February/March 2013

february/march 2013

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We Are More Than Where... It’s Who We Are TREASURE HUNTING

TREASURE HUNTING

A lt e r n at i v e s h o p p i n g

SPEAKING AMONGST GIANTS a s tudent’s perspec tive

AGELESS INSPIRATION leigh rodenbough

We Are More Than Where... It’s Who We Are Volume: 02

ISSUE: 02

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

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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.

02

A Note from the editor Over these last several months we’ve had a considerable amount of feedback ALL of which we’ve taken to heart.

In our continued effort to bring you the greatest of Greensboro, we are taking a step back and for at least the immediate future becoming a bi-monthly publication. In doing so, we will not only maintain those pieces you have enjoyed thus far, we can increase our content to include the topics you (our readers) have been requesting. To that end we’ve made a few changes as part of what we are sure will continue to be an ever evolving process.

First, I’d like to introduce our newest addition. Sierra Dennis of GSO Productions has graciously agreed to help us out by becoming our music editor as well as a contributing writer. With her finger on the pulse of Greensboro’s music scene, Sierra is uniquely qualified to introduce you to some of the best musical talent the Gate City has to offer, as well as the venues that support our local talent.

In realizing that so much additional talent resides within our education system and being dedicated to the entire educational process, We Are Greensboro is happy to announce the first of what we hope will be many, MANY contributions by area students. In this issue you will find the first of a two part compelling personal account of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University student Jordan T. Robinson including photographs by Brittany C. Wright and Chris R. Martin. Jordan’s account of his time spent ”Speaking Amongst Giants” carries with it an important lesson for anyone yearning to achieve more, but especially for students.

The art community in Greensboro is not only substantial, it’s diverse. In addition to our “Artist Spotlight”, who this month is the amazing and inspirational Leigh Rodenbough, we wanted to expand, and expand we have. With Sierra introducing local musicians, we put the call out to those artists who practice the spoken word. Yes, we wanted (and still want) to hear from the poets among us. Understandably, this can be daunting for a poet, used to verbally expressing their work. After all, so much of the feeling in modern poetry comes from the tonal inflections and expression in the artist’s rendering. Admittedly it was a lot to ask, but Angela Kelsick answered the call with her beautiful and thought provoking work “In The Balance”. Angela, we can’t thank you enough!

A Sampling of the works of Leigh Rodenbough on display at Ambleside Gallery on 528 S.Elm Street

We’re more than confident you will enjoy our new additions and in seeing that WE DO LISTEN, continue to tell us how we can better serve you. Until we hear from you again, remember to “Keep It Local” and as always, thank you all so very much for your continued support.

Tony

03

TriceraShop Sale!

Through March 1st All items featuring the Natural Science Center logo are now on sale for 75% off Visit the shop of www.natsci.com for details

336.288.3769 04

Indiana Bones has returned. Don’t miss his exciting adventures

4301 Lawndale Dr. Greensboro, NC 27455

www.natsi.org

Contents

06.

06

Treasure Hunting

12.

08

Live In Greensboro

Call them antique, vintage, consignment or whatever you choose, but these shops are filled with treasure just waiting to be discovered.

Among the wealth of artists calling Greensboro home are some of the best musicians you’ll find anywhere.

Here’s your introduction.

15

16

The Golden Corner Find out what makes February the biggest little month of the year. Also, learn about Black History Month and maintaining a healthy heart.

28

Speaking Amongst Giants

A student’s first-hand account of what it’s like to converse with titans. Presented by NC A&T SU students

16.

28.

12

Ageless Inspiration

Prepare to be inspired by this month’s “Artist Spotlight”. Meet Leigh Rodenbough, Celebrated artist, mentor and inspiration.

22 Poetry

Welcome to the first in installment of Greensboro’s wordsmiths with Angela Kelsick’s “In The Balance”

30

Visitors Must Eat

Photo Album

Get ready to Get Creole with Cajun Honeybee... Southern food with a Cajun Kick

We are Greensboro, and we’ve got the pictures to prove it.

05

Treasure Hunting O T Bates

nce upon a time, antique dealers, consignment, vintage and memorabilia shops, were all grouped together under the banners “second hand” and “used”. An era when those words meant little more than one man’s trash, this was a time when the clothing, furniture, accessories and the other goods that were available was of questionable quality at best. However, things have changed…really changed. And, what was once looked upon as refuse is now valued by the masses.

Much more than simply one man’s treasure, today, NTY (new to you) translates into treasure for everyone and luckily, there’s plenty of treasure to be found in Greensboro.

06

During the next several issues, we will highlight this exciting approach to shopping and some of the unique and fascinating locations in Greensboro where these often one of a kind gems can be found. However, before any real dialogue can take place on the subject of “treasure hunting” or NTY shopping, some definition of key terms and the different types of establishments is required.

Today, there is a distinct difference between consignment, vintage, thrift and antique shopping and knowing that difference can save valuable shopping time, bringing you closer to the items you really want. For starters: Antique…………..Once used to describe items such as furniture, antique can now refer to a host of varied elements which have an increased value due to their age. Generally to be considered antique, items should be at least 50 years old, however true antiques are over 100.

