Greensboro Daily Photo

South End Brewing Company

South End Brewery in located downtown on Lewis Street in the building that formerly housed Gibbs, and Lewis Street Antiques before that. This part of downtown Greensboro is actually called Southend now. The artwork on the building and the telephone pole is quite eye-catching as you approach from the Lewis Street Parking Lot. 

The business is part of the booming trend to brew beer on site. They actually have their own brewer, William Brown who got his start home brewing and as part of the Battleground Brewing Guild. With all of the local expertise in beer brewing and all of these institutions of higher education, likely, it is a matter of time until one of the colleges or universities offers a degree in fermentation studies. NC State offers a fermentation engineering continuing education course and Appalachian State offers a degree. To our knowledge that opportunity is not currently available in the Triad, but the infrastructure is here!

Stop by South End today and you will probably see lots of people here. We were there on a weekday. Happy Saturday! 

Electric Vehicle Charging Station at Deep Roots Co-op!

The passenger car plug-in market share is growing, albeit, not quite as fast in the USA as in other countries. As an example, the total plug-in new car sales for Norway in 2020 was 74.7% and for the USA, 1.9%. * The electric car revolution is coming to Greensboro, too. It is especially encouraging to find charging stations, like the one here, downtown at Deep Roots Co-op - 600 North Eugene Street. It makes perfect sense for a grocery store co-op to have a charging station. The station is located near the back of  the Deep Roots parking lot, in the grassy median on the Joymonger's side. Just behind the tree in the background, middle, is the Lincoln Financial Group building (to help you orient even more).

While Earth Day is not technically until April 22nd, every day should be Earth Day. Those who have converted to hybrid or total plug-in cars are leading the way on doing their share to reduce their carbon footprint. Happy Tuesday!

* reference and more information HERE. 

Petals Lining East Lake Drive Leading to Music at 100 McIver St!

Today on this first day of April, we're featuring the petals that have fallen to the ground this week, in preparation for the leaves that are about to fill out on the trees. The petals reminds us that spring is the season of rejuvenation and abrupt change. There will be nothing subtle with what is about to happen to the landscape of Greensboro. From this ground level orientation, the eye moves to the horizon line. This view from East Lake Drive leads to Market Street and the UNCG School of Music is the brick building in the background.

The Music Building has been open since 1999- already 22 years ago!  As we enter April, many students will be holding concerts are part of their coursework and requirements for graduation. The concerts will delight you, if you get a chance to attend or to stream. UNCG is being diligent about following pandemic protocols and live concerts have very limited seating. Some can be watched online. Here is a list if you are interested. As a matter of fact, there are two tonight!

 

Mural and Signs of Spring at Barnhardt Street

The above mural is visible from Barnhardt Street and the Lewis Street Parking Lot. This is the area where Piedmont Winterfest is now held. The area looks so pretty with signs of spring and with all of the bright artwork. It is also visible from Spring Garden Street. This past Thursday, late afternoon, the area was eerily quiet. Hopefully, with the weather opening and COVID waning, outdoor events will start making a comeback and the businesses on the perimeter of the parking lot will once again be filled with people. The nearby Boxcar Arcade and SouthEnd Brewing, and other establishments will regain clientele. 

Here is a link to some of the Greensboro Public Art. If you get a chance this weekend, visit downtown and enjoy some of this public art in person. Also, if you know the artist of the above mural, let us know and we'll drop it in today's post! As always, we appreciate you GDP readers!

Quiet Afternoon At Hamburger Square

Hamburger Square is located in the heart of downtown Greensboro. This view is at the corner of South Elm Street and McGee Street. Some days, this very space is filled with people and performers during downtown events. At times, a state is set up here for performers. Yesterday, all was quiet here and sometimes a quiet and peaceful walk is so meaningful, especially after a long day at work. In the distance, you can see the trestle bridge that was recently refurbished and repainted. It sees a lot of train traffic daily. Since 1851, Greensboro has been a big part of the NC Railroad Corridor, the very reason the city is nicknamed The Gate City.

There are many open spaces in Greensboro and remember there are many great shops, restaurants, and other businesses just waiting for you to stop in for a visit. We hope you have a great weekend and that you find time to head downtown. Just in front of the magnolia tree on the left are free-standing DGSO letters. They are perfect for a photo opportunity. No doubt where the photo was taken when you are in front of those letters.

People of Greensboro: Zack & William Matheney

Greensboro is a great city for many reasons. However, the best aspect of all is the people here. Today, we're featuring Zack Matheny and his son William. Zack, President of Downtown Greensboro, is originally from Statesville, NC, came to Greensboro in 1996 to work for Cone Mills. Through that position, he relocated to California. However,Zack e missed North Carolina so much, he returned, deciding to settle down in Greensboro. In addition to raising his family here, Zack's mom has relocated to Greensboro. William is a 4th grader at Our Lady of Grace School. Last Thursday, he got to spend a little time visiting his dad at the office. You can tell by the heartfelt smile on his face that he was enjoying being there.

Zack, through the organization,  Downtown Greensboro.  (#DGSO ) works in so many ways to help downtown Greensboro thrive. He oversees a dedicated team that does everything from helping people find a place to live downtown, start a business, grow their business, and they even plan events to help people make great memories here. We can't wait to see what events get planned for the upcoming months- William is looking forward to them, too!

Happy Tuesday, dear readers!

