Winter 2016 by We Are Greensboro

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winter 2016

Spread Love

spread love

for peace, for hope

jasmine nehilla

fear & loathing in 2016

has the internet stolen christmas

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ISSUE: 05

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Small Talk

ast time out we discussed the concept of community and coming together for our common good. Then we had a national election and many people, on both sides of the equation, LOST THEIR MINDS! Which makes it all the more important that we continue the discussion and figure out what we can do to, once again, find our common ground. Our hope is that, while we remain vigilant, we choose peace over anger and love over hate; which we discuss further in “Spread Love” on page 10.

Along the same lines, Jasmine Nehilla is not only back this issue; she’s back in full force. With her indomitable spirit, and that wit we’ve come to love and expect, Jasmine takes us through a roller coaster of emotions and explains how the “f-bombs” she heard during and after the election were not exactly the ones we might have expected in “Fear & Loathing in 2016”. Almost as an intro to our first article this issue, we decided that this was the perfect time to revisit piece from the archives that explores the many ways in which we can take Christmas off autopilot and put some of the magic back in. Nothing fancy in “Has the Internet Stolen Christmas?”, it pretty much involves quite simply turning off our computers. Which leads us to “This Special Season” and the understanding that winter (and the holidays in particular) can be stressful. With that in mind, we wanted to remind residents and visitors alike that Greensboro has way too many fun and exciting things to do for us to while away our days in the house. Whatever your particular cup of tea (speaking of which, your perfect cup is waiting at Vida Pour Tea on State Street), there is somewhere to go and something to do for everyone this winter. So lace up those boots and pull on that hat, your adventure awaits! By now you may have realized that we get great joy from heading out, camera in hand and meeting the people of Greensboro. This outing found us with new and old friends alike at the Revolution Mill Food Truck Festival, where we ate a bit too much while having the perfect amount of fun. While we weren’t daring enough to get out on the ice, we also stopped in at the WFMY News 2 Winterfest. With Ice skating, a slide and even a snack shack, there were smiles on every face even before the words “say cheese” could be uttered. Lastly, but most importantly we would like to thank each and every one of you for your support. It’s been a wonderful year with the promise for an even better one just around the corner. We wish all of you the happiest of holidays and the best New Year imaginable and ask you all to remember to KEEP IT LOCAL!

T ony

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Contents A Less-Stress, Full Season

StolenChristmas? 09

Spread Love

Fear & Loathing in 2016

Small Talk

A Less - Stress, Full Season

A little commentary, a dash of editorializing and a bit of small talk about this issue. Everyone has a opinon, and so do we.

This is a great place to live. So when the family visits there’s no need to sit at home just because it’s a bit chilly out. See what Greensboro has in store to make the season full and stress-free for everyone

There is a simple answer to stopping the world wide web from taking your Christmas joy.

Spread Love

We may be divided over some issues, but there is still much we can agree on and plenty of ways to come together. This season and all year long, spread love.

GREENSBORO SCIENCE CENTER AQUARIUM MUSEUM ZOO

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

Has the Internet Stolen Christmas

Fear & Loathing in 2016

Pics: Revolution Mill Food Truck Festival

The recent election has been emotional for many of us causing an uptick in F-Bombs... Jasmine Nehilla is back to tell us about the biggest F-Bomb of all.

When we stopped by the Revolution Mill Food Truck Festival we had a great time eating and visiting with friends. YUM!

Pics: Winterfest Ice Skating 2016

Ice skating at the WFMY News 2 Winterfest is fast becoming a winter tradition. We were there... Were you? not to worry, there’s still time.

