Greensboro Daily Photo

Guilford Park Presbyterian Church on Easter

The above photo is of the center courtyard of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church. It leads to the Columbarium. It reminded us so much of the Easter season: The three arches evoke the idea of trinity and of the three who died on the cross. The columbarium, is filled with sealed niches with stored funeral urns. Even in death, for Christians, there is the belief of an afterlife. The trees are starting to leaf out, another sign of the circle of life.

Guilford Park Presbyterian Church's first building was completed in 1947, and is an off-shoot of Buffalo Presbyterian Church. It is located in Kirkwood, on Fairfield, just off of Lawndale Drive. Guilford Park Presbyterian has a very robust history documented online. We are archivists at heart and cannot recommend the importance of documenting history of families, institutions, towns, etc. It is hard to retrieve information once the people with the stories and information are gone.  We hope the folks at Guilford Park Presbyterian have a Happy Easter. We're wondering if they will hold a service under the tree across the street, the one where the early members of the church first gathered to worship even before they were formally a congregation.

Happy Easter!

2306 Lawndale in Kirkwood is Ready for Easter!

Today would be a glorious day for an Easter egg hunt, as tomorrow is Easter. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to walk around the edge of Kirkwood on Lawndale near Cornwalis. This section  of the neighborhood has such a unique personality- a little bit hip and a little bit hippy. There is one of Kirkwood's two remaining Lustron homes.*  There are owners with vintage cars parked on the street, there is a house with an inflated unicorn, there is the palm reader. The above lawn at 2306 Lawndale is  decorated for Easter with two dogs guarding the pot. 

As we zip by this cluster of homes on Lawndale by car, we don't see it as a neighborhood. However, when we walked it this past week, we started seeing all of the things that make it a neighborhood. We were greeted by Great Danes guarding their yard, we noticed lots of storage sheds, we saw flowers and trees starting to bloom. There were people at Guilford Presbyterian Church getting ready for Easter. We looked up and a giant pink flamingo was staring at us. There were others walking. Someone was out for a run. We noticed a small park with a giant tree that reminds of the Angel Oak in Charleston, SC. Just like the Angel Oak, it is not permitted to climb the tree. Before we knew it, we were back at our car. Walking our many neighborhoods is a fun way to get to know Greensboro. May the Easter bunny deliver a basket of goodness to 2306 Lawndale, and to you too! Please stop back tomorrow.

Happy Saturday!

*See our post on the Lustron on Lawndale  from 15 years ago. 

Garrison Keillor Returns to the Carolina Theatre

Last night, Garrison Keillor- of Prairie Home Companion and NPR fame-  made his fourth visit to the Carolina Theatre in Greensboro. For an hour and a half he provided non-stop entertainment which included a lot of singing, often including the audience.  With a recurring theme of aging, he talked about how the age 60+  audience knew songs from memory and with a shared repertoire, whereas younger generations now rely on using their phones for lyrics in lieu of memorizing information. Much of his performance centered on reminiscing on his 50 year career and what the view from age 81 looks like. 

We last saw Garrison Keillor at the Carolina Theatre eight years ago, in 2016 (see HERE). While visibly older and thinner,  with a softer voice, he still has his quick wit, clear memory, and his ability to transport listeners with a good story. He is still standard attire- a nice suit with a red tie, red tennis shoes, and red crew socks. It was a lovely evening, and a bittersweet unspoken thought that he won't likely have another eight years to return for a 5th time. We were also informed by Carolina Theatre Executive Director Brian Gray, that Benjie Cone, also 81, died this week. His wife Betty spearheaded the multi-million dollar renovation of the Carolina Theatre, and Betty is the very reason the venue still exists. Benjie was always at her side, helping as needed. We are grateful for the Cones, for the Carolina Theatre, and for the opportunity to live in a community that attracts performances like that of Garrison Keillor. There are so many reasons to be thankful.

Happy Friday!

 

Dogwood are Blooming

Dogwoods are starting to bloom in Greensboro. They are a harbinger of spring. The above tree is located in a yard in Hamilton Lakes, at 704 Lipscomb Road. This house sold in August 2023 with the owners inheriting this lovely dogwood. Dogwoods are a favorite in Greensboro, right up there with azaleas. There is a Dogwood Drive in Hamilton Lakes that extends arcs over Holden Road, almost extending to Friendly Avenue on both ends.  There is a 4.2 acre Dogwood Park located in Irving Park, between Sunset Drive and Meadowbrook Terrace. Native Americans made medicinal tea from dogwood bark.  Dogwoods were also a favorite of President Washington and President Jefferson. Are there dogwoods in your neighborhood? Have they started blooming?  

On another note, Garrison Keeler or National Public Radio fame will be in Greensboro at the Carolina Theatre tonight. He hails from St. Paul Minnesota. Today, in St. Paul, the temperature should rise to 33, just over freezing.  They grow well in Minnesota, but we're betting they won't bloom for at least another month If someone reading this is driving him around town, please show him some of Greensboro's  lovely yards.

Happy Thursday!

Tina

The Tina Turner Musical is in town at the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. If opening night was any indication, performances will be nearly sold out, if not completely sold out. It tells of how Tina overcame so many obstacles to rise to the top. All of the acting, singing, and dancing is strong. Ari Groover is a fabulous Tina Turner. Symphony King played young Tina Turner and wowed the audience with her voice and charisma. Ari and Symphony are both performers with amazing careers ahead of them. The above photo features the curtain at Tanger and the people with seats in front of the front row. The live orchestra was actually on stage during the performance, so the orchestra seats are available. 

