Greensboro Daily Photo

Friends- Guilford College Style

Saturday is a perfect day for friends. Last Saturday, four friends gathered at Scuppernong Books to spend time together. Madison Burkhardt, Jillian Southworth, Brownie Southworth, and Laura Mae Allen were roommates at Guilford College. Madison majored in biology, Jillian in psychology, Brownie in geology, and Laura Mae in history and education. In spite of their diversity in interests, they found more in common than differences. They got along so well, Jillian and Brownie married and all four remain lifelong friends.

When asked what they loved about Guilford College, the response was the sense of community fostered at the college and the fact that the professors really care about students. What a great testimonial to the learning environment at Guilford College. It is heartwarming to see people gather in downtown Greensboro, celebrating their friendships and reminiscing over their college experiences. Scuppernong Books is one of many perfect places to spend time together in Greensboro. Call a friend and head downtown. As for the above four, may their friendships continue to deepen and may they always find time for each other. Something we love about Greensboro Daily Photo is all of the great people we meet.

Happy Saturday!

Neil deGrasse Tyson

Last night, Neil deGrasse Tyson spoke at Tanger Center. For two hours, he entertained the audience by incorporating science and humor. We talk about having a global perspective, but Dr. Tyson brings perspective-taking to a whole new level, a cosmic one. He reminds us of the vastness of the universe and how the human body is made up of nearly the same elements as the universe and explained how it is that the universe is alive in all of us. People were excited about conceptualizing the vastness of the universe, how molecules connect us all, and the sense of perspective that can be taken on the world now that it has been seen from space. He encouraged the audience to think globally because air and water molecules "don't have to go through passport control" and therefore there is a little bit of each of us in everyone else. 

Dr. Tyson is a prolific author and public speaker with a special talent for communicating about science in a way that is accessible to even non-scientists. We were struck by the number of young adults that were in the very intergenerational audience. There are the kind of talks that can be transformative for the listener. It would be so wonderful for even more young people to have an opportunity to hear Dr. Tyson in person. He recounts how career defining it was for him to get to talk to Carl Sagan during his high school years. He vowed, if ever famous, to make mentoring youth a priority. This was such a special way to spend a Thursday night. And now, on to Friday!

 

Veterans Day 2023

Yesterday was the Veterans Day Parade in downtown Greensboro. It was limited to North Elm, starting at about Lindsay Street and North Elm and turning east on Market Street. Attendance was light, but those who were in attendance were patriotic and enthusiastic Featured above is Robert Hare, Marine Corps League, Greensboro Detachment. According to their website, the Marine Corps League is the only congressionally charted US Marine Corps related veterans organization in the United States. It became an organization in 1937 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Guilford County Detachment 260 is based out of Jamestown and was founded in 1972. This chapter has members from every conflict the Marines have served in since World War II. 

If you missed yesterday's parade, High Point is having one today and the Field of Honor is always open. Because we like to post something spiritual on Sundays, we looked up the religious affiliation of U.S. military veterans. It appears that about 66% are Protestant, 23% Catholic.  Just under 4% are minority faith groups (including Jewish, Muslim, Orthodoxy,  Mormon, Buddhism, Shinto, Hindu, and Sikh. Just under 6% unknown.* If you want the statistics of Veterans religious affiliation by state, see here.**  Veterans Day is a more joyful celebration than Memorial Day as the latter remembers those who died serving our country. For all of our readers who are veterans, thank you for your service.

Happy Sunday!

 

*Free Liberty Institute

 

** https://www.data.va.gov/dataset/Veteran-Religious-Affiliation-by-State/mcjn-bnqy

Lynsey Addario

Last night, we had the pleasure of hearing Lynsey Addario speak at Tanger Center as part of the 2023-2024 Bryan Series: Heroes in our Midst. Indeed, Addario is a hero. This American photojournalist has covered humanitarian crises in the Middle East and Africa for more than two decades. She is one brave person. When The New York Times or National Geographic call with a high-risk assignment, she heads to the heart of a conflict, sometimes accompanying the military on the front line. She has won Pulitzer Prizes, most recently in 2023. She is the recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship and was named one of the world's most influential photographers, giving the world a first-hand view of war and conflict. Ms. Addario tells very compelling stories about her powerful experiences.

Greensboro is so lucky to have the Bryan Series and the Tanger Center.  As we pause to celebrate Veterans Day tomorrow and Saturday, we are reminded that Ms. Addario knows her share of veterans, many of whom she was on assignment with on the front line; many of whom she saw gravely wounded or killed. A veteran is a person who served in the military. Another definition is a person who has had long experience in a particular field. Ms. Addario is a veteran photojournalist who is as close to being a military veteran as you can be without actually enlisting. We thank you, Ms. Addario, for your service.

Happy Friday!

Remembering the Saints

Christ Lutheran Church on Lawndale is having a "Remembering the Saints" event. As you drive by, on the southeast corner of Lawndale Drive and Pisgah Church Road, you see all of these crosses. They represent "Saints" from the history of the church. Wednesday, November is "All Saints Day". There is also a cross for Martin Luther, one for fallen fire fighters and fallen police. We don't know how long it will remain up, but, if you get a chance, please drive by. It is an impressive sight. Christ Lutheran opened 18 March 1959, at a time when this location would have seemed a far piece from downtown Greensboro. This display must have taken a long time to prepare. Someone worked really hard to keep the rows straight!

Happy Sunday!

Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program 2023

Six weeks have flown by as 21 Teachers from 20 countries have been in Greensboro at UNCG. Already experts and leaders in their fields, the teachers learned about American culture and also teaching techniques used in the American school systems. Each Fulbright scholar spent a week in a Guilford County school collaborating with partner teachers at the host schools. Participating schools were: Middle College at UNCG, Doris Henderson Newcomers School, Johnson Street Global Studies Elementary School, Northern Guilford High School, and Western Guilford High School.

