Greensboro Daily Photo

West Market United Methodist Church Andrews High School

Yesterday was the Holiday Parade in downtown Greensboro. The above photo features Andrews High School turning off of Greene Street onto Market, approaching Elm Street. West Market Street United Methodist Church can be seen in the background. It is the closest church to the Market/Elm intersection where the streets divide north/south and east/west. When the community comes downtown and families have a fun, save time together downtown, it is a moving and spiritual feeling. 

It you are looking for a downtown church, West Market Street offers traditional, modern, music, and radio services and has been a Greensboro institution for nearly 200 years. That romanesque building has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985. It is located by the courthouse. We hope you find time in December to explore downtown, and, today, the West Market Street UMC is having a carol service at 11:00 am, if you are looking for a way to kickstart the holiday season. Tonight, from 5:30- 6:45, is the start of their 3-week group to get questions answered about advent and the Christmas season in general. This is a very dynamic church. As for the Andrews High marching band, in the foreground, they are dynamic and amazing too. Yesterday was an all-around great day in Greensboro.

Happy Sunday!

Festival of Lights 2023

The Festival of Lights last night in downtown Greensboro did not disappoint. People came out to celebrate in droves and the drizzle did not dampen the festivities. From LeBauer and Center City Park on North Elm to Gate City Boulevard and South Elm, businesses were open and people were strolling along the streets. The above photo features a trio of carolers in LeBauer Park with the Janet Echelman's 95 by 65 foot aerial sculpture as a backdrop.  This is the second iteration of her "Where We Met"  sculpture that continues to light up the night sky over the park.

Last night, there was plenty of entertainment in LeBauer Park, including a holiday market and an ice skating rink. The park remained busy even after the tree lighting took place just before 7:00 pm. Performers entertained everyone until the event drew to a close at 9:00 pm. Here is a link listing many of the performers throughout the night. December, the month with the least amount of daylight in the northern hemisphere, is a time when to work a little harder to bring light into the lives of each other. Last night was just such an event. Will we see you at the parade today?

Happy Saturday!

Howl-O-Ween 2023

Yesterday, Country Park was filled with Trick-or-Treaters and their canine companions. Dogs came dresses as everything from ladybugs and been (above) to bats and superheroes. The little dogs seemed to love  strutting their costumes and the bigger ones seemed to tolerate them well. The event was sponsored by Guilford County Animal Services and Greensboro Parks and Recreation. This was  the third year for the event. Dogs got treats, too. 

In addition to getting out and enjoying the lovely fall weather and getting exercise, many businesses and organizations that offer services for dogs were on hand too. When we were there, all dogs were well behaved and everyone was complying with having their dogs on a leash. There were even food trucks on hand to feed hungry adults. Every indication is that the event will be held again next year. Let's hope between now and then, we can get the shelters cleared of as many animals as possible. Events like Howl-o-Ween remind us to adopt, not shop!

Happy Monday!

Westerwood String Band

Yesterday, we featured the Westerwood Chili Cook-off on Greensboro Daily Photo. The annual event was held in Lake Daniel Park near Benjamin Parkway. Today's photo is of the Westerwood String Band that played at the event. Carol Thompson, who is dancing in the above photo, has been coordinating music for the chili cook off  for years. The group  sometimes practices at a member's house and at other times at open jams. One place you are likely to see these band members is the jam organized by the Piedmont Old-Time Society, currently meeting the first and third Thursday evening at the Continental Club.

The band's genre is old-time, or string band, music which has been played in North Carolina since the Scots-Irish settled here. True to old-time music, there are fiddles, banjos, guitars, and an upright (double) bass, all acoustic instruments. You may recognize Carol as she is frequently seen dancing, down front and off to the side, at events like the North Carolina Folk Festival- when old-time musicians are performing. The boards with cornmeal help with movement and obtaining a percussive sound. Sunday was a lovely day for the event and the music added a yet another layer of liveliness to the already upbeat, community-building event. We're wondering where the Westerwood String Band will play next.

Happy Wednesday! 

Crafted, The Art of the Taco, Along South Elm

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

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

Happy Thursday!

West February 1 Place in Downtown Greensboro

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

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

Happy Wednesday!

Ballet Folklorico at Art in the Arboretum

The Art in the Arboretum this past Sunday was nothing short of spectacular. It was the perfect combination of arts and crafts, music, and dancing. Also adding to the event was the fact that some of the flowers and foliage were very showy in their beauty, and the weather was spectacular. Fifty artists were selected to sell their crafts and there were three stages of entertainment, and entertainment was free. Greensboro Beautiful partners with the City of Greensboro to enhance the beauty of our community. Mebane Ham coordinated the event. A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Mebane Ham is an independent public relations and communications professional. Fiddle and Bow, founded in 1981, sponsored and staffed one of the stages. 