In addition to good singing and dancing, Tina's backstory let the audience get to know who Tina was not only on stage, but also who she was as a person. Greensboro is so lucky to have Tanger and to be able to see top quality shows without needing to drive elsewhere. Try to see "Tina" is you can. Also, next season's Broadway line up at Tanger has just been announced: Back to the Future; MJ, the Michael Jackson Story; Hamilton; Some like it Hot; Mamma Mia; The Neil Diamond Musical A Beautiful Noise; and Juliette.

Happy Wednesday!

1902 Madison Ave in Sunset Hills

This single family home in Sunset Hills was built in 1932. It has so many features that anchor it in this part of North Carolina. First the stone exterior looks like it may be Mt. Airy granite. Then there is the stonemasonry. We're wondering if it is was built by stonemason Andrew Leopold Schlosser. He would have been working in Greensboro during the time this house was built. Also, the green roof tiles are possibly Pomona Terra Cotta Manufacturing Company, with a factory down the road, just off of West Market Street. Finally,  that cozy front porch exudes southern hospitality.

This home got new owners last year and, based on the NC State flag on the front porch, we conclude they are North Carolina State fans. If you live in Greensboro, or North Carolina in general, you know what a basketball state we are.  The NC State Basketball Teams, men's and women's are advancing to the Sweet 16. We're betting there will be some neighborhood parties in this house if NC State continues to advance. The Sunset Hills neighborhood is known for celebrating together. But during basketball season, even the friendliest of neighbors get a little competitive.

Happy Tuesday! 

Apples at the Base of UNCG's Minerva Statue

Recently, when we were on the campus of UNCG, we saw all of the apples with bites out of them. The tradition goes that if the apples, with a bite out, are left at the base of this Minerva statue, they will do well on exams. We imagine the apples have been there since the mid-term period as the apples have some age on them. As you can see in the photo, the sculptor is James Barnhill who earned an MFA from UNCG in 1982. The Minerva statue was a gift of the class of 1953  in 2003 for the 50th anniversary of their graduation. Here is a photo of Minerva from this time last year, so you can see the full statue. Minerva is the goddess of wisdom, justice, law, victory, and the sponsor of arts, trade, and strategy; and the patron of strategic war. (It sounds like she might have been an overachiever). Do you see the little bird on the left? He was joyfully pecking the flesh of one of the apples.

These college traditions and lore of things around campus, make good memories and are part of building community in higher education.  Students graduate from an institution knowing these special traditions. In addition to placing apples at the base of Minerva, there is a rock that gets painted (known as the Rawk), a superstition to not walk under the clock tower, and the tradition of wearing blue and gold (school colors) on Friday. What traditions did your schools have?

College Park Baptist Church

A few days ago, we were walking along Josephine Boyd Street at Walker Avenue and noticed how beautiful this redbud tree looked in front of the College Park Baptist Church. This sanctuary was built and dedicated in 1952. The church has a rich history, holding its first organizational meeting in 1906. Given their close proximity to UNCG (then the State Normal School for Women) there has been great appeal to college students.

College Park is a LGBTQ-friendly church and, since 1999, has not been a member of the Southern Baptist Convention. They are now affiliated  with American Baptist Churches, USA. College Park was the first church in Greensboro to have an ordained woman minister, further evidence of the liberal leanings of this congregation.*  It is a beautiful church and if you are looking for a liberal, welcoming congregation, this just may be the spiritual home for you.

Happy Palm Sunday!

* reference and more information HERE.

On the EUC Lawn at UNCG

Thursday was a lovely afternoon in Greensboro. After we left the book talk on the UNCG campus, we walked across the lawn of the student union. It was nice seeing all of these UNCG students spending time together, relaxing and socializing. This is the picture of the best of college life when students have the opportunity to meet in person. The building in the background really frames the photo. It is the tower, or stacks, added on to Jackson Library in the 1970's. The nine-story tower is quite a landmark on campus.

Just under 18,000 students enrolled at UNCG this fall. Thirty six percent of students live on campus. Let's hope that even those who don't live on campus have an opportunity to enjoy some of the campus activities- planned and impromptu. Even though it is going to be a rainy day today, there are still plenty of things to do on a college campus, and we have four of them in Greensboro.

Happy Saturday!

Robert Linville's PRECISION GOLF SCHOOL

Robert Linville has been a golf instructor for over 35 years. He is nationally recognized and respected as one of the top instructors. As a golfer, his roots run deep in Greensboro. In 1976- 1980, he was an All-American at Guilford College. He co-founded Precision Golf School, with Rodney Morrow, in 1989. At first, it was located in a strip-mall off of Friendly Avenue. The school now has five locations, and the one above is at Bur-Mil Park.* Bur-Mil Park is a great place to learn to golf, not only because of the instruction available there, but also because there is a driving range. They also have an 18-hole golf course.

Mr. Linville was also co-head pro at Forest Oaks Country club and he coached the Greensboro College Pride to much recognition, several seasons as top finishers, and an NCAA Division III Championship in 2000. In the above photo, both the man instructing (facing the camera) and his student were concentrating on the lesson, as we looked on. The view from behind the camera was filled with people hitting buckets of balls practicing their teeing off. Greensboro is a fantastic golf city with green fees at all price points. If you want to get back into golf, Bur-Mil is open to the public and does not disappoint.

