Dec2014/Jan2015 by We Are Greensboro

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dec 2014/jan 2015

Here’s An Idea

KEEP IT LOCAL

here’s an idea

a 10% 15% Solution

the artist bloc

where creative minds meet

A Holiday Hypothesis

the best resolution...ever!!!

We Are Keep It Local

Volume: 03

ISSUE: 06

EDITORIAL

wearegreensboro.com

Managing director /editor

Tony Bates | tbates@wearegreensboro.com

creative director

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

Veronica Bates | vlb@wearegreensboro.com staff writer

Carol Bates Morris | cmore@wearegreensboro.com

5553 W Market St • 336. 355.9260 • sarahskabobshop.com

ADVERTISING advertising manager

John Graham | jgraham@wearegreensboro.com

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

titles and graphics Pryme Creative Solutions www.prymecreative.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND FEEDBACK contact@wearegreensboro.com

All images are the property of We Are Greensboro, unless otherwise noted

Eclectic by Nature experience the magic & escape the ordinary

407 State Street • 336. 373.0733 • eclecticbynature.com

Cleopatra’s

Authentic Egyptian Restaurant

The Westover Gallery of Shops • 1310 Westover Terrace 336.274.5003 • cleopatrasrestaurant.com

© 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.

invest in greensboro • keep it local 02

A Word (or two) From

the editor Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may well be some of everyone’s favorite things, but our list also includes those independent, locally owned businesses that give so much back to our city. Our advertisers could have chosen to market their businesses anywhere, yet they chose to work with us, believing in our message, and in turn supporting our community. As some of our favorite things, they all offer excellent products and services and carry our highest endorsement. When you try them, and we sincerely hope you will, we feel certain they will quickly become among your favorites as well. These are your neighbors, friends and members of your community… Stop in, say hi, and tell them you saw them in We Are Greensboro.

530 South Elm Street Greensboro, NC 27406

In the “South End” Historic District 336.389.9934 • www.julesantiques.com

336.574.0100 336-274-2003 500 State Street • pinkribbonchic.com

Ambleside Gallery

Original Paintings • Sculpture • Custom Framing • Restoration

528 S. Elm St Greensboro•NC•27406 336.275.9844 • www.amblesidearts.com

Footwear, Apparel & Accessories 507 State Street • 336.275.7645 • lillobella.com

501 State Street • 336.274.4533 • YamamoriLtd.com

Thank you all for your continued support. From all of us to all of you, have a WONDERFUL holiday season!!

Tony *See more of our favorite things on page 19 03

04 04

Contents Here’s an Idea A Holiday Hypothesis 08

Here’s an Idea... Keep it Local Looking for a way to give back to the community that will be beneficial without breaking the bank? Well, here’s an idea...

Stolen The Artist Bloc Christmas? 15

A Holiday Hypothesis

Jasmine Nehilla has thrown down the gauntlet and challenged us to continue becoming our better selves... What a perfect resolution!

The Artist Bloc

More than a gallery, coffee shop & venue, at The Artist Bloc creativity and talent have merged to create a special place where artists are free to do what artists do best...

Opa Locka

A Few of Our Favorite Things

Something’s been lost. Where we once embraced the magic, more and more often shoppers are foregoing any interaction with others to shop alone...online. This can’t be good.

We may as well do this if we don’t want Greensboro to thrive

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may be on the list, but since we LOVE to support our local community, here are a few more of our favorite things

or e

A Stolen Christmas?

