April/May 2014

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We Are Keep It Local it drives me crazy

sweetness

c a n dy a n d c a k e s a n d p i e s o h m y !

S e e i n g L i g h t s f r o m t h e S ta r s Concerts and the Human Experience

rock bot tom

p r o b l e m s & p r o c r a s t i n at i o n

We Are Keep It Local

Volume: 02

ISSUE: 08

EDITORIAL Managing director /editor

Tony Bates | tbates@wearegreensboro.com

creative director

AJ Bates | abates@wearegreensboro.com Non-profit coordinator

Veronica Bates | vlb@wearegreensboro.com staff writer

Carol Bates Morris | cmore@wearegreensboro.com MUSIC EDITOR/CONtrIBUTING WRITER

Sierra Dennis | SierraD@wearegreensboro.com

ADVERTISING advertising manager

John Graham | jgraham@wearegreensboro.com

Published by: We Are Greensboro 415 Pisgah Church R.d #186 Greensboro, NC 27455 www.wearegreensboro.com 336.987.3545

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Š We Are Greensboro 2012-2014 All material is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of We Are Greensboro is strictly forbidden. The greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine at the time of going to press, but we accept no responsibility for omissions, errors, products, services, information or statements made by contributing editors or advertisers. We Are Greensboro reserves the right to deny advertising or any other type of submission that does not meet our standards.

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This selection of healthier treats is only a small selection of the many varieties available at Spring Gargen Bakery and Coffeehouse.

This page and by T. Bates

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liv e!

Contents in greensboro

driving me crazy

r o c k

The Human Experience

Sweetness

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It Drives Me Crazy There are rules to the road...Following them can go a long way to preserving my sanity.

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Verses of hope and a new awakening by Nkrumah Mensah.

The Vines Winery - Mediterranean Fuzion/Mongolian Grill is more than a restaurant, it’s a culinary experience that is essential especially when ...Visitors Must Eat.

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We all need a little sweetness in our lives. Join us as we visit seven of the very best places in greensboro to find it.

Contributing writer Jasmine Simmons shows us the pitfalls of procrastination and how to avoid them.

Live in Greensboro

Rock Bottom

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February/March 2014

Photo Gallery

Who is Greensboro? Why WE ARE of course! Our team will be out and about taking the pictures to prove it... Here are a few friends and they’re just the beginning! Who will be next?

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Visitors Must Eat

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Hope Shines - Poetry

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Sweetness

b o t t o m

Join contributing writer Sierra Dennis as she explores the human experience that is live music.

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You Excite Me - Poetry

Our own Jasmine Simmons provides her poetic take on the power of love. the center of our rights i n s i d e t h e i .c . r .c . m .

A G l o r i o u s g a l l e ry

the art of ebenezer luther an church

a t. r e x n a m e d s u e

n e w at t h e g r e e n s b o r o s c i e n c e c e n t e r

Looking for our previous issues? Visit us online at wearegreensboro.com

GREENSBORO SCIENCE CENTER AQUARIUM MUSEUM ZOO

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I know it shouldn’t, but...

it drives me crazy Tony Bates

It’s 8:30 A.M. on a Tuesday morning and I’m driving south on N. Church Street doing close to the 50mph posted speed. Lo and behold I find myself coming up rather quickly on a car ambling along at what I soon realize is a relatively steady and very relaxed 35 (maybe 38) mph. With not one single car in front of him impeding his progress, the driver, who appears to be having a rather animated conversation with himself, seems oblivious to the line of cars quickly accumulating behind him. Is it legal? Certainly. Is it right? Absolutely not! I’m not even late for work or an appointment, and it still gets under my skin. I can only imagine how someone further back, who’s already cutting it a little close timewise, might feel and if the expression on the face of the driver behind me is any indication, we are definitely on the same page.

It drives me crazy! Yes the act of getting in my car and going from point A to point B is quite literally driving me insane. I mean, it gets so bad out there at times that one would think “there oughta be a law”! But wait, there is, in fact there are many. Why then does it seem as though so many motorists are touring about town as if there’s no method to this madness?

Granted, most road regulations are known (even if not always followed) by most drivers, however this does not apply to ALL traffic laws nor ALL drivers. At the same time there exists another set of rules which, although legally little more than a set of common sense discernments, are very nearly as important as any official driving regulation. Recognizing these “understandings” as well as some of the more vague rules of the road could save lives and will at the very least make travelling by

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automobile a much safer and much more pleasant experience for everyone.

Part of the problem may be in how our traffic laws are presented. They are often very clear on what we CANNOT do or what the law will not allow, yet seem somewhat fuzzy regarding what we actually CAN do and therein lies more confusion. For example, we all know that we cannot pass a non-flashing red stoplight. However, if we are already inside the intersection when the light turns from yellow to red then, by definition, we have not “run the light”. Driving straight and passing a green or yellow light is a no brainer, but the same scenario applied to a left turn seems to cause untold confusion. So, If you find yourself approaching an intersection with a traffic light but no left turn arrow, while the solid light is green do you; A) stop behind the white line at the intersection and wait for a break in oncoming traffic or B) pull into the intersection to wait for the break? Hint: remember, if you are in the intersection when the light turns red, you have not run the light. The correct answer is B. By pulling into the intersection (and keeping your wheels straight), you can proceed with your left turn even after the light has turned red.

You will still have the right-of-way and cross traffic must wait for the intersection to clear before they can begin. This way, even at busy intersections with no turning lane arrows, a few cars can make it through on each cycle. The alternative could be waiting for several light changes before the road is clear enough for even one car to turn. To put it another way, not pulling into the intersection to make the left is often no more than stopping at a green light waiting for it to turn red.

