Greensboro Daily Photo

Greensboro History Museum, Former First Presbyterian Church

Yesterday, the Greensboro Bound Literary Festival held sessions at the Greensboro History Museum. Formerly, the History Museum was the First Presbyterian Church. Seeing this view of the entrance of the museum, filled with people, reminded us of what it must have looked like when the building was a church. It was built in 1892, 84 years after Greensboro was established. First Presbyterian relocated to 617 North Elm Street in 1929.

One of the sessions held in the history museum was, "Calling on Ancestors: Writing the Past into the Present." Tyree Daye, Zelda Lockhart, and David Nicholson shared stories of ancestors across generations. The presentation seemed perfect for the history museum where past meets present on a daily basis. The audience listening to  the session in the intimate auditorium is not unlike what it must have felt like to attend a church sermon in the building. The space is a Greensboro treasure.

Happy Sunday!

Yes, Greensboro, There Is a Cybertruck

On one of our walks around town, hoping for serendipity to land a photo for Greensboro Daily Photo, lo and behold a Tesla cybertruck drove up Elm Street at the intersection with Washington. This forest green cybertruck with temporary tags was seen on May 15th (2024). We love the contrast of the futuristic vehicle with the weathered brick facade of the "Thousands of Prints, Plenty of Frames" shop. Starting prices range from $61,000 to $100,000 depending on which model you choose. Read more about this electric vehicle HERE. We wish we'd had a chance to see the driver, but the windows are pretty dark.

We'll be back downtown today to attend more events with the FREE, Greensboro Bound Literary Festival. What a great way to spend a rainy day. Most of the events and the great conversations will take place between the Central Library, History Museum, the Cultural Center, and Scuppernong Books. We're planning to go by and see what remains of the News and Record Building. That will be a hard look. My how times have changed. Digital virtual news, electric cars, we're wondering what is next for 36.0734ºN, 79.7932ºW.

Happy Saturday!

 

Greensboro BOUND Literary Festival 2024

The Greensboro BOUND Literary Festival is upon us. The above photo was taken at Scuppernong Books yesterday. They have a display of books, the works of the authors who are coming to town. It starts today and events will be happening until Sunday. See HERE for a schedule and more information. James McBride, author of "The Color of Water" and "The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store" is speaking tonight on UNCG's campus. Pre-registration was required and it is full. 

In 2018, the festival was co-founded by Brian Lampkin, co-owner of Scuppernong Books, and Steve Colyer a retired telecom executive. The authors and their presentations, or conversations, and workshops represent a wide diversity of topics and genres. The author selection is also quite diverse.  The festival organizers have worked hard on the logistics, in an effort for attendees to make it from Point A to Point B (see here).  Greensboro is so lucky to have this great event centered around BOOKS! Year 7 looks pretty fabulous. 

Happy Thursday!

Layers of Downtown

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

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

The LeBauer Splash Pad

As the weather gets warmer, downtown just seems to come alive. The photo above features the splashed or spray ground in LeBauer Park. It is open from May to September 8am-10pm. Children love romping in the water while parents sit around watching. The children have so much fun. It is also known as the VF Seasonal Plaza fountain. See this list of local splash pads. Perhaps you could set a goal to visit all of them with your children this summer.

These water features are just so fun and a good prelude to a vacation to the beach. For those with children, school will be winding up soon. We'll be on the lookout for some more summer-fun ideas!

Happy Wednesday!

LeBauer Park

Wrangler, Lee, Kantoor

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

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

Happy Tuesday!

*reference and more information HERE.

Karenni Dancers at the Greensboro Cultural Center

Last night,  First Friday celebrations were held in downtown Greensboro. The above photo was taken in the cultural arts center, where there was music, art, and dance throughout the building.  The above dancers are part of the Karenni ethnic group, a group with roots in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. Greensboro's population has diversified significantly over the last couple of decades. According to Guilford County Schools, more than 118 languages are spoken by students throughout the district, with Spanish, Vietnamese, Urdu, Arabic, and French among the most widely spoken. The languages spoken by the Karenni are Phare Pro Karen and Northern Pro. For younger generations, dance is a way to stay connected to community and is a universal language. These dancers were so talented. We know they are making their families proud.

