Greensboro Daily Photo

G is for Guttman, Rabbi Fred Guttman

Rabbi Fred Guttman has served as rabbi of Temple Emanuel since 1995, helping the congregation transition from the Fisher Park building to the new building on Jefferson Road in 2002. He has his Rabbinical Ordination and Doctorate of Divinity from Hebrew Union College. Locally, Rabbi Guttman is known for his interfaith activities and efforts to enhance human relations-- interacting with groups from diverse backgrounds. As examples, he has served on the board of the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) and he co-chaired the 40th anniversary celebration of Greensboro's Sit-In Movement, an important event in the history of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) is a phrase often used to describe much of Rabbi Guttman's work. In 2009, he was awarded the prestigious NCCJ Brotherhood/Sisterhood Citation Award (reference).

In addition to all of the significant good work he does locally, nationally, and internationally, Rabbi Guttman stays busy, diligently performing his rabbinical duties at Temple Emanuel. He has conducted Bar and Bat Mitzvah services for over a generation of 13 year olds. The above photo of Rabbi Guttman was taken at Temple Emanuel last month. Today is ABC Wednesday and "G" is for "Guttman." To see GDP's previous entries, click here. To see the ABC Wednesday contributions of other bloggers, go here.

Produce Stand

It is late summer and makeshift produce stands around Greensboro are becoming less frequent. However, this one at the Citgo/Quik Mart on Battleground Avenue near Target is still quite busy. And, the melons and heirloom tomatoes look tasty. About 4:15 yesterday afternoon, a strong thundershower hit Greensboro. We don't know if the vendors at this produce stand had to batten down the hatches; however, all seemed in good order when we drove by just after the storm. The couple in the middle sat down, likely to weather the storm together. To see two people sit a minute and truly enjoy each other's company was a good, grand finale to a busy work day.

If you like these makeshift, roadside produce stands,  here is a link to a directory of pick-your-own farms, roadside farm markets, and farmers markets throughout North Carolina. Eat Wild is another great resource. The first thing we thought about this photo was that it was a "Norman Rockwell moment." As it turns out, that is the name of a business, licensed by the Norman Rockwell Estate, to turn your portraits into "Norman Rockwell Moments." 

Minerva Statue at UNCG

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Minerva, equated with the Greek goddess Athena, was the Roman goddess of poetry, medicine, wisdom, commerce, weaving, crafts, magic and the inventor of music(see here). Minerva is the official seal of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), a fact which is reported on the lengthy Wiki list of institutions of higher education that use Minerva as a logo or seal. Minerva has been featured on the University's diplomas since 1894.  This statue of Minerva, in the above photo, is found on UNCG's campus. It was a 50th anniversary gift from the Class of 1953. James Barnhill, who earned his MFA from UNCG in 1982, sculpted it in 2003. According to a page on the university's website, "Minerva's power and gesturing hand combine grace and power. The upward perspective suggests aspiration and leadership" (reference). 

The approximately 5 ft. tall granite base (peeking out of the bottom of the statue in the photo) has the four names of the university chiseled into it; something that comes in handy for those who seek to be accurate with the University's many names. 1891-- State Normal and Industrial School; 1919-- The North Carolina College for Women; 1932-- The Woman's College of The University of North Carolina; 1963-- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. The Minerva statue, installed on College near Jackson Library and Elliott University Center, is worth visiting if you are ever on campus.

Summer Bounty of Figs

Sundays, we usually post something related to religion. Often the photo is one of a church building, but not always. We didn't start out with this photo of common figs from our yard as a "Sacred Sunday" post; however, the more we read about figs, the more we realized that many religions make references to figs (see here).

Fig trees were one of the first plants cultivated by humans with their fossils dating to 9,000 B.C.  The book of Genesis (Adam and Eve are wearing fig leaves) has one of several references to figs in the Bible-- Old & New Testament. Did you know, the fig is the third tree mentioned in the Bible, after the Tree of Life and Tree of Knowledge?  Buddha achieved enlightenment underneath a fig tree. The Qur'an also references the fig as one of the fruits that descended from paradise. Figs were an important fruit to the Ancient Greeks and Romans.