Seated in the center are Dr. Maria Anastasiou (red jacket), Fulbright TEA Program Director and Associate Provost for International Programs at UNCG. To the right of Dr. Anastasiou is Dr. Jane He, Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education and Higher Education at UNCG. Both faculty members were closely involved in the Fulbright Program. Part of the beauty of a university and college community is the opportunity to gain a more global perspective through interaction with people from across the globe. If you have a chance to host an international scholar in your classroom or in your home, please do so, you won't regret it. You will gain as much as you give. Every indication is that Greensboro left a powerful impression on these 21 scholars that will last a lifetime

Happy Saturday!

Clay Thornton, Executive Director, Hirsch Wellness Center

Clay Thornton recently joined Hirsch Wellness Center as executive director, but he has worked in creative services for the last 35 years. He has a BA in fine arts and graphics with a minor in ceramics from UNC Chapel Hill. Above, he is photographed in front of some of the art currently being auctioned as a fundraiser for Hirsch Wellness.  See HERE.  for over 200 works of art to view and bid on. The bidding will culminate on Friday evening at 8:00 pm, after a gala evening with entertainment and fun to be had by all. All members of the community are invited to purchase a ticket for the gala ($50). 

All proceeds from the event help maintain the Healing Arts programming and classes at no cost to cancer patients. Hirsch Wellness serves not only people in treatment, but also survivors, caregivers, and medical staff. They offer at 35+ experiences a month (from yoga to painting classes) and serve approximately 300 people. If you want to see the artwork this week, you can stop by Gallery 1250 at Revolution Mill off of Yanceyville Street. The gallery is open from 3:00- 6:00 pm, which is how we met Clay. He was so personable, answered all of our questions, and gave us an impromptu tour. He will also be at the 15th annual gala this Friday as will Founder Louise Grape, who is a survivor of breast cancer twice.  Louise knows firsthand the importance of self-care and emotional support during and after cancer. Hirsch Wellness has been helping others on this journey since 2008.  There is so much wonderful art, all donated by accomplished artists in the community.

Chalkware Vignette by Lori Gray

Tis fair season. The Central Carolina Fair in Greensboro, a tradition since 1898, closed yesterday. The NC State Fair opens Thursday, October 12th in Raleigh. It will be full of exhibits and carnival rides and games. For years, chalkware was de rigeur at carnivals- from the early 1900s to the 1950s. Before stuffed animals were prizes, chalkware pieces were given to those whose carnival game skills merited a prize. The above collection is on display at Antique Market Place on Burnt Poplar Road. Lori Gray assembled the collection into this wonderful vignette. With the top piece with lights and the drapes, it is as if you are at a carnival and get to select your prize from the lot. However, the collection is being sold together, not piece by piece. 

Lori is a master vignette artist and nostalgia maker. She has a booth at the Antique Market Place and has a way of taking seemingly disparate items and pulling them together into a picture perfect scenes that evoke memories: Being in grandma's kitchen; hanging out in the living room of a dear family friend; sitting in a mod kitchen; preparing for a day of fun and games; and on, and on. We went this weekend just to visit this staging of her chalkware. Some lucky person will leave with a mighty fine collection. There is everything from the original kewpie dolls to Disney figures. We're wondering how many of these were won at the Central Carolina Fair. If you are local, head out and see this collection. The fair may have left town, but the collection is still here! Never again will you see so many pieces of chalkware in one place at one time! 

Happy Monday!

Celebration of Excellence

Guilford County Schools held a celebration of excellence at Ragsdale High School on Thursday night. The event, indeed, was celebratory and excellent. Schools banded together with  teachers and staff of their respective schools exuding camaraderie in every corner of the auditorium. The above photo is of Hunter Elementary teachers and staff marching in with a poster of support for their teacher of the year nominee, Jhonatan Marín Mesa. Señor Marín Mesa has an undergraduate degree from Universidad Pontifical Bolivariana in Colombia and an M.Ed. from Elon University. He teaches at Hunter Elementary, located at 1305 Merritt Drive,  and his students and colleagues love him. Of the five finalists for Teacher of the Year, he won and his school was jubilant.

The event was sponsored by the Guilford Education Alliance. There was a spirit parade and light refreshments as part of the pre-program. During the event, GCS administrators Greg Newlin and Kimberly Robertson served as Emcees and did so playing the role of Barbie and Ken, infusing a humor into the event. It was so nice seeing public school educators being recognized and enjoying an evening together. This is one of many examples of the school day not ending when the bell rings. We overheard the person saying behind us, "I'll bet we are the only district that celebrates like this." We hope those teachers are enjoying their weekend and that Mr. Marín Mesa is planning his speech since he is advancing to the regional teacher of the year competition.

Happy Saturday!

 

"Brace for Impact"

Sully Sullenberger was the first speaker in the new season of the Guilford College Bryan Series. This is the second year the Bryan Series has been held at  the Tanger Center downtown. Last night's event was well attended and the audience was engaged as Sully talked about the harrowing 300 seconds before guiding a disabled Airbus 320 into the Hudson River on January 15, 2009. Once he made the decision to make an emergency water landing, he had to decide what to tell the 155 people on the plane. He said he knew passengers and crew needed to hear from the Captain and he needed to sound calm and confident. He chose his words carefully, telling everyone to "Brace for impact." 

