Greensboro Daily Photo

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!

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!

 

Lao Restaurant

Hiding behind the yellow leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree is Lao Restaurant and Bar. This is the location that formerly housed Crafted Art of the Taco (219-A South Elm Street). It is located between Blue Denim and Pizzeria Italiano, both very good restaurants. The space occupied by Lao is long and skinny; especially cozy this time of year when we want to be inside and in the company of others. It reminds us of independent restaurants in New York City- where street-front space is at a premium.

The owners are Laotian American and  also have the Simply Thai restaurants in Jamestown and Elon. Laotian food is similar to Thai food as the countries share a border. Sticky rice and chili paste dipping sauce are two popular items on the menu. They have large and small plates and a variety of meat and vegetarian options. You can pick you spice level mild/medium/hot. We're wondering if "Lao hot" is as spicy as "Thai hot."  Wouldn't it be fun to eat at at every restaurant in downtown Greensboro. We just might head down there today!

Happy Thursday!

Eugene Street Parking Deck

This is a night view of the Eugene Street Parking Deck. It opened in June 2021 at the corner of Eugene and Bellemeade Street. According to the Greensboro News and Record, it is the first downtown parking deck in 30 years. The deck has an electric vehicle charging station and parking is available by the hour or the month.

The above photo was taken recently after an event at Tanger Center. We were talking a woman to her car. She was from out of town and was having trouble finding her car. Thanks to helping her, we realized that this parking deck is due west, and within sight of Tanger and beside the baseball stadium. We were struck by the attractiveness of and lighting in the parking deck. It fills a very real need for more parking downtown. We love the fact that the business "Local Honey" is peeking out from the right side of the photo. We encourage you to explore downtown.

Happy Wednesday!

Fall Day Downtown at Governmental Plaza

This past Saturday (Veterans Day), the temperature ranged from a low of 45º to a high of 57º. During one of the warmer hours,this bumble bee was working hard to get poles from this coneflower. Bumblebees are active above 40º and on foggy, rainy, and cloudy days. Whereas honeybees like it to be at least 60º and sunny. So, conditions were perfect for bumblebees on Saturday. Still, we only saw one, out of all the coneflowers on Green Street.

These coneflowers on Greene Street still look lovely. Stop by for a visit if you are downtown. This photo was taken across the street from Governmental Plaza, after the Veterans Day Parade. There are so many pods that have gone to seed there. They are just waiting to be planted next year. The color options on Greene are so beautiful- especially this magenta pink. Color is so fleeting in nature this time of year, we take it anywhere we can get it. Do know, however, these vibrant colors are the result of humans creating hybrids by humans pollinating the plants and vegetative propagation. Often, they revert back to their original color.

Happy Thursday!

Northeast High School Marching Band

The above photo features the drum major and the Northeast High School marching band at the Veterans Day Parade this past Saturday. The band sounded great and put on quite a performance dancing and marching. Veterans and other parade attendees seemed to really enjoyed their performance. They were appreciated by parade goers. According to their website, the director of bands is Ms. Tyrissa Swilley. 

If you missed the Veterans Day Parade, your next big opportunity in Greensboro will be the Winter Holiday/Christmas Parade on December 2nd from 12 noon-2:00 pm. This parade has been a Greensboro tradition for almost 40 years. In addition to bands and floats, there will be some big balloons. The night before, on Friday, December 1st, the Festival of Lights will be held downtown. This is another big Greensboro tradition and time for making memories with family and friends. At the First Friday festival, performances start in Center City Park at 5:30 pm and the lighting of the tree happens promptly at 6:56 pm and the evening concludes at 9:00 pm. So, mark your calendars now, as this time of year starts getting really busy. In the meantime...

Happy Monday, a week and a half until Thanksgiving!

