Spring 2018 by We Are Greensboro

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spring 2018

gatherings gatherings

gatherings

the what and the where

The cool community of greensboro

We Might as well move to opa-locka

/wearegreensboro online issues

issuu.com/wearegreensboro

ISSUE: 27 EDITORIAL Managing director /editor

Tony Bates | wearegreensboro@gmail.com creative director

Arthur Bates Jr. | abates@wearegreensboro.com Non-profit coordinator

Veronica Bates | vlb@wearegreensboro.com

ADVERTISING advertising manager

John Graham | jgraham@wearegreensboro.com

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ÂŠ We Are Greensboro 2012-2018 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.

Small Talk

Why Opa-Locka and More

n page 7 we discuss the theory that if we do not support our community, our “local” community in particular, then we might as well move somewhere else. In truth, that “somewhere” could be “anywhere” but for arguments sake, we point to Opa-Locka Florida. Why Opa-Locka you say? Simply put, this city of 4.2 square miles located in northeastern Miami-Dade County is reportedly so figuratively damaged and literally corrupt that quite a few of the 16,000 residents and many more in the surrounding area want to have the city abolished all together. In other words, if we don’t care enough about our community to make a few small non-invasive changes to how we allocate money we are already planning to spend; we might as well move to a place where no one seems to care. Page 8 finds super contributor Jasmine Nehilla describing just how cool Greensboro truly is while telling us of her love for the community she maintains a connection with to this day. Get-togethers, events, parties… however we refer to them there’s a lot to be said for the public gatherings that bring us all together. From First Fridays through the new North Carolina Folk Festival and all the fun in between, starting on page 10 there’s revelry enough for everyone as we explore some of the larger gatherings Greensboro has to offer. On page 17 we have WAGpics of a few of our friends from 205 Collaborative; a shared studio/gallery space for over 30 artists. We previously met one of the artists, Mia Walser, in “The Story of Mia” in our spring 2017 issue. These few pictures are but a small introduction to the rest; however, in our next issue we will be going in-depth to meet everyone from 205 Collaborative, where we will explore their versatility and creativity in detail. Then there are the WAGpics on page 18 from the 7th Anniversary Hand-2-Hand Spring Market that was held on March 18th in the WAMRev Gallery at Revolution Mill. With multiple rooms of vendors, discussions, DIY workshops and more, the entire spectrum of Hand 2 Hand events are a great way to find unique and fascinating crafts, learn more about exciting projects and of course, meet new people like the ones we have here. One small bit of advice, follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/handtohandmarketnc and join Hand 2 Hand at their next event. Last, but never least, we’d like to thank each and every one of you for your invaluable and continued support. We’ve said it before, will say it again and mean it from the bottom of our hearts… We truly appreciate you! Without you there would be no us! Thanks again!!!

T o ny

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Contents

Move to Opa-Locka

Th e Cool Commun i t y 08

gatherings

wagPics

Small Talk

We Might As Well Move...

The Cool Community

Find out why we don’t want to move to Opa-Locka and other points of interest in this issue.

If we will not engage and support our local community, we might as well move to somewhere like Opa-Locka Fl.

Greensboro is one cool place to live Jasmine Nehilla tells us why in her love story about the place we call home.

Gatherings

WAGPics - 205 Collaborative

WAGPics - Hand 2 Hand Market

Life is better when we come together and enjoy it as a community. Our city offers much in the way of gatherings, here are a few options

A visit to the 205 Collaborative left a great impression! Here are a few pics until a full spotlight in our next issue.

Another of the fantastic craft markets at Revolution Mill... Another not to be missed! Wonderful crafts, wonderful people... Win-Win!!

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Carriage House 2274 Golden Gate Dr. 336. 545.3003 • linneasboutique.com

Antiques & Home Decor

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Vera’s Threads 2274 Golden Gate Dr. • 336.545.3003 linneasboutique.com

We might as well move to

Opa-Locka

Tony Bates

ecisions, decisions, decisions, each day we make hundreds of them, many without so much as a thought. From choosing the time we get out of bed (contrary to popular belief, hitting the snooze button is but one option), until we decide when to end our day back in it, we are making choices. As rational beings ingrained with self-preservation, most of these choices will be beneficial (or at least not harmful) to us. So, why is it that so many of us opt to ignore an easy choice that can be of immense value to us? Why then, do we shop outside of our community?