Merging seems to another area of confusion. In this instance the problem has more to do with road courtesy, or a lack thereof, than it does with any actual law (although in some instances “failing to stop to avoid an accident” may apply). More congested cities have had to deal with this problem on a larger scale for decades and seem to have a solution that works.

When two lanes are merging, if each driver in the dominant lane allows one car to move in front of it, the resulting merge will be smooth, cutting down considerably on traffic congestion. Of course this will only work if the drivers in the merging lane don’t try to force the issue and wait for their turn in the “one at a time” process.

This common sense, selfless approach to merging lanes cuts down on traffic accidents while lessening congestion and driver frustration by allowing a smooth steady flow.

This next tidbit is probably the one I understand the least… Turning signals. It’s the simplest of all traffic laws to follow (and yes, it is the law), yet seems to be considered more of an unnecessary annoyance by many drivers today.

Turning signals or hand signals (you remember, the ones we all learned in driving school) MUST be used whenever making a turn, pulling over to the side of the road, parallel parking or changing lanes.

Using turn signals reduces accidents (especially rear ends) and eliminates at least some of the confusion on the road, making the entire driving experience less stressful and much safer. Come on, this is not rocket science, yet it seems to boggle the mind. With the exception of not running over pedestrians, using turn signals should be the most sensible of the common senses needed to drive safely. As important as it is to use signals, so many people don’t that one can only left to wonder, is it on purpose? Maybe it’s a secret and they’re all spies who think they’re being followed and don’t want to give away their direction. It could

be that even they don’t know where they’re going so they figure no one else should either. Or, maybe it’s simply that driving me crazy is the end game. Well, if that’s the case… it’s working!

Speaking of speed limits (great segue, right?); maybe we should have discussed them first. There’s more to a speed limit than the dangers of exceeding them. For instance if a driver is maintaining a steady 45 MPH in the left lane of a highway with a 55 or 65 MPH limit, that’s just wrong. It’s also dangerous, not to mention against the law.

Not only is it illegal to drive below the speed limit in the far left lane, the left lane should remain open for passing and emergency vehicles only.

I have a friend (yeah you, you know who you are), who refuses to drive over 50 MPH…ever. Not only that, but he “likes and feels safer” in the left lane on the highway. No matter how I word it, or how often I tell him it’s not only illegal but just plain rude, he refuses to believe otherwise. Feeling that he has the right to drive in any lane he chooses at whatever speed he chooses, believing that by driving slower, HE was actually the safer driver. What my friend fails to this day to realize is that by keeping the left lane slower he was forcing every other driver behind him to change lanes just to maintain the speed limit. This creates a dangerous potential for accidents as cars move around him, as well as causing a more congested flow of traffic as others have to slow down in other lanes to accommodate the lane changers.

I will be the first to acknowledge that the speed limit is designed to be the uppermost threshold of the rate we should be traveling on any given road, not (as many seem believe) the minimum speed we can travel. Likewise, I would never suggest that someone drive at speeds that are outside of their comfort zone.

In those instances where we are moving slower than those around us, and if we have other lanes to choose from, the simple act of moving over can resolve a problem before it becomes one. (continued on pg.18)

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Hope Shines Nkrumah Mensah

Shines the Sun Upon the grey world Ever hopeful— Her rays tickle Its deep gloom.

A HEAVY weight Presses upon their heads, Upon their shoulders; Blinders keep their eyes From looking ‘round.

Slowly, their souls Restored, They bask in Her Warmth They understand that…

We are not meant To walk alone.

Warm and Bright She asserts Happiness On a resistant populous Urging them to see; to feel Her Light.

Their vision— Focused down a black barrel Without a twinkle At the other end…

More darkness alone.

Then snatching the hand Of one still lost, They Wake them— From the deepest Nightmare.

Drones, they walk; Single filed In lonely lines, Shroud in force fields Of depression and fear.

Persistent with Her Demands; Day after day, She Implores them To break the lines To experience the Sparkle of Life.

Then together— Together— They Smile And move Forward In Blissful ANTICIPATION.

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Take a Stroll Down State Street

When was the last time you took a stroll down State Street? If it wasn’t today, then it’s time you head back. State Street is evolving right before our eyes. And, speaking of eyes, don’t miss one of our favorite shops on State Street EARNHARDT OPTICAL. Located at 509 State Street, this State Street “must stop” features an extensive collection of fashion eyewear. Treat yourself and update your look in the lasted styles at Earnhardt’s on you next stroll down State Street.

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A. Arthur

Mediterranean Fuzion - Mongolian Grill

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n California it’s referred to as Mongolian, while in the Mediterranean it’s known as Fusion. A style of cooking in which meats, vegetables and sauces are individually selected then combined and cooked on a high temperature fusion grill. The result is a tantalizing culinary experience that completely exhilarates the palate, and The Vines Winery: Mediterranean Fuzion - Mongolian Grill is the only place in Greensboro where you can experience it.

This authentic old world restaurant and wine bar is completely off the charts; utterly redefining how east meets west.

Here, you become an integral part of the meal, making it in essence, your creation. Fashioning an atmosphere where your creativity mixes with their freshly sliced meats and vegetables over Greensboro’s only fusion grill, the culinary artists at The Vines are doing it right. Further demonstrating the individuality of your own particular tastes, they have also created the perfect profile and combinations of fresh, scratch made, all

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natural sauces and dips. The exquisite pairing of fresh ingredients and distinct flavors gives these sauces that WOW factor; meaning that from mild to wild, creamy to intense, you are certain to find a combination that is just the way you want it.