Figs are a great summer harvest with an extended season for producing fruit. They are high in calcium, fiber, minerals, & antioxidants.  The Middle East and Mediterranean Region are known for fig production, with Turkey and Egypt being the top producers. However, we've had great luck growing figs in Greensboro. Above you see a small part of yesterday's bounty from our two fig trees and yes, they do taste heavenly!

 

Greensboro Aquatic Center

This weekend, the Greensboro Aquatic Center is open for locals to stop in and see this beautiful community resource. Oh how wonderful it is to watch youngsters diving from the 7.5 and 10 meter platforms with such poise and confidence. It is also wonderful to admire this lovely facility and realize it is right here in in our own backyard to be enjoyed by EVERYBODY! 

Field of Dreams said it best. "Build it and they will come." Swimming, diving, water polo, scuba diving, synchronized swimming...... lessons and events...........spectators......swim teams.......national competitions.....a 79,000 square foot facility with nearly a million  gallons of water. While many people in Greensboro were stunned at the fact that the city was spending $19 million on a swim facility in these financially austere times, the positive economic impact from the currently-booked events is already double the cost. Water event planners come here and see this spotless facility with crystal clear water, plenty of space for spectators, a nice deck, grand dive platforms, and they can't wait to sign on the dotted line. Water time is selling fast.  Yesterday, we ran into Jay Dodson and his Star Aquatics team as they are involved in the opening events (read here). The Greensboro Aquatic Center will serve our community for a very long time.

The white ceiling supports reflected in the water, among other reflections, have us participating in Weekend Reflection.

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.

First Day of School

Summer vacation has ended. In Guilford County, North Carolina, today is the first day of school.By the time you see this photo, likely, those Spanish textbooks will have been distributed and seats will have been assigned to students eager to start on the path to becoming bilingual. "Aquí, se habla español," says the enthusiastic Spanish teacher........ and the journey begins. This seating arrangement enables students to work on their interpersonal communication skills. 

Teachers have this unbelievable way of making scarce resources go a very LONG way. If you are in a position to donate to a classroom, we suggest Donors Choose which is an online charity connecting you to classrooms in need. This week alone, close to 6,000 people have donated worldwide. Of course we hope you select a Guilford County teacher to help with your tax-deductible donation! If you aren't in a position to donate, thank a school employee with kind words or a card. Look up one of your (former) favorite teachers on a social network site and thank him/her. Here's to a great 2011-2012 school year. Hasta mañana.

F is for Ferrell Brothers, Rick and Wes

Today we take you out to the ball game with the Ferrell brothers, Rick and Wes. On the east wall of Greensboro's downtown baseball stadium, you will see this bronze plaque dedicated to these celebrated major league baseball player/brothers with ties to Greensboro. Born in Durham in 1905, Rick was one of seven brothers. He attended Guilford College where he played baseball (and basketball) and went on to be a major league catcher from 1929-1947. Rick, a hall of fame catcher, was one of the best hitting catchers in the American league.

Brother Wes, born in Greensboro in 1908, was known as one of the major league's best hitting pitchers. At age 19, he entered the major leagues where he played from 1927-1941. In his book, The Ferrell Brothers of Baseball, Dick Thompson says that Wes was,"as talented as anyone who ever set foot on a baseball diamond and as good as any pitcher who ever threw a ball" (reference). Another great piece of baseball trivia is the fact that Rick and Wes were sibling batterymates* for five seasons.

We wish more information were available on the Internet about the Ferrell family. Where did all of those boys practice baseball growing up? Where did they go to school K-12? Since Wes was born in Greensboro and Rick went to college here, their ties to the local community are significant and they bring Greensboro considerable recognition as players during the golden era of baseball. With America going through the Great Depression, the Ferrell brothers brought the world a much-needed bit of distraction from the financial woes of the day.  Were there any of the brothers who didn't play baseball?We do know that their other brother George, a minor league player, had a long and tremendous career in the sport. 