Happy Thursday!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

Luxe Soulfood & Cocktails

Luxe Soulfood and Cocktails is located at 403 North Elm Street in the building where Ganache was located for years. Luxe opened in October of 2020, which was about a year before Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. Luxe is one of the places contributing to the "Uptown" section of Greensboro and, specifically, North Elm Street. Here is a copy of the Soulfood Sunday brunch menu. While the meats look tasty, it is the sides that make Luxe a standout for good, home-cooked food. Mac and cheese, yams, potato salad, collards, cabbage, rice and gravy and more are examples of the offerings. Over the last three and a half years, Luxe has worked hard to maintain their upscale vibe, to the extent that they have a strict dress code. The Luxe family works hard to keep their customers satisfied.

On the day we walked by, there was a glare from the sun. It was that teal Polaris Slingshot, parked out in front, that caught our eye. We haven't had a chance to eat there yet, but after looking at that menu, we plan to try to get in soon.  We love a good brunch, but Sunday brunch looks quite crowded. It is heartwarming to see these Covid/post-Covid businesses that appear to be thriving. Their hours are Tuesday-Thursday from 11:30a.m.- 5:00 p.m; Friday from 11:30 a.m.= 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon- 7:00 pm. So it is not (yet) a late-night eatery.

Happy Wednesday!

Happy Spring!

Spring is officially here. It is the season for Easter, which is early this year (March 31)  and Passover (April 22-30). However, Orthodox Easter is late- not until May 5th. Ramadan is happening now, but is not always a spring holiday. In Greensboro, spring is truly brings rebirth of the landscape with the greening of lawns and leafing out of trees and shrubs. It is a time to plant and celebrate nature. The above photo features a cluster of hyacinth in our yard. While not native to Greensboro, the bulbous, spring-blooming perennial does well here. We don't even take up our bulbs and they always return mid March, and their scent is heavenly. 

If you are looking for plants, the local farmers markets are a good start. When you buy locally, you help the local economy and you enter into a relationship with a grower who will probably be available to answer your gardening questions. The master gardeners will be set up to sell on April 14th at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market and will hold their annual plant sale at the NC Cooperative Extension Guilford County Center at 3309 Burlington Road on May 3rd and 4th. This is the weekend before Mothers Day and, even if you don't have a green thumb, you can probably keep a plant alive for a week to give to mom!

Happy Tuesday!

Springtime is Upon Us

Yesterday was such a lovely day in Greensboro. The sun was shining, but it wasn't too warm. The above photo is a scene in northwest Greensboro, along Carlson Dairy Road. You can see the grass is that early spring green, the skies were blue and the white blossoms were at peak, already starting to flutter to the ground. If you want to see the early stages of nature, you need to be driving around neighborhoods right now. Also, this past weekend, people were commenting that the reenactment of the Revolutionary War brought out lots of people. The warm weather helped boost attendance of people reenacting and spectators. What a way to get as close to history 200+ years ago. It was also St. Patrick's Day, but that usually results in not only green clothing but lots of green beverages.

If you want to keep up with what is blooming when, and you don't have a master gardener in your life, see this bloom calendar from the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. Tomorrow is the first official day of spring.

Happy Monday! Happy Last Day of Winter!

 

The Battle of Guilford Courthouse

In Greensboro, this is the weekend of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, at least the reenactment. The original battle happened on March 15, 1781, but the above scene is what you will see if you head out this weekend- today or tomorrow. So head out to Country Park and see people reenacting, preparing food, talking about life if the 1800's, taking care of their horses, going down to the river to pray, and doing just about anything period-appropriate that you can imagine To be sure , they will not be using their cell phones, they will be present in the moment Greensboro is so lucky to have an event that attracts people from all over the country to come here and experience what life would have been like almost 250 years ago.

The weather should be nice today, between 50º- 70º and it shouldn't be raining. If you have never seen the reenactment battles, you owe it to yourself to go and do so. Remember, the red coats are the British. 

Happy Saturday!

Along Elm Street

We absolutely love street scenes of downtown Greensboro and this view of the 100 block of South Elm Street puts us in such a great mood. As you can tell by the clothing, weather has been warming in Greensboro. Nights are cold and afternoons are warm. Winter coats at 6:30 a.m. and short sleeves in the p.m. The above photo was taken in front of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. An older couple is reading information in the center window as a couple of younger people were walking along enjoying each other's company. We love the way the "worth" part of Woolworth appears in the photo. Yes, a visit here is well WORTH your time. Yes, we cropped the photo just a bit and brightens the exposure, but nothing was photoshopped in or out. The striped awning on this historic, 1929 building and the newer, retro light post really frame the scene.

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, consider heading downtown; however, it is also the weekend of the reenactment of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. See here for our photo of reenactment that dates back to 2010. So, you can have a 21st century experience along Elm Street and an 18th century experience in Greensboro Country Park. It is so educational to see people wearing clothing from 243 years ago and watching reenactors cooking food that would have been eating at that time. Regardless of what you end up doing, live the weekend to the fullest.

Happy Friday!

Twilight in Greensboro

While the days have been sunny this week, we have experienced a cold snap with temperatures ranging from the 30s to the 70s. But, oh the sunshine, blue skies,  and seeing things blooming has been heavenly. In spite of all the sunshine, we feel compelled to share this twilight photo from Monday. It was way past sunset (8:10 pm daylight savings time, to be exact), and the crescent moon was so clear and bright in the sky. Even though we only had a cell phone when out walking, you have an idea of just how lovely the evening was. 