The above photo features one group of performers from the Ballet Folklorico Mexican Tradition of Julio Ruiz. Their goal is to bring greater awareness and understanding of the Latino culture, especially in Greensboro. The audience, young and old alike, was mesmerized by their dancing. The clothing was beautiful and the way they moved skirts and bandanas in sync. This stage, for international music and dance, is a permanent structure in the arboretum- just waiting to be used for other special events.  Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 6, 2024 if you want to be part of this event next year

Happy Tuesday!

Pow Wow 2023

The Guilford Native American Association held its 46th annual Pow Wow 2023  at Country Park. While it wasn't a religious event, it did feel very spiritual having people dancing on  land their ancestors once inhabited. Greensboro once served as the site where Keyauwee and Saura once met. The above photo shows some of the dancers waiting to make a grand entry at 7:00 pm last night. Today, the event starts at 11:00 am, with Grand Entries starting at 1:00 pm. Winners of competitive events will be announced today.

If you have never attended before, you are welcome; however, here is a list of Pow Wow etiquette. For example, you should not take photos of individual people without their permission. It has been a few years since we've been able to attend and we noticed a lot more people wearing original beadwork.All of the original beading and jingle dresses were simply breathtaking. There were also many vendors. Everything from clothing, to drums, to food, to jewelry are available. We ate collard wraps with pear chow-chow and they were delicious.

Happy Sunday!

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

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

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

Happy Friday!

North Carolina Folk Festival 2023

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

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

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

Happy Tuesday!

Autumn Will Be Here Before We Know It!

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

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

Happy Monday!

Downtown Greensboro: First Friday July 2023

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

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

Happy Friday!

 

Sherwood: From the Kirkwood Parade to the Greensboro Community Swim Association's City Meet

The above photo features several members of the Sherwood group at the Kirkwood Fourth of July event. They placed first as entrants in the Kirkwood Parade and the young guy in the middle is holding their trophy. We think they must be Kirkwood community members who are also affiliated with Sherwood Swim and Racquet Club. The Sherwood swim team took top honors at the 2022 Greensboro Community Swim Association (CSA) City Meet. We're betting they want another top prize at CSA City Meet. Greensboro has several strong teams, though. We'll know on Saturday.

We are reminded that the CSA City Meet gets underway at the Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC)  today. City Meet brings swimmers gather from all over the area. For three days, you see teams having their end-of-swim season bonding moments and efforts of personal records. From the CSA parade to the medaling and closing ceremonies, it is quite a special summer tradition in Greensboro. The Community Swim Association Championship was established in 1958, sixty five years ago. The Kirkwood Fourth of July Parade was established 74 years ago- in 1949. The Sherwood Swim and Raquet Club was estalblished in 1961. That is a lot of history and combined years of tradition. The way we see it, everyone who participates is a winner.

Happy Thursday!

Happy July 4th, 2023

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

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

Happy Tuesday, Happy Fourth of July!

The Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival

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

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

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

Happy Monday!

The Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival

Happy Summer Solstice Event! It will be held today in Lindley Park and the Greensboro Arboretum from 2:00- 10:00 pm. This festival is a fun way to spend an afternoon. The above photo was taken a few years ago and shows you the great length people go through to dress up and make the event fun. Not only performers, but everyone is encouraged to dress as fairies and sprites .

The solstice event was started in 2005. According to their website, "Mission: We aim to create an experience for our festival-goers that blends local artisans, performers and budding entrepreneurs with a little bit of magic and a lot of love, opening up imaginations to the possibilities in each of us." The event is so much fun and a chance to be playful and joyful, something that is proven to keep us healthy. It is also a fabulous opportunity to get great photos. The festival closes with a fire finale which is breathtaking in the dark. Children are absolutely mesmerized.

On another note, we have been members of the City Daily Photo community for the past 15 years. Cities all over the world post a photo a day of their city. The first of the month is theme day and the July theme is "climate". Our Summer Solstice photo fits perfectly with the theme. In Greensboro, the weather today is expected to be between 68º and 91º. So, if you are coming out to the festival, be prepared for a little bit of everything and find a way to protect yourself from the sun and to stay hydrated. We can't wait and don't care what the weather does. We're ready!

Happy Saturday!

The Unbridled Joy of a Child

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

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

Happy Friday... preparing for takeoff!