Downtown Greensboro #DGSOTOGO

Downtown Greensboro Incorporated is an economic development organization. The staff works tirelessly to ensure that downtown businesses, venues, and public spaces have what they need to thrive. This has been no easy task during the pandemic. They also work to see that community events like Fun Fourth and the Festival of Lights operate, as feasible. Their committees include 1) economic development; 2) fundraising; and 3) events and entertanment. The Downtown Greensboro organization was formed in 1997, and has been in their current location (536 South Elm Street) for five years. The above photo features part of the staff, from left to right: Zack Matheny, Joy Ross, Keith Holliday, and Stacy Calfo.

We had the good opportunity to meet everyone when we went into their office yesterday to collect a prize. Downtown Greensboro is currently holding a drawing where people who make purchases of $25 or more downtown have the chance to win $500 and the business where they shopped also wins $500. While we didn't win the cash prize, we won a very generous shopping bag full of t-shirts and items celebrating Greensboro.

Downtown Greensboro does so much for the community; read about them at this link ( which was one of our primary sources for information). And stay tuned, when we were visiting, they had just finished a meeting planning future events for the remainder of 2021. Hats off to this fine group and organization. Let's all show them a little love and head downtown this afternoon. It isn't First Friday, but it is always a Fun Friday-  in downtown Greensboro!

Oscar Oglethorpe Eyewear in the 200 Block of South Elm

Oscar Oglethorpe is a great place to get your eyes examined and to purchase trendy (and practical) frames, at a great price. They are located at 226 South Elm Street. So often, when we walk by, the window displays bring us big smiles. The display this month evokes fun in the sun and billowy clouds in the sky. The above photo is only a fraction of the display, but sunny days make the window decorations hard to photograph, due to glare. Last time we featured the window, in 2016, the person who worked this window magic was Tammy Pegram of Tammy Can Re-Design. Surely, Tammy continues to provide these fabulous displays. The 200 block of South Elm has the creative posters at Triad Stage, and across the street from both of these businesses is Thousands O' Prints. They, too, are known for fabulously curated window displays. 

At Oscar Oglethorpe's, not only are the window displays enticing, the staff is super client oriented. They have this way of finding glasses that are perfect for you, helping just enough to steer you in the right direction, without actually making the decision for you. Do call for an appointment, though. They work really hard at keeping you safe from Covid! Get some new glasses or sunglasses, buy a poster, eat some good tacos, get a pedicure, and never have to leave the South 200 block of Elm... unless of course you want to slip around the corner and eat at Liberty Oak, which, by the way, serves breakfast now!

Carolina Theatre 2021

If you follow current events in Greensboro, you may have already known that Carolina Theatre named the auditorium for Betty and Ben Cone, Jr. Here is the Youtube video from 2018, where the announcement was made. As we are reminded in the video, Betty lead the campaign to save the Carolina Theatre back in 1976. Betty and Ben also donated significantly to the Setting the Stage campaign at the theatre a few years ago. That last big campaign really helped with technological amenities and upgrades, keeping the theatre current in the digital age.

It is hard to believe that it has already been almost six years since we interviewed Betty Cone for Greensboro Daily Photo (here). Please read (or reread) that post where we featured her. It really lets you know what Betty has meant to the Greensboro community. Noteworthy is the fact that the photo from 2015 was taken in front of the Carolina Theatre. Betty had suggested we meet there as she had something to do at the theatre. The banner in the above photo is currently hanging at the Greene Street entrance to this Greensboro, North Carolina treasure-  where people have gone for great entertainment since 1927. Thanks to Betty and Ben, the 100th anniversary will be a grand one and the Carolina Theatre should be a great place to enjoy performances well into the next century. 

If you want a quick overview of the contributions  of the whole Cone family in Greensboro, read Jim Schlosser's 2003 article in the News & Record (updated in 2015).  

Former Methodist Cemetery

Good morning, Greensboro!  A reader suggested we feature this sign explaining about a former Methodist cemetery. The sign is located at the 300 block of South Elm Street. The above photo shows a recent version of the sign. If the letters towards the center appear mottled, it looks someone took some red spray paint to them. That is so sad to vandalize a historic marker. When we featured it a few years ago, it had googlie eyes over the "O" on the word "original" resembling a German umlaut. Those googlie eyes are long gone.

This sign tells of a Methodist cemetery formerly located downtown and used for public burials. The unclaimed bodies were moved to Green Hill Cemetery, north of town. It is interesting that this sign would be placed so many blocks north of the location of the cemetery. Over ten percent of Christians in Greensboro are Methodist and Christians comprise the largest faith group in Greensboro. Historic markers are nice, because they help document events and help us remember our past, well into the future. Happy Sunday! It is a great day to drive around and read historic markers and HERE is a map, showing you where they are located.

L Richardson Preyer Federal Building Court House

This photo is of the north side of the L Richardson Preyer Federal Building at the corner of Eugene Street and Friendly Avenue. The entrance/address is on the other side at 324 West Market Street. Actually, however, entrances were built on all four sides. It opened in 1933 as a post office and a courthouse of the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. The four-story structure is 60,980 sq ft. Twenty-four homes that were 2,500 square feet would fit inside of the Preyer Building. That is a big building downtown and to be sure, they take care of big business there.

The exterior architecture is Art Deco style and if you are an aficionado of architecture, there is plenty to see here, both inside and out! The foundation is Mt. Airy granite and the exterior is Indiana limestone. It is hard to imagine Greensboro without the Preyer Building. Imagine 1920 in downtown Greensboro, the Lincoln Financial Corp. buildings would not yet have been built, nor the Preyer building. Just that West Market Street United Methodist Church, now snuggled between the two imposing buildings, remain from the original footprint of those city blocks. The 20s and 30s were big times of growth for downtown Greensboro. It is looking like the 2020s and 2030s are times of big growth, too, especially if you consider what the local universities have planned! Happy Thursday... a little nostalgia day on GDP.

