Greensboro Daily Photo

Changes at 507 Chapman Street

 

 

Do you remember the True family and the Santa of Chapman Street at 507 South Chapman? Every year Jack True, Sr. would decorate his tiny, humble abode for holidays and especially at Christmas. To jog your memory, see HERE for a Christmas photo of a three decade tradition. See HERE for the Fourth of July flag decoration and HERE for Easter. We sure do miss Mr. True. with  his spirit and generosity. Mr. True died in 2003 at the age of 71. According to the Zillow link, the True house had two bedrooms and one bath and was on .17 acres. It sold on January 22, 2024 for $125,000.

Currently, the above trio of buildings is being constructed on the True family  lot. When we first started posting photos on Greensboro Daily Photo, we didn't really think we would be documenting the extent to which Greensboro is changing. It isn't so much we miss his house as we miss the tradition he started and the joy he brought to so many generations of children. Have fun looking back at the old photos. We probably have more, but that's enough "then and now" for one day. Besides, we're already starting to tear up a little.

Happy Thursday!

Friday Night In Lindley Park

Friday night at the corner of Walker Avenue and Elam, it is so fun to walk around and is really beautiful in early evening. We ate at Fishbones, yummy fish and chips, and blackened salmon with plum glaze and ginger rice. After that, we walked a little and fell in love with this view. Common Grounds was open, but there was no live music last night. Surely, there is some band that would enjoy playing there. We've seen many, wonderful, live shows there. We felt very safe walking around. It was still early and some people were heading to Beltway, likely for one of the most extensive beer walls in town. At the end of the week, it is really nice to see people out. Although this seen looks a little Edward Hopper desolate, there were actually several people out enjoying the evening. We're thinking that bright planet in the upper left-hand corner- the western sky, last night, was Venus. Does anybody know for sure?

Where do you suggest going in Greensboro. We like places that have a local flavor and neighborhood crowd, that aren't chains. Let us know and we will try to stop by for a visit.

Happy Saturday!

Freedom House Thrift

Yesterday, Freedom House Thrift opened in the former location of Tuesday Morning, on North Battleground in the same plaza where Big Lots is located. They had a smaller store a few doors up; however, that plaza will undergo major renovations and some buildings replaced. The new location must be three times the size for the retail portion and the back room for processing is large. They can process as much as they need there, even prepare bales that must move on to another place.  The store is bright, clean, and impeccably staged with vignettes by master designer Lori Gray. The Greensboro community answered the call to send in donations to stock the store and, at least on opening day, there were plenty of volunteers to wait on customers and to keep restocking shelves. The store actually has well-labeled departments. Other than not having duplicate items, you would think you are in a regular retail store. Everything, except the antiques, is nearly new.

The thrift store is a way for Freedom House to make money to fund their Christ-centered, residential facility for mothers struggling with addiction to receive treatment. Freedom house is a large community where participants work and live together for a year and than graduate, but continue with support and to help each other. It was the vision of  Ann Reilly who got it started in 2006. Nineteen years later, the program continues to thrive. The thrift shop keeps items out of landfills, gives their shoppers great items at a reasonable cost and the money helps women and families in need. Read more about the program HERE, and head to North Battleground to see the new store. And if you do not shop thrift stores, do consider items to this store that is local.

Happy Friday!

 

Moonrise Over Wendover Avenue

We've had a full moon this week and this is a view of the moon rising over West Wendover Avenue at Benjamin Parkway. You may not have noticed but there is an overpass on the Friendly Center/ O.Henry Hotel side. That was our positioning for this photo. That was one place in Greensboro we haven't been before. Moon shots are really hard with a cell phone. There was also a great view over the O.Henry Hotel, from near Chick-Fil-A.The moonrise was early that day 5:08 p.m. in Greensboro. As an example, it rises at 8:26 p.m. tonight. Seeing the Proximity Hotel reminds us that the hotel opened in 2007, 18 years ago.  

Ever in search of good places for photography around Greensboro, this one was a fun surprise. If you look at this map, provided by the O. Henry Hotel, you can see exactly where we were- at the trail entrance for the Greenway and the fitness trail that takes you all the way downtown, and beyond. We're betting this would be a good location for a sunrise. Stay tuned!

Happy Tuesday!

