Greensboro Daily Photo

Ramadan Mubarak at Nazareth Bread

Ramadan is the holiest holiday for Muslims. Ramadan literally means "the hot month", a month of worship, prayer, studying the Quran, and fasting. Practicing Musilims get up before sunrise, eat breakfast, pray, and abstain from from food and liquids all day until after a final prayer at sunset. Once the sun sets, they break the fast and eat a meal. The above photo is the evening buffet at Nazareth Bread, located at 4507 West Market Street.  Due to demand, this Middle Eastern eatery offers this buffet during Ramadan. after a day of praying, reflecting and abstaining, people are ready to enjoy a meal together. This delicious buffet, which appears to extend forever, is $21.00.

Based on the People Groups website, There are over 10,000 people in Greensboro whose religion is Islam, and this number continues to grow. If you have Muslim friends you can help them by being mindful that they aren't able to eat or drink during the day. They may not want to be around while you are eating a meal or having your coffee break. If you want a great meal, stop by Nazareth Bread tonight and partake in this buffet. People of all faith groups are are welcome.

Happy Saturday!

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2023

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Greensboro will be awash with all things green, especially green libations for adults interested in partaking.*  As for us, we are out with our trusty canine looking for leprechauns and pots of gold. So far, all we have only managed to find is a little green man on a manhole cover. He has been painted green by the utility company. Do you think that is a hint treasure is nearby?  We have written about manhole covers twice on Greensboro Daily Photo; once in 2012 when we dug into the history of the Pomona Foundry that used to be in Greensboro and made manhole covers (see here). If our research is correct, they were acquired by Acme Castings left and moved from Greensboro (Pomona area near West Market and Spring Garden Streets) in 1969.

The second time we featured manhole covers was just about a year ago, when we were navigating the During-COVID- Era (DCE?) and wrote about the manhole rubbings done by Vito Ciccone (see here). That is an interesting post, if you haven't read it already. There, you can see that the above manhole cover design says "City of Greensboro North Carolina 1808" and you will realize the man in the middle is General Nathanael Greene, not a leprechaun. Do you have any manhole covers near where you live or walk? If so, look at what they say on them. We're wondering if any new covers are still cast with "Greensboro" or "Pomona" on them. What do the new ones say? These manhole covers weigh from 90-250 pounds. Do you know why they are round? Because the circle shape prevents them from ever being able to collapse inside!

Enough about manhole covers. We think we'll head over to M'Coul's Public House on West McGee Street downtown and have one of their (what we call) Irish meal bites: Deep fried, wonton wrapped corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and carrots.

Happy Friday! Happy St. Patrick's Day!

 

* See here for these adult events.

From Beef (Burger) to (Timmy's) Chicken

Ralph Harvis brought Beef Burger to Greensboro in 1971 where it remained open until 2021. The iconic building at 1040 W Gate City Boulevard has remained closed and dormant since Ralph's death in 2021.  On January 26, 2023, WFMY ran a segment, sharing that Beef Burger will become Timmy's Hot Chicken- already a  popular restaurant in Winston-Salem. Not unlike that ever-popular Chick-Fil-A, Timmy's will have a limited, but tasty, menu. Owner Timothy Walker reports that there is much work that needs to be done to bring the venue up to 21st century standards and to pass inspections. He hopes to maintain the feel of the Beef Burger at his chicken restaurant. 

In the photo, you can see UNCG's John Moyer Sink Sr. building with a smokestack right behind the former Beef Burger. However, the railroad tracks- still in use- run between Beef Burger and UNCG.  (800 Oakland Avenue); so, this is a case of close, yet oh so far. At the left, front corner of the building, you can see the dumpster used to clear out items that need replacing. It is expected to open to this summer. To be sure, we'll store this in a before/after file.

See the WFMY News 2 article here.   See an older GDP write up here.

Happy Tuesday!