If you want to learn more about the cultures of Greensboro, the Greensboro Cultural Center is a great place to go to learn about diversity in our city.

Happy Saturday! 

First Friday, CVA, & Kimberly Terbush

It is First Friday in downtown Greensboro and May should be a good one. The weather will be warm and dry, and shops and galleries will be open. The above photo, from the March First Friday, features Kim Terbush who- among other things- is the gallery coordinator for the Center for Visual Artists. The gallery, located at 200 North Davie Street, will have their annual 100 x 100 fundraiser. 100 artists pieces will be available and for purchase at $100. If all pieces are sold, that will be $10,000 for the gallery. Fingers crossed!

Kim come to CVA from the Weatherspoon Art Gallery in Greensboro. History, art, fundraising, coordinating loans and traveling exhibitions, consulting, lecturing, and providing workshops are a few of her many skills. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, Greensboro is lucky to have here. She is already doing great things for CVA and we can't wait to see tonight's exhibit. Many of the artists will be on site and this is a great opportunity to interact with not only artists, but also patrons of the arts. You may want to consider joining CVA, for as little as $60 a year, you can be connected to a very special group. If you see Kim before we do, tell her she's up on GDP. 

Happy Friday!

Bicycling in Greensboro

Happy May 1st! Today's theme for the City Daily Photo community is "bicycles."  Participating cities around the world are asked to post a photo related to bicycling in their respective communities. The above photo features the Cairn's Course art of the Downtown where Artist Thomas Sayre's artwork is featured. It is Phase 4 of the rail line. It was completed in 2021. Sayre, a Raleigh based artist, used earth and soil from this very area to cast the sculptures.*

Many people who work for the City of Greensboro are involved in the biking community. Bicycling in Greensboro is an organization that works to make Greensboro a more biking friendly community. The Greensboro Community Bike Shop is also really involved in helping people gain access to bicycles and to learn to ride- especially marginalized members of the community. They help people learn to repair their own bicycles. The above event (last spring) was a bike tune-up/repair clinic held on the greenway. Fun was had by all and tune ups were made free of charge. If you are a novice rider and want to ride in a group ride, the Easy Rider ride departs from Cycles de Oro on Tuesday evenings (see here). There are many cycling groups in Greensboro for all skill levels. All the bike shops can help you get connected to a group that is perfect for you.

Happy Wednesday, the First of May!

* read more here.

Chestnut Grove Church

Chestnut Grove Church is located in King, North Carolina, which is located north of Winston Salem, off of Highway 52. A few weeks ago, they were in Greensboro and their activity bus was parked down near the train depot. We loved the fact that the Lincoln Financial Group building was in the background, firmly anchoring the photo in Greensboro. 

Chestnut Grove Church was founded in 1974. This is their 50 year anniversary year so maybe the congregation is doing something really special. Congratulations on hitting that milestone year, and come back and visit Greensboro often. This is a part of town that is really starting to grow. The train depot area may have a completely different look, next time you are in town. Read more about the initiative for the depot HERE.

Happy Sunday!

Chestnut Grove

Chestnut Grove

Jakes Diner on South Elm Street

It has been a while since we've featured Jakes diner. We first featured Jake's in 2011 at the Wendover Avenue location (see HERE). We've wanted to get to the downtown location and, yesterday, we finally had that chance. The above photo features the most recent, Jake's, located at 611 South Elm Street. It is celebrating its one year anniversary. We visited yesterday at breakfast. The breakfast food is fabulous as is the service. As you can tell from this photo of Chris, the wait staff is happy and works hard to make sure you have a great dining experience. The downtown location is to South Elm Street what the Cheers Bar is to Boston. Chris says on the weekends, customers who sit at the bar all know each other and have the best time together. He told us that the the cooks have been there for a long time and he was very complimentary of their cooking skills and their loyalty to the restaurant. Chris himself has roots to the restaurant and the owners that go back almost a decade.

It is getting harder and harder to find a good, home-cooked breakfast. If you are looking for one and want service with a smile, head to Jake's. If you are dining alone, nothing beats eating at the counter. Those leather seats are super comfortable!

Happy Saturday! 