A Mondrian Take on Perry's Service Center

Perry's Service Center, formerly known as Perry's Downtown Exxon, is located in the 400 block of North Greene Street, a block off North Elm.  On January 26, 2015, The Greensboro News and Record wrote an article about Perry's being the oldest, downtown gas station even in the early 1980s. As the article points out, in 1953, less than a decade after WWII, there were 47 places to buy gas downtown. Journalist Jim Schlosser cleverly combed Greensboro city directories and surmised that gas was first pumped there in 1929. *

A couple of years ago, we were walking past the property the day Exxon was leaving the site. A couple of guys were called in to remove Exxon signage and they didn't know what was happening next.  According to the Winston Salem Journal (3/26/24), as confirmed by their perusing the Register of Deeds filings, a Clemmons group purchased the site for $502,000.  This past December 29th, we were urban walking and noticed a fresh paint job on the building with the addition of yellow on the canopy. This must be new, because yellow was never an Exxon color. Also, the concrete car bumpers have been painted bright red.  Another sign of life was that bay being partially open.  However, what really caught our eye was the red, blue, and yellow composition against square and rectangular shapes. If the 20th century Dutch painter Piet Mondrian's canvases came to life in a street scene, they would not look unlike this scene!

Happy Monday!

 

*If you miss Mr. Schlosser's journalism and you like a good stories about Greensboro, see the original article HERE.

Our Vote Is Our Power!

Today is the day. Since half of North Carolina has already voted, today is the day the other half of the state  will vote. If you are not sure where you vote,  here is the list of polling places. Remember, today, you must vote in your assigned place and a few polling places have changed. The Greensboro Transit Authority announced that bus fares are waived today so people can go vote. You need a valid photo ID, but if you do not have one, you can fill out a "Photo ID Exemption Form."

The above photo was taken at the Greensboro Cultural Center on Davie Street at the Guilford Native American Art Gallery. According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, there are 1.012 American Indians registered in Guilford County. Out of North Carolina's 100 counties, the one with the most registered voters who identify as American Indian is Robeson County (26,403). Every vote matters, and indeed, "Our vote is our power." Today is the day to use your superpower, regardless of  your political affiliation and what demographic you fit!

Also, if you like original art, or want to know more about Greensboro's Native American community, stop by the Native American Art Gallery.

Happy Election Day 2024!

Revolution Mill on Yanceyville Street

Fall is such a special time of year. It gets dark earlier, yet it isn't cold yet; making it perfect to spend time to attend events and be outside. The above photo was taken at Revolution Mill on Yanceyville. Revolution is an old textile mill that was empty for a good while and now it is a multi-purpose, mixed-use building with everything from housing to offices, to restaurants, to exhibit space, and more. Here, we see a family leaving Cugino Forno Pizza Restaurant. We were leaving the ArtStock preview. 

This is a busy weekend for activities in Greensboro. There is ArtStock (see information in link) and also Leanne Pizio's Keep it Local Art and Pottery Show. Leanne's show has been going on for 26 years.  It is at 2409 Oak Ridge Road. There will be fabulous artwork and the weather will be nice. You could go from place to place meeting artists all day today and still have places to visit. If  you really want to be adventurous, you could take Amtrak to Raleigh and attend the last weekend of the NC State Fair. There are many options. 

Oh what a beautiful Saturday it will be.

Great Progress Being Made on Brooks Global Elementary School

The above photo is of the new, relocated  Brooks Global Elementary School at 400 Ashland Drive near the Greensboro Arboretum. The plan is for it to open in January. It is located on the Old Craven School Site.  The families with children currently enrolled  absolutely love Brooks School, the culture, and the teachers. They are beyond excited to have their children attend the new school that will have new technology and will emphasize sustainability and discovery learning. If you get out this weekend, drive by and see your tax dollars at work. This is an 80,000 sq. ft. building and the lot is about 8 acres, but, it fits perfectly.

Happy Saturday! 

Oscar Oglethorpe Eyewear

Earlier in the week, leaving the celebration for Justice and Mrs. Frye and heading to our car, we noticed this window at Oscar Oglethrope Eyewear at 226 South Elm Street. Seeing those eyes staring back at us in purple and burgundy caused us to reminisce about a time, decades ago. Back in the day, storefronts were the Internet and social media for a store. Grocery stores posted ads of what was on sale, what was not available. Clothing stores dressed mannequins that drew y ou in. Consumers went "window shopping." Doing window displays was a popular profession.