Community Garden at First Baptist Church on Friendly Avenue

Yesterday, at First Baptist Church, a group gathered to repair and refresh the raised beds to their community garden. With the church as a backdrop, the volunteers worked for several hours. Due to water runoff, the south side of the wooden frames rots first and they need to be replaced before the first seeds are planted. From Associate Pastor and Music Director Doug Vancil to other church members, volunteers had frames reinforced after a day of manual labor. The beds are planted and cared for by church and community members. The adjacent neighborhood is Westerwood. Soon, it will be time to plant and, before you know it, the watering, feeding, weeding, harvesting, and sharing of produce will begin to unfold. The plots are ready! Winds were strong and temperatures cool yesterday, but the glorious sunshine made working and being outside absolutely glorious.

If you want to hear a sermon from First Baptist, they are available on the website (see HERE). You can also log on to the Facebook page of  First Baptist Church of Greensboro and the service starts at 10:30. First Baptist is a liberal church. If you are looking for an active congregation that has something for everybody, at all ages and stages of life, First Baptist is a great church to consider. From what we hear from members, it is a great religious home. We learned firsthand, yesterday that the music director is kind and inviting. May their congregation and community garden thrive.

Happy Sunday!

Green Is the New Green Bean!

The Green Bean at 341 South Elm Street  has been a downtown Greensboro institution since 2002, and was part of the revitalization os Elm Street. This past October, Amy and Galen Foresman purchased the Green Bean. In the few months they've owned it, they've made changes to the space, giving the interior a facelift. They are determined to revitalize downtown's first coffee shop (of the new millennium) and make it a hub of activity.  The plan to incorporate local art and music into the space. The Foresman family has built deep roots in the Greensboro community and should have the connections to make their dream a reality. Galen Foresman is a philosophy professor at North Carolina A&T State University in the Liberal Studies Department; this should be a perfect background to bring great conversations and discussions to the coffee shop. 

The 300 block of South Elm Street has so many great shops. It is a place you can start your day with a great cup of coffee, shop for a new pair of glasses, search for vintage, handmade, and fair trade items, eat great meals, share a pint with a friend, buy a good book, and then head over to treat yourself to a slice of cheesecake. The Green Bean was closed by the time we made it downtown yesterday; however, we plan to stop by this weekend, enjoy a cup of coffee and check out the vibe. We're wondering if the hot-pink walls with jumbo sharpie graffiti are still in the bathrooms. To be sure, the exterior is inviting and, as for the man and dog, it is wonderful to see people with their canine companions enjoying the city. People make a city and make gray days joyful. Happy Saturday, dear readers. It is a good day for coffee. The Green Bean's new hours are from 7:30 am- 3:00 pm.

Southern Railway Passenger Station

Yesterday, we posted a photo of a railcar. Today, we are featuring the first railway passenger station in Greensboro. We owe much of the early rail traffic through Greensboro to Governor John Motley Morehead. While he died before the above station was built, he played a major role in having the trains travel through Greensboro. Governor Morehead's home is just a few blocks northeast of this rail station. The Southern Railroad Company commissioned the Southern Railway Station, which opened in 1899. The exterior is made of brick with granite trim. The station served travelers coming in and out of Greensboro.

This depot at 400 South Elm Street was replaced in 1927 by the J. Douglas Galyon Station on East Washington Street. The above building has changed considerably over the last 122 years. According to Preservation Greensboro, the elaborate Victorian elements were removed.*  While the turreted roof is long gone, the round brick support feature on the northeastern side of the building is still a noticeable feature. Also missing is the 3rd floor which was built under a clay roof filled with dormers. As of 1980, the has been on the National Register as part of the downtown Greensboro Historic District. So, hopefully, the building will be around for a very long time and will be repurposed into something Greensboro fabulous. The neighborhing Cascade Saloon was rescued and brought back to life by the Christman Company. The depot deserves to be restored. You can tell by the above photo that is has good bones. Happy Thursday, dear readers!

 

*reference and more information HERE.

The Greensboro Greenway: Southeast Portion

Part of the southeast portion of the Greensboro Greenway passes along Bragg Street at Martin Luther King Drive. The above photo shows the asphalt trail that comes up the hill from Morrow Boulevard and crosses over East Gate City Boulevard. The downtown portion of the greenway is a 4-mile, multi-use paved trail. It is the only greenway encircling a city in North Carolina. This beautiful community resource actually connects to 100 miles of existing trails that will only continue to grow. Mr. Mapp's MLK bust (featured Monday) is found along this section of the Greenway. Two additional works of art are here. In the foreground is William Byer's "Reflection Rock" installed in 2019. In the background is the Monument to Dignity and Respect by Vandorn Hinnant. The arm, with a finger pointing to the sky, reads, "Dignity, United We Stand" a message that was heard in the Presidential Inauguration yesterday. Another quote on the Hinnant sculpture reads,  "I've always felt that the place where I live is the place I should improve" Dorothy Brown, Community Leader.

The greenway is a giant effort to unite and improve our community. Here is a detailed map, should you be curious, or even better, interested in exploring the greenway yourself. As you look at the map, you will learn that it was envisioned and inspired by the Greensboro Bicentennial Commission, to be the signature project commemorating Greensboro's 2008 Bicentennial. In 1891, Greensboro became known as the Gate City because so many trains traveled through Greensboro. It was the transportation gateway to the west and south. We're thinking that as of 2021,  Greensboro is on its way to earning another nickname, the Trail City!

