Greensboro Daily Photo

January in Greensboro

It has been said by many a merchant that January is not the best month for retail in Greensboro. Actually, that is the case with the "J" months in general. January is cold and dark, and people are all spent out from Christmas. This January is especially hard given the situation for federal employees. However, June and July are low retail months, too, as so many locals head to the beach. 

The above photo was taken, earlier in the week, in front of Pier 1 Imports in Friendly Center, where leftover holiday merchandise was 70% off. On a bleak January day, it was so heartwarming to see a precious doggie, loved, well cared for, and on THIS side of the window, waiting for his owner to come back outside and join the rest of his family.

These Shoes

Do you ever go to a yard sale or antique mall and find things that make you chuckle? The above photo is the source of one such chuckle. These shoes are currently available at the Antique Marketplace on Burnt Poplar Road, near the I-40/Highway 68 intersection. If memory serves, the price is $55.

The tradition of bronzing household items has been around since the BC era. The American Bronzing Company of Ohio (established 1934) has bronzed over 14 million pairs of baby shoes. The nostalgia factor for parents wanting to preserve their baby’s shoes is understandable. However, seeing a pair of men’s lofers bronzed certainally evokes many questions. Why? Whose were they? If they were so important to bronze in the first place, why are they up for sale now? Who will buy them, and what will they do with them? So curious. How did they end up in an antique store in Greensboro? One thing is certain, these bronzed shoes are not made for walkin’…. 

Create an Impact

"Everything you say and do creates an impact." Such is the slogan on the billboard, visible as you exit the Antique Marketplace on Burnt Poplar Road, at I-40 in Greensboro. It is hard to read the words in the lower right-hand corner to tell what the sign is advertising. They are hard to read even when on foot, not to mention how hard they would be when driving! Regardless, the saying itself is pretty impactful.

Think about it, "Everything you say and do creates an impact." As parents, children, teachers, students, employers, employees, politicians, constituents, everyone; all of us, we are all impactful. This is a great concept to ponder as we leave antique malls, drive along the highway, sit in a room with others, engage in conversation, and share messages on social media. While it isn't clear who sponsored this billboard in Greensboro, it is a great way to start out the new year, being mindful of the impact we are having on others.

The Ice Storm Came

According to Duke Power, in the Greensboro area, about 140,00 households were without power on Sundsy. The roads weren't as bad as anticipated on Sunday, but trees had ice in them, causing some branches to snap off. Most churches were closed and the roads were eerily quiet around town. 

As seen in the above photo taken in the plaza at Battleground and Westridge yesterday, drivers had to navigate around branches in the road. The McDonalds in this plaza had power, but only the drive thru was open. Perhaps it was an issue of staffing. Today, public schools are on a two hour delay. Hopefully, you are safe and sound and your week is off to a great start. In Greensboro, and beyond!

Our Lady of Grace Church School

Our Lady of Grace (OLG) Catholic Church, located at 2201 West Market Street,  looks very different in the front than the back. The front, made of pink granite, was designed to look like a Brooklyn, NY church, Our Lady of Refuge. OLG was built in the early 50s by Julian Price in loving memory of his wife Ethel. The back is a recent edition, looking much more modern.

The first church service was held in 1952 and the first school opened in 1953. Over the years, the school has continued to expand. Today, there are classes for children ages 3-15 with programs that differentiate instruction as needed. Tt the core of instruction is faith, living and learning in a way aligned with Catholicism. The above photo features the Chapman Street side, where classrooms are located. The white and beige building looks fabulous on sunny winter days. Have a fabulous Sunday, even if it the weather is somewhat different from what you see above.

Live Music at Four Saints Brewing in Asheboro

Last night, Greensboro musicians Lisa Dames, Shawn Patch, and Mark Dillon played there for three hours with barely a break. They performed at Four Saints Brewing Company, located in Asheboro, just south of Greensboro. Lisa belted out great country songs ranging from old classics from the 1950s, including Patsy Cline, Ernest Tubb, and Buddy Holly, through the sixties and seventies. The energy and emotion they put in the music was fantastic. Shawn and Mark rounded out the sound with their great musicianship. The performance was well attended, with many people driving down from Greensboro for the performance.

The high energy performance was a great way to kick off the weekend. There are so many great musicians playing locally. If you have a chance to get out and support the local talent, please do so. You won't be disappointed. 

Stay Vocal!

Alex Eaves recently visited Reconsidered Goods and had a pop up stand of his t-shirts. He makes them from used shirts. In some cases, he stamps his message, "Reuse because the planet can't be recycled" in English or Spanish, right over an existing message. He is keeping these t-shirts out of landfills and is getting his message across. 

Alex will return to Greensboro in March, around Earth Day, to do workshops and help others learn to implement  earth-friendly practices. Alex's company is called "Stay Vocal" because he wants to remind people that change comes through hard work and educating people. Stay tuned, we will let you know once plans for the March Earth Day events are solidified. In the meantime, let us know if you are doing anything in Greensboro to help us keep the Green in Greensboro!

Strolling Along South Elm Street

It is always heartwarming to see families taking advantage of the businesses and resources in downtown Greensboro. In the above photo, a mother and her two daughters are walking along South Elm Street, near the Community Theatre of Greensboro. Each has her raincoat, boots,  and knows the "stick together and hold hands rule." They seemed so happy enjoying their afternoon together. Even if your family is grown, or far away, adventures around town are also meaningful with friends. There is so much to see and explore.

In the front, right corner of the photo, you can see a white Christmas tree that had been sent to the curb. There are still some decorations around the community. However, most of Greensboro has put the holidays behind and is bracing for possible inclement weather this weekend. Not to fear. Just hold hands and go forth with joy and determination.