We live in a time when every dollar that goes to local salaries, our schools, our street repairs and other infrastructure projects, community development, local events and even many of the public services we receive is more valuable than at any other time in recent history. We can no longer look to outside sources for the same type of support for our community that we enjoyed in the past. This problem, and make no mistake, this is a problem, also holds true for local art of every genre, artists of every style, farmers of any type, non-profit organizations, in addition to retail and wholesale businesses alike; when we support our local businesses, when we “keep it local”, we are helping ourselves, our families, our friends and our community.

It is commonly understood throughout economic circles that every $100 spent at a locally owned, independent business returns approximately $68 back to the community through city and local taxes, wages, and the purchase of Only we control our valuable resources, only supplies from other locally owned businesses, we determine how our precious time and hard etc. Compare that to the $45 average returned earned money are spent. This is our commuby “big box” stores and it’s easy to see the huge nity; therefore it is incumbent upon each of us benefit of keeping it local. Twenty-three cents to make a genuine effort towards the support more for every dollar, $23 for every $100, $230 for every $1000 or make no mistake, this is a problem $230,000 more for every million dollars spent. of local businesses whenever possible; you can Imagine what our community can do with that certainly believe that residents in other commutype of additional money. nities across this country are supporting theirs. Examined through what is called the “Local Greensboro and the surrounding areas have Multiplier Effect (LME)” the direct, indirect, some of the best of everything. Locally, we have and induced impacts of spending locally are world class boutiques, restaurants, performers, quite amazing artists, photographers, shopping, and farming of almost every imaginable type and there • Direct impact is spending done by is so much more. When we finally make that a business in the local economy to operate the important decision to “KEEP IT LOCAL”, business, including inventory, utilities, equipwe are not only greatly increasing the flow of ment and pay to employees. money into our local economy, we are saying that we have pride in our city and what it offers, • Indirect impact refers to the conwe are saying that we believe in the people here ventional multiplier that happens as dollars the and want to help them even as we are helping local business spends at other area businesses ourselves, we are saying that we care. And if re-circulate. we don’t support the business community that is the life’s blood of our city, well, we might as • Induced impact refers to the adwell move to Opa-Locka. ditional consumer spending that happens as employees, business owners and others spend their income in the local economy.

“

While things have been heading in a decidedly better direction since they hit rock bottom, we all know that economies throughout the country, the world in fact, are still struggling. 07

c an recall a time when I loathed Greensboro. The agitation was never personal; I simply needed a change of scenery. The curry accented walkways of Tate Street, the hurried bustle on UNCG's campus as 2:00p promptly approached and the benches outside of Yum Yums were constant reminders that I developed a dream here. Embarking on new adventures and continuing to discover an even cooler and weirder me was imperative now. I reached a breaking point; where reveling at the idea of being safely anonymous in a new city with new people was a no-longer-acceptable line on my wish-list. Leaving Greensboro needed to happen. It was so vital that my fiancĂŠ and I believed the series of unfortunate events that occurred throughout almost the entire year of 2013 was the universe giving us a nice shove out the door (way sooner than we planned). And it wasn't until I returned from Atlanta that I really missed Greensboro. I came back and realized Greensboro is an amazing city filled with even more amazing people and I was thankful to have been a resident to such a progressive community. "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways..."

The Cool Community of Greensboro: a lov e sto ry

Jasmine Nehilla Contributing Writer

magining Greensboro: When I shut my eyes and envision Greensboro, plenty of people, places, and memories surge from my heart. As I stroll onto Tate Street, my inner-foodie overrides any previous plans that may have been set and urges me to grab a Mixed Bowl and a bubble tea (amongst other scrumptious eats) from my former second residence, Boba House Vegetarian Restaurant (332 Tate Street). The friendly and earthy staff at Boba House is family to me, so I make it a point to catch up when I'm in town. Additionally, there is NO place like Boba House outside of Greensboro; I've discovered it's a tiresome journey searching for delicious budget-considerate vegetarian/vegan eateries. And Valentine's Day! Boba House is the go-to place for your V-day plans. Already outfitted as a charming date night venue, the energy that fills the restaurant on the holiday of love is perfect for sharing an amorous night with a special friend.

