Greensboro Daily Photo

Groundhog Day 2012

Groundhog Day 2012 has come and gone this week. Do you know the origin of the holiday? Do you follow the results? According to the predictions of both Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania AND Sir Walter Wally's in North Carolina, there will be six more weeks of winter. Ironically, good weather on any given February 2nd, Groundhog Day, indicates winter will linger. In the USA, we have been maintaining this tradition for over 125 years. Pennsylvania's early settlers brought the following saying from Europe: "For as the sun shines on Candlemas Day, so far will the snow swirl in May..."* Candlemas is the 40th day after Christmas. So, historically, Groundhog Day is linked to Christianity.

Information related to North Carolina's groundhog-predictor is archived through the State Climate Office of North Carolina. Check here on March 15th, if you want to follow up on the accuracy of Sir Walter Wally's 2012 prediction. On the same website, archived through NC State University, you can check the groundhog's record in previous years.  Last time we checked, the Greensboro's own Natural Science Center had "Woody" the Groundhog on the prediction circuit, too.

As for the above groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, whistle-pig, and land-beaver,  he was seen frequently in our yard in Greensboro this summer. We're guessing he'll be back...... sometime after March 15th. As far as we can tell, he's never poked his head out on February 2nd. Care to name him?

 *Huffington Post reference here.

Dudley High School Marching Band

Here we see a photo of the Dudley High School Marching Band marching its heart out at the 2011 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. If you are local and can be there by 11 a.m., RUN to Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive to attend the parade this year. You will see many bands from Guilford County Schools marching their hearts out; floats with participants tossing candy; adept equestrians on their horses; fraternities and sororities walking and riding with their brothers and sisters; inspirational drum lines with their cadence;  and people from all walks of life out showing respect. Participants and onlookers will be rallying for the dream of equality in America. Today is one of the top service learning days in Greensboro and, while teachers and students are out of school for this holiday, many are out making  civic contributions. Perhaps we should consider monthly service learning days. People working in concert to help those in need and combining their effort for the good of the whole community would be wonderful!

Dudley High School, located on East Lee Street and not too far from today's parade route, was founded in 1929 as the first black high school in Guilford County. Since 1971, the school has been integrated. We wish Dudley High had more history archived on their website. Dudley High School is located just down the street from Bennett College and North Carolina A&T University, two historically black institutions of higher education. Often aligned with Bennett and A&T's efforts, Dudley High School has participated significantly in some of the civil rights milestones in the city. Also, Dudley's faculty and administration have made significant contributions in our city's efforts towards intigration. Read a, now retired, former principal's narrative here. And, here is a Wiki entry listing the names of people you will recognize who attended Dudley. Go Panthers!

Coffee Shop Temperatures

The crisp air makes it perfect coffee shop weather. Time to download a good book and head out for a fresh cup of java. The above photo was taken in the Starbucks at Jefferson Village. We like to feature the independent coffee shops at Greensboro; however, Starbucks provides their employee with benefits and the customers with a good dose of personal service. We stopped by to try the blonde, light-roast, coffee-- something fun to do. 

In Greensboro, a high of 41 and low of 25 is predicted for today. At least we're not dealing with record snowfall like in Alaska. As a matter of fact, we really haven't had any snowfall at all, just a little cold snap. Perfect coffee weather. Do you know the temperature of an average cup of coffee?  From about 165-185 degrees-- perfect for warming you up quickly. Have a great weekend and let us know how you are spending this three day weekend.

Joy to World!

Merry Christmas and joy to the world!  The hymn, Joy to the World, was written by English hymn writer Isaac Watts in 1719, is based on Psalm 98 in the Bible (reference). He actually wrote it for Christ's return to earth, not for his birth (more here). In 1839, Lowell Mason adapted and arranged the music and, as of the late 20th century, Joy to the World was North America's most-published Christmas hymn. It may still be! We hope that, for you and your loved ones, today shapes up to be a day of beauty, joy, and peace. Christmas on a Sunday is especially spiritual..........

For the photo today, we're sharing this metallic globe housed at Bin 33 Restaurant downtown on Elm Street as it reminds us of the carol, Joy to the World. The sculpture weighs about 200 pounds and is approximately 4 1/2 feet in diameter with lights on the inside. According to sculptor Jeff Taylor, he and Eric Beerbower took on this project for New Year's Eve 2010.  Once they constructed "The Ball", they used a boom crane to get it in place above Bin 33. At midnight, they lowered it down a cable, from an I-beam, above the balcony on the fifth floor. While they don't have plans (permission) to repeat this feat for New Year's Eve 2011, the glowing artifact remains perched prominently on the patio of Bin 33 for all to enjoy. Once he gets relocated to a new studio, we plan to feature the talented Jeff Taylor*, an artist who can make just about anything.

