FREE FEB-MAR 2011 Volume 1, Issue 4
CJ Bauckham on bass and Tyler Gillespie, guitar of The Long Drive band.
Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill
Feature:
Freshman 15 Plus:
Managing Your Credit How NOT to Get Kicked Out of College The Walk of Shame
Regular Departments:
Music, Sports, Dining, Arts, “U Said”, Coupons and More!
Lonnie Poole Golf Course Adopts New Mascot RALEIGH, N.C. In furthering its partnership with the North Carolina State University, the Lonnie Poole Golf Course at NC State has partnered with The Department of Marketing (DofM) to create an illustrated golfing wolf named “Dogleg.” Dogleg the Wolf is a laidback, cool character. While he sports the familiar red and black of the Wolfpack, he also dons a retro look with his knickers and Irish cap. Instrumental in getting this secondary logo approved was Gregg Zarnstorff, Director of Trademark Licensing for N.C. State University. “ ’Tuffy, the Strutting Wolf’ registered trademark of NC State is the only wolf on campus allowed to wear the Block “S” trademark, so we worked out a solution where the golf bag carries the university’s trademarks. This protects the integrity and uniqueness of the Tuffy mark and allows another wolf to join the pack.” said Zarnstorff. All logos or likeness of brands that are to be associated with the university have to be approved prior to distribution. The golf course logo had to go through this same process when it first opened so it could include the wolves running under the famous NC State block “S”. Zarnstorff further explains “Royalty revenue from the new mascot like the original Lonnie Poole trademark will go to scholarships and also to build the endowment fund”. “Having a mascot like Dogleg is another great way to brand our course, said Chip Watson, Lonnie Poole Golf Course’s General Manager. “While our main logo with the foursome of wolves is very recognizable, Dogleg can help bring more options for advertising and apparel opportunities.” In partnering with the Lonnie Poole Golf course, managing partner of the DofM, George Wallace, stated, “To be able to create a unique illustration for a renowned golf course like Lonnie Poole is an honor, and to be associated with the Wolfpack is a huge bonus.”
Watson and Wallace have been in collaboration to create the Dogleg character since the course began construction in 2007, so to finally get it approved and displayed is exciting. Dogleg the Wolf currently adorns the souvenir cups at the course snack bar; plans to use him in more unique ways are underway, so look for Dogleg next time you tee it up at the Lonnie Poole Golf Course. The Lonnie Poole Golf Course The Lonnie Poole Golf Course (www.LonniePooleGolfCourse.com) already is getting a great reputation for being one of the toughest tests for golf in North Carolina. The Lonnie Poole Golf Course at NC State and facilities cover approximately 200 acres and is positioned on the southernmost portion of Centennial Campus. In 2010, the course was voted No. 33 Best New Courses in the Country and a Top 25 Best Campus Course according to Golfweek. These facilities support the academic and athletic needs of the university, and also benefit the community by providing a beautiful public golf course and creating an environmentally-friendly neighbor for the area. The golf course and the research and training facility serve as the: • Home for the Men’s and Women’s Golf Teams • Focal point for critical research, teaching, and extension programs within the Colleges of Natural Resources, and Agriculture and Life Sciences • Central laboratory for NC State’s prestigious Turfgrass Management and Professional Golf Management Programs (PGM).
The Department of Marketing Based in Raleigh, NC The Department of Marketing (www.TheDofM.com) is an elite design and interactive marketing agency. The Department of Marketing has won more than 25 industry awards to date and their vibrant team offers a complete marketing mix including Marketing Strategy, Web Design, Video Production, Search Engine Optimization, Pay Per Click Management and Social Media Marketing, helping clients attract traffic from all available avenues.
MEDIA CONTACT: George Wallace (919) 256-3793 gwallace@TheDofM.com
Happiness Starts Here... VillageofPickwickapts.com
Apartment Features
4016 Twickenham Court Raleigh, NC Office Hours: M-F 8:30-5:30, Sat 10-4 Sun Closed
• Balcony/Patio • Kitchen & Serving Bar • Ceiling Fans • Large Walk-in Closets • Washer/Dryer Connections • Fireplace in Select Homes
919.787.8014
Home Designs • Studio • One-Bedroom • Two-Bedroom • Garden Style • Lofts • Townhomes
See CouPoN oN PAge 29 FoR
$100 off
Community Features
1ST MoNTH’S ReNT!
• Clubhouse • Junior Olympic Pool • Fitness Center • Tot Lot • Clothes Care Center • Emergency Maintenance Full Service Property Management Company Since 1984 Portfolio Includes: Single and Multi Family Homes, Apartment Communities, and Affordable Housing
TradeMark Residential
1001 Wade Avenue • Raleigh, NC 27605 • 919.510.4010 • Fax: 919.510.4009
www.TradeMarkResidential.com
Contents Table of Contents
Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill February-March 2011 Volume 1, Issue 4
Features The Freshman 15...............................................................................6 Managing Your Credit......................................................................10
Publishers Moonstone Studio, LLC Cindy M. Nitschke, partner Pamela K. Marsh, partner Advertising Cindy M. Nitschke, Advertising Director Ashley Taylor, Account Executive Design & Website Pamela K. Marsh, Art Director Photography Ashley Taylor Writers Christie Hadden, Lamar Hill Lindsey Johnson, Amanda MacLaren Dana Magliola, Qiara McCain Tina Moss
How NOT to Get Kicked Out of College..........................................12 The Walk of Shame: One Student Tells All......................................14
DEPARTMENTS MUSIC: The Long Drive....................................................................16 ARTS: Bob Trotman: Inverted Utopias............................................17 SPORTS: The Carolina Rollergirls....................................................18 Movies: Winter’s Bone..................................................................21 DINING: Domo Arigato for Sushi....................................................22 “U Said”...........................................................................................26
uthemagazine.com PO Box 33531 Raleigh, NC 27536 Phone: 919-815-6019
For information: publisher@uthemagazine
Find us on: www.uthemagazine.com U the Magazine is published five times a year by Moonstone Studio, LLC. All editorial contained within is the sole property of the publisher and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written permission of Moonstone Studio, LLC. The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the writers or advertisers. The opinions of the writers are not necessarily the opinion of Moonstone Studio, LLC.
©2011 Moonstone Studio, LLC
4
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
On the Cover: at left, CJ Bauckham on bass and Tyler Gillespie, guitar of The Long Drive band. See page 16. Photo by Ashley Taylor.
Lindsey Johnson is a recent graduate of North Carolina State University, teaching high school Spanish in the southeastern region of North Carolina.
Amanda MacLaren is a student at UNC, majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication Reporting.
Tina Moss is majoring in Africana studies at North Carolina State University.
Dana Magliola is a graduate student at North Carolina State University.
Lamar Hill is an English major at North Carolina State University.
Qiara McCain is majoring in English with a film concentration at North Carolina State University.
Christie Hadden is a world traveling food fanatic and founder of My Restaurant Guru, a Triangle-based Web site: www.MyRestaurantGuru.com.
CHECK IT OUT!
WRITERS
Writers
U the Magazine is also online: www.uthemagazine.com There you can find our Blog, links to advertisers, printable coupons. In addition, you can link to an electronic version of the magazine, lookup archive issues, as well as read all the content in the current issue. If you are interested in writing or have an idea for an article, email us at: publisher@uthemagazine.com
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
5
The Freshman 15
Putting healthy eating habits to use to prevent unnecessary pounds. By Amanda MacLaren
The freshman fifteen is a scary alliteration to hear as a new college student. Stories about other students who gain 10, 15 or even 20 pounds in their first year at college find their way to new student’s ears. And while some accounts may seem like scare tactics, the threat of unhealthy eating habits and weight gain in college is very real. And these habits don’t just disappear after freshman year. They can continue through graduation and sometimes get worse as workloads increase year after year. The freshman fifteen is defined as the total amount of 6
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
weight gained during a student’s stay at college. There are many reasons why college is prime territory for weight gain, so in order to stop the fifteen from happening to you, it’s important to recognize all the causes and find ways to make your time at college healthier and happier.
