (8/14) - Are Chairs Just for Sitting, featuring the work of 24 accom-

plished furniture makers in WNC. Events at First Congregational United Church of Christ Located at 20 Oak St., Asheville.

• SA (8/1) through MO (8/31) - A photography exhibit by Connie Toops will be on display.

• SU (8/2), 4pm - Concert and gallery opening: “All Things Bright and Beautiful.”

Award-winning flutist Lea Kibler and photographer Connie Toops offer a combined concert and gallery opening. Free admission, but donations for nonprofit arts program encouraged. Info: 252-8729 or 649-3276.

Grace Centre Located at 495 Cardinal Road, Mills River. Info: 891-2006.

• SA (8/1), 7:30pm - Opening reception for an exhibit by Bryan Frederico. Info: www. federicoart.com.

Grand Bohemian Gallery Located at the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Biltmore Village, 11 Boston Way. Info: www. bohemianhotelasheville. com.

• SA (8/1) & SU (8/2), Noon-3pm - Trunk Show: Tales from Hands and Heart, by jewelry artisan Kate Stockman.

Necklaces, bracelets and more will be on display.

Hand In Hand Gallery Located at 2720 Greenville Hwy. (U.S. 25 South) in Flat Rock.

Info: 697-7719 or www. handinhandgallery.com.

• 1st SATURDAYS, 11am-3pm - Free craft demos.

Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League Classes are held at the studio, 999 W. Old Rt. 70, Black Mountain.

Info: svfal.info@gmail. com or www.svfal.org.

• SA (8/1) through SU (8/16) - Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League Members’ Exhibit.

Juried art show at Tyson Library in Black Mountain.

Wine-and-Cheese Receptions for Art Exhibits At 32 Rosscraggon Road, Asheville.

Proceeds go towards S.O.S. Mission, which works with victims of domestic violence and promotes domestic violence awareness and

prevention education.

Info: rchovey@sos.spcasheville.org.

• Last FRIDAYS, 6-8pm - Reception. Changing exhibits, mixed media art by various local artists.

• THURSDAYS, 10am1pm - Experimental Art Group. $20 per four sessions.

• FRIDAYS, 10am-1pm - Open studio for figure drawing. Small fee for model.

Classes, Meetings & Arts-Related Events

Art/Craft Fairs

Attention Artists and Photographers! (pd.) Need your work Captured, Reproduced, or Printed? Digital Resolutions Group specializes in high-quality large format digital photography, outstanding fine art reproduction and printing. (828) 670-5257 or visit www. ashevilledigital.com Lark Book Events The book publisher opens its doors to the community for workshops, book signings, demos, make-and-takes and more. Lark is located at 67 Broadway, Asheville. Events are free, unless otherwise noted. Info: 253-0467.

• SA (8/1), 1-3pm - Lark Labs presents a Clay Play Date with Shay Amber, author of Ceramics for Beginners: Hand Building. Make your own espresso cup.

Free workshop with the author. Demos at 1:15 and 2:15pm. All are welcome.

Laurel Chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America Holds monthly meetings and smaller groups dedicated to teaching different types of needlework. The chapter is also involved in numerous outreach projects.

Guests are always welcome at meetings.

Info: 654-9788 or www. egacarolinas.org.

• TH (8/6), 9:30am - Registration followed by a short business meeting and a program

by Cathie Barker, who will present a beginner program on beading entitled “New Kid on the Block.” At Cummings United Methodist Church in Horse Shoe.

Reservations required.

Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League Classes are held at the studio, 999 W. Old Rt. 70, Black Mountain.

Info: svfal.info@gmail. com or www.svfal.org.

• MONDAYS, Noon-3pm - Open studio for portrait painting. Small fee for model.

Asheville People’s Market Held June through October in the parking lot across from Rosetta’s Kitchen at 93 N. Lexington Ave. Info: rosettastarshine@gmail. com.

• SUNDAYS, 11am-4pm - Search for art, crafts and homemade items made by Asheville artists at this flea-market style market.

Greenlife Grocery Arts Market Located at 70 Merrimon Ave. Info: 254-5440.

• SATURDAYS, 11am6pm - Browse the wares of local and regional artists on the grass at Greenlife Grocery.

Lexington Avenue Bazaar An outdoor market in the Lexington Avenue Courtyard, enter at 58 1/2 North Lexington Ave. Local indie art, craft and design, food and live music. Info: www.lexingtonbazaar. blogspot.com.

• 1st & 3rd SATURDAYS, 11am6pm - Bazaar.

Summer Jewelry Market • 1st SATURDAYS, 9am-4pm - Market. On the corner of Church St. and Third Ave. in downtown Hendersonville.

Featuring local jewelry artists. Info: 698-0715.

Village Art and Craft Fair • SA (8/1), 10am-7pm & SU (8/2), Noon-6pm The 37th Annual Village Art and Craft Fair will be held on the grounds of the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. Info: 274-2831.

Spoken & Written Word Attention WNC Mystery Writers WNC Mysterians Critique Group. For serious mystery/suspense/ thriller writers. Info: 712-5570 or wncmysterians.org.

• TH (7/30), 6pm - Meeting at the West Asheville Library on Haywood Road in the meeting room.

Buncombe County Public Libraries LIBRARY ABBRVIATIONS - Each Library event is marked by the following location abbreviations: n BM = Black Mountain Library (105 N. Dougherty St., 2504756) n EA = East Asheville Library (902 Tunnel Road, 250-4738) n EC = Enka-Candler Library (1404 Sandhill Road, 250-4758) n SS = Skyland/South Buncombe Library (260 Overlook Road, 2506488) n WV = Weaverville Library (41 N. Main Street, 250-6482) • TU (8/4), 7pm - Book Club: Blue Highways

by William Least Heat Moon. WV —- Book Club: Serena by Ron Rash. EC. • WE (8/5), 12:30pm - Book Club: Animal Vegetable Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. WV —- 6-8pm - Library Knitters meeting. SS. • TH (8/6), 7pm - Book Club: Wuthering Heights

by Emily Bronte. BM —- 6:30pm - Book Club: The World Made Straight by Ron Rash.

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

• WE (7/29), 7pm Peter Selgin will discuss and sign copies of his book Life Goes to the Movies.

• TH (7/30), 7pm - Jay Wexler will discuss his book Road Trip to the Battlegrounds of the Church/State Wars.

• FR (7/31), 3pm - Young adult author and illustrator Clay Carmichael will discuss her book Wild Things.

• SA (8/1), 7pm Denise Giardina will discuss her book Emily’s Ghost: A Novel of the Bronte Sisters.

• SU (8/2), 3pm - Poetrio featuring readings by local poets Felicia Mitchell, Greg McBride and Gene Fehler.

• TH (8/6), 7pm - Mary McPhail Standaert will present her post-card history series titled Montreat.

Events at Montford Books & More

Located at 31 Montford Ave. Info: 285-8805.

• FR (7/31), 6:30pm - Award-winning local author David Pereda will read from his mystery thriller Havana: Top Secret.

Haywood County Public Library Info: 452-5169, ext.

2511 or www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• THURSDAYS, 2-3pm Teen Writing Workshop at the Waynesville branch. Free, but registration required.

Haywood County Bookmania Hosted by Osondu, 184 North Main St., Waynesville. Free and open to the public. Info: 456-8062 or www.osondubooksellers.com.

• FR (7/31), 9am-5pm - Author’s reception for the 4th annual Haywood County Bookmania event. Meet local and regional authors including Wayne Caldwell, Aaron Gwyn, Mindy Friddle, Gloria Houston and more. $15.

• SA (8/1), 9am-5pm The 4th annual Haywood County Bookmania celebration, featuring more than 50 local and regional author readings, panel discussions and a writer’s workshop.

At First Presbyterian Church on Main Street in Waynesville.

Writers’ Workshop Events WW offers a variety of classes and events for beginning and experienced writers. Info: 254-8111 or www. twwoa.org.

• Through SA (8/15) - Deadline for the “Hard Times Writing Contest.” $20 entry fee.

• Through SU (8/30) - Deadline for the “Short Fiction” contest. $20 entry fee.

Food Black Mountain Rec. & Parks Events Info: 669-2052 or www. bmrecreation.com.

• TU (8/4), 5:30-9pm “Canning and Preserving Made Easy,” with Cathy Hohenstein, from the N.C. Cooperative Extension Center. The class will focus on canning, pickling and storage. Held at the Lakeview Clubhouse, 401 S. Laurel Circle Dr. Info: 669-2052. $3.

• WE (8/5), 10am-2pm - “Hands on Canning Tomatoes Workshop,” with Cathy Hohenstein.

Learn how to prepare tomatoes for later use in soups, sauces or other dishes. Geared toward beginners. $10. Info: 669-2052.

Festivals & Gatherings Art & Music Festival Held at the Mountain Brew Cafe parking lot, 3480 Sweeten Creek Road. There will be music, food and more.

Info: 779-0077.

• SA (8/1), 10am-3pm - Festival.

Festivities at Pritchard Park Events are sponsored by The Friends of Pritchard Park, a partnership between the Downtown Asheville Residential Neighbors (DARN) and Asheville GreenWork.

Located at the intersection of Patton Ave., College St. and Haywood St. in downtown Asheville. Free and open to the public.

• WE (7/29), Noon-2pm - Violin music by Laurie Fisher.

• TH (7/30), 5-7pm - Rock-a-billy music by Jesse James & the Junk Man’s Daughter.

• SA (8/1) - Movie Night: Tarzan The Ape Man will be screened.

Films begin at dark, around 8pm.

• TUESDAYS, 5-7pm - Hula hooping for all ages.

• WE (8/5), Noon-2pm - Violin music by Laurie Fisher.

Music 27th Annual Gospel Singing Jubilee • TU (7/28) through SU (8/2) - More than 20 Southern gospel acts will be on hand for this event at the Tom Johnson Rally Park in Marion. Family-friendly.

Info & tickets: www. thegreenesgospel.com or (888) 238-6858.

African Drum and History Class Learn djembe from Adama Dembele, a 33rd generation djembe player from the Ivory Coast, West Africa. Info: (520) 243-3123.

• WEDNESDAYS, 67pm - Drum class at Koinonia Studio, 178

Westwood Place, W. Asheville.

• TUESDAYS, 6:307:30pm - Drum class at Terpsicorps dance studio, 129 Roberts St., River Arts District.

African Drumming With Billy Zanski at Skinny Beats Drum Shop, 4 Eagle St., downtown Asheville.

Drums provided. No experience necessary.

Suggested donation $10 per class. Drop-ins welcome. Info: 768-2826.

• WEDNESDAYS, 6-7pm - Beginners.

• SUNDAYS, 1-2pm Intermediates —- 2-3pm - Beginners.

Concerts on the Creek Held in the pavilion at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva. Sponsored by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.

Free. Info: (800)-9621911 or www.mountainlovers.com.

• SA (8/1), 6-9pm - Rock and funk band Chris Cates and the Master Plan.

Land of the Sky Men’s Harmony Chorus Male singers invited to weekly meetings at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 51 Wilburn Place, W. Asheville.

Info: 298-9248 or www. ashevillebarbershop. com.

• TUESDAYS, 7:30pm - Regular meeting at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. See website for details.

Mountain Dance and Folk Festival The nation’s longest running folk festival, showcasing a repertoire of mountain performers who share songs and dances that echo centuries of Scottish, English, Irish, Cherokee and African heritage.

Info: 257-4530 or www. folkheritage.org.

• TH (7/30) through SA (8/1), 7pm - 82nd annual festival, featuring the best of the region’s traditional and old-time musicians, ballad singers, mountain dance groups and cloggers will perform at Diana Wortham Theatre. $20/$10 kids 12 and under.

Music at Refuge Baptist Church Located at 1 Oleta Road, Hendersonville.

Info: 685-8544.

• SA (8/1), 7pm - Southern Gospel Music’s 2008 Soloist

of the Year Ivan Parker will perform. An event for the whole family.

Music at the Asheville City Market The market is held in the parking lot of the Public Works building on South Charlotte Street. Info: 242-6881.

• SA (8/1), 8am-1pm - New Orleans native Rickie Castrillo, guitar.

Music at the Asheville City Market South The market is held at Biltmore Square Park.

Info: 348-0340.

• WE (8/5), 7:3011:30am - Wind Motika, bamboo flute.

Music on Main Street Live music and dancing at the Visitors Information Center, 201 S. Main St. in Hendersonville. Bring a chair. No pets or alcoholic beverages allowed.

Free. Info: 693-9708, 1800-828-4244 or www. historichendersonville. org • FR (7/31), 7-9pm - Classic rock with the Night Crawlers.

Park Rhythms Concert Series Black Mountain Recreation and Parks presents this free series at Lake Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain. Food is available on site.

Bring chair/blanket.

Show will move into the Lakeview Center in the event of inclement weather. Info: 6698610.

• TH (7/30), 7-9pm - Eliza Lynn & band will perform.

• TH (8/6), 7-9pm - Akira Stake Band will perform.

Saluda Mountain Jamboree Info: 749-3676 or www. saludamountainjamboree.com.

• SA (8/1), 8pm - The Tams will perform Carolina beach music. $20.

Shindig on the Green A celebration of traditional and old-time string bands, bluegrass, ballad singers, big circle mountain dancers and cloggers. At Martin Luther King Jr. Park in downtown Asheville.

Stage show and informal jam sessions.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free. Info: 2586101 ext. 345 or www. folkheritage.org.

• SATURDAYS (7/4 through 9/5), 7pm

- Shindig. No event July 25.

St. Matthias Musical Performances These classical music concerts take place at St. Matthias Episcopal Church in Asheville, 1 Dundee St. (off South Charlotte). Info: 2520643.

• SU (8/2), 3pm Chamber music concert featuring Biltmore Brass Quintet. A free-will offering will be taken for the restoration of the historic church.

Summer Chillin’ in the Park

• SU (8/2), 2-6pm - Free concert featuring CMT “Can You Duet” finalist Ryan Larkins, plus the Seacoast Church worship band.

At Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville.

Summer Music in Flat Rock Series Presented by the Flat Rock Merchants Association. The outdoor series takes place on Little Rainbow Row’s back deck (behind the colorful shops on the corner of Greenville Hwy. and West Blue Ridge Rd.). This is a

casual, family-oriented, bring-your-own-lawnchair event. Free. Info: 697-7719 or www.flatrockonline.com.

• SA (8/1), 6-8pm Tom Fisch will perform.

The Marshall Auricular Hour A summer words and music series.

Performances are held at The FBI, 68 N. Main St., Marshall, and are followed by a reception and book signing at Lapland Bookshop & Arts, 147 N. Main St., Marshall. $5. Info: 6490099.

• TU (8/4), 7pm - Local musician Joe Penland, with poet/singer Lee Ann Brown and traveling minstrel Emily Lacy in an evening of “Ballads & Counter-Ballads.”

Unity Center Events Celebrate joyful, mindful living in a church with heart. Contemporary music by Lytingale and The Unitic Band.

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

• SA (8/1), 7:30pm Singer/songwriter David Roth will perform a con-

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 29

cert. $12 advance/$15 at the door. Info: www. davidrothmusic.com.

Theater Blue Ridge Performing Arts Center Located at 538 N. Main St. in Hendersonville.

Info: www.BRPAC.org.

• TH (7/30) through SU (8/9) - The Absolute Theatre Company presents The Betty & Beau Wedding Show, where the audience will enjoy wedding cake and live jazz performed by The Space Heaters. Thur.Sat., 7:30pm & Sun., 3:30pm. $15.

Carl Sandburg Home Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is located three miles south of Hendersonville off U.S. 25 on Little River Road. Info: 6934178 or www.nps. gov/carl.

• Through SA (8/15), 10:15-10:45am - The Carl Sandburg Home and The Vagabond School of Drama present Sandburg’s Lincoln and Rootabaga!. Held rain or shine at the Carl Sandburg Home amphitheater. Free.

Emmanuel Lutheran School’s Summer Rocks!

Production • FR (7/31), 7pm & SA (8/1), 2pm & 7pm - Dear Edwina. Three performances at the Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St. $10 adults/$5 children 3-12. Tickets: 281-

30

8182, or purchase at the door.

Events at 35below This black box theater is located underneath Asheville Community Theatre at 35 Walnut St. Info: 254-1320.

• FR (7/31) through SA (8/1), 2:30pm - The Autumn Players present The Playboy of the Western World, an Irish comedy set in a pub on the northwest coast of County Mayo in the early 1900s. $5.

Performance at UNCA on Sun. (see “Theater at UNCA” listing).

Events in Cherokee Info: 438-1601 or www. cherokee-nc.com.

• Through SA (8/29), 7:30pm - Unto These Hills, a drama that tells of the Cherokee Indians from Desoto to today.

Held in the renovated Mountainside Theatre.

Performances are held Monday through Saturday. A preshow begins at 7pm. $18/$8 children.

Flat Rock Playhouse The State Theater of North Carolina is on Hwy. 225, 3 miles south of Hendersonville. Info: 693-0731 or www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

• WE (7/22) through SU (8/16) - Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, an energetic, high-kicking musical comedy.

Entertaining for all ages. $34/$32 seniors/$24 students.

Jubilee! Players

Performances are held at Jubilee!, 46 Wall St. Info: 252-5335.

• WE (7/29) through FR (7/31), 7:30pm - The comedy Dearly Departed by local playwright Jessie Jones will be performed. A fundraiser for education/enrichment opportunities for needy students. $6 min. donation.

Montford Park Players Unless otherwise noted, performances are free and take place outdoors Fri.-Sun. at 7:30 p.m. at Hazel Robinson Amphitheater in Montford. Bring folding chair and umbrella in case of rain. Donations accepted. Info: 2545146 or www.montfordparkplayers.org.

• FR (7/31) through SU (8/23), 7:30pm Taming of the Shrew.

Performances at the BeBe Theatre Located at 20 Commerce St. in downtown Asheville.

• FR (7/31), 7:30 & 10pm - The Songs of Robert, a one-man play written and performed

by John Crutchfield.

This is the last local performance before heading to the New York International Fringe Festival. $10. Info: 674-2036.

Physical Improvisation Workshop • MONDAYS (through 8/10), 7-8:30pm - Get in touch with your imagination through

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

theatre games and physical improvisation.

Sponsored by Jericho Productions. Held at Brightwater Yoga, Hendersonville. $15 per class. Info: 713-4244 or jerichoproductions@ yahoo.com.

Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre Performances are held at Mars Hill College’s Owen Theatre. Tickets: 689-1239. Info: 6891384 or www.sartplays. org.

• WE (7/29) through SU (8/9) - World premiere of Home Again, by William Gregg and Perry Deane Young. The play tells of Thomas Wolfe’s life and career as a great American novelist. $10-$28. See Web site for details.

Theater at UNCA • SU (8/2), 2:30pm - The Autumn Players present The Playboy of the Western World, an Irish comedy set in a pub on the northwest coast of County Mayo.

Held in the Reuter Center. $5.

Comedy Events at 35below This black box theater is located underneath Asheville Community Theatre at 35 Walnut St. Info: 254-1320.

• FR (7/31) through SA (8/8), 8pm - Scottch Tomedy, a two-man performance by Scott Bunn and Tom Chalmers.

Show are held on Thurs. through Sat. $10.

The Feral Chihuahuas Asheville premiere sketch comedy troupe can be reached at 2800107 or feralcomedy@ yahoo.com. Info: www. feralchihuahuas.com.

• FR & SA (7/31 & 8/1), 8pm - Performances at the Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave. $10.

Film Asheville Art Museum Located on Pack Square in downtown Asheville.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 10am-5pm and Sun., 15pm. Admission: $6/$5 students and seniors/ Free for kids under 4.

Free first Wednesdays from 3-5pm. Info: 2533227 or www.ashevilleart.org.

• SA (8/1), 2pm, 3pm & 4:30pm - Film screening of Beverly Buchanan, a profile offering insight into Beverly Buchanan’s working process. Watch her create a drawing from beginning to end.

Along the way, learn how her life as an artist began.

Dance Classes at Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre No registration necessary; just drop in. All dancers are welcome.

The studio is located at 20 Commerce St. in

downtown Asheville.

Info: 254-2621.

• THURSDAYS, 67:30pm - Modern dance class with ACDT and White Dog ProjectX International. Taught by Diana Cabrera. $10 suggested donation.

• TUESDAYS, 6-7:30pm - Modern dance class with Jenni Cockrell. $10 suggested donation.

• TUESDAYS, 6-7:30pm - Adult Ballet.

Morris Dancing Learn English traditional Morris dances and become a member of one of three local teams as a dancer or musician. Music instruction provided to experienced musicians. Free. Info: 994-2094 or www.ashevillemorris.us.

• MONDAYS, 5:30pm Women’s Garland practice held at Reid Center for Creative Art. Southern Lights SDC A nonprofit squaredance club. Info: 6259969 or 698-4530.

• SA (8/1) - Open House Dance. 4-6pm Round dance workshop —- 6-7pm - Advanced squares —- 7pm - Early rounds —- 7:30pm - Squares and rounds.

Enjoy the ice cream social. Caller: Stan Russell. At the Whitmire Activity Center, Hendersonville.

Studio Zahiya Classes Classes are held at Studio Zahiya, 41 Carolina Lane. $12 drop-in. $40 for four

classes, with other discounts available.

Info: 242-7595 or LisaZahiya@gmail.com.

• TUESDAYS, 67pm - Beginner belly dance. Drop-in anytime —- 7:10-8:10pm - Belly dance drills and skills.

Drop-in anytime.

Summer Street Dances in Hendersonville Mountain music and dancing on the street in front of the Visitors Information Center, 201 S. Main St., downtown Hendersonville. Bring a chair, but please leave pets at home. No alcoholic beverages allowed.

Free. Info: 693-9708 or www.historichendersonville.org.

• MO (8/3), 7-9pm - Southern Crescent Bluegrass and the Rough Creek Cloggers.

Caller: Walt Puckett.

Auditions & Call to Artists Art & Music Festival Held at the Mountain Brew Cafe parking lot, 3480 Sweeten Creek Road. There will be music, food and more.

Info: 779-0077.

• SA (8/1), 10am-3pm - The festival is seeking artists and venders. Please bring your own table or canopy.

Donation are requested for each space. Info: 779-0077.

Arts Council of Henderson County

D. Samuel Neill Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 15pm and Sat., 1-4pm.

Located at 538 N. Main St., 2nd Floor, Hendersonville. Info: 693-8504 or www. acofhc.org.

• Through WE (7/29), 9am-5pm - Submissions will be accepted for Bring Us Your Best 6, a juried and judged art exhibition. See Web site for details.

Haywood Arts Regional Theater HART is in the Performing Arts Center at the Shelton House, 250 Pigeon St. (Hwy. 276 S.) in downtown Waynesville. Info: 4566322.

• SU & MO (8/2 & 3), 6:30pm - Auditions will be held for Jane Eyre: The Musical. Come prepared to sing, preferably with sheet music.

Anyone interested in being involved in the production, on stage or off, are encouraged to come by.

CALENDAR DEADLINE The deadline for free and paid listings is 5 p.m. WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

newsoftheweird Lead story

Unconventional Medicine: British construction worker Martin Jones, 42, who lost one eye and was blinded in the other in a 1997 explosion, regained his sight this year as a result of surgery in which part of his tooth was implanted in the eye. Dr. Christopher Liu of the Sussex Eye Clinic used a piece of tooth because a “living anchor” was necessary to hold a patch of Jones’ skin underneath his eyelid, to generate blood supply while a new lens formed. When the lens was healthy enough, Dr. Liu made a hole in the cornea for light to pass, and Jones feasted his eye on his wife, whom he’d married four years ago, sight unseen.

Can’t possibly be true

• Until Mayor Sharon McShurley changed the protocol this year, fire stations in Muncie, Ind., had been delivering reports to department headquarters downtown via fire engine. McShurley ordered the department to learn how to send reports by e-mail.

• In June, the New York Police Department spent $99,000 on a typewriter-repair contract, and last year, the NYPD spent almost $1 million on thousands of new typewriters, manual and electric. The department still isn’t even close to computerizing some daily-use forms, such as property and evidence reports.

• Hundreds of Los Angeles’ down-and-out live not just underneath local freeways but inside their concrete structures, according to a June Los Angeles Times report. The largest “home” is a double-gymnasium-sized cavern under Interstate 10 in the Baldwin Park suburb. After squeezing through a rusty grate, traversing a narrow ledge and descending a ladder, one reaches “a vast, vaultlike netherworld, strewn with garbage and syringes,” with toys and rattles and a cat carcass visible on an upper platform. Authorities shy away from the area out of fear, but every few years, state officials try to seal the entrance (which the homeless quickly unseal again).

• New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg was livid in June when he learned that inmate Tuvia Stern of The Tombs, the city’s notorious lockup,

had arranged a privately catered, 50-guest bar mitzvah for his son in the facility’s gym, officiated by a prominent rabbi and assisted by five jail guards. The caterers were even allowed to bring in knives for food preparation and dining.

At the time, Stern was awaiting sentencing for running two slick business scams.

Inexplicable

According to the Pentagon, there are only 566 surviving U.S. prisoners of war from the Vietnam era and 21 from the first Gulf War, but the Department of Veterans Affairs has been paying POW-labeled disability benefits to 966 and 286 people, respectively, according to an April Associated Press investigation. The AP found that even though the Pentagon POW list is posted online, the VA does not routinely check it when a veteran applies for POW status. (POW claimants go to the front of the VA disability-application line and receive various other privileges.)

Family values

(1) Thomas Stites, 25, was charged with firstdegree sexual assault of a child in Manitowoc, Wis., in June, thus becoming the fourth Stites brother to face sex charges recently. (In addition, brother Michael Stites’ wife and their son have also been charged with sexual assault.) (2) Mykal Carberry, 13, was arrested in Hyannis, Mass., in March and charged with arranging for the murder of his 16-year-old half brother, Jordan, so he could take Jordan’s place atop the family’s lucrative Cape Cod cocaine distribution ring, police said. (The boss’s job was open following the boys’ father’s recent imprisonment.)

More sci-fi movie ideas

Researchers in Japan and Spain recently concluded that Argentine ants, normally highly aggressive and territorial, are actually one huge, global colony with three expanding centers: a

Read News of the Weird daily with Chuck Shepherd at www.weirduniverse.net.

Send items to weirdnews@earthlink.net or PO Box 18737, Tampa FL 33679

3,700-mile-long stretch in Europe, a 560-mile strip in California, and a swath of Japan’s west coast. Researchers hypothesized the kinship because, when members of those groups were thrown together, they became docile.

Fetishes on parade

Former elementary-school principal John Stelmack, 62, was sentenced in July in Bartow, Fla., to five years in prison for a collection of child pornography, even though no child was directly involved. Using only scissors and paste, Stelmack had meticulously placed photos of the faces of young girls on adult women in sexual poses.

Least-competent criminals

Questionable Judgments: In June, Christopher Lister, 21, pleaded guilty to a home burglary in Leeds Crown Court in England. Last year, he and two pals tried to steal a plasma TV in broad daylight, but witnesses easily identified Lister, who’s 7 feet tall and lives only a few doors from the crime scene.

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Update

News of the Weird reported in 2003 on San Francisco artist Jonathon Keats’ project to sell “futures contracts” on his brain cells (provided science discovers how to keep them alive after he dies), with $10 buying a million of Keats’ radically imaginative neurons. In a recent project critiquing today’s hyperactive media, Keats has published a story (in the interactive, multimedia print magazine Opium) that will take almost 1,000 years to read. Although it’s only nine words long, the ink will gradually reveal itself as it’s exposed to air and light — at a rate of about one word per century.

It’s good to be a British prisoner (continued)

A British prison-research organization revealed in July that, over the last 10 years, the country’s notoriously generous inmate-furlough program has seen almost 1,000 prisoners escape, including 19 convicted murderers. The government said the rate of “nonreturn” is lower than it used to be.

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“Art With a Purpose” Sponsored by:

S.O.S. Mission

Promoting Domestic Violence Awareness

and Empowering Victims to Become Victorious.

Please Join Us Friday, July 31st from 6:00 - 8:00pm This month we will feature mixed media mosaics by various artists.

Featured artist will be Ramona Hovey, Asheville resident and domestic violence awarenes advocate. Ramona’s statement regarding mosaic art is: “Mosaics: taking the broken pieces and putting back together to create something beautiful.”

We are located at 32 Rosscraggon Rd. In the Rosscragon Business Park, Just South of the Skyland Fire Dept.

828-684-0591

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 31

edgymama

parenting from the edge

by Anne Fitten Glenn

“Mom, can you...?”

My 10-year-old girl darted up and said, “Mom, can you make me dinner?” Even though I was holding my 19-monthold niece, who’d been fussy, the girl assumed I’d immediately drop the baby to fix her dinner.

She assumed wrongly. I blinked at her, astonished. “Your dad’s making dinner right now. See him?” I pointed to the kitchen area.

“But Mom can you get me some…?”

I interrupted her. “I have a baby on my lap. Your dad is in the kitchen. As are your grandparents and your uncle. Can you please ask one of them for help?”

She pouted and headed to the kitchen, giving me that “you are such a neglectful mom” look over her shoulder.

A variation of this scene occurs in my world multiple times per day. Regardless of what my kids need or want, whether or not they can get it themselves, or whether or not they easily can ask another adult for help, they always, always, always ask me first. And nine times out of 10, the first three words out of their puerile mouths are, “Mom, can you…?”

I’ve been on my knees in the garden, locked in the bathroom, even driving the car, when one of my kids has said: “Mom, can you...?” If I answer the question with a question, such as “Why do you need me?” the typical response is, “Can

you come here for a second?” or “Can you look at this?” No specifics, just that vague compulsion for me to engage, help, see or support, all of which must have been in the “Mommy” job description that no one gave me before I agreed to procreate.

Frequently, to buy time, I’ll ask if it’s an emergency situation (defined in our house as vomit, arterial blood or flames).

“No, but I need you.”

The need is often, but not limited to, examining a mosquito bite, admiring how adorable the dog is, or mourning a broken toy.

Is it because I’m the mom or because I’m the primary caregiver? Do moms who work outside their homes get pestered as consistently when they are home? Are moms always the first go-to person, or is it just whomever seems in charge?