The more we look around for people who have made an impact on Greensboro for the ABC Wednesday meme, the more we realize that often, Greensboro heroes come in pairs. Today is ABC Wednesday and "F" is for Ferrell brothers, Rick and Wes. See previous entries here.

*pitcher/catcher teams

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.

Children's Museum: Lindsay Street Mural

"What would make Greensboro a healthy city?" paints the little boy on the wall on the Lindsay Street side of the edible school yard at the Greensboro Children's Museum. As fast as the boy on the left can paint the question, in Wordle format, the boy in the middle paints cloud-like responses: people, living wages, acceptance, water, accessibility, heart, play....... 

This wall began with a series of curbside conversations when people passing by were asked "What would make Greensboro a healthy city?"  Muralist Kathleen Kennedy translated the common themes that emerged from the public responses into a 40-ft. mural. Judy Baca's "Great Wall of Los Angeles" inspired this project. (reference). Close to forty people contributed between $10-$100 to surpass the $2,000 funding needs to make this wall a reality. This is a great example of people coming together to make something wonderful for our city.

 Downtown Greensboro is starting to get some great, painted walls (here, here, here,and here). If you like public murals, you will not regret taking the time to visit those four "here" click-throughs! If you get a chance, head to the Children's Museum to see the wall for yourself. We were only able to fit about 1/3 of it in this photo. It continues for several more feet!

Greensboro Atheist Organization on Yanceyville Street

The Adopt-A-Highway Program  (AAH) was established in 1988 as a way for the North Carolina Department of Transportation and community volunteers to work together to keep highways litter free. According to their website, the twenty-three year program currently has 6,000 AAH groups. Those with twenty consecutive years of service were awarded two metal stars to add to their signs. The two Guilford County groups recognized for twenty years are Vulcan Materials Company Northeast McLeansville 4-H Club (we're betting Ms. Ivey is involved with the latter).

The Greensboro Atheist Organization (GAO) maintains Yanceyville Street. While the organization does not fall into the 10, 15, or 20 year longevity range for maintaining their street, they have been diligent about picking up trash along this long road in Greensboro that toggles between the rural, old-time world of Guilford County and the 21st century expanding of the suburbs. Yanceyville begins near NC A&T just east of downtown Greensboro and continues all the way to Highway 150 getting close to Brown Summit. We're not sure how much of this long road is maintained by GAO; however, we imagine that the GAO is kept quite busy keeping this road litter-free. We decided to use this photo today because yesterday, The News & Record had an article about the North Carolina atheists announcing their convention in North Carolina scheduled November 11-13, along with the South Carolina atheists, at Carolina Beach. 

Wyndham Championship & Golf in Greensboro

Greensboro is abuzz about golf this week. Today is the Round 3 Tournament Play of the Wyndham Championship. At 6p.m. tomorrow, we'll know who takes the Sam Snead Cup and prize money. Sam Snead won the Greater Greensboro Open (GGO), the precursor to the Wyndham,in 1938, the year it began. He won the GGO a total of eight times, his last time being in 1965 at the age of almost 53 years. His record still stands today as having won the most times and having been the oldest to win. With these records as well as his commitment to the event and the sport, it is easy to see why the winner will be awarded the Sam Snead Cup. It was said that when Sam Snead hit the ball, "(i)t sounded like a rifle and the ball flew like a bullet" (reference). Mr. Snead died in 2002, four days short of his 90th birthday.

If you are interested in following the results of this week's PGA event, the Wyndham posts the leaderboard here. Tommy Gainey started the day Saturday in the lead position. The event combines several social events and and the Wyndham is donating 100,000 toward a charity that focuses on helping children. We have to disclose that the above photo was taken at the Greensboro Country Club earlier this week as we weren't confident that we could get into the Wyndham with a camera (without a press pass). 

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."