In Search of a Perfect View

Where can you go in Greensboro to take a fabulous sunrise, sunset, or panoramic view photo? We've been going around town, in search of the perfect view. So far, we haven't found a spot that absolutely showcases the beauty of our city. Today's effort was taken at the Church Street Parking Deck, beside the Central Library and behind the Cultural Arts Center. As seen on the sign, in the lime green block in the top left of the photo, this bright building is the Children's Museum. It has been a Greensboro treasure since it opened on May 15, 1999. While this view of the Children's Museum is a nice one and you can see the tree-lined Dunleath Neighborhood off in the distance, we are still hoping to find a nice panoramic view.

The Children's Museum is temporarily closed due to Covid. When open, it is a place that inspires hands-on learning and according to their website, they have more than 20 exhibits and a 30-foot tall climber. The museum has continued to grow over the years, having added an edible garden and an outdoor play plaza. The cost of admission is $10. If you want to help them through the COVID times, you can donate, here. While the streets look empty, if you look closely you can see a few people walking on the sidewalk in front of the museum.

Remembering J. Kenneth Lee

The above mural features a Greensboro civil rights great, J. Kenneth Lee. In her News & Record article in 2018, Nancy McLoughlin wrote a befitting title to remember this great man, "Remembering a quiet 'giant' Fighter of racism. Mentor to many. J. Kenneth Lee 'stood at the front of the line all the time'."* Mr. Lee was a civil rights attorney who came to Greensboro to attend North Carolina A&T State University. Mr. Lee went on to obtain a law degree from UNC Chapel Hill and returned to Greensboro to practice and to play an integral part in the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. Lee worked hard to dismantle Jim Crow laws, to help desegregate public schools, and to open doors for African Americans that had previously been closed . As an example, Mr. Lee founded a federally chartered savings and loan, American Federal in Greensboro, making it possible for African Americans to secure loans. As mentioned yesterday, Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. stayed at Mr. Lee's house on Broad Street. While Mr. Lee called Greensboro home for most of his 94 years, he grew up in Hamlet, NC (Richmond County) and remembered fondly his time with his grandmother, who had been a slave. Here is an interesting entry on J. Kenneth Lee in the Carolina Law Oral History Project.

The above mural of Mr. Lee is painted on the Studio 503 building just beside the Point Dance Studio. The mural is located on Washington Street- at the corner of Pastor Anderson Way. Mural artist "Aches", who hails from Ireland, painted the portrait-mural in 2018. Here is an article showing "Aches" during the painting process. It is fascinating how quickly and efficiently these mural artists work!

* Reference and more information in Nancy McLoughlin's article.

Honoring and Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Always observed the third Monday in January, MLK Day is a federal holiday. Government offices are closed, as are public schools. The above photo features the bust originally cast by Wilber Lee Mapp in 1994 and originally installed at the corner of MLK Drive and South Elm Street (see it here). This iteration of the bust is installed in Ole Asheboro at the corner of Bragg Street and Martin Luther King Drive. Mr. Mapp's sculpture was recast in bronze and installed here in 2019. The ribbon cutting ceremony was on January 21st. Here is the link from when we attended the ceremony two years ago. During yesterday's visit, we noticed that the greenway is now completed just to the right of this monument. There are two other pieces of artwork at this greenway juncture and the view is really pretty. We'll feature more from this area soon. 

Usually, Ole Asheboro and Southside would be teeming with people today with a parade and other celebrations. Today it will be COVID quiet. Perhaps people will walk or bike by and take time to reflect on the the teachings of Dr. King. As stated on the plaque in front of the bust, "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., planned to speak at Trinity AME Zion Church in Greensboro (a few blocks from here) on April 4, 1968. He canceled his visit to Greensboro to remain in Memphis where he was assassinated on that day." If you are here in east Greensboro, just over the hill, you will find Bennett College, where Dr. King spoke at Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel on February 11, 1958. Dr. King also stayed at the Broad Street home of civil rights attorney, Kenneth Lee.* 

*reference and more information. 

Skateboarding in Greensboro

This photo, taken in December, is of teens skating downtown on Barnhardt Street. It is so hard for teens to find things to do for entertainment and to find ways to socialize with schools closed. Skateboarding is a way to get outside, get a little exercise, and have fun with friends. These skaters were just off Elm Street, trying to master pop shuvits, ollies, grabs, and more. Historically, Greensboro hasn't been known as a skating town, but, popularity has been increasing over the years. If you know of young people looking for places to skate, there is the Above Board Skatepark on Greengate Drive. Also, Latham Skatepark offers skateboarding, as does the Glenwood neighborhood. Skaters should wear helmets and pads (and masks).

If you have ever been the parent of a skateboarder, you know how easy it is for accidents to happen. However, parents also learn that that the determination comes from practicing skateboard moves, which is good for helping kids learn to focus and work towards goals. Skateboarding is now a Summer Olympic sport and will debut in the games in Tokyo this summer. Who knows, maybe the above skateboarding trio from Greensboro someday will compete in the Olympics. If these guys need a new board, wheels, or trucks, Stolen Skate Shop at 534 South Elm Street is just down the street. Stolen adds yet another opportunity for entertainment in the 500 block of South Elm- arcade, bowling, ice skating, and skateboarding supplies all within the block.

Happy Saturday. May you find something fun and safe to make your day memorable.

Bus #1 Reminds Us: Mask Up!

