Greensboro Daily Photo

The Day the Cheerwine Van Came to Town

Cheerwine was created in Salisbury, NC, in nearby Rowan County, in 1917. Cheerwine set up at the 2021 North Carolina Folk Festival, offering free samples of regular and sugar-free Cheerwine. Their booth wasn't swamped, but people consistently wandered by for a sample. They were also selling cans of the unique cherry flavored beverage. It is always fun during special events when there are give-aways. Cheerwine has been very innovative with product development and marketing in the 2000s. There is Cheerwine ice cream, Cheerwine punch, and Cheerwine Krispy Kreme doughnuts. 

While Greensboro can't claim Cheerwine, just a few miles from this booth, we have our own flavor company. Mother Murphy is a food flavoring business that was established in in1946. For 75 years, those scents from very secret recipes have been wafting through Greensboro. Mother Murphy boasts a flavor library of of more than 60,000 flavors. Their motto is "If you can imagine it, we can create it."  Salisbury has Cheerwine and New Bern has Pepsi; we challenge you to order some special flavor from Mother Murphy and create the next soda sensation. Then, you can set up at an upcoming festival and we can snap a photo and boast that your soft drink was created right here in Greensboro, North Carolina! 

For those who were around in the Boar & Castle Days, you may remember the Green Drink. Hmmmm......

Happy Wednesday; happy innovating!

Burbon Bowl Fun

The Burbon Bown opened earlier this summer and it has so much character. The above photo features the 6-lane bowling alley in the back of the building. The outdoor seating covers a city lot! There is an extensive bar and also seating for meals. It is possible to order snacks in the bowling area and there are comfortable couches to sit on while waiting for others to take their turn. This venue fits with the changing profile of the South 500 and 600 block of Elm Street. There is a game arcade, several new restaurants, and lots of retail space for rent at 616 South Elm Street. 

One of the goals for the property that now houses the Burbon Bowl at 531 South Elm Street was to find a business that would attract college students to downtown. Bowling might be just the trick! The crowd last night was older than college, but then college students are just getting back to town and seem so excited to actually be back on campus that they are probably content to hang around the dorm and student union. Not to fear, they'll soon venture out to South Elm. Look at how cute those bowling balls are. They look like pool balls. Another cute feature, the bathroom doors look like office doors taken from an old high school. You have two options "Mr. Mill's class Room 34, or Mrs. Bell's class Room 22!

The Well Rooted Farm

Today, we're sharing another photo of Saturday's Corner Market. It is an important community resource, worth sharing a second day. As mentioned yesterday, the market has moved from the corner of Elam and Market to West Market Street. The new location, in the parking lot of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, appears to be a great change. The Well Rooted Farm is located in Madison, NC, faithfully set sup at the Corner Market.  They regularly posts on their Facebook page and they have been advertising the new location.

As you can see from the above photo, The Well Rooted Farm has lovely bouquets of flowers and lots of yummy, fresh vegetables. They are especially known for their bouquets. Just look how lovely those flowers are.  The farmers at Well Rooted are members of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, a key floriculture organization. Saturday, Well Rooted had a corner space and it was one of the first seen when entering from Kensington Road. 

We hope your week is off to a great start. This is the first week of August. First Friday is this week and the Corner Market will be back on Saturday, both opportunities to have fun outdoors!

St. Andrew's Episcopal Church Now Hosting the Corner Market

The Saturday morning Corner Market had long outgrown its location at Walker and Elam. Yesterday, was the inaugural day in its new location, the parking lot of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church at 2105 West Market Street.  Hopefully, this relocation will be a good one not only for the market, but also for St. Andrew's. Perhaps they will be able to find tie-in events and maybe even gain more members who learn about it through the market. The aisles at the market are spacious and the parking lot even accommodates off-street parking. Also, market breakdown at the Elam/Walker location was hurried as Sticks and Stones needed their parking lot back in time to open. For being the first week on Market Street,  it was very well attended.  The aisles are wide and there is room for growth. There is also room for lines if people need to cue up for bread or produce. If they need a new name since they are no longer on "the corner", we suggest "Market on Market".

Yesterday was the farmers market, today it is church. Again, the parking lot will be full, only today with cars of congregants. St. Andrew's began in 1893 with three women founding an ecumenical Sunday school. Over the last 128 years, the church  has grown and relocated several times. They have a very informative history online (see here). If you are looking for a caring, accepting, liberal Christian church, St. Andrew's would be a great choice. Just look at how lovely and visible the church is from the parking lot. If you think the building is lovely, you should meet the members. Happy Sunday!