Double Oaks

Double Oaks is a beauty of an Air B&B, located at the corner of Friendly Avenue and North Mendenhall Street. The last we heard, this turn-of-the-century colonial revival mansion was still for sale. James and Amanda Keith have owned the property since 2016 and it appears they are ready to move on. According to the Double Oaks website, the young couple is also restoring the NuWray Hotel in Burnsville, NC. Built in 1833, it is said to be North Carolina's oldest continually-operating hotel. From casual to elegant, they hold so many events here. Hopefully, the new owners will be as community oriented as the current ones. Located just a hop, skip, and a jump from Greensboro College and UNCG and right across the street from the First Baptist Church, the Air B&B surely stays busy. At least, we hope so. Stop by this morning for a cup of Borough Coffee and have a look at this gem of a place.

Happy Wednesday!

Between Greene and Eugene Streets

The other night, we were walking from Green Street in the direction of Eugene Street, and found ourselves on Paisley. It is very near Joymongers, in the heart of that area just north of downtown. It is still a street with mostly houses and a neighborhood feel to it. This house at 135 Paisley Street was built in 1926. We're guessing the street is named for Reverend William Denny Paisley, Greensboro's first Presbyterian minister. The original First Presbyterian Church is not far from here. Reverend Paisley did not actually live on Paisley Street. He lived on West Market Street in a house that was eventually moved to 409 Hillcrest Drive in 1929, to make room for the Preyer Building.*

This street looks pretty during the day, especially when the hydrangeas are in bloom. However, is is also charming at night. Most of the houses on the street have similar architecture. Most of this row of houses has been converted to apartments. However, they still have the feel of a house and you can walk to almost everything. It seems to be a quiet street as we rarely see people coming and going from the houses. It is the weekend. Consider heading downtown, or any neighborhood and explore away.

Happy Friday!

*reference and more information.

Judy Woodruff, Bryan Series Speaker

Tuesday night, Judy Woodruff closed out the GUILFORD College 2023-2024 Bryan Series. She is an American broadcast journalist whose career in public television began in 1970. She has been a CNN anchor and senior-correspondent, a Washington correspondent for PBS, anchored the PBS News Hour until 2022, and so much more. Currently, she is on a reporting project to better understand the political divide in the United States. She talked a great deal about this project, entitled, "America at a Crossroads." She showed clips from interviews which were clear examples of left and right learning ideas and positions. She explained how this division is a layered issue and there is animosity coming from both sides.

Judy Woodruff has North Carolina ties. She identifies as an "Army brat" and she finished 6th grade in Roanoke Rapids, NC. She also attended Meredith College and is a Graduate of Duke University. Greensboro is so lucky to have the Bryan series as it is an opportunity for us to hear deep thinkers and people who are looking at issues from a national and international level. The above photo was taken as she was leaving the stage. The speakers for next year have not yet been announced. It is always fun to see the list for the first time

Happy Thursday!

Nostalgic Display in Design Archives

What, if anything, do you collect? Nostalgia can be a big factor. Some people like iconic designs like the above display at Design Archives, a consignment shop for handmade and vintage items, located in the 300 block of South Elm Street. The store attracts quite a crowd, especially  on weekends when people come downtown to eat and spend time with friends. When we were in Design Archives recently a young couple (perhaps early 30s) was perusing the booths and stopped to look at the above items. One commented that his grandmother had a phone just like the red one. And the conversation continued about other items they'd seen in their childhood. 

Meanwhile, there were other young shoppers trying on vintage clothing, looking for sweatshirts with just the right slogan, and perusing vintage record albums. Even if you don't collect anything, vintage stores are a way of connecting with the past and helping us realize just how much society has changed. The younger generations cannot fathom a time when conversations were tethered by a phone cord. Displays like the one above are such great conversation starters. If you had to write a short story based on the things you see in the above photo, imagine the possibilities. Other spots that evoke other times are Elsewhere Museum in the 600 block of South Elm Street, and Reconsidered Goods, located on Spring Garden Street behind the Food Lion on Market Street. We hope you had a good weekend, with some time set aside to nurture your creativity.

Happy Monday!