Vintage…………..Originally reserved for wine or the indication

of a specific year, vintage now commonly refers to items that are old enough to have gone out of style and returned again. Today the term vintage usually references clothing or older non-wearable items that are not quite old enough to be considered antique.

Consignment….These shops rarely own any of the merchandise they sell. Instead, consignors, (the actual owners) leave their goods at the store to be sold, receiving a pre-negotiated percentage after the sale. Although they are often thought of as offering pre-owned items only, these shops can and often do include new items, especially handmade crafts and furniture.

Thrift………………Generally part of the income stream for non-profit organizations, thrift stores accept donated items that can be of any age, category or condition. The proceeds from the sale of these items are used in support of the sponsoring organization. (cont. on page 18) 07

liv e

in greensboro local music profiles

I

have been a resident of Greensboro, North Carolina since the fall of 2005. What brought me here? College. What kept me here? Music and all those involved with it. When I started school, I was a music education major. In the beginning I just wanted to teach it, and later on as I experienced all the music that Greensboro had to offer, I realized that I just wanted to feel it. I also realized later in life that Greensboro and local musicians could potentially teach me more than I could teach anybody else in a more structured setting. So who’s the student here? Me. And my “Professors” are the well trained musicians and artists of this town that I call home: Greensboro, North Carolina.

Many musicians in town have been on the scene for a year or less, but they are making as much noise as any band well versed in the east coast circuit. Laila Nur is one of them. Naming her own genre as Revolutionary Love Music, she has proven over the past couple of years that she’s here to stay and start a revolution of love and music.

She plays all over town, in her own house venue (The Blue Door) as well as on the street if it’s called for. With an eclectic mash-up feel of soul, folk, pop and heart, she is the personification of the quote: “Where words fail, music speaks”. She is an example of this mantra on a daily basis where she might not win you over with her words, but her songs and energy will do just fine. I recommend giving her a listen on YouTube or Reverbnation, or simply checking out her page: whoislailanur.com. You’ll be happy that you did, OR you can live every day missing out on something special… your choice.

08

Sierra Dennis Contributing Writer The Family is a good mix of Southern, Hippy Jam Band & Americana. You’ll be sure to lose your shoes and go barefoot within the first few minutes of their set. Consisting of a very talented 5 piece group, they have many things working for them that would allow them to be one of those breakout artists from the east coast. Sometimes you see bands and artists that are good for the “right now”, but these guys are here right now, and they’ll be here for a very long time.

With the soulful down home vocals of Joe Lee, positivity flowing from Hunter McBride and the “old man” blues that comes from Brice Collins’ vocals and fingertips, you’ve got something that you just can’t touch. With a foundation built on the poundings of the Cajón (a boxshaped percussion instrument) from Jeremy Parker and the steady hum of a bass from Aren Blake, your foot will be tapping, only to be followed by every part of your body. They’re an excellent band of musicians that sound just as great doing solo projects and jam sessions as they do together as a whole band. I look forward to what they come up with next and after one listen, I feel certain you will too.

Greensboro also has musicians that fall into the category of “trance/jam” band.

There was a time when I didn’t like these kinds of bands. It just seemed sometimes that five guys would simply get onstage and play everything for 20 minutes without a break and say that was all one song.

But over time I began to understand and finally, I got it. I could tell it was more about the feeling of the music, the flow, the vibe, the electricity than it was about any definition or label that could potentially contain what these bands were throwing out into the universe. Bands like these, bands like The Mantras, ESP and Imperial Blend, when you see these bands perform, you aren’t just seeing or hearing them, you are experiencing them. That’s all that can really be said because no YouTube or Soundcloud clip will do justice to any of the work that these guys do. You’ll just have to trust your senses and find yourself in the moshpit at one of their shows. Your life will be much better for it.

There’s the pulse of Greensboro as well: all those artists and musicians diving into the hip hop/techno side of things. Over the years, the hip hop/techno/general club genre has expanded to include something for everyone.

There are groups such as Dalton Village as well as Geeks & azWHOLEz that deliver lyrical prowess, smooth rhymes and pumping beats. Then there are the individuals that keep clubs bouncing until last call: Crewless, DJ Deep Theory, DJ Bombthreats, those under the Psyoptic Records label who have prominent night spots on In the Beat of the Night (WUAG 103.1) and of course there are those who forego tables and electrics and use their mouths and a mic such as the pretty legendary DC Carter.

There are bands from Greensboro and bands who love Greensboro so much, they might as well be from here: Holy Ghost Tent Revival, The Leeves, Megan Jean and the KFB and many more. The list of local bands is pretty endless considering that some bands combine and make new bands while some bands have people that split off and do solo work.

The possibilities are endless and there’s always new music to hear and new people to see as well as classic venues to go to.

Over the years, venues have come and gone just as much as any corner convenience store or downtown shop. The frontrunners of the venues in Greensboro vary in location and size, but each one of them is officially a “home” for a lot of people in this town. You have the New Blind Tiger on Spring Garden Street, The Flatiron on Summit, New York Pizza on Tate Street, Greene Street Club, Brewskis and Club Orion on Market as well as Somewhere Else Tavern on Friendly Ave and CFBGs on Chapman. Each venue brings something new to the music community’s experience. The Blind Tiger brings big and local bands alike to their large stage.