GREENSBORO SCIENCE CENTER AQUARIUM MUSEUM ZOO

4301 Lawndale Dr • (336) 288-3769 • greensboroscience.org

2400 16th St • 336. 373.3272 greensborosportsplex.com 05

Here's an Idea

KEEP IT LOCAL Tony Bates

reensboro is a rare gem, that unique amalgamation of big city vitality and small town community; an idyllic yet uncommon combination to be sure. The distinctiveness of Greensboro, what gives it its flavor, is due in large part to the vibrant small business and art communities that thrive here. However, without our help these communities could vanish, taking with them the heart of Greensboro itself. Likewise, what would Greensboro be without the farms that dot the surrounding countryside or colleges and universities that call the “Gate City” home? This is not some rhetorical question with no basis in the realm of possibilities. On the contrary, the hypothetical scenario brought to mind here has enormous potential to become reality. Quite simply, if we as consumers continue to bypass small locally owned shops and boutiques on our way to large, corporate one-stop mega-stores then the need for and by extension the existence of small shops would cease, with the same holding true for the arts community, local farms, institutions of higher learning; in general, everything that makes Greensboro unique. But this doesn’t have to happen and the power to ensure that it doesn’t lies within each of us. Here’s an idea, let’s help ourselves. In a nutshell the theory is this, if each of us can commit 10% of what we spend to locally owned, independent businesses we will greatly improve our economy. This is not a random determination with no evidence to support it. Cities all across the country have already begun to calculate what the benefit to local economies would be if everyone shifted just 10% of what they will already spend. At the Arizona website “www.shiftarizona.com” even non-residents can use the calculator on the site to determine the additional amount that would recycle back into the local economy if they committed just 10%. For instance if someone shifted 10% of a $5,000.00 spending budget (food, clothing, artwork, whatever they would normally buy) they would add an additional $115.00 to the local economy. Based on this accepted formula, if just 100,000 of the roughly 280,000 residents in Greensboro made the 10% shift, the local economy would be boosted by approximately $11,500,000*. That’s right, if a little more than 1/3 of the people in Greensboro made slight changes to the way they spend the money that they already need to spend, there would be eleven and a half million additional dollars available in the local budget. This is not small change. How many roads could be fixed or schools could be properly staffed and supplied with $11,500,000? How many additional police officers or firefighters would $11,500,000 pay for or how much could each of our tax bills be reduced if this were to become a reality?

“

There’s no magic to how this concept is possible

There’s no magic to how this concept is possible, in fact it’s an idea that we’ve discussed here before. Although the figures vary slightly, it is a widely accepted fact, verified by numerous state impact studies that up to 45% of money spent at locally owned/independent businesses is recycled back into the local economy compared to 14% for large chains and franchises. To be fair, other studies have place the figures as close as 68% (local) compared to 45% (national chain) depending upon the community make-up, but still that’s a minimum 23% more for the community, amounting to as much as $68 of every $100 spent. Regardless, the benefit is clear, spending locally helps and North Carolina is already on board with this concept. NC State University sponsors a website committed to this idea. “www.ncsu.edu/project/nc10percent” proposes that each of us commit 10% to buying locally grown food and they will even help track the results and keep participants abreast of the progress. What’s more, the benefits don’t just stop at the initial increase. Through what is known a “multiplier effect” the initial money recycled into the economy continues to be returned, again and again. For instance, local businesses create more jobs and support more local suppliers than chains (per dollar). The additional jobs then pay employees who spend those wages, in turn creating the need for more goods and services and in turn more jobs and so on and so on. Monies spent locally remain in the community longer and have greater benefit and the beauty of it is that it won’t cost us any thing extra. On any given day the masses drift in and out of Walmart, Target, Macy’s and the rest of the “big box” stores found in almost every city. Each with our own reasons, we search for sales, and of course the convenience of various items in one place. But what do we give up? Instead of making an extra stop or two to visit a locally owned store, we opt to buy the artwork for our living room from the same store we purchased our toilet seat from. Are we really to believe that the best artwork for the price will be found here? Are we truly getting the best quality or price? There are benefits to having the availability of large big-box stores around and no one is suggesting that we avoid them all together. But 10% is not asking a lot, it’s only one out of every ten purchases. (continued on pg. 16) *10% of $5000 = $500..multiplied by the additional (approx) 23% more that returns to the community vs. chain stores 07