Beware the Buffet One of the most impactful contributions to the freshman fifteen is the college dining hall. These buffet style cafeterias are one of the most popular choices for college freshmen living in dorms on
campus. They are close, convenient and give parents the peace of mind that their children will be able to effectively feed themselves. In some colleges, like N.C. State University, it is required for freshmen to have a meal plan. Even students who may not want a meal plan usually opt for one in order to be able to have meals with new friends who typically have a meal plan. In theory, these dining halls and meal plans give the student freedom to control their eating habits. But that freedom can be abused given that there
is very little structure as to when and what students eat. Dining halls usually have a wide variety of food, but many offer food that is high in fat and carbohydrates like pizza, cheeseburgers, fries and sweets like cookies and ice cream. Although numerous dining halls are striving to provide additional healthy food items and, in some cases, provide serving size and calorie counts for each dish, it doesn’t change the student’s decision to go for what is easiest and most filling. The most significant thing to do when you have a meal plan is structure your meals when you go to the dining halls. When you get a plate, make sure you have at least three food groups represented. Try and pick up some fruits and veggies, even if the amounts are small. Also, limit the number of carbohydrates you eat at one meal. Instead of getting grilled cheese, fries, pizza and spaghetti, go for a deli sandwich, yogurt and granola, or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli. Eat slowly; your stomach will recognize when it’s full after smaller amounts of food than if you shovel down two plates of macaroni and cheese and fried chicken in 5 minutes. This reduces overeating, another problem with the dining halls. If you’re still worried about consuming too many calories in one sitting, go for the take-out option and grab a box to fill to take back to your dorm while you study or relax with your favorite TV show.
Fight the Fast Food Craving Among school, jobs, clubs and a social life, eating for students usually is just one more thing to have to do. In order to get it done quickly, college students turn to the fast food restaurants that are on almost every corner. The food is cheap, usually portable and readily available, so it’s the perfect solution for a student on the go. But in the long run, this can affect your pants in two ways: your wallet will lighten and your waistline will tighten.
Groceries may seem expensive when it comes time to stock up once every couple of weeks, but it will be much less expensive than spending $6 or $7 once or twice each day. Plus, signing up for a savings or rewards card at your local grocery store will give you plenty of opportunities to take advantage of sales. Cooking at home or in your dorm may seem very time consuming and inefficient, but making your own food will give you a chance to control what goes into your body, rather than trust the mystery meat at McDonald’s. And taking time out to cook can be a way to relieve stress. Plus if you make enough at one time, you can have leftovers for lunch the next day! But if you still feel you need to grab something quick, be smart about what you order. Check out the book “Eat This, Not That,” by David Zinczenko. The book gives examples on what to order at various fast food restaurants. The suggestions may surprise you. For instance, you may think that a Chicken Caesar Wrap from Chick-fil-A would be the healthier option than a regular chicken sandwich, but in fact, it’s better to go with the chicken sandwich! It’s all about the high number of carbohydrates from the tortilla wrap and the high calorie Caesar dressing that’s in the wrap that makes the difference. Also, Chick-fil-A cooks their breaded chicken products in 100 percent refined peanut oil that is cholesterol and trans fat free, another aspect that makes the sandwich a healthier choice. Once you know the ingredients and process that goes into making your food, you can better decide what’s healthy and what’s not. Besides Zinczenko’s book, which is a great resource and covers many different restaurants and food products, another way to find out if what you’re eating is healthy is by looking online. Most fast food restaurants list the nutritional value of their products on their websites (McDonald’s is actually one of the pioneers of this) or even in
1, 2 & 3-bedroom units available NC State student specials 2 Wolfline bus stops on property Newly renovated on-site laundry facility Pool and lounge area Private clubhouse Major appliances included Wall-to-wall carpeting Less than 1 mile from NCSU campus
www.parkwoodvillageapts.com U the Magazine | February-March 2011
7
the restaurant itself (Panera Bread and Pita Pit, among others, do this). In fact, at the McDonald’s site, you can build a meal and compare its nutritional value to other meals! Just by going online once you can build your favorite healthy fast food meal to try out next time you and your buddies grab some late-night grub.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise! It can’t be stressed enough. Around your college years, your metabolism starts slowing down. Since there’s so much to do at college, most students don’t find time to fit in a little exercise. Chances are, you’re not playing the sports you did in high school, and you don’t have a required physical education class. Unless you count a semester of “Beginners Walking” real physical education. It’s important to find time to exercise, even if it’s only for a couple of hours a week. Almost all campuses have at least one gym reserved for students and faculty, so take advantage of it! Run on the elliptical or bike for 15 minutes. Run around the track a couple of times. If it’s nice out, run outside, and watch how quickly you forget you are exercising when you’re enjoying the good weather. Lift weights, do crunches or push-ups, even if you can only get through a few reps. Every little bit helps. Many campus gyms also offer classes throughout the day to help you work out either your full body or a specific part of your body. Classes like Zumba or Kickboxing can help you get a great hour’s workout in by forcing you to keep moving and keep up with the instructor and other people in the class. By working out with others, you’re more motivated to keep moving and push yourself to reach your fitness goals. There are also classes that can help you improve strength and cardio, or flexibility like Yoga or Pilates. Check at your campus gym for classes that can fit into your schedule, and try to get a friend to go with you. Having a little moral support will help ease the apprehension of working out in a large group. And that’s not to knock Lifetime Fitness classes as a way to help keep you in shape. Usually the one semester required
8
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
leads to people choosing the easiest one, like “Beginners Walking,” but if you choose something a bit more challenging, you could get a good work out and not feel like you are wasting your time. Try “Outdoor Sports.” By playing team sports like soccer, ultimate Frisbee or flag football, you’ll get a competitive edge to the class, and you might just forget you’re in class and start to have a little fun while exercising. Even if you’ve already taken a required Lifetime Fitness course, many colleges still offer plenty of physical activity classes that
you could take to keep fit and try something you’re interested in. For instance, UNC-Chapel Hill offers Ballroom Dancing, Ultimate Frisbee and Self Defense all as physical activity classes. Other colleges have similar physical activity classes, and besides getting a decent workout out of the class, you also typically get one credit hour. So ace your physical fitness class, boost your grade point average a little bit and get fit all at the same time! Now, you may not get totally in shape just spending a few hours here and there at the gym or in class, but coupled with healthy eating, it will definitely keep your weight down and improve muscle strength and flexibility. As an added bonus, exercising
releases endorphins, chemicals in your brain that make you happy. This extra boost of happiness can increase your confidence and productivity, and in general make you feel better physically and mentally.