From our little spot in Greensboro (and on the metal globe) we say "joy to the world" and we encourage you to visit this website to see how to say that phrase in 24 different languages! Perhaps if we say it enough, there will be peace on earth!

 If you are interested, contact Jeff through his girlfriend's website.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse........ Actually, the audience was waiting patiently for Billy "Crash" Craddock to come out on stage to entertain them. And, according to people who attended, the performance was outstanding. The event was held at the Liberty Showcase, located in Liberty, NC on 101S Fayetteville Street. The community of Liberty is about 20 minutes southeast of Greensboro, in Randolph County. Liberty Showcase features live entertainment just about every Saturday night and this Saturday, New Year's Eve, is sure to be great, fun, family entertainment.

We love the above photo as it exudes a cozy feeling of enjoying an evening with family and friends. It also evokes a feeling of anticipation, waiting for something special. So many families around the world tonight will be doing just that........ waiting.......... and waiting.......... for a little old driver so lively and quick, they will know when they see him, it must be Saint Nick! Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

....Thanks to Mitch Luther for another great photo. As we are about to begin our fourth year of Greensboro Daily Photo and posting DAILY, we're growing rather fond of an occassional photo from a guest photograhper. Every day comes around pretty often!

Santa Claus at Four Seasons Mall

At the Four Seasons Mall, families wait in line for their children to have a few minutes with Santa Claus. He is a jolly man and a good listener. He is very patient and waits as long as it takes for the photo opportunity to be just perfect. After all, these are memories of a lifetime that children are building.

The mall has been hopping this week as shoppers make their last minute purchases. People seem to be in good spirits and the sales help is generally cheerful and helpful. We were especially impressed with the employees of the kiosks. The woman at the calender kiosk, the man at the ornament stand, and the stylists at the hair straightener station were so knowledgeable. And the flying, mylar fish booth was impressive. If you have time, get an on the spot back and neck massage. We were waited on by people from Turkey, Mexico, Maine, Vietnam, Israel, and North Carolina-- truly a multicultural experience.

By 9:30 pm on December 22nd, people were lined up to purchase the Air Jordan X1 Retro Holiday 2011 tennis shoe the minute it was released. Technically, they were to be sold on December 23rd. Perhaps shoppers had to wait until midnight. Perhaps Santa put a few pairs on his sleigh.........

Wagoner's Trees

The Wagoners of Guilford County have been selling Christmas trees in Greensboro, according to one website since 1939 and, according to another, 1960.  Regardless, they have been growing trees in Gibsonville and selling them around Greensboro for a very long time. The inflatable Santa, in the center of the above lot, announces a Wagoner Christmas tree lot. The one in the photo is on New Garden Road. Another famous Wagoner lot is in Friendly Center and, yet another, is on Battleground Avenue near Honeybaked  Ham. Children delight in the annual ritual of selecting a Christmas tree. As you can see, the man selling trees in the photo was wearing short sleeves and shorts. Although it has been a little colder over the last few days, in Greensboro, we have been spared inclement weather.

Hanukkah begins at sundown today.  Christmas is in five days.  Tomorrow is the last day of public school and the excitement of the children can hardly be contained. If you haven't already purchased your Christmas tree, you'd better act quickly as the tree lots will soon be closing up shop until next season.

Christmas 1944 & The Battle of the Bulge

While the popular media has been featuring holiday homes of "Deck-a-hall-ics" with over-the-top decorations, Greensboro has a house depicting a serious, historical event from Christmas 1944: The Battle of the Bulge. The house, photographed above, is located on Deep Green Drive, just off of Westridge Road, near Bryan Blvd. As seen in the sign, the three life-size soldiers (warming their hands over a fire) are replicas of soldiers of the 101st Airborne, "The Screaming Eagles." The Battle of the Bulge was fought in Bastogne, Belgium during World War II. With lawn after lawn brimming with blinking lights and inflatables, it is nice to find one that provides a different look at Christmas. 

If you are really interested in military history, and this event in particular, we encourage you to read an online journal of the event, as told by Eduardo A. Peniche. Peniche, a bilingual, Mexican-American, provides a first-hand account of the event. After his military career, Peniche went on to become a professor of Spanish in Texas. Unfortunately, Combat Veteran/Professor Peniche died in 2008; he would have loved this tribute. As we enter this week before Christmas and with Hanukkah about so start, let us take time to remember that not every holiday is Norman-Rockwell perfect and let us be thankful if it is!