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A Less-Stress, Full Season

Tony Bates

ur previous conversation about the “duality of Christmas” centered on a balance between the traditional, spiritual Christian meaning and the more secular celebrations. In the end, our determination (which by no means definitively finalized the matter) was that as long as joy and kindness, hope and love are included in the holiday expression, there is nothing wrong with a little gift giving and general Christmas cheer. There is, however, another duality at play this time of year. While the same could easily be said about Thanksgiving or even Independence Day, how Christmas, one of the most enjoyable times of year manages to simultaneously morph into one of the most stressful, is in itself a dichotomy; a mystery that continues to surround this special season. We know what we’ve “planned” to do, but no matter how early we begin or how organized we fell we’ve become, the last minute madness always seems to blow in with the December chill. Coming face to face with the seasonal mayhem it’s easy to forget the joy of the season and many of the things that make Greensboro such a wonderful place to spend the winter. In an effort to return some semblance of happiness and calm to the lives of our cherished readers, we would like to remind you of some of the local favorites that mustn’t be overlooked this season. Playing host to visiting family any time of year may not be entirely stressful, but it can be challenging. While spending time at home catching-up and rekindling family ties is certainly the most enjoyable aspect of a family gathering, ensuring everyone is fed and entertained, especially the young ones, can test even the most endearing kinship. Luckily, our winters here in Greensboro are not often the long-lasting, severe sort that keep people homebound for weeks on end, so packing the family up and heading out for a little family adventure is not only doable, it’s generally something to look forward to. Ice skating at the WFMY News 2 Winterfest has become a seasonal tradition and with this year’s move to the new LeBauer Park in downtown Greensboro, the tradition will almost definitely continue. Operating this season from Nov. 18, 2016 - Jan. 29, 2017, in addition to the outdoor ice skating rink, the attraction boasts an ice slide and snack shack. Reasonably priced at $8.00 for kids and $10.00 for adults, skating is a healthy activity the whole family can enjoy. Visit piedmontwinterfest.com for hours of operation and their full special event schedule. Celebration Station is an attraction your gang can enjoy all year long. However with shorter lines in the cooler months and the added bonus of indoor/outdoor fun, winter can be an especially nice time to go. It only takes a few steps to travel from outdoor activities including go-cart racing, bumper boats, miniature golf and the batting cage to the indoor (and decidedly warmer) restaurant, air hockey, pool tables and 100-plus driving and arcade games. (continued on Pg. 14) 06

coming face to

face with the holiday mayhem it s easy to forget the joy of the season 07

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Flashback: 2012

Has the Internet Stolen

Christmas?

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. We shop so much in fact that in a time when a great many of us are still cautious about our finances, and retail sales are raising at approximately 2.2%, internet sales, compared to the same time last year, are up over 16%. I’ve never fully agreed with the idea that the commercial aspect of the season means we’ve lost the true meaning and the spirit of Christmas. If we are able to and choose to give gifts to our loved ones, it can’t be all bad, besides what could exemplify Christmas more than giving? But when we choose to remove ourselves from society, opting instead to huddle around our computers and purchase gifts we’ve never seen or touched ourselves, well that’s not Christmas at all. So then we have to ask ourselves, has the internet stolen Christmas? Imagine if you will two scenarios; in one a father and daughter plan to spend the day together, outside in the real world, shopping at local stores. They begin early at a local restaurant, maybe a nice diner. Once they’ve eaten they begin their adventure, because that’s what this really is. They browse local boutiques, consignment shops and craft stores before settling on a one of a kind, handmade sweater with gentle earthy colors. A sweater that they know has a soft comfortable feel because they held it themselves. They choose a sweater that will keep grandma warm, one they know she will love; over lunch they the talk about what to get mom. Now imagine scenario number two. The same 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

Grinch Sketch by Hikari151 (via Diviantart.com)