He also talked about his career path, what it takes to be a pilot, and the importance of students taking civics classes and understanding the importance of acting for the good of others, not just ourselves. He also talked about post event and the many hours of interviews related to the event. He talked about the initial toll it took on his sleep, not being able to sleep for more than 45 minutes at a time the first few days. Then, at age 57, he said his blood pressure was around 108/50, but after the event, it soared to 150/100- likening the situation to PTSD. One tactic Sully used for working through these after effects was writing about the event. He has retired from U.S. Airways and now focuses on public speaking, advocating for policies that make flying as safe as possible, and writing. Last night, he fielded questions from the audience, including from the woman who had been in seat 2C that day. 

The theme for the 2023-2024 Bryan Series is Heroes in our Midst. Indeed, Chesley Burnett "Sully" Sullenberger III was a great beginning to this year's series.

Happy Friday!

Meet Watts @ Revolution Cycles

Today's photo features Watts Dixon, owner of Revolution Cycles, located at 1907 Spring Garden Street. Watts, originally from Atlanta, came to Greensboro to attend college. However, his passion for bicycling and working at Friendly Bikes helped hone his career path, as he bought the business in 2007. Seven years later, he moved the shop and changed the name.  Once at the current Spring Garden Street location, Watts added beer on draft and in cans to the shop- in addition to selling bikes and merchandise and making repairs.*  Stop by and partake on any day of the week, but especially at the Shop Social gathering every Friday, when people drop in and share their biking plans for the weekend.

This independent bike shop is the go-to place locally for those interested in bike-packing adventures, touring, biking on gravel, and mountain biking. If you need a bag for your bike or any specialty item, if he doesn't have it in stock, Watts knows exactly where to get it. Biking is such a great way to get from Point A to Point B while getting exercise and reducing your carbon footprint. Once you start, it becomes a lifestyle. Just ask Watts!

Happy Wednesday!

 

*reference and more information HERE.

Randy Condor Williams

Randy Condor Williams is a talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist currently living in Greensboro. On his website, he shares with fans that he was raised "near one of the world's largest military installations during the height of the drug war", but doesn't tell us where.  His writing is soulful, intellectual and a bit subversive. He has a solo album entitled "Bonnie Doone."

We first heard Randy at the Corner Farmers Market this past Saturday morning. We hope to have an opportunity to hear him again at upcoming markets. If you notice, he is wearing a Folk Festival t-shirt. We're pretty sure he will be around the NC Folk Festival 2023, which starts tomorrow. Greensboro has a lot of talented musicians and it is important to show them support. Attending and clapping go a long way in inspiring  musicians to keep going. We will have plenty of great musicians to support this weekend. The NC Folk Festival, downtown, is free; leaving some extra funds to toss in buckets of performers. See the lineup of performers HERE.

Happy Thursday.

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

Once Labor Day is over, mentally we transition to fall, a lovely season in Greensboro. We also know it is time for the North Carolina Folk Festival. The festival kicks off on Wednesday evening with a special concert, "Songs of Hope and Justice"  at 7:30 pm at The Carolina Theatre. Singer-songwriter Laurelyn Dossett will host an accomplished group of folk musicians. The next events will be on Friday evening, beginning at 5:00 pm (see complete schedule HERE). The music is as varied and diverse as the people of Greensboro; indeed, there is something for all tastes of fold music. It is a good opportunity to listen to and learn about new genres of music. 

The above photo features Larry Bellorín. He will perform this year with Joe Troop. They describe their music as Venezuelan Appalachian Fusion.  Larry is a legend of llanera music. Joe is a Grammy-nominated bluegrass and old-time musician. Together, the sound of these singer-songwriting multi-instrumentalists is unique and incredible. They are performing twice, on Friday at 9:00 pm and Sunday at 3:30 pm. Larry and Joe both live in North Carolina; so, when you fall in love with their music, you will have opportunities to hear them again. Our North Carolina Folk Festival is so special, the event is well organized, the footprint from stages to food trucks to arts and crafts exhibits (to port-a-potties)  is always well planned.

From 2015-2017, the National Folk Festival was in Greensboro, giving our community the chance to learn from the best how to put on a music festival. When the National Folk Festival transitioned to the next city to help learn the ropes, Greensboro's event converted to the North Carolina Folk Festival We owe it to the performers to show them that our city supports the performing arts. Please encourage your folk music loving friends far and wide to come to Greensboro from the 8th-10th. Hope to see you there, too. The Friday-Sunday performances are FREE. People are encouraged to donate if they are able. Bring your change and bills. There will also be ways to donate through cash apps.

Happy Tuesday!

Providence Farm at Greensboro Farmers Curb Market

Today's feature is Joy and Darrell of Providence Farm. They're at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville Street today and every Saturday. They bring products fresh from the farm and are known for their fresh chicken and pork. The chickens are free range and the pigs roam around the woods, foraging to their hearts content. We especially love their whole chickens. Once you have eaten one of their chickens, you'll have trouble going back to grocery store products. 

As you can see from the above display, Joy also sells her yarn. The yarn comes from the sheep they raise, with the name of the sheep the yarn originated from on the packaging! They also have goat milk soap. You never quite know what else they will bring. For example, Joy knits hats with holes in the top so that you can pull through a ponytail- very practical for a farmer with long hair. From time to time, Joy and Darrell open their farm for special events or for their own farmers market. Located in the eastern end of the county, the farm has been in the Cobb family for over 200 years. Their farming practices are admirable. Stop by and say hello to this fabulous duo. When you shop local the farm to fork concept is easy to achieve.

Happy Saturday! 

 

Goat Yoga with Cathy Yonaitis

You just never know what you are going to see at a farmers market. This past Saturday at the Corner Farmers Market, on 2200 Market Street, we happened upon Yoga Instructor Cathy Yonaitis and her goats. Trained in occupational therapy, Cathy incorporates an occupational therapy approach with yoga techniques- ever mindful of movement science and each student's need . Her business is called "Unite Us Yoga."