In the 21st century, storefronts simply don't have that same allure. But look at how the Oscar Oglethrope Eyewear window draws you in. Their windows are always so creative and change often; same with their trendy glass frames. Their inventory is constantly changing. Decorating a downtown window  seems so appropriate. As for the 200 block of South Elm Street, here is what the documentation for the "National register of Historic Places Inventory- Nomination Form" has to say about the 200 block of South Elm.

"This area contains the most architectural diversity of any part of the district, Here are found the simple Italianate structures of the late 1880's, 1890's and early 1900's, as well as the Art Deco buildings of the 1920's and 1930's and the modern structures of the 1950's and 1970's. The entire area is included because all structures fit together so well to form a complete sereetscape of both sides of the street and show such a wide range of architectural styles. Most of the structures are two-stories in height, although a few do rise to three and four stories."

Happy Saturday, a perfect time to go window shopping and reflect on what you see.

Bobby Goffredo, Graffiti Artist

Bobby Goffredo is a graffiti artist from Staten Island, New York. He has been in the Jamestown/High Point area for five years. Yesterday, we saw him painting murals at Dino's Audio Video at 3116 Battleground Avenue. Bobby has been at it a few weeks, with more to go. Bobby has been painting graffiti for years,  remembering fondly riding into New York City, as a child with his dad, and being fascinated by all of the graffiti. He developed his graffiti skills in New York back when the work was not appreciated  as an art form in the same way it is today.

Bobby is a cancer survivor whose cancer is attributed to being a first responder at the Twin Towers on 911. As inspiration to himself and others, on the other side of Dino's, he has plans to paint a cancer ribbon and writing the encouraging message, "Nobody Fights Alone."  He also paints his fingernails the color the cancer awareness ribbon for a given month (see colors HERE). We hope Bobby feels at home in the Greensboro area. Maybe Bobby could teach a graffiti class at Hirsch Wellness Center, a place dedicated to bringing  art to cancer survivors and their families. In the meantime, we'll keep our eye on the building across from Balance Day Spa on Battleground Avenue as it transforms into a bright pop of color; not only advertising Dino's business, but also reminding us to live every day to the fullest.

Happy Friday!

Dear Dads at 3929 Battleground Avenue

If you drive on North Battleground near the intersection of Horse Pen Creek Road, you may have noticed the restaurant about to open in the  building between the BP Gas Station and Elizabeth's Pizza. It will be called "Dear Dads" and is operated by Fernando (center) and (from left to right) Veronica, Melanie, Haidi, and Katie. The space has been completely renovated inside and will serve Mexican-American food. They will be open 24-hours a day, seven days a week. The dream is to create a 3rd space where people will want to become regulars. They are considering open-mic nights and other community oriented events..

The 1827 square ft. building was constructed in 2000 as a Waffle House. The population in this part of town has increased significantly over the last 24 years and a new restaurant will be welcome addition. After chatting at length with the local families who have been working day and night to get the restaurant ready, we're convinced Dear Dads will be around for a long time. They anticipate opening August 26th, pending final inspections

Here's to a great Friday!

Continental Club

How will you spend the weekend in Greensboro? The above photo is of a banjo player, yes, a banjo player, heading into the Continental Club on 816 South Elm Street. This is a great place fore music and dancing. The venue is located in a building that was originally "The Mill" a landmark and historical place. It is so great to see those historic buildings put to good use. It sold in 2016 and has been a hub of activity since then. If you are out this weekend, head downtown Greensboro and check out some of these historic properties that are getting a new life. The above property was originally the 1910 North State Milling Company. See a wonderful 2 minute video HERE.

Happy Saturday and happy exploring historic Greensboro.

Sears Demolition Is Well Under Way- 2024

2024 has been a year of change in Greensboro. We already showed you a photo of the razing of the News & Record building downtown. Today's photo is of demolition in progress Sears in Friendly Center at 3200 West Friendly Avenue. This is the east side with the main entrance. When it closed in 2023, the Friendly Center store was the last remaining Sears store in North Carolina. Nationally, Sears has roots dating back to 1892 (see history HERE). The year 1928 was a banner year for Sears in North Carolina when the first Sears opened in North Carolina. In that year, Sears stores opened in Greensboro, High Point, Asheville, Wilmington, and Winston-Salem- a year before the stock market crashed. In Greensboro, Sears relocated in 1934, 1940, 1948, and 1973.*

Sears remained in Friendly Center for fifty years, from 1973- 2023. In 2012, Whole Foods took over part of the Sears building in Friendly. At one point, there was discussion of renovation of the above building, but as it stands now, it looks like it may be headed for total demolition. D.H. Griffin has the contract. We are wondering how they will address the common wall, shared by Whole Foods and Sears. While we are sad to see this business close, it is always refreshing when a lot gets rebuilt, as opposed to destroying unimproved, rural land.