The Flatiron is a wonderful place for the locals to have smaller intimate shows with friends that they know and new friends they can’t wait to meet. New York Pizza is relatively new to the venue circuit but they’re always ready to show everybody a good time with food, drinks and atmosphere (the restaurant and bar area are newly renovated). Greene Street Club is a great place for the Friday and Saturday night shenanigans. With huge touring acts as well as local showcases, Greene Street Club is the place to be on the weekends. Brewskis and Club Orion on Market Street are fairly smaller venues but they never fail to pack them out on even weeknights with DJ

open tables, drink specials and special events! Somewhere Else Tavern and CFBGs are your spots for smaller punk bands and weekend showcases for new and local acts.

Even though they aren’t nearly as large in size as places like The Blind Tiger and Greene Street, they can match and overpower those venues with the heart that comes in those places that surprise every time.

Overall, Greensboro is the place to be, especially if you go out there and make it so. There’s something for everybody, individual and family alike, you just have to look for it. And you have to want to look for it. Once you get past those trivial things like location and cover charge, you’re going to experience the untold treasure which is Greensboro’s music scene. There are plenty of other bands and musicians that I haven’t mentioned here, but if you want to see those mentioned above and m a n y m o re , check us out online www. wearegreensb o r o . com and the venues in Greensboro that support local and you’ll be glad that you did.

Do you know of a musician, band or venue that deserves a mention? Drop us a line at music@wearegreensboro. com and we’ll do everything we can to spread the word.

Images left: Laila Nur courtesy of Richard Krol center: Hunter Goode by Sierra Dennis right: : Joe Egan: by Sierra Dennis

09

Greensboro is home to eight different institutes of higher education. There is a building in Greensboro that was designed by Walter Gropius, who is widely regarded as one of the pioneering masters of modern architecture. The Natural Science Center of Greensboro is home to a Bengal/Siberian hybrid tiger. Even the North Carolina Zoo doesn’t have a tiger. The Greensboro Children’s Museum is home to the only publicly accessible Edible Schoolyard program in the country.

And while Greensboro may not be a bustling metropolis or a leading financial center, it has its share of interesting and cultural offerings. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t seem to know how great Greensboro is. That’s why a group of community members and business owners founded Love Greensboro.

Love Greensboro was formed to give residents a unified way to share all the wonderful aspects of the city. It’s about getting people to appreciate what’s here. Their mission is twofold: First, they want to teach people to love where they’re from, to know what resources are available, and educate themselves about things to do. It’s about the importance of celebrating pride of place and building a strong, lasting sense of community.

The second part of their vision is to market Greensboro. Their goal is to promote to the people who live here. Then as Greensboro grows, reach out on a regional and national level to advertise what the city has to offer, from the small independent businesses to the big corporations.

Greensboro has come along way in the past few years, but the city has room to grow and Love Greensboro wants to be a part of it. This is a chance for all of us to contribute to promoting our city and seeing it grow together. It’s a total volunteer effort. They have established an endowment fund housed at the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro for continued support and future activities.

The group invites everyone to get involved. You can find them by searching LoveGreensboro on Facebook. Their website is lovegreensboro.com. Even displaying a sticker, which you can pick up for free, makes you part of the cause in supporting Greensboro.

If there was ever a time when a name said it all, this is it.

Love Greensboro is on a mission to make you fall in love.

Visit Love Greensboro online at lovegreensboro.com 10

11

“it’s neve

Leigh Rodenbough

AGELESS INSPIRATION T Bates

“Why not”? When I asked painter Leigh Rodenbough why he decided to pursue a career as a full time artist after turning 80 his reply was simply “I have the authority, so why not?”…Why not indeed, as there is no reason why this enormously talented man shouldn’t have rekindled a passion he’s had since his childhood, especially considering that his decision has had such a positive impact on so many.

Armed with an active imagination, Leigh’s enthusiasm for art was fostered early in life when he became enthralled by a local artist in the small New Hampshire town he lived in at 12. Painting as a hobbyist (an interest he would return to at various points in his life), his initial artwork was usually reserved as gifts given to friends and relatives. At 18 Leigh’s appetite for adventure and love of the sea led him to the Navy where he remained for the next three years. His duty served, Leigh turned his attention to academic pursuits culminating with a JD from the UNC School of Law. For the following five decades Leigh enjoyed life devoting himself to his family and growing law practice, activities which, while fulfilling, left time for little more than the occasional turn of the brush.

This would change in 1989 when at age 65, his law practice established and children grown; Leigh took his first tangible step into the world of art, dedicating one day every week to painting. Joining twenty fellow artists each week at the “Studio Group” in Rockingham County (an activity he continues to this day), Leigh honed his skill over the years until his retreat from law at age 80 at which time his “career” began. (cont. on page 20) 12

er too late... to follow our dreams�

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14

r

e rn

The Biggest Little Month

o C n

e

G e Th

d ol

Carol Bates Morris Staff Writer

A

lthough, February is our shortest month, it is one of the busiest months of the year. Not only is it Black History month, it is also recognized as American Heart Association month and that’s just the beginning.