Addendum: We have just learned that a sculptor modeled the three faces after a photo of the homeowner's uncle, father, and father-in-law, who all fought at the Battle of the Bulge. The uncle, represented by the figure on the left, came to view the display last weekend. Touching!

 

Feliz Navidad

Credited with the first nativity scene is St. Francis of Assisi in 1223. His hope is said to have been getting people to emphasize the birth of Christ over secular materialism. In exactly one week, Christians will be balancing the delight of gift giving with deciding whether or not to attend church as Christmas is on Sunday this year.

The above Peruvian crèche is one of many offered for sale at 10,000 Villages. Since we didn't make out to Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church to see their Living Nativity, we're having to settle for these little hand-crafted scenes of wonder. Manger scenes are especially popular in Catholicism and many people don't actually take them down until February 2nd. 

If you celebrate Christmas, try to find time to catch your breath today as this time next week you will be in holiday frenzy. If you own a crèche, be sure to talk to it in the language of its country of origin. The above clay, baby Jesus is precious with his little cap and, to him, we whisper, "Feliz navidad." If you talk to Santa, tell him we'd love to find this crèche under the tree.

Merry REDneck Christmas Ya'll

We met this tattooed man, L. F. Lance, last weekend while shopping at Friendly Center. As it turns out this "REDneck" in camouflage is a really nice person who was shopping for Christmas gifts with loved ones. He was at Bath & Body Works for at least 15-20 minutes, we might add. 

This upbeat, ever-smiling, genuinely cheerful man said that he got the RED tattoo on his neck because he is a self-proclaimed redneck. Needless to say, the tattoo attracts a lot of attention. Lance, originally from High Point and now living in Kernersville, has a friend who plans to put a photo of the tattoo in his album liner notes. We take it the music will be music for RED necks. The play on words is brilliant... and permanent! Lance is proof positive that you can't judge a book by its cover.

We're sharing this post, Merry "REDneck Christmas ya'll, over at Weekend Reflections.

O Little Town of Bethlehem

Creche season is upon us and the one above is located at the intersection of Friendly and Ridgeway Avenues at Centenary United Methodist Church.*  From pumpkin patches to membership drives to Christmas festivities, the Friendly Avenue side of Centenary is a year-round tableau of church events for all to see. This nativity scene is one such example.

This time of year, many people travel to and from work in the dark. The gloomy hours of darkness punctuate the beauty of December's holiday decorations.  Darkness...darkness...darkness.... WOW... color and light appear out of nowhere. Thoughts are briefly redirected from rush hour and looming chores to the sights before you:

And the Angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people (Luke 2:10).

Soon, a car pulls up, time for the next driver's moment of solitude at the little town of Bethlehem. You push on-- towards Greensboro. Behold, a few blocks away, appears a nativity scene on the hill at Greensboro College......... a happy Sunday to all (and to all a good night).

*Centenary was the church that lost its steeple to high winds in February 2010 (see here).

Night at the Movies

Going to a movie is a great winter activity, especially if the weather is bad. Also, many good movies have been released in the hopes of making Oscar nominations for 2011. Many family-friendly movies are currently showing. From the Muppet movie to Happy Feet 2 to Puss in Boots to Arthur Christmas to Hugo, and more, there are plenty of movies to enjoy over winter break. Today, we're sharing a photo taken at the Regal Greensboro Grande at Friendly Center. If you are local, likely you know this theater well. We love the cranberry glow it casts at night.

If you celebrate Christmas, why don't you take a few minutes this weekend and write out your top ten list for favorite Christmas movies; then compare it to the one from the Washington Times here. That way, not only can you head to the movie theater, you can also watch the classics at home. We know one thing for sure, after we go to the movies tonight, we're heading to nearby Ridgeway and Madison in Sunset Hills to feast our eyes on the original streets aglow with light balls thrown high in the trees (see here).

Happy Weekend, all!

Midnight Clear on Elm Street

Elm Street is magical on a cold winter's night. Downtown Greensboro looks like it did almost a century ago-- charming and well maintained with lots of brick façades and nothing ultra modern in appearance from Market Street and to the south. It is as if O Henry, Lunsford Richardson, and John Van Lindley could be strolling along the street listening to carolers and talking to friends.

In the above photo, First Friday was winding down yet the road was still blocked to cars. Pedestrians were making the most of the opportunity to stroll along the street. The evening was so well attended and so many community members were involved, we can't help but think Greensboro could use another event or two like this before the end of the year. If you want to keep up with events downtown, 99 blocks is a great start.

We're sharing this night sky with our friends at Skywatch Friday. 

Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)

As with most of the USA, this is a big travel weekend for the people of Greensboro. Above, we see a photo of the Piedmont Triad International Airport -- GSO in airport three-letter code. Located eight miles west of Greensboro, the surface address is 6415 Bryan Boulevard, Greensboro, NC 27409. Lindley Field was formally opened to passengers on May 28, 1927 and, flew its first passenger to New York in July. The field was named for the Lindley family who owned the land originally.

In November 2009, 68,954 passengers traveled through GSO; In November 2010, the number increased to 75,634.* It will be interesting to follow the statistics for this November.

This was the calm before the storm of travelers. 

*Statistics here.

Stephie's Birds

For Black Friday, we're headed out for a little retail therapy. What better way to start the day than to head over to Stephie's Birds to see some GIANT feathered friends!  Stephie, a second generation bird breeder/handler, is known up and down the east coast for her breeding of fabulously beautiful, healthy birds, of all sizes. From scarlet macaws to purple parakeets, her expertise in all issues related to birds keeps even a few vets ringing her phone. Above, a cockatoo named Chance watches over the store. In addition to selling birds, Stephie finds new homes for birds that the original owners can no longer keep. 

Recently Stephie's Birds relocated to North Battleground across from Wal-Mart.

While we only show a sliver of the sky in the photo above, we're sharing this photo with our friends at Skywatch Friday. We'll be sure to snap a few more photos when we are out finding bargains. How are you spending the day?

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

"Over the river and through the wood to grandfather's house we go... we would not stop for doll or top for this is Thanksgiving Day...."  No poem evokes the memory of Thanksgiving more than Lydia Maria Child's 1844 poem about the holiday. If you have time, read it with your family (here). So many of us have fond memories of visiting our grandparents or, perhaps, being the grandparent making those memories of holiday fellowship with family. Coming together, breaking bread, and celebrating the generations is at the core of who we are as North Carolinians.

The house above peeks out beyond a make-shift dirt parking lot, waiting to be filled with the vehicles full of travelers arriving for a Thanksgiving feast. Beyond the old oak tree, you see  Early Farms  on Bethel Church Road in Gibsonville. The Earlys are fifth generation farmers; so we imagine they'll be serving up some savory, Guilford-County-grown vegetables. Who knows, living in a rural part of the county, they may have procured a wild turkey.

Veterans Day 2011

Veterans Day is a time to remember those who have served in the military. It grew out of Armistice Day at the time of World War I which ended in the 11th hour in the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Well, today is a very special day because it is 11/11/11. Do you know where you will be/were at 11:11? Today, most government offices are closed, as are Guilford County Schools. Hopefully everyone will take time to remember the sacrifices made by service people and their families. Many restaurants are giving discounts to veterans. If you are one, don't forget to ask!

The above photo was taken at a Memorial Day event at Friendly Center; however, it shows veterans interacting with each other and it was very clearly taken in Greensboro. Maybe by Veterans Day next year, there can be world peace. Read about world peace on Wikipedia (here).

It isn't much of a sky in the background, but we're sharing it with Skywatch Friday.

Ai Cemetery

On  Day of the Dead, today we are floating through Ai Cemetery in remembrance of those who are in eternal rest. The Day of the Dead, or El Día de los Muertos, is a holiday akin to Catholicism's All Saints' and All Souls' Days. In Mexico, there is a decidedly indigenous/Aztec flavor to the celebration. The deceased are honored by gathering in homes, at churches, and in cemeteries. It is a time to remember the dearly departed with little offerings of the deceased family member's favorite food, beverages, and with little gifts. It is said that the final death on earth comes when nobody living remembers you.

If such a holiday were celebrated widely in Greensboro, the McGready descendants would be singing and dancing in Ai Cemetery right now. Nancy L. McGready, who was born in 1797 and died in 1858, is buried in this cemetery adjacent to Ai Church. The surname, McGready, is a variant of the Gaelic word meaning "trained" or "expert." The McGready's were some of the early settlers to Guilford County. James McGready migrated to Guilford County from Pennsylvania in 1778 and settled near David Caldwell's congregation. McGready, pious from childhood, became a minister and had congregations in Haw River and Stony Creek.* Now that we've learned about the McGready's, we'll need to return to Ai Cemetery to see if the preacher is buried there. As for where "Ai" got its name, nobody knows for sure.

For more information on Preacher McGready of Guilford County, read chapter 4 of The Great Revival: The beginnings of the Bible Belt by John B. Boles.