When school’s in session, my kids often inadvertently call me by their teachers’ names. As in, “Ms. Patti? I mean, Mom, can you…?”

Then I have nightmares about 20 elementary school students repeating my name all day, and I wake up thankful that I’m no longer teaching while trying to raise my own kids.

There are also the “Can I….” or “Can we…” questions that

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

usually involve asking permission for something that they know the answer will be “no,” but they have to ask anyway. These questions have included, “Can I have ice cream for lunch?” “Can we jump off the roof of the tree house?” and “Can I have eight friends for a sleepover tonight?” If I accidently reply in the affirmation to one of these ridiculous questions, their joy at catching me is palpable.

I suppose I should be thankful that my kids actually ask even asinine questions. For them, asking and being turned down must be preferable to getting caught and punished for doing something they know they shouldn’t.

Sometimes, they don’t even have a real question to ask me.

They’re just so used to saying, “Mom, can you...?” 400 times per day, that they’ll repeat those three words and then stop.

“Can I what?” I’ll ask.

“Never mind,” they’ll reply.

This sends me into a frenzy. “Never mind? Never mind?

What the heck were you going to ask me?”

“Nothing,” they’ll say, giving each other the “Mom’s batty” look.

Five minutes will pass before I hear again, “Mom, can you...?” X

Parenting Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009 Attention Parents (pd.) Do you have children who struggle learning to control their emotions or behavior? Children who don’t seem to pay attention in school? • We invite you to hear about a new technology that’s making it possible to train children (or adults) to be more attentive, more productive and more in control, by simply playing a video game. • This technology (called Neurofeedback) is being employed in schools, clinics, by NASA, in the Olympics and in World Cup trainings and can help your child create lasting change. Call (828) 281-2299, for more info or our schedule of upcoming public seminars, ask for Dr Ellis. Focus Centers of Asheville.

Crisis Counseling • Multicultural/ Diverse Lifestyles (pd.) • Teens • Young Adults/Adults • Eclectic/diverse therapy: Cognitive-Behavioral, Equine, Afro-centric, Parent Coordination/Mediation. • Tracy Keene, LPC, 828-318-3991, tracy@KeeneCounseling.com • 13 1/2 Eagle Street, Suite P, Asheville, 28801. www.

KeeneCounseling.com Involve Your Partner In Your Child’s Birth • Empowered Birthing Classes (pd.) Increase confidence, learn hands-on tools, enjoy your birth! 828-231-9227. Classes monthly: Wednesdays, 6p.m. $175. Next begins August 19. www.AshevilleWomensWellness.com Nursing Mom’s Night Out

32

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

• WE (7/29), 5-7pm - Night out on the patio at Asheville Brewing Company, 77 Coxe Ave. Breastfeeding moms, babies, family, friends and supporters welcome.

Parents Night Out at the YMCA of WNC Take a night off and let your kids have fun at the YMCA. Activities for ages 2-12 include swimming, arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course, snacks and movies.

Register at least 24 hours in advance. Fridays: $12/$24 nonmembers. Saturdays: $15/$30 nonmembers. Info: www.ymcawnc.org or 210-YMCA. • 1st SATURDAYS, 6-10pm & 3rd FRIDAYS, 6:309:30pm - Parents Night Out. Toddler Fun A free group that provides an opportunity for parents to have some structured fun with their toddlers including 45 minutes of songs, stories, finger-plays, parachute play and more. To register: 213-8098 or shantisunshine@gmail.com.

• TUESDAYS, 9:30am-10:15am - Toddler Fun. At the Reuter YMCA in the Mission Hospitals Room. Call 2138098 to register.

MORE PARENTING EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Parenting Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after August 6.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

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

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

consciousparty

fun fundraisers

Shannon Whitworth to perform at WildSouth benefit David Forbes Restoring trails and local ecosystems doesn’t happen by itself, and the group WildSouth has been working throughout the region for the past two years to protect wilderness and insure that local ecosystems remain intact, or repair damage done.

It’s to that end that they’re throwing a benefit on July 31 at the Grey Eagle (185 Clingman Benefits Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009 Animal Compassion Network WNC’s largest nonprofit, no-kill animal welfare organization. Find a new pet at their pet adoption events.

Info: 274-DOGS or www.animalcompassionnetwork. org. n Volunteers needed: volunteers@animalcompassionnetwork.org.

• TH (8/6), 6-8:30pm - Ice Cream Social. Pet owners are invited to bring their leashed dog for doggie ice cream treats and homemade people treats to the Hop. Proceeds will benefit Animal Compassion Network foster and adoption programs.

Benefit Concert for Mary Benson House Babies Mary Benson House provides a nurturing environment and the building blocks for women to conquer their addiction, give their babies a healthy start in life, and themselves a rebirth. Info: 281-2598 or somsc. org/mercy.

• SA (8/1), 7-10pm - Concert at On Broadway, 49 Broadway in downtown Asheville. Free parking at Home Trust Bank. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. Music by Strange Brew & John Cook. $8 in advance/$10 at the door.

Flat Rock Playhouse The State Theater of North Carolina is on Hwy. 225, 3 miles south of Hendersonville. Info: 693-0731 or www. flatrockplayhouse.org.

• MO (8/3), 5:30pm - The 22nd Annual Dark Night Revue will feature a performance by the Playhouse Acting Company, a gourmet picnic, a silent auction and raffle. Call for ticket information.

Heartsong Complementary Health Care Team Heartsong is a team of therapists and practitioners who provide free health care to people in need. Info: heartsong@gmail.com or 515-0289.

Ave.), both to raise money for their efforts and celebrate the 20th birthday of popular local radio station WNCW. Americana musician Shannon Whitworth — of Biscuit Burners fame — will take the stage.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. For more information, go to www.thegreyeagle.com or www. wildsouth.org. X

• SA (8/1), 12:30-6pm - Heartsong will host a chair massage fundraiser at EarthFare in the Westgate Plaza.

Matthew West Benefit Concert • SA (8/1), 6:30pm - Concert at Arden Presbyterian Church. Powerful lyrics and a life-changing message.

Proceeds will benefit Asheville Pregnancy Support Services. Ryan Larkins will open. $16.50 for floor seats/$14 for balcony. Purchase at itickets.com or call 252-1306.

Rockin’ RiverFest • SA (8/1), 11am - Raft race, parade, live music, vendors, local food, beer and more. Held at the French Broad River Park in Asheville. Sponsored by RiverLink and Asheville Radio Group. Free. $15 to participate in the raft race. Proceeds benefit RiverLink. Register by July 31 for raft race. Info: www.riverlink.org.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Benefit • MO (7/27) through FR (7/31) - Events to raise funds for St. Jude’s will be held at O3 Health And Fitness, 554-D Riverside Dr. Tire flip, 65 lb. bag carry, run/walk for time, plank pose for time. Info: 258-1066.

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

• SA (8/1) - Annual Rummage Sale.

Transylvania Heritage Museum Located at 40 West Jordan St., Brevard. Info: 8842347 or www.transylvaniaheritage.org.

• SA (8/1), 8am-3pm - The annual flea market and silent auction will be held at St. Timothy’s United Methodist Church, 1020 Asheville Hwy. —- 5-7pm - A spaghetti supper will be held. $7/$4 kids. Proceeds benefit the museum. Info: 884-2347.

Wild South A local nonprofit that focuses on environmental conservation. Info: www.wildsouth.org.

Keep It Local! a monthly coupon section dedicated to good deals at local businesses.

• FR (7/31), 8pm - Benefit concert with Shannon Whitworth, honoring WNCW’s 20th birthday. At the Grey Eagle. $10 in advance/$12 at the door.

MORE BENEFITS EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Benefits Calendar online at www.mountainx.com/events for info on events happening after August 6.

in print on August 5th & online all month long at mountainx.com/ keepitlocal

CALENDAR DEADLINE

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

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

call 251-1333 or advertise@mountainx.com to get your ad in the August 5th issue

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 33

greenscene

environmental news by Margaret Williams

Rooting out exotic invasive plants Move over, kudzu: Oriental bittersweet and a grab bag of other non-native, invasive plants may actually pose more of a threat to our Southern forests. Like kudzu, Oriental bittersweet can rapidly overwhelm native plants by covering and choking them. But unlike kudzu, which tends to be limited to sunny, open areas along roadways, Oriental bittersweet can pop up deep in the woods: About 3,600 acres of public lands in the Southeast, including the Pisgah National Forest, have been blanketed by the invader.

That’s because Oriental bittersweet has a very effective proliferation system, says Bob Gale, an ecologist with the nonprofit Western North Carolina Alliance: “Birds love the berries, [which] don’t provide a lot of nutrition. It’s kind of like eating junk food.”

And birds deposit those seeds in places where many native plants — including Virginia meadowsweet, a rare member of the rose family — are already threatened or endangered, Gale explains. He coordinates volunteer teams that inventory and remove exotics, most recently along the Cheoah River near Robbinsville.

“Earlier this year, we did some kudzu control on a small island on the Cheoah,” Gale reports.

By “control,” he means laboriously pulling, trimming and removing the vines by hand or by mechanical means. Another possible approach involves biological agents. An experimental kudzu-removal project on Roan Mountain uses goats, but that wouldn’t work on the Cheoah: Hungry goats don’t distinguish between Oriental bittersweet and the Virginia meadowsweet that’s been discovered there, Gale points out.

For Gale, the last resort is herbicides. About four years ago, he recalls, he worked with trained volunteers to inventory, study and remove exotics near the Appalachian Trail at

Lovers Leap in Hot Springs. Part of the work included mapping the findings with a GPS device. It was a collaborative effort involving federal and state agencies, nonprofits such as the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and an Asheville-based business, Equinox Environmental, says Gale.

On that particular trip, Gale teased a 15foot bittersweet root out of the soft forest soil near the trail, challenging his volunteer team to do better. A little bit later, they came out of the woods with an intact, 40-foot-long root.

Unfortunately, the stuff grew back. Here in the mountains, the natural enemies that limit exotics’ growth in their native habitats — diseases, climate conditions and such — aren’t present, Gale explains. “The reality is, unless you’re working in your own backyard and can go at it every day, you’re going to have to use herbicides,” he concedes.

On the Cheoah, the team used a triclopyrbased product that “breaks down quickly before it moves anywhere,” stresses Gale.

Typically, one team member cuts the bittersweet along its woody stem and another applies the herbicide to the cut, where it will be absorbed into the plant. This targeted approach helps avoid large-scale spraying that would damage other plants, and — especially when applied at the end of the season — it reduces growth the following year, he reports.

But the real key, notes Gale, is public education and collaboration — in his case, with such partners as the Tennessee Valley Authority, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alliance volunteers and many others.

Through a variety of ongoing, joint projects, volunteers learn all about the invasive species, often returning home to discover they’ve got

Eco Calendar for July 29 - August 6, 2009

County and the mountain region as an effective voice of the environment. ECO advocates for green infrastructure, protects water quality, educates about energy conservation/renewable energy, and promotes recycling. Located at 121 Third Ave. West, Hendersonville. Info: 692-0385 or www.eco-wnc.org.

• TH (8/6) - Enjoy an urban walk with Walk Wise, Drive Smart. Info: 457-6166 or www.walk-wise.org.

Events With Crabtree Meadows Events are held at the Crabtree Meadows Campground Amphitheater, located at milepost 316 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. Info: 765-1228.

• WE (7/29), 10:30am - Junior Rangers: “Fishing for Trout,” at the Linville Falls Riverbend Overlook, milepost 316. For ages 15 and under —- 2pm - “Name That Tree,” at the Visitor Center, milepost 316.

• TH (7/30), 2pm - “Animals of Linville Falls,” at the Visitor Center, milepost 316.

• Fr (7/31), 10am - “Birds of the Blue Ridge,” at the Visitor Center, milepost 316 —- 10am-Noon - “The Value of Native Plants,” at the Minerals Museum, milepost

Asheville GreenWorks Our area’s Keep America Beautiful affiliate, working to clean and green the community through environmental volunteer projects. Info: 254-1776 or info@ashevillegreenworks.org.

• TUESDAYS (through 9/22), Noon-1pm - Create a healthy body and a healthy environment at the same time with this active community cleanup. Starts at Pritchard Park. Cleanup supplies provided. RSVP. Cradle of Forestry Events Experience the natural and cultural history of the Southern Appalachians at the birthplace of scientific forestry.

Located on Route 276 in Pisgah National Forest. Info: 877-3130 or www.cradleofforestry.org.

• THURSDAYS (through 8/6), 10:30am-Noon - Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club. Nature-oriented activities for children ages 4-7. $4/program.

ECO Events The Environmental and Conservation Organization is dedicated to preserving the natural heritage of Henderson

34

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

The root of the problem: Volunteers yanked this 40-foot-long Oriental bittersweet root near the Appalachian Trail in Hot Springs several years ago. photo courtesy WNC Alliance

them in their own yards, he says.

Lindsay Majer of Equinox remembers once staying at a bed-and-breakfast and talking to the owners about her work. “The owners said, ‘We’ve got a vine in our backyard that’s really taking over.’ It was Oriental bittersweet.” A few years earlier, it turned out, the owners had bought a decorative, berry-laden wreath for the holiday season and then tossed it on the compost pile afterward. “Now it’s a big bittersweet problem, and they live next to the forest,” says Majer.

Here in Western North Carolina, a 2001 study by the Southern Research Station at Bent Creek concluded that such human sources has made Asheville “the mother lode for most of

331 —- 7pm - “Stream Gems,” at the Campground Amphitheater, milepost 340 —- 7:30pm - “Snakes of the Blue Ridge Parkway.”

• SA (8/1), 9:30am - “Snakes,” at the Minerals Museum, milepost 331 —- 2pm - “Fur and Feathers,” learn how to catch trout at the Visitors Center, milepost 316 —- 7pm - “Toys and Games of the Past,” at the Campground Amphitheater, milepost 340 —- 8:30-9:30pm - “Folklore, Rumor and Myth,” campfire stories with a ranger.

• SU (8/2), 10am-Noon - “Toys and Games of the Past,” at the Visitor Center, milepost 316 —- “The Value of Native Plants,” at the Minerals Museum, milepost 331 —2-4pm - “Fur and Feathers to Catch Trout,” at the Visitor Center, milepost 316.

WNC Alliance Members of the WNC Alliance and the public are invited to be agents of change for the environment. Info: 2588737 or www.wnca.org.

• 1st MONDAYS, 5pm - Meeting for Ashe, Avery and Watauga members and the public. Be agents of change for the Watauga River Watershed. Info: 963-8682.

these invasives,” adds Gale. “They come in from here and spread out,” he says.

Wind, water, birds, a hiker’s boots, the blades of a highway mower — all can help spread invasive plants. The U.S. Forest Service’s most recent Nonnative Invasive Plant Species inventory lists 33 species, from the popcorn tree to garlic mustard and English ivy. More than 18 million acres of Southern forests are affected, according to a 2008 Southern Research Station report.

Says Gale, “There’s no end of places to work.”

X Send your environmental news to mvwilliams@ mountainx.com or call 251-1333, ext. 152.

• 1st THURSDAYS, 6:30 pm - Meeting for Buncombe County members and the public at the WNC Alliance office, 29 N. Market St., Ste. 610, Asheville. Info: 2588737.

WNC Nature Center Located at 75 Gashes Creek Rd. Hours: 10am-5pm daily (closed on Wednesdays from Dec. 17-Feb. 25).

Admission: $8/$6 Asheville City residents/$4 kids. Info: 298-5600 or www.wildwnc.org.

• Through MO (9/7) - The Beauty of Butterflies exhibit features native species of butterflies and moths and the plants they need for survival.

MORE ECO EVENTS ONLINE

Check out the Eco Calendar online at www.mountainx. com/events for info on events happening after August 6.

CALENDAR DEADLINE

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

WEDNESDAY, one week prior to publication.

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 35

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Sandlin Gaither wanted to point his camera at loud, foul-mouthed, rowdy, besotted subjects, which is pretty much how he ended up shooting chefs.

“God, they almost look like pirates,” local photog Gaither says of the back-of-the-house workers who’ve become an ongoing project for him. “They have tattoos, they’re wearing bandannas, they’re cursing and they’re dirty. Some of the guys are ugly as can be.”

That doesn’t pose a problem for Gaither, who’s bent on capturing the “soul of chefs,” ranging from Memphis pit-masters to Manhattan molecular gastronomists. He’s hoping to publish a book of his ever-growing portfolio, tentatively titled In the Kitchen.

“I would like to think this book would give exposure to authentic chefs,” says Gaither, who’s planning portrait sessions of celebrity chefs from both coasts and Asheville culinarians such as Savoy’s Annie Petri and The Lobster Trap’s Tres Hundertmark. “If someone’s coming from Ohio, and they want to eat real country cooking, they’ll be inspired to go to one of those places, instead of going to the Moose Café and having an imitation of it.”

Chefs weren’t the first dirty, rotten artists that caused Gaither to pick up a camera. A longtime bartender at Grey Eagle Music Hall, Gaither started edging toward the medium when he realized the bands that played the venue were terrifically photogenic. Gaither bought a pointand-shoot camera that he kept behind the bar.

“In the middle of bartending, there’d be 200

people at the bar and I’d tell them to hold on,” Gaither says, recalling how he nabbed some of his first shots.

While Gaither’s antic style befits the bar vibe, he soon discovered the best photo opportunities didn’t happen on his shift. They occurred long before the band took the stage, or sometime after, when the musicians collapsed into their pints or stole a few drags of a cigarette out back.

Gaither’s epiphany came while “watching musicians eat a plate of rice and beans.” The Grey Eagle hung Gaither’s contemplative portraits on their wall, piquing the interest of visiting bands.

“They’d come to me and ask if I’d take their picture,” Gaither recalls.

Gaither complied, and found himself making a living a photographer, stumbling upon a career that remains a fantasy for most hobbyists. “I didn’t want to pour beer all my life,” he laughs. Armed with a Nikon D700, Gaither started contacting upward of 50 management companies a month, landing enough contracts to stay solvent and compile a book.

But, true to the rock cliché, Gaither wasn’t just seeking money and fame. He’d figured his camera would serve as a calling card to life’s great characters, the men and women who glibly trashed their hotel rooms, flouted all conventional fashion wisdom and hearkened to typically unheard muses. And it turned out that rock stars just weren’t that way anymore.

“Chefs,” Gaither says with well-earned authority. “Chefs are the new rock stars. They sleep until noon, they curse, they sweat it out,

didn’t feel like he wanted to have his picture done that day,� grumbles Gaither, who was left with an unshakeable sense of irritation and a gnawing postmolecular feast hunger he sated 30 minutes later with a meatball sandwich.

Since stars make a point of not sweating, crying or doing anything else that paparazzi might get paid for documenting, Gaither opted to work with less-famed cooks, seeking out the wizards of traditional, oftneglected kitchens, like Martha Lou’s in Charleston, where he’d gone to school. He made a pilgrimage to Memphis to photograph Jim Neely, the pit maven at Interstate Barbecue.

And he shot the street vendors he patronized in Southeast Asia, who chopped durian and served up skewered meat that tasted like chicken. “In my opinion, they’re all doing something authentic,�

Gaither says of the commonalities among his subjects.

Still, Gaither admits that edible authenticity can be hard to discern in photographs.

Health codes requiring head Pit maven Jim Neely, owner, Interstate Barbeque, Memphis, coverings and plastic gloves have Tenn. made all cooks look very much the same. That’s why he tends to focus do their drugs — or whatever they do — and get on revealing details. drunk ‘til three in the morning. “I want a close-up of their hands,� he says. “I “What better place to go after rock stars?� want to show their scars.�

A self-described amateur foodie, Gaither first Gaither is eager to find worthy chefs to turned to Food Network, a warehouse of kitchphotograph here in Asheville, but worries that en slaves done good. He assumed ponytailed authenticity may be a scarce commodity. heroes like Mario Batali would look stirring “Asheville is sort of a strange thing in that I rendered in pixels. don’t think people in Asheville are as hungry “But the more I got in touch with them, the for authentic food as they should be,� he says. more I realized they’re not even in the kitchen “There are a lot of people walking around town anymore,� Gaither says. that look like they have serious appetites, and it Even worse, the top chefs Gaither lined up upsets me that they’re eating at Cheddar’s and behaved badly — and not in a did-too-muchChili’s.� X coke and cooked-too-much-bacon way. Gaither dumped $250 on a tasting menu at one establishment before learning the chef had changed Xpress food editor Hanna Rachel Raskin can be his mind about the scheduled session. “He reached at food@mountainx.com.

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FRENCH BROAD FOOD CO-OP: The French Broad Food Co-op (pictured) is testing locavores’ cred with a national co-op program designed to stimulate interest in local food.

“Eat Local, America!” is challenging eaters to create five meals a week from local products.

Practiced locavores are being asked to localize four out of every five meals, or a full 80 percent of their diet. While there’s no prize for completing the self-monitored contest, which runs through mid-August, co-op spokeswoman Kelly Fain reminds shoppers that local eating is “good for the economy, respectful of the environment and simply tastes better.”

The French Broad Food Co-op is supporting goal setters by clearly labeling locally sourced food and providing recipes. To sign up, visit the Co-op, 90 Biltmore Ave., or register online at www.eatlocalamerica.coop.

THE BLACKBIRD: A Southern-slanting gastropub is readying to open next month in the space previously occupied by the Highland Grill and Oyster Bar in Black Mountain.

“Our focus is very much on food,” explains owner Roz Taubman, a pastry chef who most recently worked as a restaurant consultant in Napa Valley and moved to Western North Carolina to be closer to her children.

“We came to this region and we just realized Black Mountain could use a restaurant that had good wine, good beer and really, really good food,” Taubman says. “We’re bringing something fun and interesting.”

Executive chef Bobby Buggia has crafted a regional menu with such Carolina-indebted dishes as sorghum-roasted piedmont chicken with charred corn succotash. Dessert will include fresh berry pies and cobblers.

“We feel it could be a destination,” Taubman says of the restaurant, which she describes as a

“new American tavern.”

The Blackbird, 10 E. Market St., is slated to open for lunch and dinner everyday but Monday, with brunch served on Sunday. For more information, call 669-5556.

STIR FRY CAFÉ: South Asheville’s Stir Fry Café shut down earlier this month, becoming the second original restaurant tenant to vacate the Meridian Place shopping complex since its opening last year. Like O’Naturals, which preceded it in closure, Stir Fry Café was the first North Carolina outlet of a small franchise.

According to its corporate Web site, Stir Fry’s four Tennessee locations remain open.

SLOW FOOD ASHEVILLE: While Asheville’s first-ever food-and-wine festival is still a year away, Asheville’s Slow Food convivium, RiverLink, the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project and WNC Magazine have partnered to host a party next week supporting the planning. The event, billed as “An Evening by the River,” will take place at the Asheville Outdoor Center along the French Broad River and include North Carolina wine tastings, local-food exhibits, music and a seminar on “How to Be Cool While Selecting Wines.” Tickets to the Saturday, Aug. 8, gettogether are $10 and can be purchased at www.slowfoodasheville.org.

A-B TECH CULINARY TEAM: Members of the A-B Tech Culinary Team beat out a Pittsburgh contingent at the American Culinary Federation’s national student team championships in Orlando earlier this month, but were bested by teams from Honolulu and Livonia, Mich. The A-B Tech’ers earned a silver medal for their four-course signature meal, finishing just 1.35 points off first place.

Send your food news to food@mountainx.com

38

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Feeding the frenzy: Asheville Ski Club volunteers dish out local brews at the Bele Chere local beer tent.

Photo by Jonathan Welch

David Forbes It’s Saturday afternoon at Bele Chere and standing motionless in front of the Vance Monument, sun pouring down on his head, a street preacher holds a sign that starkly declares “Fornicators & Drunkards shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.” But just 30 feet away, the local beer tent is booming, with long lines even at this relatively early time. Drinking on the street at Bele Chere requires a $2 wristband, purchased at any one of a number of stalls around the festival.

All the local heavy hitters are here — Green Man, Pisgah, French Broad, Highland, Catawba Valley and Asheville Brewing all brought their wares — 22 local beers in all — and volunteers busily pour them, filling them to the brim. It’s $5 a pop, though Highland also has stands selling their Gaelic Ale, Oatmeal Porter and St. Therese’s Pale Ale for $4. Barefoot wine is also available for $5 at some stands.

The local beer area has expanded over the years, as the number of local breweries has likewise grown.

Yes, Budweiser is also sold for $4 (in cans).

But this is Beer City USA, and the local brews seem to be getting a large amount of the attention. The occasional customer grumbles

about having to produce their ID before being served (“But I already showed it when I got the wristband!”).

Revelation: a French Broad 13 Rebels ESB goes quite well with a plate full of spicy Indian food, though that may just be a personal preference.

Surrounding bars also did brisk business, and visitors to any number earlier in the week could see massive plats of beer being stocked, readying for the rush.

Of course, not everyone can always handle their alcohol, and by dinner time, one could already see some festivalgoers staggering around the street. One man, obviously not a fan of drumming, stopped under the balcony of a downtown apartment, where several musicians were playing, to shout up “I’m going to come up there and twist your f***ing throats!”

They kept playing. As the night died down, one could hear that type of loud bellowing that only comes after the blood alcohol content reaches a certain level, or see someone who’d had too much ducking into an alleyway to lose their lunch (or dinner).

All in all, however, festivalgoers seemed to enjoy themselves without causing too many problems, and a good time was had by most.

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arts&entertainment Spanglish for beginners

Latin-funk act Grupo Fantasma comes to the Grey Eagle

by Alli Marshall According to bassist (and Grupo Fantasma founding member) Greg Gonzalez, “We have so many influences, when you come to see us it’s a gumbo of sound.” An apt metaphor for this pepper pot of a Latin jazz-funk fusion outfit currently boasting 10 members.

Gonzales adds that the group’s collective experience —and most of a decade together — is “the spice.”

Actually, it’s more than years logged that accounts for Austin, Texas-based Grupo Fantasma’s picante flair. Songs like the slinky, horn-driven “Gimme Some” toe the line between The Funky Meters and Santana; “Arroz Con Frijoles” shimmies, grinds and sizzles with Spanish verse (anyone who’s ever ordered a Mexican lunch will pick up at least a handful of the gastronomic mentions) and percussion perfect for tearing up the dance floor. Not that mono-lingual listeners and non-dancers should stay out of Grupo Fantasma’s kitchen: “Our approach is to get people to interact,” Gonzalez says. “You don’t have to take a Salsa lesson, you can just spaz out if you want to.”

In that vein, the band embraces its Latin heritage, but has no interest in solving tumultuous U.S./Mexico border disputes. On the band’s well-maintained Web site, drummer Johnny Lopez III (a native of Laredo, Texas) reveals that life on the border “has definitely molded me as a person and a musician.”

He adds, “The richness of food, art and music tends to be very concentrated along the border as the result of two nations’ integrated cultures ... I consider myself lucky to have absorbed it all in and then communicate

who:

Grupo Fantasma (Sol Driven Train opens)

what:

Latin jazz and funk

where:

The Grey Eagle

when:

Thursday, July 30 (9 p.m. $10 advance, $15 day of show. www.thegreyeagle. com) some of that experience through our music.”

But there’s no politicizing. “Our cultural identity as Latinos in this country is not very simple,” Gonzalez admits. “We have Latino heritage, but that’s not what defines us. The intention is to break down barriers in people’s [minds] that don’t really exist.”

Grupo Fantasma made a major move in that direction last fall when they signed up with a USO-type booking company for a 10-day tour of military bases in Iraq. It was a package with comedian Joey Medina in celebration of Hispanic Heritage month. “There are a lot of Latinos in the military and the leaders are becoming sensitive to their needs,” says Gonzalez. “Traditionally, the groups that go over there are rock ‘n roll or country. It’s good that they’re diversifying.” The response to Grupo Fantasma’s performances was so positive, the band headed back to Iraq for Cinco de Mayo this past May. Though the collective is pretty specific in its Latin-flavored sound (don’t plumb their songs for world-music inspirations), globe-

Anything goes: Ten-member Grupo Fantasma advises, “You don’t have to take a salsa lesson, you can just spaz out.” photo by crawford morgan

trotting beyond Iraq is often on the tour roster. Gonzalez says that how fans show their appreciation varies by country: “In some places they don’t dance, but they clap and buy everything. In others, they’ll dance all night long and then leave at the end of the show without buying a thing or saying a word to you.”

Grupo Fantasma has plenty of fans in the U.S. as well — some of them big name stars in

Percussion perfect for tearing up the dance floor: The Latino jazz-funk outfit shimmies, grinds and sizzles. photo by daniel perlaky

42

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

their own right. Like Prince, who signed the band to a 10-week residency at his Las Vegas Club. “Through that we got other opportunities,” Gonzales recalls. The band performed for and with Prince at his Golden Globes after-party and London shows.

Recently, Grupo Fantasma’s horn section backed up indie-rockers Spoon, and other Austin-based acts have also tapped Grupo Fantasma players. But Gonzalez, who calls his outfit a “busybody kind of band,” doesn’t see the side projects as a detraction from the band’s own progress. Its most recent album (last year’s Sonidos Gold) was nominated for a Grammy which was celebrated, apparently, by recording another album (soon to be released) under alter-ego Latin-funk moniker Brownout.

“There are lots of us in the band and a super abundance of talent,” Gonzalez says.

“It’s great when we have these other outlets to express ourselves.”

At the end of the day, Grupo Fantasma comes first, however. Touring (and they do a lot of that) means 10 musicians, a road manager and a sound engineer packed into two vans. Expect a maximized stage at any show: “When you see our band you see the whole thing,” Gonzalez says. “What you hear on the album is pretty much what you hear live.” X Alli Marshall can be reached at amarshall@ mountainx.com.

arts

X

music

Brave new world music

Armenian vocalist Mariam Matossian performs with Free Planet Radio

by Alli Marshall When vocalist and composer Mariam Matossian made the move from her hometown of Vancouver, British Columbia to Greenville, S.C., she didn’t figure on meeting any fellow Armenian musicians. In fact, for her first year in Greenville, when Matossian performed it was mostly at venues thousands of miles away with her Canadian backing band.

