Greensboro Daily Photo

Western High School Art... Polaroid Mural

Western HIgh School, located between Friendly Avenue* and West Market Street, is one of Greensboro's directional schools.** The student body consists of approximately 1,300 students. The above photo is a series of several photos painted on the hallway walls. The Polaroid paintings of clouds rest in front of recognizable tourist spots. The above photo covers the Statue of Liberty. Butterflies anchor the Polaroid to the wall. As the butterflies morph from egg to larvae to pupae and adults, so do the high school students..... freshman, sophomore, junior, senior..... when both are ready to fly away and forge a new life. 

Art in public schools is so inspiring and hopeful. The Polaroid mural is the kind of art that allows you to notice something new every time you look at it. Is there inspiring art at your alma mater. It is the weekend so we're out in search of more art.

*Thank you, Jane, for catching this error. We meant Friendly Avenue, NOT Center.

** We also have Northwest, Northern, Northeast, Eastern, Southeast, Southern, and Southwest. Taking the last point on the compass rose, Northern High was the last of the directional schools to be built.

D is for Dogs, People and Paws for Hope

In the above photo, we see the building that formerly housed the Central Carolina Convalescent Hospital at 710 Huffine Mill Road, between Summit and Bessemer Avenues. We drove by this weekend to see the former hospital again because there was a question about its location during Eugene Pfaff's recent book talk about the Civil Rights Movement in Greensboro. During the sit-ins, the above facility served as a place to detain protestors. However, it was initially built in 1948 to quarantine and treat polio victims.* One woman vividly remembered it was "somewhere out off of East Market Street" said when her parents drove her past this facility, she held her breath for fear of catching polio. 

This facility is so important to the history of Greensboro, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Great Mid-Century Polio Epidemic. It is always larger in our memory than it is when we actually visit it in person.** Surprisingly, nobody has pursued getting it on an historic registry. While, a few years ago, it appeared to be abandoned and deteriorating, there is hope for its upkeep, however.

On Sunday's visit, we learned that the facility currently houses People and Paws for Hope. This non-profit organization helps youth between the ages of 5-18 with Animal Assisted Therapies and Activities. They also help dogs be socialized with humans so that they can be adopted into forever homes. So, as serendipity would have it, our trip to the polio hospital brings us in a round about way to today's ABC Wednesday cause: D is for dogs, our canine companions. As People and Paws for Hope reminds us, we need dogs and dogs need us! Good luck to this organization. Good luck to 710 Huffine Mill Road!

*read an interesting article about the polio hospital (here).

**Last time we were there it was painted blue. 

Meadowood Street

Here we see a photo of a construction site at the intersection of Meadowood Street and Cox Place-- a stone's throw from Costco. There is no signage indicating who is building what; however, from the looks of the structure in the distance, this will be an apartment complex. We've noticed several construction sites in Greensboro as of late. Seeing new construction is an indication that the local economy is improving. Construction taking place in already developed areas usually causes little controversy. This project seems to be going up almost unnoticed near a block full of single family homes that have been constructed within the last two years.

Greensboro is in the heart of a clay belt. Here you can see the red menace in all of its glory. Imagine being a farmer having to work fields of clay. Imagine being the person who has to try to get clay stains out of work clothes! Clay actually has nutrients that are good for plants. However, it is dense and creates drainage problems. No problem here as, soon, this clay will be sporting a top coat of asphalt. Happy Monday all!

Eller Memorial Baptist Church

We took this photo of Eller Memorial Baptist Church late Tuesday afternoon as we were leaving the parking lot of McDonald's Restaurant on Summit Avenue. However, when we came home and began researching the church, we're thinking that the church-looking building behind this one, on 4th Street, is actually Eller Memorial Baptist and this is simply an office building. This flat-roofed structure circa 1960, we're guessing, was formerly an office building. We cannot find a website for Eller Memorial Baptist; however, the name Eller  is connected to the church history of Greensboro in the late 1800's and early 1900's.

William Hamilton Eller was born in Wilkes County, North Carolina in 1842. His parents moved their family, by covered wagon, to Iowa in 1852 to be with relatives and to distance themselves from slavery. William was quite precocious and had the good fortune of being surrounded by people who saw to it that he received a formal education. William served in the military, became a minister, teacher, editor, lawyer and judge. He objected strongly to drinking alcohol and at one time was part owner in Keeley Institute, a national organization, based in North carolina that treated alcoholics and drug addicts. In 1896, he entered the baptist ministry in Greensboro. Eller loved establishing churches and was instrumental in starting eleven churches. In 1923, the year after Eller's death, Cherry Street Baptist Church was renamed "The Eller Memorial Baptist Church"  In 1925, the new building was built on the corner of Walnut and Fourth Streets with 24 of the 25 thousand dollars for Eller Memorial Baptist being donated by Cone Mills. Herman Cone, while Jewish, was an ardent supporter of religious freedom and wanted to fund a church that served his mill community. Read more about the Ellers published by Lynn Eller in 1990 (reference).

Now, we're anxious to return and photograph what we're guessing is the main church building. In the meantime, enjoy today's photo, and, if you have any information, please post it in the comment section.