If you are local, you know we have a lot of golf courses and those golf course water features are fabulous for capturing reflections. This was taken from the outer perimeter of the Farm Course of the Greensboro Country Club, near Carlson Dairy Road. While this end of town is being developed before our eyes, it is still possible to find little pockets of nature and places where the stars shine brightly. The lighting glowing from houses at twilight can be so charming. On Monday, the moon was setting at 9:13 pm. Tonight, it will set at 11:40 pm. It seems strange to see the moon set, just after the sun did so. The next full moon will be on March 25th and the moon will rise at 8:09 pm. Oh, and the spring equinox is Tuesday, March 19th.

Happy Wednesday!

Annie Klick Pottery

The Mud Buddies Pottery Show was held at Bur-Mil at the Park Event Center this past Sunday. The place was filled with fabulous pottery of over 20 local potters. There were artists there with all levels of expertise from full-time, professional artists,  pottery teachers, and students selling their wares. Featured above in Annie Klick, who organized the show. She is holding one of her mugs, one that was wood fired. The weather was perfect and people were eager to get out and enjoy the warm weather. There were lots of Easter-themed items as well as items that would look great  in Greensboro homes, mountain retreats, and beach houses. We bought a couple of gifts (including the mug in Annie's hand).  She had some great berry bowls.

If you missed the March event, there will be other opportunities, including the fall show of the Mud-buddies. You can find Annie on Facebook and Instagram. We have so many talented potters in Greensboro. Remember to buy local.

Happy Tuesday!

SIX@Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

Yesterday was a glorious day and, as you can see, spring is springing in Greensboro. This photo was taken on North Elm Street at the back of Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. The people walking along the sidewalk had just seen the afternoon showing of the Broadway musical SIX. It is about the six wives of Henry VIII, who ruled England from 1509-1547. In Hamilton fashion, the actors sang their way through their lives with a bit of history. They singing was high-energy, contemporary, and up-beat throughout the hour and a half production. The all-female cast and musicians, competitive through most of the show, come to the realization that Henry VIII was famous largely because he had SIX wives. There were a couple of jabs about the concept of "patriarchy" and, to engage the audience, they must have said "Greensboro" a dozen times. It was a great way to help the audience connected to the performance.

As you can see, exiting the theatre was glorious with the sun shining. While the air was crisp and windy, the brightness of the day had everyone walking with a syncopated upbeat. Indeed, SIX was a great way to celebrate Women's History Month. Who are the Greensboro women in your lives? It is a great month to show love and appreciation. Actually, every month is a great time to show love and appreciation.

Happy Monday!

(Do you see the JP/LFG building playing peek-a-boo)?

Saucer Magnolias are in Bloom

The deciduous saucer or tulip magnolias or are blooming now. They are some of the early spring bloomers and after they come out, so much more will start blooming. The saucer magnolias come in white, pink and purple and are actually deer resistant. The blooms don't last long once you pick them, but they are oh so beautiful. Also, as you can see, the daffodils are blooming, too. These perennial, spring flowers are part of the amaryllis family. If you love bulbs and flowers, here is a website for growing information for Greensboro from the NC Cooperative Extension.

Tuesday, March 19th is the first day of spring, just 10 days away. Also, tonight we move the clocks forward an hour making it stay daylight longer. If you are looking for something today, head to the Wesley Memorial Methodist Church for the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast and Book Sale. It is a great way to support a community fundraiser and the pancakes are always served with a smile.

Happy Saturday!

Bright Star Playing at the Sunset Theatre in Asheboro, NC

Bright Star is live musical theatre playing until Sunday at the Sunset Theatre at 234 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro, NC. We had the good fortune of attending last night's show, and, it reminded us so much of Triad Stage. The music and acting was superb. The theatre is intimate and located in the center of town. While the production was in Asheboro, so many of the people involved (especially the musicians) had connections to Greensboro and Guilford County. Above, is a photo of the cast at the end of the production.

The script was written by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. If you want tickets, see here. If you like live theatre and have time to go see this production, it is top quality. The setting is the Blue Ridge Mountains and Asheville, North Carolina in 1923 and 1945.  If you don't mind spoilers, see the synopsis, here. As for the Sunset Theatre, it dates to 1929, only two years after Greensboro's Carolina Theatre. How wonderful that it is still in use.

Happy Friday!

Bird's Eye View of the City of Greensboro

Out sleuthing yesterday, we found this map of Greensboro that dates to 1891. The year of the map was 83 years after Greensboro became a city (1808) and it has a been 133 years since that map was produced. A lot has happened in 133 years. We know this wouldn't have been an original map, but were curious about its origin. It looks like this map was scanned or downloaded from the Library of Congress Digital Collection. At least at one time, it may have been available through the Greensboro History Museum. They have a .jpg available for download. It features prominent buildings as well as the network of streets and trains. Also noteworthy is the amount of green space. So many of the streets have changed. On the digital copy that we've linked to below, you can zoom in and see details. As you look around on the Gateway map collection, you will see that they have maps of Greensboro from many different decades.

The digital era has transformed archives and access to information. But, there is still a need for people and organizations to store digital information, as information can disappear with a click of a button. We hope you enjoy linking through and looking at some of the maps

Happy Thursday!

* see here for map available for download.

Spring Day Sunset Hills Historic District

While it isn't technically spring, yesterday felt like a spring day and today should also be a lovely day. We were spending time in Sunset Hills and happened to look up.  We noticed the beautiful sky with all of the mature trees that, a little more than a month ago, would have had those 1' round Christmas balls in them. Some of those mature trees are over twice the size of the houses. Since 2013, Sunset Hills has been on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). It is the largest NRHP neighborhood in Guildford County.  This designation doesn't mandate appearance standards. Homeowners can opt-in with the opportunity of a tax credit if they elect to participate. 