Cathy has a studio at her house in the Summerfield area. Cathy is so creative, offering sessions like yoga and food. You order food and practice yoga with Cathy while her husband is cooking food that is ready for you to take home after class. At Unite Us Yoga, there are so many options for all levels and needed areas of focus; group, individual, and private group lessons; in-person and online options. If you are at the Corner Market, stop by to talk to Cathy and you will feel her positive energy. Don't forget to pet a goat while you are there.

Happy Tuesday!

Woodworker Ken Collins

Some houses absolutely reflect the personalities of the owner. Such is the case of this artist at 832 Glenwood Avenue in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. Ken Collins has his "shingle" displayed at his driveway announcing that he is a woodworker. However, Ken is so much more.  As you can see from the art around the yard, Ken is quite the metalworker and upcycler, too. It is hard to see in the photo, but the metal fan blade flowers have glass telephone insulators as their centers.

Ken's studio is behind his house and it seems every few years when we drive by the artwork has changed. Also, we have seen his work available at ReAligned Antique Store at 115 East Lewis Street, downtown. We don't really know him personally, but years ago, Ken repaired and rewired a lamp for us and did a fabulous job. It is so meaningful to meet local, creative people. We actually featured him in person eight years ago, and hope to have a chance to see more of his artwork.

If you look at your home, what does it say about your? We're always on the lookout for great people and places to feature. Let us know.

Happy Thursday (the new Friday)!

Jayne Butler, Librarian and Actor

Today, we're featuring library assistant extraordinaire, Jayne Butler, who works at the Kathleen Clay Edwards Family Branch of the Greensboro City Library. Yesterday, we were having technical difficulties with an online library account and Jayne took about an hour helping us get everything sorted out. She has to be the most patient person on earth. Jayne, originally from New Jersey, moved to North Carolina to attend North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT). She graduated  in 1998 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Professional Theatre (Acting). Among her many roles, she performed in the Lion King for the National Broadway Tour.  Also, she performed in Florida in Walt Disney Resort's Festival of the Lion King. In 2022, she was invited by NCAT to be the featured lead in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.

Jayne, whose stage name is Jayne Trinette, sings, acts, dances, and does it all.*  She is the kind of person who can have that booming stage presence and three octave  voice,  like she needed as Ma Rainey, yet she can be soft spoken and gentle when helping someone in the library. We asked Jayne how she developed so much patience and she said, "Rejection. In acting, you have to be patient and know your day will come."   While COVID created a bump in the road, let's hope Jayne's next big role is around the corner, and that every librarian brings to the job Jayne's patience and enthusiasm.

Happy Wednesday!

 

*Follow Jayne on Instagram @ jaynesings

Autumn Will Be Here Before We Know It!

While this was taken on the 4th of July, it is one of our favorite photos of Summer 2023 in Greensboro. It was taken in front of the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. The above photo shows people out at a festival enjoying the summer with family and friends. The sun was shining brightly.

We are hearing people saying they wish fall would hurry up and get here. Fall will be here in 33 more days, just over a month. This is the last week of vacation for Guilford County Schools students (on a traditional calendar) as school resumes on Monday, August 28th. After the start of school comes Labor Day, and then the National Folk Festival, and then fall. Let's not rush our days away.

Happy Monday!

Model A Car at Ozzie's

While we were at Ozzie's Ice Cream on Old Battleground Road recently, we ran into the Silers. Mr. Siler was standing in front of his 1931 Model A Ford. The vehicle is absolutely beautiful inside and out. While almost everything is restored to authentic fidelity, it does have air conditioning. An admirer of the vehicle and friend of Mr Siler said that he can fix anything. This summer, the car had the adventure of a lifetime. The Silers drove it to a show in Hamilton Ohio, 479 miles and it drove just fine up at cruising speed.

Mr. Siler recommended the ice cream highly. We hope to see him again there, sometime when he drives down from Bethany. Maybe he will even bring another vintage car. Greensboro has a lot of vintage car aficionados, as well as organized car shows. Then, there are the people who just show up with their vehicles and, like Mr. Siler, most are proud of their vehicles and eager to answer any question you may have.

Happy Saturday! 

Downtown Free Hopper Trolley

The Free Hopper Trolley is such a fabulous service for Downtown Greensboro. It has been up and running for about four weeks now and is super convenient. It runs the length of Elm Street from Fisher Street in the north to Carolyn Coleman Way, just south of East Gate City Boulevard. There are four trolleys running from 12 noon- 12 midnight from Thursday to Saturday and from 12 noon- 10 pm on Sunday. When we were riding yesterday, we had the good fortune to ride with Lorraine. She has been a public bus driver for over 30 years, with much of her career in New York City and Boston. She is so personable and so careful.

The only thing the trolley needs is passengers. Lorraine said that it gets really busy when there are events downtown, like baseball games or First Friday. People who live in or near downtown report really finding it convenient. Let's hope it catches on. While the drivers will try to stop if they can do so safely, look for the round Hopper Trolley signs. The stop at Hamburger Square is convenient to Natty Greenes. The stop at North Eugene/Smith Street is convenient to the baseball stadium. Today would be a great day to try the Free Hopper Trolley. If you see Lorraine, thank her for her service!

Happy Friday!

Crosswalk Tamra Hunt

Recently, we ran across this crosswalk in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. It is located on Neal Street at the intersection with Haywood, very near Gate City Boulevard. To help you orient to the location, in the upper right hand corner of the photo you can see the UNCG's Kaplan Recreation Center. The artist is Tamra Hunt, who is a Greensboro based artist and member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. This crosswalk is part of Creative Greensboro's Neighborhood Art Program. Hunt has spearheaded performance and visual arts programs in the Glenwood neighborhood, helping people learn about indigenous people in the community. 