Staying on Tate Street, I have to run across the street to pizzeria/live music venue, New York Pizza (337 Tate Street), to see what bands are playing for the night and give hugs to my favorite staff members. NYP welcomes live independent music of all genres and provides a platform for visual artists by commissioning art installations that also garnish their walls. The building hugs the corner of Tate Street and serves pizza into the wee hours of the morning. Any local restaurant that stays open late is "okay in my book" as Stuntman Mike would say. By now I'm bouncing off the walls, ready to visit my derby family, Greensboro Roller Derby (www.greensbororollerderby. com). Catch me and my fiance on a bout day and our excitement meter is turned up to colossal. Follow us to the Greensboro Coliseum and you'll be sure to see our faces covered in paint, screaming our lungs out for the All Star team, Gate City Roller Girls and my home-team the Mad Dollies. It's one thing to keep up with updates and watch this skater-ran

Image of Jasmine by Heather Lashun

community via their website, but it's an adrenaline pumping experience to see these amazing athletes in action. My love for Greensboro doesn't end there and neither does the adventure. Greensboro Roller Derby usually houses their special after-parties at the local watering hole, Westerwood Tavern (508 Guilford Ave). Tucked away in the neighborhood of Westerwood, lives a locally owned dive bar that attracts a community of hilariously fascinating characters who enjoy indulging in the company of Greensboro's finest of citizens. The faces behind the bar are my favorite part of Westerwood, but I can't deny the Jello shots are pretty tasty and occasionally support a non-profit organization. The commonality within just a few of my favorite places, & spaces & people to play with mentioned above is the sense of community; each of my aforementioned loves, support nonprofit organizations and local enterprises. This is what I love most about Greensboro and it is a rare find! Supporting your local community is how you enhance your future. Supporting a small business, independent artist, or local sports team is way bigger than the tangible item you purchased. You are investing in the hours of trial and error, fits of frustration, and thousands of failures. You are acquiring the upchuck bile of the terrifying guttural feeling that comes with following your dream. You are obtaining the overwhelming chill-bumps of joy and success. Already support local businesses? Well, keep on keeping on! New to this idea? Start by supporting one of the businesses mentioned here today! A home away from home, Greensboro will always have a piece of my heart; the community makes the city exponentially cooler. To my Greensboro family, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I miss you--A little too much, a little too often, and little more every day.â&#x20AC;?

When was the last time you visited State Street? No, not just a quick drive through, but a nice relaxing look. If it’s been a while (or if you’ve never been), then you have no idea what you’re really missing. The shopping, the dining, the spas, salons and yoga... things here are better than ever and keep evolving and growing. Here is where you find that wonderful spot right between the tried and familiar and the fresh and exciting. With new places opening all the time and the vibe here better than ever, isn’t it time you took...

a stroll down State

Street

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Eclectic by Nature experience the magic & escape the ordinary

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Whether it’s in a comfortably familiar setting, one that’s new yet somewhat familiar or perhaps even completely unknown and outside our normal comfort zones, coming together with our neighbors is undeniably one of the best ways to meet and learn about new people, exchange ideas and of course have fun. With more than enough destinations to keep even the most ardent voyager occupied, Greensboro has immeasurable opportunities for individual or group exploration; but perhaps even more importantly, our city has plenty to offer in the way of large social interactions as well. The temperate climate of the southeast with our relatively short winters and extended springs and autumns provides the ideal backdrop for outdoor community get-togethers. In keeping with our ever present “community” theme, it’s probably definitely time past time we talk about few of our favorite...

By the Numbers, By the Day

ggatherings atherings

here’s something sturdy and dependable about it; something reliable that does the heart good; something to which we can happily look forward on a regular basis. Like full moons, these events occur on relatively the same day each month. Once a week might be a bit much, but monthly makes it missed just enough to anticipate its return.

First Friday On the first Friday of each month, in what Downtown Greensboro Inc. (DGI) refers to as “downtown Greensboro's monthly open house”, participating galleries, shops and museums stay open past their normal closing times (until 9pm or later). With many offering some type of refreshment and/or entertainment, visitors are encouraged to stroll, explore and experience first10

Tony Bates

hand what those galleries, shops and museums have to offer as well as how active and vibrant Downtown has become as it continues to evolve. The First Friday events occur year-round, even on colder or wetter evenings. Perhaps one of the liveliest and most fascinating places to visit in any weather is the Greensboro Cultural Center as these nights see the center truly come to life. Abuzz with activity any given First Friday finds galleries and event spaces throughout the center such as GreenHill, African American Atelier, City Arts and others pull out all the stops as they invite visitors to experience their latest exhibitions. While there is much to see and do in the colder months, spring, summer and even fall are considered by many to be the most exciting times to attend First Fridays.