Augustino Gusto: European Artisan Bakery

Augustino Gusto Bakery is located at 2805 New Garden Road East, right behind the BP Station Perhaps because they are only open two days a week (Wed. and Sat.), but they are extremely busy when open. The above photo shows the line at 11:00 am on Saturday. And by 11:00 am, they had sold out of almond croissant, kalamata olive bread, sauerkraut rolls, and more. On Saturday, we arrived at 9:05 not realizing that they didn't open until 9:30. There was already a couple waiting in line and, as we were leaving to run some errands, they told us not to get back too late as things sell out quickly. 

Something we noticed while waiting in line is how people talked to each other. Perhaps it is a southern trait, but people were talking as if they were old friends. The man in front of us built custom homes, used to live in Hilton Head, and has traveled extensively. The woman in front of him used to live in Savannah. So, this line was filled with people from all walks of life, but they had one thing in common. They tried this bakery and became loyal customers. While it may look like a house on the outside, on the inside, the sights and smells are exactly those of a European bakery. Saturday, they added a ricotta pie, so there is always something new and interesting to try.

Happy Monday, start planning ahead to visit Augustino Gusto Bakery on Wednesday to support a local business and to have some authentic European pastries. Two. More. Days.

The Fabulous Tomato Greeter at the Greensboro Farmers Market

Saturday is fresh produce day whether you are at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville Street, at the market on Sandy Ridge, or at all the farms and produce stands in between. The produce is glorious right now. The above photo is of a very articulate young woman who is a senior at Guilford College. She volunteers at the farmers market just to give back to the community. Unfortunately, we didn't get her name. Next time we see her, we will ask. She was handing out flyers of upcoming events, and encouraging people to head over to get a BLT sandwich.

Today is a good day to head out for produce. Rain is not predicted until 4:00 pm, and, if it comes, it shouldn't last long. If you like sports, the 2021 Masters Short Course National Championships are still going on at the Greensboro Aquatic Center. If you go watch, the pool is so nice, you will feel like you are at the Olympics. Whatever you decide to do, have a great day!

The Gary Maverick Band

Have you had a chance to see any live music this summer? Whether the answer is yes or no, you should consider heading over to Mac's Speed Shop tonight for a bite to eat and some fabulous entertainment by The Gary Maverick Band. If you like good, upbeat rock and roll music, you will enjoy this local group. The above photo was taken when they played at Oden Brewing last Saturday night. Saturday night was a rainy evening in Greensboro, but no rain is scheduled for today. They will be there from 7:00- 10:00 p.m. Usually, they play multiple sets with Daniel Sheffield drumming part of the time and Artimus Pyle drumming the other. Both are outstanding percussionists! Good singing, good music, and great lighting!

 

BLT Day at Greensboro Farmers Curb Market!

Today is BLT Sandwich Day at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville Street, across from War Memorial Stadium. The above vegetable photo was taken about a month ago. By now, there should be plenty of ripe tomatoes, whether you get them on the BLT, or to take home with you, or BOTH!! They usually start preparing sandwiches at about 8:30 a.m. and you know they will sell quickly. Usually, they are set up outside and there is live music at the Lawn Lindsay Street- the side of the curb market.

Even if you don't like BLTs, the market is a great place to go to get some type of fresh produce and to interact with a great group of people. Also, it is always nice to support local vendors. The BLT makers should be there preparing sandwiches until 11:00 a.m.; however, it could be cut short depending on the size of the crown. Happy Saturday! May you find something glorious to to in Greensboro.

Beef Burger... Ralph Havis RIP

On Tuesday, we went to photograph what was left of Beef-Burger and experienced great nostalgia for the boiled burgers and a business that had been on West Gate City Boulevard for decades- since back when it was Lee Street. It seems like the iconic black and white checkered floors and the yellow seats had been the same forever. As you can see in the photo, the OPEN sign is no longer in the window. The mechanical car and the vending machines remain- as if time is standing still. We learned that yesterday, owner Ralph Havis, the heart and soul of Beef-Burger, has died. There were rumors of his declining health in May when the business closed. Sometimes, when an owner passes, there simply isn't anyone who is willing or  able to pour as much of their life into a business as the main proprietor. 

Ralph must have had a sense of humor, as he addressed business concerns with signage and remained open, in spite of some of the challenges of running a restaurant in a part of town where there were so many needy and suffering customers. The signs said, "If you are drunk, eat somewhere else" and "no bumming..." Also in the window are signs that say "Thank you, Greensboro!" and "Beef Burger is CLOSED PERMANENTLY. Ralph appreciates all the thoughts and prayers from customers and friends. We humbly thank you all for years of service." For those who ate here, the yellow, turquoise, and red facade, and the yellow, black, and white interior just wouldn't be the same without Ralph. Today's photo- with the interior and the reflection of the new UNCG building across the street, and the sky- speaks to the passing of time and the transitions that ensure.