Tony Bates

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 arguably one of the greatest technological 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 often isolated. Detachment from society is unhealthy and remotely choosing a gift for someone, especially a Christmas gift that is meant to epitomize love, seems cold, almost tragic. There is a better way. Shopping OUTSIDE at Christmas time is part of the magic. Everyone is friendlier, more neighborly and open to interaction. The sights and sounds of the holidays give us a sense of renewal, a sense that there is still magic in the world, but we need to get out and about in order to feel it. What’s more, shopping at locally owned stores is always the best option year round, but never more so than during the holiday season. We’ve said this before, shopping and dining at locally owned, independent stores and restaurants returns on average 45% of every dollar spent back to the community, which means more benefits and services for you. Shopping online returns exactly ZERO (unless of course you’re shopping at a local store). By shopping locally you will not only find wonderful gifts, you will be helping support your local communities in the process…win win. Plus, those gifts you find will be treasured because they hold a special meaning; they truly show how you feel. These are the items that you can see and touch and even smell for yourself. 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? I have visited some truly remarkable shops in Greensboro, stores that are owned and operated by our friends and neighbors. There are wonderful boutiques and restaurants, vintage and consignment stores, craft shops and art galleries from State Street to Elm Street, all up and down Battleground Avenue and everywhere in between. Whether you’re looking for bathmats or baby blankets, footwear or footballs, everything you could possibly want for those special people (or pets) in your life can be found locally, right here in Greensboro. And, if you haven’t yet decide what you want to give, that’s great too, browsing these stores unfettered by preconceived ideas can only enhance the experience. If it really is impossible to visit the actual stores and you must shop online, by all means shop the websites of locally owned stores. However, if you are unable or unwilling to drive, there is public transportation and plenty of parking just about everywhere you want to go. First Friday, the tree lighting and the Festival of Lights are all on Friday, December 2nd, but there are activities and events all season long. So unplug yourself. Get out and explore Greensboro, especially during the holidays and while you’re at it spread the joy and take a friend with you. Everything is right here, except the excuses. Don’t let the internet steal your Christmas. 09

Spre a d H o p e

S pread P e a c e

S pr e ad L ov e

Tony Bates

ur last issue focused a great deal on the concept of community and how we would all benefit by embracing our differences instead of using them as a catalyst to divide us. While messages of kindness and shared common goals are always in season and the term community can be read to mean anything from a small town to an entire nation, recent developments seem to indicate that our last theme may have been a bit more apropos than we originally imagined. While we have always endeavored to remain apolitical, the recent presidential election and the extraordinary level of divisiveness since, all but demands that we make every effort to remind one another that regardless of where we are on the political spectrum, as a community there is STILL more that unites us than should ever tear us apart. One similarity, for instance, is that in life the vast majority of us don’t ALWAYS get everything we want. Moreover, it is how we choose to handle that fact that goes the longest way in defining who we are. Think of politics in general and society in particular as a game; albeit a very serious game with important, often life altering consequences. Even under the most ideal circumstances, no one will win every round, however the victors, almost invariably, will be the ones taking the time to get involved (practice if you will) and remain engaged. They will also be the players who learn the rules and are vigilant in making sure everyone plays by them (while they, themselves, sometimes attempt to circumvent them). One thing that is certain, those that chose not to play, but instead opt to remain on the sidelines complaining of shady tactics or unsatisfactory outcomes will NEVER win. It’s also true that playing by the rules and devoting ourselves entirely to the cause will not ALWAYS ensure a victory, but even then, we don’t need to be mean and nasty to one another. There is no need for disregard, disrespect or distain. It’s perfectly alright to be unhappy or to even express our opposition and peacefully protest to lend voice to our objections. But, regardless of whether we want to continue winning or if we want a completely different outcome in the next round, we need to use our minds, re-visit the rules, re-learn the tactics, determine what worked from what didn’t and devise a new strategy that will have a more favorable end result. Yes, win or lose, we need to be smart AND remain vigilant. As difficult as it may be, as counterintuitive as it may feel, we must avoid playing any part in dividing ourselves and our community, for that can only be counterproductive. Right now, our unity is being severely strained and many of us, on all sides, are feeling the pain. However we cannot afford to succumb to the negativity. It may sound nerdy (not too nerdy, 10

just nerdy enough) to take a lesson from Star Wars, but fear and hate lead to the “dark side” and we all know how that worked out for Darth Vader. But seriously, fear of and suspicions about the actions and involvements of our neighbors, friends, coworkers and even family are causing us to reconsider relationships we may have had for years. If we lose faith in some of those closest to us, what chance do we have to come together as a community? Of course there are fringe groups and every side of the equation has them, but that does not mean they speak for all or even a majority of us. Right or wrong, whether we consider them justified or not, many of us have felt disenfranchised at one time or another. And while we may feel we have history and the facts on our side, whichever side that happens to be, there is a another group who feels just as ardently that it is their group that has gotten (or is still getting) the short end of it all. Still, as read in Mark 3:24 and as Abraham Lincoln reiterated, “A kingdom (be it a hamlet or nation) divided against itself cannot stand”.