Dunleath Porchfest 2023

Today is porchfest in the Dunleath neighborhood of Greensboro. Located just north of the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market and Yanceyville Street, Dunleath is a cohesive neighborhood. They have activities and events that evoke that feeling of the neighborhoods of yesteryear. Big front porches and generous sidewalks help bring people together. This is the kind of neighborhood where everyone knows each other's names, interests, and needs. Recently, on May 6th, they held a neighborhood yard sale. On August 1st, neighbors will come together to celebrate national night out.

Today, from 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, you will hear performances with a festival-like feel. And, best of all, the event is free and open to the public. Music in Sternberger Park  will conclude the event. Neighbors open their porches to musicians, who offer their talent for the event. Every street becomes a venue. Organizers try to space the bands out so that they don't ending interfering with the music of other groups. Also, hosting houses only have one concert, giving guests the opportunity to roam the neighbors and see more of the architecture and landscaping. Performances last 45 minutes. Porch hosts will have maps to distribute to guests. While the event is free, musicians appreciate tips in their tip jar. There is a lot of expense that comes with performing.

This photo was from last year, on Cypress Street just as a performance had finished, we seem to recall. Hope to see you there!

Happy Saturday!

The Parisian Promenade

Yesterday, Greensboro Beautiful presented the Parisian Promenade in the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden on Hobbs Road. What a fabulous opportunity for families and friends to gather and stroll along the park seeing and being seen. The above scene is so Parisian, a street cart with buckets of flowers and a striped awning. The flower truck business is known as The Myrtle Cottage. The truck was located up by the Poodle Promenade Ring and flower sales were brisk. Prices were reasonable and people seemed to really enjoy buying flowers for themselves and their loved ones. The idea of being able to purchase flowers in a park or on a street corner is so quintessentially French. It is nice to see it in Greensboro and maybe  The Myrtle Cottage will make the opportunity more commonplace in Greensboro.

The weather yesterday was overcast, but it never did rain; making it perfect for the Parisian Promenade. The event is a project of the Greensboro Parks and Recreation and Greensboro Beautiful. Greensboro Beautiful is a 501 (c) 3 volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the beauty and ecology of Greensboro. The Parisian Promenade in the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is a beautiful example of Greensboro at its best. The venue is beautiful, the vendors and activities were delightful for people of all ages. Ecology deals with the relations of organisms to one another. Seeing people out enjoying the flora of Greensboro was such a great way to kick off June. Summer will be here before you know it. Next year will be here before you know it. Mark your calendar for the first Sunday in June for the next Parisian Promenade.

Greensboro Bound Literary Festival

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

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

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

Shalom! Jewish Festival at Temple Emanuel- Today

The above photo was taken at Temple Emanuel during Friday evening services. Temple Emanuel is a Reform Jewish Temple, located at 1129 Jefferson Road. Today, from 11:00am-5:00 pm, they will hold their annual Jewish Festival, now in the spring, instead of the fall. This community-wide event, celebrating Jewish life and culture, will be held rain or shine. There will be Jewish and Israeli food, temple tours, exhibits, music, dance, arts and crafts and more. There will be a kids zone as well as characters from Tanakh (what Christians refer to as the Old Testament). So, if you attend the festival, don't be surprised if you see Moses, Abraham, Rachel, and Noah walking around.  It is a good chance for the community to learn about Judaism and to celebrate a community that has done so much for Greensboro. 

Word has it that one of our favorite jewelry artists, Anette, will be there with jewelry  inspired by the people and symbols in Judaism. We are also looking forward to the Rabbi telling us about the symbolism in the 12 stained glass windows, as well as the meaning of the gold letters at the top of the sanctuary. The tents are in place, the food is ready, and Moses will be there to tell you just how he felt when God delivered the 10 commandments to him.

Happy Sunday!

The Day the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile Came to Greensboro

The Oscar Mayer Weinermobile was first launched in 1936. We don't know how many times it has been to Greensboro, but it was here during the Festival of Lights on Friday, December 2nd. In 1988, a fleet of 6 began making their way across the United States. They are 23-feet of advertisement and fun. People love getting their photo taken with them. If you want to know when it will be back in Greensboro, you can track it HERE. Greensboro isn't currently up on the map; however, you can even invite them to an event. We're guessing someone involved in organizing the Festival of Lights invited them.

In the above photo, this giant, plastic, bundle of joy was parked in the 500 block of South Elm Street, right across from the Community Theatre of Greensboro. They are often looking for enthusiastic people with great driving records to join the driving team. It would be so fun to have someone from Greensboro driving the Weinermobile! 