Goodbye, Ralph and thank YOU for your service to Greensboro.

Happy "Fourth" On the Fifth

Happy July 5th. Well, the July 4th weekend is behind us, but according to the holiday schedule for the City of Greensboro, today is the day the Independence Day holiday is officially celebrated. So, it will be a Monday that feels like an extended Sunday.  We hope you had some time this weekend to spend with family and friends and to celebrate America's independence from England.

Today, we're showing a photo of the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market from a couple of weeks ago when it was blueberry pancake day. The pancakes were prepared by Cheesecakes by Alex and they were a hit. They sold out quickly. In the above photo, Alex' son Timmothy is flipping the pancakes. You can see their van in the background. To the left, you see people enjoying the pancakes as well as music by the band that was playing that day. If you like special events, mark your calendar for Saturday, July 17th (in two weeks) when it will be the annual Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato Sandwich Day. If the pancakes are any indication, arrive early. Those events at the farmers market where you sit out on the lawn and enjoy the community are a little like the Fourth of July, right down to the yummy summer produce. Happy Monday!

Seasonal Foods Like Watermelon Milkshakes!

Yesterday was opening day for watermelon milkshakes at Cook Out and according to servers, "That's all customers want!". We always try to get one on opening day, bring it to our flower garden, and enjoy it with a few slices of watermelon on the side- which is exactly what you see in the above photo. The watermelon slices are cold with a hint of ice crystals, perfect for cooling you off on a hot day like today. (We won't tell you how Mr. GDP described the weather today). Anyway, Cook Out is a local company started right here in  Greensboro in 1989. Over the last thirty-two years, Cook Out has expanded to over 100 cities and has stores in ten states; and they aren't done growing.

We are so accustomed to getting any food, anytime we want it. If something is out of season in the northern hemisphere, we ship it in from the southern. Or, in some cases, the produce is grown in a hothouse. It is refreshing to have foods and menu items that are seasonally available. Cook Out only sells watermelon shakes in July and August; so,  you only have sixty-two days to try one. Even if you don't crave watermelon milkshakes, perhaps you flock to the farmers markets for North Carolina peaches. Some varieties of peaches are already ripe and readily available. Are there any local or seasonal foods that you crave? Where do you get them in Greensboro? You will have plenty of options this weekend with the farmers markets. Also, there are Fourth of July activities in Greensboro this weekend. The Fourth of July Celebration Picnic is tomorrow from 11am-3pm at Keeley Park in McLeansville (July 3rd);  The Fun Fourth Festival on South Elm Street is also tomorrow (July 3) from 4-9 pm. Note that there are no vendors this year as Greensboro is easing back into public events, post-Covid. This will be even more reason to visit those farmers markets and find something seasonal to pack for a snack. In the meantime, we'll probably be heading for another watermelon milkshake... or two! Happy Second, Third, and Fourth of July! 

(that minute you look at your photograph and notice some of your landscaping rocks have been relocated, or might be missing)!!!!!

Summer Nights 2021!

Well, temperature wise, Greensboro has been in the high 70s, heading towards the 80 this weeks. With the summer solstice, it is now staying daylight longer and the people of Greensboro seem to be looking for opportunities to stay up and outside as long as possible. The above photo was taken at Sticks & Stones Restaurant at the corner of Walker and Elam. Last night, even after 8:00 p.m., it was still daylight and people were out enjoying pizza and conversation- about the time the lightning bugs were starting to glow. In addition to the great fellowship, the clay pizza oven at Sticks and Stones does not disappoint either.

In addition to enjoying the restaurant, Greensboro residents really appreciate the community Corner Market  held in this parking lot on the weekends. This location is right at the crossroads of Sunset Hills and Lindley Park and is a part of town loved by many. The above photo was taken at about 8:00 p.m. last night; it was still daylight, and people were lingering as long as possible. When you find just the right spot, summer nights can be magical. The corner of Walker and Elam is just that space. Happy Tuesday! Happy summer!

Aldi Opening on Battleground Avenue

Remember where Earthfare was located on Battleground Avenue? It was in the plaza near Pisgah Church Road, where there is a Starbucks and a U.S. post office. Well, now, an Aldi is going in the former Earthfare space. The first Aldi store was opened in 1913, during World War I,  in Essen, Germany by Anna Albrecht and Aldi stands for Albrecht Discount. Now, there are thousands of locations around the world, and over 1,600 in the United States alone. They are one of many grocery stores in Greensboro. In the United States, Aldi is third only to Walmart and Kroger. The above store is scheduled to open by this fall. There are already three Aldi's in the Greensboro area (New Garden Road, Randleman Road, and West Gate City Boulevard).  The New Garden Road store was the third to open (in 2013) and now, eight years later, the fourth is being added.