The bus in the photo above is leaving Greene Street, has looped around the Holliday Circle roundabout, and is heading to Spring Garden Street in downtown Greensboro. Notice the "MASK UP!" reminder on bus number 1. The drivers work hard to keep riders, and themselves, safe.

Of course, the tall building in the background is the Lincoln Financial Group building. While the name of the building changes as the occupants change, this skyscraper remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in Greensboro. Actually, it is two buildings. The whiter building to the right in older Jefferson Standard building. It was built in 1922. The grayer one with the green roof and the time/temperature sign is the more recent building, initially Jefferson-Pilot and, as of 2006, Lincoln Financial Group.  At 233 feet, the building is still the tallest in Greensboro.

As for the bus, if you are interested in using this community transportation resource, here is a link to the routes.

When taking the photo, we didn't think there were any people in the photo. On closer inspection, we noticed two people. Do you see the couple?

Hamburger Square: What a Great Backdrop

Hamburger Square, at the end of the 300 block of South Elm Street, is where many community events take place. There have always been businesses here, especially sandwich shops. In the time of WWII, soldiers gathered here to travel by train. Currently Natty Greene's, Just Be, and Little Brother Brewing surround the square. The Southeast corner, just below the railroad tracks, doesn't have a business; it has some green space. The above photo is of Natty Greene's in December.

In January of 2019, an article in the News & Record stated that The Christman Company, located nearby in the former Cascade Saloon, donated $50,000 to help rejuvenate this area* It looks like at least some of the work has been done. To be sure the overpass got painted. Next time we're downtown, we'll look more closely to note changes. In addition to sprucing up the area, one of the goals is to make it more pedestrian friendly. Today is Friday; weather permitting, it could be a day to explore the Hamburger Square area.

One of the perks of taking lots of photos of Greensboro is that we have plenty to choose from for Zoom backdrops. We are currently using the above photo and the "zoomer" (person), is nestled snugly in the middle with the blue sky overhead and the lights in the background. Doing something silly, like trying to find a good Zoom background adds a little levity to the day. We've even had a request for a photo with trains as a Greensboro-themed background. Well see if we can take one this weekend for our science-teacher friend. Enjoy your weekend!

• read the article, here. 
• more information about Hamburger square from the 1940's, here. 

Guilford Court House in Greensboro

The above photo is of the Guilford Courthouse, built in 1917 at 301 Market Street. It replaced the courthouse building at the corner of Market and Elm Streets as, in the days before air conditioning, that location was too noisy to when windows needed to be open for ventilation. The Jefferson Standard building of the Lincoln Financial complex is no located on the site of the courthouse that pre-dates the above location.

The building material is  Mt. Airy granite and textured terra cotta tile that has the appearance of granite. Harry Barton was the lead architect. The style is Beaux-Arts/Neoclassical Revival.* The government complex has expanded quite a bit since this building was constructed. If you have ever had to go to the Clerk of Courts office, you have been to this building. This is also an early voting site. Often, these buildings go unnoticed, until we need the services therein. This building exudes strength and stability. The doves of peace are a symbol of love and peace and are symboled in many religions. Today we wish you peace and love, whether you are conducting business at the courthouse, or elsewhere. Happy Thursday!

* read more about the courthouse here.

Boxcar Pizza at Boxcar Bar + Arcade

Ten years ago in 2011, when we interviewed Greensboro entrepreneur,  Dennis Quaintance, we talked about "small" being the new "big".  After years of biggie sizes, smaller glasses, plates, and portions have gained popularity. Today's post is one such example. Boxcar Pizza is a tiny space, specifically boxcar-sized, in the South Elm/Lewis Street area. This outdoor pizza kitchen is the perfect place to get some hot food quickly, whether you are in one of the South Elm establishments or just out walking. It is a way to eat without having to go inside an establishment. You can, however, eat inside the Boxcar Bar & Arcade. It serves as the kitchen for the bar and arcade.

This outdoor pizza kitchen serves Neapolitan style pizza with traditional toppings. It also serves unique toppings like bison sausage and pickles. Savory and sweet soft pretzels are available, too. The boxcar option has been popular with people skating at the adjacent pop-up ice rink. On the day we were on site, the Boxcar employee (in the window) was so busy, we didn't interrupt for an interview.  Boxcar is a unique addition to the downtown Greensboro landscape. See the hours, menu, and more, here.

Triad City Beat & Thomas Sayre's Greenway Art

Today is a special day on so many levels. First, a loyal reader suggested we photograph the above Greenway artwork and mentioned that it is especially attractive near sunset. Second, we serendipitously met up with Carolyn de Berry, staff photographer for Triad City Beat (TCB), who was on location taking photos for TCB. Carolyn was with her son, Lliam Robinson.  Third, we found something new being constructed downtown, fulfilling the request of a loyal reader.

Carolyn and Lliam: Carolyn relocated from Connecticut to Greensboro to attend Guilford College, where she majored in psychology.  Also trained as a commercial photographer, Carolyn has been a photographer at TCB since the paper was first established seven years ago. Carolyn looks for good, interesting, and newsworthy Triad subjects to feature. Her photos are published in TCB weekly. The intellectually curious, outdoor-loving Lliam is a student at New Garden Friend's School.

The artwork: The earthcastings, the trio of sculptures to the righ,t are by Raleigh artist Thomas Sayre. Sayre and his team installed them in late November. They are located near Guilford Avenue and Westerwood Tavern on the path of the Downtown Greenway. In the News & Record article about these concrete structures, Sayre is quoted as saying, "The greenway is about finding your way through downtown Greensboro [and i]n some ways I see the cairns as stacked stones that for centuries humans have used to find our way" (Kane, Nov. 17, 2020). The greenway project is progressing nicely and is anticipated to be completed in 2022.