Happy Wednesday! After today, there are three more days until we close out 2022. Looking forward to seeing what the new year will bring our way. It is time to sit down and prepare a "Best of 2022" post for you. Also, we need to plan out a month-by-month activity spreadsheet to try to find 365 people, places, and events to share on Greensboro Daily Photo. Year 14 is going to be a good one!

Beth Sheffield and Local Author Event

Today, the Central Library is hosting a local author fair and two workshops for authors and aspiring authors. Beth Sheffield will present a workshop on "Selling your Book in Three Minutes or Less." Beth will share some clear examples of how to prepare and rehearse your "elevator speech" in case you get a chance to pitch your book to someone- planned or unplanned. Sometimes, when least expected, there is an opportunity to tell someone about your book; you've got to be ready. In the above photo, Beth is showing a couple of her go-to books for aspiring authors. You may recognize Beth, as she works in the Greensboro Central Library with major programming and book clubs. It is easy to remember someone with a smile that heartfelt.

There will also be an opportunity to meet sixteen local authors, purchase their books, and get books autographed. Two books that are getting a lot of press lately, are Diya Abdo's book, "American Refugee: True Stories of the American Refugee Experience" and Virginia Summer's book, "Redefining Activism: Judge Elreta Alexander-Ralston." Both authors will be in attendance today. The library has several fabulous events scheduled for 2023. To keep up with their offerings, follow the GSO Library on Facebook, or check gsolibrary.org for updates. In the meantime, hope to see you at the Central Library between 1-4pm today. Other than the workshops, the rest of the event is drop-in-anytime to meet these local authors. See yesterday's GDP post HERE for more details. There are other events going on downtown today. If the parking deck attendant knows you are going to the event at the public library, you should be able to park for free. 

Writers' Event at the Central Library, Tomorrow

Greensboro's City Library system is an invaluable community resource. Truly, it is one of the few places open to everyone; with computers, books, clean restrooms, meeting rooms, and special events. Tomorrow (Saturday, Dec. 10th), they are hosting the "Local Author Celebration Festival."  The event will be held from 1-4 pm at the Central Library at 219 N. Church Street. From 1:30- 2:30, local writer Quinn Dalton will hold a workshop for writers at all stages of their careers, "Jumpstart Your Writing Practice with Quinn Dalton." From 3:00- 3:45 pm, Beth Sheffield  will lead a workshop, "Selling Your Book in three Minutes or Less." Registration is required for the workshops. You can register with Ronald Headen at 336-412-6199 or [email protected]. 

The following local authors will be available for a meet and greet: Angela Parks, Anette Pearson, Diya Abdo, Edward Di Gangi, Haven Turner, Jennifer Orth Veillon, Joe Madera, Lakisha Tucker, Lee Zacharias, Matthew Armstrong, Michael Gaspeny, Quinn Dalton, Samuel Harrison, Sandra Bartell, Victoria Sparks, and Virginia Summer. Their books will be available for purchase and you will have an opportunity to get books signed. With this great group, there is a genre for everyone. We know this is a busy time of year, but the local author celebration will be so much fun. Also, it will help you start a reading list for 2023. If you are in a bookclub, you will get great ideas for books to read, and, who knows, you just might be able to arrange for a local author to visit your bookclub. We got Mary Flynn to speak at ours, before she moved to Wilmington.

Happy Friday!

Morgan Radford: Welcome Home!

Morgan Radford (in the red coat) and her family were in Greensboro last weekend for the Festival of Lights. Morgan gave a very inspiring speech on the stage near Center City Park, encouraging young people to believe in themselves. She also shared that Greensboro is  a great community and place to grow up. During her visit, Morgan received a key to the city from Mayor Nancy Vaughn. She also served as Grand Marshall of the holiday parade the next day. 

Morgan, who graduated at the top of her class at Grimsley High School in 2005, went on to earn an undergraduate degree from Harvard University in Massachusetts and a master's degree from Columbia University in New York.  She is now an American television news reporter and anchor. She works at NBC News and is based in New York. Morgan has always had a great work ethic and is driven to be the best she can be. Also, even since her days at Grimsley, and probably before, Morgan has been committed to serving community and helping others. She and her husband are expecting their first child. Let's hope her career continues to blossom, her delivery goes well, and that she comes back to visit Greensboro often. If we know she is coming, we'll leave the lights on; she has a key! Just look at that lovely, heartfelt smile.

Happy Thursday!