Even if you already have your "go to" place to shop for groceries, it is nice to see the above plaza gain and anchor store. This should put it at close to full capacity. The more options people have, the more likely they are to consider a destination.  Well, it is Monday, and if you had a large Fathers Day event, or a Summer Solstice event, chances are you will need to go to the grocery store somewhere. Where do you like to shop for groceries in Greensboro? Do you have a favorite? Happy Monday; you just may run in to us shopping for groceries!

Fishbones Restaurant

Fishbones is a modern bar and grill, located at 2119 Walker Avenue between Sunset Hills and Lindley Park. It was opened by Neil Reitzel in 2000 right beside the former location of the Blind Tiger. The Blind Tiger has long since moved to Spring Garden Street, but Fishbones is still going strong at the corner of Walker and Elam for over twenty years. Over the last two decades, this part of town has seen a lot of young families move into the neighborhood and Fishbones has the ambience of a restaurant and bar for locals.

Fishbones serves a wide variety of food with seafood being among the most popular dishes- especially the fish and chips. Since Fishbones has reopened from the pandemic, they have stayed busy. We arrived around 6:00 pm one evening last week, and by 7:00 pm, all of the seats were taken. They offer indoor and outdoor seating and take out. The above photo gives you a feel for the ambience. The tin roof and wooden floor are charming. The photo also gives you an idea of the seating; indoors, the chairs are tall, outside, they are not. Here is an article from the News & Record when they first opened. Happy Tuesday. Where is your "go to" place. Is it the same as it was pre-Pandemic? 

Chez Genèse at 616 South Elm Street

Today, we're sharing another photo of our downtown excursion on Memorial today. Today's photo is of Chez Genèse at 616 South Elm Street. Chez Genèse is a French cafe that employs people with intellectual and development disabilities. They serve breakfast and lunch. Here is the menu if you would like to see the options. It is hard to believe they've already been open three years. You may remember when Charlie and Ruth held their community dinners down here. While they've move on to Missouri, the current owners try to maintain that same feeling of being with community while you are eating here. The atmosphere is relaxed, but lively at the same time. There is some seating outside in front of the café.

Monday was pretty peaceful and, if you look closely, you can see people indoors as well as outside. The two sedans market out front really add to the scene. Let's hope the restaurant remains successful for a very long time! They do so much to help out the community. Happy Wednesday!

Lewis & Elm Restaurant

The above photo shows a table of guests at the restaurant at 600 South Elm Street, now called Lewis & Elm. This is evidence that things are opening back up again. Yesterday afternoon, downtown was pretty busy, and it was not even First Friday. Lewis & Elm is the new name of the restaurant in the location that was formerly Table 16. At the new restaurant, you must be 21 to attend. They offer an extensive wine list and a few dishes to pair with the wine. The menu includes items like conch, mussels, duck foie gras, salads, and cheese dishes. The 500 and 600 blocks of South Elm are quite vibrant now, as it the Lewis Street area. This area is also referred to as Southend. We have a feeling it is going to get more and more popular over the summer. 

Across the street, the Burbon Bown was set to open at the beginning of May. Word has it they are having getting fully staffed. If you know someone who is looking for a job, not is a good dime to interview. In the meantime, we will sit back and enjoy the beauty of the above photo. Seeing people out, enjoying themselves in downtown Greensboro, is nothing short of fantastic. Happy Saturday!

Tasting Room

The Tasting Room is located at the corner of Chapman and Spring Garden Streets.  It is a neighborhood wine bar and retail shop. The above photo was taken there last weekend. This afternoon in Fancy Friday! If you are over 21 and want to learn about wines, you can do so from 4:00- 10:00 pm. Last weekend, Ghassan's food truck was on site for one of the events.

901 South Chapman formerly housed a gift shop and at one time, it looks like it might have been a pancake house. Do you remember? Since the property is commercial, it is harder to trace the history. At any rate, it was nice to see this corner of town return to its vibrant self. Across the street from the Tasting Room, where Bianca's Italian Restaurant used to be, is a taco restaurant. Freeman's Grub and Pub is across the street (the brick building in the background on the left). They are a good food option. And, if you need a good cup of coffee, Spring Garden Bakery and Coffee House is located in the next block. So, as you can see, the streets are, once again, filling with people eager to socialize! Happy weekend!