Unlike any other dining experience the city has to offer, at The Vines each and every personalized dish is created with you as much as for you, which can lead to one difficulty; choosing a favorite. Understanding the dilemma their style may cause, the friendly and knowledgeable wait staff excels at making suggestions that have proven to impress, as it most certainly did for me. The suggestion (which I gladly agreed to) of beef and shrimp with garlic over noodles, paired with a perfect blend of house sauces was truly inspiring. Still, if selecting from their menu makes you more comfortable, those options are sure to impress as well. Their exotic creations are always based upon the freshest in season ingredients to satisfy your cravings, while each and every day brings a different specialty.

At The Vines, selecting the ingredients for your meal is only part of the experience. Once your decisions are made, the chefs, using cooking swords, grill each meat and vegetable to the perfect temperatures, tenderness and crispness on their fusion top; all in an open kitchen for your dining pleasure and show. Using the finest Mongolian Grill (fresher, hotter and wilder than any Japanese restaurant) and Seductive Mediterranean Fusion; Pastas, Steaks and Seafood all cooked in the open where you are invited to watch. But exactly what is “fusion” cooking? Let’s put it this way, if you cook on a barbeque the vegetables blacken and shrivel at 400 degrees and while they can be tasty, they are by no means still “fresh”. Here the cooking takes place in excess of 650 degrees. The higher temperature and method of cooking ensures that the food remains fresh during the process and that the complexity and color of the meats and vegetables are vivid while the texture and flavor remain at their finest.

This Mediterranean style of cooking paired with The Vines exclusive use of extra virgin olive oil is another key component to fresh tasting, flavorful meats, and vegetables that are much healthier than other alternatives. A consciousness about health and an awareness of their customer’s various needs means that The Vines has made it a point to accommodate their guest’s dietary choices and allergy concerns. Simply mention your needs to your server and they will make every effort to allay any worries you may have. And speaking of health, let’s face it; a little vino is good for you too.

The Vines is aptly named for their connection to wine is impressive. Sporting very unique varietals and selections from both local wineries and vineyards from around the world, their offerings include wines that are sure to tantalize your taste buds, in addition to fine champagnes, craft beer and cocktails as well. (continued on pg. 24 ) 13

S ou thE nd welcome to

South Elm Street

(between the tracks and lee st.)

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n this time of health consciousness with its focus on diet and exercise, the idea of a little splurge, a touch of self-indulgence, is far too often underappreciated. Life is short, too short in fact not to treat ourselves to a little decadence now and again. The idea that we deserve a little sweetness in our lives, coupled with an overriding need to “keep it local”, led us to break away from the grocery super-store bakery and candy aisle and find our way into the local sweet shops here in Greensboro. With fresh ingredients and scratch made offerings ranging from cookies and cake-pops to turtles, tortes and pies, Greensboro sweetshops have treats that are certain to satisfy any craving for…

Sweetness T Bates

B

efore we begin, it’s important to point out our weaknesses here are We Are Greensboro, one of which was our complete and utter inability to choose a favorite type of treat, let alone a favorite location. Not that we didn’t try; we sampled everything we could get our hands on, but in the end it proved to be impossible to select just one. So, in typical W.A.G. fashion, we will leave it up to you, our ever helpful and discerning readers to decide for yourselves. To aid in your quest, we offer the following alphabetical sampling of a few of Greensboro’s local sweet spots.

Candies & Favors by Giane

www.gianescandies.com - 336.944.4768

Candies & Favors by Giane (CFBG) has already created quite a buzz through social medial and the sponsored events they attend. Highly regarded for their creative use of pecan, caramel and chocolate in their absolutely amazing Clusters, (CFBG) also specializes in what has to be one of the greatest tasting and widest variety of cheesecake mousse desserts, ever imagined; including a host of delectable flavors like cherry-lime, sweet

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potato pie, pumpkin pie, orange cream, chocolate, strawberry and lemon to name a just few. In addition to the mousse desserts and clusters, CFBG makes other unique items such as truffles, cake balls, cookie pops and of all things, chocolate shoes (yes, you read it right, chocolate shoes), meaning that they are certain to have something unique that you will absolutely love.

CFBG owner and operator Brooke Giane Kemp began honing her craft in 1997, but it wasn’t until 2009 that she turned her passion (and obvious expertise) into a business and began offering her candies and confections to the public. While having a venue in which to display her treats and interact more with her customers is a high priority, and one which she is right on track to realize, Brooke is happily operating at full speed from the fully equipped kitchen, in the comfort of her own home. This mother of one tells us that “operating my business from home allows me a certain freedom that an outside location would not. It enables me to spend more time with my family and even teach my daughter the ins and outs of the business while we are still growing”.

Proving to be extremely popular for corporate events and parties is only the beginning for CFBG. With ever increasing demand for their specialties and orders for their“custom” creations (including “sugar free” options, custom candy bars, baskets and cheesecake mousse flavors and yes, custom shoe designs) continuing to flow in, it doesn’t look like they’ll be able to hold off opening their shop for long. Until then, CFBG has made it ultraeasy to contact them and place your order. Whether by phone, Facebook, Instagram or their newly redesigned, website, CFBG has made it almost too easy to satisfy your sweet tooth. When you love what you do it shows but more importantly to Brooke, she wants her customers to know just how much she truly appreciates them, explaining that “We want our customers, present and future, to know that every piece of sweet treat is made with the freshest ingredients possible and straight from the heart… We heart what we do and truly enjoy the smiles on our customers faces”, adding directly to her customers a very special and genuine “Thank You from My Chocolate Heart for your support & business”. Uncompromising quality, remarkable taste and a true ap-

preciation of their customers; really… what else can we ask for? • The Cherry Pit Café and Pie Shop