Dog Days of Summer

 

Dog Days are "the hottest, most sultry days of summer." They refer to a time period that is hot, the air is stagnant, and it can be "marked by dull lack of progress."  Humans tend to sit around "dog-tired" hoping for rain. Some believe that wounds heal more slowly at this time. Dog Days are named for Sirus, the Dog Star because the Romans believed that Sirus' close proximity to the sun was the cause of this oppressive weather event (Wiki).  "The Romans sacrificed a brown dog at the beginning of dog days to appease the rage of Sirus" (Wiki).

Climate and latitude influence when Dog Days take place in a given community. In the Southeast, they have been going strong since July-- maybe letting up a little the past day or two.  August 16th also happens to be the Feast Day of Saint Roch, the patron saint of dogs. So, today is a DOUBLE dog day for us! We couldn't resist the opportunity to share this photo of two canines resting beside their respective owners in the Greensboro Arboretum. The brown dog at the right is thinking....... "I hope there aren't any ancient Romans in Greensboro!" The gray one, as vigilant as the gander who holds his head high guarding the flock, says, "don't worry, man, I got ya covered."  Neither is aware that 34 years ago today (8/16/77) Elvis Presley died.

Have the dog days of summer affected you at all? Are you looking forward to Indian summer?

Industries of the Blind, Inc.

Seven out of ten working age Americans who are blind are not employed (reference). Greensboro has the distinction of having established the first work program in North Carolina for people who were blind. In 1933, the Guilford County Association of the Blind hired six employees to make mops for commercial sale. With the Wagner-O'Day Act in 1938, people with severe vision disabilities had a Federal market for the products they manufactured. Responding to this opportunity, in 1938, Greensboro's organization incorporated, becoming Industries of the Blind, Incorporated (IOB). During World War II, Greensboro's IOB employed 35 workers. By 1962, they landed their first million dollar contract. For over seven decades, Greensboro's IOB has been working hard "to enhance the opportunities for people who are blind to achieve greater vocational, personal, and economic independence" (reference). 

Today, Greensboro's IOB has 238 employees in two locations and, with their government military contracts, annual revenue has soared to 20 million dollars (News & Record, 2009).  Their products for sale include physical fitness pants for soldiers, ballistic nape pads, industrial brooms, household products, pens & refills. Our personal favorites are the 24 lb. mill broom (harkening back to the days of Greensboro's thriving textile mills) and the Sedgefield parlor broom. With the PGA Tours Wyndham Championship 2011 kicking off today at the Sedgefield Country Club, we hope that Sedgefield parlor brooms are put to good use in their namesake community during this great golf event.

The IOB brick building in the photo above is located on West Lee Street near UNCG. We took the photo at night, with glaring lights, fading letters, minimal color, and blurred periphery to provide insight into what the world looks like to many visually impaired. Hats off to IOB for providing their employees with competitive wages and benefits.

Grace Temple COGIC

Grace Temple COGIC is located on the corner of Oxford and Britton Streets near MLK Drive. The spicy orange building with white trim and surrounding greenery looks as much like a building on a Caribbean island nation as it does one near downtown Greensboro. However, it is, indeed, a house of worship thriving right here in Greensboro. 

Sunday services are at 11 am with Pastor/Founder Elder Gene A. Taylor officiating. The quote on the temple's sign reads, "I'll let Hell have no Peace while I live." Do you know what COGIC stands for? Church of God in Christ......... it is a Pentecostal Holiness Christian Denomination. The religion has approximately 12,000 congregations and approximately 5,000,000 members. The religion was formed in 1897 and has its roots in the Baptist faith. Learn more about the COGIC religion here. See another Greensboro's Wells Memorial COGIC, with its dramatically different architecture,  here. Finally, if you are interested, see more of our religious-themed posts here. 

Center City Resource Team

If any wrong-doings happened in downtown Greensboro last night, it was not because we lacked police patrolling the area. In the above photo, six policemen on bicycles, who are part of the Center City Resource Team, were congregating in the city parking lot between Design Archives and Bin 33 Restaurant. Two minutes earlier, they had been riding up Elm Street in formation.  Additionally several members of the foot patrol were in Center City Park around its closing time.