A Holiday Hypothesis Jasmine Nehilla

Every year on NPR I catch the story of the anon Secret Santa. It’s a true account of a man garbed in a red hat who approaches complete strangers and delivers them crisp $100 bills in the most unsuspecting places. The history of Secret Santa began in the ‘70s with a homeless man. Hungry and penniless, he entered a diner and sat. The diner’s cook noticed him, reached down, appeared to pick up a $20 bill off of the ground and said, “I think you dropped this son.” Thankful, the homeless man pledged to pay it forward. And sure enough, he became wealthy in telecommunications and bePhoto courtesy of: Heather LaShun Photography gan giving money to strangers during the holidays. Before he died, he awarded over a million dollars. His legacy has conhe holidays are in full effect. We’re helping our son with his science fair project tinued on as Secret Santas anonymously call in from all that he terribly fumbled—procrastination over the country. It’s a beautiful movement. Here’s the karma. And the hardest part for him was issue: once cookies are dispersed and gifts are given, we elaborating the steps of scientific method. just let the holiday cheer, the spirit of generosity and free We spent hours formulating a hypothesis which is writ- love dissipate only to be stirred up again in another 337 ten: “If _____[I do this] _____, then _____[this]_____ days. Why can’t we let this zeal for generosity continue will happen.” We concluded his hypothesis was correct on throughout the year? and he gleamed in excitement as he ate his experiment— we studied the relationship between different sugars and I challenge you to yeast when baking bread. He loves being right, I mean focus on channeling what 11-year-old doesn’t? As I’m writing this we’re finishyour holiday zest... ing up the experiment, rapidly billowing into Thanksgiving and it’s ugly step-sister Black Friday. I love a good sale or super clearance item as much as the next penny- As we close out the year, I invite you to reflect on how pincher. But with horror stories of shopper stampedes you can make this upcoming year better than the last. and overworked employees missing memorable family Instead of reserving your optimism and kindness for the time, Black Friday is my least favorite holiday event. It’s holidays, make alterations to give a little positivity each day. Rather than making resolutions for the New Year a contradiction of the “holiday cheer.” that you’ll abort before winter’s end, I challenge you to In the 28 days from Thanksgiving to December 25th, focus on channeling your holiday zest and become a betall over the country we let the holidays transform us. ter you. Make adjustments to complain less, shell out Somehow we find the time to adorn the exterior and in- compliments indiscriminately, and volunteer a helping terior of our homes with bright lights, menorahs, rein- hand more often. Simply put, you’ll feel better. Your atdeer and cut pine trees. We set budgets to ensure each titude will be better. Ergo, you’ll be a better person. I’ve family member, co-worker and acquaintance receives a heard it takes 21 days to form a habit. Now that you’re wrapped or bagged trinket. We’re more accepting, loving, contemplating this challenge—my hypothesis is if you generous, thoughtful...and encourage others to follow start now, this holiday season will be your best one yet. suit. We tend to be a little more hopeful and complain You will find that your holiday cheer will become exa little less; all while continuing to go to work (probably ponentially greater because you’re focusing on enhanced overtime), attend to our families, maintain our homes for living. Your family dinner banter will be authentic and incoming guests and oh yeah...subsist. Not to mention, genuine, and for some, the holidays be a lot less painful we magically prepare an intricate family dinner involving and discouraging. When your day to day living becomes a magnitude of sides and desserts. Let’s face it, we are at your joyful holiday living and less bah humbug then you our productive prime during the holiday season! And yet, will appreciate the holidays even more. there is something counterfeit about it all.

“

Lillo Bella

- One of our very favorite shops on one of our very favorite streets. Take a stroll down State Street today

414 10

t’s been said that when passion meets opportunity, something wonderful happens. Such was the case when on a shopping trip to restock art supplies, muralist and visual arts professor at North Carolina A&T State University Darlene McClinton, discovered local favorite Addams Bookstore and Art Loft was due to close in less than two weeks. After recovering from the initial shock, McClinton realized this was the perfect opportunity to bring to life an idea she’s been passionate about for many years; and The Artist Bloc was born.

The Artist Bloc Watricia Shuler & LaTasha “Sunny” Gravely

As a graduate student at Howard University, Darlene encountered a problem familiar to many artists from time to time. While working on a painting, she experienced an “artist block”, becoming stifled and unable to tap into her creativity. However, dropping the “k”, changing the word to “bloc”, McClinton effectively took an individual hindrance and converted it into a communal positive. With “bloc” meaning quite literally a “meeting of the minds”, the intentional spelling of Artist Bloc is the very definition of the core principle of McClinton’s vision and the basis of the company’s slogan, “Where Creative Minds Meet”.

As the visionary, Darlene began recruiting specific individuals to make her dream a reality. First up, she inducted her long time college friend, Watricia Shuler, a Film Professor at Shaw University and independent filmmaker, to serve as Chief Operating Officer. Watricia’s first recommendation added another element to the vision. The incorporation a small coffee shop offering free Wi-Fi, sandwiches, beverages and an array of wine choices, encourages patrons to truly enjoy “The Artist Bloc” experience in an environment that is comfortable and artistically stimulating. This integration moved the business from an art supply store and fine arts gallery to an arts venue, equipped to serve the needs of the arts community as well as the coffeehouse and wine connoisseur. The primary goal of The Artist Bloc is to supply visual artists with quality materials at reasonable prices while operating as a place where artist of all genres can come together and engage in artistic activities and conversations. Additionally, local artist have the opportunity to exhibit artwork and display their talents. 12