According to Preservation Greensboro, the neighborhood began in 1922 with Arthur Kirby Moore developing the land.* The neighborhood was nestled between Walker, Avenue, Market Street, and Salem Road. Salem Road was renamed Friendly Avenue. Sunset Hills, even without many sidewalks, is a very walker-friendly neighborhood. Every morning and afternoon, you will see people out walking their dogs or taking children to the neighborhood park. Consider heading out to vote in the primaries today and then finding a walkable neighborhood to enjoy. Sunset Hills is a great one!

Happy Tuesday! 

 

* See reference and lengthy, interesting history HERE.

First Friday Collage Event

The March First Friday was so much fun downtown. In addition to all the regular activities along Elm Street, the Greensboro Cultural Center on Davie Street was filled with performances, vendors, and opportunities to make and see art. The above photo features Joanne Rich facilitating a collage make-and-take. Joanne is an accomplished, award winning collage artist and currently has a piece showing at the Center for Visual Artists, which is located in the Greensboro Cultural Center.  At the make-and-take, Joanne gave participants and much help as they wanted and worked on her own piece when workshop participants wanted to work independently. Joanne has quite an eye for taking little scraps of paper and assembling them into something else. We loved her encouraging words along these lines, "Try it and if it you aren't satisfied, glue something over it."  And that, we did- more than once!

This event was free and open to the public. In April, the theme for First Friday (April 5th) will be poetry. We look forward to all the offerings at the Greensboro Cultural Center centered around poetry. Mark your calendars; spring will be in full bloom by then. We'll close today's post with a haiku in honor of this upcoming event. (Remember, haiku is usually three lines totaling 17 syllables 5-7-5).  Poetry downtown, Poets counting syllables; Forging messages. A big thank you to everyone involved in First Friday on March 1st and a thank you in advance to everyone involved in upcoming events.

Happy Monday!

Softball Season: Bring On the Spring Sports!

The spring sports season is well underway and softball is the favorite of many. The above photo shows the UNCG women's softball team practicing on their home field at the corner of Walker Avenue and Josephine Boyd. Today, the Spartans are on the road at Elon University. The season will run into early May. The next home game will be Sunday, March 3rd at 1:00 pm in this stadium. If you are available, head out to watch the team, as the University is on Spring Break and so the players are working hard turning a time when many of their classmates are off to exotic beaches. This $3,000,000 stadium was completed in 2006 and is a nice place to watch a game. In 2003, Elon was ranked as a top North Carolina D1 school for softball*, so this game should be fun to watch.

We've had some rainy days this week, which also bring out some blue skies. This weekend should be nice, so whether you head to Elon to see a game or come to Spartan stadium on Sunday, the weather should be nice. If you know of teens in the area who play softball, this is the perfect place for them to see some great playing.  Whatever you decide to do this weekend, may you enjoy yourself.

Happy Saturday!

*reference.

Vote Early!

Have you voted yet? Early voting seemed to be gaining traction yesterday. The above photo was taken at Lewis Recreation Center at 3110 Forest Lawn Drive. This center is one of Greensboro's ten recreation centers. If you go there to vote in the afternoon, you will see students enjoying the after school program. Early voting can be done anywhere. However, be sure to take a form of identification. You have today and tomorrow to vote early.  We didn't see any candidates out, but we did see lots of signage. We expect we will see the results after voting on Tuesday (3/5). Former President Trump will be in Greensboro tomorrow for a "Get Out the Vote" Rally. President Biden visited in January. 'Tis the season.

Today is also First Friday, so there will be plenty to do downtown.  Here's to a great weekend for all.

Happy Friday!

Demystifying AI in Education

Last night, Tamika M. Davis, MLS, MS (on right), presented a session on artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The session was hosted by the Beta Gamma Chapter of North Carolina Delta Kappa Gamma (DKG), and on the left is Brittany Roberts, President of the Beta Gamma Chapter.  DKG is an international society of key women educators. Davis and Roberts are both key women educators. One of the goals of DKG is to apprise educators of trends and issues in education. AI is a rapidly evolving technology and it is important for teachers to know how to use it as a tool for teaching and learning, as well as how to help students be good, ethical digital citizens as they use AI.  Ms. Davis shared with the educators in the audience how to use AI to create high impact, equitable lessons. She explained how AI can enhance personalized learning, tutor intelligently, coach, write lesson plans, build presentations, summarize concepts succinctly at an age-appropriate level, and more.

Ms. Davis gave examples of why it is important to fact-check AI responses and how AI detection software like "Turn it In" can hold students accountable for developing their own work and not having AI replace thinking. The meeting was held in Kiser Middle School, which is in the process of getting a new building, a state-of-the-art facility. It will be perfect for using teacher and technology resources to provide lessons that cater to the learning needs of each student. Educators like Ms. Davis and Ms. Roberts and organizations like Delta Kappa Gamma are prime examples of everything that is right about education. Oh, and Ms. Davis's glasses can access AI and serve as a phone; no headphones or AirPods needed. If it seems like she is standing alone talking to someone, the is. If there is a K-12 child in your life, see what they know about AI. There is a lot to think about and a lot to learn- and the younger generation is already on board!

Happy Wednesday!