Greenway Fisher Park Apartments

Construction is officially underway for a downtown apartment complex in the Northwest corner of the city. The Greenway Fisher Park Apartments (GFPA) are located on 4.2 acres at the former North State Chevrolet site near the baseball stadium. It is also adjacent to the Greenway loop and historic, Fisher Park. The Jones brothers are building five, three-story brick apartment buildings that will have a clubhouse, fitness center, a saltwater pool, and more. Costing about 10 million dollars, the facility is a major investment on a piece of property that has been dormant for a long time. It will be interesting to monitor the progress of this newest addition to the skyline. At least until the empty showroom/garage across the street is developed, GFPA residents will have a great view of the ballpark and the historic Jefferson Standard Building. To further orient you, notice the Paisley Street sign. We were standing here when the photo was taken.

We love seeing the insides of buildings before they get covered up by their façades. Right now, the construction site is looking beautifully green-- especially striking when the sun is low in the sky. See media coverage of the 196 high-end apartment complex here. We're sharing this with Skywatch Friday. It would be really nice to have some of those wires, lacing through the skyline, go underground.  Have a great weekend, dear readers!

Revolution Cotton Mills

We've featured Revolution Cotton Mills previously; however, we love this view of the red tower at the end of the street. Revolution Cottin Mills were built in 1899 and were part of a 2 million square foot complex in northeastern Greensboro and harken back to the day when Greensboro was a national center of the textile industry. If you ever get a chance to walk around the structure, you will be amazed at the strength and durability of the construction. For the safety of the workers and for insurance purposes, the mills needed to be built according to "slow-burning" specifications: Watertight floors, spaces separated by brick firewalls, and extra sturdy support timbers (read more here).

The facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and with the help of Historic Preservation tax credits, it continues to be renovated and repurposed. We owe you a look of the inside of the facility. We owe OURSELVES a look on the inside and we'll put it on our to do list. In the meantime, if you are looking for office, event, or meeting space, this is a great place to start! This brick facility is solid as a rock, and, with proper care, should last at least another century!

I, Sears, take thee Whole Foods..........

STOP and take notice! In spite of the closing of several Sears stores nationwide, including the one at Oak Hollow Mall in High Point, the sears in Friendly Center is getting a facelift. With the new signage, the store looks inviting and is highly visible. Here we see a view of the Pembroke Road side from the Qdoba Restaurant parking lot. 

Greensboro is getting a little greener as Sears is leasing 34,000 square feet to Whole Foods. For sure, Whole Foods will add more choice for people who like to eat fresh, nutritious, additive-free food. Both Sears and Whole Foods have loyal shoppers and brand recognition-- a brilliant marriage.  

Sears has considerable history with Greensboro as the 900,000 square ft. Distribution Center at 2,600 Lawndale Drive opened in 1960. While that facility is closed, Sears still has distribution and call centers in Greensboro. Next time you are at Friendly Center, come see the softer side of Sears and the nutritious side-- Whole Foods! Let's hope both stores thrive under the arrangement and stay together for a very long time.

UNCG's Mighty Steam Plant Building

From the back yard of Beef Burger on West Lee Street, one can get a great view of The University of North Carolina at Greensboro's  Mighty Steam Plant (constructed in 1924). From the steam plant, heat lines/pipes travel all across campus. Through manholes and steam tunnels, the steam shop maintains all steam and condensate lines once they leave the steam plant. The steam shop also maintain all steam equipment for hot water and building heat (reference). Steam travels to about 62 buildings on campus where it is used for heating, humidification, and to heat water (reference).  There is a whole world underground providing energy for UNCG. 

We wish more were written about this intriguing building. For example, we would love to know the height of the stack and how it has withstood high winds for 88 years. We'd love to know if the tiles on the main building are from Greensboro's own Pomona tile factory. What is the carbon footprint of the facility? What UNCG building uses the most steam? A retired faculty member remembers taking her laundry there to be cleaned in the 1960's and recalls that linens for the dorms and dining services were laundered there. Is that still done?

Do you have any stories about the building? It seems to us that it would be a great setting for a novel. And, oh, how different it would be to tell someone to meet you in the stacks of the library vs. meeting you in the stack of the steam plant building!

 

The Al-Ummil Ummat Islamic Center of Greensboro

Allah.Prayer.Charity.Fasting. Pilgrimage... reads the sign beside the door.

The Al-Ummil Ummat Islamic Center above is located on Martin Luther King Drive. It was established in Greensboro in 1987. Its mission is to serve and propagate the teachings in the Holy Qur'an. From Saturday school for children to worship services on Friday, meetings and study groups for men and for women, and more, the Islamic Center is a dynamic place that attracts Muslims from around Greensboro.

The above building, at one time, must have been a business and appears to be of the same vintage as this Greensboro building.The goal of this congregation is to build new community center on site. Since they own two acres on the above site, they have the room as soon as they have the resources.

Visit Greensboro Daily Photo each Sunday if you want to see our religious/spiritual posts.

R Twining and Company

R Twining and Co., located at 2812 Twining Road, can be seen on the east side of Highway 421, just south of Greensboro. According to a business information website, Twinings manufactures tea, food, beverage and tobacco products. We stopped by the day after New Year's and the gates were closed so we didn't get inside for an interview. We're curious as to whether they are related to the Twinings Tea that got its start in England in 1706. If you know about the business, post something in the comment section.