Masquerade Ball

The Weatherspoon Art Museum was wall-to-wall people and had so much positive energy last night at their event, Masquerade. The evening was filled with makeup artists, hair stylists, photographers, and fun. Masquerade was held in conjunction with the exhibit entitled, "Persona: A Body in Parts" that centered around the theme of multiple representations of the self. As we walked through the gallery, a docent accompanied us explaining the artistic process and thought behind each piece. The exhibit was the perfect backdrop for this Halloween weekend event where people dressed in masks, costumes, and face paint.

The Membership Committee of the Weatherspoon held the event in an effort to gain new members. We don't know how many people actually joined tonight but, surely, talk of this event will ripple through the community and bring the museum even more visibility-- maybe even members. From La Calavera Catrina to a life-sized, walking Lisa Frank trapper keeper, creativity abounded. A good time was had by all. Masks and hats off to Greensboro for another fun, FREE, event. Wouldn't it be great for the Weatherspoon to make this an annual event.

Happy Labor Day 2011!

Happy Labor Day! We hope you are enjoying this last hurrah of summer. Labor Day typically marks the end of summer on the east coast (even though we have a few more weeks until autumn actually begins). In North Carolina, crops, for the most part, have been harvested. People have put away their white shoes. Vacations are winding down. Retail stores are offering GREAT discounts as they transition to fall merchandise.  

In Ancient Egypt, the obelisk symbolized Ra, the sun god and obelisks were said to represent a petrified ray of the sun. So, the above obelisk reminds us that even though the days are getting shorter, the sun will hover for a while and then be back in full force before we know it. If you are from Greensboro, can you guess where this obelisk is located? If not look here. Even better, look here to see a better representation of Labor Day in Greensboro.

Greensboro Fire Rescue on Elm St.

According to their website, "The Greensboro Fire Department operates 33 fire companies from 23 fire stations strategically located throughout the City of Greensboro."  Firemen are an important and much-needed part of any community. They not only cover fires, rescues, and hazardous material incidents, they are first responders for all medical emergencies. In their non-emergency work times, firemen make every effort to interact with the community. Above, they have a ladder truck and water to share in the Fun Fourth festivities on Elm Street. 

Fire departments have been affected by the economic downturn and are spread thin. Many districts are depending more and more on volunteers. Next time you see a fire fighter, thank him/her. Our city wouldn't be the same without them. For August 1st, the City Daily Photo theme around the world is "Postcard Worthy." Since the whole world could be clicking through today, we wanted to share a scene of people out having fun in our community and a photo with the word "Greensboro" on it. 

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

We dedicate today's post to our blogging buddy, Abe Lincoln, over at Brookville (OH) Daily Photo whose testimonial will remind you why you should never smoke and will reaffirm what we have said above about responders to medical emergencies!

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!

July 4th in Kirkwood

Every event needs a focal point and The Kirkwood July Fourth Parade has the larger-than-life flag in the middle of a road named Independence! This scene on Independence Road in Greensboro's Kirkwood neighborhood has been reenacted for sixty three years. Anyone can don a red, white, & blue outfit and participate. Yesterday, children on vehicles of all sorts--bicycles, wagons, trucks, tricycles, and even stilts-- rode along passing under the giant FLAG. 

Every year, the parade gets a little more elaborate while remaining consistently informal. This year The Honorable Howard Coble was in attendance, Robbie Perkins was handing out bottled water, and the floats of the Guilford County Republican Party brought a little bit of politics to the parade. The sense of family, neighborliness, and camaraderie was evident and more treats were tossed to onlookers than in most city parades. The five o'clock time slot was just perfect, allowing families to enjoy the Fun Fourth festivities downtown in the morning and fireworks at the coliseum/amphitheater in the evening. For those who were too tired to venture out at night, there was plenty of backyard sparkler twirling to bring closure to the festive day.

Mr. Fourth of July

Mr. Fourth of July was spotted at the Greensboro Arboretum at the Summer Solstice event in June. He was last seen talking to his special, fairy-winged lady. Hopefully the couple will make an appearance at the Fourth of July events in Greensboro. He is a human bumper sticker, in full Fourth-of-July regalia and displaying "USA" on his forearm. 

This year, Greensboro's fireworks have been moved from Jameison Stadium (Grimsley High School) to the White Oak Amphitheatre at the Coliseum Complex. Let's hope the move will be a good one for the community.  This is the photo we published from last year's display and are optimistic that display at the new location will be as beautiful.

What is the most patriotic you've ever dressed? Why don't you dress up today, have someone take a photo and send it to us. We'd love to feature a reader or two! 