Cheesecakes By Alex

Today's photo is the mural inside the new dining room at Cheesecakes by Alex at 315 South Elm Street. It was painted by the Greensboro-based artist, Jenna Rice (@JennaRiceArt). In the mural, Jenna painted Alex on the left with son Timmothy who is also in the business. Alex opened his business downtown since 2002. Over the nearly 20 years, the menu has expanded from a few cheesecake flavors to over two dozen. There are traditional flavors, like New York style to  seasonal flavors (blueberry, pumpkin), and unique flavors like butter pecan, and bananas foster. Indeed, there is a flavor for everybody. Additionally, there are other desserts like cupcakes, cookies, macaroons and macarons. 

Alex has had his bakery downtown early on in the revival of downtown Greensboro, opening it in the same year that the Green Bean Coffee Shop opened.  If you are downtown and want something sweet, step in and treat yourself to a slice of cheesecake and say hello to Alex, Timmothy, and the rest of the crew. Happy Thursday.

Events Slowly Resuming

Slowly and cautiously, events are resuming for the fully vaccinated. Last night, a few people from the Piedmont Old Time Society ventured out to play music at the Pig Pounder Brewery on Grecade Street. If all goes well, they will hold an open jam there on the first and third Thursday of the month. However, the group will not meet in Greensboro on the first Thursday in June, as so many musicians will be attending the Mt. Airy Fiddler's Convention.  Old-time music is acoustic and consists of fiddle, banjo, guitar, and bass. Occasionally, another instrument gets mixed in. The fiddle, however, is the lead instrument. Last night, there were several fiddlers and the music was great. 

Well, the weekend is upon us. May you have a great one. If you have a chance to go to Pig Pounder, and like to have interesting backdrops for photos, you will have found the perfect combination- especially at twilight. Marty Kotis' goal of having Midtown identified with murals has become a reality. The artwork looks even prettier when live music is being played. It is hard to believe that Pig Pounder has already been open seven years- since 2014!

Yum Yum Ice Cream on Spring Garden Street

Yum Yum has been a Greensboro tradition since 1906. While workers, ice-cream flavors, owners, and location have change over the last century, all of the goodness of Yum Yum has remained constant. The hand-scooped ice cream is fresh and tasty. After 100+ years, the Aydelette family has soul the business to the Lipp family and  the Lipps are making an effort to keep the ice cream shop the same. They do take credit cards now. That is a big different. Today would be a great day for an ice cream. Head on over, get some good ice cream, and make  some good memories. You can eat indoors, outside, or get your order to go!

People build so memories going to Yum Yum, especially when they are attending UNCG. One of the old, stand by flavors is Oreo cookie. Today sounds like it would be a perfect day for ice cream, at the corner of Stirling and Spring Garden Street. Happy Saturday!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Today is a day many Mexican Americans celebrate their Mexican heritage in the United States. It is not Mexican Independence Day, nor is is really celebrated outside of Puebla, Mexico, where the Mexican army won a battle over the French.

The above photo is a display of Mexican popsicles, known as paletas. These aren't your ordinary commercial popsicles. They are handmade, frozen treats with just about any flavor- especially fruit- imaginable. Chile mango, lime, and cherries and cream are a few examples. If you haven't yet, you owe it to yourself to try an authentic, Mexican paleta. Cinco de Mayo is the perfect day to do so.

One place in Greensboro to purchase paletas is at La Super Michoacana at 3821 West Gate City Boulevard (where this photo was taken). We don't know if Lucha Libre Ice Cream and Churros at 4925 West Market Street sells paletas, but they do sell Mexican ice cream desserts that are out of this world. Whatever you try, be adventurous. Mango Chile is just the right blend of tart, spicy, and sweet. So let Cinco de Mayo be a day you expand your flavor palate. Almost 8% of Greensboro's population is of Hispanic origin. While that encompass many different ethnicities, not just those found in Mexico, the Hispanic demographic accounts for almost 25% of Greensboro's population growth over the last decade.*  Take today to celebrate the many good things Mexicans and other Hispanics have brought to Greensboro - paletas being just one small example.

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

* reference HERE.

 

South End Brewing Company

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

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

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

Oden Brewing Company: The Façade

Yesterday's view on GDP was the back yard of Oden Brewing, the part behind the houses on the west side of the building. Today, we share the facade of Oden Brewing, located at 802 West Gate City Boulevard. If you are local, likely, you have noticed this this brick structure- vacant for years. The building has one of those fee- good stories of the younger generation preserving a little bit of the past. This story is even sweeter given the Oden family, brothers Bill and John, and their families, have resorted the building that once housed their great grandfather's bottling plant. According to their website, "William L. "Fate" Oden operated his soft drink bottling plant in the towering industrial building formerly known as Buffalo Rock Bottling Plant." 