In the meantime, we're sharing this with Skywatch Friday. Here's to the bright white building perched high on "Twining Hill" south of Greensboro. When we see scenes like this one, we are reminded that Greensboro is not completely flat. Have a great weekend everyone!

Tri-City Fish Market

For years, Tri-City Fish Market and the painting of the siren/mermaid adorned Lee Street near Elm Street downtown-- a central section of town bringing together patrons from east and west Greensboro. It was conveniently located with parking to the side. Tri-City was the main place in town for fresh fish, seafood and oysters.  It predated the big box stores like Wal-Mart and Costco and made fresh seafood available when grocery stores didn't have the large, iced seafood sections. A few years ago, Tri-City Fish Market relocated to Florida Street just south of the Warnersville community. As seen in the above photo, the siren-mermaid resumed her spot on the right-hand side of the building.  While you may be able to get your seafood elsewhere, for sure, you can't get Tri-City's freshness, expertise, and personal service. 

One time Mrs. GDP developed an English course for immigrants who worked at a similar fish market in another city. After several days of on-site observation, we were teaching new employees to ask customers, "Do you want the heads left on the fish?" and to understand when the customers requested in English, "fillet the fish, remove the heads but save them for me." Then, the person working at the counter would shout back to the person cutting the fish, "Fillet, no heads, save all."  On a busy afternoon, you can hear similar lingo at Tri-City. Stop by, learn to speak 'fish-market-ese' and leave with the makings of a savory meal. If you are like us and you've made one of the 'eat-healthier' pacts for New Year's, visit Tri-City sooner, rather than later.

Greensboro Country Club

Today we take you to the Greensboro Country Club (GCC) in the heart of Irving Park. This member-owned, private club was incorporated in 1911 on 58.52 acres of land that belonged to A.M. Scales. The original goal of the club was to promote outdoor games, exercise, and healthful sports. Since the beginning, playing golf has been a major pastime for the members. The above clubhouse was built to replace the one destroyed by fire in 1920. Over the years, GCC has expanded in acreage and membership. Through a merger, the Carlson Farms course in northwest Greensboro became a part of GCC in 1969.

Since we have been featuring a Wednesday series on the People of Greensboro, it seems fitting to share a country club in which numerous, prominent citizens of Greensboro are members. Many deals have been negotiated and agreed upon with a handshake over a round of golf in this beautiful facility. As lovely as the weather has been lately, the fairways and greens at GCC have been busy. We even saw a few junior golfers trying out their new clubs yesterday! Sunny winter days in Greensboro are delightful.... on and off the golf course!

Golf in Greensboro and The Greensboro Country Club have interesting histories. Read more here.

View from College Hill

Ever in search of a great view of our city, we just found a new one: The view of College Hill from Spring Garden Street. To the right is the all new housing community, The Province, that was erected near UNCG on the property that was once Newman Machine Company. The whole character of the southeast corner of historic College Hill has changed with this new complex. For one thing, more people are out walking and riding their bikes on sunny days. On the horizon, we see the landmark, Jefferson Standard/Pilot/Lincoln Financial building; a point of reference not only for this neighborhood but also for the community at large.

Many a great Greensboro citizen has worked in the (now) Lincoln Financial Group building, including yesterday's Mr. Vanstory. Seeing our 233 ft. skyscraper from this vantage point reminds us that it and the 20 story addition really are the landmark/beacons of our city.  Julian Price, president of Jefferson Standard Life Insurance and the person who oversaw the project from blueprint dream to granite structure, paid for the building in full as he did not believe in debt.* Even though much has changed around the 1923 building, once the tallest between Washington D.C. and Atlanta, it remains an icon in the Greensboro community. Recently, the time/temperature indicator at the top of the LFG building was repaired. Many a child grew up developing an awareness of time and temperature from that device. 

*reference.

Inside the Carolina Theatre

We've meaning to take you inside the Carolina Theatre for a while now. Above, you see a portion of this regal place. Opening Halloween night 1927, the 2,200 seat theatre is known as the "Showplace of the Carolinas." Imagine the reaction to this opulent interior to the Depression-era audiences who came to be transported into a world of movies and Vaudeville performances. Today, the theater operates as a non-profit with the mission of "Presenting Arts, Preserving History." Read more about the history here; read about President and CEO Holliday here. 

Recently, the Carolina Theatre finished their wildly successful annual showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. At the moment, they're in the middle of CTG's Wizard of Oz production. Next, Carolina Theatre's December schedule includes not only live concerts but also the Greensboro Ballet's Nutcracker performances. Finally, for those who celebrate Christmas, what holiday season would be complete without seeing the movie classics, White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and It's a Wonderful Life on the big screen? Be one of the 90,000 patrons-a-year to support this local treasure by attending an event. See the schedule here.

Stairway to Heaven

If we could imagine an album cover to Led Zeppelin's 1971 hit, "Stairway to Heaven," it would be the above photo taken right here in Guilford County. The clouds are so fluffy and heavenly; the stairway leads right to the heavens over the Dollar Center and Pawn Way in High Point. The shopping complex is located a block away from High Point University. The lyrics that inspired this photo, "There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold; And she's buying a stairway to heaven. When she gets there, she knows if the stores are all closed; With a word she can get what she came for. Ooh, ooh, and she's buying a stairway to heaven..... (complete lyrics here). 