Speed Up Your Metabolism There are several sneaky ways to speed up your metabolism, and as you get into your college-age years your youthful metabolism starts to slow a bit, so some of these tips can really give you an edge as you try to stave off the freshman 15. One of the most important ways to keep your metabolism up is to eat several small meals and/or snacks throughout the day. Not eating will slow your metabolism, so when you do eat, you won’t be burning as many calories; your body will instead store them. Also, drink more water. Your body needs water to process calories, and the more water you drink, the more calories you can burn. Try drinking water before each meal or snack to help keep your metabolism up. When it comes to what your meals consist of, eat more protein-rich foods instead of those high in fat or carbohydrates. The body burns twice as many calories digesting protein than it does for fat or carbohydrates. Try replacing some of your carbohydrates with protein from lean beef or pork, fish, nuts, beans or eggs. If you must have your carbohydrates (like pasta), give your dish an extra kick by adding some red-pepper flakes or chopped green or red chili peppers. Spicy foods have chemical compounds that can temporarily speed up your metabolism, and although it doesn’t last very long, the more spicy foods you eat, the more it may benefit your metabolism.
Lay Off the Booze If you’ve never heard of empty calories, it’s time you learned. Almost all forms of alcohol can be considered empty calories. This means that although you intake calories from the beer, liquor or wine you’re drinking, you gain no nutritional value from consuming any of them. Sure, studies have shown that drinking a glass
and tell us why you deserve a free makeover and you could be featured in our next U the Magazine ad! We Do Great LenGtH extenSionS We fix Box CoLor We remove muLLetS We Can Get you LookinG Cute for tHat SpeCiaL niGHt
of red wine a day can give you some health benefits. But more than one and you are just drinking more and more empty calories. Generally speaking, alcohol consumption increases while you are in college. With parties going on nearly every weekend, who wouldn’t be tempted to indulge a little bit? Still, it’s important to work hard to burn off those calories that you know you are going to consume, or just try and avoid them altogether. It’s not impossible to go to a party and have fun without drinking. Sip on some water or juice while partying, that way you have something in your hands and won’t feel awkward or out of place in a bar or house party where everyone is drinking alcohol. Alcohol is a toxin to your body, and in most cases it will only have poor effects on your health. It’s alright to have fun every once in a while, but in excess, alcohol can lead to weight gain and depression. So, as the motto goes, drink responsibly.
n an pt Salo Conce
919.380.2029
145 W. Chatham Street, Historic Downtown Cary http://www.thehairandfacelounge.com/
Don’t Forget to Treat Yourself! It’s vital to eat healthy daily and exercise regularly in order to avoid the freshman fifteen. But that doesn’t mean kill yourself with fast-pace dieting and crazy exercise routines. You need to spoil yourself a little too. Pick a night of the week to have whatever food you have been craving, as long as you make sure you stick to just one night per week. If your friends are going out for ice cream at Cold Stone and you’ve been eating healthy and going to the gym all week, reward yourself with a treat. And go ahead and get that chocolate-covered waffle cone; you deserve it! Life is all about balance, and if you can achieve that, you’ll be a happier (and lighter!) college student. ________________________________ Amanda MacLaren is a student at UNC, majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication Reporting.
Fab’rik
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
9
Managing Your Credit
The second in a series on managing your personal finances. By Lamar Hill Credit. Credit. Credit. Credit. It’s a word you hear everywhere you go. Good credit, bad credit, no credit…..what does it all mean? Though the word credit is thrown around frequently, rarely do people receive an accurate, thorough explanation of what credit is and how they can avoid making mistakes with credit. Well, what is credit? Scott Greene, BB&T’s Senior Vice President Regional Retail Banking Manager, put it nicely. “Your credit score is your adult report card, and anything above 725 is an A.” Yes, your credit score is your “grade” in financial responsibility. If you have a low score, you are seen as less responsible than people with high scores. Credit scores typically range from 300-800, and 10
anything below 640-650 is considered low. Once your score is in the high 600’s and low 700’s, you’re doing pretty good, and like Greene said, any score above 725 is VERY good. You are given a score by credit agencies that keep track of your credit situation. The three main agencies are TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. These agencies gather financial information on people and provide that information to lenders who then determine if they will grant a loan, mortgage, or credit card to an individual. The compiled information includes your age, Social Security number, current and previous addresses, employers, and marital status. More important and more credit specific is the
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
information on your borrowing history. That includes any history with anyone from whom you have borrowed money or property, like credit card companies, loan agencies, and mortgage lenders. Included in your borrowing history is the date you borrowed, the maximum limit on the account, current balances on the account, and your payment history. All of these factors go into what is called a credit report that lenders view when you attempt to open an account with them. In addition to your credit report, lenders evaluate your character, capacity to repay, and collateral when making decisions. All of this information is up for grabs, and it is your job to make sure your report is accurate and attractive.
Okay, so mortgages and six million dollars in student loans aside, let’s say you have just gotten your very first credit card. (Yea, shopping!) What exactly does attractive mean in relation to your credit card and credit score? What are mistakes you should avoid making with that card? For starters, you want to avoid late and missed payments. As long as you have a balance (money owed) on your credit card, you will have a bill due every month around the same day. Making this payment late or not at all is not good and will negatively affect your credit score. In general, making a payment a few days late is okay, but once your payment becomes 30 days late, it is considered a missed payment. Lenders then report the late payment to the credit bureaus—the three agencies mentioned above. While one late or missed payment may hurt your score a little, multiple late or missed payments hurt your score a lot. In addition, there are fees you must pay for making a late payment, usually about $29 or a percentage of the balance due. Now you have hurt your credit score and owe the original payment that was due plus the late payment fee. It’s a mistake you don’t want to happen. Another mistake you want to avoid is carrying a constant high balance on your credit card. If you have a $1000 limit on your credit card, it is ideal for you to carry a balance of less than 30% or $333 on that card. If you have a constant high balance, say $900, your credit score will drop. Always having a maxed out card makes you look like you are having financial difficulties or bad spending habits. If you cannot afford it, do not buy it. Low balances look good. High balances do not. On that note, remember that a balance of $0 can be just as bad as a balance of $900. If you aren’t using your card at all, credit card companies are not making money off of you, and they have been known to close a credit account for that reason in some cases. Do not underuse the card, and do not overuse the card.
The latter especially means avoiding going over your credit limit. Doing so will cost you a lot in fees and credit points. Your limit is your limit. If you NEED a higher credit card limit, request one. You also have the option of getting another credit card. That brings me to my next warning. You want to avoid opening up too many lines of credit. There is no magic number, but 10 credit cards are probably too many. 3-5 cards are probably all you will ever need and all you should have. Me, I have six. Yes, that’s higher than the number I just advised, but my credit score is a 732. The point (other than my bragging) is that more important than the number of credit cards you have is how you use those cards. No one knows exactly how many cards are bad, but it is common knowledge what credit habits are bad. Avoid those habits. One of those habits involves closing credit card accounts unnecessarily. As you expand your number of credit cards and find yourself not using a certain one, don’t close it. Closing accounts reduces the amount of your total credit limit and has a negative impact on the ratio of total balance on your credit cards to total credit card limit. That means that closing that $1000 dollar account can bring your balance from 27% to something like 35%, depending on your situation. 27% looks better. Also, the longer you maintain a credit card in good status, the better your credit score will be. Having a credit card for three years is super, but having a credit card for five years is awesome.I don’t know if these adjectives are working for you, but essentially, longer is better (yeah, I know, “that’s what she said”). Keep your accounts open if at all possible. Keep track of all your accounts, too. Do not make the mistake of forgetting about a bill or losing a bill and missing a payment. If you move, update all your information, so your bills come to the right place. I keep all of my credit cards in bookmark tabs at the top of my browser
window, so I will never forget to pay a bill. Go out of your way to make it simple and efficient. Also, be ruthless, not kind. Another credit mistake people make is letting others use their credit. Don’t let a friend “borrow” a credit card unless you really really have faith in that friend’s financial responsibility. Remember, they are borrowing what you have already borrowed, and it is you who will suffer if they make a mistake. Remember this the next time your party animal friend asks you to cosign on his loan or apartment lease. For once in your life, just say no. Credit mistakes now can haunt you for a long time, and you want to be able to get good rates on a mortgage, loan, or credit card account if you should need it. Taking firm control of your credit situation right now will help insure that ability. Get informed on credit and your credit situation. Most of the information in this article can be found on BB&T’s or most other banking websites, and once a year, you can request a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com. After you’re informed, become disciplined. Credit cards can be incredibly handy during an emergency or when some necessity arises, but you must not abuse their power. There is nothing wrong with buying an iPod on credit, as long as you have a sound budget and financial plan to pay off that purchase quickly. I know people who get credit cards, max out credit cards, and forget about them. These people are hurting themselves, and they are in for a rude awakening when they really need credit. You can avoid these and other mistakes people make with credit cards by always remembering to be responsible. Just ask yourself: what would Lamar do? Go in peace, and make sure you pick up our next issue in which I cover saving money (it is possible). __________________________________ Lamar Hill is an English major at North Carolina State University.