At the height of the bottling of soft drinks, in the late 40s early 50s, there were ten bottling plants in Greensboro (read the 1998 News & Record article, here). It also appears that Buffalo Rock actually dates back to 1901 in Birmingham, Alabama, and that the above building would have been part of the network of Buffalo Rock bottlers and distributers. While plastic has long since beat out glass in the soft drink bottling industry, beer is still bottled in glass (or cans) and the Bill and John Oden family bottling beer in the very site that their great grandfather built a bottling business. Somehow, that story just seems for fitting in spring- the key season for rebirth and renewal.

Oden Brewing Company Where the Past Steps into the Future!

West Gate City Boulevard was hopping on Saturday night. Oden Brewing Company, located at 802 W. Gate City Boulevard, is part of the change happening to the Gate City Boulevard area.  The Oden building is a large garage-type brick structure used as a brewery (not photographed here).  Odom also owns the two houses photographed above and the property surrounding them. The houses date to the early 20th century and are being renovated to their original charm. Saturday  afternoon and into the evening, people gathered here to listen to good music, drink a few pints, and eat some really good BBQ out of the food truck on site. The surprising feature of the whole complex is the ample parking on this combined lot. Also, there are exit/entrances on Gate City Boulevard as well as onto Tate Street.

Most patrons on Saturday night spent their time on the porch or the picnic tables, stools, and chairs in the yard. Some elected to remain inside and the weather was warm enough to keep the doors open, bringing the outside in. It is really encouraging to see old buildings and houses get restored and repurposed, as opposed to tearing them down and building new. This trend will help Greensboro retain its old-world charm, keeping a foot in the past while also remaining relevant into the future! Here, you can be in public, just west of downtown, but have the feeling you are on a friend's farm out in rural North Carolina! Soon, we'll feature the Oden building soon and share its back story. Stay tuned!

Clutch Coffee Bar

Clutch Coffee Bar at 1405 Sunset Drive, at Lawndale, is the newest coffee house in town. It replaced a former Wells Fargo building, and service is drive-thru only- although outdoor seating is under consideration. The Greensboro location of Clutch opened on January 30th. There are already two locations in Mooresville and one in Winston Salem. The three founders, John, Darren, and Jake realized their entrepreneurial dream in 2018. The company is committed to customer, culture, and community and the motto is "Power up", a reference to their commitment to providing inspiration to customers and employees alike.

To that end, Drayton (photographed above) is proof that the company's positivity and inspiration is working. Drayton, has been a barista since age 16 and was working for a multi-national coffee chain before deciding to make the change and work for a smaller, more-local company. We met up in the parking lot yesterday and we were able to conduct a brief interview. Drayton is a student at UNCG and absolutely loves working at Clutch and speaks highly of the owners and management. If you work with people Drayton's age or younger you probably already know that "Clutch" means "perfect, exactly what is needed, awesome." Also, according to the Urban Dictionary, "clutch" is used when someone does something just when it is urgently needed. So, if you are in the Irving Park area and need a little caffeine, a lot of caffeine, or an all-natural, caffeine-free, no-sugar-added juice from the juice bar, Clutch is right there!

"Be the Light"

It was a fun challenge to find a photo for today. First, it is Day 2 of African American History month (we will have more, related photos).  Also, today  is Groundhog Day and as for capturing a photo of that groundhog in our Greensboro yard- not gonna happen. Besides, if he comes out and sees his shadow, we'll have six more weeks of winter. Finally, today is Candlemas, the 40th and final day of the Christmas season. Some churches will celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ/the Feast of the Purification of the Virgin Mary; celebrating families will light candles and have a big meal together. Today, we celebrate this many-faceted, conglomerate-of-holidays day with a quote from Chick-Fil-A Founder Truett Cathy. The above sign was seen at the Brassfield Chick-Fil-A, November 16th, 2020; it was hard to read, unless one was waiting in the drive-through line. And there were many...

"We live in a changing world but we need to be reminded that the important things have not changed and the important things will not change if we keep our priorities in proper order."  Truett Cathy (2020).  On this second day of February, may we find a way to "Be the light."