“Just last summer, someone suggested I get in touch with River Guerguerian through MySpace,” she tells Xpress. Surprised to learn that a Middle-Eastern influenced percussionist was living just an hour away in the mountains, Matossian checked out Guerguerian’s tracks

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who:

Mariam Matossian with Free Planet Radio

$10 Off

what:

First Visits

Armenian/world music

*New patients only

where:

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White Horse Black Mountain

when:

Check us out online at: www.pphsinc.org 603 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC • 828-252-7928

Saturday, Aug. 1 (8 p.m., $10. www. whitehorseblackmountain.com or 669-0816)

-- and was blown away. “I was like, ‘No way,’” she remembers.

At the same time, Gene Berger of Horizon Records in Greenville passed a disc on to Matossian’s husband (and promoter), Haro Setian. It was Free Planet Radio’s album, with Guerguerian on drums. Two recommendations seemed like more of a sign than a coincidence, so Matossian contacted Guerguerian to see if he could suggest a local band to back her East coast performances. The percussionist suggested Free Planet Radio. Matossian describes her first meeting with the world-jazz trio (including multi-instrumentalist Chris Rosser and bassist Eliot Wadopian) as “probably one of the most amazing rehearsals I’ve ever had.”

But finding a band who could relate to and riff off of Matossian’s exotic sound was only half of the challenge. The other side of the coin was finding an audience in her new home. Three years ago, the singer relocated after marrying Setian, a Greenville-based realtor. The two met when Setian purchased one of Matossian’s CDs on Web retailer CD Baby, which tracks the email addresses of its customers. “Because I was raised to be a polite Canadian, I wrote people thank-yous,” Matossian explains. That sparked an e-mail exchange and subsequent courtship.

The two share not just a love of music but their Armenian heritage and a desire to do good for their ancestral homeland (neither were born there, but both have traveled to Armenia and

Galaya

Readings ~ Coaching Exotic sound: Vocalist Mariam Matossian blends Armenian stories and songs with world music savvy. volunteered in its orphanages).

A former republic of the Soviet Union, Armenia is sandwiched between the oft-tumultuous territories of Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan and Georgia. It’s an area rich in history (it’s patriarch the great-great-grandson of Noah of arc fame) but rarely registers on the American radar the way other ethnic music hotbeds (Africa, India, Brazil) do. So, when Matossian booked her first Greenville gig this past February, she billed it as “A Night of World Music” because “I didn’t want to be too specific and scare people away.”

Far from alienating her audience, she sold out the Warehouse Theatre and drew crowds from across the region. Setian reports that his wife’s upcoming White Horse performance (with Free Planet Radio) has attracted fans from as far as Nashville. From the White Horse Web site: “Last time these folks were at White Horse we were sold out and the audience was transported to ecstasy.” Last time was actually a Free Planet Radio concert with Matossian sitting in for three songs. This time it’s Matossian’s show.

So what does Armenian music sound like?

Filtered through Matossian’s world-view, it’s delicate yet rhythmic, mystical yet earthy,

melodic yet invitingly groovy. “It’s totally a fusion,” the vocalist says of her style. Raised in Vancouver (which, she points out, has a smaller Armenian population than Toronto, New York or Boston), she was classically trained on piano; her vocal coaching in opera.

“I grew up listening to Latin, jazz and Middle Eastern music,” she notes. “I’m not a purist; that’s not how I grew up.” The end result, instead of an Armenian cultural program, is more of a jaunt through world cultures with an emphasis on the songs Matossian has collected from her mother and from the Armenian orphans she met. At a radio performance, a Chinese musician told Matossian how much her music sounded like traditional Chinese tunes; Setian points out that Irish listeners recognize a commonality to Celtic songs.

Matossian is passionate about her culture, and about introducing it to others. “I don’t just sing on stage,” she says. “I tell stories. I tell my grandmother’s stories. I’m singing in a foreign language, so I like to talk about the songs.” X Alli Marshall can be reached at amarshall@ mountainx.com.

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mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 43

artillery and Champagne Bar two floors of used & new books …and one floor of wines, beers & champagnes dog-friendly patio Downtown, across from north entrance of the Grove Arcade 1 Battle Square, Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 252-0020 exchanging books and wine daily

Tiki Concoctions & Island Cuisine, Made from Scratch

Detachment, despondency and dystopia in three local art shows

by Ursula Gullow Flood Gallery is one of the only galleries in Asheville exhibiting work by out-of-town contemporary conceptual artists. Given its out-of-the-way location, the shows are all too often under attended, but the gallery is at least attempting to introduce new aesthetics and ideas to the artistic discourse of Asheville.

That being said, the seven art pieces that comprise Tennessee artist Mike CalwayFagen’s solo exhibit Went to Leave (on display through Aug. 4), emerge as disparate and vague at first glance. For example, an overturned table embellished with a geometric neon duct tape design appears to hold no connection with a drawing of two birds fighting.

Then there’s the sculpture of a glass-eyed camel that stands unassumingly baring a propane tank out of its back. Brown packing tape covers the animal and patches of neon peek through the beige skin. The large sculpture “Skink” appears to be a tail cut cleanly off a lizard’s body. Calway-Fagen has taken a real skink and placed it on the sculpture — its teeny body is easily overlooked in relation to the sculpture. (After days of sitting on the gallery floor it has started to decay and is no longer recognizable.)

According to his artist statement, CalwayFagen seeks to embody the activist spirit of the ‘60s that he feels has been marginalized and trivialized. The photograph, “went to leave,” is an aerial view of a highway with the sentence I was here but now I’m gone scrawled in chalk by the side of the road. Evoking a sense of absenteeism and disassociation, this piece is

“Skink,” by Mike Calway-Fagen, was at one point topped with an actual lizard body, until it decomposed.

Photos by Jonathan Welch

one of the stronger works in the show. Another persuasive photograph, “Norm” depicts a fairly non-descript bearded Caucasian male upon whose face Calway-Fagen has carefully drawn a mask of tribal ornamentation in ink.

An underlying commentary on sensationalism and cultural appropriation seems to be the thread that connects all the work. In the video, “White Gold,” a young mustached man

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87 Patton Ave. 828-255-TIKI 44

“Desertership” is another of Calway-Fagen’s works, on display at Flood Gallery in the River Arts’ District’s Phil Mechanic Building.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

in a white T-shirt proceeds to huff a can of gold spray paint and then, in a stupor, spray it all over his face. The effect is rather disarming, considering what the man put himself through, and succeeds as a spectacle of bravado, machismo and masochism.

Recently the work of local artist Adam Smithmada has begun appearing in venues like Downtown Books and News and Atelier — both located on Lexington Avenue in downtown Asheville. Smithmada paints despondent faces with big noses and oversized eyes for an effect that is rather humorous and engaging.

The faces are primarily men’s, and seem to be very personalized even though they bear little resemblance to the artist’s own face.

The expressive brush strokes are rendered confidently and clever nuances of color make the work more sophisticated than it initially appears. Smithmada says he plans to head out of town by October, so check out his work while it’s still here.

Also worth seeing are the scrupulously rendered paintings of Asheville artist Brian Mashburn currently on view at Satellite Gallery on Broadway. Silhouettes of old water towers, power lines and trees are placed behind lonesome rats, pigeons and dogs. In spite of the dystopic subject matter, there’s something very uplifting about Mashburn’s work — perhaps it is the way he renders light that literally suggests the dawning of a new day, and metaphorically delivers something more reflective. X

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 45

junker’sblues

the life and times of a digger

The parable of the box and the plumber, or what would you do in Rabuck’s place?

by Whitney Shroyer When you’re a junker, it’s hard to avoid magical thinking. Success is so dependent on serendipity you start to believe it’s not just random. It was, for instance, easy to feel things were “meant to be” when I found, via that magical portal of Facebook, that my friend Rabuck was heading to the Biltmore Square Mall just as I was heading there myself. We decided to carpool.

Rabuck is, among other things, a junker of no small ability, a yard sale scourge with a bounteous basement. He was on his way to buy advance tickets for a movie that evening.

I was going to Hospice Treasures. These are, as far as I know, the only two reasons to ever go to the Biltmore Square Mall.

The sunny ride on the uncommonly temperate July afternoon generated its own buzz.

I got in this game to goof off at thrift stores with my buddies when other people were being productive. Now my productivity is based around what I get at thrift stores.

Clearly I was meant to renew the social aspect of what is, professionally, a solitary pursuit.

Rabuck dropped me off and went to get his tickets. I walked into Hospice Treasures and made a beeline for two plastic tubs full of vinyl LPs. They looked fuller than the last time I’d been in, and were moved up front.

Ah-ha — I knew I was supposed to come here today.

As I started to dig, my phone rang.

Normally, I don’t stop the hunt for phone calls, but I was expecting a visit from the plumber that afternoon. Was, potentially, blowing it off (or at least cutting it close) by hitting a thrift. So I answered it.

It was the plumber, hoping I could I outline a bit more of my situation. I told him my water troubles, digging through the LPs, which weren’t as good as I’d hoped. And he

46

illustration by NATHanael RonEy

began to explain my options.

He explained. And explained. We had a bad connection, so I stopped digging to listen, figuring it’d be over soon. But it wasn’t over soon. He talked so long that Rabuck had time to buy his tickets and come back to the thrift store.

And the next thing I know, Rabuck is digging through a box of 45s I’d overlooked on my way the LPs! Now, albums may be my bread and butter, but 45s are my meat. I also DJ, and for my style, the 45 record is the most perfect song delivery method ever devised. To miss a box of 45s because I was talking to my plumber is

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

totally bush league. I begged off the plumber, telling him I was about to get in a car wreck.

The 45s were all from the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, made by also-ran companies with artists few people have heard of, exactly the kind of thing I like to see in a box of 45s. And since it all looked good, Rabuck, who, as I’ve said, is no piker, was picking most of it out.

“Did you look through these?” he said, clearly confused that there was so much good stuff left in the box.

I explained about the plumber.

“Oh man, that’s too bad. I only started to look through these because I’d figured you’d gone through them already.”

I looked through his stack. There was record by a cat named Larry Kingston called “I’m a Flop.” I knew how Larry felt.

“That’s the problem with two people coming to the same place,” Rabuck said. “I know.

I’ve been there.”

It’s true. Everything’s fine as long as there’s no goods, but come time to dig it’s hard not to feel like the best stuff is in the other guy’s box. You’re glad your pal has scored, but if you haven’t ... it’s tough.

I tried the best I could, describing the labels I knew something about, cheering a good pull. And I hope I sounded genuine, because I was. Mostly.

When he was about 2/3 of the way through the box, Rabuck stepped back, and said, “Go ahead, I feel bad you haven’t been through these, you need to get first shot at some of them.”

Now, I had been the one who suggested we come to Hospice Treasures. But, ethically speaking, the box was all Rabuck’s. I had missed it — no excuses. That is clearly the law of the junker land.

Be there any man more blessed than he who offers to share his box under such conditions?

Me, I didn’t argue. I dived in. And a few of the sweetest cherries were in the back. We ended up buying the whole thing for $15 and splitting the box. All in all, a fun and fortunate venture.

But clearly, what was meant to happen was for me to ponder, and then present to you, the question — “If you were in Rabuck’s place, would you have given your friend first shot at the back of the box, would you have gone all the way to the back before you stepped aside, or would you have bought the whole batch for $15 and kept it for yourself?”

X

Vote Online for Best of WNC 2009 Mountain Xpress’ 15th Annual Reader’s Poll Decide who’s going to be crowned with the Xpress purple wig this year by choosing your local favorites: Who serves the best Thai food? What’s your favorite punk band? Where do you go to get your caffeine fix, entertain your kids or kayak?

Best of WNC 2009

Categories: Eats

Barbecue Bakery Breakfast/brunch Burger Burrito Caterer Cheap lunch Chinese Diner/home-style Favorite restaurant Fine dining Greek Ice cream Italian Indian Japanese Late-night munchies Latin American/Mexican Pizza Outdoor dining Restaurant still needed in Asheville Seafood Server Sub shop/sandwiches Sweets/chocolate Thai Vegetarian

Drinks Favorite bar Gay bar Upscale bar Hipster bar

Dive bar Sports bar Bartender Barista Beer selection Cocktails Coffee shop Locally brewed beer Local brewery Wine selection

Arts & Entertainment

Local art gallery Local visual artist Local band: blues/jazz/soul Local band: country/alt-country Local band: folk Local band: old-time/bluegrass Local band: hip-hop Local band: rock Local band: indie Local band: experimental Local band: metal Local band: punk Local band nobody’s heard of yet Local busker/street performer Local singer/songwriter Local DJ (non-radio) Local recording studio Local dance company Local poet/author Local graffiti artist Local stage company Local filmmaker Local video store

There’s a whole slew of new categories — including all-new regional categories. Take a few moments to cast your votes for everyone and every place that makes life in Western North Carolina the best.

Note: Due to the unprecendented number of categories this year, we will only be able to feature categories that receive a minimum number of votes in our Best of WNC issue. So make sure to vote for those people and places you love!

There’s only one way to participate in this year’s poll: Visit www.mountainX.com/bestof/vote. Fill out the online ballot — making sure to follow the simple rules — before Wednesday, Aug. 19, when voting officially ends.

Local drag performer Local trivia night Local karaoke night Movie theater Place to hear live music Place to dance Live show of 2009: dance Live show of 2009: music Live show of 2009: theater

Media

Local arts writer Local radio personality Local radio station Local print reporter Local blog Local Twitterer Local Web site Most over-reported story Most under-reported story Free newspaper other than Xpress Favorite feature in Xpress: why?

Least-favorite feature in Xpress: why?

Feature Xpress needs to add

Outdoors

Bike ride: mountain Bike ride: road Event: cycling Event: running Place to car camp Place to backcountry camp Place to hike Place to paddle/kayak Place to picnic Place to walk/run

Personal Services Alternative healing center Car repair Computer repair Place to work out Hair salon

Massage therapist Spa Stylist Tattoo artist Tattoo/piercing studio Yoga studio

Hunting & Gathering

Antiques store Arts supply store Bike shop Bookstore Clothing: men’s Clothing: women’s Clothing: consignment or vintage Environmentally-friendly store Local farm Garden supply/nursery Gift shop Grocery Head shop Jewelry store Local fashion designer Record shop Musical instrument shop Outdoor-gear shop Shoe store Tailgate/farmers market Arts/craft fair Beer store Wine store

Kids

Clothing: kids’ Day care Kid-friendly restaurant Place to entertain kids Place to learn outside of school Entertainer Toy store

Voting ends Aug. 19!

www.mountainX.com/bestof/vote Rules:

1. Cast your vote at www.mountainX.com/bestof/vote. No paper ballots, please. Only online entries will be accepted.

2. Only one survey per person. This helps us guarantee that your opinion counts as much as everyone else’s.

3. You MUST vote on at least 30 items in order for your ballot to be tallied.

4. Name and e-mail address are required.

(We will not sell or share this information.)

5. Ballots must be submitted online before Aug. 19. To vote,

you must provide a valid e-mail address. After you submit your ballot, you’ll receive an automated e-mail confirmation request. Make sure to click on the link in the e-mail to confirm your vote and have it counted!

Pets

Marshall/Hot Springs

Uniquely Asheville

Waynesville/Canton

Animal shelter/rescue center Pet kennel Pet-supply store Veterinarian

B&B/boutique hotel Asheville’s best-kept secret Local eyesore Local politician Local villain Local music festival Local nonmusic festival Bumper sticker Unsung hero Reason to live in Asheville Reason to leave Asheville Local do-gooder group Neighborhood Place to get your car towed Thing you’d like to see local government do Thing downtown Asheville needs

ALL-NEW Regional Categories Swannanoa/ Black Mountain Music venue Restaurant Place to get a great mountain view Local institution Art gallery

Woodfin/Weaverville

Restaurant Cheap lunch Neighborhood gathering spot Local shop Local artist

Restaurant Music venue Festival Swimmin’ hole Place to camp

Restaurant Music venue Swimmin’ hole Local musician/group Art gallery

Sylva/Cullowhee

County or city park Restaurant Place to get beer Saturday-night hangout Craft/gift store

Brevard

Restaurant Music venue Local musician/group Outdoor spot Art gallery

Hendersonville/Flat Rock Restaurant Music venue Festival Art gallery Little-known attraction

Burnsville/Celo/Spruce Pine Local artisan Picnic spot Restaurant Art gallery Fishin’ hole

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 47

Ashev i l l e’s

1 ST D o - it -Your s elf

Dogwash

No appointment Also visit the Soapy necessary Dog General Store All supplies All dogs must Provided be current on vaccinations to Hours: use our services Tues. - Fri. 12-8 Sat. - 12-6:30 Plenty of Sun. 12-5 FREE parking Climate-controlled 828-350-0333 facility Leave Your Mess For us!

270 Depot st. Asheville (Off of Clingman Ave. - turn at the Grey Eagle) LLC

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by William Gregg and Perry Deane Young produced by Dan & Beverly Lunsford and the Youngs of Shoal Creek

July 29 - August 9

A SART Heritage Series production about Thomas Wolfe from the time he wrote Look Homeward Angel until his untimely death at the age of 37

by Larry Shue • produced by Asheville Savings Bank

August 12 – 23

A Southern Comedy of Manners At a fishing lodge in rural Georgia, things are not what they seem to be in this hilarious farce of absurd situations and homespun American characters!

828-689-1239 • SARTplays.org 48

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

spork

random and useful

A shopping cart, a banjo and a dream: Local playwright gets into New York Fringe Festival

by Rebecca Sulock Big news and big excitement for local playwright, actor, teacher and Xpress contributor John Crutchfield: His play, Songs of Robert, has been accepted into the New York International Fringe Festival. The mid-August festival spans 16 days, 200 venues and draws about 75,000 people.

It’s Crutchfield’s first foray there, and a chance to show his work in a different world.

“New York audiences are really kind-of legendary for being challenging,” Crutchfield says. “They’re really savvy about theatre, their patience for mediocrity is down around .005 percent.”

The play tells the story of Robert, “a highschool boy growing up in Southern Appalachian town,” writes producer Chall Gray. “In addition to the usual perils of the educational experience — insane guidance counselors, sadistic assistant principals, and megalomaniacal class poets — Robert is also caught up in the surreal world of being in love for the first time as he falls for a seemingly out-of-reach dark-haired girl,” Gray writes.

“This play is actually very rooted in southern Appalachia, its people and places and experiences,” Crutchfield says. “I don’t have any idea how it’s going to go over.”

Originally begun as a passel of poems Crutchfield wrote in graduate school about ten years ago, the play had a successful two-week run last year at N.C. Stage. It wasn’t intended as a one-man play, but after a second actor dropped out, that’s what it became, and how it works best, Crutchfield says.

In little more than an hour, Crutchfield switches between a dozen characters of different age, race and sex. He also performs eight songs, accompanying himself on both slide guitar and clawhammer-style banjo, Gray writes.

Local audiences have a chance to see the show before it heads to New York. Crutchfield will perform two shows on Friday, July 31 at the BeBe Theatre (one at 7:30 p.m. and one at 10 p.m.). The evening will also feature short performances from Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre, improv comedians Karen Stobbe and Mondy Carter, the gripping minimalist folk music of Jaye Bartell’s Pilgrim and performance

The perils of growing up: John Crutchfield as Robert, a character dealing with “insane guidance couselors, megalomaniacal class poets and a seemingly out-of-reach darkhaired girl.” poet Julian Vorus. Tickets are $10; reservations available at 674-2036.

Songs of Robert’s acceptance into the fiercely competitive festival was a homegrown effort, Crutchfield explains. A nicely done DVD made by local videographers William Towers and Peter Brezny surely boosted his application, he says.

Also joining Crutchfield and Gray on the road to New York will be longtime theatre hand Steven Samuels (read his reviews at www. mountainx.com/theatre). “I don’t know how we’ll fit in the same vehicle,” Crutchfield says.

“Luckily the set is basically a shopping cart and two instruments.” X Got random and useful news for Spork? E-mail ae@mountainx.com.

smartbets Bookmania After a one-year hiatus when its event space became unavailable, Osondu Booksellers owner Margaret Osondu brings back Waynesville’s popular Bookmania event. A fine (and long!) list of regional authors will read, including Cecil Bothwell, Peter Loewer, Celia Miles and Angela Dove. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, August 1. Free. First Presbyterian Church, Main Street, Waynesville. Friday night author reception at Osondu Booksellers is $15.

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Farm Fresh Photography Naomi Johnson has captured the bounty of Western North Carolina’s farms in this charming exhibit, up at Greenlife Grocery’s cafe. Opening at 7 p.m. Friday, July 31 with music from superfun, risingstar folkies Now You See Them. Info at www.asapconnections.org and www. naomijohnsonphotography.com.

Riverlink rockin’ riverfest How fun is this? A free festival at French Broad River Park. Featuring a race of homemade yachts, er, rafts... plus a bevy of stuff to do, from a music competition, a kids parade, feats from the Asheville aerial artists, frisbee golf, kayak demos and more. The bands? Pop/electronica artist Jason Ross Martin, the groovin’ Brushfire Stankgrass, teen blues-rockers BlackJack, grunge-rock outfit Hollowpoint, and the ever-funky Secret B-Sides.

Saturday, Aug. 1. Info at www.riverlink.org.

TRA

NSF

AUGUST 13TH 14TH & 15TH

IGU

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE THE GREY EAGLE FINE ARTS THEATRE

RAT

ARTISTS PERFORMING INCLUDE

BONNIE PRINCE BILLY, THE BOOKS, AKRON/FAMILY

ION

THE BUDOS BAND, ESPERS, BRIGHTBLACK MORNING LIGHT

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MOUNT EERIE, CIRCULATORY SYSTEM, THE WAR ON DRUGS JONATHAN KANE, FLOATING ACTION, THE COATHANGERS KURT VILE, ICE CREAM, STEVE GUNN, VILLAGES WEEKEND PASSES & INDIVIDUAL SHOW TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! FOR ANY & ALL INFORMATION (TICKETS, PRICES, SCHEDULE),

Club phone numbers are listed in Clubland in the (828) area code unless otherwise stated; more details at www. mountainx.com/clubland. Send your Smart Bet requests in for consideration by the Monday the week prior to publication.

PLEASE VISIT WWW.HARVEST-RECORDS.COM

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 49

soundtrack

local music reviews

let your worries float away aUggU[Y ZUW]U`g bU]`g []Zh WYfh]Z]WUhYg 8ckbhckb.

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50

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Your rocker roots are showing: Wooden Toothe and The Steves at Stella Blue

by Alli Marshall From the opening notes, fuzzy and aggressive through Stella Blue’s downstairs sound system, Wooden Toothe plants its feet firmly in the fuzzy-and-aggressive territory between country and punk. Yet this is no country-punk outfit. The quartet, fronted by sprightly bass player Pierce Harmon, nods to both Uncle Tupelo and the Sex Pistols with neither a twang nor a sneer to be found. Instead, it’s core of both genres that ultimately prevail: the raw power of instrumentation, vocals and lyrics harnessed within the constraints of tightly crafted three-minute songs If “poppy garage-rock with a punk edge” seems too complicated a description for what Wooden Toothe performs so effortlessly, such a tag line is probably necessary to explain (if not the music itself) the audience. Not a plaid shirt nor studded belt is to be found -- instead this is a crowd of girls in flowered sundresses and guys in plaid Bermudas. It’s neither the audience for country or punk (the listeners are as clean-cut as the guys-next-door band) but the group of 60 or so press toward the stage, nodding heads, tapping toes and dancing with PBRs in hand.

The band (including Jeremy Odom on guitar and vocals, drummer Rett Murphy and Jed Willis playing the petite guitar-mandolin hybrid MandoBird) is well rehearsed: Clearly its members place importance on musicianship. But, like Voltaire said, “Perfect is the enemy of good.” In that spirit, the live show is underscored by driving percussion and capriciousness over too much polish. Guitar solos wail with unabashed ‘70s-era finesse, anthemic rockers toe the line between Ramones-esque stomp and Green Day pop-acumen (minus the formulaic songwriting).

Wooden Toothe maneuvers dexterously between bombastic numbers and slower compositions that allow Harmon to showcase his husky-emotive singing style. “The Stranger,” which opens with a series of snare rolls and a insistent bass line, contains many of the band’s best elements: the building of intensity that blows wide open with soaring guitar, the sexy rasp of vocals and the coiled energy that renders a song (think Tom Petty’s “American Girl”) so catchy. In the end, punk and country flavors aside, what Wooden Toothe does best is craft pure, straight-up rock.

Wooden Toothe’s Jed Willis and Pierce Harmon.

Local quintet The Steves opened the show, offering up their own take on unadulterated rock. In fact, so perfect is the group’s bar band drill that one listener commented, “It’s like you walked into a bar in Panama City in 1995.”

Actually, the recent addition of a baritone saxophone lend the Steves (fronted by Los Angeles transplant Hunter Kalman and with, it’s worth noting, nary a Steve in the lineup) a shade of the ‘80s, but that’s not a bad thing. After taking a decade and a half away from the distinctive sax sound, that Huey Lewis trademark instrument is now finding its way back into modern music. For the Steves, it’s a savvy move, giving distinction to the band’s originals and allowing them to pull off covers like The Rolling Stone’s “Bitch” (noted for the sax work of Bobby Keyes).

For both bands, the sound quality was best in the farthest corners of the room, but that didn’t seems to deter listeners. Kinetic instrumentation and ample charisma kept the audience in close range of the stage.

Learn more at www.myspace.com/woodentoothe and www.myspace.com/thestevesmusic. X

clubland

Dwtn Swannanoa

where to find the clubs â&#x20AC;˘ what is playing â&#x20AC;˘ listings for venues throughout Western North Carolina C lubland rules â&#x20AC;˘To qualify for a free listing, a venue must be predominately dedicated to the performing arts. Bookstores and cafĂŠs with regular open mics and musical events are also allowed. â&#x20AC;˘To limit confusion, events must be submitted by the venue owner or a representative of that venue. â&#x20AC;˘Events must be submitted in written form by e-mail (clubland@mountainx.com), fax, snail mail or hand-delivered to the Clubland Editor Aiyanna Sezak-Blatt at 2 Wall St., Room 209, Asheville, NC 28801.

Events submitted to other staff members are not assured of inclusion in Clubland. â&#x20AC;˘Clubs must hold at least TWO events per week to qualify for listing space. Any venue that is inactive in Clubland for one month will be removed. â&#x20AC;˘The Clubland Editor reserves the right to edit or exclude events or venues. â&#x20AC;˘Deadline is by noon on Monday for that Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publication. This is a firm deadline.

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

BoBo Gallery

Open mic

Next Step Recovery Benefit

What Cheer? Brigade (thrash, crunk)

BoBo Gallery

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Dream Theater w/ special guests Zappa Plays Zappa, Pain Of Salvation & Beardfish

Royalchord (indie Australian duo) &

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm

Town Pump

The Ringing Cedars (rock, indie) w/ Gemini

Open Mic w/ David Bryan

Cricket

Vincenzoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro

Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone

Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Marc Keller (variety)

Open jam w/ Mirage

Watershed

Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Meaghan Farrell Boscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports Zone

Shag music w/ DJ

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm

Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Jack Of The Wood Pub

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s Night

Old Time Jam, 6pm

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Never Blue

Acoustic Soul

Cabo Verde (Flamenco, jazz)

Elaineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dueling Piano Bar

Non-stop rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n roll sing-a-long party

Curras Dom

Mark Guest (jazz guitar)

Waynesville Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Hole

with Richard Barrett & Lyndsay Wojcik

Tues. 08/04

Open Mic Night

Thur. 08/06

Dave Desmelik

Open mic w/ Jarrett Leone

Red Stag Grill

Beacon Pub

Ballroom Dancing with Roger Buckner

Anne Coombs (jazz, swing)

Live music

Diana Wortham Theater

Rocket Club

Blu Lounge

Mountain Dance & Folk Festival

Weedeater w/ Righteous Fool feat: members of C.O.C.

Johnny Blackwell (folk-rock, bluegrass)

Elaineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dueling Piano Bar

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Non-stop rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n roll sing-a-long party

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter)

Scandals Nightclub

Mark Bumgarner

show, 8pm-1am

Frankie Bones

Blair Crimmins & The Hookers

Courtyard Gallery

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Celtic & eclectic jam

Sat. 08/01

Dance Party w/ DJ

Thu., July 30 Julie Ann and Laurel Ridge Bluegrass

Reggae Resurrection

Phuncle Sam

Club 828

Funk jam featuring local artists

Back Room

Emerald Lounge

Thur. 07/30

Ghost of Falco & Soft Opening

Bluegrass jam night (band 8-10pm, open jam 10pm)

show, 8pm-1am

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Wed., July 29

Razcalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Open mic at the Shed w/ Parker Brooks

Boiler Room

LIVE MUSIC beaconpub.info

Garage at Biltmore

Latin dance

Blue Ridge Performing Arts

Emerald Lounge

Back Room

Mixed Bag Open Jam hosted by Michael

The Hookah Bar

Center

40 Furies w/ Death of Analog & Rubber

Open mic

Tao

Open Mic w/ Sven Hooson

Pick~N~Jam

Cushion

restaurant â&#x20AC;˘ lounge â&#x20AC;˘ live music

#OME 4RY /UR .%7 3EASONAL -ENU "AR &AVORITE &OODS WITH ,OCAL 6EGGIES IN 3EASON

LIVE MUSIC BIG SCREEN GREAT SPIRIT ~ Thursday 7/30 ~

6 pm Bar Opens wiTh Wii, Games & Free WiFi

9:15 pm - $3 MOVIE â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Knock the Rockâ&#x20AC;?