On the one hand, the photo is so local; on the other, so generic. Every community seems to have one of these strip malls with places to get cash, buy dollar imports from China, and start a new phone service. We're sharing this on Friday because the Skywatch Friday crowd will appreciate some lighthearted, creative Friday fun. Don't forget that today is FIRST FRIDAY, where downtown Greensboro come alive with art galleries and stores staying open late! Hope to see you on Elm Street tonight. Have a great weekend, all. 

Read more about Stairway to Heaven and Led Zeppelin's creative process here. 

 

Scott's Pumpkin Patch

Wrapping up our mini-tour of Burlington Road, just east of Greensboro, was a trip to Scott's Pumpkin Patch. In North Carolina, pumpkin patches are everywhere this time of year and no week-before-Halloween would be complete without our featuring a local place selling pumpkins. Here is one from 2010; here for 2009. Children delight in ambling through the pumpkins arranged by size and price. 

This old barn is representative of the outbuildings found throughout rural North Carolina. Ten years into the 21st century, these structures are disappearing before our eyes. As a matter of fact, the land in the present photo is for sale. Wonder if Scott's Pumpkin Patch will still be here next year? Places like Scott's make great memories for children and help us appreciate our old-time ways.

If you are local and looking for something to do this weekend, click here for a pumpkin patch picking guide for North Carolina. Also, keep in mind it is the last weekend for Johnson's impressionist sculptures to be in Graham. Finally, this is our contribution to Skywatch Friday. Please take time to look up and admire the sky above.

Vespers at Christ United

"Vespers" comes from Latin, meaning "evening." While Christ United Methodist Church might not actually call their evening services "vespers," the term evokes a warmth and coming together of believers to celebrate their religion. In addition to prayers, vespers often include song.

Christ United on Holden Road is one of those large, Greensboro churches that seems to extend for a city block.  The above photo captures the new youth center in the back of the building. At dusk, the golden glow of the light and the translucent, blue glass cross are inviting. Imagine a tired, weary traveler happening upon this beautiful site..... Divine.....  Have yourself a great Sunday, and if you are religious, have yourself a Sacred Sunday. We've got about three years worth of religious Sundays  here. For a nice North Carolina vespers service, we've linked to this one at Duke University Chapel. We need to warn you, while fabulous, it is 35 minutes long. Time permitting, you are invited to "attend."

Teamsters Union 391

According to their website, Teamsters Union, Local No 391, is North Carolina's largest and most diverse union. It grew out of a group of 26 drivers in 1938. At its height, in 1979, it had 10,000 members. Today, it has 8,000 members. Read the history of Teamsters Local No. 391 here. Their building is located off of Sandy Ridge Road and I-40 near the Farmers Market. The local unions feed into the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which is headquartered in Washington, D.C. 

We're sharing this photo with Skywatch Friday where you can go to see a slice of the sky around the world. The red brick building looks so solid under the bold blue sky. Have a great weekend and don't forget about the Liberty Antiques Festival today and tomorrow. Here is a post about the event from a couple of years ago. It would be a great way to spend this first day of autumn!

Jackson Library

This is a photo of the back part of Walter Clinton Jackson Library on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. The original, brick portion of the library (barely visible in this photo) was constructed in 1950. The original portion of Jackson Library was built to replace the Carnegie Library that had burned. This white, 9-story tower was built in the 1970's. Given its height and architectural style, the bright white tower is a landmark on campus. Clearly, it resembles a giant, glistening open book.

According to Wikipedia, Jackson Library is a selective depository for US government documents and a full depository for State documents (reference here). In addition to over 2.5 million books, Jackson Library also has an impressive collection of electronic databases and electronic journal subscriptions. Perhaps the biggest strength of the library is the reference librarians who have a great reputation for helping students and faculty find and access information. The library is named for a former chancellor. Walter Clinton Jackson came to the school as a professor in 1909, rose through the ranks in administration and served as chancellor for 16 years. 

Today, we're sharing this post with Skywatch Friday. Additionally, with a nod to Martin Handford and his book Where's Waldo? (after all, this IS a post about a LIBRARY), we're going to ask you to play a round of Where's Jane? with us. Do you see our friend?

Fox 8 at UNCG

Fox 8 News was on the UNCG Campus late last week just as clouds were rolling in over Tate Street's Aycock Auditorium. The news crew was on site to do a segment on the police department's crime prevention initiative. Theft of cars and laptops is a big issue on college campuses and police are using an SOS alert system that takes advantage of social networking systems. Police are making efforts to be more visible and are driving Segway-like scooters. Police are offering self defense classes. Read more about this initiative in the News & Record (here).

Aycock Auditorium, featured in the photo above, has been a hub of arts for UNCG since the auditorium opened in 1927. It has recently undergone a $19 million dollar renovation. You might want to try to peek inside if you are at the Tate Street Festival this Saturday. We didn't get to watch the Fox 8 segment but we're glad that they are up on current events at local universities. Let's just hope that crime is kept at a minimum all over campus and especially on this corner, right across the campus police stations.