Christmas Time in the City

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Downton Greensboro. Last night was the Festival of Lights and there were activities from LeBauer Park to Gate City Boulevard. The above photo was the artificial snow being generated at Hamburger Square. Some children were experiencing "snow" for the first time. This year, a laser light show was added just southeast of the railroad tracks at Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. The Festival of Lights is a special event for Greensboro, because it appeals to people of all ages, perfect for families. 

As we were walking from Spring Street where we parked- quite a long way from Elm, a young girl and her mom asked us for directions. Next thing you know, as we were crossing the street, the girl, about in first grade with a "be kind" backpack, asked if she and her mom could walk with us. Her mom was on the phone trying to figure out where her other relatives were. The girl, Nia, explained that they were trying to find the Disney princesses. She looked up and said, "Elsa's going to be there, but I'm not sure if her sister will be there or not." At that very moment, we were reminded of those magical years of childhood, where children still believe; in humanity, the kindness of strangers, and that  princess are real. That interaction with Nia may just go down as one of our great memories of the 2022 Christmas season. 

Today, St. Andrews Church (2501 W. Market Street)  is holding their Deck the Halls Market from 10am- 3pm. The Holiday Parade downtown starts at noon. The fiberglass at Santa is waving 24/7 now. The nativity scene is back on the lawn of Greensboro College. Tomorrow, the Greensboro Curb Market will have another Made 4 the Holidays craft show. Literally, you could do something seasonal  every hour of the day between now and Christmas.

Happy Saturday!

Festival of Lights

Tonight is the night for the Festival of Lights in downtown Greensboro, from LeBauer and Center City Parks, along Elm Street, all the way to Gate City Boulevard. There will be something for everybody. From 5:30- 9:30, there will be non-stop fun. The tree lighting in Center City Park will happen precisely at 6:56 pm. Here is a full lineup. Piedmont Winterfest is also downtown at LeBauer Park. If you like to ice skate, Winterfest is a great option. There are even strolling entertainers and a laser. light show. The above photo shows the marshmallow roasting at Hamburger Square downtown. This event has been extremely popular since its inception.

Of course as a grand finale to the Festival of Lights would be to drive through Sunset Hills, where they have their own "Festival of Lights"! Our on your nicest red and green outfit and head downtown. Happy Friday!

Downtown at Holliday Circle

This Friday is  First Friday and the Festival of Lights. Are you ready? Downtown is ready for us. The above photo is the General Nathanael Greene Statue at Holliday Circle- 405 South Greene Street. General Greene was a major general of the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War and the person for whom Greensboro is named. The 22' tall bronze statue is on an 10' granite base.  Greensboro artist James Barnhill is the sculptor. It was dedicated on March 28, 2008. It was placed there as part of the Greensboro Bicentennial in that same year. *  Sculptor James Barnhill's work is featured prominently throughout Greensboro. He is a retired faculty member at NCA&T State University.  The round-about, Holliday Circle, is named for Keith A. Holliday who served our mayor from 1999 to 2007. So, this circle holds so much history for our city.

The photo was taken from the west, looking east, towards Hamburger Square. This historic area will be busy this Friday. Here is a list of holiday happenings in Downtown Greensboro. You won't want to miss these events. During COVID,  Downtown Greensboro (#DGSO) a local non-profit did a fabulous job of finding things to engage the community. Some of these events- like Tinsel Town- remain. Friday is on target to be beautiful weather. It is only Tuesday and we can hardly wait!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

View from Hamburger Square

This is the view of West McGee Street from the middle of Hamburger Square- the intersection of McGee with South Elm Street. Just Be Gifts  is to the left, Little Brother Brewing to the right, and Natty Greene's Restaurant just behind us. At the Festival of Lights on Friday, December 2nd, there will be standing-room-only in this square. In the background, center of the photo, you can see Nathanael Greene statue- local artist Jim Barnhill was commissioned to sculpt it. To the right in the background is the newly opened Hampton Inn. We're betting it will sell out for the Festival of Lights/First Friday. Look at how convenient it is to downtown! Although the scene looks empty and gray in today's post, it will be crowded and full of color when everyone is downtown on December 2nd. 

If you have a teen learning to drive, McGee is a good place to practice. As you can see, the lanes are clearly marked, AND, if you look at the diamond-shaped, yellow warning sign on the right, there is a round about. Round-abouts are becoming more popular in Greensboro. It is a good idea to practice navigating them- with or without a novice driver!

Happy Tuesday! A big thank you Katja Brown who alerted us to the fact that today's post hadn't published!