 

Original Methodist Church

As you can read on this sign, the original Methodist church was built here on South Elm Street in 1831, 33 years after Greensboro became a city. Today, it is located on West Market Street and known as West Market Street United Methodist Church. This monochrome, black and white photo, taken yesterday, emphasizes the lines and the fact that the trees still don't have leaves. If you look to the right of the trees and streetlamp on the right, at the end of the awning. you can see a pear tree that has already bloomed. Spring is a little early this year in Greensboro.

The other side of this historic marker is entitled, Former Methodist Cemetery, and reads: The original Methodist cemetery, west of Elm and south of Bragg streets, was used for public burials also. In 1916 the city purchased the land to extend Ashe Street, so the graves were moved. The church purchased plots in Green Hill Cemetery for 106 bodies unclaimed by family members. We're off to Green Hill to see if we can find the section with the unclaimed bodies. Do any of you know what part of the cemetery they are buried in? There is always something new to learn about Greensboro.

Happy Sunday!

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Today is a federal holiday in recognition of the Martin Luther King Jr.   Dr. King was a spokesperson for nonviolent activism, and his work for the Civil Rights Movement in the United States is given special recognition on the third Monday of January every year. Today is meant to be a day of community service and civic engagement, and in Greensboro there are many opportunities to make it one. There is a (sold out) breakfast at the Khoury Convention Center; the parade starts downtown at 11:00 am. Another event, hosted from 2:30- 4:00 pm at the International Civil Rights Center & Museum at 134 South Elm Street today, is a program by Dr. Will Harris entitled "Beyond, and Better Than, "DEMOCRACY." 

The above photo was taken during an event at the museum during the Festival of Lights in downtown Greensboro on December 2nd, 2022. LaShon Hill was singing in front of a mural of the Greensboro Four: David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), Joe McNeil. Her performance was well received. The museum, in collaboration with NC A & T, UNCG, Bennett College, and Guilford College,  is hosting a speaker series this February and the lineup is fabulous: Al Sharpton, Andrew Young, Johnnetta Cole, and James Lawson. Between this speaker series and the Bryan Series, Greensboro is getting many memorable speakers this year. Having five institutions of higher education in our city is truly special. 

Happy Monday! How will you be spending the day?

Salvation Army and Modeling Philanthropy

Tis the eve before the eve before Christmas. Above, we see a mom with her three daughters ringing bells at the Salvation Army kettle in front of Belk at Friendly Center. Yesterday we wrote about philanthropist Mariam Brenner and her desire to model giving for her children and grandchildren. The mom in the photo today, has the same idea, not simply telling her children to be generous with their time and intentions, but to scaffold the act of serving others. All three girls were vested in the task and we weren't the only ones who asked to take a photo while donating. 

While many of the Christmas tree stands in Greensboro have closed up shop, the bell ringers for charity are still ringing strong; whether, literally as in Friendly Center, or figuratively, as in the shelters with white flags up. White flag days are ones where people in need of shelter can spend the night inside  of designated places (YWCA, GUM Weaver House lobby, IRC). They can use our support- especially this time of year.

For those who celebrate Christmas, we wish you a merry one; regardless of what is celebrated, let us all remember to help others- as best we can.

Advent 3rd Sunday

Today is the third Sunday of Advent, Mary and Joseph are on their journey, looking for lodging. Themes for church services this week will likely revolve around John the Baptist, angels, joy, and Mary. Above is part of the scene of The Nativity Scene on the front lawn of Greensboro College. The first figures were created in 1936. In 2007, they were vandalized. In 2011, the shepherd was stolen. Fortunately, in 2022, the figures have been  replaced and the display is intact. It is special to see the whole display during the day, and also the lighted scene at night. If it snows this December, that will be the best view of all. The scene will be up at least through December. This tradition that started 86 years ago is pretty special.

If you notice in the back top left corner, the JP/LFG building anchors the photo in Greensboro.

One more week until Christmas. For those celebrating Chanukah (the Feast of Dedication), it starts tomorrow!

Happy Sunday!

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.