What Sears memories do you have? Likely it will date us, but yes, we have great memories of looking through the Sears catalog to pick out school clothes and Christmas toys. We remember going to the catalog department and picking up (and returning) items for our grandparents and parents. For many, there is some real nostalgia associated with Sears. Here's to new beginnings.

Happy Tuesday!

 

*read the timeline for Sears stores in North Carolina HERE.

More Along Eugene Street

Yesterday's post was from a photo taken while walking along Eugene Street. Today, it is the same. This is the part of Eugene across from the ballpark. In the middle, Hyatt Place is featured. It was built in 2019 and adds a modern flair to this part of town. It has 108 rooms and is known for having a sleek design and for being dog friendly.  The photo is a bit distorted as a result of the angle we used to take the picture. However, the angle does add to the emphasis on geometric shapes.

If you look closely, you can see the city's beloved Lincoln Financial Group off to the far right. There is a lot happening downtown this weekend as tomorrow is First Friday. Thursday is the new Friday, so today would be a great day to head downtown. See you there!

Lincoln Financial Group, Plus

On one of our recent urban walking treks, we were looking at all of the changes on Eugene Street, which led us to the baseball stadium, the Hyatt, the Carroll at Bellemeade Apartments, and more. We then went to the Grace United Methodist Church and noticed that the lot at the corner of Eugene and Friendly is cleared and filled in with grass. This open lot provides a perfect view of the (from left to right) the Jefferson Standard Building (1923)  The Lincoln Financial Group Building (1990), the West Market Street United Methodist Church (this iteration dates to 1898), and the L. Richardson Preyer Federal Building (completed 1933).

L. Richardson Preyer, a Greensboro native,  was a United States district judge of the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina and later a United States representative of North Carolina. This accomplished person, a Princeton and Harvard graduate, was the son of Mary Norris Richardson Preyer and William Yost Preyer, and the grandson of Lunsford Richardson, the founder of Vick Chemical Company. On this one city block, alone, in Greensboro, there is so much history. What a joy it is to piece together; and it is even more fun to explore on foot. Now, with cell phones, we can walk and research and photograph, all at the same time.

Happy Wednesday!

At the Corner of Beaman Place & Grecade Street

Today's photo was taken in the same parking lot as the one from yesterday. This is a parking lot on the southeast corner of Beaman Place and Grecade Street in Mid-town. Beyond the lens to the left is FILTER Coffee Shop, then The Tiny Greenhouse, Then Craftroom (the pink building [artwork by Golden305]), then the Music Academy, and finally, the building with the mural is The Chop Shop Hair Company. Also, hidden back there is Jacobi-Lewis Restaurant Supply. This shows you just how diverse the area of town is becoming.

Just researching this post has us wanting to go back and visit each of these businesses. The Chop Shop Hair Company is decorated in steam punk style full of collectibles. Also, they cut hair for men and women. We didn't see the artist's name on the mural, but we bet The Chop Shop manager will know. There is so much to explore in Greensboro and we're out to see as much as possible this summer. Don't forget the inaugural "World Promenade" on Sunday, June 2nd at the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden from 1:00- 5:00 p.m.. It is a rebranding of the Parisian Promenade, but it will be another spectacular Greensboro Beautiful event.

Happy Last Day of May!

News & Record, Going But Not Forgotten

The weekend started with acclaimed author and journalist, James McBride praising the fine journalism in Greensboro. The weekend ended with our heading over to see what was left of the Greensboro News & Record Building on East Market Street. The front of the building is still intact, but demolition is well under way on the back side. You can still see office space from this back view. Demolition should be finished by the end of the summer. While the newspaper traces its roots back to the late 1800s, the above building was completed in 1976. After 48 years, with the diminished state of print journalism in the digital era, no longer needed were the above in-person think tank and printing presses. D.H. Griffin began demolition on 4/22/24. They are the local company that played a major role in clean up after the 911 tragedy in New York City. 