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

Yokai, Formely Custom Care Dry Cleaners

501 North Greene Street at Paisley Street has a very new profile. Formerly, this lot was the home of Custom Care Dry Cleaners. Now, it is Yokai, They serve ramen, Korean fried chicken, small plates with an Asian flair (like edamame, rice cakes, and savory waffles). They also have an extensive cocktail and beer menu. With the Tanger Center and all of the new downtown housing options, people have been wanting more restaurant options in the north end of downtown Greensboro. There is indoor and outdoor seating. It is owned by Tal Blevins who also owns Machete Restaurant downtown. The owner had a chance to get to know what Greensboro restaurant aficionados like in a restaurant before opening Yokai. 

This izakaya-inspired establishment looks nice by day, but with pops of neon lighting, Yokai looks especially inviting at night. Izakaya is the Japanese version of what the Spaniards call tapas. The goal it to be able to drink and nibble at the same time. The food serves as a point of conversation. Yokai celebrated its grand opening on September 12th. It has already been open a month! Walk by and have a look, or even try it out if you are downtown for the Veteran's Day Parade today. 

Happy Veterans Day!

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!

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!. 

Meet Joann, Annette, Nancy, and Sara from Artstock 2023

ArtStock 2023 was fabulous. The creativity of the artists was impressive. Fifty-seven artists participated; some were in their own, in-home studios. Other banded together in more public spaces. Such was the case with the above quartet. They were set up in the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street. Featured from left to right: Joann Rich, collage artist; Anette Speaks, jewelry artist; Nancy Seay, watercolorist and photographer; and Sara Cogswell, art and fibre jeweler. All four women have lead active lives and bring so much passion and lived experiences to their artwork.

Joann lived in Barcelona, a city bursting with color and the unique architecture of Antoni Gaudi. You see that love of color and the beauty of Barcelona in her mixed media collages. Annette paints an array of diverse people, from many different cultures on organic materials like, cherry pits and pistachio shells. She also makes paper mache by pulverizing junk mail and painting over the dried pieces. We have seen her necklaces, like the one she is holding in her hand, with nearly 200 different faces (she paints the front and back). Nancy is a landscape architect and master gardener, in addition to being a visual artist. She gets her watercolors printed onto scarves, and they turn heads when you wear them. Sara began as a fibre artist and now uses fibers, literally small threads, and weaves them together to make beautiful earrings and necklaces. Much of her aesthetic comes from having lived in Japan. She works at the Cultural Arts Center. You should try to find her to admire her art. These four were perfectly paired together at Art Stock yesterday. Some of their work is available, year round,  at the gift shop beside Art Quest.

This post gives you a tiny idea of what you can experience at Art Stock. Thank you, ladies, for sharing your talent and joy with us yesterday afternoon.

Happy Monday!

Awoo Coffee Shop on South Elm Street

Awoo Coffee Shop is one of the newest in Downtown Greensboro. Back in the Day (the early 2000s),  The Green Bean (South Elm)  and Dolce Aroma (North Elm) were of the two main coffee shops on Elm Street. Over the last few years, several have opened, and there are places like Scuppernong Books, which isn't a coffee shop, per se, but it is possible to get a mighty fine cup of coffee there while you browse the book section. We always try the new coffee shops and had a chance to visit Awoo last week.  They can make just about any kind of coffee you want and have a nice selection of tea and flavoring syrups. They also have pastries and sandwiches.

Awoo displays art of local artists and features live music from time to time. If we had to describe the ambiance, we'd call it "palate cleansing." There isn't a lot of visual clutter which helps if you are easily distracted. The seats near the windows were our favorite as we like to see who we know walking by downtown, as well as anything else going on. They are trying hard to build community. The times we've passed by, there were people at the outdoor seating with their doggies. We forgot to ask the origin of the name and the logo. If you get there (236 South Elm Street) before we do, ask them for us. We love the fact they are open from 7:00 am- 7:00 pm. It can be hard to find a cup of coffee after about 3:00 p.m.

Happy Thursday! 