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
11
The Scream (1893) By Edvard Munch
How NOT to Get Kicked Out of College Five things I did to screw up my college career and what I did to get back on track. By Tina Moss I am quite possibly the only student in college history to be given an award for my academic achievements, only to flunk out three years later. You’re probably wondering how something like that even happens. Well, it wasn’t very hard. What was hard was getting back into college. It took me an exhausting three years. I would hope that through me sharing one of the most embarrassing periods of my life at least one person who reads this will decide not to make the same mistakes. So here is a list of five incredibly stupid things I did to get kicked out of school and what you need to do to avoid the same fate.
I skipped class…..a lot! Not going to class is probably the best way to bring your grade down as quickly as possible. Many instructors count absences against your participation grade or have a limit on how many days you can 12
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
miss, go past that number and your grade gets docked dramatically. Not to mention if you don’t attend class, it’s kind of difficult to know what’s going on and catching up missed work is such a pain.
I didn’t talk to my family, advisor, or counselor until the damage was done. Every time I was having an issue, whether personal or academic, I let it get completely out of hand before reaching out for help. Waiting until the last minute to ask for help is probably the worst thing you can do. Personally, embarrassment is what kept me from reaching out to my support systems. I never wanted to admit that I had messed up…again. I was dealing with an unbelievable amount of stress and emotional issues that I was not equipped to deal with alone.
I didn’t utilize campus resources. When I think about the wealth of resources offered by the university that were at my disposal, I’m embarrassed to say I hardly took advantage of them. Tutoring, clubs, specialized programs, leadership opportunities, the list goes on. They are in place to make me a better student, so why would I not make use of them?
Boys, boys, boys! It’s no secret to anyone that knows me that I’m a bit hypersensitive. I’m a Cancer so what do you expect? And I allowed whatever was going on in my relationship to spill over into every other aspect of my life, including my academics. If I was fighting with my boyfriend, my entire day was ruined. That’s not healthy, nor is it a relationship I should have remained in for as long as I did. But I was in love, or so I thought, and he was my everything
and then some (gee, can you taste the sarcasm?). So just a little tidbit for those of you who are “in love”, or so you think, (oh my, I hope I don’t sound bitter) there is much more to life than your boyfriend and before you invest all of your love, time and devotion into him make sure you are his everything and then some.
I smoked entirely too much marijuana! OK so this is the section where things really get real. I know I’m not the only one out there who has enjoyed the company of a little lady named Mary Jane. While I’m proud to say Mary and I haven’t hung out in couple of years, she was a major factor in my lack of motivation towards my class work. Pot isn’t very conducive to getting things accomplished. In fact, if you have anything that you absolutely have to get done, you should avoid it like the plague, because the only thing you’re going to want to do is eat brownies and watch prank videos on You Tube. It seems as though it took so little effort to get myself into such a crappy position, and five times the effort just to get another chance at finishing my degree. During my three year involuntary hiatus I came into a newfound sense of motivation. As cliché as it sounds, you really don’t miss what you have until it’s gone. It was a long road, but I finally got back to where I needed to be. So here’s what I did.
I took classes at the community college while I wasn’t enrolled at the university. It’s really important to continue working on your degree even if you’re no longer enrolled at your university. Make sure the classes are transferrable. I made the mistake of taking three classes that didn’t transfer, and I paid out-of-pocket for them (I’m brilliant I know). Keeping busy with classes is a great way to stay motivated and not feel like such a loser (just being honest). Also, classes at the community college level are so much cheaper, I took twelve hours for around $600.
I quit pot and boys and upgraded to a man. While I’m not suggesting my significant other was the solution to my problems, he has been a major support system for me. One cannot underestimate the importance of being with someone who is just as invested in your wellbeing as you are.
I made a plan. I made a list of everything I needed to do in order to be successful this time around and I followed it in its entirety. It’s so important to recognize your mistakes and what you need to do to avoid them. How can you improve if you don’t know where to make adjustments?
I was open about my personal struggles. Admitting what was going on with me to friends and family was extremely difficult, because as I said before I was embarrassed. I was always viewed as being academically successful and to fail so miserably was a hit to my pride. Once I got past that embarrassment and realized that they felt no differently about me than when I first went off to college, I was able to move forward.
I scheduled weekly counseling sessions and periodical advising appointments.
For More Information Duke University Academic Resource Center www.web.duke.edu/arc/ Meredith College Campus Resources www.meredith.edu/campus-resources/ North Carolina Central University Academic Resources www.nccu.edu/academics/resources /index.cfm North Carolina State University Academic Services www.ncsu.edu/current-students/ academic-services/index.php
It’s critical to have someone to speak to about your emotional issues, especially if you have a history of not coping well. By keeping in constant contact, you are able to deal with things as they happen and handle them in a healthy manner. Meeting with your advisor is the best way to stay on track academically and maintain your motivation.
Peace College Academics at Peace http://peace.edu/content/page/id/392
I performed my due diligence. One of the biggest mistakes a student can make is not reading their syllabus. It’s the best way to get a heads up on how the class is going to pan out and how it will work with your other courses. If you are confused about anything on the syllabus, in the reading, or covered in the class, ask questions. Most instructors are happy to meet with you during their office hours or at another scheduled time. Find out what related resources are available and take full advantage of them. This isn’t high school, most instructors are not going to spell everything out for you. You have to put in the effort. Remember it’s much easier to bring down your GPA than it is to bring it up. So before you make the same mistakes I did, think twice and pay attention to what I’ve told you. I’ve listed websites here that have information that every student should know. Please take some time to look at the link that corresponds with your respective college or university. ____________________________________ Tina Moss is majoring in Africana Studies at North Carolina State University.