While on site, we noticed pieces of steel I-beams, chunks of bricks and cement, and many interesting metal pieces (e.g., several small metal doors that looked like facades of safes). After resuming our walk along South Elm Street, we visited Sculptor Jim Gallucci's 9/11 Sculpture Project on at the South 500 block of Elm. It is crafted from beams that D.H. Griffin brought back from NYC. Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a sculpture commemorating 130 years of noteworthy journalism in Greensboro. The I-beams are still there and could be figured into a sculpture. As we were leaving, we noticed a piece of the Sunday comics in the rubble. It was on that thick paper and the color was intact. Sometimes you don't realize what you miss until it is gone. We look forward to seeing what becomes of the space.

Happy Monday!

Brooks Global, In Progress

We love to drive by new school construction and check on progress. The above photo is of Brooks Global Elementary School as it stands now, located just behind the Greensboro Arboretum. This is one of the six schools that have been funded with bond money. The state-of-the-art design will fit an 80,000 sq. ft. building on an 8-acre lot. There will be solar panels and ceiling tiles made of recycled material; all visible to students so they can learn about sustainable energy. The school will have large windows to help bring the outdoors in and students will be able to walk across the street to the Arboretum.* An outdoor classroom in anticipated to be a popular feature.

The building is starting to look like a school. If you want to see people hard at work, get there before 3:30, when the construction crew winds up for the day. When we visited yesterday, we saw people hard at work. The process and progress are fascinating. Those will be some lucky teachers and students who have the privilege of teaching and learning here. Hopefully, photos of the construction will be available to be archived.

Happy Friday!

*reference and more information, HERE.

 

 

Layers of Downtown

We love this view on Greene Street and have published a similar one in years past. The front building is the Fire Department, City of Greensboro Central Station. It was built by architect Charles C. Hartmann from 1925- 1926. In 1980, this Renaissance Revival building is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It closed in 1980, replaced by a station at 1514 North Church Street. We love the way the Marriott Hotel looms large behind the fire station. The day we walked by, the red, white, and blue cars just happened to be parked in a row- adding yet another layer of visual interest. 

Mariott will build a 12-story hotel on North Eugene Street. Here is a list of many projects on the books for downtown Greensboro.  Have a great Thursday! Head downtown to see some of these projects in process and locations of what is here now that will soon be replaced.

Wrangler, Lee, Kantoor

Today's photo features the view of the Wrangler, Lee, Kontoor Building at 400 North Elm Street. The photo was taken from the southeast side of Tanger Center. We love the way the unidentified couple echos the couple on the advertisement. This 60,000 sq. ft. building opened in early 1994. Oh, the changes it has seen in 30 years. However, fortunately, the world headquarters of what is now Kontoor is located here, in Greensboro. When the four story building opened, there were 700 employees*. For our loyal history buffs, here is a timeline of Wrangles history, something we can be very proud of in Greensboro. 

Preparing this post, we realize we've never been inside the building. The lighting is supposed to be indirect and conducive to a good work environment. We're adding that effort to visit the inside to our summer "to do" list. As for the couple in the photo, we're betting they were wearing jeans!

Happy Tuesday!

*reference and more information HERE.

Tate Street

Tate Street Coffee has been a Greensboro institution since 1993. It is one of those coffee shops that stays full of students and faculty. It is a great 3rd space- a home away from home and office. The artwork on the walls is engaging, the staff knows the regulars well, and people are usually willing to engage in conversation. At the academic year approaches the end of the semester, the coffee shop crowd will shift a bit. To the right of Tate Street Coffee is Boba House. In March, it closed permanently, ending a 20 year run of a Vietnamese/Thai, vegan/vegetarian restaurant. They were serving boba tea with tapioca pearls long before the boba tea craze. Let's hope something with character and good food moves into their location.

If you are on Tate Street this evening, you will have at least two opportunities for events. "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical will be playing in the Brown Building at 402 Tate, and Tim Warfield will be performing in the UNCG Auditorium at 408 Tate. Since the semester is ending, many event options are related to students' final projects. The Lalla Essaydi photos will be in the Weatherspoon Art Museum for about another month. If you arrive at the Weatherspoon during the day, you will have the option to grab a cup of coffee from the Borough Coffee Cart. To be sure, there is so much to choose from along Tate Street.