Leanne Pizio's Keep It Local Art Show

Tomorrow is the "Keep It Local"  Art Show hosted by Leanne Pizio whose sgraffito pottery is featured above. These vessels have been collected over the years and we can't wait to see what new spin she will put on her vessels. She will feature 20+ local artists and vendors at the show on her Oak Ridge property, located at 2409 Oak Ridge Road. Stop by anytime between 10am- 4pm. The raindate will be on Sunday. Leanne, a UNC Chapel Hill grad originally from Burlington, has been living in Greensboro for a few decades now with her husband Will and a menagerie of well loved pets.

Other artists at the Saturday show will have jewelry, hand-stitched dolls, painting, hand dyed clothing in fall, jewel tones, and more. This year, there will be a "Friends Helping Friends" booth where sales will help and artist whose husband has had several health issues this past year. When you "Keep It Local" every dollar goes to help artists in the community and it doesn't get any better than that. Leanne has always been one to help build and support community. In case you recognize some of the names, Micron Cat, Ginger Waynick, Kim Mentee, Bali Miru, Steph N Joe Parascandola, Michelle Jarrett @Funky by Nature, and Joey Wall are a few of the artists who will be there.

Happy Birthday/Founders Day UNCG

Yesterday was the Founders Day celebration at The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). October 5th was the first day of classes on the campus, 130 years ago in 1892. The event, held on the 6th this year, also honored the school's founders and early leaders, especially Charles Duncan McIver, the first President. Free t-shirts were distributed that said, McIver & Jackson & Sullivan & Gilliam- all four, memorable leaders. President Charles Duncan McIver was born in 1860 and only 45 years old when he died in 1906 at the age of 45. It is hard to believe that this crusader for women's education accomplished so much in his 45 short years. Walter Clinton Jackson was Head of the History Department, served as Dean and Vice President in the first past of the 20th century. Patricia Sullivan served as Chancellor from 1995- 1995- 2008. Finally, Franklin D. Gilliam is Chancellor now.

During Founders Day, the weather was glorious and students were having a ball playing cornhole, taking 360º photos, eating free kettle corn, playing frisbee, and eating free cake. The lines moved quickly and students really seemed to be enjoying themselves. Above is a photo of one of the cakes and, to be sure, there were many. When we left at 3:00, they had not yet run out of cake. Happy Birthday,

UNCG. Fall break is the first two days of next week and, likely, a lot of students will head out early today to enjoy a few days off, before returning and gearing up for the second half of the semester. 

Greensboro Pride Festival 2022

Yesterday afternoon, Greensboro was brimming with pride. The streets felt like Times Square on New Year's Eve. People of all ages and from all walks of life came downtown to show their pride on Elm Street from Washington Street to Gate City Boulevard. You know you are in Greensboro because you can barely see the Lincoln Financial Group building peeking out between the trees. On the left, is the "Free Mom Hugs" booth. It was a busy booth, and when the moms gave a hug, they held on tight for a sustained, heartfelt ten-second hug. While the festival was yesterday, the Greensboro Pride community has been hosting events all week. The festival is organized and hosted by Alternative Resources of the Triad; an organization in its 16th year of supporting the LBGTQ+ community. The celebration started last Sunday with a (sold out) Drag Brunch. See other events below*

Yesterday's event had so many community resources available ranging from merchandise purchasing to to resource centers to healthcare resources. Several churches with congregations that welcome the LBGTQ+ community were on hand. There was even a booth hosted by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Policies have changed a lot over the last decade and resources have grown. The Pride Festival is an opportunity to learn more about resources in the Piedmont area and beyond. Above is just one view of the diversity of the Greensboro Community. The weather was lovely and, while there was no rain, rainbows were everywhere.

The next festival will not happen until mid-September 2023; however, you can bet there are ongoing events in the area all throughout the year.

Happy Monday!

*Here is the list of events. While they are over, it gives you an idea of the organizations in the community supporting the LBGTQ+ community.

West Market Street UMC

Please allow us to post one more photo of the North Carolina Folk Festival from last weekend. The above photo features the West Market Street UMC, located at the corner of West Market Street and John Wesley Way. This church is over 175 years old and has about 2,000 members. When many congregants of various church are opting for suburban mega-sites, West Market Street is holding steady as a dynamic, well-attended church downtown. The Old Courthouse Stage is placed in front of the church and the Lawn Stage is just down the street. We're wondering if the church has considered doing something like a Sunday sing on the stage outside their front door. They do sell parking spaces for the day at the festival, as a fundraiser. However, it seems like they would be ripe to be involved in other ways. The building is just so beautiful and the congregation is so inviting. Maybe we'll try to attend next year during the festival. It looks so beautiful at night. This would be a perfect opportunity to turn on some of the lights to let those stained glass windows glow with all of their glory. 