Shaw University Student Information http://shawu.edu/Students/Student_ information.aspx University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Support Services http://www.unc.edu/current-students/ index.htm
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
13
The Walk ofoneShame: student tells all By Lindsey Johnson
There are some things we experience in our lives that make us wince even at the thought of recalling the memory. Those early 20s, when we make some of the most outrageous decisions (some of those we can’t even recollect the next morning) which may or may not lead to excellent rewards (or terrible consequences) later on. Many of the male population on any given college or university campus has at least one “wild night at the bar” to gush over, and most have thrown up in at least one public and embarrassing spot somewhere near their dorm or apartment. Many ladies have, at least to some extent, experienced the walk of shame. You know to what I refer, girls. That’s way too early to be out, stumbling in your club heels, strutting across the main campus courtyard. No one actually knows where you are coming from but you, but you can’t help but feel at least a little mortified. Please do not get me wrong. I am not trying to say that all college experiences mimic the splendor of classic films such as National Lampoon’s Animal House and St. Elmo’s Fire. But we all laugh and cry with the characters in those films because we do see the underlying messages these movies attempt to portray. College represents a time of experimentation and growth. And let’s admit it, we do things during our college years that we would never dream of after we graduate. Hell, most of us will still
14
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
take many nights experienced in our twenties to the grave. I know that, for a long time, there were things that I did that I regretted to the point it made me sick every time the memories would surface. It was painful to admit that I wasn’t always as collected and in control as I am now. But as I have learned during my recent exposure to adulthood and grown-up life, I would not likely be who I am now had it not been for some of those too-drunk-to-function parties and never-will-get-past-the-first first dates. I am now, after a lot of reflection (and a glass of wine here and there), completely comfortable with who I am, and who I have always been. For the first time ever, I want to share these experiences with those of you still out there in college. I want you to know that making mistakes is part of the reason post-secondary education exists. You have to learn how to deal with yourself before you can expect the rest of the world to deal with you. Anyway, here’s my story. I grew up in a small town in the mountains of North Carolina. I was always a perfectionist by nature with a decent touch of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Needless to say, I was never the kid my parents had to worry about. I always got assignments done in record time, was relentless about studying and keeping up with chores around the house, and had an after-school job as early as fourteen because I was determined to make my own way in the world. I had everything right, except for the whole childhood thing. I was never really good at being “gentle with myself,” a phrase that my mother has preached to me for years and that finally, in my newfound state of contentment, is permanently tattooed on my left wrist. I always had friends, but was just as comfortable to be alone. I had a few
flings in high school but nothing really serious, and when it was time to go to college, I felt like for the first time I wasn’t going to be ahead of the game. I was excited to embrace this newfound chapter in my life. Perhaps college is where everyone actually cares about learning, no one makes the dumb mistakes they made in high school, and conversations with boys had nothing to do with slapstick comedies or bodily fluids. And then I threw my duffle bag down in the floor of my prison-cell-sized dorm room and reality set in. It wasn’t everyone else that was weird and outof-place. It was just me. As I watched the other college students around me, throwing bras around the room and popping open oversized cans of light beer to celebrate not being “kids” anymore, it occurred to me that I was never going to find a place where I was normal. I would have to figure out how to blend in to my surroundings, or I was going to be forever cursed as the weirdo control freak that didn’t know how to have fun. (Was it my fault that Scrabble was my favorite past-time, and my best friend was my mother?) So I set off to fit in, and while I always maintained my own weird idiosyncrasies (such as never missing class, even with the worst hangover, and always finishing papers at least a week early), I did manage to dress scantily, stand on my head while sucking from a keg, throw ping-pong balls into cups filled with beer (which I still find quite fun), and even take the walk of shame a time or two. The first time I didn’t realize until I was already back on my side of campus that it had occurred. As I made my way up the six flights of stairs that led to my dorm room (always been afraid of elevators), I realized that I had just had sex (not particularly good sex,either), thrown
on the same outfit I had been wearing at the club, and had forgotten the guy’s name before even getting my shoes back on. As I had strutted across the dark and vacant campus, I had felt proud. It was like “I am woman, hear me roar” was echoing with each click against the brick sidewalk. But then, as I crept into my room in an attempt to avoid waking my roommate, I realized what had really happened. I had just experienced a one-night-stand, and didn’t even notice. I was being quiet as I entered, not because I was being courteous, but because I was embarrassed. I looked at myself in the dimly-lit mirror. My hair was tousled, and my mascara had leapt from my eyelashes and was now resting comfortably just above my cheekbones, making me resemble a slutty raccoon. Had I honestly been proud five minutes ago? I felt sick about it for days. Every time I walked to class, I could hear that clicking my shoes had made that night, only this time, the echo didn’t sound like “I am woman, hear me roar.” It sounded like “I am a slut, I deserve to be stoned.” (I was a little dramatic, I realize.) What was worse, I was embarrassed to talk about it with anyone. My friends could tell I was acting strange when I avoided going out and had very little to talk about during our routine “eat icecream and gripe” sessions. Finally, my aunt (who is actually very close to me in age) got me alone and asked what was going on. I broke down. Between sobs, I managed to tell her that I had slept with some boy and I didn’t know his name and I felt like a harlot and the sex wasn’t even good and I was sure that I had done something wrong and that all his friends
were probably making fun of me as we were speaking. When I caught my breath and cleaned myself up enough that I could see through the steady stream of tears, my aunt was smiling. “It happens. And they are not making fun of you. You probably rocked his world. Trust me, you are not the first woman to take the walk of shame, and you won’t be the last.” And suddenly, I felt better. I was no longer isolated and alone. Not that I wish my misery on anyone else. But it is nice to know that you are not the only one to make a dumb choice. And to tell you the truth, it wasn’t the last time I made a dumb choice (very similar to that one, as a matter-of-fact). However, it was the last time that I went into it without at least considering my options, and I never tried to handle another stressful event alone again. We all learn from those situations. I learned that I need to be able to trust at least one person enough to let it all out once in a while. I think we all need that go-to person, whether it is because of test-stress or a lousy date. Everyone needs to vent sometimes. I also learned that clicky heels on brick can often lead to unnecessary torment and really loud innerthoughts. My advice? If you decide to take that walk, wear flats. _________________________________ Lindsey Johnson is a recent graduate of North Carolina State University, teaching high school Spanish in the southeastern region of North Carolina.
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
15
MUSIC: The Long Drive Certainly on the road to success, The Long Drive is taking their sound of Indie Groove Rock to new heights with the October release of their first EP “Waking Up to the Fall”. These musicians are by far one of the most talented and eclectic groups in the Raleigh area. Their niche and overall advantage lies in their writing. The group is composed of guitarists Tyler Gillespie and Marc Morris, bassist CJ Bauckham, and Taylor Adams on the drums. Tyler, Marc and CJ also pull double duty as the band’s main songwriters, each of them possessing a unique and distinctive writing ability that balance out the others. However, with the new addition of keyboardist and singer-songwriter, Kristin Farley, the band has incorporated some elements of modern jazz to help round out their unique “indie groove rock” sound. Kristin said, “I feel like the keyboard and my jazz sound add a little more depth to the band’s music overall”. When asked about being the only girl in the group, Kristin stated, “It’s actually great… I feel like I get along better with guys, they are more relaxed and carry less drama!” The track “Brooklyn”, a personal favorite of mine, is a mixture of both funk and rock, definitely a song one can listen to while taking a long drive, hence the meaning behind the band name. In describing the “Long Drive sound”, they said that it’s a combination of three main emotional elements: happy, dark and funk. According to the group, what they believe separates their sound from other bands is that “Other bands are either mellow, hard rock or heavy metal, whereas we are a
Photo by Ashley Taylor
By Qiara McCain
The Long Drive performs in Raleigh. Band members left to right: Marc Morris, guitar; Kristin Farley, keyboard; CJ Bauckham, bass guitar; Taylor Adams, drummer in the back; and Tyler Gillespie, guitar.