Boxcar Pizza at Boxcar Bar + Arcade

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

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

Free Food Pantry

Food insecurity is a big issue in Greensboro. There are, however, several organizations committed to helping people have access to food. One such initiative is the Free Food Pantry at the corner of Haywood and McCormick Streets. This location is between the UNCG buildings on Gate City Boulevard and the Glenwood neighborhood. All of those big buildings in the background belong to UNCG. The above free-standing food pantry resembles the free libraries. This yellow one looks like a giant block of cheese!  Supplying and using the box is the honor system. People donating only put food in the pantry (hence the box of toys at the side); people taking only take what they need and keep it nice. Yesterday when we visited, it was filled with plenty of bread, spaghetti-O's, and chick peas. There were a few other items like powdered milk and a couple cans of green beans. 

There are several other sources of free food and meals in Greensboro. If you use these services, likely you know who is serving where and on what days. If you know someone in need of food, or you are in a position to help, here is a list of organizations getting food to those in need. As the saying goes, it takes a village and Greensboro is a pretty awesome village. Happy Wednesday!

Liberty Oak Restaurant and Bar

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

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

Deep Roots Market Co-Op

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

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

Church Fundraisers

Many churches are selling Christmas trees, wreathes, and greenery as an end-of-year fundraiser. Morehead United Methodist Church has opted to set up a Dewey's Holiday Store. The church, located at 3214Horse Pen Creek Road, has the store open M-F from 10-6 and Saturdays from 10-5pm. The last day for the store is December 21st. It has been a difficult year for religious institutions. If you like to purchase baked goods this time of year, consider purchasing from a non-profit like a church or school group. The Dewey's sale at Morehead UMC will help the church a lot.

The fundraiser is not held on Sundays, but church is. Informal worship takes place at 9am; small groups 10am; traditional worship is at 11am. At one point, services were being held outside on the edge of the church property. If you elect to go today, take your mask and be flexible. Have a great day today, whether you are in Greensboro or reading from elsewhere!

 

View from Lewis Street

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

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

Rise & Grind Coffee

The Rise and Grind Mobile Coffee Pod was set up at the Made 4 Market Arts and Crafts Show this past Sunday. They were set up outside on the Yanceyville East Lindsay Street side of the Farmers Curb Market. Rise and Grind is known for their specialty coffees and hot chocolates. While they are based out of High Point, they attend many events in Greensboro, too.

Madeline and Robert Tomasic are the entrepreneurs behind this coffee venture. The red trailer has such a snappy look and the specialty drinks are really good, too. Maybe they will be at the arts & craft market on Sunday, December 6th. This will be a really big event at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market. We're betting they'll bring back their holiday spices, syrups, and flavors. Peppermint is a favorite! If you like to buy local, businesses like Rise and Grind are here to help!

Greensboro Farmers Curb Market

The Greensboro Farmers Curb Market has been serving up fresh produce since 1874. Located on Yanceyville Street across from the old War Memorial Stadium, the curb market is a place for farmers to sell their fresh produce and other edibles. It has also been a place for people to go to enjoy each other. You can talk directly to the farmers and learn from them. You can find vendors who specialize in items you like and arrange to have items ready for you at each market. Sometimes there is entertainment; sometimes themed-events. Today's photo features a view from the Lindsay Street Side, a lone shopper seated, long after the market had closed for the day.

The COVID era has changed the protocols for the market; masks; controlled entrance point; an earlier entry for the community's most vulnerable, more outside. The good produce and direct interaction with farmers keeps people returning week after week. Now is the time for cold weather vegetables, cabbage, greens, collards, turnips. If you want meats for the holidays, you might want to make plans soon. This upcoming Sunday 11/15/2020, the market will host a holiday arts and crafts event, Make 4 Market.

Got Persimmons? Craving Persimmons?

So many local businesses are selling local food products. It is not common to to see a sign advertising honey, local blends of tea and coffee, and, in the above case, persimmons. Persimmons are one of the great seasonal foods of fall. These Asian persimmons, bigger than the domestic persimmons, are available at Golden Antiques. Get them fast as the season is almost over. 

Golden Antiques is located on 220 in Summerfield. They have a little bit of everything, from antiques, to Nik-naks to arts and crafts, to COVID make to..... PERSIMMONS! Happy Friday and get out there and explore, if you can do it safely. Also, it is First Friday, which means things should be lively on Elm Street downtown.

The Bodega on Greene!

Greensboro has a bodega. Is you have grown up in New York City, you quite possibly had your favorite bodega. Bodegas are small grocery stores, often in neighborhoods with lots of Spanish speakers. Kids grow up with the bodega owners looking out for them. Lin-Manuel Miranda (of Hamilton Fame) has a new movie, "In the Heights" in which bodega culture is featured. Greensboro's bodega is located on Greene Street, just across from the Carolina Theatre and squarely between the Biltmore Hotel on Washington St. and the Hampton Inn on McGee Street. This idea of the bodega is to have food, snacks, and unanticipated items that people might need before seeing a performance or while staying in a hotel-- aspirin, needle and thread, breath mints- at very reasonable prices.