Honorable Howard Coble... En Route

Congressman Howard Coble spoke at Sunday's Memorial Day event at Forest Lawn Cemetery. He was one of many retired military personnel who participated in the event. His own military service includes five years of active duty in the U.S. Coast Guard and eighteen years of additional duty in the reserves. This action shot shows the congressman immediately after he finished his speech, at about 1:10, racing to his car to make a 2:00 speaking engagement in Asheboro. Congressman Coble works hard to maintain visibility throughout the entire sixth district. Having served since 1985, he is the longest-serving Republican congressman in North Carolina. This distinction indicates he is making his constituents happy.

Age does not seem to get in Congressman Coble's way; at eighty, he beelined to his car without assistance. We hope he made his speaking engagement on time. On a personal note, he has pledged not to take a pension when/if he retires!

Have a happy last day of the month to you AND to Congressman Coble. 

Memorial Day 2011

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 53 organized the The 2011 Memorial Day Program, held yesterday in the Veterans Plot of the Forest Lawn Cemetery. The guest speaker was the Honorable J. Howard Coble. The program included the presentation of floral tributes, singing, a reading of the roll of honor, and benediction. One of the most touching moments of the program, however, was when those who previously served bowed their heads in reflection as the Southeast High School JNROTC saluted those who gave their lives in service to country by firing rifles and and playing Taps.

Upon leaving the cemetery, we noticed a man in his lawn chair beside the grave of a loved one. Before the big movement of designing urban parks, at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century by Downing, Olmstead, and the likes (here), cemeteries played more of a role in our leisure time outdoors. It was commonplace to spend an afternoon, or to have a picnic, in a cemetery. Today, cemetery visits are largely limited to military holidays and funerals. If you want to teach a young child about the meaning of Memorial Day, it is not too late to visit the Veteran's Section of Forest Lawn Cemetery. It is ablaze with American flags and red, white, & blue bouquets.

Mother's Day 2011

Today is Mother's Day; hopefully, you are celebrating the day with your mother-- either in person or in spirit. The above photo of a mother and her children was taken at the Revolutionary War reenactment in Country Park this past March. The mom walks with her sons tethered to her side. (During the colonial era, little boys wore loose gowns until they were potty trained). Leading the way, her daughter walks confidently a few paces ahead. The picture represents motherhood at its best-- a rewarding, uphill, hike, enjoying your little miracles of life every step of the way. 

In honor of all the moms out there, we'd like to share a few Sacred Sunday quotes:

Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living ~~Genesis 3:20

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all of my life. ~~Abraham Lincoln

If you have a mom, there is nowhere you are likely to go where a prayer has not already been. ~~Robert Brault.

I miss thee, my Mother. Thy image is still the deepest impressed on my heart. ~~Eliza Cook

                                                                                                                        (more quotes here).

Ronald McDonald Points the Way

Since we mentioned McDonald's on Saturday and yesterday we featured another larger than life character, today, we bring you Ronald McDonald. Ronald seems to have been inspired by "The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe." The photo dates back to January when Ronald and the Giant Shoe wheeled down Martin Luther King Drive for the MLK parade. Maybe McDonald's are quick to support the Greensboro Community because the first McDonald's Restaurant in North Carolina* opened in Greensboro in 1959 on Summit Avenue. Last year, we featured that McDonald's here.

In the above photo, Ronald is pointing to beautiful, thriving downtown Greensboro. He also happens to be pointing in the direction of the street we will feature tomorrow, the "M" in our ABC Wednesday street collection. Do stop back. Finally, we would be remiss if we didn't share this photo with our friends at Ruby Tuesday where they just can't seem to get enough RED!

*thank you for catching this error Roch!

MLK Parade Float

The Martin Luther King Day Parade was such a positive community event that we decided to close out February with a float from the parade. These teenagers rode on the back of a truck on a very cold January day doing their civic duty, instead of sleeping in on a holiday from school. The young ladies seemed to recognize many people along the way and were quick to wave at people (like us) with cameras in hand.

Did you notice that all four teenagers have a phone in hand? Today's youth are never more than an arm's length from communication with the world. Their attachment to instant and constant communication is something parents, teachers, friends and employers must address-- perhaps even embrace. Gone are the days when we have each others' undivided attention. 

Do stop back tomorrow, March 1st to help us kick off the City Daily Photo community's theme day theme: Your favorite part of town. That will be a hard choice!

GTG. TTYL....

African American History Month: Greensboro Style

As African American History Month winds down, we wanted to share another photo of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade last month. The woman in the photo above marched the entire length of the parade down Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive with Dr. King's image held high. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has been a national holiday since 1986.