Saturday Night: Riding the Slingshots

Saturday nights, slingshots reign supreme on Elm Street- especially the ones with custom lights and in pairs! A Slingshot is actually a three-wheeled motorcycle. They have been around since 2014 and continue to gain popularity, first at the beach and now in Greensboro. The low center of gravity and open cockpit are designed to see and be seen. If you miss them on the first time cruising Elm Street, you can be sure there will be a second, and third, and more. The vehicles look especially stunning in front of the S.H. Kress & Co. Building. It was built in 1930 and considered one of Greensboro's architectural gems. 

Greensboro's buildings are really conducive to forming a vintage backdrop for movies and photo shoots. The street lamps also add to the ambiance. This week, you've seen some examples of what you can see and do when you connect with the community in Downtown Greensboro.  After fifteen years of walking Elm Street at lest once a week, it has become as much a part of our routine as walking around snapping photos of The Gate City. Remember to take one of the tours we told you about yesterday!

Happy Friday the 13th!

Saturday Night: Greensboro Ghost Tour

The above photo was taken in the little alley between "Baked" and "Greensboro Day Spa" in the 200 block of South Elm Street. This alleyway is so charming and photogenic. The above group was one of the Carolina History and Haunts Ghost Tours. In this 90-minute tour, you hear where some of Greensboro's departed inhabitants are said to live. Even if you don't believe, a ghost tour is a really fun way to get to know a city. Sometimes when we walk around downtown, we not only think about people who came before us, we also think of the energy of the business that were there beforehand. For example this is the very spot where we would sit when visiting the Simple Kneads Bakery. And then, we would go to Chakras for a little pampering. Chakras was one of the early businesses in Greensboro to be decorated and appointed keeping Feng shui in mind, with the goal being for people and the surrounding environment to harmonize. 

Book a ghost tour and gain a new perspective on Greensboro.

Happy Thursday!

Saturday Night with Poodles- on East Washington Street at South Elm

This is another great scene on East Washington Street. Everyone was stoping this young man with six poodles. They were so well behaved and he made handling six look like a cakewalk. Part of what makes downtown on the weekend, especially when there are community events, is the serendipity of who you meet and who you get a chance to talk to. We didn't get this guy's name, and he wasn't there when we were there later. Not only did we want to ask him his name, we also wanted to find out where he got those Carolina blue tennis shoes. We could use them for the Carolina grad in our family.

Just behind the photographer in this photo is all of the new construction happening on Davie Street. The News & Record building is still visible from the 100 block of East Washington Street. Just at the end of the block is the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. It is nice to see this little section of South Elm Street getting more foot traffic. 

Happy Wednesday!

Saturday Night: Trash Bash Competition

On Saturday night, Reconsidered Goods held a Trash Bash Sculpture competition at the Greensboro Project Space at 111 East Washington Place. It was like Greensboro's own Project Runway style competition event. Twenty five people signed up to participate at Reconsidered Goods and were randomly assigned to one of 5 teams. Five people who had never met before, some not even artists, came together and had 70 minutes to assemble items from giant tubs of repurposed materials brought from Reconsidered Goods. Teams quickly came together and produced very creative works of art. Community members milled around, observing the event in process. Snacks were provided. Master makers walked around and drilled things to the wall as requested.

The exhibition will be on display at 111 East Washington Place until October 17th. The final pieces are fascinating. The one photographed above, Team 2, happened to be the grand prize winner. The winning team also used their "mystery box" of junk, earning bonus points. In true Reconsidered Goods fashion, their grand prize trophy was fashioned from materials harvested from Reconsidered Goods. A baby doll head was at the top of their trophy, as well as all of the consolation trophies. Team 5 created a giant Medusa head. It was fantastic, too. To be sure, they were all unique. This is such a good example of community building, turning trash to treasure, and nurturing creativity. Donate to Reconsidered Goods and you will be doing your share to make great events happen.

Happy Tuesday!