The Downtown Depot on East Washington Street

The J. Douglas Galyon Depot. on East Washington Street,  was built in 1927. It is a transportation hub for trains and busses. We were walking by today and noticed that the Depot has new signage on the smoke stack. Earlier this week, Downtown Greensboro, Inc. held its annual State of Downtown Greensboro event. One of the big announcements centered around initiatives for the Depot. The goal is to make the Depot a destination with more businesses, shopping, and events. 31 new businesses opened in downtown Greensboro in 2023 and space is at a premium.*

Yesterday was such a nice day, we walked to the Depot property to see the changed on property. As you can see, the brick smokestack now has signage on it. Also, about 15 trees along this hill have been cut down. We're wondering what they will be replaced with. It was such a lovely day. We were going to go inside the train depot building. However, that blue sky kept us wanting to walk and walk outside around town. We'll head inside the depot and share it with you on another day. If the Depot gets developed with the vision Downtown Greensboro, Inc. has for it, it will be yet another example of how East Greensboro is showing tremendous growth.

Happy Saturday!

* reference and more information, HERE.

Strolling along South Mendenhall Street on a Sunny Spring Afternoon

We realize we've been featuring a lot of buildings and houses lately, but the temperature topped 80º yesterday, We just had to walk. We spent time in College Hill, near Friendly and Market. The above photo is of 102 South Mendenhall, The Wilson-Andrews House, a beauty of a home built in 1859. It is believed to be only one of 12 homes in Greensboro, remaining standing, and built before 1880.*

When built, the house was originally a single family dwelling, built by Rev. Wilson who bought the land from the Bumpass family. Over the years, the home has had several exterior enhancements, like the bay windows and the addition of decorative woodwork.   The home has long been divvied up into student apartments. However, the current owners have spared no expense with that elaborate, exterior paint job. That orange color is a stand out. Also, as hinted in today's photo, the landscaping is nice with camellias still in bloom and azaleas popping out.  This is the time of year when the scenery changes weekly. Please get out and explore Greensboro. Let us know what you find.

Happy Tuesday!

*read more in the News & Record article from 1990.

Garrison Keillor Returns to the Carolina Theatre

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

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

Happy Friday!

 

Tina

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

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

Happy Wednesday!

Luxe Soulfood & Cocktails

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

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

Happy Wednesday!

Along Elm Street

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

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

Happy Friday!

SIX@Tanger Center for the Performing Arts

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

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

Happy Monday!

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

Bird's Eye View of the City of Greensboro

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

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

Happy Thursday!

* see here for map available for download.

First Friday Collage Event

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

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

Happy Monday!

Justice Henry Frye and Shirley Frye Statue in Center City

This past Tuesday, February 20th, a statue was unveiled in Center City Park in honor of Justice Henry E. Frye and Shirley T. Frye. This inspiring Greensboro couple attended the event with their family, Governor Roy Cooper, Mayor Nancy Vaughn, and other prominent Greensboro citizens. It is so appropriate that both appear on the statue together as they are a team, united in their efforts to serve community and to live meaningful lives. Henry Frye has achieved many firsts in his life, Among them, he was the first African-American chief justice in North Carolina; the first elected to the North Carolina General Assembly; and the first to graduate from the UNC School of Law.  Both graduated from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 1953. He and Mrs. Frye have both been involved in a number of civic causes throughout their lives.

The statue was funded by the Bryan Foundation and created by artist/sculptor Maria Kirby Smith. We were told she had the Fryes model several outfits before their settling on the ones in the sculpture above. On Mrs. Frye's left shoulder is a butterfly pin, adding a touch of her personal flair to the piece. We learned that Chief Justice Frye has his own personal style. He can articulately summarize a meeting and do so in rhyme. While we were admiring the statue, the above, unidentified couple came to see it. We love the way their holding hands echoes the Fryes' gesture. Truly, the Fryes are a team.

Happy Saturday!

Transform GSO

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

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

Happy Tuesday, dear readers.

 

* read the article HERE.

Holden Ringer is Walking Across America

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

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

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

Happy Monday!

City Greensboro

How lucky the businesses and residents of Greensboro are to have so many great resources in our community. Two of those resources are right here in today's photo: Latoya Harris (left) and Amanda Smith (right). Ms Harris is an Organizational Development Manager and Ms. Smith is a Talent Acquisition Consultant for the City of Greensboro. Their offices are at 300 West Washington Street, where they work to help the people and culture of Greensboro. Currently, more that 3,500 people are employed by the City of Greensboro and they attended yesterday's career expo in the Elliot University Center at UNCG. The expo was set up to talk to students at the Middle College at UNC Greensboro about career options with the city. Here is a link to the City of Greensboro's website, in case you are interested in working for them. 