Happy Friday!

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!

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!

WFMY News 2

A few weeks ago, we were on the east side of Greensboro, just east of Highway 29 and drove past WFMY News 2. It was a cold and rainy day and we took this photo without getting out of the car.  Seeing the building reminded us of what a great resource our local news channels are. Especially now that so few people are reading the newspaper, we are relying on the news stations for local news. We had a chance to go inside in 2015 (see HERE) . We have to chuckle at our comment that this is an "unimposing square building on Phillips Avenue." We also had the good fortune to interview Lee Kinard who started at WFMY in 1956 and worked there for 43 years (see HERE).  He was such an amazing community resource and founded one of the early morning shows on TV (The Good Morning Show).

The exterior of the building looks so unimposing, but when you go inside, it is feels like a magical, alternate reality. We hope you get inside sometime- and for good reasons. WFMY launched its first live show on August 18, 1949 and will turn 75 this year. You may have heard about the big birthday celebration and they're looking for people in the community to celebrate who are turning 75. We'll have to look through out interviews and see if there is anyone we've interviewed to suggest for the "Turning 75" segment. Are you?

Happy Thursday!

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!

Black History Month Sunset

Closing out Black History Month, with an extra day this leap year, we find ourselves on the stairs of the Historic Dudley Memorial Building. It was originally the administration building on the campus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University (NC A&T). It was built in 1930, making it close to 100 years old. It is a beautiful brick building that now houses the University Galleries. The architectural style of the building is Neoclassical Revival; you can see the columns peeking on the outer edge of the photo. While the building isn't visible here, what is in view is the back of the 2001  Barnhill monument, February One ( also known as The A&T Four Monument). The four men here are remembered for their contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and the Sit-Ins. On February 1, 1960, they walked from campus to take their place at the Woolworth lunch counter to the west of campus.

While the sun is setting in the photo, the shadows are long, and Black History Month is coming to a close, let us hope the journey towards a just and fair world will continue. 

Happy Leap Day!

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.

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!

 

2412 Battleground Avenue

Driving down Battleground Avenue yesterday, we did an about face and pulled into the Office Depot Parking lot to investigate the new construction at 2412 Battleground Avenue. This property has been many things over the years. This address needs a personal archivist to document all of the iterations of the space. Our earliest recollection is that 2412 Battleground was a bank. Then, in 2003, Bardy's Jewelry left Friendly Center to relocate here. After Bardy's, about 4 years later, Mythos Grill moved into the space. Mythos was at 2412 Battleground for about 13 years, before moving to across Battleground near Biscuitville in 2020. According to the Business Journals (8/4/2023), the above structure will become the new State Street Jewelers. The owners of State Street Jewelers, Michael and Amanda Wilson have owned the property since 2021 as their business is outgrowing their currently location (reference). Now we're wondering what will move into their location on State Street. As for 2412 Battleground, let's hope it is a booming success for State Street Jewelers. It is interesting that they completely tore down the old building and, as you can see, they are building from the ground up. We can't wait to see what the new store looks like inside (and outside, too).

Happy Wednesday!

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! 

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!

Kress Building

The Kress Building, downtown Greensboro, is so beautiful and really stands out in winter when there is no foliage to obstruct the view. We've featured it plenty of times over the past 15+years, but it is just one of those places we like to stop and study when we are on one of our walks from Tanger Center to Gate City Boulevard. Located at 212 South Elm Street, it was built in 1930. This art deco building has been restored. It has struggled over recent decades to get tenants that revive it to its original glory. It could even be subdivided, seems to be a place just waiting for someone to find the right use(s) for it.

The buildings considered Art Deco in Greensboro include: The Stone Ellis Building/Thalimer Department Store; Guilford County Office and Court Building; International Cilvil Rights Center and Museum; Isaacson Building; L. Richardson Preyer Federal Building; Mock, Judson Voehringer Company Hosiery Mill; and the S.H. Kress Company Building. Of all the options, this one seems to stand out the most. What do you think? It would be fun to seek all of them out on a Saturday afternoon. Here's to a great Thursday!