To keep you abreast, here is a list of special days throughout the month, some you will recognize and some you will say… ..I didn’t know that.

We have 2 new postage stamps debuting this month – The Emancipation Proclamation (Forever stamp) and the Rosa Parks (forever stamp) Also, we can’t forget about Mardi Gras celebrations. Visit your local bakeries to pick up your King Cakes and join in the fun!!!

1st … National Freedom Day 2nd …Groundhog Day 4th …USO Day 5th …National Weatherman’s Day 8th…Kite Flying Day 9th …National Stop Bullying Day 9th …Read in the Bathtub Day 11th …Make a Friend Day 11th …Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day 12th …Lincoln’s Birthday 13th …Get a Different Name Day 14th …Valentine’s Day 14th …Read to Your Child Day

16th …Do a Grouch a Favor Day 17th …Random Acts of Kindness Day 18th …Kid Inventors Day 18th …Pluto Day 21th …Presidents Day 22th …Washington’s Birthday 22th …Be Humble Day 22th …World Thinking Day 26th …Tell a Fairy Tale Day 26th …Toad Hollow Day of Encouragement 27th …No Brainer Day

For you sports fans, Super Bowl Sunday 2/3.

For the music lover in you, The Grammy Awards.2/10 For the movie goers - The Academy Awards 2/24 So if you thought February was just the shortest month of the year and with nothing really to do… think again!

Moving to Black history month…….did you know that what we now call Black History Month originated in 1926, founded by Carter G Woodson as Negro History Week. The month of February was selected in deference to Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln who were both born in that month. Black History Month is a month set aside to learn, honor, and celebrate the achievements of black men and women throughout history. Black History Month encompasses an entire population of people that possess a unique heritage and remarkable perception of the world. History has not always been kind to African Americans and, as with other minority groups, has left out important contributions made by its members. Black History Month attempts to rectify those oversights, whether omitted purposely or not. Learn about the controversy and celebration of the voice and character that defines what it is and was to be of African descent. The bicentennial of the United States in 1976 motivated the legislature to designate the entire month of February as a time for celebrating black history.

Yvonne Johnson, former mayor of Greensboro, NC, still remembers sitting down at the F.W. Woolworth lunch counter in Greensboro on February 2, 1960 to join a protest that would ignite the way for desegregation across the South. Johnson recalls being scared, but explained that “it did not matter. When your soul has been so suppressed, you do what you have to do.” The president of Greensboro’s Bennett, a college for African-American women, would stand fully behind her students as they protested in shifts between classes. “Dr. Willa Player, president of Bennett, said she would give out diplomas in jail if she had to,” Johnson recently recalled. The efforts of the Greensboro Four, Johnson and others are now permanently documented at the International Civil Rights Center and Museum at 301 North Elm Street in Greensboro. For all Americans who want to learn first-hand about the first sit-in movement in the nation, the museum takes visitors on a poignant journey through the challenges African-Americans faced in the civil rights struggle. (cont. on page 29) 15

THE LESSON:

SPEAKING AMONGST

GI A N T S A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

16

INTRO January 5th, 2013, at approximately 11:00am in the Dudley Building on NC A&T SU campus, I had the pleasure of going to an exhibition of a great man and even greater fashion illustrator, Don Earley. The significance of this show was not only the work, although they were magnificent, but the people I encountered. I met the friends of the Roy Carter, art director of the visual arts program at A&T, and had the pleasure to meet a really good friend of Mr. Carter’s who was also his teacher and mentor, Donald Earley. To me, it was like speaking with a group of GIANTS in the room. The Show exhibits the work that he has done over the years displaying mental process and progression in his work.

There were at 40 works on display throughout the month of January until it was taken down in early February.

(Cont. on page 24)

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Treasure Hunting

(from page 07)

Daisy’s Designer Alley and Design Archives Emporium offer local designers, artists and crafters their own space to display their work. Likewise, consignment shops such as Crossroads Consignments and Hidden Treasures and More, offer consigned items that can be as varied as the personalities found shopping there. For the collector We Buy Treasure has several Triad locations making it a “must shop” where sports and war memorabilia barely scratch the surface of their offerings. Boasting 500,000 sf (8 football fields) in their combined facilities in McLeansville, Replacements LTD is by far the largest business of its kind in the world. Specializing exclusively in old and new china, crystal, silver and collectables, they have amassed an inventory of 13 million pieces which changes and must be updated daily. The list goes on and on, with each shop presenting unique and fascinating pieces to accommodate any taste and budget, many offering multiple sale methods (i.e. consignment AND vintage selections).