National Folk Festival revelers join in the fun

Greensboro City Market / Third Friday

a whole. For more information about how to become involved, vend or simply attend for a great time, visit: gsocitymarket.com, their Facebook page: facebook.com/GSOCityMarket or contact them directly via email at: GSOCityMarket@gmail.com.

205 Collaborative / Second Saturday It may be a newcomer to the list of happenings in and around Greensboro, but Second Saturdays at 205 Collaborative is quickly gaining in popularity, and for good reason. Located at 205 S. Lyndon St., between E. Washington and E. Market Streets, the 205 Collaborative provides studio space for 30 artists whose works in various media can regularly be seen in the two in-house galleries (and of course, their own private shows). The works here are truly unbelievable, both in terms of the talent it takes to create them and the variety of works you’ll find. At 205, studios of painters, sculptors and wood workers share the collaborative space with metal workers and potters, while an instrument maker and glass/mixed media artists have found a home here as well.

“

Being more comfortable outside, Center City Park blooms with various events including musicians and a regular “drum circle”, while all along South Elm Street various performers keep revelers entertained. The entire area from the Cultural Center through South End to Gate City Blvd. hums with activity as music and aromas waft from local venues and restaurants. Street side parking is not enforced after 6pm and municipal lots are free from 6-9pm with a flat $2 thereafter. Whether you choose to stay at one location each First Friday or enjoy a “self-guided walking tour” throughout Downtown, there is something each month for everyone to enjoy. The First Friday program is led by Downtown Greensboro Incorporated in partnership with ArtsGreensboro. Visit firstfridaygreensboro.org for additional information.

The first Friday of each month does not have exclusive rights to large monthly events in downtown Greensboro. Every third Friday (formerly third Thursday) from May thru August, the parking lot at 219 West Lewis Street, just south of the railroad tracks on South Elm St. and in front of fat Tuesday’s restaurant comes alive with the Greensboro City Market. Since its inception, vendors (many of them lo- relax and enjoy each other’s company cal to Greensboro) offering unique clothing, intricate crafts and We’ve already written an article about one resident, Mia beautiful hand-made jewelry combine with an eclectic variety Walser (Fall 2017) and have more individual and group articles of food vendors and lively entertainment in a wonderful event planned as well. On a more personal level, I can’t say enough that has continued to gain in popularity with each season for about this space and the talent residing here, because quite honwhat is truly “a fun for the entire family” evening. Admission estly, I have never seen such variety on such an exceptional scale to the GSO City Market is free and open to all and has quickly in one place before. become a welcome addition to Downtown and Greensboro as 11

Jen in Strong Light by Sue Foell

Ambleside Gallery 528 South Elm St. Greensboro, NC 27406 336.275.9844 â&#x20AC;¢ www.amblesidearts.com

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515 S. Elm St • 336.370.1050 areamod.com

If you plan nothing else for a Saturday all year, spend at least one “Second Saturday” at 205 Collaborative; you’ll most certainly be glad you did and most certainly want to return. They are open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 10am to 4pm, but interested parties can also contact them to schedule a private visit via the email form on their website: 205collaborative.org or via Facebook at facebook. com/205collaborative.

Annually Speaking Each of us has our favorite time of year. Holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and of course the annual celebrations we eagerly anticipate to commemorate each. While sometimes smaller, more intimate gatherings do nicely, there are times when a larger party among the masses is just what’s needed.

Fun Fourth Spanning two days this year, the Fun Fourth celebration is routinely one of the largest annual gatherings Greensboro has to offer. Festivities begin on the 3rd, continuing on the 4th and followed by a Fireworks Concert that evening, that gets folks out of the house and into the spirit. An event that stretches down South Elm Street from Center City Park to Gate City Blvd., the annual Fun Forth celebration brings the community together with live music, dance, food and plenty of vendors. There are many other days to discuss whatever we do or don’t agree about regarding our nation. But, whether you choose to walk the entire route or find a nice shady spot to relax and take it all in, Fun Forth provides the means for everyone to get together make new friends and celebrate what’s good about our country. Visit funfourthfestival.org for additional event details.

