Brook Bolen

Atlantique Department

The redheaded, Southern, femme, gentile, mama version of Larry David. Writer & nail polish proselytizer. Find me @Salon @Guardian @jezebel @VICE & more #binders

Articles

Arts Nonprofits in Rutherford County Focus on Community, Culture, Economy

1 week ago | livability.com | Brook Bolen

Get the scoop on the exemplary arts scene from three of the region's most active and influential nonprofits. By Brook Bolen on May 27, 2025Located just half an hour from the Volunteer State's capital of Nashville, Rutherford County is one of the fastest-growing areas in Tennessee, and a look at its assets - like rich history, delectable food and drink options, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation - makes it easy to see why.
7 celebrities who own mansions in Virginia

2 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Brook Bolen

Dwayne Johnson at a movie premiere in 2021. (DFree/Shutterstock) Many celebrities have called Virginia home over the years. Check out these seven, ranging from athletes like Bruce Smith to rappers like Missy Elliott. Those of us who live in Virginia adore it for its innate charm.
Madison Irish Fest returns

3 weeks ago | upnorthnewswi.com | Brook Bolen

Get ready to don your green, lace up your dancing shoes, and raise a pint—Madison Irish Fest returns May 30 through June 1. It will bring the Emerald Isle’s vibrant culture to three distinct venues across Wisconsin’s capital city, promising a weekend full of Celtic revelry. Three days, three venuesThis year’s festival takes a bold new approach, spreading the celebration across three distinct venues throughout the Madison area.
Meet the Century Theaters of the Madison Region

1 month ago | livability.com | Brook Bolen

These Madison-area theaters continue to spotlight the region's showstopping arts and culture scene. By Brook Bolen on April 30, 2025 Capitol Theater at the Overture Center From grand, multistage arts centers to intimate, historic opera houses, the Madison Region boasts a vibrant performing arts scene. These Madison-area theaters, each with its own unique story, not only enrich their communities but also draw audiences from across the region and beyond.
Why I Moved My Family

2 months ago | livability.com | Brook Bolen

Former Floridian says Johnson City was the perfect place to put down roots. By Brook Bolen on March 20, 2025According to Cristi Lemanski, Johnson City, Tennessee, has everything a young, entrepreneurial family could want. Cristi married East Tennessee native Michael Lemanski and soon after found her love for the Volunteer State. After having their first child, Michael and Cristi knew East Tennessee would be where they would raise their daughter.
Former Floridian Says Johnson City, TN, Was the Perfect Place to Put Down Roots

2 months ago | livability.com | Brook Bolen

The Lemanski family is thriving in Johnson City, TN, where they're growing their business with the support of the welcoming community. By Brook Bolen on March 17, 2025According to Cristi Lemanski, Johnson City, Tennessee, has everything a young, entrepreneurial family could want. Cristi married East Tennessee native Michael Lemanski and soon after found her love for the Volunteer State.
Q&A | 2025 Live Local Guide | Edible Asheville

Jan 27, 2025 | edibleasheville.com | Brook Bolen

When it comes to the pantheon of local female entrepreneurs (or what the young folks might refer to as baddies), three women come to mind—Jael Skeffington, Katie Button and Jess Reiser, the co-owners behind some of Asheville’s most beloved and iconic businesses: French Broad Chocolates, Cúrate and Burial Beer, respectively.
Where to find mocktails in Asheville, NC

Jan 6, 2025 | avltoday.6amcity.com | Brook Bolen |Michael Beausoleil

Who says you need alcohol to have fun? Whether you’re trying out dry January or you never drink, there are plenty of Asheville spots serving up handcrafted, zero-proof beverages year-round. So raise a glass, and check out these 10 options that will put you in the mocktail spirit. Blueberry Cucumber Smash | The Montford Rooftop Bar, 199 Haywood St. Soak in the views at this rooftop bar as you sip on this sweet, refreshing drink.
What’s new in food: Posana plans South Asheville expansion

Dec 31, 2024 | mountainx.com | Brook Bolen

Downtown restaurant Posana has announced plans to launch a second location in Biltmore Park Town Square in the spring. Since its debut in 2009, the contemporary American eatery renowned for its gluten-free offerings has become a fixture on the local food scene, popular with both locals and tourists. The owners, chef Peter and Martha Pollay, say they’ve been pondering a second location for a while, spurred by concerns over the future viability of maintaining Posana’s downtown space.
Finding the Light Within: Churches help rebuild communities and restore faith

Dec 10, 2024 | mountainx.com | Kay West |Edwin Arnaudin |Brook Bolen |Carmela Caruso

Finding the Light Within: Churches help rebuild communities and restore faith Volume / Issue December 11, 2024 Cover Design Credit: Scott Southwick Cover Photography Credit: Caleb Johnson For some religious residents in Western North Carolina, Tropical Storm Helene not only left behind a trail of wreckage but also raised questions tied to their faith. Religious leaders say that such reactions are normal during a period of crisis. Furthermore, they note, many congregants have leaned into their...