411 Pisgah Church Rd. 336.617.3249

The Cherry Pit Express

1430 Westover Terrace 336.763.4127 www.cherrypitcafe.com

Rarely, does a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (especially one of the best burgers in town) offer scratch made desserts that are enticing enough to be worthy of a separate trip, but then The Cherry Pit Café and Pie Shop is a very rare find. The brainchild of husband and wife owners Brian and April Cotrone, The Cherry Pit boasts a menu they describe as “bringing together scratch made classic American comfort foods, an extensive homemade pie list and a variety of fresh baked treats”. Their very simple yet highly effective concept… comfort and quality, works so well that it’s easy to see why they have quickly become a local favorite and Greensboro’s “go-to” pie shop. (continued on pg. 26) Background image: A sampling of the wonderful assortment at Delicious Bakery

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(driving - continued from pg.7) Another area I’d like to broach is one that is near and dear to everyone, because it has to do with school buses and there is nothing more important than protecting our kids. No, I’m not talking about erratic or unsafe operation of these buses, because I have never witnessed any such behavior. I’m referring to passing school buses when they’re stopped. Although it may seem counterintuitive, we do not have to stop for school buses dropping off kids in EVERY situation. Yes, if we are behind said bus then we have to stop, no exceptions. However, if the bus is on the opposite side of the street AND we are travelling on a two lane (that’s two in “each” direction) road AND there is a median or turning lane, then we can pass safely. Of course it only makes sense to proceed with caution. Since there is seemingly so much uncertainty about what should be a matter we are all sure of, I took the liberty of reprinting the following chart from the School Bus Safety website (http://www.ncbussafety.org/schoolbussafety/sbswlaw.html):

not so complex a system that we should be stuck at these corners forever until someone decides to take the leap.

At a four way stop sign intersection, the first car to arrive at the intersection has the right of way.

In the event that two vehicles arrive at the corner simultaneously, the car to the other drivers “right” has the right of way.

Hopefully this will help clarify the “stop laws” regarding school buses. Nevertheless, if you are still unsure it is always best to err on the side of caution and stop for the bus.

Four way stop signs seem to be yet one more area of the road that never ceases to cause some type of stress to certain drives. An intersection where there is a stop sign on all four corners seems to cause more confusion than any other scenario I’ve seen on the roads of Greensboro. Again, there are rules (actual laws) to determine who goes first and it’s really 18

So it’s simple, the driver to who is on the right hand side of the other driver goes first. The only possible confusion could ensue if, and only if, all four cars arrived at the intersection at the same time. While in my many decades of driving I have never seen this happen, I guess the only alternative would be a few rounds of “rock, paper, scissors” to settle the matter.

Many times it all boils down to simply being nice.

You know, common courtesy; that thing we all know exists, and even think applies to us… and it does, that is of course until we get on the road. You’re in a parking lot, backing out of a space between two huge SUV’s.

You can’t possibly see if the lane is clear behind you, but you feel comfortable knowing that the person coming down that lane will stop when they see you backing up. Slowly, inch by inch you proceed when suddenly; you hear a horn and see a car swerve around the rear of your car. You slam on the breaks and take a beat. Then, even more slowly you continue, because after all, you can’t live in a parking lot. Didn’t the other person see you and since you know they did, why didn’t they stop, do the safe, courteous thing and let you continue backing out? Because courtesy and common sense seem to leave many of us once we get behind the wheel. The sad part is that “if” that driver had hit you, it would have been your fault for backing into them, when just a touch of courtesy would make everyone’s day better. Just remember that at some point in our motoring lives, even those of us that normally back into a space, will find ourselves needing to back out of one.

In looking at the overall concept of courtesy, it may actually be the most important aspect to our driving.

There are many of us who truly believe that we are the exception to the rule. We live in a world where only “others” shouldn’t drink and drive, or for that matter text, eat, talk on the phone, put on make-up, shave, yell at the kids, etc., etc., etc., while driving. Unfortunately, it seems to happen all too often, and again, all too often, someone gets killed or injured because of it. How terrible is that? Some dies because another person couldn’t wait to answer a text. The simple truth is that a little more “good old fashioned common courtesy” can save time, and even lives. Treating others the way we ourselves wish to be treated, NOT breaking some of the rules we don’t feel comfortable with others breaking can make a huge difference.

In the end, it’s really is unfair to think that all drivers should know all traffic laws, but then if we find ourselves in traffic court; the ole “I didn’t know…” defense won’t usually hold up. The fact is there are a lot of drivers on the road today and there will most certainly be more tomorrow. With so much activity and so many distractions, knowing the law and what to do in different driving situations can go a long way to making the roads safe for all of us. Even in instances where we might not be 100% clear, a little forethought, common sense and courtesy up front can greatly reduce the amount of accidents and road rage later and as an added bonus could go a long towards helping to preserve my sanity, at least what little I have left.

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I’ve got 99 problems and they are all because I procrastinated

rock bottom Jasmine Simmons Contributing Writer

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here are six stages to procrastination.

False security--“I have plenty of time;” laxness, excuses--“I’m busy right now;” denial-- “I won’t sleep until this is done;”, crisis--“I’ll never procrasImage of Jasmine by Heather Lashun tinate again” and repeat.

I’m currently on stage five of this wretched cycle, CRISIS--I’ll NEVER procrastinate again! Last article, I told myself, “Jas, you need to start developing the concept much earlier and then you’ll produce something mind-blowingly epic. There is a serious correlation between achieving perfectionism and engaging in procrastination. I spent an entire two months curating a captivating perspective of an action oriented community in Greensboro. And at the end of those two months all I had to show

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“

procrastination revolves in a vicious cycle that we swear will end

for it were digitally crumbled up attempts residing in the wastebin of disreputable writing.