Summer Solstice Their mission is “to create an experience for our festivalgoers that blends local artisans, performers and budding entrepreneurs with a little bit of magic, opening up imaginations to the possibilities in each of us.” In this, its 14th year, the annual Greensboro Summer Solstice Celebration continues to fulfill that aim on a grand scale. Held this year on Saturday June 23rd, this year’s event will see a wide variety of musicians, dancers

and other performers as well as over 100 vendors and over 9000 attendees. Each previous year has seen attendance grow and the celebration become more and more vibrant, and this year promises to be better than ever. With the delectable food, whimsical fanfare, vibrant colors, lively and melodic sounds and positively electric spirit there is no better way to celebrate the longest day of the year and the official beginning of summer fun than with a lively community celebration. Located once again at the Lindley Park & Greensboro Arboretum at 401 Ashland Dr. (adjacent to W. Market St.), adult admission is $5 with children 12 and under free. Come early, dress fancifully (or at least comfortably) and plan on a truly magical day. For additional information visit the Greensboro Summer Solstice website at: greensborosummersolstice.org or find them on Facebook at: facebook.com/GreensboroSummerSolstice.

North Carolina Folk Festival After a wildly successful three year run the National Folk Festival has moved on. But FEAR NOT! The City of Greensboro in conjunction with good people at Arts Greensboro have created the North Carolina Folk Festival to fill the inevitable void that would have existed had they not taken action. Yes, the same folks that bring us the Greensboro cultural center, First Fridays, 17Days and a host of other events and programs have taken what was certain to be a sad and rather ominous feeling autumn for many and turned it into what they describe as “a FREE, 3-day outdoor celebration of cultural roots and heritage”. The first iteration of this new annual festival will be held in downtown Greensboro, September 7th - 9th. Of course, due to overwhelming success of the National Folk Festival much of what made it so popular will remain. While much of the eventual preparations and numbers have yet to be finalized, it’s safe to say that we will once again have the opportunity to watch hundreds of performers on multiple stages with thousands of fellow attendees. As in prior years, downtown Greensboro will be almost totally closed off to traffic so moving among the stages, family areas and various food options will be safe.

Much more information is available at the NC Folk festival website: ncfolkfestival.com, and more is being added regularly. Suffice to say that all you need to really know to make this a “must attend” event is the dates and a pair of comfortable shoes.

Ultimately Ultimately, gatherings like those listed here or anytime folks get together to relax and enjoy each other’s company is a good thing. We have an opportunity to meet new people, get re-acquainted with old friends, bring our community together and quickly realize that we truly have so much more in common than could ever come between us. Talking is great, dancing is better…maybe. The point is that we should gather together every now and again to find out. These are obviously only a few of the many gatherings Greensboro has to offer. While they may be the biggest and based on sheer numbers could be considered the most popular, they are by no means the only options available. With weekly events like “Food Truck Fridays” in Center City Park,

3 the upcoming season of movies in the park (last year “Spartan Cinema”) which will likely return to Lebaur Park or the various exhibitions and markets at Revolution Mill, people who prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings will undoubtedly find plenty to enjoy as well. We’ve listed the online resources for additional information about the gatherings we’ve mentioned, however, if you have something to add, please feel free to email us at: wearegreensboro@gmail.com or find (and of course “like”) us on Facebook: facebook.com/wearegreensboro. We will try to keep up, but we need your help. If you are having or even hear about a gathering you feel others would enjoy, by all means let us know and we will do our best to help spread the news. Visiting any one of these events is sure to be a good time, but of course visiting them all is certain to be better. We’ll be at all of these gatherings, usually taking the pictures seen in the last few pages of each issue. We would REALLY love to see each and every one of you there too.

4 5 Images 1) Fun Fourth visitors along S. Elm St.

2) First Friday visitors at Ambleside Gallery 3) An evening concert at last year’s National Folk Festival

Summer Solstice Celebration 4) Participants join in the dance

7 6

5) Face painting is a must! 6) Our friend, Tavane Taylor of Eclectic By Nature 7) Shopping? Browsing? Both are fun!

17 15

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wagPics

Just a few friends from 205 Collaborative, but there are many more. In our next issue we will meet them all and have a look at some of the amazing art. Fell free to contact them now for a head start.

205 Collaborative

205 S Lyndon St, Greensboro, NC 27401

For additional information including how to tour the 205 Collaborative and/or meet ther artists, visit their website at:205collaborative.org or find them on Facebook at: facebook.com/205collaborative19

wagPics

Hand-2-Hand Spring Market 2018 Revolution Mill

For additional information, including how to become a vendor at this wonderful event, contact the Hand 2 Hand Market at handtohandmarket.com or find them on Facebook at: facebook.com/handtohandmarketnc 19

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