Saturday Night 1: Music Pop Up

This week on GDP, all photos feature a scene from Downtown Greensboro on Saturday night. This will give you an idea of the fun that can be had downtown on the weekends. We'll start with the music pop up outside the Greensboro Project Space at 111 East February 1 Place. It is a UNCG Student exhibition Center. Many art shows and events are held inside this small (almost) underground area consisting of three rooms. The music was happening while Reconsidered Goods was holding an event inside the project space. We'll feature that event tomorrow.

For now, it is noteworthy how diverse the group is. From rappers to a young woman training her Corgi, young and old alike were enjoying the music. The event space was standing room only and the project maker members needed to be able to hear themselves. The cooler, dry fall weather (around 60ºF),  made standing around outside enjoyable. The location of the music seem like an anteroom or prelude to all of the dynamic making going on inside. Keep watching for more fun on Elm Street on Saturday night!

Happy Monday!

Crafted, The Art of the Taco, Along South Elm

Crafted, The Art of the Taco, opened on South Elm Street in 2012 and for the last eleven years has been bringing creative, upscale tacos to downtown Greensboro. The business stayed busy during Greensboro Pride, and, as you can see from the rainbow at the entrance, they are welcoming to all. This low building allows room in the frame of the photo to show that the skies were blue last Sunday. What is slightly less evident in the photo is that Mayor Nancy Vaughn is enjoying a meal at Crafted. It is always nice to see our local politicians out and interacting with their constituents. In case you can't find her, she is behind the word BEER.

Thursday is the new Friday and tomorrow is First Friday, so consider heading downtown and incorporating it into your weekend. Even without asking her, we're betting the Mayor would endorse that plan. Hmmmm, we think we're in the mood for a "Honky Tonk" taco, or maybe a bowtie taco....

Happy Thursday!

West February 1 Place in Downtown Greensboro

West February 1 Place is a a small street tucked between Elm and Greene Streets, leading to Governmental Plaza and The Guilford County Courthouse. February 1, 1960 is the day of the Sit-Ins at the Woolworth lunch counter. Other than the artwork on the street, with the Rolex clock and the buildings, this street is a real step back in time. It is the site of many pop-ups and a spill-over space for other events. Such was the case this past weekend when there were different booths on the street during Greensboro Pride. There is so much history on this corner as well as some powerful artwork.

The Cup of Freedom cup of coffee sculpture is on this street, just out of camera range. At the very end of the street, what looks like a tiny arch, is the upper part of the Millennium Gate by  local sculptor, Jim Gallucci. Street scenes remind us that it is the people that make a community great.

Happy Wednesday!

Greensboro History Museum at Greensboro Pride Festival 2023

Yesterday was a glorious day to be in Greensboro. The weather was fabulous and there was so much to do. We started our day at the Greensboro Pride Festival, an event supporting emotional, social and mental health needs of those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. The event has been around since 2006 and is predicted to have served over 60,000 people this year. The event is completely staffed by volunteers. Corporations like Ralph Lauren, Volvo, and Ecolab had booths there. Even Sheetz had a place to apply for jobs; vendor booth spaces were sold out. Walking around were parents, offering free hugs. Alternative Resources of the Triad organizes the event. 

The above photo shows the Greensboro History Museum booth in the parking lot on the South 300 block of Elm Street. You could glue a puzzle piece on the board of someone or an event that has been underrepresented in history. There had been several people at the table, we just happened to snap the photo between clusters of visitors. The Greensboro History Museum a vita, relevantl community resource. How wonderful that they take advantage of increasing their visibility in the community and to spread the message that all are welcome at the museum. The museum is not just about the past, but also about making history. Stop by the museum at 130 Summit Avenue and see for yourself. We'll feature more photos of the pride event throughout the week. It was a riot of color!

Happy Monday!

"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!

Starbucks, New Kid on the Block in Downtown Greensboro

The long-awaited Starbucks is now open downtown. It is located across from the Bryan Y in the former location of Hardee's at 101 N.  Edgeworth Street. We first learned of this plan last year when it was reported on Fox 8. Hardee's had been looking very empty for years and then during Covid, it closed.  This corner on the western edge of downtown was looking very lonely and now is a hub of activity. While we all love our local coffee shops, the appeal of Starbucks is that it is the only downtown coffee shop with a drive-through window. Plus, many people have their go-to designer drinks crafted at Starbucks. With all of the growth in the north and northwestern parts of downtown, this store is sure to be a hit. Most of the other coffee shops are along Elm Street.

