Arts + Culture

Guiding With Heart

How one woman’s devotion to Scouting continues to shape lives across generations Article by Kari Smith Ahead of her son Gabriel’s Eagle Scout board of review, Jennifer Aguiar sat sewing the last of his 63 merit badges onto his sash—so many that they now spill down the back. For Jennifer, the moment marked more than a proud milestone as a mother; it was the continuation of an unexpected journey of leadership, giving, and service through Scouting. Jennifer’s path began in 2003 when her young...

Life + Culture

A Beloved Tradition

Greensboro Ballet's annual Nutcracker performance has enchanted generations of audiences Article by Kari Smith Every December, crowds descend upon the Carolina Theatre as a new generation arrives to be entertained and enchanted by the Greensboro Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker . As the lights dim and the music begins, audience members of all ages are reminded of the enduring magic of this show. For some, it’s a new experience; for others, it’s their family’s yearly tradition to...

Finance + Legal Services

Q&A: Year-End Charitable Giving

What to know about deductions, deadlines, and intentional year-end giving Article by Kari Smith Financial experts Scott and Peter Graham of Alpha Omega Financial share insights for charitable giving as the year draws to a close. What types of donations qualify for tax deductions? Generally, monetary donations to a qualified charity, such as a 501(c)(3) public organization, may be tax deductible. Donations of clothing, furniture, or household items to qualified charities may also be...

Shopping

Your Greensboro Gift Guide

We rounded up some of our favorite spots to shop local this holiday season Article by Kari Smith Rhyme and Reason Chocolate Co.   This small-batch chocolate shop offers everything from exquisite bon bons to distinctive bars, such as the Maracuya Passion Bar (that won Gold in the International Chocolate Awards in 2024)—sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Where to shop: 301-D State Street, Greensboro www.rhymeandreasonchocolate.com/ The Tiny Greenhouse Enter this welcoming storefront to find...

Life + Culture

More Than Cake

For four decades, Maxie B’s has poured gratitude into Greensboro while caring for the planet Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Autumn Hollifield On an average Saturday evening, you may see a line of customers stretched down the sidewalk waiting for the chance to snag a sweet treat from Maxie B’s Bakery & Dessert Café. But what you might not know is that behind every baked good lies an ever-evolving story of perseverance, creativity, and a commitment to community that began 40 years ago. ...

Arts + Culture

Painting With Uninhibited Joy

Artist Katie Podracky honors nature’s beauty with every brush stroke Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Autumn Hollifield On the average day, you may find Greensboro artist Katie Podracky in her upstairs studio, blasting 90s hip hop music and putting the final flourishes on her latest painting while her kids are at school. She’s living her dream. Thinking back on her childhood in Asheboro, Katie remembers being artistic for as long as she can remember. “Art has always been a quirky way for...

Home + Design

Making Room for What Matters

Sandy Eaton brings quiet joy to busy families through New Day Organizing Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Kelli Gowdy Photography Let’s face it, life is busy! Between work, taking care of our kids and driving them to and from their various activities, and other family demands, things can start piling up at home. Before you know it, toys are strewn across the floor, mail and papers start to stack up on the counter, and the basement becomes a dump zone for everything that doesn’t fit...

Life + Culture

Gracious Gatherings

How personal details can make your guests feel truly appreciated Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Autumn Hollifield Where should a host or hostess start? Take it one step at a time. Decide your menu first, and then build a theme around that. You can set the table and prepare pre-dinner cocktails, and the favors can be an add-on later. Don’t do it all at once. How can hosts add thoughtful details to make guests feel appreciated? Beyond appetizers and cocktails, place cards and the...

Food + Beverage

Greensboro’s Quiet Culinary Revolution

Tal Blevins and Chef Kevin Cottrell are redefining Greensboro dining Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Autumn Hollifield When Greensboro natives Tal Blevins and Chef Kevin Cottrell met in 2017, they couldn’t have known it was the start of one of the city’s most dynamic culinary partnerships. Tal had just returned to the area after working as a journalist in San Francisco for years. Meanwhile, Kevin had earned a reputation for his inventive cooking. Their friendship grew organically. Tal...

Life + Culture

Your Friendly Neighborhood "Grape Pusher"

No one knows wine quite like TC Frazier Article by Kari Smith | Photography by Autumn Hollifield When TC Frazier got his first job bussing tables at a restaurant at age 14, he never imagined the catalyst that would be for his future career. Born and raised in North Carolina, where sweet tea and Coca-Cola are part of the cultural fabric, TC began his hospitality journey with the simple goal of earning enough money to buy his first car. As a young teen, he quickly learned that the more you know...