If. you are interested, read the City of Greensboro's page (HERE)  where Tamra shares the meaning of each piece of the above artwork. If you drive to Glenwood to see this artwork, also drive by the Lonnie Revels Greenway (see HERE) another place of recognition of a member of the Lumbee Tribe.

Jenna Rice Art, LLC

Jenna Rice is a full-time artist based in Greensboro. We met up with her earlier this summer when she was painting a mural on the back of Red Cinema in Midtown. We noticed her painting while on a group bike ride and circled back around to interview her. Jenna was super nice and took time to meet with us, even though it was late in the day and she was in the middle of painting.  Originally from New England, she obtained a BA in Studio Art in 2012 from Florida Southern College.

Jenna's local murals mostly feature people, real or pop culture. It wasn't until we were preparing this post that we realized Jenna also did the mural inside the downtown dining room at Cheesecakes by Alex at 315 South Elm.

Happy last day of July! Tomorrow is August!

Jim Gallucci's Millennium Gate Close Up

Jim Gallucci's Millennium Gate, located in the 200 block of South Greene Street,  was dedicated on December 30, 2000. When we featured the 20' tall gate on Greensboro Daily Photo in 2016 (see HERE), we featured the whole gate. Earlier in the summer, we spent quite a bit of time at Governmental Plaza, especially focusing on the individual components of the gate. Seventeen artists were involved in creating the 105 icons on the gate and spanning 1,000 years of history. These icons were selected by the Greensboro Community.*

Because our public library system does so much for the Greensboro community, we honed in on the section of the gate showcasing the Greensboro Public Library. Look at that child reading a book and how the "cut out" parts of the book open up to reveal the world at the child's fingertips. And then there are the children at the bottom with doors opening for them. All of this opportunity is made possible thanks to a library card, and we are seeing it thanks to the artist who created it and Jim Gallucci who sculpted it out of galvanized steel and silicon bronze!

*Reference and see more details, here.

Treva at cycles de ORO

Tuesday is the day for the group bicycle ride that leaves from Cycles de Oro on Hill Street at 6:30 pm. It is a slower paced ride where someone rides in the back to make sure that everyone makes it through the ride. Above, is Treva, one of the store employees at Cycles de Oro. Treva usually rides on the rides and is so fun to talk to. When we first met her, she had just purchased a new bicycle and took it on an inaugural ride on the Tuesday ride. Treva also helped us find the perfect helmet and lighting system so that we could ride more safely. If you want to find a bike store and a person who will help you on exactly the level needed, find Treva at Cycles. 

While riding with her, we learned that during Covid, she retired from nursing, left her home at the North Carolina coast, and bicycled all the way across country to Oregon. Can you imagine? Coast to coast!. She has so many adventures and memories from that cycling adventure. We asked about her route and she said there were two states she avoided, due to the mountains, West Virginia and Colorado. Her smile in this photo is insight to her sunny disposition. 

Gary Jobe, Custom Home Builder

We have never had the good fortune to meet Gary Jobe, one of Greensboro's premier custom home builders. However, we have seen many of the homes he has built. He is a third generation custom home builder and has had a tradition of excellence since 1972. After five decades, he is retiring. While the name, Gary Jobe Builder will remain in place, Todd Powely is now President of the company. 

While out bicycling a few weeks ago, we stopped at Latham Park for a water break and noticed this office. How impressive that a person who has one of the most recognizable names in construction in the area has a humble office with no fancy fanfare. After all, we're wondering just how much time he actually spends in the office. We imagine he is out on the job or out overseeing that work is being done correctly. One very memorable complex that he built is on Stanley Huff Road. Apparently, the owners even have a helicopter pad on the property. To be sure, the next time we undertake an A-Z people of Greensboro, we'll try for "J" is for "Jobe"!

Bennett College and Middle College at UNCG Faculty Visiting Morocco

Bennett College received a Fulbright-Hays grant to study Women and Democracy in Morocco. Currently, six Bennett faculty, five Middle College at UNCG teachers and their principal are in Morocco conducting research. The above photo was taken in the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca on July 8th at the beginning of their tour. Dr. Anne Hayes, Executive Director of Global & Interdisciplinary Studies at Bennett College  (fourth from right) and Sofyan Essarraoui, former Arabic Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) at Bennett College (seated), have put together a very special itinerary.  Between July 6th-August 4th, the group is traveling to eight different cities in Morocco in order to experience the diversity of culture and terrain in the country. Along the way, they are participating in meetings with several Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and interviewing Moroccans about contemporary issues.

Since 2009, several Moroccan Fulbright FLTAs have taught Arabic at Bennett College, which has created a special connection between Bennett College and Morocco. This connection will continue in August, when an FLTA from Rabat arrives to teach Arabic at Bennett and to take classes. We are so lucky to have this HBCU, with so much civic and global engagement, in Greensboro. Writing the grant for this study experience and including public school teachers and their administrator in the opportunity is just one example of the fine things happening at this global-minded institution at the corner of East Washington and Bennett Streets.

Madelyn Greco

The above photo is of local body painting artist Madelyn Greco. She and Scott Fray are Living Brush Bodypainting. They are world champion body painting artists. Madelyn is so talented, people seek her services far and wide. While she lives in Reidsville, NC, she is frequently in Greensboro and can always be counted on to help with the Summer Solstice event. When we caught up with her at Summer Solstice 2023, she had been busily painting the faces of volunteers. She also marched in one of the parades. Her Facebook quote states:  "Art is the joy of my life, Joy is the life of my art, Life is the art of my joy." She is Co-owner of Chameleon Colors USA and Competition Director at Jan Tana Bodypainting Revolution. 