~Friday 7/31 ~

6 pm Bar Opens wiTh Wii, Games & Free WiFi Chefs On The Go food available 8 pm - Chuck Beattie Band â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chicago style Bluesâ&#x20AC;? $8

~saTurday 8/1 ~

6 pm Bar Opens wiTh -

-ONDAYS /XYMORONS PM 7EDNESDAYS "LUEGRASS *AM PM 4HURSDAYS -ARK +ELLER PM &RIDAY &REE &LIGHT 6ISIT WEBSITE FOR COUPONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

%AST %XIT "ESIDE (OME $EPOT /LD &AIRVIEW 2D Â&#x201E;

2AZCALSLOUNGE COM

Wii, Games & Free WiFi Chefs On The Go food available 8 pm - MIRIAM MATOSSIAN & FREE PLANET RADIO Exquisite World Music $10

~ Tuesday 8/4 ~

6 pm Bar Opens wiTh Wii, Games & Free WiFi Chefs On The Go food available 6:30 pm - Irish Music Sessions 8:45 pm - OPEN MIKE with PARKER BROOKS

828-669-0816

whitehorseblackmountain.com

mountainx.com â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 51

Galen Kipar Project (folk, rock)

The Sharkadelics (classic rock, metal)

Blu Lounge

Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Dance mix w/ local DJ’s

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Iron Horse Station

Acoustic Swing

Melody and Friends

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

Pierce Edens & the Dirty Work (roots, rock)

BoBo Gallery

Jerusalem Garden

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

MEMES

Belly dancing w/ live music

Grupo Fantasma (Latin-funk orchestra) w/ Sol Driven Train

Boiler Room

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

As Sick As Us w/ Shake Azalia, Undefined, Your Chance to Die & Dead Thoughts Memory (metal)

3 Foot Swagger (rock, funk)

Bosco’s Sports Zone

Five Pound Fire (Southern rock)

Live music

Orange Peel

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Garro (reggae)

F R i d Ay

Live Music No Cover

S At u R d Ay

Woody Wood No Cover tueSdAy

Thursday, July 30 Dave Desmelik - 8pm Friday, July 31 Funkuponya - 7pm Vertigao Jazz Project - 9pm Saturday, August 1 Trainwreks - 8pm Wednesday, August 5 Flat Creek Speed Shop - 6pm Thursday, August 6 Queen Anne’s Revenge - 6pm Secret B-Sides - 8pm Friday, August 7 Marsupial - 6pm Saturday, August 8 Bobby Lee Rogers with Ike Stubbefield - 6pm

Open Mic Night!

733 Haywood Rd. • West Asheville (on the corner of Brevard & Haywood Rd.)

828-505-2129

IRISH PUB

Five Fifty Three

Steve Wolrab & guests (jazz, guitar) Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter) French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Jeff Johansson (acoustic, blues)

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm Handlebar

The Whigs (garage rock) w/ The Winter Sounds Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm Jack Of The Wood Pub

Bluegrass Jam, 9:30pm Lobster Trap

Hank Bones Mela

Belly dancing Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Erika Jane & Remember the Bees (blues, folk) w/ Nikki Talley

3 Foot Swagger $3 Well Gin Drinks

August 1st

An Evening w/ Josh Stack & Shane Pruitt $3 Well Seagrams 7 Drinks

August 7th

Brother Fatback $3 Well Gin Drinks

All shows at 9:30 pm unless noted 77b Biltmore Ave., Asheville, NC 828-258-1550 • mo.daddys@gmail.com Check out our music online! mo-daddys.com 52

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Funkuponya, 7pm w/ Vertigo Jazz Project, 9pm

DJ Diva & The Lee Whitaker Band

Razcal’s

Club 828

Free Flight (rock, variety)

Live music w/ The New Borns

Red Room at Temptations

Club Xcapades

Southern Silk Duo w/ DJ Dday

Live music

Red Stag Grill

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues)

Dancing w/ Darin Kohler & the Asheville Katz feat: Susie Hall

Rocket Club

The Encouraging Cup

Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

The Humbled

Dave Desmelik (Americana)

Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am

The Hookah Bar

Purple Onion Cafe

Eleven on Grove

Jason Ring (multi-instrumentalist)

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Razcal’s

Salsa & Mambo Dancing, 10pm-2am Dance Lessons, 10:30pm

Mark Keller (singer/songwriter)

Emerald Lounge

Red Stag Grill

Sintax the Terrific w/ Lyrikal Buddha, Basik Lee and Zone D, Kurfu & The Unfadeable Fader Operators (hip-hop)

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues)

July 31st

Pisgah Brewing Company

Chaser’s Nitelife

Mountain Dance & Folk Festival

Pisgah Brewing Company

$3 Well Rum Drinks

Who’s Bad (Michael Jackson tribute) w/ The Beast

The Poles (rock) w/ Disguised as Birds & Silver Hand

Singer/songwriter showcase

Erika Jane & Remember the Bees w/ Nikki Talley

Now You See Them (folk, rock) & Karl Southgate

Diana Wortham Theater

Never Blue

July 30th

Broadway’s

O’Malley’s On Main

Rocket Club

Heypenny (indie, rock) w/ The Modern Skirts & The Proclivities

Feed and Seed

Soul Infusion Tea House and Bistro

Fred’s Speakeasy

Singer-songwriter showcase

Ivan The Terrible (rock, other)

The Hookah Bar

French Broad Brewery Tasting Room

Endeavour

The Broken Happy Band (classic rock, blues, funk)

Town Pump

County Farm

Johnsons Crossroad (acoustic, Americana)

Garage at Biltmore

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Brother, Brother CD release party w/ Jeremy Walters

Peggy Ratusz’ Invitational Blues Jam Vincenzo’s Bistro

Live music w/ Aaron Laflace (singer/songwriter) Waynesville Water’n Hole

DJ Lady C & Tonell (West Coast house & East Coast breaks) Westville Pub

Gabe Vitek & the Ivory (pop, rock) Zuma Coffee

Thursday night bluegrass jam

Dash Vara Live music w/ singer-songwriters Town Pump

Bill Noonan (roots, Americana) & The Fallen Gentlemen Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Peggy Ratusz and the Daddy Longlegs (soul, blues) Vincenzo’s Bistro

Bobby Sullivan (piano) Well-Bred Bakery and Cafe

Dave Wendelin (singer/songwriter) White Horse

Chuck Beattie Band (Chicago blues) Wild Wing Cafe

Dubbco Collabo

Gottrocks

Sat., August 1

Sol Driven Train (Americana, roots)

Curras Dom

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Mark Guest & friends (jazz-guitar ensemble)

Wild South & Shannon Whitworth for WNCW’s 20th Anniversary

Back Room

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Beacon Pub

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm Handlebar

Fri., July 31

Unknown Hinson (psychobilly) w/ King Cotton & the Remnants

Back Room

Hangar

Jon Stickley Band (bluegrass) Live music w/ Blair Crimmins and The Hookers (jazz) w/ Richard Barrett Blu Lounge

Music w/ Lady DJ Christian M. Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

clubdirectory Complete clubland directory: www.mountainx.com/clubland. Questions or errors? E-mail (clubland@mountainx.com).

Asheville Civic Center & Thomas Wolfe Auditorium 251-5505 The Back Room (OSO) 697-6828 Barley’s Tap Room (SH) 255-0504 Beacon Pub 686-5943 Blue Mountain Pizza (OSO) 658-8777 Blue Lounge 650-5198 Blue Ridge Performing Arts Center 693-0087 BoBo Gallery (OSO) 254-3426 Bosco’s Sports Zone 684-2646 Broadway’s (SA) 285-0400 Chaser’s (SA) 684-3780 Club 828 252-2001 Club Hairspray (SA) 258-2027 College St. Pub (SA) 232-0809 Courtyard Gallery 273-3332 Curras Dom 253-2111 Decades Restaurant & Bar 254-0555

Diana Wortham Theater 257-4530 Dock’s Restaurant 883-4447 Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar 252-2711 Eleven on Grove 505-1612 Emerald Lounge (OSO) 232- 4372 The Encouraging Cup 329-8210 Feed & Seed + Jamas Acoustic 216-3492 Firestorm Cafe (OSO) 255-8115 Five Fifty Three 631-3810 Frankie Bones 274-7111 Fred’s Speakeasy (SA) 281-0920 French Broad Brewery Tasting Room 277-0222 The Garage 505-2663 Gottrocks 235-5519 Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern (OSO) 232-5800 Grove House Eleven on Grove 505-1612

T O

The Grove Park Inn 252-2711 Guadalupe Cafe 586-9877 The Handlebar (864)233-6173 The Hangar (SA) 684-1213 Havana Restaurant 252-1611 The Hookah Bar 252-1522 Infusions 665-2161 Iron Horse Station 622-0022 The Lobster Trap 350-0505 Mack Kell’s Pub & Grill 253-8805 Magnolia’s Raw Bar (ISS) 251-5211 Mela 225-8880 Mike’s Tavern 281-3096 Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill (SH) 258-1550 New French Bar Courtyard Cafe 225-6445 Never Blue 693-4646 O’Malley’s On Main 246--0898

The Orange Peel (OSO) 225-5851 Picnics 258-2858 Panther’s Paw 696-0810 Pisgah Brewing Co. 669-0190 Purple Onion Cafe 749-1179 Rankin Vault 254-4993 Razcal’s 277-7117 Red Stag Grill at the Grand Bohemian Hotel 505-2949 Rocket Club 505-2494 Root Bar No.1 299-7597 Ruby’s BBQ Shack (ISS) 299-3511 Sadie’s Seafood 505-3364 Scandals Nightclub 252-2838 Shovelhead Saloon (SA) 669-9541 Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro (OSO) 586-1717 Steak & Wine 505-3362

Stella Blue 236-2424 The Still 683-5913 Switzerland Cafe 765-5289 The Red Room at Temptations (SA) 252-0775 Temptations Martini Bar (SA) 252-0775 Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub 505-2129 Town Pump (SA) 669-4808 Tressa’s Downtown Jazz & Blues (SA) 254-7072 Vaso de Vino Wine Bar & Market 687-3838 Vincenzo’s Bistro 254-4698 The Watershed 669-0777 Waynesville Water’n Hole 456-4750 Westville Pub (OSO) 225-9782 White Horse 669-0816 Wild Wing Cafe (SA) 253-3066 Xcapades 258-9652

FRIDAY • JULY 31

Pierce Edens & The Dirty Work Dirty Roots Rock SATURDAY • AUGUST 1

County Farm Bluegrass Bordering on the Nuclear!

S MOKE OR NO T T O S MOKE

OSO: outdoor/patio smoking only • SH: smoking hours, call clubs for specfics • ISS: indoor smoking section • SA: smoking allowed

The Great White Jenkins (gospel, country, roots)

Kovacs & The Polar Bear CD release show (indie, folk) w/ Bob Burnette

Boiler Room

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Gillotine w/ Let the Guilty Hang, Convalescence & Machines of Sin and Sorrow (metal)

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm

Scandals Nightclub

Bosco’s Sports Zone

Handlebar

The Hookah Bar

Live music

Headstache

DJ Diva & The Lee Whitaker Band

Today We Escape, Xmas, Symphony For The Heist, Dark Before Dawn, State of Konfusion, As Your Own & more (metal, hard-rock)

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Hangar

Town Pump

Rotating guest bands

Live music

South 85

Diana Wortham Theater

Havana Restaurant

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Mountain Dance & Folk Festival

Ahora Si (salsa, jazz, tropical)

Live music w/ Marc Keller (variety)

Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Westville Pub

Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm

One Leg Up (Gypsy jazz)

Jack Of The Wood Pub

White Horse

Emerald Lounge

County Farm (bluegrass)

Cadillac Jones

Jerusalem Garden

Mariam Matossian (Armenian Folk) w/ Free Planet Radio

Feed and Seed

Belly dancing w/ live music

High Windy (bluegrass, Americana)

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Josh Stack (folk, rock) & Shane Pruitt

Sweetwater Revolver (singer/songwriters)

Never Blue

Fred’s Speakeasy

Secret B-Sides (soul, R&B)

Jimbo w/ The Gin Fitz

Purple Onion Cafe

BoBo Gallery

Chaser’s Nitelife

Garage at Biltmore

Marjorie Thompson (folk, acoustic, blues)

The Legendary JC’s (blues, funk)

Red Room at Temptations

Gottrocks

Southern Silk Duo w/ DJ Spy-V

Piedmont Boys (Southern rock)

Red Stag Grill

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues)

FRIDAY • AUGUST 7

Firecracker Jazz Band

Rocket Club

Saint Solitude (indie) w/ Lewis, Ba Man Bia & Darien DJ Dance Party & Cabaret Show

Dixieland Does a Body Good SATURDAY • AUGUST 8

Woody Pines

Tolliver’s Crossing Irish Pub

Woody Wood (soul, rock)

Sun., August 2 Curras Dom

Eleanor Underhill (singer/songwriter) Bosco’s Sports Zone

Shag music w/ DJ Grove Park Inn Great Hall

The Two Guitars of Yasmin & Lou, 10am12:30pm Bob Zullo (guitar), 630-10:30pm Jack Of The Wood Pub

Rag Time/Country Blues/Lightning Speed Folk

EvEry Monday

Wacky Wing Night - 25¢ Wings & $2 Draft

WEdnEsday

Sound Extreme Karaoke 8pm Wacky Wing Night - 25¢ Wings & $2 Draft

Thursday

Live Music | $4 Kamakazees | $2.75 Import Bottles

FrIday

Sound Extreme Karaoke 8pm $5 Long Island Teas | $3.50 23oz Domestic Draught

6 46” PLaSMa TV’S DaILY DRINK & FOOD SPECIaLS OPEN DaILY @ 5PM - 12PM HOLIDaY INN – BILTMORE WEST 435 SMOKEY PaRK HWY. aSHEVILLE, NC 828.665.2161

saTurday - 5/23

Live Music $5 Redbull Bombs | $3 Local Highland Beer

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 53

Wed. 7/29 Thur.

7/30

Next Step Recovery Benefit 8pm Grupo Fantasma w/ Sol Driven Train 9pm Wild South Benefit with Shannon Whitworth for WNCW’s 20th! 9pm Kovacs & The Polar Bear CD Release Show 9pm

Fri. 7/31

SaT. 8/1 Wed. 8/5

Unknown Hinson 9pm

ThurS. Reigning 8/6

Sound w/

The Thomas Function 9pm

Fri. 8/07

Vollie and Karl & The Western Wildcats 9pm

232-5800 www.thegreyeagle.com 185 Clingman Ave.

thurSday, July 30

JohnSon’S CroSSroad

Irish session, 5pm Tom Waits time, late

Guadalupe Cafe

Chad Hallyburton (jazz guitar), 7-9pm

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm

Lobster Trap

Hangar

Guadalupe Cafe

Chris Rhodes

Open mic night

Ian Moore’s Mountain Music Miscellany

Orange Peel

Razcal’s

Iron Horse Station

Saving Abel (alt-rock) w/ By Morning

Tony Ballew (guitar and vocals), 5:30 pm — The Oxymorons (improv comedy), 8 pm

Open mic w/ Yorky

“Vinyl at the Vault” w/ DJ Chris

Rocket Club

Rocket Club

Asheville Jazz Orchestra (swing, jazz)

Jeoffrey Weeks (piano)

Sunday jazz jam

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Scandals Nightclub

Marc Keller & Company (variety)

DJ Dance Party & Cabaret Show

Westville Pub

The Hookah Bar

Belly dance w/ live music

Open mic w/ Scott Stewart 7:30pm Apres OM, 11pm

Town Pump

Tue., August 4

Razcal’s

Back Room

Motown classics w/ The Mixx

Tony Campbell (instrumental, classical)

Temptations Martini Bar

Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Pickin’ at the Pump, open acoustic jam Vincenzo’s Bistro

Johnny Blackwell (variety, covers)

New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Davila 666 & Pinche Gringo Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge

Open mic w/ Pierce Edens

Open mic

The Hookah Bar

Curras Dom

Blu Lounge

Selector Cleofus Williams & guests

Greg Olson & Richard Graham (world, folk)

Open mic w/ Earl Clarence, Dick Frost & more

Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Emerald Lounge

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Open mic

Buddy David Band

Chuck Lichtenberger presents “An Evening of Jazz” with special guests

Gottrocks

Eleven on Grove

Vincenzo’s Bistro

Doobe and the Other Brothers

Swing & Tango lessons and dance

Marc Keller & Company (variety)

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Emerald Lounge

Watershed

Contra dance

Live music w/ Robert Greer

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Ashevegas All-Stars presents Tuesday Night Funk Jam

Bob Zullo (guitar), 630-10:30pm

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Blues Jam w/ Mars Fariss

:gdi^X! :mdi^X4

Bill noonan & the Fallen gentleMen Saturday, auguSt 1

8db[n! 8VhjVa4

open MiC night

piCkin’ at the puMp

8:30 pmw/ David Bryan open acoustic Bluegrass Jam

MOndayS!

$1 Beer

Open SundayS nOOn- Midnight MOn. - wed. 3pM - Midnight thurS. - Sat. 3pM - 2aM

828-669-4808

135 Cherry St. BlaCk Mountain, nC

MySpaCe.CoM/townpuMptavernllC JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

TUESDAY Decades Getaway’s (Eleven on Grove) Headlights • Mike’s Side Pocket W EDNESDAY Beacon Pub • Fred’s Speakeasy The Hangar • Blu Lounge Norton’s Grill • Temptations Martini Bar O’Malleys on Main • Infusions T H URSDAY Chasers • Club Hairspray Razcals • Shovelhead Saloon FRIDAY Infusions • Mack Kell’s Norton’s Grill • Shovelhead Saloon SATURDAY

Westville Pub

club xcapades

SundayS!

Mack Kell’s Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

DJ Matt & friends

GORGEOUS WNC Ladies!

wedneSdayS!

MONDAY

Funk record spin night w/ DJ Rob

Beacon Pub

South 85

IN T HE C L U B S

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Mon., August 3

Friday, July 31

54

Lobster Trap

K ARAO K E

3 New Satellite Stages & “Exotic Cage Stage”

Just Relax in Our Upscale Lounge Area & Take in the Scenery Great Nightly Drink Specials, Pool Tables, & Interactive Games.

Club Hairspray • Infusions Norton’s Grill • The Still Shovelhead Saloon SUNDAY Bosco’s Sports Zone • College St. Pub Getaway’s (Eleven on Grove) The Hangar • Mack Kell’s Wing Cafe White Horse

Irish session, 6:30pm Open mike w/ Parker Brooks, 8:30pm Wild Wing Cafe

Bluegrass & clogging

Wed., August 5 Curras Dom

Mark Guest (jazz guitar) Back Room

Open mic Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Open mic Bosco’s Sports Zone

Shag music w/ DJ Broadway’s

‘80s Night Decades Restaurant & Bar

Mon. - Sat. 7pm - 2am • 21 to Enter

828-258-9652 99 New Leicester Hwy.

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Acoustic Soul Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am Emerald Lounge

Reggae Resurrection

Emerald Lounge

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

Firestorm Cafe and Books

Funk Messengers & The Summertime Whiskey Band (funk, rock)

Bosco’s Sports Zone

Celtic & eclectic jam Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter) Garage at Biltmore

Mixed Bag Open Jam hosted by Michael Tao Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Unknown Hinson (“country and western-tinged psychobilly”) Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm Jack Of The Wood Pub

Old Time Jam, 6pm Never Blue

Cabo Verde (Flamenco, jazz) Orange Peel

Xavier Rudd w/ Jeremy Fisher Razcal’s

Bluegrass jam night (band 8-10pm, open jam 10pm) Red Stag Grill

Anne Coombs (jazz, swing) Rocket Club

Galictifunk (disco, funk, house & DJs) Scandals Nightclub

Latin dance The Hookah Bar

Open Mic w/ Sven Hooson Town Pump

Open Mic w/ David Bryan Vincenzo’s Bistro

Marc Keller (variety) Watershed

Open mic at the Shed w/ Parker Brooks Waynesville Water’n Hole

Funk jam featuring local artists

Thu., August 6 Back Room

Exception to the Rule (traditional bluegrass)

Five Fifty Three

Steve Wolrab & guests (jazz, guitar) Frankie Bones

Chris Rhodes (singer/songwriter) Garage at Biltmore

Beazley Phillips Band & The Dave Turner Band

Broadway’s

DJ Diva & The Lee Whitaker Band Club Xcapades

Live music Decades Restaurant & Bar

Handlebar

Tonic (rock) w/ Civil Twilight & The Will

Feed and Seed

Buncombe Turnpike (bluegrass, acoustic)

Lobster Trap

Fred’s Speakeasy

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Magnolia’s Raw Bar

Garage at Biltmore

A Social Funk-tion (party covers)

Donna Jean Godchaux Band w/ Jeff Mattson

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Belly dancing

Larry Keel and Natural Bridge (bluegrass)

Never Blue

Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Singer/songwriter showcase New French Bar Courtyard Cafe

Vollie and Kari & The Western Wildcats (Western swing, honky tonk)

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Grove Park Inn Great Hall

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Perpetual Groove (rock)

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm

Purple Onion Cafe

Handlebar

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Brantley Gilbert (singer/songwriter) w/ Jess Franklin

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues) Soul Infusion Tea House and Bistro

Singer-songwriter showcase Vincenzo’s Bistro

Live music w/ Aaron Laflace (singer/songwriter) Waynesville Water’n Hole

Hangar

The Sharkadelics (classic rock, metal) Horizons at Grove Park Inn

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm Iron Horse Station

Alan Darveux’s Band Jack Of The Wood Pub

Firecracker Jazz Band (Dixieland jazz) Jerusalem Garden

Live music

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Blu Lounge

Beacon Pub

Belly dancing w/ live music

Westville Pub

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Johnny Blackwell (folk-rock, bluegrass)

The Corduroy Road (Americana, folk)

Brother Fatback (rock, blues)

Blue Ridge Performing Arts Center

Zuma Coffee

Orange Peel

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Corey Smith (singer/songwriter) w/ American Aquarium

Open jam w/ Mirage Courtyard Gallery

Open mic w/ Jarrett Leone Decades Restaurant & Bar

Ballroom Dancing with Roger Buckner Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am

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Alex Caton (old time, Gypsy) Blu Lounge

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Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am

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Purple Onion Cafe

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Fred’s Speakeasy

Menage (indie, rock)

Jimbo w/ guests

Red Room at Temptations

Garage at Biltmore

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Trees Leave (Americana) Blu Lounge

Music w/ Lady DJ Christian M.

Black Cash & Whiskey Dick Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern

Blue Mountain Pizza Cafe

Buncombe Turnpike CD release show (bluegrass) w/ Dave Desmelik

Locomotive Pie (originals & blues)

Grove Park Inn Great Hall

Chris Rhodes (r&b, blues, pop), 5:30-10pm

Bill Covington (classics), 6-7pm Maddy & Masterpiece (dance band), 7-11pm

Bosco’s Sports Zone

Handlebar

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Ancient Sky, Gift Horse & Doom Ribbons

Hangar

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Havana Restaurant

Decades Restaurant & Bar

Ahora Si (salsa, jazz, tropical)

Rotating guest bands

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Elaine’s Dueling Piano Bar

Lajos Pagony (piano), 6-10pm

Blue Ridge Dining Room & Wine Bar

Non-stop rock’n roll sing-a-long party show, 8pm-1am

Jack Of The Wood Pub

Woody Pines (rag time, blues)

Mo-Daddy’s Bar & Grill

Robert Thomas (jazz standards, blues) Charlie’s on Acid Scandals Nightclub

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Angelo SantaMaria (rock, blues) The Hookah Bar

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Live music w/ singer-songwriters Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues

Gashouse Mouse (blues, dance) Vincenzo’s Bistro

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The Humbuckers (alt-country, folk-rock)

crankyhanke

theaterlistings Friday, JULY 31 - Thursday, AUGUST 6

Due to possible last-minute scheduling changes, moviegoers may want to confirm showtimes with theaters. n Asheville Pizza &

movie reviews and listings by ken hanke

JJJJJ is the maximum rating

Brewing Co. (254-1281) Night at the Museum (PG) 1:00, 4:00 Terminator Salvation (PG-13) 7:00, 10:00

additional reviews by justin souther • contact xpressmovies@aol.com

pickoftheweek

Please call the info line for updated showtimes.

Tetro

n Carmike Cinema 10

JJJJJ

(298-4452)

Director: Francis Ford Coppola Players: Vincent Gallo, Maribel Verdú, Alden Ehrenreich, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Carmen Maura

Drama

Rated NR

The Story: A young man attempts to reconnect with his brother who ran away from home years before, only to uncover truths that neither of them are prepared to face.

The Lowdown: An altogether beautiful and dynamic piece of filmmaking — personal and bold and unlike anything you’ve seen or are likely to see this year.

I went into Francis Ford Coppola’s Tetro knowing absolutely nothing about it. I hadn’t seen a trailer or read a word about the film. When I was asked if I could make a screening of the movie, I had to ask what it was. I hadn’t even seen a poster until a few minutes before walking into the theater and taking my seat. I wasn’t prepared for anything in particular, but I certainly never dreamed that I’d find myself watching a film that mixed the most gorgeously photographed black-and-white widescreen imagery I’ve seen in years with equally striking non-wide-screen color footage. As someone who isn’t a hardcore Francis Ford Coppola admirer, I also had no reason to expect that I’d spend the next two hours thinking, “Now, this is real filmmaking.” However, that’s exactly what happened.

Tetro may not be the best written movie out there; I’ll concede that point at once.

I figured out the mystery at the story’s core considerably before Coppola chose to reveal it, but that didn’t make it any less compelling — nor did it diminish the power of its revelation to the characters.

Regardless, there’s more to filmmaking than writing, and Tetro is positively alive with that “more.” Its level of visual beauty, psychological complexity and incredible creativity overcomes any reservations I might have about Coppola’s writing.

And those reservations are minor in any case.

Tetro begins with 17-year-old Bennie (newcomer Alden Ehrenreich) arriving in Argentina in search of big brother, Angie (Vincent Gallo), who “deserted” him years

Maribel Verdú, Alden Ehrenreich and the shadow of Vincent Gallo in Francis Ford Coppola’s complex — and fantastically beautiful — Tetro. earlier. Having run away from home himself, Bennie lied about his age and got a job on a cruise ship that somewhat conveniently develops engine trouble near his brother’s current home. Bennie — clinging to a note from long ago where Angie promised to come back for him — is hoping for a warm welcome and gets one from Angie’s girlfriend, Miranda (Maribel Verdú, Pan’s Labyrinth). Angie, on the other hand, is less than delighted by Bennie’s arrival, having shut himself off from his old life completely. In fact, he is no longer Angie, but calls himself Tetro, and has become a bitter expatriate who views himself as a failed writer, eking out a living on the fringes of the local theater community.

Against his better judgment, Tetro allows Bennie to stay till his ship is repaired.

Circumstances dictate a longer stay than that, during which Bennie manages to translate and put in order a suitcase full of Tetro’s coded writings — writings that he thinks explain Tetro and what happened to him. In fact, he turns those writings into a play by giving them the ending they lacked. This action only enrages Tetro, who is finally persuaded to go along with the production at the urging of Miranda.

But the conclusion Bennie has offered the work turns out to be untrue — a supposition that, however, will in turn bring that truth to light.

As a story, that’s about all there is to Tetro, which can be taken as part com-

ing-of-age story (Bennie) and part coming to terms with one’s self (Tetro). It scores nicely on both levels, but what makes the film brilliant rather than merely good is the way — the wholly cinematic way — in which Coppola presents the material. It’s bold, full-bodied filmmaking all down the line, as past and present collide in ever-startling images and symbolic turns. Actions that at first seem incomprehensible make perfect sense as the story unfolds. On occasion Coppola teeters on the brink of pure melodrama, but melodrama is not entrely wrong for something as operatic in tone as this particular film, especially one that pays hommage to (and includes clips from) Michael Powell and Emerich Pressburger’s The Tales of Hoffman (1951).

An altogether personal film (there are strong traces of Copolla’s own life around the edges), Tetro is a rare cinematic experience on every level. There’s been nothing like it on theater screens for a very long time, and it serves as a reminder of that fact. Don’t miss the chance of seeing this on the big screen — its visual beauty demands it be seen large for full appreciation. I can’t wait to see it again — more than once. Not rated, but contains adult themes, nudity and language.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Starts Friday at Fine Arts Theatre.

Aliens in the Attic (PG) 12:45, 3:00, 5:15, 7:30, 9:45 The Collector (R) 1:15, 3:30, 5:45, 8:00, 10:15 G-Force (3-D) (PG) 12:20, 1:15, 2:35, 3:30, 4:50, 5:45, 7:05, 8:00, 9:20, 10:15 Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (3-D) (PG) 12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 7:10, 9:30 Land of the Lost (PG-13) Open Caption Tue-Wed only 4:00, 7:00 My Sister’s Keeper (PG-13) 1:45, 4:20(no 4:20 show Tue-Wed), 7:10 (no 7:10 show Tue-Wed), 9:45 Orphan (R) 1:30, 4:20, 7:10, 10:00 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (PG-13) 12:30, 1:30, 3:45, 4:45, 7:00, 8:00, 10:15 The Ugly Truth (R) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45 Up 2-D (PG) 12:30, 2:55, 5:20, 7:40, 9:55 n Carolina Asheville

Cinema 14 (274-9500)

Aliens in the Attic (PG) 11:10, 1:20, 3:45, 7:15, 9:30 Away We Go (R) 11:40, 2:15, 4:45, 7:50, 10:25 Cheri (R) 11:10, 1:40, 4:20, 7:35, 9:45 Food, Inc. (PG) 11:00, 1:15, 3:25, 5:40, 7:55, 10:05 Funny People (R) 12:15, 3:35, 7:00, 10:20 G-Force (3-D) (PG) 11:50, 2:05, 4:30, 7:05, 9:25 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (PG) 11:35, 2:50, 7:00, 10:15 The Hurt Locker (R) 11:55, 3:05, 7:20, 10:25 Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (PG) 11:30, 1:50, 4:15, 7:10 Orphan (R) 12:00, 3:15, 8:10, 10:35 The Proposal (PG-13) 11:20, 1:55, 4:35, 7:25, 9:55 Public Enemies (R) 11:25, 2:35, 7:30, 10:30

Summer Hours (PG) 11:05, 2:10, 4:50, 7:40, 10:10 Tranformers: Revenge of the Fallen (PG-13) 9:35 The Ugly Truth (R) 11:15, 1:30, 4:10, 7:10, 9:50 n Cinebarre (665-7776)

Funny People (R) 11:20, 2:50, 6:15, 9:40 G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (PG-13) Thu Aug 6 12:01 a.m. only Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (PG) 11:00, 2:30, 6:05, 9:35 Orphan (R) 11:30, 2:50, 5:50, 8:50 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (PG-13) 11:15, 2:35, 6:10, 9:30 The Ugly Truth (R) 12:15, 3:00, 6:00, 8:35, 11:00 n­­­ Co-ed Cinema Brevard (883-2200)

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (PG) 12:00, 3:30, 7:00, 10:30 n Epic of Hendersonville (693-1146) n Fine Arts Theatre

(232-1536)

Moon (R) 4:20, Late show Fri-Sat 9:40 Tetro (NR) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, Late show Fri-Sat 9:30 Whatever Works (PG-13) 1:20, 7:20 n Flatrock Cinema

(697-2463)

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (PG) 3:45 Public Enemies (R) 12:15 (Sat-Sun), 7:30 n Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15 (684-1298) n United Artists Beaucatcher (298-1234)

Funny People (R) 12:45, 4:00, 7:20, 10:25 The Hangover (R) 1:30, 4:15, 7:50, 10:10 Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince (PG) 12:30, 1:00, 3:45, 4:30, 7:00, 8:00, 10:20 I Love You, Beth Cooper (PG-13) 1:40, 4:40, 7:40, 10:00 The Proposal (PG-13) 1:20, 4:20, 7:30, 9:55 Public Enemies (R) 1:10, 4:10, 7:10, 10:15

For some theaters movie listings were not available at press time.