American Flag Flying High Over Elm Street

The Elm Street Hair Company, located at 2002 North Elm Street, is now called Denise Coker Barbershop. The shop is at the end of State Street across the street from Brown-Gardiner Drug Store in Irving Park. A few years ago, the barber was killed 'in cold blood' while at work. It shook up this neighborhood as it isn't a high-crime part of town. 

Since so many people are posting American flags as their Facebook profile pictures this weekend, we began searching our archives for a flag photo. We were drawn to this photo because the building, its roof, and the sky echo the colors of the American flag. On the eve of the 10-year-anniversary of the September 11th event, this red, white, and blue scene, reminds us that bad situations are not always understood.  The best we can do is find a way to remember the past, while living in the present and hoping for the future. Here is to a world living in harmony. Here's to the flag flying high over Elm Street.

Greensboro Police Department

The Greensboro Police Department is getting a new home. They are moving from the Melvin Municipal Building, where they share space with many other administrative offices,  into the 100,000 square-foot building at 320 Federal Place. Formerly, the Internal Revenue Service worked out of the building. If you've ever driven around in that part of town, it is hard to believe that a street is back there.

Soon, the police will have everyone under one roof, THIS ROOF, meaning no more driving to Swing Road to deposit evidence-- saving time and money. In the meantime, the IRS has moved into a building on Koger Boulevard, off of Wendover. Hats off to the police department for retro-fitting an existing building, costing the citizens around $300,000. Also, the building comes with a parking lot and is located near the new, downtown jail. Seems like a win-win in efficiency. 

 

Rolling Roads Baptist Church

Rolling Roads Baptist Church is located at 2800 Vanstory Street not too far from the Four Seasons Mall and Ben L. Smith High School. Rolling Roads Baptist is very involved in the community around the churh, as evidenced by their programs  with Archer Elementary. At Archer, Rolling Roads sponsors a Bible program. Members prepare a meal for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week. On September 11th, they are hosting a pot luck dinner for the staff at Archer. This tradition of providing (optional) programs for the school harkens back to earlier decades in Greensboro, and the South, when people wore a triangular path from home to school to church (or temple) and back again.

Additionally, Rolling Roads provides food items for Urban Ministry. In these financially challenging times, the religious groups of Greensboro play a very important role in keeping people fed, clothed, and spiritually nurtured. Rolling Hills is no exception. Rolling Roads is very excited about the new floor for their fellowship hall. As you can see from the photo, the church is not one of those giant mega-churches; so a $7,000 dollar replacement floor requires individual members to be extra generous in their financial support of this modest church. 

Today's series is part of our Sacred Sunday religious series. While this feature of GDP doesn't usually generate many comments, it is amazing how many people find our website for the first time during their search for these religious institutions. We try to cast the net widely to show the religious diversity of our community.

Mortar & Pestle at Fordham Drug Store

Next time you are at 514 South Elm Street, at the building that housed Fordham's Drug Store from 1898-2002, look up to the sky and see this apothecary mortar and pestle. Pharmacists used them to prepare prescriptions or for grinding pills. Trituration is the process of crushing, grinding, and mixing solid substances-- the task of the above bowl-like mortar and heavy pestle. When we started investigating the origin and meaning of the Rx symbol, we found many answers (read here). One thought is that it comes from the latin word "recipere" meaning "Take, thou."

In the early years of Fordham's, the Drug Store was on the street level and the doctors were upstairs, just below this decorative feature on the roof. Fordham's was a dynamic place with a soda fountain that catered to children. They also had liquor for sale, as long as the ABC man wasn't around (reference). For a while, the short story writer O. Henry worked at Fordham's. We're sharing this bright blue sky with Skywatch Friday.

UNCG SOE

The new School of Education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) looks as if it has always been in this spot. It flows well with the street and other buildings along Spring Garden/Lee Kinard Boulevard. The healthy greenery surrounding the building looks well established; to this end, a mature tree on-site was saved. Upon closer inspection the building is new and special for UNCG. The building is a 110,000 square ft. "state-of-the-art" structure with spacious classrooms, lecture halls, conference rooms, and collaboratory rooms. The building is the first on campus to be designated a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building at the silver level. The LEED rating is an effort to provide national standards for determining the extent to which buildings are designated "green" (read more about LEED ratings here). Systems for water use, climate control, and light sources, efforts were developed in a way that minimizes environmental impact. 

Here we see a GDP photograph from two years ago when they were just beginning construction on the new School of Education. The Bryan School of Business, peeking out to the right of today's photo is now dwarfed by the SOE building. We recently learned that the USA ranks 12th with the share of adults holding postsecondary degrees-- ages 25-34-- (reference), perhaps the SOE at UNCG can do something about that. In the meantime, the stalwart great-grandparent, the Jabez Lamar Monroe Curry Building-- in the business of education since 1902, is getting a facelift and will be keeping a watchful eye on its successor from down the street.

Finally, if you are so inspired, there are naming opportunities available at the new SOE building starting at $15,000- $20,000. The Luther and Sally Self Auditorium has already been named, as have several classrooms and collaboratory spaces.

Sky over Wendover

Here is a view of the sky over Wendover Avenue, taken from Benjamin Parkway looking east. Greensboro is a relatively flat city so it is not always easy to find expansive, open spaces for a panoramic view. This one was taken from a car window at a stop light while Mr. GDP was driving.The square building peeking out on the left is the fabulous Proximity Hotel. The environmentally-friendly Proximity was the first platinum, LEED rated hotel in the USA (read more). On a sunny day like this, the hotel's solar panels should be busy making energy. 