A Boy and His Dog

When we were out exploring northeast Greensboro this weekend, we stopped by The Lusk Center, Caregiving Education Center. Located at 2501 Summit Avenue, the center is a palliative and hospice care collective. They specialize for tailoring care plans to meet the needs of their clients. End of life care is never easy, but it helps to have people listening to patients and caregivers. In front of the building is the sweetest statue. The Boy and His Dog, donated by Joseph M. Bryan, Jr., was created by Lloyd Le Blanc and Judith Holmes Dreary. This husband and wife duo have created many sculptures together. There is something bittersweet about the boy walking towards hospice and palliative care with the little doggie walking faithfully behind. The sculptors really captured mood and emotion. It reminds us of the statue of O. Henry's dog "Pete" downtown, across from Tanger Center. If you are on North summit, stop by and have a look at the statue.

East White Oak Community Center

Yesterday, we posted on the Freedom Fridges at the East White Oak Community Center on 10th Street in northeast Greensboro. Today, we thought we'd take you inside this wooden building that has played a significant role in this community for over 100 years. We're not sure about the artwork. The mural on the left looks like a work in progress. If you are local, you probably know the people on the right. Those wooden floorboards in this hallway look like they've seen a lot of traffic over the last century plus. When it opened in 1916, it was originally a school house for the children of African-American workers at Cone Mills textiles. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. David Richmond, one of the NC A&T Four grew up in this neighborhood.

If you want a tour of the David Richmond Resource Room, the Mill Village Exhibition, or other parts of this historic property, you can call them at 336-274-4555 or you can email them at [email protected]. There is so much outreach that happens at this community center. And, now with the food pantry, in a part of town with much food insecurity, it will play and even more pivotal role. 

Happy Monday!

305 Kensington Road, Former Home of Fred Chappell

305 Kensington Road is a home in Sunset Hills, just down from The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). It is a property with a yard that has been well loved and tended. It was also the home of Fred Chappell, esteemed  author, poet, and emeritus professor at UNCG from 1997-2002. He was poet laureate of North Carolina from 1997-2002. Fred Chappell was born in Canton, North Carolina (about 20 miles west of Asheville in Haywood County), in 1938. He died recently- this past January 4th- at the age of 86. If you want to know more about him, and have an hour, the PBS documentary, "I Am One of You Forever" is well worth your time. Also, here is a conversation from 2022 where a big take-away is poetry was his passion and he was very humble- even with all of his accomplishments. This quote expresses nicely his love of poetry, "It seems to me, [poetry is] the most natural kind of a speech there is. It’s the most natural, the most elevated, and the most fun — poetry is always attractive. Everybody is immersed in poetry, whether they know it or not."*

The property on Kensington is for sale now. Those who tour the home will notice the garden. The rhododendron are about to bloom, the hellebores are already in bloom, the daffodils have arrived. The next owner will be the new keeper of the garden and a charming abode with lots of book shelves. Fred Chappell was well liked and respected by students, colleagues, and the public at large. The New York Times referred to him as an "admired but unsung writer of the south".  He may be gone, but, indeed, he will be one of us forever.

Happy Friday!

 

*(Woodward's article in Smoky Mountain News, page visited 2/22/24).

 

 

 

I am one of you forever

ITG Brands

Sometimes, driving around Greensboro looking for something to post on Greensboro Daily Photo feels like sleuthing. We were driving on Green Valley Road on a recent afternoon when the sun was low to the horizon and the cement and glass building above was shining brightly. We stopped to have a look and there was no sign of what happens in that building. We did notice the sign on the entrance said "ITG Brands".  Returning home, we were able to research and learn that it stands for Imperial Tobacco Group. In 2015, Lorillard was one of four cigarette brands that divested to Imperial Tobacco Group. Lorillard, a tobacco company that was established in 1875, was sold to Reynolds in 2015. ITG has absorbed so much North Carolina, and Greensboro, tobacco history and it is now located at 714 Green Valley Road.

On the day we visited recently, the building looked almost empty. According to Triad Business Journal, ITG Brands is selling the building. Their headquarters will take over the top floors of a nearby building (reference). What will become of 714? According to City Data records, the building was constructed in 1996 (reference). It seems older than 28 years old. We wonder what will move in. The location is convenient and there is plenty of parking. What do you think it should become? It would be so much fun to have an apartment in that round part.

Happy Thursday!

 

Transform GSO

Yesterday's post featured cross-country walker Holden Ringer. Today, we're featuring the venue where Holden made his presentation and answered our seemingly endless stream of questions. We met at Transform GSO, an event space at 111 West Lewis Street. This downtown co- working space dates back to 2014 when Andy Zimmerman and Ken Causey opened it as HQ Greensboro. In 2020, the space was rebranded as Transform GSO and has expanded to a location next door at 111 Bain Street. These spaces are transformative in that they bring community together and help entrepreneurs and start ups and early stage companies. The space, available to members 24/7,  looked so different on Sunday night, that, at first, we didn't realize that this was the space Maria Johnson interviewed us (actually Mrs. GDP) about Greensboro Daily Photo in 2018 for the O. Henry Magazine.* Fast forward six years later and Greensboro Daily Photo, O.Henry Magazine, and Transform GSO are all three still thriving.

The meeting with Holden brought together many people in the community, most having a connection related to biking and passionate about making Greensboro as biking and pedestrian friendly as possible. In addition to meeting this very inspiring young man, Holden Ringer, we realized that people from every decade of life from teens to age 70+ gathered in a space where we all felt comfortable. This event was a prime example of the extent to which Transform GSO is a catalyst for the good things that are happening in Downtown Greensboro. We encourage you to book a tour of this space (see HERE). There are many options for membership, startomgwotj a $20 day pass. As the Sunday night event was coming to a close, we just stood back for a minute feeling so proud about the sense of community that comes about in shared spaces. Transform GSO for the win!