If you are interested in West Market UMC, HERE is a link to their website. They offer something for everybody from young to old and for those who like traditional services to those who like something more contemporary. Have a great Sunday and please stop back by tomorrow... and every day!

Rainy Days

The above photo was taken downtown on Saturday around 2pm as the NC Folk Festival was gearing up for the day. While the rain was a bit convenient, most of the venues were covered, making it possible to enjoy good music without getting too wet. Also, a light rain can really add mood to the music. It can also make it hard to keep the instruments in tune. The above photo features people walking along the part of the festival where the vendors were set up. The bright colors of the pedestrians with umbrellas really contrasts with the grayness of the sky and the buildings.  We love the fact that the street sign anchors the photo on the 100 block of South Elm Street, as does the sign on the building to the right. Something about the mood evokes one of the paintings you might see in one of the street stalls in Paris. Currently, there is no rain in the forecast for the next week or more. Let's hope this last round was enough to keep our end of summer gardens watered.

If you subscribe to Greensboro Daily Photo through email. We apologize that your service has been interrupted. Mr. GDP spent most of the day yesterday addressing the problem and finding a subscription service we're hoping we can depend on. As he explains, we are a mom and pop organization with limited tech skills. A lot has changed since we started this daily photo site 13 years ago. Here's to happy readers. May this virtual endeavor continue to bring you joy. Happy Thursday!

Great Folk Enjoying Great Music at the NC Folk Festival

Carol Thompson (right) loves Old-Time music. She has been featured in the News & Record at least twice for her flat-foot dancing at the North Carolina Folk Festival. Carol not only dances, she also calls square dances and probably contra dances, too. Her energy and footwork on her portable, wooden dance board are impressive. She preps the board with a little corn meal to create just the right balance between glide and traction. On Saturday, Carol was dancing to the Zinc Kings and the young person on the left, a fiddler from Charleston, SC, came up to dance, but didn't have a board. Without missing a beat, Carol turned her board from portrait to landscape orientation, and the two danced away. The North Carolina Folk Festival is like that: Two complete strangers, united by music and dance, arm in arm, smiling and dancing. 

Other people eventually joined them and Carol even gave an impromptu dance lesson to a child- perhaps about ten years old- explaining that the movements are akin to skipping. He worked at the steps, left with a smile on his face, and then returned to thank Carol. Dancing, music, fellowship, and smiles are the hallmark of a great festival. Thank you to everyone involved in the North Carolina Folk Festival 2022, including Lynn Donovan who was checking her photos before stepping back into action , capturing more photos of a very great day. Not even rain dampened the attendees' spirits!

NC Folk Festival 2022: Greensboro Proud

Greensboro can be so proud of the job we are doing hosting the 2022 NC Folk Festival. And, it is so wonderful that we get to host the event. Last night, as the sun set and the full-to-the-eye moon rose over the City Stage tent at the festival, Greensboro came alive. By 9:00 pm, when Sam Bush came on stage, City Stage was standing room only. People congregated to hear this American mandolinist play his instrument at breakneck speed, without missing a beat. Even if progressive bluegrass music isn't your genre, the energy of the Sam Bush Band would have captivated you. To the right of the stage, the ASL professionals signing the concert brought the event alive for the deaf and hard of hearing. How was it possible for them to be so accurate with their interpreting?! Surrounded by good music, food trucks, the merchandise tent, the bar tent, and port-a-potties galore, the festival-going crowd had all of their needs met. That was just one of FIVE places you could go to hear great music. Today and tonight at the festival will be equally engaging. And, even if it is raining, there are plenty of places at the stages to listen under the comfort of a tent. 

You may remember in April, we featured Lynn Witherspoon. She is working operations behind the scene to make sure that the festival is running smoothly; and it is. We have been so impressed with the footprint of the festival this year. Getting from one venue to the next is very manageable and the.food trucks and craft vendors are conveniently located all along the way. And there is such variety in the food trucks. Well worth the wait in line. The Jamaican-jerk salmon was getting rave reviews. We're not sure how many people are attending the festival from out of town and out of state. But, we're hoping the NC Folk Festival is here to stay in Greensboro and we can all do our share to promote it, attend it, and to help those around us have a good time. We have seen so many old friends and made some new ones. For the rest of today and tomorrow, great memories are only a ride-to-town away!

Happy Saturday!