If you are looking something fun to do, you can't beat urban exploring. And, who knows, you just may run into Carolyn and Lliam or David and me! It was so special finally meeting each other.

Tanger Center For The Performing Arts

We love it when readers engage with Greensboro Daily Photo. As an example, yesterday, a reader helped us get to the bottom of the #seethegood initiative that we featured yesterday. See the good  was an idea brought to life by Mary Crowder and her teammates at Barbout Spangle Design in High Point. Initially, they made and attached a sign, with the slogan, on the side of their business. See the Fox 8 segment here.  Another example of reader engagement comes from one of our faithful readers, who doesn't get out as much as she used to. She suggested we do more to feature the growth and changes in Greensboro, and to feature the downtown more. We realized we tend to zoom in on people and one place at a time, but the next sunny day, will head into town to get some skyline shots.

As for today, this is the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts, a big change in downtown Greensboro. Tanger Center had to delay its 2020 opening due to the pandemic and is currently scheduled to open in April. The Tanger Center has been in the making since 2012 and, while some were against tearing down the War Memorial Auditorium at the Coliseum Complex, many in the city were ready for a change. Over 35 million dollars in private donations were received to make the Tanger Center a reality. This spectacular, $85 million facility is now complete. It was named after Steven Tanger, president and CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers. The Tanger family has donated so much to community resources in Greensboro. Tanger Center seats 3,023 and is anticipating being able to open April 2021. The schedule of events is robust; many events are rescheduled from 2020.  You can see if any interest you by perusing their website. Tanger Center is located at the corner of North Elm Street and Abe Brenner Way. Brenner, another local philanthropist, helped establish Brenner Children's Hospital at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

People of Greensboro: Meet Jake at Jacob Raymond Jewelers

Greensboro has many talented jewelers. The first name to come to mind is Schiffman, a family associated with watches and jewelry in Greensboro since 1893. Mark Holder and Delbert Fentress are also talented jewelers . In 2017,  another name was added to the list. Jacob "Jake"  Wosinski opened a jewelry store on McGee Street in downtown Greensboro and his unique designs and precise metalsmithing have been winning national awards ever since. He is a multiple AGTA Spectrum winner. He describes his style as "contemporary estate"- timeless with a modern edge. Jake is a third generation jeweler who started making jewelry at the age of eighteen. He studied jewelry making and apprenticed with other jewelers for 22 years before realizing his dream of having his own studio/showroom.

When standing outside the shop at 121-A West McGee Street, not wearing long sleeves and a mask, Jakes tattoos and long beard are noticeable. As a matter of fact, a passerby might assume he works with his friends at the tattoo studio next door.  When not busy with customers, Jake can be seen in the front corner of the store, right at the window, making jewelry. He has jewelry at all price points; and, if you don't see something already made that meets your needs, Jake will design it. His prices for custom work are really quite reasonable- especially considering the amount of work involved. Jake is so personable and takes great pride in designing and making exactly what his clients want. The name of the shop, Jacob Raymond, is a combination of his and his dad's names. Follow Jacob on Instagram at jacobraymondjewelry or online at jacobraymondjewelry.com 

Well, another year is coming to a close. We hope you have a happy and safe New Year's Eve. Please stop back tomorrow. On January 1st, we will feature our photo-of-the-year, and a highlight a photo from each month in 2020. Then, on Saturday, January 2nd, we again reflect on the past year as part of our anniversary post. Saturday, we start Year 13 of Greensboro Daily Photo. May we continue to find new places, businesses, and people of Greensboro  to share with readers!

Tinsel Town

Yesterday was the last day for Tinsel Town in LeBauer Park. The display featured 50 trees decorated by community organizations. Visitors voted for their favorite trees through each tree's unique QR code. The top five winning trees will receive $500 to donate to the non-profit of their choice. Tinsel town was presented by Kontoon (Wrangler), The Fresh Market, and First Bank. The event was free and open to the public. Sunday was a sunny day and several people were out admiring the display. 

The Tinsel Town event was a creative way to involve community in a fundraiser, to get people out, and to give people something to do. Also, it was conducive to social distancing.  To our knowledge, this was the first year for Tinsel Town. It will be fun to see which trees won. The Page Pirates had a double-wide tree filled from bottom to top with pirate paraphernalia. Hopefully the winners will be announced in the newspaper and the event will be held again next year. There are only three more days until New Year's Eve, but, let's not rush things. Enjoy the whole week.

 

Skating

Today's photo features the "pop-up" skating rink in downtown Greensboro. It is located in the parking lot, just west of Elm Street accessible from Lewis Street. You can see the Eugene Street traffic heading into town above the rink. The rink was not very crowded yesterday, but the middle and high school students out on the rink seemed to be having fun. The Piedmont Winterfest is technically located at 123 West Lewis Street. The rink will be open until January 31st. According to the schedule on their website, skating will be open today from noon until 4pm, closed on Christmas Day and then open again on December 26th from noon-10pm. The cost is $12 for a one hour and forty five minute session and you can pre-purchase tickets, which is a good idea since they have to limit the crowds for safety.