On top of that, in my mind I withdrew some of my accountability points with my editor, Tony Bates. I’ve honestly never had this problem before. When I met Tony and we discussed contributing to this illustrious magazine clutched betwixt your fingers, I warned him I’m a procrastinator when it comes to writing, but I also assured him I always delivered on time. I can’t deny--it’s an exhilarating experience to create a piece when the pressure is on, but in this instance I’ve hit rock bottom. I totally disrespected my deadline.

“Procrastination Expert” Joseph Ferrari, Ph.D., labeled three different types of procrastinators in Psychology Today: [1] Arousal types, or thrill-seekers, who wait to the last minute for the euphoric rush; [2] Avoiders, who may be avoiding fear of failure or success, but in either case are very concerned with what others think of them; they would rather have others think they lack effort than ability;

the outcome of events.

Do you identify with any of these procrastination profiles?--I know I’m a crossbreed of all three! The article concludes with a glimmer of hope for us chronic procrastinators stating, “Procrastinators can change their behavior... it can be done with highly structured cognitive behavioral therapy.” Highly structured cognitive behavioral therapy??? Eek! That seems excessive.

We all put off activities like paying bills on time, working out, or changing eating habits and the procrastination revolves in a vicious cycle that we swear will end. But we forget that we are all equipped with the grandiose skill of decision making. We can decide to alter unwanted ritualistic attributes and restructure our habits into desirable ones. First it begins with an S.O.S. I sought out some advice or rather “highly structured cognitive behavioral therapy” and came up with these anti-procrastination aids for the next time you & I find ourselves in a state of panic.

Take note of the advantages. Fold a piece of paper in half. On one side, list all of the benefits of tackling that task now. On the other side, write the possible consequences of putting it off. Make sure your chart is in a visible location so you don’t forget or ignore your reasons to not procrastinate.

Summon your parental discipline and reward yourself with incentives. Use your siren song, albeit Orange is the New Black, saltrimmed Margaritas, afternoon napping, or online shopping to motivate you to work for a certain amount of time. It is imperative that you respect yourself enough to take this tactic seriously.

Phone a friend. Ask someone to help you complete the task. Responsibility and accountability are two great motivators. Also, collaborating with friends helps sprout fresh ideas and talking about the process helps keep you on track.

I get giddy about sharing my personal writing transition via this publication. It mentally challenges me and more importantly forces me to analyze myself. To make a power move to own your own, to YOLO, to rebel against complacency is a daunting journey filled with several stresses, creative blocks and bouts of procrastination for anyone. I’m learning and reflecting on this journey to self-empowerment. I’m deciding to be disciplined enough to stop procrastinating and striving for perfection. We’re all a work in progress. I said all of that to say this...procrastination is like masturbation, you’re only --well...you get the rest.

[3] Decisional procrastinators, who cannot make a decision. Not making a decision absolves procrastinators of responsibility for 21

! e livin greensboro local music profiles

Sierra Dennis Contributing Writer

D

ianna Hardy, an author, once said “The hugest changes were the ones that could not be seen – that’s where the real apocalypse lay: in people’s hearts, their souls, their beings.”

That remains true from the the first time those words came from her soul to her lips to the pen to the page all the way through to a 45 year old man who’s never been to a show in his life, but is just experiencing the lights dimming and the base drum thumping and amping up the crowd for the first time. There’s a lot to be said in those quiet moments where an author, or even better yet--a songwriter, is trying to translate his or her soul onto a corner of a napkin at a crowded bar. There’s a lot to be said when you’re one person in the middle of a maxed out concert where you can’t tell your own heart beat from the bass in the speakers.

You can’t tell whether it’s your own breathing that’s so fast or it’s really the stranger’s breathing next to you. You can’t tell whether

you’re at a show and you’re experiencing this with tons of people you don’t know, or whether there are tons of people experiencing you. Whether you all are experiencing the artist or the artist is sharing their life experience with you. Either way, it’s more than a matter of logistics and semantics, it goes deeper. It goes to the root. It goes way back to the human experience.

Earlier in the week I met with Citizen Shade; someone who truly connected with me and shared with me a shared notion of what it means to be human (also known as a musician in it’s rawest form). To be human is to be loud. To be contemplative.

To feel elation. To feel pain and to not brush that feeling under the rug. Sometimes it’s the simple acknowledgement of a shared frustration or a shared pain that allows you to connect with one another as humans and sometimes there’s no better way to do that then through music.

Seeing Lights from the Stars:

Concerts and the Human Experience

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Photos: 1. Citizen Shade 2. Adam Smith of Super Bob 3. Couple at Shakori Hills 4. Drummer for Lee Brice at Music Festival

5. Brett Scallions of Fuel 6. Festival Goer at Shakori Hills 7. Fans at Alkaline Trio Concert 8. Drew Recny of Super Bob 8

The person I spoke with is part of a new project based out of Greensboro, North Carolina entitled Citizen Shade. Citizen Shade is a character and a manifestation of pain. But it’s good.

Because it’s a manifestation of it and not a happy shiny denial paired with an awkward laugh that’s supposed to relay what it means to be rejected. What it feels like to drive across the country with genuinely heartfelt and relateable music and hear “well that was nice, have a nice day” after 3000 miles and with only a backpack full of redbull and pringles so you can afford to meet some guy. Some guy in a suit who’s supposed to change your life (supposedly) even though he doesn’t know what your life has consisted of up to this point. And all you get is a handshake and a backhanded smile.

Everybody’s experienced this in some way, shape or form because everybody’s put their heart out on the line. And sometimes it’s not who shines the brightest or who makes the covers that needs to be heard the most. It’s the people who hardly shine at all who sometimes have the most to feel and the most to say, so therefore they deserve the most respect and attention. That’s what I came across with Citizen Shade. Citizen Shade is a character with a story that’s easy to believe in. It’s easy to relate to, which is the point--to relate--as you should when you go to any show.