With over 20,000 people in the community having  the right to carry a concealed weapon (or with a permit in process) and additional people who have guns illegally, these policemen risk their lives with each turn of a bike pedal. They do so much for our community and make a genuine effort to build rapport with the people who frequent their beat. Property owners in the downtown area pay an assessment to get extra services ranging from additional police to getting hanging baskets watered and having extra garbage pick up. So, if you are downtown, don't assume there is a problem, just because you see a mini-brigade of police.

NC Carnivorous Plants & U Haul

We've finally found a U Haul that advertises North Carolina. The "Venture Across America" series by U Haul is brilliant-- combining fun facts and great graphic design with an otherwise boring Point A to Point B venture. The top statement reads "Carnivores of the green swamp preserve." At the bottom, it reads, "Did you know.... The endangered Venus Fly Trap and Pitcher Plant feed on small insects for survival. How does this reversal in the food chain work? Learn more about carnivorous plants...."

Carnivorous plants have adapted to eat insects because their host soil is thin and poor in nutrients. Due to plant poachers, carnivorous plants are threatened worldwide. Carnivorous plants don't grow in Greensboro; in our state, they only grow within a 60 mile radius of Wilmington.This costal city is a great habitat for carnivorous plants (see many examples here). North Carolina children love to study them, especially in the North Carolina social studies years (4th and 8th grade).

By the way, this U Haul is available for rent at Quality Food Mart at the corner of Battleground and North Elam. Have a great weekend and try to spend a few minutes looking at other Skywatch Friday posts! If you want some carnivorous plant fun, watch the 1960 or 1986 version of the movie, Little Shop of Horrors.

 

Weir-Jordan House

The Weir-Jordan House, located at 223 North Edgeworth Street, was built in 1846. According to their website, the house is believed to be one of the ten original homes built in downtown Greensboro. The house is built in the two-story, traditional, double-pile style. The home was first owned by Dr. David Weir, President of the Edgeworth Female Academy, and then by John F. Jordan who was in the tobacco business. Mr. Weir went on to found the first insurance company in Greensboro and Mr. Jordan was a local sheriff and eventually served as Director of the Chamber of Commerce.

Presently, the Greensboro Woman's Club meets at the Weir-Jordan House. They have owned it since 1921. Additionally, it is available for catering events and civic organizations can arrange to hold meetings there. While the home has undergone renovations and a few modifications, it still retains its yesteryear charm. It is believed to have been designed by Alexander Jackson Davis, the architect who planned the State Capitol in Raleigh as well as the Blandwood Mansion in Greensboro. Since 1984, the house has been on the national register of historic places. It is one of those places that is easy to drive by and not notice; however, this house is worth noticing. 

D is for Dillard, Stark Spotswood Dillard

Stark Spotswood Dillard was born in 1894 in Lynchburg, Virginia. His father died when he was three, leaving his mother to raise 12 children alone. At the age of 11, Mr. Dillard began his career folding boxes in his hometown.  Soon, the young Dillard transitioned to sales and eventually, was able to open a paper company. In 1926, the entreprenueral Mr. Dillard moved to Greensboro and founded Dillard Paper Company which, by the time he died in 1975, evolved into one of the largest distribution companies in the world. Perhaps you remember their retail store and company motto, "If It's Paper...."  Mr. Dillard's recipe for success was 1) having a competitive spirt; 2) believing employees worked hardest when they received incentive compensation and had opportunities for promotion; 3) leading by example; 4) adapting to the ever-changing business environment; 5) providing creative solutions for customers, suppliers, and the company; and, above all, 6) treating everyone fairly. As an example of the positive approach to running the business, Dillard Paper Company held "D Month" sales contests in May, historically the company's slowest month. The person with the greatest percentage increase over his/her personal quota in the month won the Stark S. Dillard Trophy. Cash and merchandise awards were provided for employees. May went from being the slowest month to the most profitable.