Liberty Oak Restaurant and Bar

Liberty Oak Restaurant and Bar at 100 West Washington Street is a Greensboro institution. It was located in Irving Park for about 20 years and now, has been in their current location downtown for over 20 years. They are one of those restaurants that can feel as comfortable as the "Cheers" bar for those who are regulars. They are very original and special in their offerings and were on the front end of the bistro revolution in Greensboro. Also ahead of a trend,  Liberty Oak has been buying and showing local Greensboro art for decades now. Local artist Denise Landi recalls their showing and purchasing her art in the 1980s.

The above photo features their new signage out in front of their side entrance at the Vernon Building. That building was originally erected in 1883 and, as pointed out on their website, is the oldest building remaining in the Old Greensborough Historic District. Somehow, Liberty Oak just seems to belong here. Here is their fabulous menu, in case you are interested in dining indoors, outdoors, or placing a to-go order. Happy Wednesday!

PART: Connecting Communities!

The Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation, known locally as PART, is still running its routes, even during COVID. They do encourage passengers to remain 6' apart. The above photo was taken a couple of weeks ago, in downtown Greensboro. The bus was headed west on West Washington Street and stopped at Greene Street, just in front of the parking deck. The red, holiday lights really accentuate the graphic design on the bus. The vehicle in the foreground adds a little movement to the night scene.

Here is a link to their official website, in case you want to plan your route or track your bus. As stated on their website, PART was created in 1997 as a means of enhancing transportation in the Piedmont Triad. It is nice to have public transportation options, especially one that helps make it possible to get to other nearby communities. It is a way for Point A to Point B to be done in a way that decreases the carbon footprint. Happy Monday!  

Deep Roots Market Co-Op

Deep Roots Market is a co-op is a full-service grocery store, located downtown at 600 North Euguene street, just around the corner of Joymongers. Deep Roots started in the 1960s as a vegetarian buying club at Guilford College. In the mid 1970s, they moved to a storefront on Spring Garden Street, between the access ramp to Wendover and Merritt Drive. Since 2013, they have been in the downtown location. Anyone can shop at Deep Roots, but you get a discount and access to the big specials if you are a member.

There is a community room in the front of the store and, when gatherings are safe, great events happen there. If you are downtown, possibly at a brewery that doesn't sell food, on a bike ride and in need of a snack, or,  just interested purchasing great food and being part of a caring community, please visit Deep Roots. They have been providing the Greensboro community with organic, bulk, and locally sourced food before the big, corporate whole-food markets were in the area. Have you been? If not, consider stopping by when you are in need of groceries. Happy Thursday!

Downtown First Saturday

The above photo of Hamburger Square in downtown Greensboro was part of the Downtown in December, "Light the Night" event. It is the city's effort to provide a little fun and joy for the community, while remaining Covid-safe. As you can see from the above photo, there weren't many people downtown, but those who were there seemed to be having a very nice time. Behind the inflatables is the fabulous, local gift store, Just Be. Beside Just Be are a couple of restaurants that are reasonably priced and fast at takeout. If you do head downtown, business owners are very mindful of taking precautions to help keep you safe.

Here is a link to all of the events happening in downtown Greensboro in December. If you are leaving the house this weekend, this list will give you some options. Happy Wednesday!

Greensboro Trombone Ensemble

The Greensboro Trombone Ensemble played at the Light the Night event in downtown Greensboro this past weekend. While the Festival of Lights was cancelled for this year, there were a few groups set up throughout town and it was very easy to socially distance and meander up and down South Elm Street listening to music. The Light the Night had sort of a "First Friday" feel.

UNCG has a really strong School of Music and so there are many ensembles for different instruments and genres in Greensboro. Under normal circumstances, students are always offering concerts as part of their course and degree requirements. It was a real treat to hear the brass ensemble with the sound bouncing between Schiffman's Jewelry Store and Triad Stage. If you ever get a chance to hear the Trombone Ensemble, you will be in for a treat. Perhaps you already have heard them.

Have a great Tuesday.

Hudson Hill, H.Lee Waters Films, & Cone Denim

Today, Hudson's Hill American Made will host a very special event. Jonathan Ingram with Cone Denim (on left above) will be at Hudson's Hill with a small pop up of products made with denim from Cone Mills. Jonathan has a wealth of knowledge on textile history and branding. He knows all the great details, like how the shifting of the wooden floors in a textile factory, like White Oak, affects the appearance of the denim. Ben Singer (@benesing on the right) will show video footage from the H. Lee Waters films about Cone Denim. Bene will present at noon and then again at 4pm. Each presentation lasts about two hours. Bene is a multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer, and video producer, and more.  If you are involved in the local, live music scene, you probably know Bene. This is such a special opportunity for Greensboro.

H. Lee Waters (1902- 1997) was a photographer from Lexington, NC. When the Depression hit and people stopped getting photos made, Waters started making movies of people in North Carolina communities and then going back to the communities and selling tickets for people to see themselves and their community in the movies. Duke University houses the Waters archives. Bene will treat us to a showing of some of the footage, specifically the videos about Cone Mills.

In the middle, is Evan Morrison, one of the owners of Hudson's Hill and master leatherworker. Give Evan a piece of leather and he can look at it and calculate the size of the purse that can be made from it- and then make that purse. He repairs, creates, and designs. Many of the items at Hudson't Hill are his craftsmanship. Evan will be at the event. A fourth person, who will literally contribute to the local flavor of this event, is Randy Barnes @feedumdogs. Randy will be giving away his gourmet hot dogs (while supplies last).  Drop in today to Hudson's Hill at 527 South Elm Street and check out the event. Masks are required and they will monitor crowds. As you can see in the photo, the screen is in place and ready for your viewing pleasure.