Todd Olson and Daniel Leonard, both entrepreneurs and owners of other food and drink businesses, opened the Bodega on February 19th, just before COVID hit. They had to close until July, but are open again. They are in the process of opening a sandwich shop inside the bodega. They already have an outdoor seating area, just waiting for performances to get in full swing at the Carolina Theatre so they can fill their seating area with theatre-going guests. They will even dim the lights for those who rush over during intermission so that customers can get back to the performance on time. If you are downtown, stop in and say hello to Todd and Daniel. If they don't have your go-to item, chances are, they'll start stocking it. Just need a quick cup of coffee with a little personal interaction, this long/skinny store is your place on South Greene!

Mexican Independence Day: September 16th

Yesterday, Greensboro's Mexican restaurants exuded a celebratory spirit. September 16th is a big day: Independence Day in Mexico and Mexican-Americans celebrate it, too. The above photo is a night shot of of La Bamba Mexican Restaurant on State Street. La Bamba opened on State Street in 1989 and continues today as a family-owned restaurant. Over the years, they have expanded and are now able to host large groups. La Bamba has lunch specials, house specialties, kids meals, and vegetarian meals; something for everybody. Their loyalty program is quite popular with patrons.

Mexico Restaurant on West Market Street opened in 1988, and La Bamba a year later. Since then, as the Mexican-American population of Greensboro grew in the 1990's more Mexican restaurants have opened and flourished here. There is something nostalgic about going to restaurants that have been around for over 30 years. We're betting some of the "Viva México" spirit will continue into the weekend.

 

The Old Mill of Guilford

The Old Mill of Guilford is such a fabulous piece of history dating back to 1767. It has gone through many changes and a few different owners over the past 253 years. Isn't that amazing that we have the history of this water-powered, grist mill dating back that many years. Truly, it is a point of pride for the community, providing mighty fine milled products: grits, corn meal, pancake mix, oatmeal, breakfast cereal, other grains, and many other products that can be ordered online. 

It is located in in northwest Guilford County, on Highway 68, near Oak Ridge.* The grinding process has remained the same for 200 years. Electricity to run the modern machinery is generated by the waterwheel. The wheel itself is 24' and rotates at a speed of 4.6 RPM. If you want to support a local business and purchase healthy natural products, order from the Old Mill of Guilford. If you are local, give them a visit. At the moment, it is not possible to go inside, but you can pick up products from the front door. They are open daily from 9-5, including Sunday. Needless to say, it is a great place to take photos.

* See their well documented history, HERE.

Crooked Tail Cat Cafe

The Crooked Tail Cat Cafe has been open for almost three years now. It was the the first one in North Carolina. (See earlier 2017 photo, here). It is located at 604 South Elm Street, across the street from Mellow Mushroom. While the goal is to get the cats adopted, it is also a place for them to roam and learn to socialize with each other, as well as with humans. The above kitty was the only one hanging out in the window the other day. It was as if he knew he needed to maintain a good social distance.

If you are interested, you can book a time slot online, here.

At the beginning of the year, Guilford County approved 12.5 million dollars for a new animal shelter on Guilford College Road. It will accommodate up to 324 dogs and 250 cats. That is a lot to take in that at any given time, there could be over 500 pets surrendered or abandoned that need homes. The Crooked Tail Cat Cafe is doing their part to try to find homes for cats. Working together, the people of Guilford County are making great strides in improving the quality of life for animals awaiting homes.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Watermelon Milkshake Time

The first week of August has come and gone and this is the last month that Cook Out will offer a watermelon milkshake. The above photos features a Cook Out patron sparked across Battleground Avenue enjoying a watermelon milkshake. You can see the drive through Cook Out store in the background, across the street. If you like milkshakes and watermelon, the combination is unbeatable and tastes of summer. There are very few woods we don't have access to year round; so, in a way, it is special to have a food item with limited availability. We do want to mention that we always upgrade to an extra serving of watermelon.

Did you know that Cookout was started in Greensboro? The first one was opened in 1989 on Randleman Road. The chain has expanded significantly and in 2012, they opened their 100th store, As of 2018, there were 250 Cook Out restaurants in over 100 cities, mostly throughout the southeast. Founder Morris Reaves owns the company and his son Jeremy is the CEO. It is a popular food option and seems to be doing well, especially this summer with so many sit-down restaurants operating at limited capacity. 

Happy Friday and let us know if you try a watermelon shake.