No matter where you are in the world, if you see a body painting event and you ask if they know Madelyn Greco, rest assured, they will. Madelyn is another fine example of the many talented people we have in the Greensboro area.

Uncle Sam on South Elm Street

Uncle Sam is alive and well on South Elm Street. This photo was taken at the Fun Fourth Festival, but we wanted to make sure it got posted.  Uncle Sam was gregarious and did a great job engaging with the crowd. Downtown is so much fun when there are people out and about. There is so much to do this weekend. We hope you are taking advantage of all the options. There is an Eastern Music Festival event at 4pm today in Dana Auditorium on the Guilford College Campus. MUSEP tomorrow evening is at Gateway Gardens on East Gate City Boulevard. It is the 44th season of this Greensboro Tradition. See Details HERE. 

Have a Happy Saturday!

The Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival

The Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival was held this past weekend, after having been delayed by a week due to possible bad weather last weekend. While the weather was a bit threatening this past weekend, it rained around Greensboro, but not actually on the festival. The organizers had to scramble and find new vendors and performers because many couldn't reschedule. However, at the end of the day, it was a successful event and those who attended seemed satisfied. To our knowledge, there aren't summer solstice festivals of this caliber in other North Carolina cities. Do you know of any?

We selected the photo of the above four women to share today because they really captured the essence of the festival. It is not just about performers, but also about what the attendees bring to the event. All four came dressed as if they were performing in Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." They were having so much fun together. We owe a big thank you to the people who put on the festival, including vendors, performers, and attendees. 

Tomorrow's event "Fun Fourth" downtown will also have a dress-up component. You are encouraged to wear your boldest patriotic and red, white, and blue outfits. It is always fun to see what people wear. Of course at least one Uncle Sam will be in attendance. The race starts at 7:30 am and the other events are from 1-6pm. See you there! If someone asks to take your photo, ask "Are you with Greensboro Daily Photo." Indeed, it could be us !

Happy Monday!

The Unbridled Joy of a Child

Sometimes our photos are firmly grounded in the people, places, and events of Greensboro. Sometimes, the photos are taken in Greensboro, but technically, could have been taken anywhere. Today's photo (the latter example)  was captured in the Target parking lot in Jefferson Village. A dad and his daughter went to Target and from the moment they got out of the car until they entered the building, they were on the great, joyful, imaginary plane ride. The dad's arms are extended in full flight mode, the little one's wings had more movement. Can you see the bounce in her step? Their conversation exuded imagination in full force. 

Sometimes, we wish for big vacations in distant places. However, in the eyes of a child, a fun round of imagination and creativity- with an adult who makes you feel loved and secure- is all it takes to build positive memories that will last a lifetime. Sometimes, when children go on errands with adults, they feel the stress of the adults. As we enter the Fourth of July week, let us all approach the upcoming days with the unbridled joy of a child. Tomorrow is the Solstice Festival in the Arboretum and this Tuesday is Fun Fourth, downtown. As we greet one another at these wonderful community events, let's do so jubilantly. If you see the people who have worked tirelessly to make these events happen, please thank them for their hard work.

Happy Friday... preparing for takeoff!

Preservation Greensboro Tours

Last night, we took one of Preservation Greensboro's walking tours of downtown Greensboro. The theme was the historical equity in Greensboro. We were so lucky to have Benjamin Briggs lead the tour. Benjamin is the executive director of Preservation Greensboro and he can answer just about any question about the history and architecture of our city. There are so many examples of people and places of Greensboro that contributed our community being equitable and acceptable. Benjamin started by explaining how the Quakers' believe that all are equal in God's eyes. This perspective was very forward thinking for the 1700s. Quakers were supportive of the Underground Railroad  (1810- 1850).  Benjamin mentioned the role of Greensboro's institutions of higher education, providing opportunities for marginalized people. We have two HBCUs; two women's colleges. Bennett remains a school for females; UNCG is now integrated. We learned that Moses and Caesar Cone relocated to Greensboro in the 1890's because they felt our community was more open to the Jewish faith than other cities in North Carolina. We learned that the brutalist architecture of Governmental Plaza was designed by an Argentine architect, Eduardo Catalano and that after a 20 year effort it is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Benjamin even touched on the trials, tribulations, progressive advances made, and current resources for the LGBTQ community. 

Preservation Greensboro's walking tours are free and open to the public. They have many interesting themes. In spite of the drizzle, we had a dozen participants last night. Some people were from Greensboros, including a woman retired from Wrangler. There were participants from Winston-Salem. Four participants were from France. What a great way to spend the summer solstice, even though it was drizzly and in the 60ºs.

Happy Thursday!

Bryan Bielanski, Played at Common Grounds Last Night.

Last night, acoustic-rock, singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski performed at Common Grounds Coffee Shop in Lindley Park. Bryan is from Charlotte, North Carolina, but has been on tour for the last nine years;  so, chances are you are more likely to find him elsewhere than at at home. His list of places where he has performed can just about fill a page. He has performed all over the world, on several continents and throughout the United States. Bryan's music is upbeat and many of his original songs have references to pop culture. Three of his original songs, early in last night's set, were "I'm your Super Mario,"  "Star Wars Marathon," and "Elf Girlfriend."  As we sat there watching and listening to Bryan, we couldn't help but notice that he resembles Leonardo DiCaprio who is in the painting behind Bryan, sipping and listening.