Shopping at NTY stores is gaining in popularity. Once a secret of antique collectors or the slightly older Knick-Knack crowd, NTY shopping has seen its numbers increase in every demographic from housewives to high-school teens. College students as well as the recently graduated are expressing themselves by mixing the one of kind items they find in vintage shops with their Ikea sofas. Families are coming in together, redesigning rooms with older ornate decorative pieces and artwork that accent the clean lines of their current furniture groupings. Denise Cranford, owner of Shoppes on Patterson is a veteran of 10+ years in the furniture business and offering her take on why NTY shopping is so popular tells us that vintage and antique shops offer the customer “better quality at really good prices”. But, she says, “there is also the wide vari-

ety of styles that can be found under one roof ”, finally conceding that the reasons people shop at NTY stores are as varied as the different types of merchandise that can be found in them. We’ve found that some of those reasons might be: Quality – Maybe it’s a cliché, but that doesn’t make it any less true that, “they don’t make ‘em like they used to”, is truer today than ever before. There’s a tremendous feeling of elation that accompanies finding a rare piece, made by the hands of a true artisan from an earlier era. Sure, some of the items may show some wear, but that’s part of the allure and to be expected when dealing with older items.

The fact remains that a few nicks and a scratch here and there in no way detracts

from the aesthetic value of these items and in most cases actually enhances it. This goes for most of the items you’ll find in antique or vintage shops and even the better consignment stores. Most of these items will still be around long after we’re gone and the proof is in the fact that they are still here now, available for you to buy.

Style – Not makin’ ‘em like they used to applies to style as well quality. And, while it may be hard to pin it down verbally, there’s definitely no mistaking style when it’s seen. Style means many things to many people, which explains why there are so many of them. Lately and moving forward into the foreseeable future, the trend has been towards a more eclectic look and feel. Manager of the Red Collection, Neil Carroll has noticed that the matching living room suites so prevalent in the 90’s are being accented or even replaced in many homes by the pairing of vastly different yet still complimentary styles of furniture. We see customers often selecting pieces from several different eras for use in the same room.

Yet, style goes far beyond furniture into artwork and other decorative pieces that give flavor to what may otherwise be a bland and lifeless room. Neil has even purchased 1940’s furniture himself to compliment his own 40’s era bungalow.

need those items, so what do you do? You consign them.

You make those items available to new parents who could use the break in price that a consignment store affords them. At the same time you can use the money you make to buy more clothes for your child (which you know won’t fit next week). The same principle applies to your own clothing, furniture, housewares and just about any other item you either no longer use, or simply want to change.

This type of recycling, whether clothing, furniture, accessories or any of the other items you no longer need or want to buy at a discount yourself just makes good sense.

It’s good for the environment, less trash. It’s good for the community, either you’re helping a local business, a fellow neighbor or a worthy cause, but either way it’s helping. It’s good for you, you earn money or credit for items you no longer want anyway, and then use your new found wealth to buy things you actually need. Save the planet, help people and make money…It just doesn’t get any better than that.

Fun – This is probably the number one reason people go searching for treasure in Greensboro. Ok, I’m projecting

“ they just don’t make ‘em like they used to

Price – Of course prices can vary, what definitely will not change is the fact that you can get more bang for your buck buying NTY. Accent pieces can be a few dollars (or in some cases a few cents) while a complete dining or living room set may be only a small fraction of its original price. You can find a stroller, high chair and crib for what a stroller may cost alone.

In any case, what you pay will be a huge value compared to buying something new, that’s even close to the same quality as something new (that’s IF you can find something even close to the same quality new).

Community Value and Recycling – Nicole Ray of Kidzone consignments has seen it before, in fact with over 1300 consignors she’s seen it quite a bit. Your child has outgrown the clothes you bought seemingly just last week. Or, maybe they no longer need a car seat or stroller. You have no friends or relatives that currently

“

Variety & Uniqueness –Since styles change every year, if you want something uniquely different from another era, you have to shop NTY. There is always something for everyone, regardless of style or taste preferences. Yet most of the items are one of a kind. How many furniture, accessory galleries or clothing stores can you visit that can make that same claim? Any given day you may find a Queen Anne bench that is the perfect accent your contemporary platform bed, the next day you could discover a matching throw that completes the look. One store may have a 1950’s skirt you can match to a top you bought new yesterday, creating a one of a kind, unique style all your own. Modern to antique, breadboxes to headboards or lounge chairs and framed artwork to diner stools and pin-up posters, the fact is you never know what will be around the next corner.

here, but it is MY number one reason. I truly enjoy getting out early on a Saturday morning, coffee cup in hand and exploring the shops and boutiques. Joining the other hunters, discussing what items we’ve already found or are still looking for and making suggestions to shoppers searching for a specific item… It’s great.

However, as much as I like getting out on the weekends, it’s those occasional trips I can make during the week that I love. The quiet and solitude of shopping when all around you is still, the joy of finding the perfect item or even just the possibility of finding it, these are the things that make the trip worthwhile. Even if there is nothing you need to accent your wardrobe or no items that will compliment your home, even if you don’t need to, or care about, saving money, do it for the fun!

In this issue, we’ve touched on a few of the locations and types of items you can find on your hunts. In the following months we will go into more detail about those locations and more as well as the trove of booty to be found treasure hunting in Greensboro. Until then, buy NTY when you can and buy local as often as possible.

In doing this, just as any other time you “keep it local”, you’ll be helping your community, you’ll be helping your neighbors and you’ll be helping yourself.