African American History Month is one of America's efforts to pay tribute to "the generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve full citizenship in American society" (Library of Congress, here).  This month, one of the most thought provoking tributes we've seen to the contributions of African American citizens was found on the door of a middle school classroom. All of the students selected and wrote a heartfelt thank you note to a different African American. May we all make an effort to respect the inherent worth and dignity of everyone, regardless of where we live. May we express these efforts through actions, words, and writing. Whom would you thank?

Clemmons Florist on Friendly Avenue

Sunday afternoon at sunset, Clemmons Florist employees were busy working non-stop to get their Valentine's Day orders prepared. Clemmons is located at 219 West Friendly Avenue, beside West Market Street United Methodist Church.  This third-generation, family-owned florist has been a downtown Greensboro institution for over 55 years. Usually, they are able to provide same-day service-- thought not likely on Valentine's Day. While the building is plain, the sky is the limit with the floral arrangements they dream up inside. 

Today, we are reminded that Valentine's Day is not about you or someone else. It is about you AND someone else, the "we." If it is too late to send flowers, or that expense is not in your budget, try picking up the phone and delivering a heartfelt message... a singing valentine.  Be creative with your signs of affection. How about filling someone's driveway with sidewalk chalk hearts?

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to all of our readers. Thank you for your visits. XOXOXO

Steelers Fans in Greensboro

Last month, these Pittsburgh Steelers fans were standing around waiting for the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. parade to begin. As seen on the green street sign, they were gathered on Martin Luther King Jr Drive in East Greensboro. It was a gray winter day.  Informal surveys and NFL clothing choices indicated that more citizens of Greensboro were in favor of the Pittsburgh Steelers. So, today is not only a sad day for Pittsburgh but also for Steelers fans in Greensboro and across the nation. The Super Bowl was an exciting game-- determined by the last possession. Congratulations to the Green Bay Packers. Even with injuries, they played a great game. We hope the man in the center of the photo continues to wear his jacket as six Super Bowl wins is something to be proud of. If he has one, can, however, put his terrible towels, away!

Greensboro is a great sports city. We love athletic events of all kinds and are especially excited that the Women's and Men's 2011 ACC Basketball Championships are in Greensboro in March! Check out our old March Madness photos.

Martin Luther King, Jr.-- Parade 2011

The Greensboro Chapter of the NAACP hosted yesterday's 2011 Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade. Here we see Grand Marshals,  Maurice "Mo" Green and Sandra Hughes. Mr. Green is the superintendent of Guilford County Schools and Ms. Hughes is a retired WFMY news anchor. The parade route was held along Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, just east of downtown Greensboro. In spite of the cold weather, spirits were high as onlookers reflected on the parade's purpose and Rev. King's impact on civil rights in not only our city but also our country. The parade was an intergenerational experience. Adults talked, embraced, and greeted people they knew as they rode by. Children waited patiently for the next group that would toss candy into the crowd. People in cars drove with windows down not just waiving but reminding kids to stay in school, go to college, and to believe in their dreams. The weather was gray; the enthusiasm was technicolor!

Last year's photo for MLK Day was the MLK, Jr. bust, found at the corner of MLK, Jr Drive and Elm Street (see here). We forgot to link to it yesterday.

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Here we see a singing quartet at First Friday in Downtown Greensboro on December 3rd. What a great way to ring in the holiday with people singing carols. The first known Christmas carols date to fourth century Rome and the tradition has many interesting facets (read more here). Caroling quartets with their a capella, vocal harmonies, bring the holiday season alive. We wish we knew the name of this festive, costumed  group singing on South Elm Street. They were fabulous.

Merry Christmas Greensboro. The best Christmas present for us would be to let us know what we can post for you in the upcoming year.

Merry Night-Before Christmas

From the spiritual to commercial, lay to secular, Greensboro has been blessed with many festive events this December. Here is a scene from the recent Craftsman's Classic Arts and Crafts Fair at the Coliseum on High Point Road. The scene represents the spirit of the holiday-- fellowship with family and friends. It looks as if all of these people are sitting waiting to listen to the classic poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," more commonly known by its first line, " 'Twas the Night Before Christmas."

Christmas is a time to gather with family and friends and to reflect on the goodness of life. For Christians, it is one of the holiest of holidays and a time to remember the birth of Christ. For those who celebrate Christmas, we at Greensboro Daily Photo hope for you that the holiday is everything that you want it to be! Happy Christmas Eve.

Waiting for Christmas

After bringing you a jail scene yesterday, for today we decided to switch to something more festive! First Friday for December is long gone; however, this photo captures the spirit of the holiday and a tender moment for people in Center City Park in downtown Greensboro. Bands were playing, people were snuggled together enjoying the moment. The couple in the front, right corner were dressed in festive garb from head to toe. We don't have a lot to say today other than we hope you are enjoying the spirit of the holiday season. Even if you still have lots of shopping to do, try to find time for friends, loved ones, and spirituality. 