Please contact the theater or check mountainx.com for updated information.

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 57

nowplaying Brüno JJJJJ

Sacha Baron Cohen, Gustaf Hammarsten, Clifford Bañagale, Elton John, Bono, Sting Provocative Quasi-Documentary Satire Sacha Baron Cohen stars as Brüno, a disgraced, outrageously gay Austrian fashion expert, who comes to the U.S. in search of fame. An in-your-face attempt at outraging the viewer with a barrage of bad taste and deliberately provocative scenarios that explore homophobia and the mania for celebrity status. Often funny, always in questionable taste and sure to offend many. Rated R

Drs. Kline, Shepherd, Haaksma and Plaut of

Community Family Practice, PA are pleased to announce the addition of

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Beginning August 3, 2009

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than one really expensive Saturday-morning cartoon.

Rated PG

Moon JJJJ

Sam Rockwell, Dominique McElligott, Kevin Spacey (voice), Kaya Scodelario Science Fiction/Drama Strange things start happening during the last days of a three-year contractee’s stint on a lunar mining base. Thoughtful, sober, wholly compelling science fiction of the kind not generally seen in modern film, with a standout performance from Sam Rockwell. Rated R

Food, Inc. JJJJJ

My Sister’s Keeper JJ

Michael Pollan, Eric Schlosser Documentary An examination of how food is produced and how government control — in terms of safety and truth — has fallen by the wayside.

An often grim, but neither hopeless nor off-putting documentary that’s worth watching by anyone who eats. Rated PG

Abigail Breslin, Cameron Diaz, Sofia Vassileva, Jason Patric, Evan Ellingson, Thomas Dekker, Alec Baldwin Disease-of-the-Week Drama A girl who has been genetically designed to be the ideal donor for her ailing sister sues her parents for the right to make her own decisions about her body. A provocative idea is swallowed whole in a sea of soapy melodrama and contrived writing. Rated PG-13

G-Force JJJJJ

Orphan JJ

(Voices) Sam Rockwell, Nicolas Cage, Jon Favreau, Penélope Cruz, Tracy Morgan Kiddie Action/Adventure A covert government task force made up of guinea pigs must go rogue in order to stop an arms dealer from taking over the world. A likable cast and some dandy use of 3-D makes for a harmlessly entertaining kiddie flick.

Rated PG

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince JJJJJ

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Michael Gambon, Jim Broadbent, Alan Rickman Fantasy/Adventure/Horror Harry and company move one step further toward adulthood and the inevitable confrontation that must one day take place.

A surprisingly adult and even somber entry in the popular franchise that neatly builds to the two-part climax to come, while offering solid entertainment and artistry of its own. Rated PG

The Hurt Locker JJJJJ

Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty, Guy Pearce, Ralph Fiennes, David Morse War/Drama A look into the lives of a bomb squad on the last few weeks of their tour of duty in Iraq.

A rivetting, suspenseful war film that packs a wallop unlike any other film to date on the war in Iraq.

Rated R

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs JJ

(Voices) Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, Dennis Leary, John Leguizamo, Simon Pegg Animated Comedy/Adventure The various prehistoric creatures of the Ice Age franchise return, this time only to stumble upon a world inhabited by dinosaurs.

The worst kind of sequel, one with zero originality and zero effort, making this whole mess nothing more

Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard, CCH Pounder, Isabelle Furhman, Jimmy Bennett, Margo Martindale Creepy Child Horror A couple unwisely brings a creepy Russian orphan into their home. Mayhem follows. Tacky, tasteless and finally preposterous horror that moves so slowly the film seems to be running backwards. Rated R

The Proposal JJJ

Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Betty White, Mary Steenburgen, Craig T. Nelson, Malin Akerman Romantic Comedy In order to stay in the U.S., an unpleasant, powerful book editor blackmails her assistant into marrying her. Flat, dragged-out predictable romantic comedy, saved to some extent by the two stars — once the film gives them a fighting chance. Rated PG-13

Public Enemies JJJJ

Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, Marion Cotillard, Billy Crudup, Stephen Graham, Stephen Dorf Fact-Based Gangster Drama The story of “folk hero” bank robber John Dillinger and G-Man Melvin Purvis’ pursuit of the notorious criminal. The machine guns blaze, guys ride around on the running boards of cars, plus everything else you’d expect, but the film is just not as compelling as it ought to be in the end. Rated R

Summer Hours JJJJ

Juliette Binoche, Charles Berling, Jérémie Renier, Edith Scob, Dominique Reymond Drama When the matriarch of a French family dies, her children are left to divide her estate. A beautifully thoughtful film that isn’t going to be to every taste, but which has a lot to say about the connections of past, present and future. Rated NR

Tetro JJJJJ

Vincent Gallo, Maribel Verdú, Alden Ehrenreich, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Carmen Maura Drama A young man attempts to reconnect with his brother who ran away from home years before, only to uncover truths that neither of them are prepared to face. An altogether beautiful and dynamic piece of filmmaking — personal and bold and unlike anything you’ve seen or are likely to see this year.

Rated NR

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen J

Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, John Turturro, Kevin Dunn Mind-Numbing Sci-Fi Action Bad robots versus good robots out to destroy and save the world, respectively, while interrupting Shia LaBeouf’s college education. Long, tedious, offensive and just plain awful. Rated PG-13

The Ugly Truth JJJJJ

Katherine Heigl, Gerard Butler, Bree Turner, Eric Winter, Nick Searcy, Cheryl Hines Mildly Raunchy Romantic Comedy Rom-com antics involving the battle between a TV producer and her unwanted star performer that plods down a well-worn path. An attempt to make the romantic comedy more “adult” by grafting on low jokes and rough language. It almost never works — in large part due to mismatched leads. Rated R

Up JJJJJ

(Voices) Edward Asner, Christopher Plummer, Jordan Nagai, Bob Peterson, Delroy Lindo Animated Fantasy/Adventure Faced with being sent to a retirement home, the 78-year-old Carl Fredricksen — a former balloon vendor at a zoo — ties an unbelievable number of balloons to his house and floats away in search of an obscure part of South America that he and his wife always planned to see. An altogether remarkable — and remarkably moving — film that’s on the very short list of best of 2009. Rated PG

Whatever Works JJJJJ

Larry David, Evan Rachel Wood, Patricia Clarkson, Ed Begley Jr., Henry Cavill, Chistopher Evan Welch Comedy An aging curmudgeon finds his comfortable misery turned upside down when he takes in a young Southern beauty queen who has run away from her repressive parents. Prime Woody Allen — even vintage Woody Allen — with nonstop laughs and more than a little something on its mind. Rated PG-13

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startingfriday ALIENS IN THE ATTIC

It started life as They Came From Upstairs, but that was considered too cerebral apparently, so it turned into Aliens in the Attic, which frankly makes it sound like the movie is about illegal immigrants in hiding. In this case, however, these are aliens of the outerspace variety. There’s some positive murmuring out there based on the fact that the screenplay is by Mike Burton (Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit) and Adam F. Goldberg (Fanboys). Director John Schultz’s last effort was The Honeymooners. The trailer looks pretty awful if you’re older than your shoe size. It has not been screened for critics. (PG)

THE COLLECTOR

Horror fans are supposedly primed for this film due to the fact that writerdirector Marcus Dunstan and co-writer Patrick Melton wrote the last couple Saw movies. We’ll see. It stars people you have likely never heard of and is all about breaking into a house that’s been rigged with nasty booby traps (presumably Saw style). On the plus side, it has the good sense to stop after 88 minutes. The film has been kept from prying critical eyes. (R)

FUNNY PEOPLE

The third film from Judd Apatow (yeah, his name has been all over the place, but not as a director) teams Adam Sandler with Seth Rogen, Jason Schwarzman, Leslie Mann (Mrs. Apatow), Jonah Hill and Eric Bana.

Early word is this film is both a move into more serious territory for Apatow and something of a problem in terms of structure. The story follows dying comedian George Simmons (the trailer tells us he gets better) played by Sandler. George has never had a true friend, but after his diagnosis, he is led to befriend a younger comedian (Rogen). That the movie is a whacking 140 minutes long is worrisome, since excessive length and comedy are usually poor companions. (R) Early reviews samples: • “Leisurely, with many extended sequences, but the performers’ natural command of rhythm holds it in tension.” (David Denby, The New Yorker) • “Candid but long-winded, well observed but undisciplined, Funny People feels like Judd Apatow’s diploma picture marking his move from high school to college as a filmmaker.”

(Todd McCarthy, Variety)

THE HURT LOCKER

See review in “Cranky Hanke.”

TETRO

See review in “Cranky Hanke.”

G-Force JJJ

Director: Hoyt Yeatman Players: (Voices) Sam Rockwell, Nicolas Cage, Jon Favreau, Penélope Cruz, Tracy Morgan

Kiddie Action/Adventure Rated PG

The Story: A covert government task force made up of guinea pigs must go rogue in order to stop an arms dealer from taking over the world.

The Lowdown: A likable cast and some dandy use of 3-D makes for a harmlessly entertaining kiddie flick.

From Francis the Talking Mule to the recently deceased Taco Bell dog, America loves its talking animals. Disney’s G-Force is the latest entry in this long tradition. The days of hooking fishing line to Mr. Ed’s mouth to make him talk are long gone.

Here we get a bevy of CGI guinea pigs out to save the world. It’s obviously a reaction to — and an attempt at cashing in on — the unfortunately rampant popularity of 2007’s Alvin and the Chipmunks. That G-Force is better than Alvin is no surprise (the mere fact that “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” is nowhere to be heard in this movie automatically makes it better), but what is surprising is how well G-Force works as a popcorn flick for the elementary-school set.

This movie is disposable entertainment, pure and simple. But seeing as how it’s aimed squarely at youngsters, with its undemanding plotting and short (88 minutes) running time, it meets its modest ambitions. G-Force is just one of those movies I’m sure my 8-yearold self would’ve loved, simply because it never attempts to be anything more than the enjoyable kiddie flick it sets out to be.

Of course, this doesn’t make G-Force a good movie, especially if you’re an adult and are used to the action-movie clichés the film likes to parade around. The setup is straightforward, with a mawkish government agent (Zach Galifianakis, The Hangover) in charge of a group of specially trained, covert rodentia, each filling out his or her requisite hackneyed action/adventure role. There’s the tough-guy leader, Darwin (Sam Rockwell), the sassy Juarez (Penélope Cruz) and Blaster (Tracy Morgan), the comic relief. The team even includes a nebbish nerdy mole voiced by Nicolas Cage, which is surprisingly the most fun and exciting he’s been since wearing a bear suit at the end of The Wicker Man (2006).

The group of varmints manages to uncover a plot to take over the world by home-appliance magnate Saber (Bill Nighy). However, before they can foil the evil-doing, they’re disbanded by a surly government agent (Will Arnett, The Rocker). They contrive to run away from the agent, only to be trapped in a pet store with a flatulent, overweight guinea pig named Hurley (Jon Favreau). With only a little bit of time before the excrement hits the air conditioning, it’s up to these critters to escape and save the world as we know it.

There’s nothing terribly original about the plot. It mostly just trades in the usual action-

movie tropes, like gratuitous explosions and zingy one-liners. None of it is surprising in the least, including the film’s big twist that’s telegraphed in the first five minutes. But the movie moves along quickly and the cast is likable enough that it doesn’t matter all that much (it’s nice to see a kid’s movie devoid of an obnoxious character or performance).

Director Hoyt Yeatman — helming his first feature after doing visual effects in Hollywood for the past three decades — gets some of the most good out of the 3-D process that I’ve seen since the popularization of RealD 3-D technology over the past few years. Pixar’s Up recently tried to legitimize 3-D beyond its usual gimmickry, going for subdued visual depth as opposed to the typical 3-D odds and ends flying out over the audience. G-Force, on the other hand, bases every action set piece around some eyes-a-poppin’ 3-D effect. By fully embracing the cheesiness of 3-D, Yeatman has made a fun — if not substantial — little kid’s movie, even if it risks making its 2-D version utterly worthless. Rated PG for some mild action and rude humor.

— reviewed by Justin Souther Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15.

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Director: Kathryn Bigelow (K-19: The Widowmaker) Players: Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty, Guy Pearce, Ralph Fiennes, David Morse

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War/Drama Rated R

The Story: A look into the lives of a bomb squad on the last few weeks of their tour of duty in Iraq.

The Lowdown: A rivetting, suspenseful war film that packs a wallop unlike any other film to date on the war in Iraq.

Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker stands the best chance yet of breaking the resistance of audiences to movies about the war in Iraq.

It’s already far and away the best-reviewed film on the topic. And it’s not hard to see why. Not only is it the best-made and most compelling film on the war, it is also almost scrupulously apolitical in its approach. I don’t think the film actually is apolitical, but it’s savvy enough to just put the material out there and let the viewer decide what to think.

The movie has one basic point — that war is, or can be, a drug. Rather than preach that, it illustrates the theme — as well as its counterpoint — via a suspense-driven character study, making it the kind of war picture we haven’t seen in some considerable time.

Claims that it’s the best movie about war since Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket (1987) may not be far off the mark, though it’s worth noting that The Hurt Locker lacks the scope and the perspective of distance of the Kubrick film. It’s an altogether more intimate work, and one that’s powerful in an entirely different way.

The Hurt Locker follows a single bomb squad through a stint in Iraq. At the film’s

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beginning, the squad consists of Sergeant JT Sanborn (Anthony Mackie, Half Nelson), Sergeant Matt Thompson (Guy Pearce) and Specialist Owen Eldridge (Brian Geraghty, Bobby). The opening sequence finds them on a more or less routine mission — one conducted by the book — that goes wrong through what may well be completely accidental circumstances. These circumstances might in fact be due more to language and cultural differences than to any other factor. The film doesn’t address this point directly, but the results cause Thompson to be replaced by Staff Sergeant William James (Jeremy Renner, 28 Weeks Later).

James is everything that Thompson wasn’t.

He’s cocky, full of himself and not much of a team player. Rather than go by the rules and safely detonate bombs from a distance with the aid of robotics, James prefers to get right into the thick of things and defuse the bombs, caring little for his own safety or that of his team. His attitude doesn’t sit well with Sanborn and only adds to the basic horror of Eldridge, who is clearly out of his element in this milieu to begin with.

James is also not exactly the most open of men. He sets up his basic daredevil character and offers little for his comrades beyond that. When an exasperated Sanborn calls him “redneck trailer trash,” James merely observes that his compatriot has him pretty well pegged. Even the viewer is left to little more than bits and pieces of what’s beneath the hot-dog facade. The film allows us glimpses of the pain underneath all this.

It even offers suggestions of humanity — or more correctly of a desire for it — but it never elaborates on any of this.

The film is developed very shrewdly and effectively through a series of set pieces.

Each of these — starting with the brilliantly achieved opening sequence — is a little essay in effective filmmaking. Bigelow understands how to achieve both suspense and perfectly lucid action. While she employs the currently trendy shaky-cam approach — more at the beginning of the film than later on — she has a firm grasp of the logistics of the action.

You’re never left wondering who’s shooting at whom or where the characters are in relation to each other.

The results are a tense, exciting, suspenseful movie with characters that seem less like actors than like real people. Though Renner gives a strong performance in the lead, there are really no movie-star turns in the entire picture — not even in the “guest star” appearances of Ralph Fiennes and Guy Pearce. The film simply feels real. Its conclusion — which, yes, can be read politically as a broader statement about the U.S., and not just about James — is as chilling and devastating as anything you’ll find in current film. This is the closest any film on the subject of the war in Iraq has gotten to greatness. Rated R for war violence and language.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Starts Friday at Carolina Asheville Cinema 14.

Orphan JJ

Director: Jaume Collet-Serra (House of Wax) Players: Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard, CCH Pounder, Isabelle Furhman, Jimmy Bennett, Margo Martindale

Creepy Child Horror Rated R

wedge brewery Bananas JJJJ

Director: Woody Allen Players: Woody Allen, Louise Lasser, Carlos Montalbán, Nati Abascal, Jacobo Morales

Comedy Rated PG-13 When people talk about Woody Allen movies in terms of his “early funny ones,” what they mostly mean are Take the Money and Run (1968), Bananas (1971) and Sleeper (1973).

Of those, I’ve always been most partial to Bananas — the anything-goes comedy about a singularly inept poor schlepp (Woody) who becomes an even more inept revolutionist in order to impress a political-activist girl (Louise Lasser). As far as filmmaking, it’s pretty indifferent. As far as screenplay, it’s little more than a collection of gags that come tumbling out so fast that more of them work than don’t. It’s a little too strong on the physical comedy, which isn’t really Allen’s forte and always feels a bit mechanical. But it’s such a wild collection of brilliant notions and rampaging silliness that it’s pretty much on the irresistible side.

How it could be possible to dislike a movie in which political prisoners are tortured by being made to listen to excerpts from Naughty Marietta (1935) is beyond my comprehension. That anyone could fail to laugh at Woody quickly picking up a tire iron and using it as a cross in order to join a religious procession and make a getaway is unthinkable.

Show me the person who can resist the spectacle of a large black woman (Dorthi Fox) as J. Edgar Hoover (in disguise) and I’ll look askance at that person. Yes, Allen has made better movies — lots of them — but I’m not sure he ever made anything funnier.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Bananas will be shown as part of the Wedge Brewing Company’s Outdoor Cinema series at 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at 125-B Roberts St.

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 • mountainx.com

Jamie Howard LCSW, MSW, MA

hendersonville film society

Psychotherapy

Jean de Florette

Experienced • Effective • Committed • Safe

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Director: Claude Berri Players: Yves Montand, Gérard Depardieu, Daniel Auteil, Elisabeth Depardieu

Drama

Rated PG

Claude Berri’s Jean de Florette (1986) — adapted by Berri and longtime Roman Polanski collaborator Gérard Brach from Marcel Pagnol’s novel (itself drawn from Pagnol’s 1953 film Manon of the Spring) — is really only half a film, since it is meant to be followed by Berri’s Manon of the Spring. Worry not, however, because the Hendersonville Film Society will be showing Manon next week. Though either film is comprehensible without the other, the impact of the films is greatly enhanced by seeing both. The first film — the slower paced of the two — sets up much of the characterization and tone for the second.

The story is a simple one about a man (Gérard Depardieu) who inherits a piece of land in the country. He wants nothing more than to live there with his wife and child and start a farm. Unfortunately, an unscrupulous neighbor (Yves Montand) wants the property for the spring that’s on it and proceeds to have his nephew (Daniel Auteil) block the spring in an effort to drive the newcomer out and get his land at a low price. It’s a tale of greed and duplicity set very deliberately in some of the most beautiful countryside imaginable in order to heighten the ugliness of the human behavior. A stealthy work that creeps up on the viewer, becoming intriguing without seeming to work at it.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke The Hendersonville Film Society will show Jean de Florette at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2, in the Smoky Mountain Theater at Lake Pointe Landing Retirement Community, 333 Thompson St., Hendersonville. (From Asheville, take I-26 to U.S. 64 West, turn right at the third light onto Thompson Street. Follow to the Lake Point Landing entrance and park in the lot on the left.)

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The Story: A couple unwisely brings a phobia by giving the adopted Esther (Isabelle creepy Russian orphan into their home. Fuhrman, Hounddog) a foreign background complete with a Natasha Badinov accent.

Mayhem follows.

The Lowdown: Tacky, tasteless and finally preposterous horror that moves so slowly the film seems to be running backwards.

Toward the end of the 1930 Marx Brothers picture Animal Crackers, Groucho and Chico are trying to discover what became of a stolen painting — a sequence that climaxes with Chico reasoning that the painting in question hasn’t actually been stolen, but that “left-handed moths ate the picture.” I cite this because it seems like a model of pure reason when put up against the laugh-outloud solution to the events of Jaume ColletSerra’s Orphan, the latest in a long line of movies about creepy, evil, even homicidal children.

Among the film’s many mistakes is its quaint insistence on a “rational” ending. Such endings were all the rage in the 1920s, when it was felt that audiences would accept even the most preposterous tosh of an explanation so long as it wasn’t supernatural. In the case of the insanely overlong (123 minutes) and impossibly tedious Orphan, the silliness does provide the movie with a degree of entertainment value — however unintended — that it otherwise almost completely lacks.

Ah, well, as the poster says, “There’s something wrong with Esther.” There certainly is. The poor orphan is trapped in this terminally dull and dimwitted movie.

If you’ve seen the trailer, you already know this is one of those stories that works on the basis that adoption is a risky business.

In this case, the film throws in a little xeno-

The message is clear: Self-possessed Eastern European orphans with a penchant for singing Billy Hill’s “Glory of Love” are not to be trusted. (What is it with psychopaths and musical fixations?) This could be valuable knowledge, though I doubt its practical application for most people.

Life lessons do not end there. I suspect there is some degree of profundity to be mined from the fact that adopting-mom Kate (Vera Farmiga) is a recovering alcoholic who is grieving over a child that was born dead, feeling guilty because she was in a drunken stupor that allowed the near drowning of deaf daughter Max (newcomer Aryana Engineer), and nursing a grudge against husband John (Peter Sarsgaard) over a tryst he had with another woman 10 years ago. I, however, am just too worn out from assessing this aggregation of angst to think about what it all means.

The bulk of the molasses-impeded movie is given over to the revelation that Esther is the exact kind of bad news one might expect from a little girl whose last adoption stint ended with the house mysteriously burning to the ground. There are three little signs that Esther is not who she seems: She won’t let mom see her naked; she won’t go to the dentist; and she won’t allow anyone to remove the ribbons she wears on her neck and wrists. My guess is that you’ve already figured out two-thirds of the supposedly shocking answer.

Of course, we know that Esther is the badseed incarnate, because viewers of the film get to see things the parents don’t — and

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 61

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we’ve seen the trailer. Kate is suspicious, but John is oblivious to such a spectacular degree that he could only exist within the confines of a cheesy horror picture. His obtuseness is endorsed by Kate’s shrink (Margo Martindale, Hannah Montana: The Movie), whose office appears to be located just outside a meatpacking plant. (Through the office windows we can see guys carrying sides of beef, which hardly seems conducive to therapy.)

I will concede that the climactic section of the movie manages to be silly, tasteless and utterly predictable all at the same time. That may be viewed as some kind of accomplishment, if one is in a charitable frame of mind.

But somehow it’s neither as sincere nor as satisfying as the moment in the director’s previous horror picture, House of Wax (2005), where Paris Hilton got a pole through her head. Maybe if Hilton had played Esther?

Rated R for disturbing violent content, some sexuality and language.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 10, Cinebarre, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15.

Summer Hours JJJJ

Director: Olivier Assayas (Irma Vep) Players: Juliette Binoche, Charles Berling, Jérémie Renier, Edith Scob, Dominique Reymond

Drama

Rated NR

The Story: When the matriarch of a French family dies, her children are left to divide her estate.

The Lowdown: A beautifully thoughtful film that isn’t going to be to every taste, but which has a lot to say about the connections of past, present and future.

Olivier Assayas’ Summer Hours is a movie that falls prey to the relativity factor. Had this thoughtful film not come my way in the same week I saw Francis Ford Coppola’s Tetro and Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker, I feel certain it would have impressed me more than it did. Still, on its own merits, it impressed me a good deal — and that’s

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an equal testament to its quality in its own way.

I’ll say from the onset that Summer Hours is a film for specialized tastes. It’s not exciting. It’s hardly action-packed. Assayas plays his cards close to his chest — rarely commenting, never stressing his points, just letting the viewer take in the quiet enormity of what’s really going on beneath a story that can be reduced to one simply concept: disposing of a large estate and the collectibles it holds. But there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface of that simple concept.

On its most basic level, the film is a kind of “end of an era” drama — the kind of emotionally charged work that makes one long to hold onto something that will soon be no more (what it is doesn’t even have to be entirely desirable). However, Assayas is going for something much more complex than that, as becomes obvious in his tendency to play against sentimentality at almost every turn.

The film starts with a sequence that could easily have gone from the sentimental to the mawkish: the 75th birthday party for Hélène (Edith Scob), mother of three, grandmother of a few more and keeper of the flame for her late uncle, a painter, whose house she inhabits. The house is also where her three children — Adrienne (Juliet Binoche), Frédèric (Charles Berling) and Jérémie (Jérémie Renier) — grew up. The children make light of her old age. The most attached, Frédéric, even tries to deny it altogether, but the fact is that Hélène knows her time is short and is trying to settle what becomes of things after her death in the most pragmatic manner possible. She knows that which Frédéric refuses to see: that the house will have to be sold and the collections auctioned off or given to the state in lieu of taxes. She realizes that her children — Adrienne lives in New York City, Jérémie in China — are not a part of this past any longer, and that her grandchildren are even less so.

No sooner does she die than the mechanics of all this are put into play and much comes to the surface — much of it with very sly observational detail. Frédéric is easily outvoted, much to his sorrow, but among his siblings he’s shown to be the least in tune with the reality of his late mother. They blandly accept the idea — their assump-

tion of it — that Hélène’s devotion to their uncle was the result of an affair. The idea, which turns out to be true, slightly horrifies Frédéric — a man not trying to preserve the past as he thinks, but rather trying to preserve his childhood image of a past that never quite existed.

The film glides through a series of similar revelations — registering a quiet sadness at the prospect of a society that is becoming devoid of a sense of its own history. Two of the children — Adrienne and Jérémie — don’t even feel especially connected to France. But Assayas isn’t out to present a tract against our growing globalized society.

There’s something far deeper going on here.

The film isn’t just about accepting the passage of time; it offers the sense that what is now being dismantled was itself the result of people who in their own way had rejected — or moved away from — an earlier past. This is made quite clear, but only if the viewer is willing to pay attention to every detail of the film. Nothing is arbitrary in Summer Hours.

Understand that each event, each piece of information, each ironic detail is in place for a reason. Do that, and you’ll find a remarkable work — one that eschews sentiment in favor of celebration and hope. Not rated, but contains adult themes, language, some drug use and a lot of French folks smoking.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carolina Asheville Cinema 14.

The Ugly Truth JJ

Director: Robert Luketic (21) Players: Katherine Heigl, Gerard Butler, Bree Turner, Eric Winter, Nick Searcy, Cheryl Hines

Mildly Raunchy Romantic Comedy Rated R

The Story: Rom-com antics involving the battle between a TV producer and her unwanted star performer that plods down a well-worn path.

The Lowdown: An attempt to make the romantic comedy more “adult” by grafting on low jokes and rough language. It almost never works — in large part due to mismatched leads.

Robert Luketic’s The Ugly Truth may not be pretty, but it is certainly predictable. Oh,

I’ve seen worse movies — and I don’t think it’s nearly as appallingly bad as its 15 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes might indicate — but I can’t call it good or anywhere near it. It’s the sort of movie I can actually imagine garnering some respectable laughter in a crowded theater, but it’s also the sort of movie where I have trouble imagining anyone remembering what they laughed at a couple hours later.

Here’s the pitch: Abby (Katherine Heigl) produces a lackluster news show that appears to be entirely staffed by wacky characters.

Mike (Gerard Butler) has a public-access TV show, The Ugly Truth, where he basically paints men as terminally horny sex pigs that can only be bamboozled into relationships by nonthreatening women who let the nonetoo-bright male think he’s in charge. Abby runs afoul of Mike when her cat (insert feline euphemism joke here) steps on the remote control and hits his show. She’s so appalled that she calls his phone line — only to have him get the better of her. The next morning she learns that her perpetually beleaguered station manager (is there any other kind?), Stuart (Nick Searcy), has hired Mike and added his program to her lineup.

Of course, they hate each other — especially since he boosts the ratings like they’ve never been boosted. With tension in the air, Mike makes a bet with Abby. If she’ll follow his advice, he’ll help her snag her dreamman neighbor, Colin (TV actor Eric Winter).

If it doesn’t work, Mike will resign. Naturally enough, it works exactly as planned. There’s this thing the studio publicists insist on calling “an unexpected result.” It’s the sort of unexpected result that happens when Christmas falls on December 25. It’s also

the sort of thing that a witty script, spritely direction and/or chemistry between the leads can make work. The Ugly Truth lacks all three to one degree or another.

The screenplay has a bad case of Apatowenvy and expends the time that might have been profitably spent in search of truly witty banter on trying to be edgy with crude jokes and lots of swearing. The results are a little like watching a 15-year-old attempt to show you up. The direction is somewhere between fussy (what’s up with all that swirling camera business in the early scenes?) and the improbably lazy. I get that it was more practical to shoot the hot-air balloon scenes on a soundstage in front of a green screen.

But really this looks only marginally better than Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy in a balloon in 1939 in You Can’t Cheat an Honest Man. The big clunker, though, is the chemistry between Heigl and Butler. No amount of effort will create chemistry if it’s not there — and it’s not there. Heigl tries, and it shows.

