READ

The Shack
by William P. Young
What was intended to be nothing more than a holiday gift ended up becoming a USA Today best-seller. Author William Young originally wrote The Shack as a Christmas present to his six children. After reading it, his kids urged him to publish the book for the general public. Young has now sold more than one million copies of the Christian-themed fiction novel — one of those copies going to The Early College at Guilford Principal Charles Blanchard. “It’s an interesting story that’s given me a much different perspective on a lot of things,” he says. Recommended by Charles Blanchard, page 26

HEAR

Stratocruiser
Somewhere between classic rock and power pop sits the Chapel Hill-based quartet Stratocruiser. The group just released its fourth album, Eggshells, which fuses soaring guitars and good songwriting to form a sound that’s lovably out-of-date and irresistibly catchy. One of the band’s biggest fans is Nussbaum Center CEO Sam Funchess. “[Stratocruiser] is a combination of ’70s-style rock and ’60s psychedelia with strong vocals and guitars,” he says. “Good songs, good performances, and no pretention.” http://www.myspace.com/stratocruiser. Recommended by Sam Funchess, page 16

SEE

Cinematique Film Series
While some people can’t wait to leave work in the evening, others can’t get enough of it. Take Meagan Kopp for example. Marketing director at the Carolina Theatre, Kopp is staying after hours this winter as the theater launches its Cinematique Film Series. The event kicks off January 28 with the modern-day Irish film Once. “I know it sounds biased because I already spend my days at the theater, but I’m truly looking forward to this film series,” she says. “Cold winter nights, hot popcorn, a modern love story … what more could I want?” http://www.carolinatheatre.com. Recommended by Meagan Kopp, page 8

CLICK

www.blandwood.org
Don’t let the URL confuse you. While you can get information about Blandwood Mansion by visiting blandwood.org, the site primarily serves as the home of Preservation Greensboro, a nonprofit organization aiming to save historic and architecturally significant places in the Gate City. One of the site’s frequent visitors is Michelle Owens, incoming president of the Piedmont Quilters’ Guild, who says the site provides inspiration for the house she plans to own one day. “I love history and these great old buildings,” she says. Recommended by Michelle Owens, page 22

GIVE

Guilford County Animal Shelter
The only thing close to rivaling Anne Marie Davis’ passion for creative home design might be her love for animals. After adopting her dog, Moon, at a local shelter, Davis became an avid supporter of shelters and the workers there. “Shelters are always grateful for monetary contributions,”  she says, “because it helps provide pets with food and vet care.” She also encourages lending a helping hand: “Shelters can always use on-site volunteers or people willing to provide foster care.” For more information, go to http://www.adoptshelterpets.org. Recommended by Anne Marie Davis page 28