A search for the perfect location ended with an intimate space located across from The Lofts on Lee and surrounded by the newly constructed UNCG facilities. Positioned in the heart of Greensboro, The Artist Bloc is conveniently nestled between two historical landmarks, Beef Burger and House of Health. Furthermore, in staying true to the company’s initial objective to service an under-served community, the business is merely a few

All images are courtesy of The Artist Bloc Above - Just a sampling of the works on rotational display throughout The Bloc Opposite left- Coka behind the bar Below - Jasmine painting blocks away from where Addam’s Bookstore and Art Loft was formerly located. Recognizing how important it was to introduce the new shop/ venue to the community and to ensure that the public stayed informed of the many events and activities they would be hosting, Darlene entrusted that responsibility to someone she knew was up to the challenge, recruiting LaTasha “Sunny” Gravely to become the final business partner and Chief Marketing Officer. The final element that would bring everything together, Sunny a fellow Howard University alumnus, professional artist and entrepreneur, was Darlene’s professor during her undergraduate matriculation at NC A&T State University. Since opening in August of 2014, the community of Greensboro has embraced The Artist Bloc with open arms. “The Bloc”, as it has been affectionately nicknamed, has become the premier location for art supplies, events and artist networking opportunities. Friends of The Bloc have chipped in adding their own special touches to the space. The tabletops were hand painted by local artist in the community including A&T professor Harriet Hoover, local muralist and painter Steven McIntyre and The Bloc’s very own Sunny Gravely. The store’s bar, stage, shelv-

ing and tables were hand build by Watricia’s father, Wallace D. Shuler III. Additionally, and perhaps one of the most welcome surprises The Artist Bloc received was community favorite, the famous Gravely Twins Chicken salad sandwich. Hugely popular, the sandwich sells out daily. (continued on pg. 20)

CORPORATE SECURITY INTERNATIONAL, INC.

GREENSBORO, NC • FAYETTEVILLE, NC 336.302.2421

524 S.Elm St. Greensboro, NC Triedandtruenc@gmail.com

336-274-1010 “like” our facebook page

Has the Grinch Internet Stolen

Christmas? Tony Bates

s much as we love our summers, the holiday season is regularly regarded as one of almost everyone’s favorite time of the year. For many of us, our hearts are filled with renewed faith. We decorate our homes and offices and just about anything else we can stick a bow, ribbon or reindeer antlers on. Children are anxious and bursting with anticipation almost like there’s an electrical charge in the air. And speaking of charges, we shop, we shop a lot.

father and daughter get on their computer at home and Google “gift ideas for grandmothers”. Selecting a website, they spend a few moments surfing sweaters, make their choice, buy it and have it shipped off directly to grandma. A nice gesture to be sure and they’ve saved time and perhaps even a few dollars, but what have they lost? If anything has made us lose our way during the holiday season, it’s the internet. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic tool and probably one of the greatest advancements in our history. However, even as we connect via social networking we are drifting apart in our other online usage, during which we are usually isolated. Detachment from society is unhealthy and choosing a gift for someone, especially a Christmas gift that is meant to epitomize love, seems cold, almost tragic. There is a better way.

Image of The Grinch by VashDounts7 They offer a tactile interaction that adds untold value to your gifts…It adds love. It’s really quite simple, what would make you feel more appreciated, more loved? A gift chosen online that the giver has never seen or something that they took the time to really “shop” for?