Happy Saturday!

 

Happy Valentines Day

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

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

Happy Valentine's Day! 

Window Displays on Elm Street

Do you love to window shop? Some cities are knows for window displays, especially NYC. Downtown Greensboro, on Elm Street, some stores consistently have inspiring window displays Oscar Oglethorpe Optometry (OOO), on 226 South Elm Street, is one such place.The above photo features their current window display. The eyes play with the theme of what happens inside the store. The hearts are a nod to Valentine's Day. The pops of pink brighten up an otherwise gray winter day. The multi- talented Rafa, an Oscar Oglethorpe employee, designed the window.

Oscar Oglethorpe is located in the Ellis Stone building, which was constructed in 1949. It was a locally-owned department store back when downtown department stores were all the rage across America. Its style is modernist and it was put on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. This building is a fine example of downtown Greensboro's efforts to maintain the integrity of the look of Elm Street of yesteryear, while updating interiors to keep stores relevant to the expectations of shoppers. When the lighting is right, this OOO building makes a backdrop for a photo shoot. The above pair just happened to walk into view as we were photographing the facade. Head downtown and have a look for yourself.

Happy Saturday!

300 Block of South Elm Street

As we head into the weekend, you will surely see us around town taking photos. The above photo features the 300 block of South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro. This is one of our favorite sections. We love getting a cup of coffee from the Green Bean and sitting there mapping out our weekend plans. It isn't First Friday, but there will still be plenty to do. We love buildings/businesses that date when they were established. The Green Bean says "Est 2002" and Natty Greene's says "Eat. 2004." We're not so sure we would have guessed that the Green Bean pre-dates Natty's by two years.

Also, we remember when Grey's Tavern was an art supply store; however, we don't remember when Grey's was established (they need an "Est. 19XX sign). The Grey family has a lot of property along Elm Street, and are a prominent family. We don't know if they still own the tavern, but are glad they still have their name on it. We've been around long enough to know Sylvia Grey, who owned the building that now houses Elsewhere Museum. Thoughts of her work ethic and determination  put a smile on our face, every time we walk past Grey's tavern or Elsewhere. 

Have a happy weekend. Have you noticed hours and minutes of daylight are increasing?

Happy Friday! Happy exploring.

Forge- Dear Greensboro

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

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

Happy Wednesday!

My Fair Lady at Tanger Center

Seeing a performance at Tanger Center for the Performing Arts is the perfect activity for a cool, drizzly Sunday afternoon. Yesterday, we had the good fortune to land a 2nd row ticket to see "My Fair Lady." The acting and the scenery of this Broadway revival show were superb. Photography isn't allowed during performances, but the above screen was up before the performance began. It is a nice example of a scene around London in the early 20th century. 

Tanger Center held its first public performance in September 2021. On the one hand, it is hard to believe it has already been open two and a half years. On the other hand, it is hard to believe there was a time when it was not in Greensboro. It is such a key venue for bringing top shows, concerts, and lectures to the area. It seats 3,000 beautifully and was made possible through a combination of donations and public funding. Here is a link to upcoming events. February kicks off with the percussion group STOMP this weekend.  Sometimes it is possible to get discounted tickets at Tanger. 

Happy Monday!

 

 

Kress Building

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

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

Fresh Market Headquarters

The Fresh Market Corporate Headquarters is located at 300 North Greene Street, downtown Greensboro, in the Wells Fargo Tower. This is where employment opportunities are made available, customer service is located, and where the of the managing as the company takes place. According to the Business Journals, the Wells Fargo building sold in December 2021 for 30 million dollars. It is a 21 story class-A building and was built in 1990. It looks like the exterior in granite. To be sure is is well maintained and an attractive office building.

According to this article in 2019, the Fresh Market consolidated their office space here and expanded in Greensboro, investing over 5 million dollars, and  adding 53 jobs. The company began as a single store here and it now has 160 stores in 22 states.  A retail group based in Chile owns 67% of Fresh Market (read more here). We're betting this arrangement is a win/win because when it is winter in the United States, it is summer in Chile, making it very convenient to get good produce in winter. 

Happy Wednesday!