It is in these instances of differing opinion where we can often best be served by agreeing to disagree then moving on to a plan that will make ourselves, and by extension our community, whole again. It is in these times of conflict, mistrust and even disgust that we will find a small amount of trust, a little understanding and a short leap of faith go a long way towards healing the pain. No one can do it for us; each and every one of us has to decide what type of world we want to live in. It’s up to us to bridge the divide and make our community one we can truly be proud of. Understanding that our commonalities, those things that bind us together, are far greater than the short lived, short sighted obstacles we seem to be inundated with on a daily basis and will have a much more positive effect than any negative alternative ever could. In short, for our hopes to come true and for peace to have a chance, we must spread love, not hate; and is there anything more demonstrative of the holiday spirit than love? This special season, and all year long, whichever religious or spiritual beliefs we embrace, or whatever our particular individual circumstances are, love and understanding are gifts we can all afford to give and should all appreciate receiving in return.

Fear & Loathing in 2016 Jasmine Nehilla Contributing Writer

s Tony assured you in the Fall issue, I’d be returning to my soapbox—and I came back with an extra box to prop up on!

The night of November 8th discharged a lot of F-words. The country sat at the edges of their couches intensely clutching their spouses, cushions, beer steins or whatever clutchable that was within reach as the telly announced our new President Elect. Many of us retired to bed—filled with emotion—ready to unload our opinions after digesting the news. Whether you were pleased with the results or not, the morning of November 9th had a very specific energy. Sure, there are many who probably didn’t feel the hovering funeral-like mood that devoured the day, but the resounding spillage of sentiments muted those who were genuinely joyful with the recent news. I heard and read our favorite four-letter F-word in a heavily seasoned manner, most commonly in the statement, “We are [explicative]ed”—so much 12

it should have been a trending hashtag. If F-bombs were actual bombs, we probably would’ve had another Hiroshima on our hands. I heard and read a lot of quotes and statements about maintaining and strengthening our Faith. But the F-word I saw more than any other word was Fear. One day during 2nd grade religion the concept of Limbo came up in our day’s lesson. Limbo was defined to us as a bordering place, between heaven and hell, where infants who die before being baptized spend their afterlife. The ideology that an infant—the very definition of purity and innocence—would not be welcomed in the presence of God really resonated with me. Immediately, I was struck with mental dyspepsia and had to ask Sister Marie Patrick for clarification, but found no comfort in her responses, so eventually I got sent to the principal’s office for “distracting the class.” Limbo consumed my journal entries and short stories for years and on November 9, 2016 limbo as the “state of uncertainty,” not the necessarily the place—returned to mind.

My husband (boyfriend at the time) took his son, Fatboy, to a carnival and while they were there someone offered Fatboy the opportunity to hold an albino python. Enthusiastically, as most six-year-old boys would be, he agreed and the handler wrapped the python around Fatboy’s shoulders. A bright smile illuminated across his face, illustrating the expression “cool” as he held the massive—especially in comparison to his tiny body—reptile. Fatboy grabbed and lifted the snake over his head, turned to his father, and said, “Daddy, do you want to hold the snake?” Sidenote: There aren’t many things in this world that scare my husband. Like Chuck Norris more things are afraid of him than the other way around; but snakes—they’re his kryptonite. And yet, he turned to his son and sanguinely said, “Sure buddy.” Equipped with this intel, I stood by with bag of kettle corn in hand and began frantically throwing popped kernels into my mouth as if I was watching a thriller and its climax was reaching its apex. Fatboy, unaware of his father’s phobia handed his daddy the snake, bounced around to face his father and said, “cool right?”