Above & Cover: Jules Antiques & Fine Art - 530 S. Elm St Left Center: Shoppes on Patterson - 2804 Patterson Ave Bottom left: The Antique Marketplace - 6428 Burnt Poplar Rd

19

Leigh Rodenbough

AGELESS INSPIRATION (from page 12)

A

lthough his paintings through the years have focused on a variety of subjects, the same love of the sea and thirst for adventure that led him to enlist in the service is evident in much of Leigh’s work today. Having taken literally thousands of photographs over the years, in each one of what he refers to as “captured moments in time”, Leigh can recall the place it was taken as well as the feelings and emotions he experienced at the time.

With his photos often acting as a catalyst for a resilient memory and robust imagination, Leigh draws on his gifts to recapture these emotions, using them to breathe life into his art. Through what he refers to as a “framework of shadows”, Leigh employs oils and pastels to bring a vivid depth to his landscapes and a fluid sense of motion and exhilaration to his depictions of the sea. “It’s the shadows that define a picture”, Leigh remarks when I comment about his dynamic use of light. “Shadows provide the outline and the depth that let the light shine through” continuing further that, “Shadows bring the painting to life”.

From the woodland imagery in his rendering of the Guilford Courthouse Battleground in “Exit to the Right” to the gentle flow of the river in “Cullasaga Falls”, the depth he refers to is evident in every painting Leigh has crafted. However, as powerful as his landscapes may be, it is his seascapes and those of sailing in particular that remain closest to Leigh’s heart. In recalling the feelings from his time spent in and around the water, including those past experiences racing sailboats, Leigh manages to deftly transfer his emotions to the canvas where even the casual observer can experience them. In paintings such as “Racing Melee” and “Neck and Neck” one can feel the thrill of the race and the ocean spray as the transitional light breaks through the clouds overhead, while viewing “Southport Waterfront”, “surf ” and “Hey, Wait for Me” elicit almost immediate feelings of calm and tranquility.

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It almost seems a shame that we are often expected, or at least questioned, in our youth as to what we want to do with our lives. Although, it really is a natural inquiry considering that becoming proficient in any given field can take considerable time.

The problem for many is that life’s potential passions don’t always reveal themselves until we’ve had an opportunity to experience them, sort of like sampling different pies before settling on a favorite. Those rare few who at an early age find their life’s calling are truly lucky because all too often by the time

tinues to lead, perhaps his greatest attribute; the one that sets him apart is his selflessness. Leigh continues to give of his time freely, serving as an eager mentor to aspiring artists from university students to hobbyists. But then, as meaningful a pursuit as mentoring is, he is ultimately so much more than even that, because Leigh provides an ageless inspiration. After all, what else could define beginning a new career in a pursuit you love while already having lived a life that can only be described as full?

Leigh Rodenbough is tes-

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life” - Confucius inspiration takes us, life seems to have gotten in the way. What often remains is a sense of incompleteness and feeling of missed opportunity. Luckily for Leigh, and us as well, the passion he had for art in his youth has not only remained, it seems to have intensified at a point in his life when he actually has the time to devote to it, but make no mistake, Leigh is not retired.

No, Leigh Rodenbough has not retired he simply changed careers. Since leaving the law he has regularly created as many as three hundred works each year, that’s no retirement. But then “theoretically” neither does Leigh work, because as Confucius once said “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”. It’s more of a labor of and in Leigh’s case his love of art shows through to everyone he meets. Visit with him at his studio inside Uptown Artworks* or chat with him at Ambleside Gallery** on a First Friday and you’re not only in for an inspiring conversation; you get an art education to boot.

As incredible an artist as Leigh is and as intriguing a life as he con-

tament to the fact that inspiration can happen upon us at any time and whenever it does, it’s never too late to act upon it. Yes, sometimes life can get in the way of our dreams and aspirations. Not that the path we’ve chosen is any less fulfilling, it may simply leave us wondering from time to time what might have happened had we continued those piano lessons or followed up with woodworking. Whatever our passions are, in those moments we find ourselves wondering what might have been, all we really need to do is think of Leigh to realize that it’s never too late to follow our dreams.

For more on the life and works of Leigh Rodenbough stop by Ambleside Gallery* where you can view some of his pieces and pick up his book Timeless Reflections. *Uptown Artworks is located at 1007 Arnold Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336) 255-6345 **Ambleside Gallery is located at 528 South Elm Street Greensboro, NC 27406 (336) 275-9844.

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Greensboro’s

wordsmiths Angela Kelsick

in the balance I stood at the balance of the universe Wondering where the reason was It changes like the weather does No certain time of beginning to end So many I thought were my friends and then…

It remains to be continued, construed or misconstrued Contemplation over what’s been viewed… so many so damn time consumed Playing games with dudes packing big tools for you?

Games of strife then a lose for who?

Breathe in life, then good times for who?

Once again this will continue, open my book and learn of this truth Turn to my love and feel his touch through, all that I am Feels so good, I don’t want to be nowhere else… just want to feel inside myself A bursting ball of energy dispersing through the atmosphere Dancing along the treetops just to eavesdrop on the silence of nature One with everything and myself, you and your mama Dreams and adventure without drama Infinite love from the ultimate father Breathe it out, but breathe in first And drop At the balance of the universe.