The .85 acre parcel of land does not have an overabundance of parking. However, between that generous patio and indoor seating, people walking and on bicycles will find it very convenient. Somehow, the word is out. While we were there, it was quite busy.

Happy Thursday!

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

Today is the day. Folks, the North Carolina Folk Festival is a really big deal. We wanted to advertise it one more day so that you get out and celebrate these musicians in town. The above photo is of City Stage, which is located between Davie and Church Street. Here is a map of the entire venue footprint: LeBauer Park, Lawn Stage, Center City Jams, Van Dyke Stage, and Old Courthouse Stage- with food trucks and craft vendors in between. That is a very reasonable distance between stages to get from one event to the other.

The music will be great whether you are attending during the day or at night. The last events start at 9:30 tonight. Saturday proves to be fun. Mark Dillon will lead the Honky Tonk Jam and María Gonzales will lead the Latin Dance Social. We love seeing how Greensboro comes together to support this monumental undertaking. Look at the above crowd. Indeed, they were having fun.

Happy Friday!

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!

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!

Native American Art Gallery and Resources in Guilford County

The Native American Art Gallery in the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street is filled with some lovely arts and crafts, as seen in the above photo. It has been open since 1990. They both exhibit and sell Native American art.  They also have annual exhibitions and multi-disciplinary arts and education programs. It is a 501 (c) 3 agency and do a lot to support the local Native American community.

Also, mark your calendars as The Guilford Native American Association will host their 46th Annual Pow Wow September 15-17. At the Pow Wow, you can see many intricately handcrafted items in use. For example a jingle dress usually has 365 jingles on it, one for every day of the year. You may see people wearing their best moccasins.  Did you know that the Guilford County Schools has an American Indian Education Program? They help Native American students achieve academically and provide opportunities for students to engage in cultural activities facilitated by Native community members.  There is a lot of overlap in participation between these groups, creating a way for the Native community members to stay connected to the past and in the present.

Happy Wednesday!

LFG & Greene Street

As you can see from the LED display on the top of the building to the left, it is the LFG building. Lincoln Financial acquired the Jefferson-Pilot Corporation and this iconic building in March of 2006. The FLG building is highly visible from most vantage points downtown. The light façade shines against the above dramatic sky. The photo was taken this past weekend and shows how a Greensboro sky can change before our eyes. Here, you see a bright blue sky completing with a dark, ominous patch.

Something that has been under discussion for years is that Greene Street is part one-way and part two-way. Do pay attention when driving on Greene. The part in the photograph will be close during the 2023 North Carolina Folk Festival, to be held right here in Greensboro from September 8th-10th. (See map/festival footprint HERE). For the folk festival, let's hope the bright blue sky will win out over the dark, ominous one.

Have a great Tuesday. Hope to see you downtown!

 

Exterior of Hopper Trolley

After featuring Greensboro's Hopper Trolley yesterday, with the driver, we had a couple of requests to show the exterior of the trolley. So, here you have it. It is well marked and very distinct from the city busses. Of course, this is one of four trolleys and they run up and down Elm Street from 12 noon to 12 pm on Thur-Sat and until 10 pm on Sunday. It is so beautiful inside and out. We especially love the inside. It is clean and spacious. There is a map of Greensboro on the ceiling.

The above trolley was photographed in front of Natty Greene's just as it was turning onto Hamburger Square. Hamburger Square is a really convenient place to catch the Hopper Trolley. Today would be a perfect day to give it a try. If you want to combine a ride with a baseball game, the Grasshoppers* will be home for Thirsty Thursday and the trolley will be running. Mark your calendars. 