First Friends Meeting: A Quaker Church

Today's post is the First Friends Quaker Church on West Friendly Avenue. In addition to the church's wooden sign that makes it clear "all are welcome", there is an additional sign stating, "THESE QUAKERS LOVE YOU", surrounded by a rainbow of colors dabbed around the border of the sign. As we walked the campus this past week, we were pleased to note the cornerstones around the church. From them, we learned that the congregation was organized May 6, 1891; the above church (or meeting house) was erected in 1957; and there is a cornerstone from an earlier building, dated 1909.

If you notice, there are solar panels on the northeast side of the building Quakers were advocates of earth-friendly practices before reduce-reuse-recycle became everyday household words. If you drive to the church and want to attend today, there is ample parking. A large magnolia tree somewhat obscures the building from view.It is located at 2100 West Friendly Avenue.

Happy Sunday!

First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro

Tis the season. Above is a photo of the First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro at 617 North Elm Street. The First Presbyterian Church was first organized in 1824 by the Rev. William D. Paisley. This was sixteen years after Greensboro was established. This is actually the fourth iteration of the First Presbyterian Church. The third building remains today, a few blocks to the southeast on Church Street and Summit Avenue. That building is now used as the Greensboro History Museum. The above building was constructed in 1929.*

In addition to church today, if you are in the mood for some Christmas music, this afternoon at 4:30, there is a handbell prelude in the sanctuary and then at 5:00 pm, there are scripture readings and music with the Chancel Choir, the Canticle Choir, and the Coventry Singers and orchestra. The event will also be available through live-streaming HERE. This would be a great way to begin the final week before Christmas. With the music and the beautiful, monumental sanctuary it feels like a little bit of Europe right here in Greensboro.

* read more church history HERE.

Street Scenes: In front of the International Civil Rights Center and Museum

We love walking along Elm Street from Tanger Center to Gate City Boulevard and capturing street scenes along the way. The above photo, taken earlier in the week, shows men delivering a large piece of furniture/equipment in front of the Woolworth building. The Woolworth building, now the "International Civil Rights Center and Museum" is located at 134 South Elm Street. The piece was pulled out of a U-Haul van that looked about 17' long, so we're betting these guys had been at it for a while and we were just seeing the delivery of the last piece. A healthy city is a dynamic ebb and flow of things coming and going. 

According to the website SAH Archipedia, The Woolworth building was designed and constructed in 1929 by Charles C. Hartmann who relocated to Greensboro from NYC in 1921 to design the Jefferson Standard building.  From the looks of the bright red signage, it was as if it were built to be "Woolworth" forever. Fortunately, when the museum opened thirteen years ago in 2010 the signage was kept, as it is a big part of the history of the Civil Rights Movement in Greensboro. Hopefully, the guys making the delivery had a chance to look around and take in some of the history of the museum; something that would be great for all of us to do today. The museum opens at 10am.

Happy Saturday! 

Hudson Hill 527 South Elm Street, Formerly Coe Grocery

This is one of our favorite photos from The Festival of Lights. South Elm street looks so lovely with families milling about and stores open with colorful lights framing the scene. Then there is Santa peeking out of a second story window, where so much magic happens at Hudson Hill- lively conversations, plan making for future businesses, ideas about recapturing some of Greensboro textile history. Hope for the future grows when you realize that many of the people sewing leather and denim are young- as in between 25 and 40.

As seen on the signage on the side of the building, the Hudson Hill Building was formerly Coe Grocery and seed (See 2016 photo HERE).

1899 Depot Coming Soon!

The Southern Railways, 1899 Depot, is being brought back to life and  is something we've all been waiting for. If you go downtown for the Festival of Lights this Friday, December 1st, have a look at this building as you cross the railroad tracks at 400 South Elm Street. If you peek to the left, you can see the railroad tracks running along the building. Trains come by here all day long, so it will be important for the building to be structurally sound and as soundproof as reasonable.

The above building was only used for 28 years as a train railway when, in 1927, it was replaced by the station on East Washington Street. In an WFMY2 News article from early summer, Downtown Greensboro Inc. President Zach Matheny mentions that the hope the restored building will have a restaurant, bar, and social space inside. Given the fact the building is 124 years old, it remains in remarkably good shape- at least what we can see on the exterior. See this link for a view of how the building looked back when it was a train station. We love the way Greensboro makes an effort to respect the history of the downtown's architectural footprint, knowing that updates are needed for a space to be 21st century relevant.