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BECOMING A GIANT (from page 17)

Earley dated his love of art back to the age of 5 or 6. He started drawing from comic books that he read, but most importantly in the third grade, he went on a field trip to an art museum. As he looked at the exhibitions, he asked the teacher, “Who did this?” and she said “Artists”. Then she asked him “What do you want to be?” and he replied, “An Artist”.

From that point on, Earley wanted to do nothing but make art in his life; however, for the longest time, he did not know where artists came from and remained a mystery. At around 12 years old, he and his friends would sit on the stoop and they would draw. Someone would ask them what are they doing and they said, “We are going to become artists!”

In high school, Earley’s childhood friend, Jimmy Macniel, went to the school of Music and Art, “One of the greatest schools in the world” Earley claimed. He came to Earley and said “Come here, I want to show you something.”Macniel brought Earley to his school and had shown him all the etchings, paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art students were making. He asked his

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parents and they refused to enroll him. He asked “Why?”, they answered “We couldn’t afford it!”

So afterwards, Early continued his education through the regular school systems and eventually started working in Manhattan. One day, his father told him “Either you go to school, [College] or get out of the house.”

Earley went to his boss who suggested, “Why don’t you take a look at the school around the corner?” Early replied, “That’s an art school? I thought is was a business school. Students always come dressed up.”, “That is because it is a school for fashion.”

The school was known as FIT, Fashion Institute of Technology and still stands in New York today. After enrolling in the school, Earley soon met Mrs. Frances Neady, who would be the biggest influence on Earley’s life.

Earley began working in design layout at a design firm and was asked by Mr. Grant, a colleague of Earley’s, to work with an up and coming designer. He worked with him doing illustrations and designs for the artist’s lounge in the client’s studio. The artist Earley was helping out was Calvin Klein. After some time illustrating with Klein, Earley’s name started circulating and people came to ask Earley if he would like to work for them.

At that time, Klein had been making a name

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for himself. He was gaining popularity and by the time Earley came back to New York to see a client, Klein was known as “one of the greatest designers of all time.”, which reflected on Early and his work.

Donald Earley, originally from Hempstead Long Island, went to FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) where he “learned to draw”.

He also taught at FIT, Cooper Union, and VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University).

In his career, he has done commission work for many well-established individuals such as Calvin Klein, New York Times, Eli Wallach, Nancy Littlefield, and many more. He has directed in motion pictures, TV production and also for theatrical organizations. Ultimately he went back to teaching at FIT and Cooper Union before working at VCU where he became the instructor or Joe Truxell and my instructor, Roy Carter. After teaching them and helping them grow, Earley still continued his work at VCU and does so to this day.

Before the formal interview, I spoke to Earley and Truxell about some of the projects I was going through and about my work.

They, and many other professional artists in the gallery that heard the conversation gave me some great and useful information. Talking to them reminded me of a conversation I had talking to Carter. He mentioned an old phrase known as “standing amongst giants.”

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He explained that the master of the field that you are working in are the “giants” that many revere, respect, and praise. These very people are usually the people you, the pupil, aspire to be and so you work towards their level and gain the same skills they acquired.

Once you reach a certain level when your mentor can no longer teach you, you then realize that you are at their level and can see further than they did. It is literally like climbing a giant so you can see everything and then some because you are on top of the giant.

THE GIANTS

Hence, the term Standing Amongst Giants” was created, and you can see everything, including what direction to go. What is best is that you use what you have learned from your mentor to continue to grow and prosper and in time, you yourself become the next “giant” to serve as a link on the chain of great people.

I say all of that to say this, I began to feel what that phrase is like after speaking to the man who taught my professor and another great mind who is a good friend and former classmate of Carter in the same room talking as if they were just ordinary people.

To me it was the greatest moment in my time in college and I gained more from it than any other memorable moments I had at A&T. It was as though I was standing amongst giants and heard them talk. So I took my sketch book and took notes on the things that they said that I could keep to become the next .

...To be Continued...

Story: Jordan T. Robinson Photography: Brittany C. Wright Photography: Chris R. Martin Produced by A&T students 27

visitors must eat T Bates

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f Jambalaya, Gumbo and a steaming plate of Shrimp & Grits has you longing for Louisiana, don’t panic. There’s no need to pile the family into the minivan and head south to the Big Easy, because the kick you crave is right here in Greensboro. Located at 1609 West Friendly Avenue, The Cajun Honeybee specializes in what they refer to as “Southern Food with a Cajun Kick”.

Owner Bianca Simmons has admitted being obsessed with food since she made her first dish of hot cheese sauce in fifth grade. Incorporating flavors and techniques from a family that spans Louisiana, Southern and Central Arkansas, and the Midwest, she perfected her favorite rustic, scratch-made dishes. Her partner, Shadrach Adams brings his own unique style and flavor to the kitchen, taking his inspirations and love of cooking from his native Africa and his father in particular.