When the lights go down and the echoes of the screams and the laughter go out into the countryside of a festival. When the beams from those red lights of death (for cameras anyways) get beamed up and around the crowd and are reflected out into space. All that is--it’s not noise. It’s not “damn teenagers”. It’s

people--it’s humans relating and feeling. I’m sure that when astronauts look down from space, if they can see those pulsating lights in certain locations all over the world, they should just know that people down there are having a good time and they are simply being human. Sometimes in this world of stress and sadness, joy and jubilence, the easiest thing in the world is to just crank up your stereo and sing and be human.

If you’re interested in truly being human again, I would suggest going to check out Citizen Shade. This project is from Greensboro, and we all know all good things begin in Greensboro, North Carolina ;) This is seriously one of the newest and most intriguing projects I’ve come across in a few years, and I was lucky enough to experience it from the mouth of a very special and amazing human who just wants to get a message across.

Citizen Shade will be having two shows in Asheville in April.

The first show will be at Appalachian State on April 2nd. I know it all sounds a little vague, but the best shows are the ones you know nothing about and a ton of people are into it already. The show at Appalachian State is set to have at least 2000 students and the Facebook and Twitter page already have 12,000 and 17,000 followers respectively. So come on and catch a glimpse of what it means to be human. Take a road trip to Asheville with some friends, throw yourself into the night and get ready to meet Citizen Shade.

Any questions or inquiries about these April 2014 shows in Asheville can be forwarded to gsoproductions@yahoo.com or citizenshademusic@gmail.com.

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(The Vines continued from page 13)

The Vines is quickly gaining notoriety for its food, ambiance, attitude and of course wine. In addition to being Greensboro's only Mediterranean Fusion/Mongolian Grill, their love and passion of food and wine truly sets them apart from other dining experiences. And experience it you must. When you do, I highly recommend going for the gusto; use your creativity to combine the foods you like into a dish you will love. And

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remember, if you crave it they’ll make it, so when you bring your out of town visitors (and you most definitely should), have some fun figuring out who in your party has put together the best creation. This will quite possibly require a bit of sampling, but that will only add to the overall experience. Definitely making a very bold statement, this culinary delight is quite simply the ultimate in exotic Mediterranean experiences.

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1 Images (courtesy of Giane’s): 1 - Gianes’s Turtlez 2 - AKA Chocolate Shoe 3 - A chocolate shoe & cake balls 4 - Cheesecake Mousse & red velvet cake balls

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(continued from pg. 17)

Drawing from their combined 30+ years of experience in, and passion for, the restaurant business, along with no small input from their four daughters, the Cotrones offer such diverse menu options as slow roasted pot roast, chicken pot pie, home-style meatloaf, burgers, sandwiches and fresh salads. And then there’s the desert menu and of course…the pie! Boasting an incredible variety of more than twenty-five different pies DAILY, with flavors that include Cherry Crumb, Apple, Banana Cream and Lemon Meringue to name just a few, The Cherry Pit has plenty of what it takes to WOW you for dessert. They even have a delectable sugar-free apple pie (which I could eat all day) and my usual here, the Boston Cream, as well as many items which are gluten free or can easily be customized or custom ordered. With daily specials including Wednesday’s BOGO muffins and Friday’s $1 brownies, there is always an excuse reason to drop in (i.e. come on honey, how could I pass up $1 brownies?)•

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Opening in July of 2013, their original location at The Village shopping center on Pisgah Church St. (at Elm), met with immediate success, so it wasn’t long before Brian and April opened a second Cherry Pit on Westover Terrace. Opting to focus primarily on their dessert menu, the success of The Cherry Pit Express is proof that almost everyone loves a good pie, something we have been lacking in Greensboro for far too long.•

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Delicious Bakery

3700 Lawndale Dr, 336.282.1377 www.delicious-cakes.com

Between their first location on Battleground and their current location at the corner of Pisgah Church Rd. and Lawndale Ave., Delicious Bakery has been sweetening up Greensboro for over 81/2 years.

From the moment they opened their doors in November of 2005, Owner Mary Reid has been using her vast restaurant knowledge and 17 years of bakery experience to create everything from biscuits, scones, muffins and breakfast pastries to elaborately decorated special occasion and wedding cakes. Nothing is off the table; brownies, cookies, cheesecakes, pies, tarts, bread pudding and cupcakes are just a small selection of what they offer.

Not to mention that at Thanksgiving and Christmas they make the yummiest yeast rolls I’ve ever tasted.

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Images: (The Cherry Pit Café & Pie Shop) 5 - Just a few of the Cherry Pit’s many varieties 6 - Muffins, Whoopie Pies and Brownies

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5 If forced to name a specialty; Mary says it would have to be cakes and cupcakes because those are their biggest sellers and what they are most known for, but after experiencing their variety, you’ll undoubtedly agree that the term “cakes” barely scratches the surface. Coffee fiend that I am, my personal favorite of their many varieties is the Mocha cake, but the flavors are endless. From their Plain John (white cake with vanilla buttercream) to their Baileys Cream (dark chocolate cake doused in Bailey’s Irish Cream then filled with both dark chocolate truffle and caramel buttercream and iced with baileys laced buttercream), they have around 40 flavor combinations that they’ve concocted themselves but you can also make up your own combination, meaning the possibilities are, well…endless. Understanding that the right size cake can and often does make a huge difference, Mary points out that “we do everything from a 4” cake that serves around 4 to a full sheet cake that serves 100”, but she’s quick to add that if you “need something bigger, we’ve done tiered cakes that serve over 300!”