Happy Tuesday!

Greensboro's Skyline- A View from Southside

This view of the Greensboro skyline was taken from Southside, just south of the train tracks. It captures many of the 20th century buildings that come closest to being skyscrapers. At the time it was built in 1923, the Lincoln Financial Group (LFG) building, originally the Jefferson Standard Building, was the tallest building between Atlanta and Washington, D.C.. The Jefferson-Pilot building, just to the left and two stories taller (with the green roof and time and temperature), was added in 1990. Now, the whole complex is part of LFG. 

We love to hike the city and see our grand skyscraper from as many different angles as possible. We even have a tag for it, see the JP Building. We first featured in Year 1 of GDP on October 13, 2009. If you attend the Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 11th, it will begin at noon at the corner of Lindsay and North Elm Street, very near the JP/LFG building Let us know your favorite place to view this building. We are still hoping to get an invitation to watch sunrise or sunset from the top! Do you have a connection for us?

Happy Thursday!. 

Formerly Harris Teeter

For those of you who formerly purchased groceries at the Harris Teeter at the corner of Muirs Chapel and 4640 West Market Street, this is the space today. Formerly painted "Harris Teeter", look at the building now. It definitely grabs the attention! What kind of business could be going in near Joann's Fabric and the Shoe Market? It is a huge space and work is being done on the inside. That Harris Teeter opened in 1999, employing 60 people. It closed in the above location twenty-one years later in 2020. Remember, it was in 2006 that the Harris Teeter in Friendly Center opened. Known affectionately by locals as the Taj MaTeeter, at least at the time it was built, it was the largest Harris Teeter in North Carolina.

Scenes like this one are what we see every day, representing change in Greensboro. As soon as we see change, of course we want to ponder what a space was like in previous iterations and how it will transform in the future. That lone car in the middle is there to provide perspective. This, too, is a large space. Stay tuned!

Happy Saturday!

Carina Cole, Manager of Hannah's Bridge

Carina Cole is the manager of Hannah's Bridge, a thrift shop with clothing for women, children, and men. We had a lovely conversation with Ms. Carina yesterday at the Grove Street location in Glenwood, which is actually Hannah's Bridge, Too. Hannah's Bridge (One) is in the Lawndale Plaza in Irving Park. The banner behind her explains the mission of Hannah's Bridge and their addition recovery program, Hannah's Haven. Testimonials on the wall in the store are from several young women who have seen their life turn around with help through Hannah's Haven. The program and the thrift shop are affiliated with Grace Community Church on West Gate City Boulevard, not too far from the Glenwood neighborhood.

The store is so beautiful. It is clean, spotless, and looks brand new, as do the clothes. Ms. Carina explained that they wanted to make sure their Glenwood location was as nice as the Lawndale one. The public schools in the Glenwood area are Title 1 schools and Hannah's Bridge does what they can to help the local community. As an example, this Saturday (September 30th), at the Glenwood location from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, all clothing and shoes will be sold for $1. If you know someone who needs clothing, please consider taking them to get a new outfit. Alternatively, consider stopping by and leaving a financial donation. They are a great cause. The addiction recovery program is Christ-based and for those who are ready for help, this is a great community resource.

The not-for-profit program was started by Bonnie Harris in 2003; the name Hannah came to her in a dream. When she checked the Bible, she learned that Hannah was a barren woman who cried out to the Lord and then gave birth (1 Samuel 1:19). "Haven" comes from the notion that that a haven is a safe place, and the "bridge" is the pathway to the haven.

Happy Sunday!

 

National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month and college students are especially vulnerable. Many are away from home for the first time without the safety net of family and friends. Also, the rigor of college courses can be stressful. The above photo features a field of awareness and inspirational sayings at UNCG. The display gives  people resources and something to think about as they walk along the path in front of the Elliot University Center. 

988 is a dedicated number for people to call if they are in crisis or need information about resources. NAMI Guilford (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is another resource for Greensboro and the surrounding area. NAMI got started in Madison, WI, in the 1970s and now has affiliate groups in 48 states. We also have a North Carolina NAMI. These pinwheels get displayed every year and they remind us to always make an effort to be kind and to let people around us know we care. The pinwheels represent people who have died by suicide. The white stacks of Jackson Library can be in the background. May we have fewer pinwheels next year.