Butler tries, but seems not to. He gives a performance that’s much better than the movie deserves — and makes the movie seem better than it is — but he can’t generate sparks with his co-star regardless. Even an equally — possibly more — lame film, the recent The Proposal, had that going for it, and it overcame much that can’t be overcome here. And that’s the zither that cooks the goose. Rated R for sexual content and language.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Playing at Carmike Cinema 10, Carolina Asheville Cinema 14, Cinebarre, Epic of Hendersonville, Regal Biltmore Grande Stadium 15.

pritchard park series Tarzan the Ape Man JJJJ

Director: W.S. Van Dyke Players: Johnny Weissmuller, Maureen O’Sullivan, C. Aubrey Smith, Neil Hamilton

Jungle Action/Adventure

Rated NR

Here it is — the grandaddy of Tarzan movies. Well, sort of. It’s hardly the first Tarzan picture. That honor goes to Tarzan of the Apes with Elmo Lincoln back in 1918, and there were quite a few others between then and 1932 when Tarzan the Ape Man was made. This, however, is the first Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan — and, for better or worse, Weissmuller etched in stone the cinematic notion of the jungle hero for years to come. This is the picture from which we draw the whole “Me Tarzan, you Jane” schtick. That’d be fine, except that’s not something that ever happens in the course of the film. (The dialogue involves only pointing, with only the words “Tarzan — Jane.”) It can hardly be called a great movie, but it’s still a lot of fun — and sometimes surprisingly nasty in that way that only pre-code Hollywood movies can be.

For 1932, it’s actually a rather crude movie that has all the earmarks of having been made mostly because director W.S. Van Dyke had all manner of useful African footage left over from making Trader Horn on location there in 1930. That’s also why the film is rife with process work and rear screen (check out the scene where C. Aubrey Smith and Maureeen O’Sullivan review a row of very out-of-scale tribesmen). The story itself revolves around the search for the mythical elephants’ burial ground and, of course, Jane being swept off her feet — and into a tree — by Tarzan. But, hey, you get people being torn apart by being tied to two bent trees and Tarzan fighting a gorilla (well, Ray Corrigan in an ape suit). What more do you want?

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Tarzan the Ape Man is the first in a series of four films that will be shown Saturday nights at dark in Pritchard Park, starting this Saturday, Aug. 1. Presented by the Alvy Fund and the Friends of Pritchard Park, in association with the Hendersonville Film Society. Film historian

world cinema Yojimbo

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Director: Akira Kurosawa Players: Toshirô Mifune, Tatsuya Nakadai, Yôko Tsukasa, Isuzu Yamada

Black Comedy/Action

Rated NR

Lightweight Akira Kurosawa to be sure, still Yojimbo (1961) remains one of the director’s most entertaining and best-liked films (and his most successful work in Japan). The movie is a singularly odd creation: It more or less uses the framework of Dashiell Hammett’s novel Red Harvest — in which a detective from outside cleans up a corrupt town by pitting rival factions against each other — but I’m not sure I’d call it an adaptation exactly.

Using that setup and changing the detective to a wandering samurai (Toshirô Mifune), Kurosawa turns the whole thing into a Japanese Western, even to creating a town with one central street that’s just built for showdowns. (The film is so like a Western that Sergio Leone appropriated it for A Fistful of Dollars in 1964.)

This is then approached in a darkly comic manner that almost verges on the slapstick subgenre (well in advance of such a subgenre existing). Kurosawa then tops it off by applying an offbeat score by Masaru Satô that can best be described as a fusion of Japanese music and 1950s jazz. This is one of those movies where it sounds like none of it should work and yet all of it sometimes does. Mifune gives an exceptional — and quietly humorous — performance as a man who cares nothing for the amoral town (the first thing he sees on his arrival is a dog with a human hand in its mouth) and manages to get paid for doing nothing.

— reviewed by Ken Hanke Yojimbo, part of a series of Classic Cinema From Around the World, will be presented at 8 p.m.

Friday, July 31, at Courtyard Gallery, 9 Walnut St. in downtown Asheville. Info: 273-3332.

mountainx.com • JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 63

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• Tim Navaille: 828-251-1333 ext.111, tnavaille@mountainx.com • Rick Goldstein: 828-251-1333 ext.123, rgoldstein@mountainx.com • Arenda Manning: 828-251-1333 ext. 138, amanning@mountainx.com

FREE ADS:

Vehicles, Pets, Musicians, Roommates, Sale Items, Yard Sales (20 word limit, individuals only) Go to www.mountainx.com/classifieds

Real Estate

Open House

2PM-4PM • THIS SUNDAY! Village on Haywood, mixeduse Healthy Built development in heart of West Asheville. • Only 1 residential unit left in the $140,000’s. • I-240W to exit 2, Right on Haywood. Village will be on right, about 1 mile. The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

$169,900 • CANDLER 10 minutes to downtown Asheville. 3BR, 2BA, built 2007. Open floor plan, hardwood floor. Appliances included, WD connections.

Great yard for garden. Karla Goethe, broker/owner: (828) 551-3399.

Homes For Sale

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, Aug 2, 2:00 - 4:00. 4 Bowling Park Rd. Charmingly restored Kenilworth bungalow, 3BR, 2BA with separate income producing 2BR, 1BA cottage.

0.54 acres and lot can be subdivided to create a 0.33 acre vacant lot (houses and lot may be purchased separately). Classic 1920’s features: HW floors, FP, inglenook, exposed beams, built-ins. Modern amenities: private master suite, laundry room on main level, wellappointed kitchen. Extensive landscaping and hardscaping with many outdoor living spaces. Full basement prepared for finishing (new electrical, plumbing, concrete floor).

MLS 445725, $564,900.

UrbanHomeRevival.com, 828-545-2892.

64

$179,000 • GROVE PARK This brick 2 bedroom features hardwood floors, recent interior paint, a natural gas furnace, mature landscaping, and a private backyard adjoining a small stream. Walk to downtown.

Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

$179,000 • MARSHALL 2BR, 1BA cottage on 1+ acres. Screened porch overlooking French Broad River, landscaping, woodfloors, new tile, lovely trim work, built ins. Close to downtown, 22 minutes to Asheville. • Excellent vacation rental!

MLS#441827. Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 •

$185,000 • WEST ASHEVILLE Perfect home in the perfect neighborhood.

2BR, 1BA, large lot, deck, basement. Quiet yet convenient location. 35 Maple Crescent. Call to see: (828) 545-2311.

$209,000 OAKLEY • 3BR, 1.5BA. 1,382sq.ft.

Remodeled Bungalow.

Photographs on owners.com.

Call Matt for details/showing (828) 989-9450. 95 Liberty Street.

$199,900 • GREAT VALUE!!

Alexander: 3BR, 2.5BA on 1 acre. Hardwood floors, nice kitchen, all appliances, walkout basement. Deck overlooks fenced yard/woods. $1000 carpet allowance. N. Buncombe schools. Dave Couch, Century 21 Broker: (828) 777-9810. davec@ c21mountainlifestyles.com

$225,000 • ARDEN 2 Fox Glen Court. MLS#444570.

Great South location. 3BR, 2BA, one level on flat lot. • Convenient to Asheville, Hendersonville, shopping and dining. Wonderful home at a great price. • Contact Richard Ensley with DWELL/EcoHouse Realty for details: (828) 606-3045.

DWELLinAsheville.com

$200,000 • WEST ASHEVILLE BUNGALOW A classic bungalow, from the covered front porch to the back steps. 2 bedrooms, bonus room, fireplace, woodfloors, laundry in enclosed back porch, fenced backyard, carport. Close to West Asheville amenities.

Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

mountainx.com

$269,000 • MONTFORD Located in the Montford Historic District, this 4BR, 2BA restored traditional has retained all its original charm! Large, covered porch, renovated kitchen, woodfloors, updated electric and plumbing, private fenced yard. Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

$295,000 • BLACK MOUNTAIN New 2003 sqft, 3BR, 2.5BA, large lot 2 story w/Master on main. Large kitchen/dining area, solid cherry cabinets. Master ceramic bath w/garden tub and step-in shower. Gas fireplace. Large windows and dormers. 9’ ceilings.

Crown molding. Utility area.

HardiPlank exterior. Nichiha shakes. Nice front porch.

Apple trees. Historic garden space. (352) 258-3660.

$369,900 • CAROLINA LANE Eclectic residential free-standing building w/studio and work space.

Tin ceilings, abundant light, 1296 sqft on main level plus full basement. The Real Estate Center: (828) 2554663. www.recenter.com

$567,500 • GROVE PARK This 5BR, 3.5 bath features spacious decks overlooking a park-like setting and mountain views. This historic, light-filled home has a renovated kitchen, high ceilings, and a private in-law suite. Located in a kidfriendly neighborhood close to downtown, Charlotte Street Park, Grove Park Inn. MLS#436466. Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

$8000 TAX CREDIT • HELPING BUYERS for over 20 years! Take advantage of my experience and expertise. Get the best price and the representation you deserve! • Karen Taylor, Keller Williams Professionals: (828) 450-2660. karentaylor@kw.com 10,000 HOMES • 1 ADDRESS! Search virtually all MLS listings. Visit www.KWBrent.com

1000’s OF ASHEVILLE HOMES! On our user friendly property search. New features include Google Mapping and Popular Neighborhood searches.

Check it out at townandmountain.com

13.5 ACRE FARM • $599,000 4BR, 2BA log home with deck, pond, mountain views, garden, creek, outbuildings, fencing, and southern exposure. Land is all usable. Owner is a licensed NC real estate broker. MLS#437500. Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com

145 SOUTH WILLOW BROOK on 1.68 acres!

Immaculate, spacious, nearly new, approximately 2650 sqft Plus Big full expandable basement w/drive under garage! 3BR, 3BA plus extra room with bath upstairs, den, office, big open kitchen/dining/living area w/hardwood floors, master suite main level! Quiet living just 10 minutes to downtown! MLS#442912. $339,900. Call owner to see!

(828) 777-4843.

HomesByOwner.com/65986

163 APPALACHIAN WAY $162,900. West Asheville.

Charming 3BR, 2BA home, built 2000. • Park in back for one level living. Tastefully remodeled. New stainless appliances. Central air.

Covered front porch. • Fenced backyard, see Mount Pisgah view. Quiet neighborhood near I-40.

(828) 274-5059. • 40+ photos: www.JoyProperties.com 411 WEST HAYWOOD Asheville. MLS#438265.

Trend setting eco-chic urban green development, 6 homes clustered at the top of Chicken Hill. Walk to the river arts district, downtown.

Amazing detailed modern finishes, lots of IKEA cabinets, professional interior design. Huge light filled walkout basement. NC Healthy Built Home certified.

• 5 other units between $250-$350K. This home is offered at $299,900. Contact David Mosrie for details: (828) 275-4108. www.EcoHouseRealty.com

A BETTER WAY TO SELL! America/Asheville’s #1 FSBO Website with MLS, deluxe Realtor.com for Maximum global exposure! Best listing value WNC, Low Flat Fee listing, Save THOU$AND$! www.RevolutionRealty.net (828) 350-1995. www.HomesByOwner.com/ Asheville CHARMING 1930’S BUNGALOW • 2BR, 1BA. Walk to downtown Asheville.

Hardwood floors, high ceilings, gas fireplace, central heat/AC, and more.

Asking $208,000. 331 Hillside street off Charlotte.

828-545-0058.

COMPACT COTTAGE COMPANY • Small “green”built buildings usable for an enormous variety of practical applications, such as: Sleep, Work, Mother-in-law storage, Poker, Karaoke, Be in the doghouse in. From $15K30K. compactcottages.com, 828-254-5450.

EAST ASHEVILLE • WARREN WILSON AREA Rare find! Secluded cottage minutes from town! Beautiful country setting, 2BR, 1BA, newish roof, maple hardwood/ceramic tile floors, upgraded bath, new composite deck w/pergola, Monitor heat w/Vermont castings woodstove! Totally clean, move in condition! $164,000. MLS#445606.

(706) 319-4484.

HomesByOwner.com/32652

GET RESULTS! â&#x20AC;&#x153;When we started advertising, we quickly determined that our best response was from our inexpensive ad in the Mountain Xpress Classifieds!

Thanks for 10 years, Asheville.â&#x20AC;? Dale Mayberry, Mayberry Heating and Cooling, Inc. You too, can benefit from advertising in Mountain Xpress. Call today!

(828) 251-1333.

Home Services

Construction HOME ON 5 ACRES â&#x20AC;˘ $599,900. 5-acre miniestate with a park-like setting. Complete updated 3BR residence. Magnificent seclusion on private cul-desac. Call 828-694-1558.

Sheelah Clarkson Agency.

Linda@SheelahClarkson.com

MONTFORD BUNGALOW â&#x20AC;˘ $268,000. Adorable, move-in ready. Walk to downtown, grocery, neighborhood restaurants, parks. 3BR, 2BA, central air, hardwoods, tile, basement, workshop, storage room, patio, garden.

Jeff, Diedra 828-280-4677.

Details/photos http://montfordhouse. wordpress.com

REEMS CREEK BUNGALOWDEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Weaverville, just minutes to Asheville. Classic bungalow in peaceful setting, 225k w/.5 acre, up to 3.36 acres available. Great opportunity for builder who wants development potential w/existing rental income.

Call Martin, Compass Realty (828) 545-5885.

TREASURE SEEKERS OPEN HOUSE â&#x20AC;˘ Explore the best kept secret in downtown Weaverville! New stone & hardiplank 3BR, 3BA bungalow. 3 decks for nature lovers on just under .5 acre of landscaping, storybook woods and stream. Handhewn hardwood, upgrade carpet, tile, appliances and trim, maple cabinets, whirlpool tub. Private but Main St. shops a few blocks away. OPEN this Saturday, July 18th, noon-3pm. Check out this gem for $269,900!

Owner/broker (828) 768-3339.

VERY COOL BUNGALOW â&#x20AC;˘ New kitchen, refinished hardwood floors, new laundry and bath, wrap around front porch, large corner lot. This is a wonderfully updated 1300 sq.ft. bungalow ready to move in. $149,999. 828582-7198.

WEST ASHEVILLE â&#x20AC;˘ MULTIFAMILY ZONING. $399,900. Prime .92-acre site zoned RM-8 for multifamily and infill smart growth development. House sold as is. 828-694-1558.

Linda@SheelahClarkson.com

Condos For Sale $129,500 â&#x20AC;˘ BILTMORE COMMONS Convenient to I40, I-26. Well-maintained 2BR, 2BA , pool, clubhouse, all appliances convey. New AC. FSBO: (828) 665-8731.

HISTORIC S&W CONDOS: Heart of downtown! Beautiful Art Deco building. Third and fourth floor units. Mountain or City views. From $290,000. The Real Estate Center: (828) 255-4663, www.recenter.com â&#x20AC;˘ info@recenter.com

SWANNANOA â&#x20AC;˘ On one wooded acre with stream.

Charming, back to nature privacy. 2BR, spring water.

Two decks, wood stove. Near exit 59. $135,000. Owner financing with $5K down.

828-698-0902.

$162,900 â&#x20AC;˘ FLETCHER TOWNHOME 367 Wiltshire Circle. MLS#443962.

Professionally appointed, end unit townhome in convenient location. Close to shopping, dining, and airport. 3BR, 2.5BA. Ceiling fans, single garage, plenty of cabinet space, and large deck.

Contact Richard Ensley with DWELL/EcoHouse Realty for details: (828) 606-3045.

DWELLinAsheville.com CLINGMAN LOFTS Own for $650/month. Includes taxes, dues and insurance.

Heating/cooling cost guaranteed at $16/month.

Mike Vance, 254-4030, ext.

117.

Handy Man HIRE A HUSBAND Handyman Services. 25 years professional experience, quality, reliability.

References available. Free estimates. Insured. Stephen Houpis, (828) 280-2254.

RELIABLE REPAIRS! Quality work! All types maintenance/repair, indoor/outdoor.

Excellent water leak detection/correction! 38 years experience!

Responsible! Honest!

Harmonious! References!

Call Brad, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be Glad!

(828) 273-5271.

Heating & Cooling LEXINGTON STATION Downtown condos, garage parking, wood floors, private balconies, stainless appliances, fitness center. â&#x20AC;˘ 3BR penthouse: $499,000. â&#x20AC;˘ 2BR, 2BA: $289,900. â&#x20AC;˘ The Real Estate Center: (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com WEST ASHEVILLE Townhome with spacious kitchen, livingroom, and dining room. 3BR, 2BA. Pet friendly. $138,500. Will consider lease option.

828-925-1180.

First time buyers receive up to $8000 tax credit when buying a home in 2009. â&#x20AC;˘ With rates at 40 year lows, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been a better time to buy! All move-in ready 3BR, 2BA with many upgrades, $139,900.

Mountain views, pet friendly, owner-occupied. Call Brickton Village today! Nitch Real Estate. (828) 654-9394 or bricktonvillage.com

Land For Sale RIGHT ON THE PARK! Starting at $249,000.

Contemporary Craftsman style with porches, hardwood floors, solarassisted hot water. The Real Estate Center (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

EMMONS CARPENTRY SERVICES 36 years experience. Renovations â&#x20AC;˘ Repairs â&#x20AC;˘ Decks â&#x20AC;˘ Window and Door Installations â&#x20AC;˘ Garages â&#x20AC;˘ Additions and more â&#x20AC;˘ Interior/Exterior Painting. â&#x20AC;˘ Quality workmanship.

Excellent local references. Fully insured. â&#x20AC;˘ In Hendersonville. Free estimate: (828) 5517976. Member BBB. www.emmonscarpentry services.com

4.17 ACRE LOT â&#x20AC;˘ With amazing views on Town Mountain Road. 4.2 miles from downtown and 1 mile to Parkway. $199,000 ($43K below tax listing).

(828)216-7050, stevewhiteproductions@ gmail.com

Real Estate Services OFFICE WAREHOUSE. Asheland Avenue. Close in, 2,400 sqft, Merchandise, wholesale, service business, $2,500/month, Call 216-6066.

MAYBERRY HEATING AND COOLING INC â&#x20AC;˘ Service â&#x20AC;˘ Repairs â&#x20AC;˘ Replacements AC/Heat Pumps â&#x20AC;˘ Gas/Oil Furnaces â&#x20AC;˘ New Construction/Renovations â&#x20AC;˘ Indoor Air Quality Products.

(828) 658-9145.

Home â&#x20AC;&#x153;FREE TV CONNECTIONSâ&#x20AC;?

From Computer Monitor To Your Big Screen TV/ Watch Movies & TV Programming For â&#x20AC;&#x153;FREEâ&#x20AC;?. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Possible To Get â&#x20AC;&#x153;OFFâ&#x20AC;? Cable - Dish or Direct TV For Good! richardlevinson@charter.net.

828-683-5739.

ACCENT PAINTING â&#x20AC;˘ We specialize in the residential market.

Interior/exterior painting, deck finishing, concrete coatings, pressure washing. No VOC paint at no extra charge. Ask about our 30% discount.

828-318-1447. accent@rodbailey.net www.rodbailey.net

Caregivers

ELK MOUNTAIN ASSOCIATES We specialize in â&#x20AC;˘ re-fitting Bathrooms and Kitchens and finishing Basements â&#x20AC;˘ adding Garages, Porches and â&#x20AC;˘ Sunrooms. â&#x20AC;˘ Professional education and experience.

Call (828) 242-1950 or (for all our information): elkmountainassociates.com

Carpentry â&#x20AC;˘ Minor Electrical â&#x20AC;˘ Small Jobs â&#x20AC;˘ Repairs. â&#x20AC;˘ Call Greg: 230-1132 or 258-1107.

Services

Painting

Entertainment

1 DAY ROOM TRANSFORMATION Custom painting, decorative finishes, wallpaper installation/removal. â&#x20AC;˘ 15 years experience. â&#x20AC;˘ Meticulous â&#x20AC;˘ Timely â&#x20AC;˘ Reasonable. Heather, (828) 215-4365. Custom Home Interior Accents.

SERIOUS MUSICIANS WANTED. Affordable, quality photos for your promo and/or album. Package includes up to three hours photoshoot; free online gallery of your photos; CD containing all photos; reasonable travel included. $250.00. Mention this ad and get 50% off. 828-5051877.

Cleaning

Computer

HOUSEKEEPER/PERSONAL ASSISTANT has an opening to work for you. Call (828) 216-4592

COMPUTER SERVICE AT YOUR DOORSTEP We Come To You! â&#x20AC;˘ PC and Mac â&#x20AC;˘ Slow computer? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll speed it up. â&#x20AC;˘ Repairs â&#x20AC;˘ Upgrades â&#x20AC;˘ Networking â&#x20AC;˘ Tutoring.

Senior Citizen/Nonprofit Discounts. Call Christopherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Computers, 828-670-9800.

Member Better Business Bureau of WNC. christopherscomputers.com

YOUR NATURAL CLEANING SOLUTION A superior clean at no cost to your health.

Earth, kid, and pet friendly.

(828) 582-0335

General Services AUTHENTIC ITALIAN LIME PLASTERING â&#x20AC;˘ STUCCO â&#x20AC;˘ Venetian â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Greenâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ Residential â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Crown molding. â&#x20AC;˘ 30 years Asheville area. Cal Perry for details: (828) 301-2323 or 258-2443. â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ See Venetian Plaster base coat demo (under Products): www.earthpaint.net

Business Health Insurance is a valuable defense against costly medical expenses.

Looking for affordable Health Insurance? For a Free no obligation Quote visit www.NC-SmartInsurance.com or call Bruce at 828-775-2828.

Heirloom Quality Homebuilding & Custom Woodworking Cabinetry and Fine Furniture Making Utilizing Local, Ecologically Sound Materials

DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE: For sale. Renovated 1,227 sqft office building. $259,900. Call G/M Property Group, 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com

ELDERLY CAREGIVER Mature Woman looking for work helping elderly person with needs at home.

Responsible and honest.

Please call Linda at 828628-0666.

HOME HEALTH AIDE/ CAREGIVER with Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience and hospice reference letter, nonsmoker, seeks live-in position. Call Arnold, (828) 273-2922.

Kitchen & Bath

COMMERCIAL FOR SALE â&#x20AC;˘ Heart of downtown, 1436 sqft offices in point of historic Flat Iron Building, $319,000. â&#x20AC;˘ Downtown, old fashioned building w/character on busy 0.25 acre corner, $980,000. â&#x20AC;˘ Gateway to Broadway Corridor, 3 buildings, 2 lots, home to many new developments, $1,650,000. â&#x20AC;˘ Black Mountain, office building on West Street w/ owner financing, $395,000.

The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

Commercial Listings

Commercial Property

DOWNTOWN/CHARLOTTE ST â&#x20AC;˘ OFFICE ZONING $485,000. This 2 story has 3400+ sqft, large meeting rooms, kitchen, lounge, 8 offices, updated electric and HVAC, large deck, off-street parking. Many original architectural features remain. Owner/broker.

MLS#426900. Call (828) 255-7530. appalachianrealty.com NICE SUBURBAN OFFICES South of Airport, Hwy 280.

4,400 sqft. freestanding building. Possible home office. Cheap, $92/sqft. $395K. NAIBH Comm.

258-6379

CENTRALLY LOCATED PROFESSIONAL OFFICE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 26 NORTH LIBERTY STREET Corner lot with off-street parking. 1918-built converted residence featuring 3,089 sqft + basement storage.

Configured with private offices, conference room and reception area. Separate entrance to upper floor provides opportunity for apartment or second office. $649,000. Call Russ Towers, Lewis Real Estate 828-274-2479. lewisrealestatenc.com

Business Rentals $10/NNN â&#x20AC;˘ TUNNEL ROAD ANCHOR SPACE! Great space for medical/professional office .

Completely modernized for dental care. Also suitable for walk-in clinic or other service oriented business.

Easy access with ample parking. Close proximity to VA Hospital. Approximately 3500 sqft, one level with client and separate service entrance. Contact (828) 215-9823 for details.

79,*0:065 EARTHWORKS

Built to Last

828-779-2119 brookshire.woodworking@gmail.com

ARTIST STUDIO Near Biltmore Village.

Live/work possible. $675/month.

(828) 216-6066 ARTISTS STUDIO Space for rent in North Asheville off Merrimon Avenue. 200-plus.

200-plus sqft., $275/month, Call Ray at 828-254-3415, AVAILABLE â&#x20AC;˘ DOWNTOWN OFFICE SPACE Historic Miles Building. Carpet, AC, almostnew paint, window views, great building tenants, utilities included. â&#x20AC;˘ You choose: Either 280 sqft single room for $370/month â&#x20AC;˘ or 430 sqft double room for $575/month. Six-month lease. â&#x20AC;˘ E-mail inquiries with references to rental@mountainx.com BE ON TUNNEL ROAD! High traffic count with great location and convenience to downtown and East Asheville. $650/month. Call (828) 215-2865 for showings.

COMMERCIAL RENTALS â&#x20AC;˘ Downtown, Lexington Station 1500 sqft w/courtyard, $2000/month NNN. â&#x20AC;˘ North Asheville, basement level of Sherwin Williams building, 6500 sqft, $3000/month. â&#x20AC;˘ Candler, new 2000+ sqft bldg on busy corner perfect for restaurant, $2500/month. â&#x20AC;˘ Arden, nice 672 sqft office, great location, possible live/work, $595/month. The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE: For lease. Retail and office suites, 222 to 2,964 sqft.

Very prominent locations.

Call G/M Property Group, 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com CLINGMAN LOFTS

Fine Grading and Site Preparation Complete Landscape Design/Installation â&#x20AC;˘ E x c av at i o n â&#x20AC;˘ Roads â&#x20AC;˘ Wate r Ha r v e s t i n g / Management â&#x20AC;˘ Ston e w or k â&#x20AC;˘ Outdoor Rooms â&#x20AC;˘ Wate r Fe atu r e s â&#x20AC;˘ Renewable Energ y

P r e c i s i o n @ e a rt h a v e n . o r g Jeremy Brookshire

AFFORDABLE â&#x20AC;˘ BRAND NEW! Be the first at Bent Creek Knoll on busy Brevard Road! Great space options and visibility with high traffic count. 1250 sqft, priced from $1250. Owner/broker: 215-9823.

Brandon Greenstein â&#x20AC;˘ Paul Caron (828) 664-9127 | 301-7934 Co-Creating Your Natural Landscape

mountainx.com

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â&#x20AC;˘ JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

65

DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE Office space in historic building at 50 College Street.

Available June 1. 3300 sqft heated, upfitted for office @ $14/sqft. Elevator. City parking garage adjacent.

Original oak woodwork, marble entrance stair, windows in all work spaces.

Call 254-4778, ext. 35.

DOWNTOWN CORNER: (1) Loft Manhattan style brick/wood private Biltmore Ave. entrance office and/or apartment w/kitchen, bath, storage & parking. $1,500/month +; (2) Small office brick & private entrance w/kitchen & bath $400/month +. Both available NOW. Bernie, 828 230-0755.

DOWNTOWN OFFICE SPACE For lease. Above City Bakery, Biltmore Avenue. 785+/sqft. Natural light. Spacious.

253-1124 or info@ sycamorepartners.net DOWNTOWN SMALL OFFICE • Historic Wilson Building.

13 1/2 Eagle Street. High ceilings, hardwood floors, great light, great community of small businesses. Starting at $275/month, utilities included. Jesse Plaster 828-230-1726.

Rentals

Apartments For Rent MONTFORD OFFICE SPACE Historic Montford Corner Cottage. Ample off-street parking. Two suites available. 1,150 sf @ $1,700/month & 600 sf @ $700/month. Utilities included. Call Lewis Real Estate, 828-274-2479. www.lewisrealestatenc.com NICE SUBURBAN OFFICES South of Airport, Hwy 280.

4,400 sqft. freestanding building. Possible office/livein. Approximately $3,000/month.

HENDERSONVILLE ROAD Close to Asheville. Deluxe suite of offices, 160, 280 sqft. Ample parking. Cheap!

828-216-6066.

LIVE-IN ARTIST STUDIONear Biltmore Village. 1,000 sqft +Cheap! $675. 216-6066.

RIVER DISTRICT 6,000 sqft shell - artists; flexible uses.

Owner will upfit for Class A office. Call G/M Property Group, 828-281-4024. jmenk@gmproperty.com

$325/MONTH CANTON; $450/MONTH CANDLER Nice, renovated 1BR apartments; minutes from downtown Asheville. No smoking; no pets. Call (828) 337-5447.

1 FREE MONTH! (w/contract) • Walk to everything downtown, live, work and play! • Studio: $545/month. • 1BR: $650/month.

Water/heat included. Call 254-2029. APM. 1 MONTH FREE RENT* Escape to the woods today!

South Asheville. Apartment living in a park-like setting. * Call (828) 274-4477. freewebs.com/woodsedge Woods Edge Apartments 1-2BR, 1-1.5BA, SOUTH, Skyland Heights,* 2nd month free*, $555-$655/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 1-2BR, 1-2BA, ARDEN, Glen Beale, *2nd month free*, $585-$685/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com

1BR • MONTFORDHardwood floors, spacious living and dining room + private front porch in 1920’s building. $650/month includes water and laundry.

No dogs. 1 cat ok with fee.

Year lease, security, credit check required. For appointment: Elizabeth Graham: 828-253-6800.

1BR, 1BA, DOWNTOWN, Asheville Hotel, above Malaprops, wood floors, $1,175/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR, 1BA, NORTH, 346 MONTFORD, coin-op laundry, fireplace, $565 $595/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 1BR, 1BA, NORTH, 365 Weaverville, w/d hookups, $485/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 1ST CALL US! Studio, 1 and 2BR apartments from $425$800. Pet friendly.

(828) 251-9966.

Alpha-Real-Estate.com 1ST FLOOR • KENILWORTH 2BR, 1BA. Clean and sunny.

Woodfloors, central AC, WD, DW. Storage, 2 car garage, patio, fenced yard. $850/month. Pets considered. (828) 242-1233.

2 BLOCKS TO MISSION HOSPITAL Nice 1BR, 1BA with hardwood floors throughout. Off-street parking. Heat and water furnished. Washer and dryer available. Small storage area included. $600/month with $600 security. Contact Tom, 828-230-7296.