Happy Saturday, make it a great one!!!

 

* see schedule HERE.

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!

Black Patriots of Revolution

The above photo features the GTA bus that honors the Black men who fought at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. These were men who served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary Battle in Guilford County. The bus operates across routes citywide. If you want to learn more about the research that went into uncovering the story of the experiences of enslaved and free people of color at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. It is fascinating to learn how people of Greensboro come together to research information and bring history to light. This video is over an hour long and even if you don't watch the video, it is nice to know that information gets archived. So from an idea to the process of researching the Black men who participated to putting this history on a bus for all to see has been a lengthy process that came to fruition this summer. 

If you are looking for something to do as summer wanes, spend some time at the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park and try to learn more about the people whose names are found on this bus. Happy Tuesday!

MUSEP Concert- Orquesta Internacional La Clave

The Music on Sunday Evening in the Park (MUSEP) concert last night was supposed to have been at Lindley Park, but rain intervened. Fortunately, the program was moved inside to the Van Dyke Performance Space at the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street. The group that performed was the Orquesta Internacional La Clave and, as you can see from the above photo, people were having a great time dancing. Orquesta Internacional La Clave played lovely salsa music and people were dancing up a storm. Unfortunately, the change in venue impacted attendance significantly.

This is the 44th year for MUSEP. Three concerts remain in this season. Hopefully, you will be able to attend them. We learned last night that, on average, the concerts cost $3,500 each. While entrance is free, contributions are always greatly appreciated.

Happy Monday!

Love Is All Around

Sometimes, people just put you in a good mood. The above photo was taken a few weeks ago in the 300 block of South Elm Street. To the right, you see members of the Jehovah Witness congregation ready to talk to anyone who wants to learn more about their faith or attend a service in a Kingdom Hall.

To the left a you see a downtown shopper with a canine companion. Just seeing the two of them bouncing up Elm Street, exuding great joy,  put all of us in a great mood. It is a 21st century photo with the optimistic, "feel good" vibe of the Mary Tyler Moore Show from the 1970s. Today is Saturday and we suggest you head downtown on Elm Street, not just to seek joy but to bring some joy to those around you.

Happy Saturday!

Greensboro Fire Department 10

Greensboro Fire Department (GFD) Station 10 is located at 4208 West Gate City Boulevard. According to the fire department's website, "the GFD exists for one purpose- to serve people in times of emergency, which is the core function of local government. The GFD is devoted to leaving a positive impact on our community." With respect to positive community impact, the GFD is always ready to participate in events that provide visibility to the fire department and to engage with the community. The above photo shows when they were set up downtown during Fun Forth with a water station to help people cool off from the heat. Children took great joy in running in and out of the water spray. Even a few canines enjoyed getting a wet.

The support staff of the GFD focuses on fire prevention and education. They also recruit and train existing personnel. Maybe someday, children will be future recruits because of the positive relationships built while attending with firemen and fire trucks.

346 Elm Street

Look at all these fabulous pennants denoting various places around the United States. Go to 346 South Elm Street and you can travel without leaving town. A pennant, your imagination, and the sky is the limit. This tiny shop between Two Brothers Artisan Brewing and Design Archives always has an intriguing window display. So far, the store has not opened, but the merchandise changes regularly. We love a shop window that changes often. Kit Rodenbough, Design Archives entrepreneur, has the space and plans to open it on Saturdays. She's dubbed it Design Archives Estates. You know if Kit is involved, it will be fabulous.

One idea we had for Greensboro Daily Photo was to find an address that matches the day of the year it is. For example, in 2023, 346 will be December 12th. We could wait and publish this photo on December 12th. Somehow, we suspect that would be REALLY hard to get 365 engaging photos with numbers in them. Plus, we wouldn't want to wait until December to share Kit's latest venture.  

Happy Monday!