overmastered by fear and instilling that same fear into Fatboy, he ate it and radiated with courage. To this day, I’m not sure if Fatboy knows that his father is extremely perturbed by snakes, but I’ve never heard Fatboy say that he was afraid to do anything. That moment at the carnival made me think about teaching my children fear. It doesn’t matter how small the phobia, be that brave role model for your offspring because fear is a learned behavior and can be controlled. Be as brave as you can be. But as a community, as a society, what can we do? Take the parental responsibility to be as brave as you can be. Uncertainty and fear are stressful, but great things never came from comfort zones, and all great changes were preceded by chaos; so my simplest solution is to decondition. Minority or majority, turn off the propaganda that is the news and simply love your neighbor. “[...] you don’t have to compromise convictions to be compassionate.” Return stray grocery carts to their homes. Call a loved one you haven’t conversed with in a while. Conduct an experiment: smile and say hello to at least five people you don’t know. (Bonus: make sure those five people don’t look like you.) Your kindness will be shocking to some at times...particularly those who have developed prejudices and judged you from a mile away, but your simple act of kindness may alter their way of thinking. Buy coffee for the person behind you in line. Give food or water to someone in need. Ask someone how their doing and actually listen to their answer. There are lists all over the internet of random acts of kindness if you need inspiration. Kindness doesn’t have to cost a penny so work to sprinkle it everywhere. The real trick is to blur the dividing lines of gender, race, financial status, religion—you’ll surprise yourself and teach others different doesn’t mean wrong.

“

Meteorically, our lives became this one big “I don’t know,” and that state of uncertainty along with the media’s constant infusion of appalling events and visualizations of bigotry (as if it had been eradicated and now suddenly resurrected like the zombie apocalypse). Of course fear is the conventional response. In the past year, all we’ve seen are projections of fearful or frightening occurrences—especially involving a minority—which did nothing but cause friction and segregation. It presents the not-so-archaic mentality of “Us” versus “Them.” Rick Warren laid it out plain and simple, “Our culture has accepted two huge lies. The first is that if you disagree with someone’s lifestyle, you must fear or hate them. The second is that to love someone means you agree with everything they believe or do. Both are nonsense [...].” At some point you have to let go of what you thought should happen or how you think someone should be and focus on acceptance—because fear is paralyzing...if you allow it to be.

But as a community, as a society, what can we do? Take the parental responsibility to be as brave as you can be.

My husband managed to plaster a botched smile on his face, glowed from perspiration—which wasn’t suspicious because it was an unusually warm day—and replied one word without a tremble or shudder in his voice, “Very.” Less than 30 seconds later, he returned the snake to its handler and we casually moved onto the next attraction. I grabbed his awfully sweaty palm and interlocked my fingers with his—I was in awe. It was one of the many times I fell in love with him, to be honest. Instead of showing that he was absolutely

It may sound a little bare feet, flowers in the hair, bloom from within hippie-like, but by spreading peace and good energy we’ll realize we’re more united than divided. And by claiming that responsibility to alter your family, your circle, your community—you’re diminishing all of this deadening fear. In the fall issue, Tony Bates cautioned, “If we allow ourselves to live in a world where we fear that we are surrounded by only the bad, we will never truly appreciate the good; we will never truly enjoy life.” And enjoying life is the goal, isn’t it?

Artwork: “Let Go” courtesy of the artist, William Toliver. View more of his amazing work at instagram.com/fragyle.art 13

(Continued from pg. 6) Bumper boats and arcade games may keep kids of all ages entertained for hours at a time, but those relatively sedentary activities can lead to an abundance of pent up energy. It is at these times (or even better before that happens) when a trip to Air Fun Trampoline Park is perfect for the winter weather blues. For a great time and a considerable workout, little can compare to the sheer 01 excitement of jumping on a trampoline. Perfect for anytime but especially welcome on the days when the weather is being less cooperative, Air Fun Park offers wall-to-wall (yet segmented) trampolines and crash-pad trampolines (that line the walls for added fun). Whether it’s free jumping, a huge leap on the “jumbo jumper” or group fun in a game of basketball or dodgeball, jumpers of all sizes and ages are guaranteed to mix a fun and exercise in ways that will make winter seem that much warmer. If you love the idea of mixing exercise with fun, especially for the young ones, Safari Nation has to be near the top of your go-to activity list. Another ideal spot for parties or random afternoons full of fun, their 12,000+ sf facility including bumper cars, a zip line, a trampoline, “ballocity” (the ultimate foam ball enclosure), an arcade and bouncy fun galore, will keep kids entertained all day. If you’re bounced out or simply looking for an alternate way of beating the chill while getting your exercise on, then the Ultimate Climbing Gym could be just the thing. With over 2000 square feet of bouldering space, 16 top ropes, and a 40 foot tall lead climbing area, Ultimate Climbing Gym is positioned to offer challenges set to meet every skill level. The ideal place to keep it local AND stay in shape, you’ll want to make this a regular part of your exercise routine long after winter has flown the coop. Exercise is important, but giving the mind a thorough workout should never be overlooked, which is why we whole heartedly suggest the Greensboro Science Center. All year long this award winning Greensboro 03 institution offers every age group something to stimulate the brain. Another attraction with indoor/outdoor activities, the center is as equally welcoming on cooler days as it is on hot ones. With a zoo (including tigers and a petting zoo), museum (complete with interactive exhibits and 14