After playing at Common Grounds at 7:00 pm, Bryan was headed to Chapel Hill to perform. Today, he will be in Wilmington, DE. We're so glad the we serendipitously happened to be at Common Grounds when Bryan  arrived. Summers are like that is Greensboro. You just never know when you are going to get to hear some really great, live music- and often for free.

If you are headed out somewhere tonight, tip your musicians, your baristas, and anyone else who serves and entertains. Can you believe Common Grounds at 602 South Elam Avenue has been open for ten years now? Something about a coffee shop makes a neighborhood feel like home. Something a about live music makes an evening memorable.

Happy Thursday!

First Friday June 2nd, 2023

Can you believe May has come and gone? It is already time for the June First Friday! The above photo was taken on First Friday in May at LeBauer Park. The photo features Catena Bergevin, who is the new executive director for Reconsidered Goods, the Creative Reuse Center on Spring Garden Street- very near Market Street. How wonderful that Catena is with RG now, as she has considerable experience with art and non-profits. She hit the ground running at RG, not only doing required administrative work, but filling in wherever needed. She is committed to enhancing RG's community involvement, as evidenced by her working First Friday and many other events scheduled through the summer. She was on the RG board before becoming executive director, so she is already very knowledgeable about the goals and needs of RG.

Beside Catena in today's photo is Bobby Craddock,  another local artist and creative soul who loves to help out wherever needed. I believe Bobby and Catena met when he was working on his "Scarves for Warmth" project and when he was making fabric eyeglass cases and Catena helped sew them. 

If you are looking for something to do this afternoon, from 12:00 noon- 3:00 pm, RG is hosting what they are calling "Stitch and B*tch", a chance for fiber artists to gather and work on their projects and connect with other creative types. The suggested donation is $5. This is an example of RG and Catina's commitment to bringing people together and providing a 3rd space- centered around arts and crafts and creative reuse. We're not sure if Bobby or Catena will be at Stitch and B*tch, but we do know you will be welcome. Plus, you will still have time to head to First Friday downtown.

Happy First Friday!

National Poppy Day 2023

Today is National Poppy Day. In the United States, the red poppy  has been nationally recognized as a symbol honoring those who served and died for our country in war. On Sept. 27, 1920, the poppy became the official flower of the American Legion; in 1924, poppy distribution became their national program. In Greensboro, there are two American Legion posts. One is located at 1206 American Legion Street in northeast Greensboro. Post 53 is located at 529 Ridge Creek, near I-40 and Highway 220 in the southern part of the city. Perhaps the local American Legion, or the VFW will be selling poppies today.

In preparation for National Poppy Day, we looked for poppies to photograph in Greensboro. We had already photographed the beautiful field of poppies across from Lindley Elementary School, so were on the hunt for another source. Our friend, local businesswoman Kit Rodenbough, mentioned how much she is enjoying her poppies this year. We asked to photograph the poppies in her garden. Kit lives in the neighborhood between Irving Park and Kick Back Jack's and has a lovely backyard garden. When we arrived, she mentioned she had recently purchased the house from Julie Dameron, a retired nurse who recently moved to Friends Home West. We not only recognized the garden Julie planted, but also the garage room where Julie had her art studio. She is an accomplished painter, often taking inspiration from her garden. Also, she always kept bouquets of fresh flowers from this very garden. Julie left behind not only her poppies, but also a lovely rose garden. However, Julie is cultivating a rose garden at Friends Home West. Today, she can now see that the lovely poppies at her previous home are bringing joy to Kit. Such is the nature of gardening; an initial investment of time and effort yields benefits that can last for generations. If you see Kit or Julie, compliment them on their poppies.

Today, when people are wearing a red poppy on their lapel,  you will know the story. Ask them if their poppy is from the garden of Kit and Julie, the garden across from Lindley Elementary School, or from a garden we need to know about so we can photograph it for next year! If someone approaches you to purchase a poppy for your lapel,  you will know the backstory.

Finally, we have a dear friend and reader who requested we share the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae. This is the poem that inspired the use of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Our friend remembers having to memorize the poem in 6th grade.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

    That mark our place; and in the sky

    The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

    Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

        In Flanders fields.

 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

    The torch; be yours to hold it high.

    If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

        In Flanders fields.

True Family Home; 507 Chapman Street- Gone, But Not Forgotten!

As of yesterday afternoon, just before 5:00 pm, this was all that was left of the little blue house on Chapman Street, the place where Jack True made holidays come to life for generations of Greensboro's children.*  His years of playing Santa Claus on the porch were epic. Now, with only signs of the foundation remaining, you can see that this house had a tiny, tiny footprint. Built in 1935, it had two bedrooms and one bathroom. According to Zillow, the lot is .19 of an acre and it sold on 2/23/23 for $79,000. Unless it was rezoned or additional property acquired, it will accommodate a single family dwelling of 3,529 square feet.

This is a very desirable neighborhood between Lindley Park, Sunset Hills, and UNCG. It will be interesting to see what gets built. There are those breathing a sigh of relief that the house with only a wood stove for a heat source and a leaky, tarped roof is gone. A new structure will serve to improve this corner of the neighborhood. However, there are those who know that sometimes houses with the tiniest of footprints are home to people with the biggest hearts. Such was the case at 507 Chapman Street.

* see here, a Greensboro Daily Photo of the house when it was still standing.

Greensboro Bound Literary Festival

The Greensboro Bound Literary Festival has come and gone, but oh what a wonderful festival it was and we look forward to having it return to Greensboro next spring. The festival is always a combination of North Carolina authors, as well as authors from across the United States. This year, there were 55 authors participating. Presenters were as local as the poet laureates from 14 Guilford County high schools.