We shop so much in fact that in a time when a great many of us are still cautious about our finances, internet sales for this year’s Cyber Monday (the Monday following Thanksgiving) were up 30% over the same day last year, making it the biggest spending day ever. I’ve never fully agreed I have visited some truly remarkable shops with the idea that we have lost the true in Greensboro, stores that are owned meaning and the spirit of and operated by our shopping at christmas Christmas. If we are able to friends and neighand choose to give gifts to our time is part of the magic bors. There are wonloved ones, it can’t be all bad, derful boutiques and besides what could exemplify Christmas restaurants, vintage and consignment more than giving? But when we choose to Shopping OUTSIDE at Christmas time is stores, craft shops and art galleries from remove ourselves from society, opting in- part of the magic. Everyone is friendlier, State Street to Elm Street, and everywhere stead to huddle around our computers and more neighborly and open to interaction. in between. Whether you’re looking for purchase gifts we’ve never seen or touched The sights and sounds of the holidays give bath mats or baby blankets, footwear or ourselves, well that’s not Christmas at all. us a sense of renewal, a sense that there footballs, everything you could possibly So then we have to ask ourselves, has the is still magic in the world, but we need want for those special people (or pets) in to get out and about in order to feel it. your life can be found locally, right here internet stolen Christmas? What’s more, shopping at locally owned in Greensboro. And, if you haven’t yet Imagine if you will two scenarios; in one stores is always the best option year round, decide what you want to give, that’s great a father and daughter plan to spend the but never more so than during the holi- too, browsing these stores unfettered by day together, outside in the real world, day season. We’ve said this before, shop- preconceived ideas can only enhance the shopping at local stores. They begin early ping at locally owned, independent stores experience. There is public transportation at a local restaurant, maybe a nice diner. returns on average 45% of every dol- if you are unable or unwilling to drive and Once they’ve eaten they begin their ad- lar spent back to the community, which plenty of parking just about everywhere if venture, because that’s what this really is. means more benefits and service for you. you do. They browse local boutiques, consignment Shopping online returns exactly ZERO shops and craft stores before settling on (unless of course you’re shopping at a lo- First Friday, the tree lighting and the Fesa one of a kind, handmade sweater with cal store). By shopping locally you will not tival of Lights are all on Friday, December gentle earthy colors. A sweater that they only find wonderful gifts, you will be help- 5th, but there are activities and events all know has a soft comfortable feel because ing support your local community in the season long. So unplug yourself. Get out they held it themselves. They choose a process…win win. Plus, those gifts you and explore Greensboro, especially during sweater that will keep grandma warm, one find will be treasured because they hold the holidays and while you’re at it spread they know she will love; over lunch they a special meaning; they truly show how the joy and take a friend with you. Evthe talk about what to get mom. Now you feel. These are the items that you can erything is right here, except the excuses. imagine scenario number two. The same see and touch and even smell for yourself. Don’t let the internet become your Grinch.

“

OUTSIDE

Browse the amazing finds at Mechelle’s Boutique on South Elm Street, then follow the aroma to Loaf Bakery

(continued from pg. 7)

Detractors will argue that large corporate chains being bigger hire more people and pay a larger amount of taxes, and that’s true. But, and this is the real point, dollar for dollar more of the money spent at locally owned stores is returned to be recycled throughout the community. Meaning that every dollar we choose to spend at the local store will return at least $.68 compared to only $.45 from the chain, an additional $.23 per $1.00…$23 per $100.00…$230,000 per million. According to the data at CLR Research (clrsearch.com) in 2010 over $700,000,000 was spent in retail establishments in Greensboro. Suddenly it becomes easier to envision what an additional shift of 10% would do for each one of us. So here’s an idea, since it would be so easy to commit 10%, how about we up the stakes for our city. If we can make a resolution to commit not 10 but 15% to our locally owned independent businesses (you know, the ones owned by our friends, our neighbors and our relatives) imagine the precedence we could set, the inspiration we can be and all the good we can do. Our city has needs. We can continue with business as usual by ignoring some of them and relying on ever increasing taxes or cuts to critical services to fix the rest, or we can choose to be proactive and self-reliant by making the changes happen ourselves without spending an additional dime. This year make some of the gifts you give benefit the community as well. Then, carry that commitment into the New Year with a resolution that A) can be kept and B) will do some real good both for yourself and the community. Here’s an idea, KEEP IT LOCAL and make your resolution the 15% solution. 16

It’s always the right time to lose yourself at Jules Antiques

Connect with businesses in your local christian community GREENSBORO

CHRISTI AN BUSINESS GUIDE

“Faithfully Serving the Community ”

Februar y 2015

we might as well move to

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 (yes, hitting the snooze button is 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? 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 supplies from other locally owned businesses, etc. Compare that to the $45 average returned by “big box” stores and it’s easy to see the huge benefit of keeping it local. Examined through what is called the “Local Multiplier Effect (LME)”* the direct, indirect, and induced impacts of spending locally are quite amazing

Opa Locka Tony Bates

• Direct impact is spending done by a business in the local economy to operate the business, including inventory, utilities, equipment and pay to employees. • Indirect impact refers to the conventional multiplier that happens as dollars the local business spends at other area businesses re-circulate. • Induced impact refers to the additional consumer spending that happens as employees, business owners and others spend their income in the local economy. We all know that economies throughout the country, the world in fact, are struggling at best. 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, holds true for local arts of ev-