This beautiful sky with low-level, cumulus clouds was taken a while back. Thunder storms are predicted for Greensboro this weekend; however, let's hope for some nice weather so that we can drive to Sedgefield for the Wyndham Championship.  Even better, book a room at the Proximity by night and, by day, head to the Sedgefield Country Club to watch some amazing golf. In the meantime, we're sharing this photo with Skywatch Friday.

The Big Lebowski at the Carolina Theatre

The Carolina Theatre, located at 310 South Greene Street, is a grand and dynamic place.  Throughout the summer, they show old movies. Nothing beats watching Alfred Hitchcock on the big screen. For Greensboro's The Big Lebowski fans, the classic movie and classic Carolina Theatre come together on Thursday, August 25th for an evening you won't want to miss. Costumes, bowling, white Russians, and audience participation are in order for the upcoming event. In the movie, Jeff Bridges is an unemployed "slacker" who loves to bowl. He gets involved in solving a kidnapping case. The movie has become a cult classic because it is so quotable and audiences love the characters (reference).

When they aren't showing movies, The Carolina Theatre might be having live shows, music events, hosting a production of the Wizard of Oz, or a Fourth of July 1776 music medley. Today, from 2:30- 7:00 p.m., the theatre is hosting The Deuterman Law Group's 3rd annual American Red Cross blood drive. Stop by today, donate blood, and purchase your tickets to next week's Lebowski event.*

While you are at it, you can marvel at the architecture of this 1927 beauty. The poster frames in the above photo are original. When The Carolina Theatre was first built, the poster holders hung outside, one on each side of the door. To preserve them, the poster holders have been moved inside to the foyer and painted green and gold. If you want to learn more about the history and architecture of this Greensboro treasure, here is a great article. Hope to see you there soon!

*Beware, The Big Lebowski is rated "R" and not just for "rowdy." The language and themes are strong in this 1998 comedy written by the famous Coen brothers. 

E is for Elliott, Harriet Elliott

In 1913, seven years before American women had the right to vote, Harriet Wiseman Elliott arrived in Greensboro to teach political science at the State Normal and Industrial School (now, University of North Carolina at Greensboro-- UNCG).  By 1935, Elliott was appointed to the position of Dean of Women for the all-female institution. During the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ms. Elliott became politically and civically active at the national level, serving as a presidential appointee. In the early years of World War II, she was the Consumer Commissioner on the Advisory Commission to the Council of National Defense (1940- 1941). Helping bring WWII to a close, from 1942-1946, she was Chairman of the Woman's Division of the War Finance Committee. And, in 1945, she also served as Deputy Director of the office of Price Administration and was US delegate to the UN Conference on Education, Science, and Cultural Organization-- UNESCO (reference). She died shortly thereafter on August 6, 1947 at the age of sixty three. However, her legacy lives on.

In the above photo, you see the student union, Elliott University Center, on the campus of UNCG. For the institution's 50th anniversary, the Cone family donated money for a student union. The facility was named for Ms. Elliott because of her vision for "a place under one roof where education gained in the classroom could be extended and coordinated with the 'extracurricular' " (reference). In addition to this building, the Harriet Elliott Lectures in Social Sciences are held annually in her memory. To learn more and stay updated on the lecture series, visit the blog for last year's event (here).

 (photo from harrietelliottuncg.wordpress.com)

If we at Greensboro Daily Photo had one wish, it would be for Harriet Elliott's name and face to be featured more prominently at the Elliott University Center. It is easier to enjoy the facility and not have any idea for whom it was named than it is to go there and see references to this great woman who brought her institution national recognition. Finally, we remind you that today's post is part of the ABC Wednesday international meme and E is for Elliott, Harriet Elliott.

See our previous entries here. Stop back next week to see who we've picked for "F."

Boomer's Guns-- Sales & Service

This popsicle green building is Boomer's Guns-- Sales & Service. Boomer's Guns is located at 5101 Yanceyville Street, north of Lee's Chapel Road. We haven't stopped in but always get a little visual jolt, driving along this part of town that is transitioning from rural to suburban, when we see the kiwi green cinder block building. What a great play on words, "boomers" for Baby Boomers and a description of the noise a gun makes when fired.

Enacted legislation, Chapter 14, article 54b outlines the guidelines for carrying a concealed weapon in North Carolina. For the most part, you have to be at least 21; there must be no reason why you shouldn't have one (e.g., mental illness, convicted felon, DUI); and you have to earn the permit and carry it with you. Obtaining an NC Concealed Permit Carry seems to be quite popular across many sectors of the population in Guilford County, including young professionals. Imagine someone coming into your dentist's office asking for valuables and the hygienist intervening, chasing the assailant out the door with her having-been-concealed gun. The 21st century perspective appears to be, "not just criminals should have guns; the good guys/gals should have them too." According to North Carolina's permit-by-county statistics, in 2010, there were 7,736 valid permits and 14,154 applications on file for Guilford County. Mecklenberg and Wake Counties tied with 12,000 permits issued. Jones and Hyde Counties had the least number of issued permits (under 100), in case you are looking for a (nearly) gun-free zone!