Black Friday in Greensboro

Today is Black Friday. Shopping for Christmas has officially begun, for some as early as three or four am! Specials and bargains abound. The term 'Black Friday' is said to have come into usage in 1966 in Philadelphia and spread to the population at large by 1975. The Merry Christmas snowman in the photo above was spotted in the window of the Saltbox, a fine State Street store for folk art, Colonial lighting, hand poured candles, and more. The Saltbox was established in 1974, about the time the term 'Black Friday' became nationally known, at least with meaning the day retailers began making a profit-- or being in the black.

If you look closely, you can see a Skywatch Friday blue sky peeking through in the upper corners of this window shot. The sky was mostly blocked out by the sleeve of my blazer blocking the glare. Hey Frosty, watch out for doorbusters! The shopping madness has begun! Day-after-Thanksgiving shopping could be another fun activity for the family-- or not!

Veterans Day 2010

November 11th is Veterans Day. It is one of the few holidays in the US, like the Fourth of July, that does not change dates for the convenience of falling on a Monday. The holiday commemorates the anniversary of the ending of World War 1. In 1954, it was expended to celebrate all veterans. Guilford County Schools is closed today so we hope teachers and students are doing something to remember Americans who have served in the Armed Forces. Usually, there is a flag raising by veterans in Friendly Center at 8am on holidays celebrating the military (see our old post here). We like the scene of the above window, not too far from Friendly Center, that hangs one flag for each of the branches of the military.

As language people, we just had to study on the notion of Veterans' Day and Veterans Day. It seems the latter spelling, the attributive, as opposed to the former (the possessive case) is preferred by the US Government (see here). Learn more by looking at the 3 minute video clip put out by the US Department of Veterans (no apostrophe) Affairs (here)

Rosh Hashanah Begins; Ramadan Ends.....Today

Sound the shofar (animal horn) and let Rosh Hashanah begin! Rosh Hoshanah is the first of the High Holy Days and the start of the Jewish New Year. It began at sundown last night and continues through nightfall September 10th. It is a day of rest and a day for Jews to renew their accepting God as King. The sounding of the shofar is, among other things, a call for repentance.  If you want to learn more about Rosh Hashanah and the Jewish community in Greensboro, the Greensboro Jewish Federation is a great place to start.

Also, today is the end of Ramadan, a very important holiday for Muslims. It has been a month of purification, prayer, doing good deeds, and asking for forgiveness.  Imagine going a whole month of Ramadan abstaining from just about EVERYTHING from sunrise to sunset and then feasting at the end of a month of great restraint. If you want to learn more about Ramadan and the Islamic community in Greensboro, The Islamic Center is a great place to start.

Fortunately, public school students in North Carolina can be absent to observe holidays not on the school calendar. Likely, many students will be absent today as Jewish and Muslim families, pray, reflect, celebrate, donate, and promise to make a positive difference in the upcoming year. Hopefully, teachers will take a minute and inform students in attendance why their Jewish and Muslim classmates are absent.

(This horn, photographed above, has been in our family for over 60 years, but we're not 100% sure it qualifies as a shofar. Nobody has ever verified the animal of origin and a shofar should not be from a cow)!
 

Labor Day-- On Holden Road

Thanks to the family on Holden Road, for laboring over each of these plywood letters to bring Labor Day yard art for all of Greensboro to enjoy. Hot dog, hamburger, a few flags, and the words "Labor day" all come together to remind us that today is the last federal holiday of summer. If you want to see this fun decoration for yourself head down Holden Road from Friendly Avenue to the Starmount neighborhood, just across from Starmount Country Club and on the same side of the street as Christ United Methodist Church.

Labor Day, always the first Monday of September, was first celebrated in the U.S. in 1882. Historically, the holiday was celebrated first with a parade to exhibit solidarity and strength of labor organizations and trade unions followed by a festival for workers and their families. North Carolina is a right-to-work state so labor unions are prohibited by law and the holiday does not have the same character as it does in states like West Virginia where, historically, unions have been strong  (read more here).

In North Carolina on Labor Day you will find families spending time at cookouts or returning home from a weekend of fun. Whether your are pro- or anti- union, we hope that you actually got an extra day off and that your weekend was everything you'd hoped for. A little mustard on our hot dog above qualifies us to post of Mellow Yellow Monday, where the beloved primary color (that makes green &  orange possible) reigns supreme. By the way, don't you think "Oh Holden Road"  is as catchy as "On Golden Pond?"