The above photo features the three co-presenters from the "This Is Your Brain On Poetry" session at Scuppernong Books on Saturday afternoon. They are, from left to right, Filipino-American poet and author Janine Joseph (Stillwater, OK), Maureen Sherbondy (Raleigh, NC), and Crystal Simone Smith (Durham, NC). Topics of their writing often include issues related to social justice. We forgot to ask the trio how they came together for their session, but they seemed to be a perfect fit.

Finally, it is always fun to see the worker bees, behind the scene making our festivals run seamlessly. We saw Lynn Witherspoon working logistics, dashing around on a golf cart, probably going between the literary festival and the blues festival. 

Sheldon Herman, Bicyclist and Volunteer Extraordinaire

As we continue our posts about biking in Greensboro during National Bike Month, we would be remiss if we did not feature Sheldon Herman. Sheldon was co-owner and business manager for Lotus Center on Lawndale Drive. In retirement, Sheldon has not slowed down in the least. He works tirelessly with the bike community to get people riding and to make cycling safer. He also helps get bikes for people who have no means of transportation to work. In 2021, Fox News featured Sheldon's efforts to make bikes available to Afghan refugees, others in need, and children who need to experience the joy of riding a bike  (read more here). Bikesboro, a local biking network and group of volunteers, donated more than 400 bikes to adults and children. Through the Bikesboro group, you can become part of a great biking community.  Sheldon is also one of the founders of the bicycle shop in Barber Park, which is where the above photo was taken.

The bicycle shop in Barber Park is located in an older brick building at the bottom of the hill, just beyond the enclosed sports complex. There, people bring bikes to donate, volunteers come to learn to repair bikes and get them road ready. While the bike shop at Barber Park has been open for a while now, they have started a new initiative: The "Bike Library." Every Sunday from 1:00pm- 4:00 pm, people can check out bicycles to ride around the park. The volunteers make sure the bike is the right size and even give lessons for those who have not yet learned to ride or who need a refresher. The grand opening of the "Bike Library" will be this Sunday, May 21st from 1:00pm- 4:00 pm. The opportunity borrow a bike is free! A heartfelt thank you goes out to Sheldon and all of the other volunteers. See you at Barber Park on Sunday!

Happy Friday!

Jimmie I. Barber

Jimmie I. Barber * served the Greensboro City Council for twelve years, from 1969- 1981, which, at the time made him the longest serving black member in Greensboro. Barber Park, located between East Gate City Boulevard and Florida Street, was dedicated, renamed Barber Park, in 1989. It had first been known as Southeast Park. 

The sculptor of the above bust of Mr. Barber is Maria J. Kirby-Smith who finished she sculpture in 1990.  The position of the extended hand, ready for a handshakes, suggests community engagement, the gesture of a gentleman; something that likely helped keep Mr. Barber in office for so many years. According to the above plaque, he was the "people's man" who "belonged to all the people." Contributions to this bronze bust were made by the Greensboro Jaycees, Las Amigas, and The City of Greensboro. The monument is located near the sports building at the bottom of the hill. With the landscaping around it, it is easier to find while walking or on a bicycle. Challenge yourself to find it the next time you are at Barber Park.

Happy Tuesday!

 

• See Mr. Barber's photo, here.
• Learn more about Greensboro's parks in this Our State Magazine article from June 2022.

Bruce Molsky performs Presbyterian Church of the Covenant

The Presbyterian Church of the Covenant is located at 501 South Mendenhall Street. Designed by Greensboro Architect. Harry Barton, the Church of the Covenant was built in 1914 to replace a church that was built in 1906. Have you ever noticed that it has symmetrical facades on Walker Avenue and Mendenhall Street? The above photo features the sanctuary. It is built on the corner of the lot and the shape actually adds to the acoustics of the space. The above photo was taken from the balcony this past Friday when Bruce Molsky was performing.

Bruce teaches in the American Roots Program at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and he is one talented musician. He plays guitar, banjo, and fiddle. His playing style is influenced by Tommy Jarrell. When Bruce plays the fiddle and sings at the same time, it is hard to distinguish sometimes if he is singing or if the violin is playing a drone note. Bruce is very personable and had just the right amount of telling the back story to a tune or song and playing. Bruce also held a fiddle and banjo workshop on Saturday, in the above photo. If you ever get a chance to pray, meditate, or hear a concert in the Church of the Covenant, you should take advantage of it. You would be in for a treat.

Happy Sunday!

Lisa Rawlings, Local Author

The above photo features Lisa Rawlings, who has recently published a book about her childhood called, "One Girl's Story." Lisa was on hand at at Just Be for First Friday in May to read from and promote her book. We saw her yesterday when she was working at Just Be for her daughter Kathryn, who owns this lovely gift shop at Hamburger Square. Lisa was born into a Navy family in Saigon, Vietnam and her dad's career took the family to many places around the world. However, she considers Meridian, Mississippi to be her hometown. The book is a collection of short stories. Lisa was prompted to write down these memories of her childhood after losing her sister, also her best friend, to an aneurism. Lisa teaches 5th grade at Caldwell Academy and wrote a book that she felt would appeal to her students. On the back cover, she encourages children, about her students' age, to read the book and compare how much their life is like hers and to see what aspects of her life were unique.

Lisa loves to read, write, teach, and spend time outdoors. She currently has a book series she wants to write;  her idea is too good to share at this point. Once she writes and publishes the first book in the series, we think it will take off. Meanwhile, if you want a copy of "One Girl's Story,"  you can get it at Just Be, or log on to her Instagram site lisa_rawlings and get details there. When asked what she likes about Greensboro, Lisa says she loves the location, given she can easily get to the beach or the mountains. Hopefully, once the school year ends, she'll have time to vacation somewhere in North Carolina and start that book series.

Happy Saturday!