experiments), Sciquarium (featuring a petting tank in addition to a 90,000 gallon shark and stingray tank) and the new SkyWild (a multi-level rope course), adults and children of all ages can spend entire days enthralled, in new and exciting adventures. Speaking of adventures, especially for the younger among us, the Greensboro Children’s Museum is filled with activities the little ones 02 (and the adults they bring along) will not soon forget. Interactive exhibits such as Main Street, the Plane Exhibit Area, the Train Depot, the Our Town Theater and Gizmos & Gadgets are but a few of the many charms that will spur your child’s imaginations and light up their smiles. Hopefully, as we continue to age, we will not lose our inquisitive natures. To help quench our thirst for knowledge, Greensboro has several museums and centers that will keep our history and the world we live in, fascinating for many years to come. The Greensboro Historical Museum (GHM), with over 17,000 sf of events, exhibits and 04 collections is a trove of knowledge about the rich and diverse history of our city. Including information about prominent area residents, the huge are textile industry, the civil rights movement and more, the GHM provides an informative and interesting portal through which researchers, students and the curios minded can learn and be entertained. Visit their website at greensborohistory.org for additional information including rental opportunities, exhibit schedules and hours of operation. Area residents and students played such an important role during the era that no amount of learning about Greensboro would be complete without including the Civil Rights Movement. Luckily, Greensboro is home to the International Civil Rights Center and Museum (ICRCM),

meaning information about this salient part of our history is easily accessible right here in our own back yard. Located in the original Woolworth’s building where a sit-in by four NC A&T State University students helped ignite a movement that has helped shape this nation. The ICRCM offers permanent and rotating exhibits and events meant to educate and enlighten through interesting and engaging guided tours and interactive experiences. Informative and fun for all ages, visit the ICRCM website at sitinmovement. org for additional information. In much the same vein as America in General, Greensboro is a melting pot where the art, music, philosophies and histories of many nations have melded to give us our own unique and diverse flavor. Little speaks to the true nature of a city like its ability to embrace diversity, and in Greensboro, NC, nothing says diversity like the Greensboro Cultural Center (GCC) at LeBauer Park. Located Downtown, the facility provides four levels of galleries, studios, classrooms, and rehearsal and performance spaces. Home to the GreenHill Center for NC Art, the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Greensboro Ballet, African American Atelier, the Guilford Native American Art Gallery and 10 additional arts organizations, the GCC is the city’s beacon of interactive cultural learning and entertainment. A must see for every resident and not to be missed by any visitor, the Greensboro Cul-

tural Center is an idyllic outing any time of year. The art scene in Greensboro is too significant and considerable to be held to one location, even one as large and encompassing as the Cultural Center. With as many different genres and styles of art as there are people to appreciate them, we are truly blessed to have such a wide and varied assortment of locations in which to enjoy them. Although each museum and gallery has their own unique flavor, none of them can be held down to one particular genre with most opting to vary and keep their shows fresh from exhibit to exhibit. Whether it’s the elegance and sophistication of downtown’s Ambleside Gallery, the more modern and contemporary exhibits at Witherspoon Art Museum on the campus of U.N.C.G., or the fresh new artists at The Artist Bloc on Gate City Boulevard, you won’t be disappointed as you explore each. A few more of our favorites include the always fun Tyler White Obrien Gallery on State Street, the fascinating and often intricate art and crafts at Elements Gallery or the entertaining and definitely unusual displays at Elsewhere. We feel certain you, your friends and family will have a wonderful time exploring them all. (continued on Pg. 19) Images: 01) Inside the Greensboro Cultural Center 02) A Tiger prowling at the Greensboro Science Center 03) Skaters (and spectators) at the WFMY News 2 Winterfest 04) A VERY small sample at Mary’s Antiques 05) Outside the International Civil Rights Center and Museum 06) First Friday at Ambleside Gallery 07) The Artist Bloc

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...