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

Trinity Episcopal Church is getting some work done this summer. It looks like that beautiful slate roof is getting some repairs. It is absolutely breathtaking and matches the stone facade perfectly. It is located in the historic district of Fisher Park. Two weeks ago, when we helped a delegate from France visiting a couple of weeks ago. We drove them past Holy Trinity because they could also see the First Presbyterian Church and St. Benedict Catholic Church. They were amazed that all of these churches were right together. Truly this trinity of churches clustered together show the diversity of Greensboro's Christians. And, West Market Street United Methodist Church and First Baptist are right down the street.

On the day we were at Trinity Episcopal taking photos, there was a camping tent put up beside the labyrinth. Churches are dynamic places now. They do so much for so many. If you are looking for a great religious community, head to the service at Trinity today. All are welcome at Trinity and Sunday services are at 8:30 and 10:30 am. Even if you don't get to the service, stop by, walk the labyrinth and check on the progress of the repairs.

Happy Sunday!

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!

Downtown Greensboro: First Friday July 2023

Look how lively Greensboro is in the above photo. It was taken at the South 300 block of Elm Street, actually at Hamburger Square during Fun Fourth. It lets you see that if the Greensboro hosts and advertises an event, the public will attend. It was really hot on the Fourth and just beyond the railroad tracks, a hydrating fire truck from Station 10 was there to the delight of children and canines alike.

First Friday is another great event and local businesses work hard to keep downtown lively and it is today. From 6-9pm tonight, there is a lot to do in the Greensboro Cultural Center on Davie Street. There will be shopping, open galleries, live performances, and more. There is still the program where for each $25 you spend downtown, you enter your receipt into a drawing and have the chance to win $500. The business where you spent the money wins $500 also. We know several businesses that have won. We're still trying for the big win. There is also a Grasshoppers game. How will you spend your day and evening?

Happy Friday!

 

Greensboro Grasshoppers: Stars and Stripes Spectacular

The resolution isn't the highest on this photo, but it captures the spirit and excitement last night at First National Bank Field. The Greensboro Grasshoppers played to a sold out crowd. Their opponents, Aberdeen (MD), are a minor league team for the Baltimore Orioles and apparently one of the players is someone who is getting a lot of publicity. Fortunately for Greensboro, the Grasshoppers won 8-5 and immediately after the game, fireworks began. If you didn't get to attend last night, HERE is a schedule. You have several more opportunities this week and each night has a special theme.

Yesterday was so full of community events in Greensboro. We got around to as many events as we could and will share more photos of the Fourth throughout the week. From the Apple Pie Bicycle Ride to the  Freedom Run, to the Fun Fourth Festival downtown, to Kirkwood's  neighborhood parade, to the grand finale downtown with the fireworks at the baseball stadium, indeed, there was plenty to do. Hopefully, you were able to participate in something and even found time to have a picnic. Thinking of food,  since it's July, Cook-Out is back with their watermelon milkshakes. Oh, and City Meet for Greensboro's Community Swim Association starts tomorrow, and Friday is First Friday! July in Greensboro is always so special. Hope to see you out and about.

Happy Wednesday!

Happy July 4th, 2023

The Fourth of July is a big celebration in Greensboro. The Apple Pie Bicycle ride happens at 7:30 am at Bur-Mil Park today. There is a ride for all levels of strength and endurance. From 1pm-6pm downtown is Fun Fourth. Elm Street is blocked off and there will be plenty to do and see. At least one Uncle Sam will be in attendance. Last Fourth, we spotted two Uncle Sam at Fun Fourth (see HERE). So many businesses were closed yesterday and even more today. Here's to as many people as possible getting a four day weekend.

Regarding the Fourth of July in Greensboro, the most famous neighborhood event  is the Kirkwood Parade. This is the 74th year for Fourth of July fun in this neighborhood just north of downtown and slightly west of Irving Park. From 4:30- 8:30 pm, families will march and drive down Independence Road. Fun like you see above can be had when families and neighborhoods work together, building community and making memories. There is no entry fee and the event is not monetized. It is just a time for families to enjoy each other.

Happy Tuesday, Happy Fourth of July!