MUSIC blend of all genres”. For example, the song “Vertigo” written by Kristin, the lyrics and music seems like a mixture of Alanis Morissette and Sara Bareilles. As a whole, the band has a diverse array of musical influences such as The Beatles, Jimmy Hendrix, Kirk Cobain, Etta James, The Roots, Radiohead and Alicia Keys, to name a few. For those of you who think cover bands suck, you have obviously not had the privilege of hearing the band’s amazing version of “Wake Up” by The Arcade Fire, which is the theme song from the motion picture Where the Wild Things Are. When asked about choosing songs to cover, they said, “We just listen to the radio and make suggestions to the rest of the bandmates,
Photos by Ashley Taylor
Taylor Adams, drummer
Tyler Gillespie, guitar
Kristin Farley, keyboard
16
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
practice it and then judge from there…we never go searching for one [a song] though”. The five year plan for the lady and gentlemen is to have a record deal, tour both the U.S. and Europe, because they like bonding on road trips, and then return home to their Alma Mater, NC State University, for its annual Friday Fest celebration. For more information on The Long Drive, check them out at www.facebook. com/thelongdrive and at www.twitter.com/ thelongD. __________________________________ Qiara McCain is majoring in English with a film concentration at North Carolina State University.
CJ Bauckham, bass guitar
Marc Morris, guitar
Arts: Bob Trotman: Inverted Utopias
Photos courtesy of the North Carolina Museum of Art
By Tina Moss
Bob Trotman, Girl, 2002, paint and tempera on white pine, poplar, and basswood, with small amount of wax. Purchased with funds from the William R. Roberson Jr. and Frances M. Roberson Endowed Fund for North Carolina Art, © 2002 Bob Trotman
Bob Trotman, Cake Lady, 2002, wood and tempera, H. 37 x W. 19 x D. 26 in., Collection of Rick and Dana Martin Davis, © 2002 Bob Trotman.
Imagine if every cookie cutter American ideal you can think of was turned on its heels and no longer represented what it once did. If everything we’ve been programmed to strive for in life now appears to be the complete opposite of those very aspirations. How does one react to that? In Inverted Utopias, Bob Trotman challenges these ideals and literally turns them upside down. My first introduction to Bob Trotman was through his Business as Usual exhibit at The Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte back in 2009. I got an opportunity to see his work again because Inverted Utopias is the opening exhibit for the North Carolina Gallery at the NC Museum of Art. Bob Trotman was formerly a furniture maker, but eventually moved
into figurative sculpting using mainly wood, tempura, and wax. Trotman says he is “most interested in expressions of alienation: from the physical environment, and even of the self from itself”. Inspired by carved religious figures and ship figureheads and using wood, which is naturally filled with quirks and flaws, Trotman is able to achieve these “expressions of alienation”. Some of my favorite pieces are Janet and Girl who both appear to have completely lost control of themselves; they are shown totally “inverted” with their feet in the air. Another favorite is Jane, whose hands are raised in the air and seems to be sinking into the floor. In this exhibit he really wants us to question what success is and how does it make us feel once it is achieved. Is it much different than we imagined it to be?
Bob Trotman, Martin, 2008, wood and tempera, H. 41 x W. 23 x D. 23 in., Collection of Rick and Dana Martin Davis, © 2008 Bob Trotman.
Bob Trotman is hands down one of the most intriguing artists I have encountered in quite some time and I am looking forward to what he will do in the future. I highly recommend that everyone see this exhibit as soon as possible, preferably more than once. Inverted Utopias is free and open to the public and will be shown through March 27, 2011. To find out more information on this artist you can visit his website at www.bobtrotman.com. “It’s always interesting to see power portrayed without their power.” –Bob Trotman ________________________________ Tina Moss is majoring in Africana Studies at North Carolina State University.
ARTS
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
17
SPORTS: The Carolina Rollergirls: Heaven and/or Hell on Wheels: A Triangle Sports Alternative
Carolina Rollergirls All-Star Ms. Anthrope looks to block the inside track of the opposing team’s star-marked jammer during a 2010 bout. When it comes to sports entertainment, there are few places in the country with more to offer than the Triangle. Local sports fans can tailgate at any number of local college football games, paint their faces and wear out their vocal chords up and down Tobacco Road during college basketball season, or even enjoy a hot dog and a cold beer in the cheap seats of one of our two minor league baseball teams. If that’s not enough, you could pound the glass while catching Hurricane fever or toot your vuvuzela like a hooligan at a Railhawks match. The options are many, and each offers its own unique atmosphere. None, however, is quite as unique as the Carolina Rollergirls roller derby. For the past seven years, these self-labeled free-wheeling roller-vixens have circled the flat track of the historic Dorton Arena, offering their audience constant entertainment complete with athleticism, grace, drama and devastating hip checks that would leave even Eric Staal taking notes. Roller derby events are known as bouts, and they live up to their name with bodies hitting the floor, pile-ups, wipe-outs, shouts and even a little good-natured trash talk. Ticket prices average about $10 or a little more on the day of the match, and for this bargain rate, the Carolina Rollergirls and their
Photo Courtesy of Craig Lammes
By Dana Magliola
opponents generally offer up two rounds with up to four teams competing. Sometimes the girls do it old school and put on a matinee bout at the Skate Ranch in Raleigh. Both venues are great for viewing and the Rollergirls bring it no matter where they roll. If you’re going to take the family out for some good old-fashioned roller derby excitement, here’s a quick summary of the rules, with sincere apologies to any roller derby purists. First of all, like most other sports, there’s offense and defense. Offense takes the form of an aggressive speed skater known as the jammer. This damsel of distress skates rapidly around the track passing opponents as fast and as regularly as possible. This is how points are scored. On her side are her cohorts in this adventure who look to enable her to pass through the opponent’s team by (almost) any means possible. There are some rules and boundaries, but those are no fun to discuss and hardly limit the rowdiness. On the defensive side, there’s a pivot who serves as a field general for her team, orchestrating mayhem in hopes of slowing the opposing team’s jammer. Ok, if you’re lost or confused at this point, don’t fret because you will not be alone. That being said, once you see this ballet-slash-juggernaut in action, it will all
become apparent. More than anything, it’s fast, it’s loud, it’s raucous, and most of all— extremely entertaining. From its humble beginnings, the Carolina Rollergirls organization has developed into a five team league, competing nationally as a part of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). With almost a hundred member leagues, four major divisions and over forty more development level “apprentice leagues,” the WFTDA serves as the international governing body of the sport, setting rules and competition standards while also promoting the sport’s growth. Although the term “governance” may seem stodgy and conformist, these rollerderby dames are everything but. A simple catalog of league and team names can leave a reader laughing, cringing, and even blushing. Some favorites include the Oly Rollers of Olympia, Washington; the No Coast Derby Girls of Lincoln, Nebraska; the Bruise Crew of Tampa Bay, Florida; Las Vegas’ Hoover Damned; Washington, DC’s Scare-ForceOne; and of course, Austin’s Texecutioners. League and team names are not the only creative outlet in this sport of team-minded, wordplay-friendly individualists. Each player chooses (or earns) her own stage moniker. For example, fans can spend one afternoon at Dorton Arena and walk away with more than enough pun-ishment after rooting on Raleigh’s Debutante Brawlers’ rink legends Ms. Anthrope, Deviled Legs, Beth Row and Lady Smackbeth among others. If you’re lucky, they’ll square off on the oval against the Trauma Queens’ Fanta-C, Celia Fate, Sheeza Freak and the Hot Mess Express to name a few. With irreverence run amok, jersey numbers are also fair game for self-expression. Princess America sports number 1492, while Holly Wanna Crackya dons 999, and, of course, don’t forget Trudy Struction’s 22oz. Newcomers to the sport may be misled by the seeming grace and coordination that the girls demonstrate on the track, albeit Scorsese-esque violent grace. However, this does not happen without effort. Beth Row, a veteran Carolina Rollergirl and media liaison for the league says, “These girls make it look easy. It’s not. It’s a lot of hard work, but the hard work is fun and the success that comes after the hard work is a big payoff.” She
SPORTS continued on page 20 18
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
Photo Courtesy of Joshua R. Craig
Get low, get low, get low! This Carolina Rollergirls All-Stars jammer dips into an opponent’s attempt to block her pass.