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200 S Elm St, • 336.763.0944 • mykoshary.com

Everything a girl could want! 227 South Elm St • 336.574.4496

607 S Elm St • 336.378.8877 Crafted-TheArt of the Taco • 219-A S Elm St • .336.273.0030 Crafted-TheArt of Street Food • 600 Battleground Ave • 336.265.8859

524 S. Elm St • 336.274.1010 triedandtruetattoocompany.com

www.eatatcrafted.com

Welcome to

South End

(continued from Pg. 15) As many ways as there are to enjoy the winter months with the family, including the very young, there is at least as much fun to be had by adults. With the area’s recent “explosion” of craft brewing, taking tours of and relaxing in a local brew pub, distillery or winery can easily enhance the pleasure the true connoisseur derives from their beverage of choice. Local breweries 01 like Gibb’s Hundred, Preyer Brewing, Pig Pounder and the newest edition, Joymongers all offer tours of their brewing facilities the same way Grove Winery and the new kid on the block, Greensboro Distilling Co., Fainting Goat Spirits offer tours of theirs. Whether you enjoy an ice cold class of locally brewed craft beer, a fine locally produced wine or some “sippin’” whiskey to warm those winter nights, these are the perfect places to gather with the grown-ups and relax. It’s also important to mention the “local” spirits friends and family members not lucky enough to live here and can’t get at home, make perfect 02 “any-season” gifts.

It’s really hard to discuss holiday activities without mentioning shopping and we REFUSE to mention shopping without reminding everyone to “keep it local”. Per dollar spent, locally owned businesses are better for the community…period. Add to that very important fact the realization that most locally owned stores are in locations that are far less congested, much less commercialized and more conducive to a less stressful experience and you have every reason you could possibly Images: 01) Shoppes On Patterson

02) Linnea’s Boutique & Vera’s Threads

need to avoid the malls and concentrate your search at places like Mary’s Antique shop or the Shoppes On Patterson for all manner of antiques and one-of-a-kind collectables. For the ladies there are no better clothiers than Lillo Bella on State Street, Linnea’s and Vera’s Threads in the Golden gate Shopping Center, Michelle’s Boutique downtown on South Elm Street 03

or Main and Taylor and Dolce Dimora, both on Battleground Avenue. For that extra special 04 someone, Yamamori LTD on State Street offers premiere custom design & retail jewelry from a true artisan that must be seen to be believed. For the browsers among us or those like myself who love to seek out that perfect gift in more “abstract” locations, a few of our favorite places to get lost are Design Archives Emporium, Daisy’s Designer Alley and the always fascinating and fun Eclectic by Nature. To be entirely honest, there are simply too many wonderful shops, restaurants, attractions and events to enjoy in Greensboro to list them all in any single article. While we can offer a bit of insight into our favorites, we are sure to leave out more than a few very worthy places for you to consider. That being the case, we’ll leave it like this… Wherever you choose to visit, whatever you choose to do, KEEP IT LOCAL! Whether you reside here full time, are just visiting for the holidays or simply passing through, you’ll find the people you meet are friendly, the local proprietors appreciative and that Greensboro has enough LOCAL treasures to make this season and every season much less stressful. 03) Design Archives Emporium 04) Lillo Bella Boutique

Where to find them Celebration Station - 4315 Big Tree Way, GSO 27409 (336) 316-0606 - celebrationstation.com

Greensboro Science Center - 4301 Lawndale Dr, GSO 27455 (336) 288-3769 - greensboroscience.org

Safari Nation - 3900 W Market St, GSO 27407 (336) 315-5115 - thesafarination.com

Lillo Bella Boutique - 507 State St, GSO 27405 (336) 275-7645 - lillobellaboutique.com