 

Songs of Hope & Justice

Last night, from 8:00- 11:00 pm was the pre-festival concert for the North Carolina Folk Festival. Songs of Hope and Justice was presented in the Van Dyke Performance Space at 200 Davie Street in the Cultural Arts Center. The venue was just right big enough to feel like a good gathering, yet small enough to feel intimate. This concert has been performed since 2015, the first year of folk festival, back when it was the National Folk Festival. A special thank you goes out to Laurelyn Dossett for hosting the event. The concert was such a nice blend of performers, genres, and, songs with the unifying theme that they focused on themes of freedom and social justice. It was a special treat to hear Alice Gerrard (right, in red)  perform again at the festival. Her career spans about seven decades. We hadn't heard fiddler Faye Petree play before, so that was a real treat. 

If you get a chance, sit down and plan out your weekend at the North Carolina Folk Festival. It will be well worth your while. HERE is the schedule.

Folk Festival 2022

The North Carolina State Folk Festival is upon us. How wonderful that Greensboro has earned the honor of having the festival here. Let's all head downtown and support these musicians. So many different genres of music and ethnicities of people will be represented. There is something for everybody. Tonight is the 7th annual pre-festival concert,  Songs of Hope and Justice, in the Van Dyke Performances Space at 200 North Davie Street. HERE is a link to learn more about the concert and to purchase tickets. You can also access the festival lineup, performance schedule, and festival map from that same link.

Much consideration has gone into ensure the pedestrian footprint is safe and walkable. The northernmost street is Bellemeade, extending south to Market and Washington Streets. Church and Eugene Streets are the east/west boundaries. You might want to bring a water bottle and a lightweight folding chair. The North Carolina makers marketplace will be at the crossroads of Elm Street and Friendly Avenue. The above photo was taken last year at the Old Courthouse Stage on Market Street and it will be in about the same position this year.

We sure hope to see you downtown. Donate and make purchases if you are able. And remember, clapping and other signs of appreciation bring performers and volunteers so much joy. 

Happy Thursday! Happy weekend of music!

 

Dr. Kieth Wright Cello Scholarship

As the Eastern Music Festival (EMF) is coming to a close this week, you have only a few more opportunities to hear wonderful classical music by EMF students who have spent the summer honing their performance skills. This year, there are about 250 students from 41 US states and nine countries.*  EMF has been special to us in Greensboro since its origin 61 years ago. It is a chance to showcase our city to all of the participants from elsewhere.

The above photo features Dr. Judie Davie Wright and John Keane. John is the 2022 recipient of the Dr. Kieth Wright Cello Scholarship. John studies at Shenandoah University with Julian Schwartz. Dr. Davie Wright arranged the scholarship in her husband's honor shortly after his death. Dr. Wright retired from UNCG and Dr. Davie Wright from Guilford County Schools. After books, libraries, storytelling, and preparing people for a library science career, the EMF was one of their favorite activities; they were season ticket holders. Dr. Wright was especially fond of cello music. At the time the decision was being made to underwrite a scholarship, there wasn't an EMF cello scholarship, so the choice was an easy one. To date, there have been seven recipients of the Dr. Kieth Wright Cello Scholarship. 

On the evening we attended EMF with Dr. Davie Wright (July 15), John was performing in the student orchestra, and he stopped by for a quick visit with us during intermission. Additionally, after the July 22nd student concert, John performed a brief concert for his parents, who hail from Richmond, VA, his girlfriend, and for Dr. Davie Wright. What a nice gesture and a great example of how sometimes when we give, we receive even more in return.  Let's hope all EMF participants all have a chance to make some local, Greensboro, connections.

*Jennifer Fernandez, News & Record, p. A2 July 24, 2022.

Chess in Center City Park

This is one of our favorite photos from Fun Fourth. These two guys were playing chess on the Elm Street side of Center City Park. There were festivities going on all around them, but their concentration was on their chess fame. If you are looking for a place to play chess, Greensboro Chess Club meets every Wednesday from 6:30-9:00 pm at the Lewis Recreation Club at 3110 Forest Lawn Drive (near the intersection of Battleground Avenue and Pisgah Church Road). Instructors and resources are available. The club is open to all enthusiasts. However, nothing beats playing outdoors on a warm summer day, surrounded by people enjoying the day. They say chess is a metaphor for life. There are endless opportunities; we need to anticipate others' moves; losing isn't always failing and challenges can trigger growth. But, on a sunny day, with a friend, it can just be a way to learn a little and enjoy spending time together. 

Have a great Thursday.