Cone Export and Commission Company Building

The above photo features the foyer of the Cone Export and Commission Company building. Built in the early 1920's in the Elizabethan Revival style, the 33,000 square foot building at 330 South Greene Street housed the executive offices of Cone Export. The commodity exchanges for the Cones' business were made here, as opposed to in New York City's Wall Street or Chicago's Commodities Exchange. In 1945, the building was purchased by Southern Life Insurance Company. W.L. Carter Sr. and T.C. Collins Sr. headquartered their thriving insurance business here-- in post-war Greensboro. The building was sold in 1986 (reference and read more great information here).

Today, in addition to the Cemala Foundation (featured yesterday on GDP), the Community Foundation makes its home in this building. The latter non-profit "help(s) individuals, families and organizations establish charitable funds and make annual gifts from the earnings to support worthy causes." Through their website, you can learn how to give financially to Greensboro; how to receive a grant or scholarship; and you can hear what great initiatives and events are happening through the community foundation. An attitude of "giving back" permeates so many facets of the Greensboro community, and Cemala and the Community Foundation are two fine examples.

The walnut paneling, checkerboard floor, historic photos, flowers and touch of chinoiserie make this entrance grande. Visiting children love to stand in the center, look overhead at the rotunda, listen to their voices echo and ponder echolocation.

Irving Park- First Citizens Bank

Today's photo takes us to the corner of West Northwood Street and Huntington Road. (This photo was actually taken at the edge of Edward McCay's parking lot). Here we see the early stages of construction of First Citizens Bank in Irving Park. First Citizens Bank was established in 1898. The four-story, 30,900 square-foot office of the Raleigh-based bank is under construction behind Anton's Restaurant.  In addition to administrative offices, it will be a full-service bank.  Being over 100 years old, one would like to think that they have a clear cut recipe for success that will carry them into the twenty-second century. 

The building will change the landscape of the southern end of Irving Park. It just may be the tallest building in Irving Park. Let's hope they are making an effort to be environmentally responsible and that they will feature local art. Greensboro artist William Mangum is just down the street and Irving Park Elementary School has a mighty fine art program (hint, hint).

Can you find the two American flags billowing in the breeze? By the way, readership has been up this week. Thank you to our new readers as well as our longtime readers. Readers, like YOU, make this mom and pop volunteer-effort all worthwhile. Please spread the word that we're here.

We're sharing this photo with viewers around the world through Skywatch Friday. Have a great weekend!

Lincoln Financial Group

Since Mr. Joseph Bryan was featured yesterday on GDP, we thought a photo of Lincoln Financial Group would be a nice follow up post. Lincoln Financial is housed in the complex that was built as the Jefferson Standard Building in 1923 by Mr. Bryan's father-in-law, Julian Price. The design of the building was modeled after early-20th-century NYC skyscrapers. Its U shape enhanced light and airflow back in the days before air conditioning. The architectural style is known as Beaux-Arts with Romanesque flourishes (reference). The building's façade contains white granite from the Mt. Airy, North Carolina quarry. In the above photo, we see people enjoying the Fourth of July parade on the southwest corner of the building.

As the USA enters this difficult time of deciding how best to manage national debt and spending, may the situation be resolved in a way that is in the best interest of our country. From individual citizens to businesses and financial groups to municipalities on up, we all could benefit from a refresher course in the meaning of fiscal responsibility. Now THAT would make Mr. Bryan proud!

Twin Oaks Ministry

Twin Oaks Ministry, located at 5935 Burlington Road, has a Greensboro water tower in yard; however, technically, the address is McLeansville-- home of American Idol musician Chris Daughtry. Twin Oaks is a Christian-based church, but their denomination isn't immediately clear from their website. They place emphasis on missions for people of all ages and have a Wycliffe Mission. Wycliffe is a group founded in 1942 for the purpose of translating the Bible and making it accessible to speakers of languages that don't yet have translations.

Twin Oaks looks like so many of the white, metal peaked-roof churches along the country roads. This building is across the street from a tobacco field which looks like it is getting ready to be harvested. Every Sunday, we make an effort to post something spiritual and we are always excited when the billowy white clouds float along to be used as a backdrop for our photographs.

Little House by the BIG HOUSE

Here we see a little house at 220 South Eugene Street with the BIG HOUSE in its back yard. Six months ago, we featured the jail under construction (here) and the Zenke family properties that had to be moved to make room for the new facility (here). The little yellow house is actually part of the administrative complex of the Guilford County New Detention Center-- the official name for the BIG HOUSE. The yellowish building with the rounded dormers is the Office of the Sheriff. Between it and the little house is the Personnel and Training Office. If you are local you might enjoy walking around the block to view the new facility and all of the ancillary buildings. If you have children, it would be a great opportunity to explain the judicial process and the difference between a jail and a prison. If you want you can walk across the street to the court house and sit in on a court case.

For Greensboro, getting a new $85+ million dollar, new 1,032-bed detention center is bittersweet. On the one hand we need the space; on the other, it is unfortunate that we have so many crimes committed. As the News & Record points out, current budget cuts will impact this new facility. Sheriff Barnes gives a compelling argument for needing adequate staffing.