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
19
SPORTS: The Carolina Rollergirls: Heaven and/or Hell on Wheels: A Triangle Sports Alternative continued from page 18 Tai Chi-Tahs’ rollergirl Eris Discordia pulls into a wide-open sprint in front of on-lookers at Dorton Arena. And who said animal prints and argyle don’t go together?
Photo Courtesy of Joshua R. Craig
continues, “Many of the girls come from a very diverse athletic background and some of the girls have never played another sport. I’d like to think it’s the challenge that brings people to roller derby.” With open tryouts scheduled in January each year, The Carolina Rollergirls welcome new participants with open arms. This is ironic (real irony, not hipster irony) because even if you’re not participating as a skater, watching a bout at Dorton is, according to Row, “up close and personal. You might even end up with a spilled drink because a rollergirl has fallen into your lap.” Now that’s my kind of spectator sport! However, if simply watching from the very-near sidelines doesn’t satisfy your jonesing, you can get a virtual bruise-free fix with a new roller derby Wii game where couch-derbygirls can lace up and all of the characters are based on real-life WFTDA athletes. But don’t bring that JV name on your drivers’ license to either, visit www.rollergirlthebook.com/name_generator
SPORTS divas of doom, visit their website at www. carolinarollergirls.com. ___________________________________ Dana Magliola is a graduate student at NC State University, but if he was gender-eligible for such a moniker, his roller derby alias would be either Juwanna Mann or Falls Bravado.
Photo Courtesy of Joshua R. Craig
to meet, greet and celebrate your new, sexier, empowering, yet still somewhat destructive alter-ego. The Carolina Rollergirls start their 2011 season with a double-header home bout at Dorton Arena on Saturday, February 19th.For more information on these quad-wheeling
Tai Chi-Tahs’ Kitty Crowbar braces for a rollergirl-sandwich courtesy of Debutante Brawlers Riva Derci and Ms. Anthrope. 20
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
MOVIE REVIEW: Winter’s Bone By Lamar Hill
Her family just barely survives on donations from her neighbors, and the closest family she has are slightly friendlier than a wild boar. She doesn’t go to school and she doesn’t go on dates; survival is her only concern. You male viewers might feel a bit emasculated when you see her chopping wood; kicking down doors; and wielding a double barrel shotgun, but you’ll admire her nonetheless. Why is she kicking down doors? Well, she’s on the search for her drug-dealing father who hasn’t been seen in months. He’s due for trial, and if he doesn’t show up, Ree will lose the house and all the land. That would mean certain death for Ree and her family. With no help and no options, it’s up to Ree to track down the man the police couldn’t and bring him home to face the music. However, it isn’t as easy as a simple search and rescue. There are a lot of people – bad people – who would go to great lengths to make sure her father’s whereabouts remain a mystery. Still, Ree refuses to take no for an answer, and as a result, things turn ugly. What happens next is a matter of goodwill, chance, and the copious heart that Lawrence shows as Ree Dolly. I’ve never been a big fan of dramas, but the reality of this one
Photo Courtesy of Roadside Attractions
Jennifer Lawrence in Winter’s Bone is captivating. Utterly. In this independent film directed and written by Debra Granik, she stars as 17-year-old Ree Dolly. Ree is the grit-tough, no-nonsense provider of two kids and mentally ill mother in the cold and harsh Ozark Mountains.
MOVIES hooked me from beginning to end. The film is precise, the characters are deep, and the starlet is delectable. She WILL pioneer the next generation of actresses, and her Best Actress Golden Globe nomination is, without a doubt, welldeserved. I guarantee you’ll smile at Ree’s sassy one-liners, and I can predict the moment you’ll burst into
tears. Rent this film now. Literally now. If you’re still reading, you’re wasting valuable time that should be spent enjoying the emotional, suspenseful, breath-taking drama that is Winter’s Bone. _______________________________ Lamar Hill is an English major at North Carolina State University.
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
21
DININ
DINING:
Domo Arigato for Sushi
By Christie Hadden, founder www.MyRestaurantGuru.com Photography by Jankee Shah, UNC Graduate December 2010
As a college student I remember the day I first tried sushi. It was late night during a study cram session when my study mate suggested we order brain food. I was willing to try anything that would give me an added oomph of brainpower. She left and returned to the dorm room with an array of fresh, raw fish: a beautiful foray of color and texture. Sushi gave me the power to crush through that study session and ace the test. To this day I credit sushi for invigorating energy and staying power. It’s a food that is healthy, beautiful and delicious. In the Triangle we are fortunate to have some amazing sushi restaurants, each with its own character. Some old, some new, but all carrying fresh fish brought in from all parts of the world. I’ve been to many sushi spots and nothing can beat these top campus favorites.
ARCHIRA THAI & SUSHI
22
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
NG
Log In. Dine Out. My Restaurant Guru is a website that connects you to local restaurants in your quest for great food and great values. View the largest database of menus, reviews and individual dish ratings of every restaurant in the triangle. Earn karma points when you use the site to receive free food, cool swag and invitations to private events.
ARCHIRA THAI & SUSHI
ARCHIRA THAI & SUSHI Chapel Hill 2110 Environ Way Chapel Hill, NC (919) 960-2724
ARCHIRA THAI & SUSHI
Mon-Thu 11am-3pm, 5pm-10pm Fri 11am-3pm, 5pm-11pm Sat & Sun 12pm-11pm Archira is a new upscale sushi restaurant in the environmentally built East 54 Shopping Center located on Raleigh Road (NC Highway 54 East) at US 15/501. The restaurant can be found in the far southwest corner within the shopping center. Archira is heads and shoulders above Chapel Hill’s sushi scene. Its décor is swanky, urban and contemporary. The lunch bento box is such a feast for the eyes and for the stomach. For only $14 you get seven pieces of Nigiri, four pieces California Roll, four pieces
Tuna Roll, Seaweed Salad, mixed green salad, miso soup and omakase. Omakase is a Japanese phrase meaning “It’s up to you” used at sushi restaurants to say, “it’s the chef’s choice”. Sushi Chefs that prepare omakase use the freshest ingredients available to showcase the chef’s talent in artful displays. At Archira, the sushi chef is both playful and creative, and you may have a difficult time eating the artful display that he prepares for you, it is that beautiful! continued on page 24
What are You Hungry For? MyRestaurantGuru.com
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
23
DINING DINING:
Domo Arigato for Sushi continued from page 23
SUSHI Love
SUSHI LOVE Durham
2812 Erwin Road # 204 Durham, NC 27705 (919) 309-2401
Mon-Wed, 11am-10pm Thu-Sat 11am-11pm Sun 5pm to 10pm
Across from Duke campus on Erwin and La Salle Street sits Sushi Love. The fairly new building is the home to other restaurant favorites like Nosh and Six Plates. Sushi Love faces Erwin Road and is not so easily spotted from the parking lot. Once inside you are greeted by a warm space and a view of the sushi bar. The sushi chefs take their job seriously; carefully preparing and artfully plating each dish with the fresh fish that was flown in that day from Hawaii. The pricing is mind-blowingly affordable. With buy-one-get-one-free everyday of the week, the highest price specialty roll is $12. Sushi Love is hands down the best sushi bargain in the Triangle.