As for the future, Mary sees the possibility of expanding to include savory food like maybe a lunch menu, but for right now she’s happy doing what the public has come to love and expect… “Making awesome products for our wonderful customers”• Loco for Coco Gourmet Chocolates 2415 Lawndale Dr, 336.333.0029 www.locoforcocochocolate.com

When long-time Greensboro residents Spencer and Susan Andrews were looking for a business that would bring something of value to the people of the city they love, they came upon a gourmet chocolate shop that had everything they had been searching for all rolled up into the perfect package. Founders and former owners, mother and daughter Betsy and Amie Gauthier had not only spent a considerable amount of time finding the best chocolates to fill their shop, it was also obvious that the loved what they did. So, 16 months ago when it

4 became time for the Gauthier’s to move on, Spencer and Susan were the perfect couple to continue the legacy of Loco for Coco, a labor of love they have been performing ever since.

Offering among their various other treats; classic Tortles (fresh roasted nuts, smothered in rich caramel, covered in creamy milk or rich dark chocolate), their incredible Toffee (hand-made using only the finest ingredients and no preservatives), and a selection of “Wine Lovers Chocolate” (dark chocolate truffles, together with, tangy strips of glacéed Italian orange peel drenched in bittersweet chocolate and tuxedo bark, a bittersweet chocolate elegantly laced with white chocolate…the perfect complement to your favorite glass of wine), Loco for Coco is still best known for truffles.

Their signature truffles are hand-made and dipped in a selection of Belgian, Swiss, or Guittard chocolate and additive and preservative free. In what is undoubtedly the largest variety I’ve found in one place; they offer these delights in 30 different flavors, including 6 sugarfree varieties (anything with a little ginger and/or sea salt…wow). Not wanting to cause any confusion, Susan is quick to point out “we do not make any chocolate items ourselves but do represent quite a few local chocolatiers in our store as well as nationally known chocolate companies”, further explaining that their truffles come from Green Mountain Chocolates in Hopedale, Massachusetts. World famous, Green Mountain Chocolates have been touted by the New York Times as one of the best three truffle companies in the country and was founded

by Albert Kumin, a Swiss-born chocolatier who created desserts at the famous Windows of the World restaurant in the Twin Towers, Four Seasons and served as the pastry chef at the White House in the Jimmy Carter administration. (continued on pg. 28) Images: (this page) 1 - The Cherry Pit Café and Pie Shop 2 - Cherry Pit owners April and Brian Cotrone 3 - The cake case at Delicious Bakery 4 - Just some of the cookies at Delicious 5 - Delicious Bakery

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Understanding the needs of the community and leaving no one out, Loco for Coco also offers Kosher in addition to gluten and sugar-free varieties, as well as an easy to navigate website where you can purchase all of their goodies from the comfort of your home or office.

While they can offer you prepackaged assortments of their personal favorites and best sellers, Loco for Coco suggests (and I whole-heartedly agree) you create your own box. These perfect gifts are not “Forests Gump’s” box of chocolates. While the recipient of your gift may be surprised, inside you will know exactly what you’re getting, each one a personally selected favorite. Expertly packaged and wrapped, Loco for Coco chocolates have already proven to be ideal favors for every conceivable type of event from corporate gatherings to weddings and get-togethers. Whatever your reason be it a rare treat or a daily dalliance, everyone should go Loco for Coco as often as possible• Maxie B’s Bakery and Dessert Café 2403 Battleground Ave, 336.288.9811 www.maxieb.com What started as a franchise yogurt shop in 1985 has since evolved into one of the most well-known bakery/ yogurt/coffee destinations in Greensboro. Shedding the franchise label, Maxie B’s Bakery and Dessert Café is now fully independent and locally owned. Conscious of the community that has grown with them over the years and made them so successful, Maxie B’s uses only the freshest ingredients and, whenever possible, locally grown fruit and other local products in their scratch made cakes, cupcakes, key lime pies and many other baked delights.

Their very impressive list of local suppliers is made up of some of the area’s finest and includes among others; Ward's Farms for their eggs, Elbie Powers of The Nut House for pecans and walnuts, Jackson Dairy for their yogurt, and Homeland Creamery for milk, chocolate milk 28

Images: (courtesy of Loco for Coco) Top left- Wine lovers chocolate Bottom Left - An assortment of Loco for Coco Truffles Above - Tortles and Truffles... An elegant treat

(great hot chocolates!!!) and ice cream. I am also told that they LOVE Singing Dog Vanilla (US-made pure vanilla!) and Larry's Beans Coffee in NC! Owner Robin Toney Davis who has been hands-on in her business from the beginning, is highly regarded for her Scratch-made Southern layer cakes, including her top selling (and my personal go-to selection) Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Cake; but she doesn’t stop there. Maxie B’s offers around 37 flavors of cake each day available by the slice, half or whole cake! You can also choose from several cookies (and cookie sandwiches!), key lime pie, cheesecake, and LOTS of lovely little cupcakes. They also make absolutely beautiful wedding cakes and fun celebration cakes...from birthdays to retirement to graduation to showers and of course the always enjoyable "just because" kind of celebrations. Bringing so many years of experience to the table means that Maxie B’s can help you, even when you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for. Stop in for a consultation with wedding coordinator Shannon Barbee (who works directly with brides to design the perfect cake) or Café Coordinator Abby Brannon and leave with the confidence that regardless of any other variables, the dessert portion of your event is certain to be outstanding.