Happy Tuesday, dear readers.

 

* read the article HERE.

Holden Ringer is Walking Across America

Last night, Bicycling in Greensboro and The Community Bike Shop hosted a potluck for Holden Ringer who is, literally, walking across America. Holden shared his journey with a group of about 20 people at Transform Greensboro at 111 West Lewis Street. Holden is 331 days into his journey that began in Washington State and will conclude in Connecticut. He has walked 3,800 miles and has about 700 more to go. Holden is an Emory University graduate, where he studied marketing, American history, and German. He is making this journey because he is committed to making America more walkable. He walks on US Highways, paths, and anywhere that makes the most sense to get from Point A to Point B. He walked from High Point to Greensboro on Wendover.

Holden walks pushing a stroller he calls Smiley. One really hard day of walking was when he walked 32 miles leaving Salt Lake City, going uphill to an elevation of 5,500 feet. Once, near Atlanta, he walked 52 miles, running at an 8:30 pace for about 40 miles.  Sleeping arrangements have ranged from sleeping under bridges to staying in 6 million dollar homes. Sometimes he connected with people who offered him a place to stay through Reddit and other social media sites.  Sometimes, he knocks on doors and asks people if he can pitch his tent in their yard. Holden says people have been really great and his biggest scares have been with walking on highways with little or no shoulders and with people using cell phones while driving. He has never had any physical danger. He says one of the most challenging states to walk in was South Carolina, given so many roads with no shoulders. However, he said the nice people in South Carolina made up for the challenging walking conditions. If you want to follow Holden's journey, look for him on Instagram and Facebook under Walk2Washington.com. While in Greensboro, Holden is staying with Sheldon Herman who is very involved with the Community Bike Shop and the biking community. Holden made the connection with Sheldon through Greensboro Reddit and the Bicycling in Greensboro group.

Holden will try to meet senators and politicians as he walks through Washington go help get them onboard with funding for biking and making communities more pedestrian friendly. He is on his 9th pair of shoes and second stroller and hopes that will get him through the next 700 miles. We were so lucky to meet this young adventurer on a trip of a lifetime. We suspect he will carry this love of cities, walking, and advocacy for public pedestrian spaces into his career. Right now, he wants to finish this adventure before committing to a specific career path.

Happy Monday!

Happy Valentines Day

What are your plans for Valentine's Day this year? Such is the question being asked in the window of the Biltmore Hotel at 111 West Washington Street. According to its website, the Biltmore Hotel is Greensboro's oldest hotel. The hotel has a lot of provenance and, fortunately, the history of the hotel and all of the functions it has served during the many iterations. Fortunately the stories and documentation are available online (HERE). It has been under new ownership since 2007 and the new owner works hard to keep the hotel upscale, but cozy.

The photo represents a fun window display put up for Valentine's Day. We discovered it while downtown recently looking for festive window displays for February 14th. We didn't get to ask about the Valentine's Day package, but we do intend to try to stay there at some point. And yes, we would like to be a part of the conversation at the Biltmore Hotel. It is the only independently owned and operated boutique hotel in downtown Greensboro. The Biltmore has been part of the revival of downtown and for that, we are grateful!

Happy Valentine's Day! 

It's Hellebore Time in Greensboro!

Tis the season for hellebores to be blooming. These low growing plants make lovely ground cover. Ours love their location under a stand of trees. The five-petal, bowl-shaped flowers and the green foliage add a great pop of color when so much is brown. In our yard, they are the first flowers to bloom. They are also known as lenten roses because they are often in bloom during Lent. If you want a lovely selection, they are usually available in February at the Yanceyville Farmers Market. Also Gethsemane Garden & Nursery at 3707 NC-150 is a great place to start. They are open by appointment (336- 656-3096). Janice Nicholson cultivates them from seed at Gethsemane Gardens and after three years sells them, as they are ready to bloom. We spoke with her at the farmers market this past weekend and learned that the parent plant remains the same color, but the babies can be any color. We always learn so much when we talk to her. We need to interview her for a write-up on Greensboro Daily Photo. We love meeting local people who are passionate about their work, especially when it is related to nature. 

Do you have hellebores in your yard? They grow well in Greensboro and once you start them, you can't imagine February without them.

Happy Tuesday!

"Souper" Bowl Sunday at St. Andrew's

Today is Super Bowl Sunday, which means it is the last day to order soup from Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church. Church members will cook to bring you four different soup options. For $13 per quart, you can order corn chowder with bacon, Italian turkey sausage with white beans and spinach, West African sweet potato peanut, and hearty tomato bisque.  You must order ahead of time- specifically by today. Soup pick up will take place on March 16th and 23rd at the Corner Market from 8:00 am- 12:00 noon, and at the St. Andrew's Parrish Hall on March 17th and 24th from 11:15 am- 12:15 pm.  See details and order HERE at the Good Soup for Good link. This is the official name for the fundraiser. St. Andrew's does so much good for the community, including feeding the hungry. The congregation sponsored an Afghani family and they continue to help the family get established in Greensboro. 

If you follow the link, you will also see details for the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner held at St. Andrew's on Tuesday, February 13th. Tickets are $7 for individuals and $15 for a family ticket. The above photo features Fran (left) and Virginia, members of the congregation who were at the Corner Market yesterday taking orders for the soup fundraiser. How wonderful that the Corner Market is able to use the parking lot of St. Andrew's for their Saturday Market (weekly), and St. Andrew's can set up there, when needed. If you buy soup regularly from the Corner Market, likely it is from John Drees. John is a well-respected local chef in Greensboro, and he volunteered to help the church prepare the soup batches for this fundraiser, in their certified kitchen. What a heartwarming story. Thank you John. Which soup will you be ordering? They all sound so delicious.