A F F OR DA BL E R E N TA L S

LARGE INVENTORY OF RENTALS WITH 6 MONTH & 1 YEAR LEASES

Great Rentals in West Asheville, North Asheville, Woodfin, Black Mountain & Hendersonville NOR TH MOBILES LIKE NEW A S HEV ILLE

ACCEPTING SECTION 8 NOW! In quiet, very nice park.

TO W NH OUSE S

3BR, 2BA. ............................ $ 6 2 5 / M O NTH 2BR, 2BA. .......................... $61 5 / M O NTH

Off Merrimon Ave.

1 BR/1 BA ............... $495

BLACK MOUNTAIN

2BR/1 BA ................ $525 3BR/1BA ................. $625 Walking distance to town, incl. water

2 BR, 1BA apartment.

Heat pump with central air, washer/dryer connections.

Also includes water.

$625/MONTH

HENDERSONVILLE

2-3BR,1-2BA, NORTH, 81 LAKESHORE, a/c, coin-op laundry, deck, $675$725/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1-2BA, HENDERSONVILLE, 2010 LAUREL PARK, coin-op laundry, $525/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1.5BA, HENDERSONVILLE, 902 Hillcrest, **2nd. month free*, $575/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA, EAST, 453 KENILWORTH, a/c, w/d hookups, dishwasher, $610/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA, EAST, 7-9 LINDSEY, a/c, w/d hookups, $610/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA, EAST, 119 Liberty, a/c, w/d hookups, $625/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 1BA, SOUTH, 1020 Hendersonville, a/c, storage, carport, $705/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 2.5BA, EAST, 742 BEE TREE, a/c, w/d hookups, deck, $675/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 2BA, ARDEN, 8207 Terra, AC, W/D hookups, $750/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, 2BA, CENTRAL, 484 Windswept, w/d hookups, fireplace, view, $850/month, 828-693-8069, www.leslieandassoc.com 2BR, BA, EAST, 7 Violet Hills, wood floors, $595/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com

ACCEPTING SECTION 8 NOW! Mobiles like new.

In quiet, very nice park. • 3BR, 2BA, $625/month. • 2BR, 2BA, $615/month.

(828) 252-4334.

ACTON WOODS APARTMENTS • Beautiful 2BR, 2BA, loft, $850/month.

• 2BR, 2BA, $750. Include gas log fireplace, water, storage. 828-253-0758.

Carver Realty ARTISTICALLY REMODELED 2BR, 1BA basement with lots of light in peaceful Haw Creek neighborhood, minutes from town. WD connection. • Non-smoking.

• Pets considered. $600/month. Deposit.

References. (828) 768-2998.

BEAVERDAM • NORTH ASHEVILLE Off Beaverdam Road near UNCA. Furnished, quiet 1BR, sitting room, complete kitchen. No smokers/pets. $650/month includes all utilities.

281-1245.

DESIRABLE MONTFORD 2BR, 1BA. 900 sq.ft. Wood floors, new paint in and out, great neighborhood. $705/month + 1st and last month rent. 828-776-7464.

DOWNTOWN CORNER: (1) Loft Manhattan style brick/wood private Biltmore Ave. entrance office and/or apartment w/kitchen, bath, storage & parking. $1,500/month +; (2) Small office brick & private entrance w/kitchen & bath $400/month +. Both available NOW. Bernie, 828 230-0755.

GET QUALITY RESULTS! I received calls from a lot of high quality renters, as opposed to other publications I’ve tried. I will continue to advertise with Mountain Xpress. Patricia H. You too, can find the ideal renter, just call us! (828) 251-1333. Mountain Xpress Classified Marketplace.

SECTION 8 WELCOME FREE Microwave with new lease!

Creekside Crossing Apartments • Brand New Apartment Site 450 West Street, Spindale, NC • 55+ or 45+ (if disabled or physically challenged) • Certified Energy Star units allows for 5% discount on electricity

1BR, 1BA apar ment with new berber carpet. Small deck with sliding glass door. Walking distance to Main Street. Includes water.

Come by and meet Kathy, our new manager, and learn about other specials!

$4 2 5 / M O NTH

(828) 288-3738

MONTFORD Very nice 2BR, 1BA apartment in historic building. Hardwood floors, lots of windows. Great location! Private porch. Big yard. $875/month, plus utilities. 712-1675.

NEW, LARGE 1BR, 1BA APARTMENT in quiet Kenilworth. Minutes from downtown Asheville and mall. $950/month includes cable, internet, W/D, dishwasher, central AC, storage. Private yard and entrance. Call (828) 606-2562.

NORTH FOREST APARTMENTS 2BR, 2BA. Beautiful complex, built 2002. Safe and secure.

Close to I-26/UNCA, North Asheville. $650/month.

778-6809. www.delkandson.com SOUTH ASHEVILLE • 2BR, 1BA. Large kitchen with all appliances. Water and trash included. Credit check. o Pets. $665/month.

828-230-1980.

Mobile Homes For Rent ACCEPT SECTION 8 West Asheville. 2BR, 2BA. Like new. Includes water. Heat pump, central air, W/D connections. In nice park. $615/month.

828-252-4334.

EMAIL: WNCRENTALS@YAHOO.COM

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JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 •

mountainx.com

Equal Housing Opportunity! Disability accessible units.

Professionally managed by Partnership Property Management, an equal opportunity employer and provider.

$1800/MONTH Lease/purchase in Lexington Station downtown development. 3BR, 2BA penthouse high-end unit.

Also available for $545,000.

The Real Estate Center, (828) 255-4663. www.recenter.com

1 MONTH FREE! (on 12 month lease) on 2BR, 2BA condos. • Only $899/month.

• Only $350 security deposit. A beautiful community with fitness center, pool, playground, business center, and car wash. • • Hurry, special ends July 31, 2009. Call Seasons at Biltmore Lake (828) 670-9009 for more details or visit: www.ownseasons.com 2BR • 2BA • LEXINGTON STATION CONDO $1400/month. Secure parking, woodfloors, private balcony. Great downtown location near the Orange Peel and Vigne! The Real Estate Center, (828) 2554663. www.recenter.com A BIG THANX! “Thanx Xpress! The recent rental ad attracted a steady stream of quality applicants, thanks to your quality publication.”

Mark K. • You too can find quality renters by placing an affordable ad in the pages of Mountain Xpress Classified Marketplace: 251-1333.

The area’s largest selection of Rental Homes under one roof.

Tel: (828) 650-6880 Toll Free (800) 789-1135 x 6880 PO Box 580, 2602 Hendersonville Road, Arden, NC 28704

www.tonsofrentals.com

We’ve Got Your Home!

Asheville Property Management NORTH:

• 5/3.5, large Cape Cod, bsmt, $1900.

• 2/1 Carport, electric heat, $675.

• Mobile Homes $500 - $650.

• 2/1 home, large porch, $750.

• 3/2 doublewide, private lot, large deck, $850 WEAVERVILLE: • 2/2, 1750 sqft, sunroom, gas logs, pool & clubhouse.

• 3/2 doublewide, private lot near N. Buncombe rec center, $850.

SOUTH: • 3/2 quiet neighborhood, large yard, $1,225.

CANDLER: • 3/2 in country, hardwood floors, water, $750.

ASHEVILLE: • 2/2 hd flrs, private lot, close to town, $950.

WEST:

Mon. - Fri. 9am - 4pm

CALL AAA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, LLC 828.252.4334

Condos/ Townhomes For Rent

• 4/2.5 home, large fenced yard, some hd, $1,400.

• 2/2 home, quiet neighborhood, Leicester, $900.

• 3/2 hardwood flrs, gas heat, quiet area, $850.

• Mobile Homes $500 - $650.

Pet friendly

Call for details: (828) 254-2229 www.ashevillepropertymanagement.net

3BR, 2.5BA, NORTH, 5 Foxwood, a/c, garage, view, $1,095/month, 828-6938069, www.leslieandassoc.com

ASHEVILLE DOWNTOWN LOFT Award-winning contemporary loft with great light and finished with all high-end appointments.

Texas stack gas fireplace, high ceilings with exposed beams, marble bath, bidet, custom cabinets. A great space to make your home. $1500/month 828-242-5456 or mrsmawest@yahoo.com DOWNTOWN LUXURY CONDO • 52 Biltmore Ave. 2BR, 2BA, SE corner. 10 large windows, 12” ceilings.

Exposed brick, top quality throughout. 3 years old. $1,900/month. Bright Star Realty. 828-301-8033.

DOWNTOWN LUXURY CONDOS Brand new loft in historic 52 Biltmore Avenue Building. 1BR, 1.5BA with 250 sqft 2nd floor mezzanine. Gourmet kitchen, oak floors, exposed brick, modular lighting, large windows, W/D, concrete, granite, stone, stainless upgrades. Indoor parking.

Best Downtown location; walk to anything. $1,250/month. Year lease.

828-301-8033 or 954-6841300. Oxford Ventures NORTH ASHEVILLE TOWNHOUSE In safe, quiet neighborhood of working professionals and retirees.

Close to MAHEC, UNCA, and downtown. 3BR, 2.5BA, full kitchen, WD, central heat/AC, gas fireplace. Private terrace. Lots of storage, 2 assigned parking spaces. No smoking. $950/month.

Deposit, 1 year lease.

Available now. Call: JD Jackson at (828) 258-2222 or 1-800-232-0199.

WEST ASHEVILLE Canterbury Heights, 46 and 48 Beri Drive. Newly renovated, 2BR, 1.5BA, 3level condos, 918 sqft. Pool, fitness center. $725/month.

Mike 919-624-1513

3BR, 2BA, WEST, 7 Spring, a/c, w/d hookups, deck, $895/month, 828-253-1517, www.leslieandassoc.com 4BR, 2BA, EAST, 179 CHUNNS COVE, a/c, w/d hookups, large yard, $1,065/month, 828-6938069, www.leslieandassoc.com 5BR, 2BA WEST ASHEVILLE • $1750/month + security deposit. View pix and description at: asheville.craigslist.org/apa/1 279495558.html. Available ASAP. gsendrino@yahoo.com ADORABLE WEST AVL BUNGALOWALL AREAS HOUSES FOR RENT. Browse thousands of rental listings with photos and maps.

Advertise your rental home for free! Visit: www.RealRentals.com (AAN CAN) APARTMENT DUPLEX IN ASHEVILLE 1BR, 2nd Floor, huge bedroom with large closet and mountain view.

Heat pump, AC, built-in microwave, washer and drier space. Freshly remodeled, new floor coverings and more. Located 5 minutes to downtown Asheville country setting. Pet friendly, $595/month. Available August 15. (828) 275-3651.

ASHEVILLE AREA RENTALS $550-$1950/month. • 1East. • 3-West. • 3-North. • 3-South. • Century 21 Mountain Lifestyles: (828) 684-2640, ext 17. For more details: www.KristieFrizsell.com

employment FANTASTIC SALUDA HOME Post-and-Beam house near Saluda, NC. 3 levels. 2BR. 3BA. New stainless appliances. New showers.

Hardwood floors. Granite counters. 4 private acres w/views. Owner/Broker.

Annual lease $2,000/month.

Leave message: 828-243-9937.

HAW CREEK • Near school. $1100/month. 3BR, 2BA, living/dining room, family room/office, 2 sets gas logs.

Full basement with workshop and rec room.

Covered front porch and back deck. W/D, disposal, gas heat, window AC. 828298-5113.

15 MINUTES TO ASHEVILLE North Buncombe. Sunny 3BR, 2BA, wrap around deck, small workshop, basement. Yard. Quiet country setting. Single car garage. $950/month.

423-5160.

AWARD WINNING HOME Lease or lease purchase.

Walk to downtown/Montford Historic District. Restored 4BR, 3BA Victorian: Hardwood floors, private patio/porch, full basement and open third floor loft space. Available September 1. • 6 month lease, $2200/month, (Includes lawn service). Owner/Broker. Call (828) 254-6270 or email: ashevillerentals@ gmail.com

NORTH ASHEVILLE Beautiful 2BR, 1BA house with 1/2 acre fenced backyard. Full unfinished basement. Pets allowed. $1,200/month. Call Bob, (828) 259-9328.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE PLUS QUALITY HOME IN ONE Near Asheville Chamber of Commerce. Has “billboard” signage seen from Interstate I-240. On site parking. Handicapped accessible. Rare combination of flexible design to meld a successful business with a very comfortable home.

2300 sqft for $1950/month.

Can sublease. Contact: Doug (828) 777-6746.

OFF THE HOOK! We got a great response from our ad for our Rental house in the Mountain Xpress!

The phone rang off the hook! Thanks, Ander, owner, Design Painting.

Get your Apartment or House rented quickly and affordably. Call (828) 251-1333. Mountain Xpress Classified Marketplace.

1ST CALL US! 2, 3 and 4BR homes from $600-2000. • Pet friendly. (828) 251-9966 Alpha-Real-Estate.com

CANDLER 2BR, $525/month.

Call 828-253-0758. Carver Realty

REEMS CREEK VALLEY Unique 2BR, 2BA plus • upstairs apartment.

Hardwood floors, granite counter tops and Aga stove in spacious kitchen, solar hot water. Easy access (25 minutes) to Asheville. • Be part of an organic farm with beautiful gardens, creeks and ponds. 100 acres of protected forest for hiking. $1200/month. Call (828) 658-9397 and leave message.

2BR, 1BA • CHUNNS COVE DUPLEX $750/month. Call (828) 253-0758. Carver Realty

CENTRAL OFF MERRIMON 2BR, 1BA. $775. Carver Realty. 253-0758.

REEMS CREEK, MUNDY COVE 3BR, 2BA, $900/month. Call (828) 2530758. Carver Realty

1BR, 1BA • EAST Elevated cottage on the Swannanoa River. • Huge REdeck, NTEDcovered parking. Convenient.

• Great neighbors, pet friendly. $560/month.

(828) 215-4596.

BILTMORE PARK. 4BR, 2.5 BA, 2,200 sqft, Rent for $2,300. Carver Realty, 828253-0758.

SOUTH, DEANWOOD 3BR, 2BA, $1,200/month. Call (828) 253-0758. Carver Realty WEAVERVILLE AREA • 3BR, 2BA house in older subdivision. Gas furnace, central air. Fireplace, large fenced backyard. Garage. No smokers. $975/month, year lease. 776-4976 or 6490013.

HOUSES FOR RENT • Browse thousands of rental listings with photos and maps. Advertise your rental home for free. Visit http://www.RealRentals.com.

(AAN CAN)

Homes For Rent 1 BLOCK TO UNCA Really nice neighborhood! Woodfin bungalow, 2BR, 1BA, completely updated. $700/month includes water.

(828) 645-4555 or 713-7606.

SOUTH OAK FORREST 4BR, 2BA $1,750. Call Carver Realty 828-253-0758.

WEST ASHEVILLE • 3BR, 2.5BA Hardwoods, tile, carpet, granite. Stainless steel and ENERGY STAR appliances. W/D hookups.

Front porch and private, wooded back deck. 2-car garage. Great for family. 5 minutes from downtown Asheville. $1,650/month. Call Lisa: 828-808-2651.

WEST ASHEVILLE, 22 Tremont St. 3 BR, 1 BA, stove, refrigerator, basement $700/Mo, 1 Yr lease, $500 deposit Credit Check. Call 828/685-0256 to see inside WEST ASHEVILLE • 2BR, 1BA bungalow. 10 minute walk from Haywood Rd. Available August 1. Large basement and detached shed for extra storage. $850/month. Ted, 828-2557923.

Vacation Rentals BEAUTIFUL LOG CABIN Sleeps 5, handicap accessible. Near Warren Wilson College, Asheville, NC. (828) 231-4504 or 2771492. bennie14@bellsouth.net

Roommates Asheville - 4 Blocks from City Upscale Room for a quiet professional that enjoys a serene place to reside. $450/month. Call for pics. 828-781-1499.

Bungalow in W. Asheville Looking for quiet, meditative, clean female. W/D, WiFi, storage, organic garden. $400+1/2 utilites. Walk to Haywood Rd. 828-776-7996 Kristin.

Country living, Barnardsville, 30 minutes from Asheville. 1BR, W/D. Pets possible. 4-wheel drive needed. $350/month, utilities included. Nonsmoker. Jeff, 626-3009 or 231-0372.

Female Seeks Same Prefer quiet, clean, employed roomie. Share 3BR, 2.5BA house. Quiet neighborhood with lots of hiking nearby, view, cat/dog friendly. 828230-2517. Weaverville.

House Share Peaceful, spacious home in Kenilworth, near town. Ideal for female student or professional. Cozy bedroom, furnished. $400+utils. 2512118.

House Sitter Student, single Mom, employed, responsible, and very clean, looking for house sitter position while I attend school. Please call (404) 226-0317.

Like to hike, garden, cook?

Oakley. Remodeled kitchen, large garden, 5-min walk to hiking. Share w/mother, 6 year old, 2 pets. $350/month August 1st. 828-273-2402.

Looking for Responsible, Quiet Roommate share 3BR home. No pets but dog friendly. Furnished BR, private area downstairs. $550/month includes utilities, wireless internet and Direct TV. 828-216-1722 Oakley A/C., W/D. internet, close to bus. $300/month plus half utilities. Mike, 828215-0965.

RENTMATES.COM • Browse hundreds of online listings with photos and maps. Find your roommate with a click of a mouse! Visit http://www.rentmates.com.

(AAN CAN) Room for Rent With bath.

Quiet. Between airport Brevard. No pets, smokers. $500/month includes utilities. Penny 828-778-9937.

Roommate Needed South Asheville $450/month. 3BR, 2BA home behind OnTarget. I am hardly ever home.

Looking for organized, mindful, neat person.

Michelle 828-713-2376.

Roommate Wanted Two rooms, 2 miles from downtoan. W/D. $360/month + security deposit and 1/3 utilities. Available 8/1/09.

Michael, 582-2797.

Share a Condo starting August 2BR, 1.5BA. $575 covers rent, utilities, cable, internet, and w/d. On busline. Call Amy 989-3294 or email corniegrl@yahoo.com Two Rooms Available In lovely Oakley home. W/D, large basement, private entrance and bath. One $500/month, 2nd room $400/month, includes all.Have dog/no more please.

Community minded, mature, happy, healthy lifestyle, respectful. kaya26@juno.com Two Rooms in Great House • Richmond Hill Inn area, 7 minutes to town. $400/month + $320 plus dep. 777-9271.

West Asheville Home Share 2-room suite with private entrance, bathroom, and deck, $500 includes utilities, share with friendly, vegetarian, progressive man 50s, Keith 553-5185.

West Asheville 3BR, 2BA home. Walking distance to shops, restaurants and bus line. W/D. $425/month plus 1/3 utilities. $425 deposit required. 828-423-9853.

West Asheville Quiet neighborhood near 240 entrance off of Haywood.

Looking for a laid back, dog friendly person to share a quaint/clean two bedroom house. Responsible female preferred. $350 a month plus utilities & deposit. Room available Sept. 828-7133868.

Haw Creek Home. 5 minutes to Asheville. Large BA and fireplace in the room.

Separate entrance. Secluded setting on 3 acres. Private, quiet . $575/month includes everything. August 15. katann75@gmail.com or 828 299 0087

Employment

General $$$ HELP WANTED $$$.

Earn extra income assembling CD cases from home. Call our live operators now! 1-800-405-7619, ext.

150. www.easyworkgreatpay.com (AAN CAN) $$$HELP WANTED$$$ • Earn extra income assembling CD cases from home. Call our live operators now. 800-405-7619 ext.

150. www.easywork-great pay.com. (AAN CAN) $600 WEEKLY POTENTIAL $$$ helping the government part-time. No experience, no selling. Call 1-888-2135225. Ad Code L-5. VOID in Maryland and South Dakota.

(AAN CAN) A STYLIST • No harmful chemicals; just a sound, organic, and pleasant, professional environment.

Full-time. Must be experienced, skilled, selfmotivated. • Commission based on clientele. The Water Lily Wellness Salon, 7 Beaverdam Road. 505-3288. thewaterlily@mac.com ANIMAL CARE ATTENDANT • Humane Society seeks dedicated and dependable person for care of shelter animals. Requires hard work and sincere commitment to animal welfare. Provides adoption consultations to ensure proper animal placement, assists general public with questions about animal care and behavior.

Good customer service skills and interest in working with the public a must. Must demonstrate low absenteeism and be able to work weekends and holidays. Apply in person. 72 Lee’s Creek Road, Asheville.

BOMBARDED WITH CALLS! “We’ve literally been bombarded with calls from the employment ads we’ve placed in Mountain Xpress.

It’s allowed us to carefully screen our applicants to find just the right employees that help our business grow.”

Shay Amber, Manager, Pristine Clean. • What more can we say? Mountain Xpress Classifieds get results! Call 251-1333 Get results and grow your business!

CAB DRIVERS Needed at Blue Bird; call JT 258-8331.

Drivers needed at Yellow Cab; call Buster at 2533311.

FIND QUALITY EMPLOYEES FAST! We found more than a dozen highly qualified job applicants in less than a week with just a single classified ad in the Mountain Express. • Chris Dennen, PhD, President of Innovative Healing Inc. • Your business can quickly and affordably find the right employee. Call 251-1333, Mountain Xpress Marketplace!

HIRE QUALITY EMPLOYEES “Our employment advertisements with the Mountain Xpress garner far more educated and qualified applicants than any other publication we have used.

The difference is visible in the phone calls, applications and resumes.” Howard Stafford, Owner, Princess Anne Hotel. • Thank you, Howard. Your business can benefit by advertising for your next employee in Mountain Xpress Classifieds.

Call 251-1333.

HOUSEKEEPERS Year-round consistent employment, Asheville. Professional, reliable and responsible.

Full-time and part-time for upscale B&B. Must be flexible and able to work weekends. Background check required. Call 828254-3878 for interview.

Black Walnut Bed And Breakfast Inn.

Help Others while

Helping Yourself

DONATE PLASMA, EARN COMPENSATION Plasma Biological Services (828) 252-9967 interstatebloodbank.com

mountainx.com

• JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

67

SALES PROS • Time to get paid what you are worth AND have a life. Call 1-888-700-4916.

Restaurant/ Food PRODUCTION WORKERS NEEDED Recruiting “production workers” for first shift, four 10 hour days, Monday-Thursday. $9/hour.

Training provided for those that qualify. Apply online www.snelling.com/ asheville/application TOUR GUIDE If you are a “people person” with a passion for Asheville and have a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), you could be a great Gray Line Trolley tour guide! Training provided.

Part-time or full-time.

Contact Elaine at (828) 251-8687 or elaine@ graylineasheville.com WORK FROM HOME • 29 serious people to work from home using a computer. Up to $1,500-$5,000, pt/ft. financialsecurity123.com

Administrative/ Office RECEPTIONIST OFFICE ASSISTANT • Part time opportunity for an individual with exceptional phone skills, pleasant professional voice and attitude, outstanding interpersonal skills, and ability to accurately capture and record all caller information in written form. Successful candidate will also have superior keyboard skills with PC literacy. Familiarity with multi-terminal phone system, Windows, Word and basic PC software a must.

One year experience in a service setting with intense customer interactions, knowledge of ACT!, Excel & Outlook preferred. For immediate consideration send resume with cover letter mail to Jobs@onewhoserves.com EOE.

Sales/ Marketing ASHEVILLE BASED GREEN BUILDING BUSINESS • Entry level position. Start at $9.00/hour w/raises based on performance. Two week training period at $7/hour with required reading that is unpaid. Applicant must be a multi-tasker, comfortable talking to public, self motivated, energetic, attentive to detail and able to lift up to 60 lbs. Skills required: Strong PC experience, Internet savvy, construction knowledge and experience, phone. Software: Quickbooks, Office, Adobe.

Video resume preferred but pdf is acceptable. No other formats. Email to greenjob3939@gmail.com HAVE FUN, CHANGE THE WORLD, MAKE MONEY. The Carolina Purple Pages, the LGBT Friendly City Guide and Business Directory, is expanding and needs more team members. We’re looking for energetic, LGBT Friendly people with great communication skills. If this sounds like a good fit for you, please e-mail your resume to Bethany@carolinapurplepag es.com.

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“150 CALLS! At some point, I was hoping they’d stop!

The best vehicle for finding quality employees, and advertising your business.”

Russell, The Skyclub. Your business can benefit with low cost, efficient advertising. Call 251-1333.

Mountain Xpress Marketplace Classifieds.

APOLLO FLAME • WAITSTAFF Full-time needed. Fast, friendly atmosphere. Apply in person between 2pm-4pm, 485 Hendersonville Road.

274-3582.

CHEF NEEDED IN BLACK MOUNTAIN Casual Fine Dining Restaurant looking for full-time chef. Experience preferred. Call 230-2750.

EXPERIENCED WAIT STAFF For busy downtown Asheville restaurant. 6am-2pm and 8am-4pm shift. • Apply in person, 2pm-4pm, 57 College Street. 258-0476.

Mediterranean Restaurant.

HOSTESS Now hiring. Apply in person: 2 Hendersonville Road, Biltmore Station, Asheville. 252-7885. Ichiban Japanese Steak House MOUNTAIN X JAMS! As a growing business that relies on the face put forward by our employees, Mountain Xpress Classifieds is where we turn to find them. The volume of high-quality applicants replying to our ads can be hard to choose from, and it is always worth our investment. Thanks Mountain X! Rebecca and Charlie, owners, Tomato Jam Cafe.

Hotel/ Hospitality LUXURY B&B POSITIONS • Resident Assistant Innkeeper, Onsite furnished apartment available in exchange for monitoring emergency call (10pm 8am). • B&B Assistant second shift: (4pm-10pm) • Housekeepers. Inquiries and resume: brenharr@aol.com

Retail NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS SPECIALIST Full-Time. Kerr Drug is looking for an in-store natural and organic product coordinator for our Patton Avenue location.

Applicants must have knowledge about natural and alternative products and believe in living a healthy lifestyle. Experience in the natural products industry is a plus; experience working with customers, ordering of products and managing resources in a retail environment is required.

Come join the excitement as we grow our business of providing natural and organic products for living a healthy lifestyle. Must be available to work a flexible retail schedule.

Qualified candidates fax resumes and salary requirements to: Dennis Seeney at (828) 236-3328.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 •

Medical/ Health Care CNA’s PART-TIME WEEKEND Positions available 1st and 2nd Shift Come join a Great Nursing Team! We offer: • Competitive new wage scale • Excellent benefits • Paid time off • Holiday pay • Direct deposit • 401(k) with company match. Asheville Healthcare Center. To apply, call or email resume to: Tim Sparks, Human Resource Manager: 298-2214. tsparks@mfa.net DIETARY AIDE Full-time.

Experience in Food Service in a skilled nursing facility preferred. We offer: • Competitive wage scale • Excellent benefits • Paid time off • Holiday pay • 401(k) with company match.

Asheville Healthcare Center.

Call or email resume to: Tim Sparks, 298-2214 or tsparks@mfa.net ENROLLMENT SPECIALIST Access II Care seeks FT position to coordinate patient eligibility screening, enrollment & health access navigation. Min. high school diploma. Exp. w/ serving uninsured and underinsured populations preferred.

Spanish speaking preferred.

Resume and cover ltr to: hr@accessiicare-wnc.org or fax: 828-259-3875.

MEDICAL CASE MANAGER. Access II Care seeks FT Medical Case Mgr to work w/uninsured patients in Madison/Yancey/Mitchell Co. Bilingual English/Spanish and RN or SW w/2 year min.

CM exp. preferred. No call, no weekends, competitive salary. Resume and cover letter to: hr@accessiicare-wnc.org

Human Services ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR/COUNSELOR • Part time position at a Residential Program for Women. Visit www.tapestrync.com. If interested email scarlson@ appcounseling.com DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Full-time to manage fundraising for a dynamic organization that helps people across WNC build economic opportunities through business development and capital. Complete job description and application information at mountainbizworks.org. rachel@ mountainbizworks.org DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL For more information: (828) 299-3636.

Mountain Area Residential Facilities, Inc. FAMILIES TOGETHER INC. Currently hiring for Mental Health positions. Please visit our website to find out more information and email resume to sstevenson@ familiestogether.net

mountainx.com

Haywood and Jackson County Psychiatrist Assertive Community Treatment Team: Please contact Joe Ferrara, 828507-1787. Clinician, Haywood County Recovery Education Center Must have Master’s Degree in Human Services Field and be license-eligible. Please contact Jon Esslinger at jon.esslinger@ meridianbhs.org Clinician: Offender Services Program: Must have Master’s Degree in Human Services Field and be license-eligible. Please contact Diane Paige at diane.paige@ meridianbhs.org Haywood County Therapist/Team Leader Child and Family Services Master’s Degree and supervisory experience.

Please contact David Hutchinson at david.hutchinson@ meridianbhs.org Jackson, Macon, Swain County: Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP): Child and Family Services: Must have a Bachelors degree in a human services field and two years post-graduation experience, or a Masters degree. Please contact David Hutchinson at david.hutchinson@ meridianbhs.org Therapist:Child and Family Services (Macon and Jackson): Masters degree required. Please contact David Hutchinson at david.hutchinson@ meridianbhs.org Cherokee, Clay, Graham County: Therapist/Team Leader: Child and Family Services: Masters degree and license eligible. Please contact David Hutchinson at david.hutchinson@ meridianbhs.org • For further information and to complete an application, visit our website: www.meridianbhs.org

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF ASHEVILLE is seeking QMHPs to provide enhanced services for child and adult consumers.

Applicants must have at least 2 years post-degree experience with the MH population. Email csimpson@fpscorp.com

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF HENDERSONVILLE has immediate openings for Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists to provide individual and group therapy to the MH population. Please email resumes to wfhoward@fpscorp.com

FAMILY PRESERVATION SERVICES OF RUTHERFORD CO. • Is seeking a Clinical Director. Applicants must have a Master’s Degree in counseling, social work or related field, NC licensure, clinical experience with adult and child MH population, a minimum of 5 yrs. supervisory experience.

Email resume: sholloway@fpscorp.com JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES, SOCIAL WORKER/ CASE MANAGER: Part-Time Position. The JFS Social Worker provides case management and counseling services to individuals and families at all life stages.