Recently, we had the pleasure of an impromptu tour of Mr. Dillard's corner office, featured above, at what is now the massive International Paper/Xpedx complex at 3900 Spring Garden Street. We met with Lisa Moser, who began her career working in the mailroom and worked her way up to office manager. In that capacity, she fielded our questions about "the Dillard Era" and remembering fondly "D Month." Also, one of her favorite memories of Mr. Dillard was the fact that he knew everybody's name and addressed all employes by name, regardless of whether they sorted mail, cleaned the building, or negotiated contracts. Were Mr. Dillard still living today, he would be beaming at Mrs. Moser's efficiency, personability, and pride in her company. She keeps Mr. Dillard's office organized and holds on to a company history just in case someone comes along looking for someone who remembers..... 

Right now, the world could use an infusion of Mr. Dillards.... and Mrs. Mosers! Read more about Mr. Dillard and watch a short video clip here. This round of ABC Wednesday, we are featuring A-Z citizens who have contributed to Greensboro. Today is ABC Wednesday and "D" is for Dillard. (see previous entries, including our A-Z streets series, here).

                                         

 

 

Summer is Winding Down

For the children of Guilford County, summer is quickly winding down. Classes begin on Thursday, August 25th and from that point on, it will be 180 days of academic rigor. We've already had our tax free weekend for buying back-to-school clothes and other necessities. Children are trying hard to save their shoes and new outfits for those first days. Students are scrambling to finish their summer reading lists. If you have European History this fall, you are learning that Portugal is next to Spain is next to France is next to Germany is next to Poland... the Genesis of map skills. We encourage all to take a few days and commit to some unadulterated summer fun. Follow the lead of the children above and hula hoop, twirl ribbons, and run aimlessly squealing in delight. 

The above photo was taken back at the Summer Solstice Event in the Greensboro Arboretum. Before you know it, this very spot will be hosting girl scouts setting up for their December Candlefest. Enjoy what is left of summer. You won't regret it! If you have suggestions for family fun in Greensboro over the next couple of weeks, leave your ideas in the comment section.

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!

The Muslim Community of Greensboro

Greensboro has a diverse population of Muslims who balance living and working in an integrated community with having places to worship, socialize, and educate their children into their belief system. Yesterday's story hour at the International Civil Rights Museum featured the reading of A Party in Ramadan a book about Leena, a Muslim girl, who is so excited to be at a birthday party. However, Leena has to decide whether or not she will eat birthday cake since it is Ramadan and she is expected to fast. If you missed the reading, perhaps you can find a copy of Asma Mobin-Uddin's book at the museum or a local library. The Muslim children of Greensboro confront dilemmas like Leena's on a daily basis. 

The local Muslim community is more pervasive than many realize. According to the Islamic Center's website, in Greensboro, Muslims outnumber Methodists (reference). The Islamic Center of Greensboro is open every day for five daily prayers and, according to their website, is happy to speak to groups about Islam. Also offering prayers is the Islamic Center on Martin Luther King Drive. There is an Islamic Academy on 16th Street and an Islamic daycare on East Market Street. As a final resting place, there is a 30-acre Muslim cemetery affiliated with the Islamic Center of High Point.

The woman in the photo above, self-identifying as a Muslim by her attire, was eager to take photos at Greensboro's Fourth of July parade. Follow the link to learn the rich meaning behind these articles of clothing that veil her body from view. If you are new to GDP, see our other posts related to religion and spirituality here.

Center City Park-- Singing in the Rain

Technically, these youngsters are not singing in the rain, but running around the fountain at Center City Park in downtown Greensboro. This water feature is found on the Davie Street side of the park. The fountains are part of a design that mimics the stream beds of our Piedmont region. This fountain and park's water stairs, with their change in elevation, entertain young and old alike-- especially on dry, hot days. In addiiton to the fountains, the park's pergola and 200+ trees contribute significantly to providing a way to cool off on these dog days of August.

So much thought and planning went into the design of this 1.9 acre park. It opened in December 2006 after four years of careful planning with considerable input from stakeholders. The result is this public lawn that was constructed to have the feel of different rooms, each with a distinct purpose. Also, the park is designed so that each side and corner looks like an extension of the buildings near it. Enjoy another view here and here. If you are local, you owe it to yourself to read this article about downtown's most-used gathering spot. If you are local, you REALLY owe it to yourself to head to the park and create these little Norman Rockwell moments with your friends and family.