High above Elm Street

High above Elm Street is a whole world teeming with activity. Here we see a rooftop area for rest and relaxation. When weather permits, people with rooftop access are up here enjoying the sun. The triangular tarp to the left keeps the sun at bay on extra warm days. Many of the buildings downtown have fabulous outdoor spaces either terraces above or alleys behind. The building in the photo is in the 200 block of Elm Street, near Triad Stage and across the street from Shiffman's Jewery Store. Probably the most famous terrace in downtown Greensboro is the one at the nearby Kress building.

If you are looking for something to do this summer, find a new vantage point from which you can enjoy your city. We were at the Greene Street parking garage when shooting this photo (as well as this one). Here's to a great week. Happy "fresh start" Monday!

 

Aerial View of Southside

Here we see an aerial view of Greensboro's Southside neighborhood in all of its glory on a warm, summer day. If you want to learn a LOT about the neighborhood, located on the southeast tip of the city, please follow the link for the quote:

"Greensboro, North Carolina's Southside neighborhood, a 10-acre revitalization project, is one of the city's first significant mixed-use infill projects.Greensboro's Department of Housing and Community Development developed a traditional neighborhood district ordinance-- based on the Southside Area Development Plan adopted by the Greensboro city council in 1995-- to assist Southside's redevelopment" (Buntin & Low). Southside has been wildly successful and, Buntin and Low report that before re-development, this 10-acre area took in less than 1/2 million in tax revenue and post-development takes in around 10 million in tax revenue. 

If you are looking for something to do with so many extra hours of daylight, we suggest heading over to Southside, perhaps even to the Vintage301 Restaurant, to see what's cookin'. We're proud to share these clouds drifting through the radiant sky with our friends at Skywatch Friday. 

 

Gone Elsewhere?

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us and Greensboro is about as crowded as the front window of ELSEWHERE. Many people have gone to the beach or to the mountains. For sure, lots of our residents are are ELSEWHERE. North Carolina is lucky to have landforms ranging from the beach to the mountains and this weekend represents the kick-off for summer. Students are in school for a couple of more weeks; however, mentally, summer begins for us with this holiday. People who do stay in town, likely, will head to their community pool.

ELSEWHERE, photographed above, is "a living museum designing collaborative futures from old things." Basically, it is the remnants of a thrift shop where nothing has been for sale since proprietor Sylvia Gray died. Her grandson has transformed the space into a living, working museum in the 600 block of South Elm Street, across from the Mellow Mushroom. We love the dynamic nature of the storefront that changes almost weekly. If you read this before 2pm, you might want to stop by their Saturday creative workshop for children of all ages.

We're sharing this with our friends at Weekend Reflections where all the photos have some sort of reflection.

Old Tobacco Barn

This tobacco barn, located in Guilford County, is about the polar opposite of yesterday's Summit Avenue mansion. However, don't be fooled, this humble structure has a big role in North Carolina's history. Tobacco was first introduced to North Carolina when the early settlers from Virginia were looking for a crop that would grow in the poor soil of the sandhills and would be marketable in Europe.  North Carolina ranks first in the US with respect to tobacco production and every step of the process from leaves in fields to the finished pack can be found in our state. The 2006, annual farm income for tobacco was $506.2 million (reference). UNC--TV has a fabulous timeline on the history of tobacco in North Carolina (here).

Today's photo represents the farming end of the cigarette industry. Historically, tobacco farming was a whole-community effort. When the tobacco was ready, it was not uncommon for children to unload the sleds of tobacco pulled in by the mules & tractors. Men, including young adults, primed the tobacco and hung it in the barns. Often it was the women who tied tobacco to sticks. Basically, everyone chipped in to get the tobacco ready.

North Carolina has a love-hate relationship with the product. As much as tobacco contributes to our place in the global economy, we know how bad it is for one's health and can only hope that our friends and loved ones don't partake. Previously, we featured the farm end here and the manufacturing end here. 

Destiny Christian Center

Destiny Christian Center (DCC) is our Sacred Sunday feature. Pastor Lee Stokes founded DCC in January 2000. The congregation began with a handful of people in Jamestown. It has grown significantly over the last decade. March 2009, DCC moved into the 3000 seat facility, photographed above, located at 2401 Randleman Road. We think this building was formerly a department store and before DCC moved in, it was an antique store. See more of our Randleman Road features earlier this week.

While we couldn't find a denominational affiliation, DCC is a God and Christ-based religion. We hope you enjoy your Sunday! 

ACC Hall of Champions

One of Greensboro's newest venues is the ACC Hall of Champions on High Point Road at the Coliseum complex. Here she is in all her glory, having recently opened to the public on March 3rd, 2011. If you are a college sports fan, you probably already know that the ACC was founded in Greensboro in 1953. This hall/museum was assembled to document and celebrate the high points of the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Hall of Champions has interactive displays and exhibits documenting the league's 58 year history. The exhibit everyone is talking about is the 4-ft., 360 degree video-globe at the entrance. On the exterior, in the gray panel to the right, you can see the logos of the ACC teams.

If you are local, we hope you can stop by for a real visit (open Wed. - Sunday). Sounds like a great field trip for PE teachers. If you are from elsewhere, you can visit virtually. We're sharing this post with Skywatch Friday, a dedicated group of sky lovers who will jump, block, tackle and flip over these fluffy clouds in the Carolina Blue sky!