Both Bianca and Shad earned their stripes in commercial kitchens and have brought their considerable talents together in the Cajun Honeybee. Neither satisfied with the options that were available here in Cajun style cooking (which really amounted to frozen grocery store entrées), they’ve envisioned and created a menu that has universal appeal.

While everyone I’ve spoken to has had nothing but rave reviews for their Decadent Jambalaya and equally enticing Gumbo, I compare ALL Cajun food to Shrimp and Grits.

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Although it sounds simple, a good plate of Shrimp and Grits is about as difficult to make properly as it is to find locally.

In this case however, Bianca and Shadrach have combined to create a dish I can literally write about. The Shrimp were generous in size yet tender and extremely flavorful without being overdone. The Cheese Grits were creamy but shy of being mushy with just the right balance of spice and heat. The combination was delicious and filling, yet remained humble and true to its Louisiana roots. I am happy to report that I have a new spot in Greensboro for Shrimp and Grits.

I must point out that The Cajun Honeybee offers “take-out only and delivery”, but that should not hinder you from making a pit spot on the way home. After all nothing spells a romantic night in like some spicy food. Besides, the kids will love it too and although we know that visitors must eat, nowhere does it say it can’t be in our home with a welcome break from the kitchen.

You may choose to try something other than Shrimp and Grits on your first visit; if only because I can’t make you try my favorite, but whatever you choose, from the Baked Chicken to the fried or Grilled Tilapia to the ever popular Jambalaya or Gumbo, know that it is authentic and true to its culture. So, the next time take-out is on the menu, remember The Cajun Honeybee, because all takeout is not created equal.

1609 West Friendly Ave. Greensboro, NC 27403 336.275.7555 www.thecajunhoneybee.com

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The Biggest Little Month

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(from page 15)

ow I want to focus on Heart Health. The American Heart Association (AHA) is a non-profit organization in the United States that fosters appropriate cardiac care in an effort to reduce disability and deaths caused by cardiovascular disease and stroke. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency that has made significant inroads into heart health right here in Greensboro. Their mission: “Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke” is summed up nicely by their motto “Learn and Live”.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America and heart problems affect every one of us either directly or through people that we know. The American Heart Association (AHA) launched National Wear Red Day® in 2003 to bring attention to cardiovascular disease, which claimed the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year. In 2004, the AHA created Go Red for Women to educate women on heart disease, help women come together to show their support, and increase funding for heart disease research and treatments for those in need.

Since the first National Wear Red Day 10 years ago, tremendous strides have been made in the fight against heart disease in women, including:

21% fewer women dying from heart disease

23% more women aware that it’s their No. 1 health threat

Publishing of gender-specific results, established differences in symptoms and responses to medications and

women-specific guidelines for prevention and treatment

Legislation to help end gender disparities So, did you know that in your lifetime, your heart will perform more physical work than any other muscle in your body? Your heart truly takes care of you, so it’s important that you care for your heart.

In 2013, resolve to make heart health a priority. It doesn’t have to be anything life-changing, and in fact, small changes are often more effective. Something is better than nothing! Here are some tips for improving your heart health:

-Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of premature death. For one, it increases the risk for heart

disease. In addition, when you stop smoking, you help lower your blood pressure and lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol.

-Avoid second-hand smoke. For women, we know that even being around smoke increases the risk for heart disease and

death. Avoid it whenever possible.

-Know your numbers. You owe it to yourself to take an active role in your own health. Find out your blood pressure,

cholesterol and weight and discuss those numbers with your doctor. With his or her help, you can monitor any changes and

make informed decisions.

-Process out processed foods. In 2013, try switching out just one processed food for something you make yourself.

By switching over from processed foods, which are usually high in sodium, you can make a difference in your blood pressure

and overall health.

-Get moving. It’s easy to be sedentary, but small steps can make a big difference. Try parking further away, using the stairs

whenever possible or simply taking a walk after lunch; even standing up every hour or so and stretching can help. Try

to get 20 to 30 minutes of moderate activity a day or 150 minutes a week.

-Get your friends and family on board. Women are the caretakers. Whether we’re taking care of our parents, our children, our

partners or looking out for friends, we have a unique ability to influence changes in diet and exercise. You can impact a lot of

people just through your own choices.

-Spread awareness. It still comes as a surprise to many people when they learn that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women.

It’s up to all of us to inform our friends and family of the risks and the actions a person can take to minimize those risks.

This list is not meant to be an all-inclusive, but it is a start. Each year they host multiple events in the Greensboro area to bring awareness and education about our key issues and to raise support for invaluable heart disease and stroke research. Join in the fight against heart disease and stroke by attending one of our events or volunteering, including joining You’re the Cure, hosting a speaker at your next event, distributing materials at a health fair, finding a CPR Class, or contributing to their online communities. Here’s the chance to make a real difference!

Let’s make 2013 a happier and healthier year for all of us, and while we’re at it, let’s start TODAY! For more information please contact: The American Heart Association 101 Centreport Dr., Suite 103 Greensboro, NC 27409 Phone: (336) 668-0167 fax: (336) 605-2970 29

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Ambleside Gallery