Just Be... the Place To Be On Small Business Saturday 2020!

Today is Small Business Saturday and the featured business is Just Be, located in downtown Greensboro at southwest corner of Elm and McGee Streets. Just Be, established in 2005,  is a gift shop filled with items that have interesting stories behind them. You may recognize Kathryn Hashemi. While she has only owned Just Be for about two years, she was an employee for two years prior. Kathryn does a wonderful job of finding a balance between international, fair trade items, arts and crafts from American artists, and items produced by local artists. She has a discerning eye and carefully curates items she knows her customers will like. If you shop at Just Be often, Kathryn has probably greeted you and then shown you something she knows you will like.

Kathryn and her staff have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to keep the shop strong. The store's social media presence has really helped. Also, her husband, an expert tailor, makes the beautiful masks they sell in the store and was well ahead of the trend to make masks not only functional, but also an attractive fashion accessory. If you are local, and out celebrating small businesses today, please stop in an say hello to Kathryn and her staff. She has is offering a discount of 15% for purchases over $100. If you aren't already, you will probably become a regular!

Small Business Friday

Today, you have two wonderful opportunities. First you can shop the small businesses in Downtown and around-town Greensboro. There are so many artists and locals with their own businesses. The above photo was taken of some happy shoppers who may have just purchased something from Design Archives or Just Be, two fabulous, local stores at the corner of Elm and McGee Streets. Please visit these local stores before shopping online and shipping in. Greensboro has so many wonderful small businesses.

A second opportunity is the "Really, Really Free Market" It will be held from 10am-3pm today at 1417 Glenwood Avenue. Ayaana  Aytch is leading this event where you bring things you want to see go to someone who needs them and you are free to take what you need. Nobody asks any questions about who qualifies. By virtue of the fact that you attend makes you eligible to give and to receive. At 2pm, Ayaana will be leading a yoga session. Bring your mask and your unwanted clothes and household items that you think someone else would appreciate having. It is so wonderful seeing things get re-homed. You can cap off the afternoon with a cup of tea at Vida Pour Tea on State Street. So many options! Hopefully, you have a little time to yourself today. Enjoy! See you out and about!

View from Lewis Street

Today's photo is a bit whimsical. It is the view of the back alley area, behind the 6oo block of South Elm Street, as seen from Lewis Street. If you are out walking through Greensboro, or any city, it is fun to look at the places that aren't usually in the public eye. As you can see here, there used to be a Wade's Dry Cleaning. As our grandparents would say, "Before your time...". So often, when we post a photo of a sign from yesteryear, someone contacts us to let us know about their relatives, the people who owned the now-forgotten establishment. So, if there are any Wades reading, or anyone who worked for the Wades, we'd love to hear from you. The bottom two-thirds of the photo is the wavy artwork on the wall of the Bearded Goat, an establishment that bills itself as a "classy, artistic, dive bar"; hence, the artwork. 

As we all struggle to remain healthy during this COVID-19 era, please know there are business along Elm Street doing everything they can to provide safe, contactless shopping experiences. Often, you can call ahead and have things ready to pick up curbside. In the meantime, if you are out walking, stop and find a view you have never seen before. Point A to Point B doesn't always need to be a straight line! Happy Saturday.

300 Block of South Elm

The 300 block of South Elm Street is filled with great businesses and fun things to do. The merchants are taking every effort to be COVID safe. The above photo features The View in the foreground and Cheesecakes by Alex behind the pedestrian crosswalk sign at the back of the photo. The awnings and streetlights have the area looking a bit like Europe. The trees are losing their yellow leaves quickly. If you want to see foliage, you'd best be getting outside soon. The recent 5+ inches of rain have pelted away many of the leaves. Still, these fall scenes are beautiful too behold.

Do you notice that holiday wreaths and snowflake lights have already been installed? And with it getting dark early,  it's beginning to look a lot like.... December. The last we checked, the Festival of Lights was still a "go" in downtown Greensboro. It is scheduled to be held on Friday, December 4, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm. Of course wear your mask and check schedules Otten to make sure it will still be held. In the meantime, anything you can do to purchase and order local from the Elm Street business and beyond, please do so. Happy Saturday!

Vote!

All is quiet on the corner of Lewis Street and the 600 block of South Elm Street. At this storefront awaits a new business, the owners have brown paper over the windows and a message to VOTE! It will be interesting to see the election results for Guilford County. Our county has voted Democratic in the last four presidential elections and Republican in 2000- when George W. Bush was running. 

Hopefully, you have either already voted, or you intend to vote today. There is no school today. If you are home with children, today is a good day to teach them about civic rights and responsibilities. Have a great Tuesday. Regardless of election results, it will be nice to see the campaign signs disappear from the lawns of Greensboro. If you are working at the polls, thank you for your service!

Corner of South Elm and West McGee

Rainy days can make for very beautiful photos. The above photo was taken at the corner of South Elm Street and West McGee on Saturday night. It was almost evening. Part of South Elm Street was closed to cars so that pedestrians could walk around and eat outside without having cars in the way. Unfortunately, the rain sent people home early. The above photo was taken in front of Little Brother Brewers at 348 South Elm Street. This small brewery bills itself at a boutique brewery. Little Brother has been downtown for about five years now. The owners of the brewers have written a very thorough piece about the people behind the business (see here). The Collie and McCoy families have worked tirelessly to give this establishment a cozy, hometown feel.  On warm days, they open all the windows, put out the benches, and it is as if patrons are outside while being protected from the elements. Here's to a good week for all of us! Happy Monday!