Spiritual Wanderers, Prodigal Children
Volume
22
/ Issue 22
Cover Design Credit:
Norn Cutson (illustration & design)
At what point does spiritual exploration morph into consumerism? Some local spiritual and religious thinkers suggest that people need to step out of their comfort zones and shift the focus to serving others.
arts
My journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens
After viewing the original Star Wars movie at age 7, a local writer and actor found the course of his life impacted by the film's imagery and storyline. On the…New Year’s Eve parties around WNC
As we pin our shiniest hopes and dreams on 2016, it makes sense to see its predecessor out in style. Whether that entails peaceful chanting, serious rocking, communing with the…WNC’s longest-running New Year’s Eve dance party rages on
Kent Scott uses the New Year’s Eve holiday to book innovative acts. “These are DJs that I, as a music nerd, really appreciate,” he says. “I’ve tried different kinds of…Smart bets: The Nude Party
The Cannonball Jars, Ancient Whales and The Blots open The Nude Party's vinyl and tape release show at The Mothlight Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 9 p.m. Free.Holiday events roundup for 12/23 through 12/31
ART/CRAFT FAIRS Caldwell Arts Council 601 College Ave. SW, Lenoir, 754-2486 • Through WE (12/23) – “Satie’s Holiday Sale,” 75 crafters and artists exhibiting. Mon.-Fri.: 9am-6pm. Sat.: 10am-3pm. Free to attend. BENEFITS Dancing,…Smart bets: Urban Gypsy Trunk Show
With its bar open for business, Asheville Music Hall hosts the free party on Saturday, Dec. 26, from noon to 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 27, from noon to 7…food
Where to eat in WNC while ringing in 2016
Asheville-area chefs have created a smorgasbord of memorable menus to commemorate the end of 2015.Small bites: Giving tastes good at Appalachian Vintner
A silent auction at Appalachian Vintner raises money for local charities; a grant allows the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project to coordinate a conference on farm-to-school programs; the Biltmore Estate adds…Winter lights: Asheville immigrants share holiday traditions
From German cookies to Middle Eastern bazella riz, members of Asheville's immigrant communities talk about their holiday customs and memories.Spirits of the season: Cocktails to bring good cheer to the home bar
Some of Asheville's best craft cocktail artists provide inspiration for festive tippling.living
Beyond belief: Faith communities embrace environmental stewardship
While there are as many approaches to environmental stewardship as there are churches dotting our region, more and more local faith communities are investing time, money and effort to align…The best holiday gift for lifting spirits, wellness
In the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressures of gift buying, parties and family gatherings yet forget about that old Thanksgiving stalwart — gratitude. But thankfulness may be the…movies
Screen scene: Local film news
"Spotlight" wins SEFCA's Best Film of 2015 award and Asheville School of Film hosts a free Open House.news
Conscious party: Resolution Run turns passion to profession
"It's a great way to kick off the year — starting right off the bat with a goal like a 5K," race planner Daphne Kirkwood says. "Whether you run or…Prodigal children: Returning to covenant from the spiritual playground
“Just for the record, I’m spiritual, not religious.” If you live in Asheville, this probably sounds familiar. But when does spiritual exploration become more of a distraction than a path…Community Calendar Highlights: Give!Local nonprofit events from 12/23 through 12/31
This is the last week to donate to the Give!Local campaign! So far there have been over 290 donations made, with an average donation of $89. The largest donation so…Primary battles 2016: May the best candidates win
Traditionally, even-year elections in North Carolina have been held the first Tuesday in May (the primary) and the first Tuesday in November (the general). For the next cycle, however, new…opinion
Letter writer: Smith understands issues and how they intertwine
"Gordon [Smith] understands public transit, housing, food security and how the issues are intertwined better than anyone I know."Letter writer: WPVM encourages independent voices
This letter is a response to the [cover] article published on Nov. 4 [“Lost in Transmission: Amid Heated Controversy, WPVM Charts New Course,” Xpress]. When local, independent media choose to…Falling through the cracks: Ouch!
Letter writer: ABCCM provides free medical clinic
"The Dec. 9 issue highlighting medical services for those without insurance or a lot of money ... but did not include the contact information for Asheville's free clinic, commonly known…Letter writer: Environmentally friendly builder faces vandalism
"I want to urge anyone who still has issues with our development of the land on Shelburne Drive to talk to us about your concerns rather than anonymously trespass and…Christmas Eve, 1944: A day to remember
"We never knew for sure where the mission would be for that day. They would wake us up around 3:30 in the morning, and the sergeant from operations would tap…“Festival of Lines”