Happy Sunday! Happy Souper Bowl.

Forge- Dear Greensboro

The Forge is a dream "3rd Space" downtown. If you need a break from. your home or work, or especially if you have a home office, you can go to The Forge and create something. Or, you can sit in the co-working space and be inspired by those around you. We love this view from the corner of Gate City Boulevard and Eugene Street. It can be hard to find signage with our city written on it, but here we see The Forge sign to the right of the door and "DEAR GREENSBORO" above the door. Of course those signs were created at The Forge.

The Forge bills itself as a gym for makers and haven for "inventors, students, entrepreneurs, artisans, trade professionals, tinkerers, and hobbyists."  There are options for monthly or annual subscriptions. You gain access to tools, equipment, and workspace. You can even take classes. You must demonstrate competence with using a tool to be able to use it. Members are very generous with their knowledge. The Forge Makerspace is at 219 West Lewis Street. This non-profit had its beginnings in 2012 when the founders would meet in coffee shops. Finally, by 2013, they found the above space and have literally turned this little corner of Greensboro from unnoticed to a great space to hang out, create, and collaborate. Do you have a 3rd space? Do you need one?

Happy Wednesday!

Palmer Institute

As stated on State Historic Marker J87, the Palmer Memorial Institute was a preparatory school for blacks founded in 1902 by Charlotte Hawkins Brown. The institute closed in 1971, but the property now a state historic site. The above photo is of the 1929 Green Parrot Tea House. It was the student snack shop where students gathered for their free time to enjoy snacks. According to the sign in front of the one-story building, the shop was typically run by a male senior student, but staffed by underclassmen. This gave students an opportunity to hone their business skills. The Palmer Institute was co-ed, but female students couldn't enter the tea house after dinner, so sometimes they would get a guy to purchase something for them and meet them elsewhere on campus to pick up the snack. Where there's a will, there's a way. 

There is so much history at the Palmer Institute (see HERE). If you get a chance to take a tour or attend an event there, we encourage you to do so. It is located in Sedalia on Highway 70, which is an extension of East Wendover. Sedalia is close to the relatively new Rock Creek. Currently, a 100 acre parcel of land for sale across the street from the Palmer Institute. This little community is about to change before our eyes. We love the looks of this little tea house and need to find out if it is open, as it would be a great place to stop en route to Burlington.

Happy Monday!

Greensboro Highways and Skyways

The above scene features the drive back into town from High Point to Greensboro, driving on the roads south of town. On Wednesday, the skies were split between bright blue and a looming gray cloud cover descending with the afternoon sun. You can see that little blue patch of sky that was quickly being pushed out of the way from the big gray clouds. These are not the sleepy little roads like the High Point Road of yesteryear. 

We hope you have a great weekend and that you find time to get out and explore weekend. Right now, the weather maps are not showing rain until next Sunday. So, this weekend should be great for getting out and exploring. We love seeing signage with the word "Greensboro" on it.

Happy Saturday!

February One- Black History Month

And so we begin Black History Month, a month of people learning about events that propelled the Civil Rights Movement and Black history in general. February One is a big day, it is also the day that the Greensboro Four marched from the campus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  (NC A&T) to the F.W. Woolworth Building at 134 South Elm Street. The above monument, by Greensboro artist and sculptor, James Barnhill, was installed on the campus of NC A&T in 2002. It features the Greensboro Four: David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), and Joseph McNeil.

Today, many people will be visiting NC A&T campus to participate in a special ceremony for the events of February 1, 1960. It is important to remember the past and to work in the moment to lead society in the direction of equity. There is a PBS documentary about February One. It would be in all of our best interests to watch the documentary. 

Happy Thursday! Happy February!

Mebanesville Performed at Common Grounds

Live music warms the soul and last Saturday night's performance of Mebanesville at Common Ground Coffee Shop at 602 South Elam was no exception. It was a cold and rainy night, but the band brought cheer to customers and staff alike. Mebanesville members like to say the band has been living locally while exploring music globally since 2000. Their diverse sound is described as Transatlantic rhythm and roots. The above photo features Iryna Tkachenko whose musical talents include bowed psaltery, mandolin, melodica, ukulele, vocals, and xylophone; Peggy Boswell (back row) pennywhistles; Jane Davis, violin and vocals; Sherry White Lea, bodhran, djembe, hand percussion, harmonica, and vocals; David Thompson (back row) bass; and Larry Vellani, banjo, bass, guitar, mandolin, and vocals. Mebanesville performs at many venues and for community organizations, mostly in the Piedmont, but is always open to new adventures. 

The Elam location of Common Grounds has been open since 2013. They open daily at 7:00 am. Check their website for closing times, but the earliest they ever close is on Monday and Tuesday when they close at 9:00 pm. It is nice to know where to find late-night coffee shop and even nicer when live music is happening- such is the case often at Common Grounds. The combination of good coffee and music is heavenly. A heartfelt thanks to all involved on Saturday, with a special shout out to Sasha, the extraordinary barista, Catherine Thompson who was running sound, and all the Mebanesville friends and family who came out. Two of the band members, David Thompson and Jane Davis are from Greensboro, the others live between here and Mebane.

Happy Tuesday!