SUSHI Love
24
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
G
S aTion 8 Loc S ThE S acro gLE a i r T n
SUSHI BLUES Raleigh
Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:00pm Dinner: Sun & Mon 5:30pm-10pm Tues-Wed 5:30pm-12am Thu-Sat 5:30pm-1:00am
Since 1999, Sushi Blues has been a college sushi haven where the vibe is laid back and chill. The dimly lit, retro interior with posters of legendary blues and jazz artists is too cool for school. Sushi Blues’ extensive menu includes special offerings for your veggie loving friends and sushi rolls made with brown rice for only a dollar extra. As a nice touch the server always brings each guest an amuse bouche, a small bite before the meal begins, of cold noodles. The rolls are fun and jazzy with favorites like the ‘Wolfpack’: made with crab, tempura flakes, asparagus, avocado, scallions, spicy mayo, and tobiko. If you are daring you might try the ‘Bob Marley’: with jalepeño, tuna tataki, pineapple, roe, and scallions. Blues is usually packed when there is late night half-price sushi offered Sunday-Monday after 8 pm, Tuesday-Wednesday after 10pm and Thursday-Saturday after 11pm. Plan to muscle your way in there and enjoy a cocktail like the Peach Saketini, a mix of cold sake, peach schnapps and fresh lime juice. _________________________________ Christie Hadden is a world traveling food fanatic and founder of myrestaurantguru.com, a Triangle-based Website that connects people to the areas best restaurants. To learn more, visit: www.MyRestaurantGuru.com.
Full Bar Daily Drink Specials Dine-In or Take-Out Big Screen TVs for Sports Fans! Hwy 55
301 Glenwood Ave Raleigh, NC 27603 (919) 664-8061
N I-40 Hwy 54
ParkWest Shopping Center
BEST Marga riTa in Tow ’S n!
ElDoradomexicanrestaurant.com 4900 Hwy 55 South, Ste. 140 Durham, NC 27713 919-361-0302
M-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm 5 min. from NCCU • 15 min. from UNC/DUKE See coupon on page 27
ALL OCCASION PHOTOGRAPHY •Engagement •Wedding •Pets •Graduation •Events
919.625.2846 LindaKeyPhotography.com
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
25
U SAID
“U Said”: Q: Are you worried about finding a job after graduation because of the economy?
Photos by Ashley Taylor
Dine-In • Take-Out Delivery • Catering
Upcoming Event? We Cater! RGER U B F EST
B
O BEST NGLE A TRI THE
2010 ekly
nt We ende .com p e d In eek Indyw
BEST BU
RGER
CAROLI NA’ FINEST S
2009 & 2 010 Daily Ta
r Heel
www.BunsofChapelHill.com 107 N. Columbia Street Chapel Hill, NC 919-240-4746
26
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
Beth & Deanna: NC State University “We’re both a little worried, but we know our good looks and charming personalities will get us far.”
Rod: NC Central University “Not worried because apparel design is not affected by the economy.”
Jerrell: NC Central University “Very worried. I am a business major so I am planning to go to graduate school to be more marketable.”
Bri: Meredith College “No, I am not worried because I’m joining the military. I chose to do this because I’m guaranteed a job in Social Work. “
Tiesha: NC Central University “Yes, because it is so hard to find jobs now. I’m majoring in Criminal Justice and hope things are better by graduation.”
Alicia: Shaw University “No, I’m in Social Work. I’m well prepared and with the school’s assistance it will help to find a job.”
Anthony: Shaw University “No, I’m a Mass Communications major, and there are lots of opportunities and it’s recession proof.”
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
# Girl’s Nite Out or Date Nite Shampoo & Blow Dry
$15
50% OFF
new Guest only
Session Fee
Expires March 31, 2011
Guy’s Haircut new Guest only
Regularly $28 - $34, One per person
Once in a Life-Time Offer
Ladies Hair Cut
Shampoo & Blow Dry Style
$15
COUPONS
$15
Expires March 31, 2011
$$$
$$$
COUPONS
COUPONS
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
Shampoo & Style
COUPONS
$$$
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Lunch or Dinner Up to $5 Value
Regularly $35, One per person
new Guest only
Regularly $42-$60 One per person Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
$50/month
$$$
COUPONS
$50/month
$$$
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
$$$
$$$
COUPONS
COUPONS
COUPONS
COUPONS
27
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
I-40
#
COUPONS $$$
Hwy 55
N
$$$
ParkWest Shopping Center
Hwy 54
COUPONS
Expires March 31, 2011
50% OFF
$$$
Expires March 31, 2011
145 W. Chatham Street Historic Downtown Cary 919.380.2029 Expires March 31, 2011
145 W. Chatham Street Historic Downtown Cary 919.380.2029
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
$50/month
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
$$$
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
$50/month
$$$
COUPONS
COUPONS
Expires March 31, 2011
145 W. Chatham Street Historic Downtown Cary 919.380.2029
$$$
Session Fee
COUPONS
ElDoradomexicanrestaurant.com 919-361-0302
28
COUPONS
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
Main: 919.510.4010 • Fax: 919.510.4009 www.TradeMarkResidential.com
$99 move-in special in place of security deposit and administration fees
COUPONS
COUPONS
Expires March 31, 2011
COMPUTER SERVICES of Carolina, Inc.
free photo CD
For More Details - Contact Revonne Carter 919.522.5880 or studiorevy@hotmail.com
10%OFF ToTAL SERVICE 919-489-5252 • www.c-s-c.com
$$$
$$$
www.parkwoodvillageapts.com
Expires March 31, 2011
Coupon Good With Face Painting Event or Body Art Session
$$$
Residential
#
$100 OFF First Month’s Rent
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
COMPUTER SERVICES of Carolina, Inc.
$50 OFF Call 919-610-2191 • MagicRoman.com
$15 OFF Diagnostic SERVICE
COUPONS
COUPONS
COUPONS
COUPONS TradeMark
919-489-5252 • www.c-s-c.com
Must present Coupon on First Call or Email
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
$50/month
$$$
COUPONS
$50/month
$$$
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
$$$
$$$
$$$
COUPONS
COUPONS
COUPONS
29
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
COUPONS
COUPONS $$$
#
$100 OFF First Month’s Rent
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
COMPUTER SERVICES of Carolina, Inc.
free photo CD
Coupon Good With Face Painting Event or Body Art Session
4125 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd. Suite 7, Durham 27707 919-489-5252 • www.c-s-c.com
For More Details - Contact Revonne Carter 919.522.5880 or studiorevy@hotmail.com
$$$
Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
COMPUTER SERVICES of Carolina, Inc.
COUPONS
$50 OFF Call 919-610-2191 • MagicRoman.com Must present Coupon on First Call or Email Expires March 31, 2011
Expires March 31, 2011
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
To advertise contact Cindy Nitschke 919.815.6019
$$$
$50/month
30
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
$50/month
$$$
COUPONS
$$$
$$$
This Coupon Space is YOURS for
COUPONS
4125 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd. Suite 7, Durham 27707 919-489-5252 • www.c-s-c.com
COUPONS
www.parkwoodvillageapts.com
COUPONS
Residential
$$$
in place of security deposit and administration fees
$$$
TradeMark Main: 919.510.4010 • Fax: 919.510.4009 www.TradeMarkResidential.com
$99 move-in special
COUPONS
COUPONS
In the April/May/June 2011 Issue: Features:
Regular Departments:
Finances: Part 3
SPORTS BOOKS/Movies ARTS MUSIC DINING “U SAID”
Living Outside the Box Straight Talk: STD’s
If you are interested in writing or have an idea for an article topic, we’d love to hear from you. Send to: publisher@uthemagazine.com
Or if your organization wants to announce an event: events@uthemagazine.com
U the Magazine | February-March 2011
31