by Bill Walz “Problems cannot be solved with the same consciousness that created the problems.” ~ Albert Einstein Zen teaches us to release grasping, to live life with a metaphorical open-hand. Of course it is also speaking of an open-mind, a non-grasping-mind. Unfortunately, the truth is that we live withContinue Reading

Free Studio Tours Showcase Regional Talent Western North Carolina has long been heralded for its rich art scene. The New York Times, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, and American Style Magazine have all awarded the region top honors for the vibrant community living in these foothills and valleys. On AprilContinue Reading

An Opera by Jake Heggie & Terrence McNally Dead Man Walking is an account of faith and redemption based on the prize-winning book by Sister Helen Prejean. The opera tells the modern-day story of a nun who becomes the spiritual advisor to a condemned man on Louisiana’s death row. OutContinue Reading

A huge thank you to all who entered our 16th Annual Poetry Contest! We had more than 450 poems to choose from. First Place Winner: Joyful Marinara by Jim Reid Second Place Winner: Splitting Logs in Summer by Preston Woodruff Third Place Winner: New Year by Lewis Chambliss Honorable Mentions:Continue Reading

by Carol Pearce Bjorlie Celebrate National Poetry Month all month long! Cut loose, man/woman up, dare, blare, revel in words. Buy a copy of the 2012 Asheville Poetry Review. Editor, Keith Flynn, has assembled a remarkable selection of poems ranging from Sam Hamill, R.T. Smith, Pablo Neruda, Tu Fu, greatContinue Reading

Dead Man Down *** Short Take: This modern attempt at a film noir is a real train wreck of a movie and yet another example that a big budget and a high powered cast do not guarantee success. Reel Take: It no longer comes as a surprise when a foreignContinue Reading

Chip Kaufmann’s Pick: Shoes of the Fisherman (1968) If you followed the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the installment of Pope Francis with interest, then you should check out this 1968 film based on the 1961 book of the same title. Anthony Quinn stars as a Ukrainian archbishop andContinue Reading

Owner of Bogart’s Restaurant Interviewed by Dennis Ray Bogart’s Restaurant, located in downtown Waynesville, has been long-time noted for great steaks, soups, and salads. They provide a casual family atmosphere in a rustic setting and have a menu noted for its practical value. They are located within walking distance ofContinue Reading

by Max Hammonds, MD Read it again carefully: Aspirin is not a miracle drug. Recent international news flashes are touting the “protective effect” of aspirin against melanoma in females. Aspirin has previously been announced as “preventative” in breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer. Please note again: Aspirin is NOTContinue Reading