MSW degree, excellent communication and computer skills, flexibility, and minimum two years relevant experience preferred. The JFS Social Worker supports the mission of JFS and the Asheville Jewish Community Center by providing support in a manner consistent with the Jewish values of social responsibility, respect, and caring for one another. Send resume and cover letter to alison@jcc-asheville.org, or Alison Gilreath, JFS Director, 236 Charlotte Street, Asheville NC 28801.

Deadline: July 31, 2009. For information: www.jccasheville.org ONE-TO-ONE SUPPORT • Provide one to one behaviorally based treatment for a beautiful young child with autism. Ideal candidates will have previous experience with typically developing and/or children with special needs. $1419/hr. Reliable transportation a must. send resumes to jennifermbrenner@ hotmail.com PART-TIME DAY SUPPORTS To work with developmentally disabled people. Please apply in person: 147 Coxe Avenue, Asheville, NC. Liberty Corner Enterprises.

SPECIAL EVENTS ASSISTANT Would you like to work part-time for a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help the children and families of Western North Carolina to grow and be successful? Do you have experience in the coordination and management of special events? If so, this might be your dream job! Eliada Homes, Inc. is seeking a special events person who will coordinate with the Director of Development to implement special events, solicit donations, secure sponsorships, and to increase community involvement. This individual will secure, hire, manage, and arrange for the payment of all artists, entertainers, etc. brought in for events.

The Special Events Assistant will contact vendors for bids on resources, supervise volunteers and contract labor at special events, and maintain a weekly and annual special events calendar. The ideal candidate for this position must be organized and a highly skilled communicator, as timely and effective communication with community contacts is required. The position also requires a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field.

Experience in special events and community relations is mandatory, with nonprofit experience a plus! Must possess valid NCDL, and be flexible as the position may require local travel and work on evenings or weekends. All qualified persons please submit your resume to: eweaver@eliada.org or fax to 828-210-0361

Caregivers/ Nanny ASSIST THE ELDERLY Make a difference in the lives of the elderly. Non-medical Companions and Home Helpers needed for weekend and overnight shifts in Asheville and Hendersonville.

Call 713-2952. Home Instead Senior Care.

Professional/ Management BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE • An established, growing Hendersonville-based reconstruction company seeks to add an experienced Business Development executive. Duties to include establishing and working new accounts, continue the development of existing accounts, cold calling and presenting marketing proposals. Must have a polished and professional demeanor accompanied with strong written and verbal skills. Individual must have a strong marketing background. 4 year degree or equivalent is preferred.

This is a full-time salaried position, however, part-time maybe considered.

Interested and qualified candidates should send a copy of their resume to info@thebuildinggroup.net

INSURANCE MANAGEMENT Bankers Life and Casualty Company, one of the largest and most respected companies in the insurance industry is currently seeking individuals interested in entry-level insurance sales positions. Ambition, intelligence, integrity and a strong work ethic will lead qualified individuals into management positions within three months to one year. Our associate managers earn $60,000 to $100,000 per year with top performing managers earning $200,000+. For additional information visit www.bankerslife.com, or please call Rikki Metcalf at (704) 940-1360 to arrange an interview.

Computer/ Technical SYSTEMS ENGINEERS • Our extraordinary serviceoriented team is seeking experienced (minimum 5 years in an outsourced IT environment) professionals who are passionate about technology. Spanish fluency preferred. MCSE a must; CCNA / CCNE strongly preferred. Apply at jobs@onewhoserves.com .

EOE.

Teaching/ Education AFTER SCHOOL COUNSELOR Part-time, $9/hour. Qualified applicants must be creative, energetic, dependable and experienced with children grades K-8.

Duties include planning and leading group games/crafts and homework assistance.

Applicants must be available 3pm-6pm, Monday-Friday and/or Wednesday 12-6pm.

Other schedules will be considered on a substitute basis. ArtSpace Charter School. Email resume to: tami.magidson@ artspacecharter.org EXPERIENCED TEACHER Hiring part-time to create and implement interdisciplinary curriculum for grades 1-3 in a homeschool style learning co-op.

Contact Kathleen at Dylanmaggie@tds.net

Jobs Wanted HOUSE CLEANING. Mature, experienced, trustworthy mother/daughter team looking for housecleaning opportunities. Great rates!

Flexible scheduling and immaculate references. Call for estimate anytime! 828628-0666 or 828-458-8099.

Career Training EARN YOUR MASTER’S DEGREE in Integrated Teaching Through the Arts in Asheville. Close to home and only one weekend a month.

No GRE or MAT required.

Lesley University is America’s top teacher of teachers. Contact Jacinta White at 888-608-8463 or at jwhite14@lesley.edu

Employment Services HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Fast, affordable & accredited. Free brochure.

Call now! 1-800-532-6546 Ext. 97 continentalacademy.com (AAN CAN)

UNDERCOVER SHOPPERS Get paid to shop. Retail and dining establishments need undercover clients to judge quality and customer service. Earn up to $100/day. Please call 1-800-720-0576.

Business Opportunities BEST HOME-BASED BUSINESS EVER! It’s fun; it’s simple; it’s lucrative. To hear 3-minute message, call 1-866-257-3105, code 1.

BIZ OP • Want to purchase minerals and other oil/gas interest. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201 DON’T EVEN THINK! About getting involved in any business until you have heard this CD by Robert Kiyosaki “The Perfect Business”. Get your Free CD: www.TIMEisNOW.me GREEN WELLNESS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY Expanding grass roots effort seeking dedicated people to work from home. Parttime/full-time. Minimal investment required. 1-888458-1670. mybioprohealth@ gmail.com

Announcements ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS in 111 alternative newspapers like this one.

Over 6 million circulation every week for $1200. No adult ads. Call Rick at 202289-8484. (AAN CAN) ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS in 111 alternative newspapers like this one.

Over 6 million circulation every week for $1200. No adult ads. Call Mountain Xpress Classifieds at (828) 251-1333. (AAN CAN) Habitats for Hounds needs old doghouses for chained dogs. We will pick up. Call Peggy at 828-450-7736.

PREGNANT CONSIDERING ADOPTION? • Talk with caring agency specializing in matching birthmothers with families nationwide • Living expenses paid. Call 24/7 • Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions • 1-866-4136293. (AAN CAN) WOMEN, Earn $18k-$30k for 6 egg donations with the largest, most experienced Agency in US. Call: 800-4447119 or to apply online visit: www.theworldeggbank.com (AAN CAN)

Auditions MOVIE EXTRAS NEEDED! All looks and ages wanted. No experience necessary.

Feature films, television, commercials, and prints. $150 - $300/day. Call Now! 1-800-340-8404 x 2001 (AAN CAN) Student Film Actors of all sorts needed. Film will hopefully be submitted to film festival. Will be great fun! Call (828) 775-9121.

Classes & Workshops GESTALT THERAPY: AN INTENSIVE TRAINING SERIES Offered by the Appalachian Gestalt Training Institute (AGTI) in partnership with the Gentle Bio-Energetics Institute. • For professionals and nonprofessionals alike. • Enhance your existing therapy practice using Gestalt theory and techniques • Deepen personal growth, emphasizing whole personal awareness. • 8 Saturday sessions: September 2009May 2010 (60 contact hours). • Location: Gentle Bio-Energetics Institute, Asheville, NC. • Cost: $695.

• For more information regarding training or registration (by August 12), please visit the AGTI website: www.agti.org or call: (828) 508-4539.

LEARN VIETNAMESE/ASIAN COOKING • Tired of the same old food? Learn to prepare healthy and nutritious food. seasiancookingeasy.com

Mind, Body, Spirit

Health & Fitness $20 DETOXIFYING IONIC FOOTBATH • One week only. July 27 - 31. Cleanse harmful toxins from all organs • Relaxing/painless twenty-three minutes while restoring energy and balancing acupuncture meridians. Call 253-7378 for appointment or visit 553 Haywood Road. www.ebfootbath.com • Asheville Chiropractic & Wellness Center.

AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE Sliding scale $20-$40/treatment.

South Asheville near Earth Fare. 5 Allen Avenue, Suite B. (828) 687-8747. www.livingpoints.net

Bodywork

#1 AFFORDABLE MASSAGE CENTER Best rates in town! $29/hour. Therapeutic Massage: • Deep Tissue • Swedish • Sports • Trigger Point. Also offering: • Acupressure • Energy Work • Reflexology • Classes.

Call now for your appointment: • 10 Biltmore Plaza, 505-7088. Asheville. thecosmicgroove.com $35 MASSAGE- On the rare occasion that your life is stressful, I’m offering a massage with the introductory price of $35.

Please call 828-275-5497.

Patty O’Sullivan, LMT# 7113.

ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE MASSAGE! Perfect pressure! Caring, intuitive, professional therapist.

Tranquil sanctuary just 3 blocks from Greenlife & downtown! Reasonable rates, Open Mon thru Sat., 9am to 7 p.m. by appt. only Brett Rodgers LMBT #7557. www.vitalitymassage.net (828) 255-4785.

BEST MASSAGE IN ASHEVILLE Deep tissue, sports massage, Swedish, esalen. Available in/out. Jim Haggerty, LMBT# 7659. Call (828) 545-9700. www.jhmassage.com

HAND DELIVERING GOOD WORK TO HOMEBODIES & BUSYBODIES IN ASHEVILLE I utilize aspects of several modalities and approaches to better facilitate relaxation, moving through energetic blocks, releasing pain and healing.

Travis Jackson, LMBT #4393. 828-772-0719, eyes-of-the-worldmassage@hotmail.com MASSAGE/MLD Therapeutic massage, $45/hour. Manual lymph drainage, $65/hour.

Lymphedema treatment, $45-$65/hour. 15+ years experience. 828-299-4105.

NC License #146. www.uhealth.net

AMR

MEDIA SERVICES Audio and Video Recording of Musical, Instructional and Literary Sources Performance & Public Speaking Enhancement Tools

828-335-9316 • www.amrmediastudio.com

SHOJI SPA & LODGE • 7 DAYS A WEEK Looking for the best therapist in town— - or a cheap massage?

Soak in your outdoor hot tub; experience the invigorating cold plunge; then get the massage of your life! 26 massage therapists.

299-0999. www.shojiretreats.com

ALL STRINGS • ALL AGES • ALL STYLES Neal Crowley, Stringed Instrument Teacher: Classical and Traditional music • Patient • Fun! • Group lessons available. • Jam with other students. • Reasonable rates. • Music for events and private parties. (828) 242-5115. crowleymusic@yahoo.com

STAY RELAXED. Massage therapy at your home/office.

1/2 or 1-hour appointments.

Call Sarah Whiteside, LMBT#4741, (828) 279-1050. sarahsgolf@charter.net

AMR STUDIO Audio mastering, mixing and recording. Musical, literary and instructional services.

Tunable performance room, on-site video available.

(828) 335-9316. amrmediastudio.com

Counseling Services Affordable Counseling.

Liscenced professional counselor 25 years experience, Helping heal childhood issues. Relational conflict. Anxiety, depression.

Anger management.

Substace abuse. Medicaide, BC/BS. Affordable sliding fee. Guy Morganstein at 828-337-7549 BODY-MIND PSYCHOTHERAPY Grief and Loss, Trauma, Men’s Issues, Emotional Release, Personal Growth and Excellence.

Joseph Howard, MSW, LCSW. Affordable rates/Sliding scale.

828-651-8646. josehowardmsw@ yahoo.com

Spiritual MORE THAN HOPE! • ASK NINA Psychic Nina, the Auracle of Asheville: (828) 253-7472 or email: asknina@excite.com

Natural Alternatives HOLISTIC IRIDOLOGY® Fascinating detailed Iris Analysis, Bio-Chemistry Analysis, Cardiovascular Screening, and Meridian Kinesiology for ‘Total Health Assessment’ with effective Natural and Holistic Therapies, BioDetoxification programs, Advanced Energy Healing.

Call Jane Smolnik, ND, Iridologist at (828) 777JANE (5263) for appointment or visit www.UltimateHealing.com

Musicians’ Xchange

AFFORDABLE RECORDING IN ASHEVILLE Special: 8 hours for $140! Awardwinning, radio-quality production. Pro tools, laidback environment. Image consulting, design and photography also at rock bottom prices.

828-413-1145.

6/*7&34*5:

Equipment For Sale Casio Keyboard WK-110 Like new. Stand, music book, foot pedal, excellent sounds, 828-296-0423 $140 obo.

Ibanez Classical GA60SECE electric/acoustic for sale or trade - $200 Call 508-0573 or email ehyall86@charter.net New Martin OM 21 Special Beautiful rosewood Orchestra size vintage model with upgrades.

Wonderful tone and fingerpicks well. All reasonable offers considered. Retails $2899.

Warranty.

Rockin’ PA System Mint condition, clear sounding, all Samson, 2 speakers DB500A, subwoofer DB1800A and mixing board MDR8. Includes all cables and manuals. Make offer.

828-779-0233.

Vintage Viking Drum Kit Complete 5 piece kit.

Includes all hardware, cymbals, practice pad, & instructional book w/cd. $375 Call 778-2498.

Washburn B-16 Banjo: I am selling my baby. She is about 6 years old. Normal wear on the head and some rusting on the brackets.

Hard shell case included. $800, obo. dbanjo@gmail.com Washburn Guitar Delta King electric. 335 style. As new. Plays, sounds great.

Case, tuner, music book. $150. 828-296-0423.

Musical Services

-&4-&:

ASHEVILLE’S WHITEWATER RECORDING Full service studio services since 1987.

• Mastering • Mixing and Recording. • CD/DVD duplication at the best prices. (828) 684-8284 • whitewaterrecording.com

Bass Player Needed Have guitar, vox, drums, & rehearsal space. Hard Rock Covers.Goal is regular weekly rehearsal & occasional gigs. ehyall86@charter.net or 828-508-0573 Black Mountain Band looking for serious musicians.

Hardcore/electronic guitarist and bassist. At least 18yrs old. Must show up to practice. Lee 828-2165450, Blues Guitarist moving to area soon seeks bassist,singer to form blues band. www.myspace.com/gabriell ecrow or gabrielle.crow@yahoo.com Classically Trained Pianist needed with composing/arranging skills for recording project. email through contact page at www.nadia.net.

Looking for Talented Vocalist for hard rock/metal band. Must be very committed to work. Call (828) 442-9894.

Recruiting horn section for Prime Tyme band828-5057066.

Singer looking for band.

Strong vocals. Blues sound.

Also into 90’s alternative. I have a place to practice in Arden. terry.frazier@yahoo.com Studio Guitarist Rock, Blues, Metal, Acoustic, Ebow. 30 yrs exp. You pay, I play. 1-828-349-9268

Pet Xchange

Lost Pets A LOST OR FOUND PET? Free service. If you have lost or found a pet in WNC, post your listing here: www.lostpetswnc.org LOST YOUR PET? FOUND A PET? Call Asheville Humane Society, (828) 253-6807, to fill out a missing or found pet report. Visit 72 Lee’s Creek Road, Asheville. www.ashevillehumane.org

Pets for Adoption

A LOYAL COMPANION Murray, a Shepherd mix, might be the one for you.

Call Brother Wolf Canine Rescue at 808-9435 for more information or visit www.bwcr.org

ADOPT BIG BEAR I have lovely, long hair and I was born in February 2003. I’m a big hunk of love, energetic and outgoing. I get along well with other dogs. I’m really looking forward to a special home. Can’t you see us enjoying a good hike together? To adopt Bear or see other available cats and dogs, call 258-4820 or visit

BUTTERS IS WAITING Meet Butters, a poodle mix.

Butters is available for adoption through Brother Wolf Animal Rescue. Call 458-7778 for more information or see all our adoptable friends at www.bwar.org Doberman Black and Tan Hound, Bella is 2 1/2, spayed, microchipped w/shots and house and leash trained. Due to owner’s busy schedule, she is seeking a new and loving home. Very pretty, sweet and good natured. Good with other dogs, No Cats.

Small adoption fee, Call 676-9991.

ENGLISH BULLDOG PUPPIES Two White English Bulldog Puppies for re homing. Male and female. sheronmoore442yahoo.com

Wanted: Large black German Shepherd or mix for family pet. Willing to pay small rehoming fee. email: roughwingedone@ yahoo.com

animalcompassionnetwork.org

FIND THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE! Cats, dogs, & other small animals available for adoption at Asheville Humane Society • 72 Lee’s Creek Road • Asheville, NC • (828) 2536807 www.ashevillehumane.org

Zen and Zuzu Need a Home Looking for a good home for two sweet cats, brother/sister, 6 years old, fixed and in good health.

828-215-2512.

ADOPT CALLIE is a shy little girl who was part of a feral colony. Such a brave one, she was unable to even come out from behind her litter box- but within one week she is lying in a bed and can hardly contain her excitement when someone pets her! She is a curious and courageous cat, and I think she is trying to make up for the lack of love she has had. To adopt Callie or see other available cats and dogs, call 258-4820 or visit

Gorgeous Kittens. Short and long Hair.

Spayed/neutered. No fee.

Contact Friends2Ferals at TNRCatCatcher@yahoo.com or 803-553-7919. Located S. Asheville.

ASHEVILLE PET SITTERS Dependable, loving care while you’re away.

Reasonable rates. Call Sandy Ochsenreiter, (828) 258-0942 or 215-7232.

Pet Services

F[ji e\ j^[ M[[a Adopt a Friend • Save a Life

animalcompassionnetwork.org

PIPPI Female Hound/Mix 6 months Animal ID. #8010427

BROTHER WOLF CANINE RESCUE Save a dog’s life!

Adopt from Brother Wolf Canine Rescue. 458-7778. www.bwcr.org

BRIDGET Female/Spayed Domestic Medium Hair/ Mix, 3 months.

Animal I.D. #7766960

Musicians’ Bulletin HAPPY BIRTHDAY JERRY! August 1, 1942. Thank you...for a real good time.

Love, Asheville Deadheads.

PABLO Male/Neutered Chihuahua, Short Coat/ Mix, 6 years Animal I.D. #8053084

Let’s wake up the world.™

Earn your Master’s Degree in Integrated Teaching Through the Arts in Asheville, close to home and only one weekend a month. No GRE or MAT required. Lesley University is America’s top teacher of teachers. Contact Jacinta White at 888-608-8463 or at jwhite14@lesley.edu

SWEET 8 YEAR OLD LAB Shots current, needs a new home where he can be an outside pet. He is an absolute love, but we live in a small house downtown, and have only a small yard, and he is not a happy inside dog. He is great with kids and everyone. He is very smart, and knows numerous commands. He would be a great farm dog. Small adoption fee to a good home. brewfish4@charter.net

7i^[l_bb[ >kcWd[ IeY_[jo 72 Lee’s Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 253-6807 • AshevilleHumane.org

Buncombe County Friends For Animals, Inc.

mountainx.com

• JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

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Brand New Laptops/Desktops Bad credit, no credit - no problem. Small weekly payments. Order today and get free Nintendo Wii game system. Call now: 800-8405439. (AAN CAN) GET A NEW COMPUTER • Brand name laptops and desktops. Bad or no credit no problem. Smallest weekly payments available.

Call now! 800-816-2232.

GET A NEW COMPUTER. Brand Name laptops & desktops. Bad or no credit no problem. Smallest weekly payments available.

It is yours now! Call 800803-8819 (AAN CAN) Printer Hp LaserJet 4L. Excellent condition. Extra print cartridge. $50.00 obo.

Owner/Operator’s Manual.

828-505-3752.

Electronics Dish Satellite Equipment Receiver V:P222k. HDTV Dolby Digital. Antenna for second TV. Two remotes.

Outside dish. $50 obo. 828505-3752.

Sporting Goods

by Brent Brown

Vehicles For Sale

Autos

LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE! End cruel and dangerous constant chaining of dogs in NC! Lobby your state reps to reintroduce legislation addressing dog chaining.

For information, contacts and downloads, visit www.crittersong.org

2000 Honda Accord SE Great condition. fully maintained. new timing belt.

All fluids flushed. Full tune up. Like new interior. 601329-3239. $5800.

1989 Ford Escort $300, obo. As is. No Key. New battery, alternator. Manual.

Serious inquiries only. stw1072@msn.com 1995 Toyota Corolla Red four door sedan. Standard transmission. 170,000k.

Needs some work. $1000.

828-231-0179 2 Car speakers: JL audio.

6”x9”. $100, paid $195.

423-9500.

2001 Miata LS Convertible White, tan leather, 55K. Original owner, 5 speed, great condition, asking book trade value, $7500.

Fairview. Cell 407-2568895.

2002 Toyota 4Runner 4 wd Sport. Immaculate condition both inside and out. Runs great, drives great, clean title, and it’s priced to sell.

V6 3.4 Liter, Auto, 131K miles, Tow, Sun Roof. Call 684-2022.

2003 MINI-COOPER S Blue w/white roof. Great condition. 2 new tires. 154K miles. $8500. (828) 6899589.

2004 Honda Civic Silver 2 door, 66K miles, blackish/gray cloth interior, automatic, Kenwood CD player. $9000.

828-989-6494.

2005 Subaru Impreza 2.5RS Silver with black interior, automatic, all-wheel drive. 25city/30highway mpg. 79K miles. $10,500, obo. (828) 380-1151.

2007 Saturn Ion-3 Quad Coupe 52K. Manual, All powered, remote, sunroof,spoiler, 2.4L engine. $6900. 828-231-9887.

88 Volvo 240 GL Wagon Owned 10 years. 200,000 miles. Runs well. Rebuilt alternator, new water pump.

Some electric issues. $750, ob. Matt, 450-4535.

97 Camry LE, 101,800 miles. $3500, obo. Good condition. Runs Good. PS, PW, PD, AC. 828-337-8007 leave message, 98 Ford Escort Widespread Panic road warrior.

163+/25+ mpg. Black w/grey interior. Needs exhaust work. $600, obo.

Call 703-399-1461.

Car Ramps. Two sets.

New/never used. $40.00 for both sets. 828-505-3752.

Automotive Services

DUNE BUGGY Seeking Street legal dune buggy in good condition. Call 2755650.

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.

Trucks/Vans/SUVs 2001 Toyota SR5 Tacoma Xtracab Red TRD 4WD, 3.4L V-6, bedliner, good condition, AC, power windows, tow package, cd player, great dependable truck with 208,300 miles $7,500, obo. Aaron at 828551-9250.

JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009 •

mountainx.com

Antiques & Collectibles

Camper Top/Cover 84” long 72” wide. Paid $1500 sell for $500. 828-5821469.

Women’s Vintage Clothing, jewelry, purses. Circa 1920’s-1960’s. Must come to my home. Prices negotiable/multiple items.

Jenna: 273-2605.

Motorcycles/ Scooters

Appliances

General Merchandise Collegiate Saddle 17” gently used (looks new) English saddle by Collegiate. Free saddle pad & girth. $ 300, email laurenh_99@yahoo.com Keg Pump Tap. Steel/plastic. Release valve.

You pick-up or we meet-up.

828-505-3149.

Noritake China Service for 8 Noritake Countess #7223.

Excellent condition. $250 or best reasonable offer.

Compare at: http://www.replacements.co m/webquote/N__COUNT.ht m stw1072@msn.com

Wanted LARGE PARROT CAGE Want stainless steel cage for reasonable price or free, with or w/o stand. Also want parrot play stand. Marian 252-4179.

2003 Skeeter 190 SL Fish and Ski bass boat $4200, Yamaha V MAX EFI. bb321t@gmail.com/219512 9026

Need Photographic Enlarger Need an enlarger in working condition.

Darkroom materials are welcomed. Will pick up. info@jennifercoates.com

Building Supplies

Sales

Roof Shingles Oakridge textured roof shingles. One complete bundle. Chateau green. $15.00,obo. (828) 505-3752.

Clothing Prada bag, Marc Jacobs shoes Funky Prada Black fur backpack $275, adorable M.Jacobs shoes $300. Both in amazing shape, barely used. email laurenh_99@yahoo.com for pics.

Furniture

Yard Sales A SALE FOR TAILS! Fundraising yard sale, this Saturday, August 1 from 8am-1pm. All money raised benefits Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, an organization helping local homeless dogs and cats find permanent homes. • Furniture, clothes, jewelry, baby items, tons of items! 49 Peachtree Road in South Asheville. Right next to the old WalMart shopping center. Call 458-7778 for more information.

MATTRESSES Pillow-top: queen $250, king $350 • Extra firm: queen $175, king $275 • Full: $150 • Twin: $99. New, in plastic. 828277-2500.

Kenilworth, Multi-family AUG. 1 8 - 1 at 49&59 Sherwood Rd. off Forest Hill Drive. Furniture, kid items, architectural salvage, kitchen, cds, books. cjrjackson@netscape.net

Pier 1 Dining Table Brand New Dark Chestnut Wood.

36” x 78” x 30”. Extends w/Xtra Leaf. $250. stw1072@msn.com Find at: http://www.pier1.com/ Product ID 2309

Multi Family Neighborhood Sale Aug. 1, 8a-1p, 15 Adamswood RD SoAsheville, behind CVS, computers, teen boy clothes, car carrier, household & vintage items, furniture.

2008 Coolsports 50cc: No license required. Great condition. Floor brake, push start. Silver/yellow. 3 storage bins. 1200 miles. $795 includes large full face helmet. 551-7479.

AFFORDABLE APPLIANCES • Stoves • Refrigerators/Freezers • Washers • Dryers • Repairs • Pickup/Delivery • Se Habla Espanol • Preguntale Por Bonnie: (828) 258-7355.

Uncle Joe’s Used Appliances

VESPA ET2 2004 One gray, one pearl, excellent condition. 4200 miles, matching top cases. $2200 each. 231-3279 after 5 pm.

White Whirlpool Refrigerator $150.00, obo, excellent working condition.

16 cubic feet. Carol or Larry at 633-0962 or 242-2705.

Recreational Vehicles

Computers

Medical Supplies

Brand New Laptops/Desktops Bad credit, no credit - no problem. Small weekly payments. Order today and get free Nintendo Wii game system. Call now: 800-8405439. (AAN CAN)

Body Reviver Cushion Massager Dr. Scholl’s.

Three separate massage zones, 5 pulse motors.

Contoured cushion. Passive lumbar support. New. Instruction manual. $75, obo. 828-505-3752.

Vector 6HP GoKart Dual Wheel Drive Coil Over Fun Kart. 1 year old. Paid $1,259.00, asking $950.00.

Call:828-380-1839.

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For Sale

Earthlite Harmony 3 Portable Massage Table with adjustable headrest and carrying case. Like New. $225. Call 828-2983130.

Table and Chairs 48” Round Table & 4 chairs $50 (828) 279-8600.

Lawn & Garden Adirondack Chairs Brand new, fully assembled and sanded, ready to paint, classic curved back design.

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The New York Times Crossword Edited by Will Shortz No. 0624 Across 1 “60 Minutes” correspondent starting in 1991 6 It may be run up 9 Hunky-dory 12 More delicate 14 “I don’t believe this!”

15 Many-armed org.?

16 Talking like a junkie?

18 Be discordant 19 Rock’s David Lee ___ 20 Canapé topper 21 “The Hot Zone” virus 23 Agnostic’s display?

26 Vanessa Williams/Brian McKnight duet 29 Be nosy 30 Sunbathing at Ipanema, e.g.?

34 Plaza locale: Abbr.

37 Suffix with psych-

38 With 22-Down, recliner brand 39 ___-dieu 40 Widower of Maude on “The Simpsons” 41 Rink jewelry?

45 Female whale 46 E-mails from Nigerian princes, e.g.

47 Letter carrier’s uniform?

53 The 40 of a “back 40” 54 Targets of a Moe Howard poke 55 ___ operandi (methods) 59 Cote call 60 Promote one’s business, maybe ... or a hint to 16-, 23-, 30-, 41- and 47-Across 63 Barrister’s abbr.

64 Group with a Grand Lodge in Chicago 65 “Fiddler on the Roof” setting

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE A S T O

C H I N

T A K E C T R A D A R S T E

A L K A L I N E

W E T T E D

S U N G T O

I N H A L E

E D E N I C

S A L T B I I C M R M B I M B N S E T G R R T U U C O N E L K S E R O A R O N O E B O R Y T

P S C C L I A M B A L R I A M S B P N E R O R E N O L R O O A D N

I L O I L O

E A T S A T

G R A N D E

I T S A D A T E

P R E L A T E S

E S E E N E G E S T

E A S T E R

E N T S

66 Wahine’s offering 67 Indian novelist Raja ___ 68 Tanning element

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Down 1 Baghdad’s ___ City 2 Newbie: Var. 3 Stuck, after “in” 4 Buccaneers’ place 5 Set the tempo 6 Fence supplier 7 Mayo is part of it 8 Parched 9 Pear variety 10 Name in dental hygiene 11 Unit of purity 13 Fencing thrust: Var. 14 Uniformed comics dog 17 Call from a farm field 22 See 38-Across 24 Blazin’ Blueberry drink brand 25 Just right 26 Scientology’s ___ Hubbard 27 Chantilly’s department 28 Tear up, so to speak 31 Off one’s feed 32 Batman after Michael 33 Suffix with final 34 Fare “for kids” 35 ___ tar (baseball team supply) 36 Things to tap 39 Device with a flat panel 41 Whoop it up

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828-225-5555

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Gail Azar RN, LPC

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• Child Therapy • EMDR

Mark “Zim” Stewart LCAS

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• Relationship Issues • Substance Abuse

65

Lisa Harris, LCSW

• Women’s Issues • Grief & Loss

68

Puzzle by Nancy Kavanaugh

42 Part of M.Y.O.B. 43 What “Rh” may stand for 44 A.L. East team, on scoreboards 45 A.L. Central team, on scoreboards 47 Normand of old movies

48 Make ___ for (support) 49 Operation ___ Freedom 50 Gordon ___ (“Wall Street” role) 51 Shoemakers’ supplies 52 Flying Cloud of 1927-36

56 Lollapalooza

Adult and Child Medicaid/Health Choice BC-BS • Sliding Scale

57 What’s spread on a spreadsheet 58 Way to stand by 61 Tuskegee U. locale 62 Day after so-called “hump day”: Abbr.

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.

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

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• JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2009

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