*http://www.amiba.net/resources/multiplier-effect

ery style, artists of every genre, farmers of any type, non-profit organizations, 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. We must, each one of us, make an effort to support local businesses whenever possible; you can certainly believe that residents in other communities across this country are supporting theirs. Greensboro and the surrounding areas have some of the best of everything. Locally, we have world class boutiques, restaurants, performers, artists, photographers, shopping, and farming of almost every imaginable type and there is so much more. When we finally make that important decision to “KEEP IT LOCAL”, we are not only greatly increasing the flow of money into our local economy, we are saying that we have pride in our city and what it offers, we are saying that we believe in the people here and want to help them even as we are helping ourselves, we are saying that we care. And if we don’t support the business community that is the life’s blood of our city, well, we might as well move to Opa-Locka.

e our favorite things ...a fewmorof 307 State Street • 336. 279.1124 • tylerwhitegallery.com

412 State Street • 336.609.4207 • vidapourtea.com

EARNHARDT OPTICAL

509 State Street • 336.275.5639 earnhardt-optical.com

515 State St • 336. 545.3003 linneasboutique.com 524 S. Elm Street • 336.274.1010 triedandtruetattoocompany.com

515 S Elm St• 336. 370.1050 • areamod.com

106 Barnhardt St • 336.285.9391 theworxrestaurant.com

Mechelle’s Boutique Everything a girl could want! 227 South Elm St • 574.4496

342 S Elm St #100 • 336. 272.1800 • shopdesignarchives.com 607 S Elm St • 336. 378.8877

The Artist Bloc (continued from pg. 13) Guided by a local band and host, the program features poets, musicians and live painting. Beginning in December, The Bloc will activate a monthly film screening series. In alignment with the company’s mission, the screening will give independent filmmakers a place to showcase their work while bringing films to the Triad that possibly would not come to the area. Additionally, The Artist Bloc is partnering with the African-American Film Festival Releasing Movement (AFFRM), to become an affiliate within their national distribution network for independent filmmakers. The first film presentation is on December 1, 2014 at 7:30pm. “25 To Life” chronicles the story of William Brawer, a young man who kept his HIV positive status a secret for over twenty-five years. Now, William seeks redemption from his promiscuous past as he embarks on a new phase of life with his wife and son, both HIV negative.

The Artist Bloc is the home to several multi-cultural events and functions. Every Wednesday The Bloc hosts “Paint N Sipp”, an event in which a professional artist guides guests in creating an unique painting while indulging in a collection of wines. Art classes are offered every other Saturday for developing artist of all ages, also lead by a professional artist. Once a month, an event entitled “The Artist Social” occurs.

“

The Artist Bloc’s mission is to cultivate an environment for the arts community to share their intellectual, cultural, political and social beliefs. The Bloc works continuously and diligently to develop programs and events for the community in an effort to bring unique and eclectic entertainment and culture to the Triad.

“

The Artist Bloc is at the forefront of an exciting and growing arts movement

Jordan Robinson & Aliana Bailey receive scholarships at The Artist Bloc

The Artist Bloc is at the forefront of an exciting and growing arts movement. Owned and operated exclusively by artists, it is the only arts venue in the city of Greensboro that offers a fine arts gallery, coffeehouse and retail art supply store while conversely operating as exhibition venue for artist of all genres. The Artist Bloc exist to serve the community and will continue function as such, gradually growing and continuously learning in order to improve and master the art of teaching artist to break through “blocks” in order to build “blocs” for creative minds to meet. Yes, something new, necessary and incredibly wonderful is happening in Greensboro.

Current & Upcoming Events & Activities at The Artist Bloc The current art exhibit is entitled “The A&T Alumni & Friends Show”. Saturday art classes the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 11:30am - 1:30pm Paint N Sipp Every Wednesday from 6-8pm (wine specials these days as well) Beginning in January, during the last weekend of the month The Artist Bloc will feature the following scheduled events: The last Friday will be "Art Social" Night, featuring live bands, poets, and a visual artists painting LIVE throughout the night. The last Saturday will be the "Open Jam Art Session" where visual artists are encouraged to come together and create art. for additional information including rentals and upcoming events, please contact:

LaTasha “Sunny” Gravely, CMO

Darlene Glenn-McClinton, CEO

Watricia Shuler, COO

(336) 207-3883

(336) 458-7603

(919) 951-9910

The Artist Bloc “WHERE CREATIVE MINDS MEET!”

1020 W. Lee St. Greensboro, North Carolina www.theartistbloc.com • theartistbloc@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/theartistbloc 20