Design Archives Emporium - 342 S Elm St, GSO 27401 (336) 272-1800 - shopdesignarchives.com

Greensboro Historical Museum - 130 Summit Ave, GSO 27401 (336) 373-2043 - greensborohistory.org

Daisy’s Designer Alley - 3127 Battleground Ave, GSO 27408 (336) 286-8221 - daisysdesigneralley.com

Greensboro Cultural Center - 200 N Davie St #101N, GSO 27401 (336) 373-2447 - greensboro-nc.gov/index.aspx?page=3036

Greensboro Children’s Museum - 220 N Church St, GSO 27401 (336) 574-2898 - gcmuseum.com

Witherspoon Art Museum - 500 Tate St, GSO 27412 (336) 334-5770 - weatherspoon.uncg.edu

Yamamori LTD - 501 State St, GSO 27405 (336) 274-4533 - yamamoriltd.com

Michelle’s Boutique - 227 S Elm St A, GSO 27401 (336) 574-4496

(continued on Pg. 21)

Where to find them (cont.) Tyler White O’Brien Gallery - 307 State St, GSO 27408 (336) 279-1124 - tylerwhitegallery.com Elsewhere - 606 S Elm St, GSO 27406 (336) 907-3271 - goelsewhere.org Gibb’s Hundred Brewery - 117 W Lewis St, GSO 27406 (336) 763-7087 - gibbshundred.com Preyer Brewing - 600 Battleground Ave, GSO 27401 (336) 256-9450 - preyerbrewing.com Pig Pounder Brewery - 1107 Grecade St, GSO 27408 (336) 553-1290 - pigpounder.com Joymongers Brewing Co. - 576 N Eugene St, GSO 27401 (336) 763-5255 - joymongers.com Grove Winery - 7360 Brooks Bridge Rd, Gibsonville, NC 27249 (336) 584-4060 - grovewinery.com

Ultimate Climbing Gym - 6904 Downwind Rd, GSO 27409 (336) 550-4107 - theultimateclimbinggym.com Shoppes On Patterson - 2804 Patterson St, GSO 27407 (336) 856-2171 - shoppesonpatterson.com Ambleside Gallery - 528 S Elm St, GSO 27406 (336) 275-9844 - amblesidearts.com The Artist Bloc - 1020 W Gate City Blvd, GSO 27403 (336) 676-5384 - theartistbloc.com Eclectic by Nature - 414 State St, GSO 27405 (336) 373-0733 - eclecticbynature.com Linnea’s Boutique and Vera’s Threads - 2274 Golden Gate Dr, GSO 27405 (336) 545-3003 - linneasboutique.com Air Fun Trampoline Park - 2268 Golden Gate Dr, GSO 27405 (336) 450-2102 - airfunpark.com

Greensboro Distilling Co., Fainting Goat Spirits - 115 W Lewis St, GSO 27406 (336) 273-6221 - faintinggoatspirits.com

WFMY News 2 Winterfest - 208 N Davie St, GSO 27401 (336) 399-4710 - piedmontwinterfest.com

Elements Gallery - 526A S Elm St, GSO 27406 (336) 790-8703 - elementsgallery.wordpress.com

Main and Taylor - 1616 Battleground Ave, GSO 27408 (336) 851-5025 - mainandtaylorshoes.com

Mary’s Antiques - 607 S Elm St, GSO 27406 (336) 378-8877

Dolce Dimora - 1616 Battleground Ave, GSO 27408 (336) 282-9572 - dolcedimora.com

International Civil Rights Center and Museum - 134 S Elm St, GSO 27401 (336) 274-9199 - sitinmovement.org

Revolution Mill Food Truck festival 2016

Food truck events are a wonderful opportunity to come out, enjoy a variety of different food, meet new (and old) friends and have what is certain to be a GREAT time. Visit springgardenfoodtruckfestival.com for upcoming festival information. We hope to see ALL of you there!

Winterfest Ice Skating 2016

Now thru Jan. 29, 2017 LeBauer Park in Downtown Greensboro comes alive with ice skating for all ages. Winterfest is always a great time and this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule of events promises not to disappoint. Visit piedmontwinterfest.com or call 336-399-4710 for info... See you there!!!