Over the years, Robin, Abby, Shannon and their entire wonderful staff have developed such a special bond with their customers …their friends, that when I asked what final thoughts she would like to share with our readers Robin told me… “We love being connected to this wonderful community in Greensboro, and the large community of Maxie B's fans we have gained via internet communication around the globe! It makes our world a smaller, more intimate place! We consider ourselves so lucky to get to do what we do each day with such a fantastic team at our shop and a family of customers all around!” When you care about people it shows, and Maxie B’s cares•

Spring Garden Bakery & Coffeehouse 1932 Spring Garden St, 336.272.8199 www.springgardenbakery.com

After noticing that Spring Garden’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins were the inspiration for Maxie B’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake, I began my quest for a little inspiration of my own. Needless to say, mission accomplished! Unless you attend UNCG or live in the Spring Garden Street area, Spring Garden Bakery and Coffeehouse is one of Greensboro’s “hidden” treasures, which is really a shame, because nothing about this place should be hidden.

Although there has been a bakery in some form or another at this location for over 25 years, it has changed hands through a succession of neighborhood proprietors, having found a home with the current owners since 2001.

That type of longevity brings with a history and the kind of reputation that must be earned, and earn it they do.

A full line bakery that offers muffins, pastries, dessert bars and brownies, pies, all occasional cakes, wedding cakes, some bread and yes, the best pumpkin chocolate chip muffins in town (possibly the world), SGBC is that

honest homegrown feel and the allure of the ultimate freshness, visiting their flagship location should be on everyone’s “must do” list• Sweet Meg’s Bakery 1577 New Garden Rd, 336.299.0642 www.sweetmegs.net Sweet Meg’s Bakery owner Meghan Pope knows the importance of aesthetics, so after honing her craft and developing cake flavors her customers would love and that she would be proud to serve, she took a rather unusual next step and hired a cake designer with a graphic design degree; a move which has really paid off. The appealing combination of optics and flavor has resulted in a long and ever growing list of one-of-a-kind creations that must be seen to be believed and tasted to be certain they’re real.

Innovative designs, fresh ingredients and remarkable flavor combinations have made Sweet Meg’s Bakery a hot spot for the custom cake crowd and their made to order desserts their bestselling items. So popular are the custom cakes that when I dropped by for my Vanilla Crème Cupcake (okay, and a slice of Pink Strawberry Cake), there were two Images: (Maxie B’s) groups enjoyLeft - Melissa greeting customers ing samples Center - An inviting assortment Right - Room to sit and relax while they waited to consult with Meghan.

neighborhood spot where everyone is at ease and comfortable, yet those in the know will travel miles to get to. Additionally, they have great coffee blends, plenty of teas to choose from, the ability to custom make creations and a wide array of vegan treats to satisfy any dietary need or choice. Another shop “keeping it local” by opting to use local ingredients whenever possible, they are currently working out the details by which locally owned international company Mother Murphy’s will supply most of their flavor extracts.

Certainly not meant to remain a secret for long, general manager Melissa Michos is putting her years of business experience to work making sure SGBC continues its expansion. Not only have they recently opened a café on the Revolution Mill Studios property, SGBC goodies have established a presence in such local landmarks as Deep Roots Market, Earth Fare, Tate Street Coffee House, The Green Bean, Bean Boro and Organic Bean Coffee House to name a few. Their current and continued expansion means that Spring Garden Bakery and Coffeehouse products are easier to get than ever, yet with their 4

With at least a two week notice (may be longer for weddings and larger corporate events), Meghan and her sister/business partner Melissa can create a custom cake (or cupcakes) that will be unique to your special event, one that is certain to be a hit for any type of function. But fear not, if you want your dessert for tonight, Sweet Meg’s offers a variety of cupcakes, cakes by the slice, dessert bars, brownies, cheesecake bars and cookies every day. Not standing on their cakes alone, Sweet Meg’s has many other popular “specialties” including their Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing and their homemade Apple Cheesecake Bars.

Sweet Meg’s is the epitome of the small, locally owned, family operated shop that every town needs. Stop in on the weekends and you’re likely to see not only Meghan and Melissa hard at work, but their mother and father helping in the kitchen and manning the counter, alongside their daughters in this family affair• (continued on pg. 30) 29

Images: (Spring Garden Bakery & Coffeehouse) Left - A small sample of thier legendary muffins Right - An assortment “healthier” yet equally yummy treats

There are common threads through all of the sweet shops we’ve explored… dedication and a commitment to support of the local community; the use quality ingredients and an obvious appreciation of their customers as well as a passion for bring smiles to their faces.

You don’t open an independent bakery because you want to be a corporate giant; you do it because you love what you do. We use the word love quite a bit, especially in terms like “labor of love” and “love what you are doing”, but when it comes to food, is there one that demonstrates love more than something sweet? Each of the shops we’ve visited here is a labor of love, just as every proprietor we’ve met loves what they are doing…and it shows.

Yes, life may be short, but it’s definitely full of sweetness. Yet, trying to pick the perfect pleasure to satisfy that sweet tooth can be a very daunting task.

So taste often and try them all, because while perfection is often elusive, think of all the sweetness you’ll discover in the pursuit.

Images: (Sweet Meg’s Bakery) Clockwise from top • Cakes & Creme Horns • Creme filled Oatmeal Cookies • Erin and David (Meghan’s Dad) manning the counter

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Who is greensboro?

We are greensboro!

You make me feel.

Vibrant with power. Not the vulnerable and defenseless type of power that is adopted by the corrupt, rather (as cheesy as it sounds) the mellow yet dominant influence that love effuses.

Your lack of volume control, your fresh lingering musk, the masculine pressure in your consoling touch, your gaptoothed smile, each of your idiosyncrasies send unbroken energies scampering throughout me.

You excite me.

you excite me Jasmine Simmons 31

"IN DREAMS" by SARAH WATTS

Ambleside Gallery

Original Paintings • Sculpture • Custom Framing • Restoration

528 South Elm St. Greensboro, NC 27406 336.275.9844 www.amblesidearts.com