Take Us Out To the Ball Game

The Greensboro Grasshoppers are out of town this weekend leaving us with a BEAUTIFUL, but empty, stadium. It has been six years since this stadium opened its doors on April 3, 2005. Time flies when you are playing ball. Seating capacity in New Bridge Bank Park stadium is 7,499; however, with all of the picnic and grassy berm areas, more people can fit, if needed. The opening day crowd was 8,540. Greensboro loves its minor-league baseball. 

This scene, outside the entrance gate on the Bellemeade Street side, would be perfect for a photo shoot with the little baseball players in your life. To small children, these larger-than-life baseballs feel like the scene in Gulliver's Travels where Gulliver lands in Brobdingnag, the land of big people.

Here is the Grasshoppers' schedule. They'll be back in town next week. What a great way to wind down your summer and have some good, AFFORDABLE family fun!. Today, we're pitching this photo over at Skywatch Friday where hundreds of people worldwide share a view of the sky above their town.

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.

C is for Cone, Ceasar Cone II

Prominent Greensboro businessman and philanthropist Ceasar Cone II was born into the textile industry by virtue of the fact that his father was co-founder of Cone Mills. Ceasar Cone II was president and chairman of Cone Mills from 1956- 1973. In that position, he carried on the Cone family's tradition of making his sure mill workers had a good quality of life. Like his father, Mr. Cone II was known for his generosity to the Greensboro community and to valuing the inherent worth and dignity of all people. As one example, in 1939-- well before the Civil Rights Movement, Mr. Cone II donated $50,000 towards building Greensboro's first YMCA for African-American citizens. He named the facility the Hayes-Taylor YMCA to honor his cook, Ms. Sallie Hayes and his butler, Mr. Andrew Taylor (reference). That branch of the Y continues to thrive in East Greensboro today.

Mr. Cone II cast the philanthropy net far and wide throughout his life. In addition to the Y, another example is his contributing to the Elliot University Student Center at UNCG in the early 1940's. In the last year of his life, in 1986, Ceasar Cone II and his wife Martha established the Cemala Foundation "to continue the family tradition of commitment to enhancing the quality of life of the community through grants to qualified charitable organizations" (reference). Infusing meaning in nearly everything they did, the Cones named the foundation for the first two letters of the first names of their children: CE-asar, MA-rtha, and LA-wrence. The above photo of the portraits of Ceasar Cone II and his wife Martha was taken in the board/conference room of the Cemala Foundation. The building in which Cemala is housed (330 South Greene Street) is important in its own right. It is where his father and uncle opened Cone Export and Commissions, the precursor to Cone Mills.

Today is ABC Wednesday and "C" is for "Cone," Ceasar II (and Martha) Cone. See previous alphabet days here.

Tea Time at the O. Henry Hotel

The O. Henry Hotel, located at 624 Green Valley Road, makes an effort to evoke an era when hotels were much more community centered.  Tea time at the O. Henry Hotel is summer afternoon perfect for locals and visitors alike! Beyond this revolving door is a room full of old-world charm... a social lobby with warm paneled walls, oil paintings, upholstered chairs, cordial attentive staff, and china fit for royalty. Each afternoon from 2-5pm, people stop in for tea and a bite to eat. Is tea at the O. Henry considered "high" or "low" tea? The distinction between high and low tea usually is determined by whether the event is served around "low" coffee tables or "high" dinner tables. Also, the former tends to be served in the 5-7 pm time slot and the latter from 2-5 pm. In the USA, it is not uncommon to center the distinction around level of social formality (reference). 

At the O.Henry, one can enjoy something as simple at tea and scones with clotted cream or as filling as truffled egg salad on brioche and a ham and brie croissant with fig preserves. From $7- $22, there is a price point for most budgets. If you are looking for something to buy the friend who has EVERYTHING, consider the gift of afternoon tea.  And remember, tea, high or low, tastes better with a big splash of friendship.

 

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!