Happy Thanksgiving 2022

Happy Thanksgiving 2022! Above are some trees in northeast Greensboro, featuring an array of fall colors, against a backdrop of blue sky. Greensboro is full of deciduous trees and they are especially beautiful in October and November. These trees remind us that sometimes we need to look at things from a different perspective to see the real beauty. They are prettiest when looking up at the sky and not straight ahead.

In thinking about a truly Greensboro photo for Thanksgiving, we missed the Friendsgiving event at LeBauer Park last Sunday, but are determined to make it next year. We wanted to get a photo of our friend's turkeys in northwest Greensboro, off of Highway 150. We didn't get that photo either, but know we are always welcome at her farm. Sometimes just knowing events, opportunities, and friends are out there means as much as actually participating in the event. Holidays can be like that; we don't get exactly what we want, but find a way to make them memorable.  From a full course Thanksgiving feast with family and friends to eating leftovers alone, please celebrate yourself and Greensboro (or wherever you happen to live).

We are super thankful that you are one of our readers. We will work our hardest to keep you coming back and will work on getting a Thanksgiving photo more obviously anchored in Greensboro.

Happy Thanksgiving, from "the staff" at Greensboro Daily Photo.

'Tis the Season, Indeed!

The above photo was taken at yesterday's "MADE 4 THE HOLIDAYS" Market at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville Street. The weather was cool, but sunny, and the event was well attended. It was so nice to see the market full of artists and crafters; actually, there were also vendors even vendors outside. Vendors able to return inside as renovations are now complete. One part of the renovation was the painting of the braces on the ceiling. The black paint not only looks nice, it is said to be more durable than the finish that had been there previously.

To the left, you see lights for sale at Gardner's Garden, perfect for outdoor, holiday decorating. The people who sell the 3' lighted stars were there (lights are attached to wooden sticks and can be used indoors or outside). The next Made 4 the Holidays event will be Sunday, December 4th from 11:00 am- 4:00 pm. In the meantime, there are shows popping up everywhere, from people's homes to church fellowship halls, to independent stores, to The Craftsmen's Christmas Classic Art & Craft Festival at the Greensboro Coliseum (November 25-27). There are about 6 weeks until Christmas. Please make every effort to shop local. The artist and crafters yesterday were all talking about how wonderful it felt to be back in person and interacting with their old customers and making new. They are ready for us! Head out and see that renovated farmers market.

Happy Monday!

Veterans Day 2022

Happy Veterans Day 2022. The above photo was taken during a Memorial Day service at Friendly Center in May. Nothing says respect, military, and veterans than a salute. While the people are unidentified, you can see the focus of the veterans at the flag raising. Out of respect for veterans, county offices and Guilford County Schools are closed for this federal holiday, once known as Armistice Day. Greensboro's 6th annual Veterans Day Parade was held last weekend on November 5th. If you want to honor veterans in our community, the Field of Honor is a nice place to visit. Also, there is a memorial for veterans at Country Park. There is also a veterans memorial at 301 North Church Street. 

If there is a veteran in your life, or if you see one out in uniform, please remember to thank them for their service. If the opportunity presents itself, treat a veteran to a cup of coffee or a meal. 

Happy Veterans Day and thank you for your service.

Day of the Dead

For those who celebrate Day of the Dead, you know that it is today and yesterday. The above photo was taken last night at the Center for Visual Artists in the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street. Casa Azul has put up altars, remembrances for deceased relatives. There are 12 altars in all; at least that's what we think. There was a high school student there counting them for an assignment for Spanish class. Many of the altars, also known as ofrendas, were created by middle and high school students. Casa Azul is a group that supports Latino arts and culture. Every November, they install altars to help celebrate latino cultures and also to educate people about the purpose of the holiday. The movies "Coco" and "The Book of Life" are a great place to start if you want to understand the cultures. Of course, you could also ask someone who celebrates the holiday or your favorite Spanish teacher.

If you are interested in seeing the ofrendas and learning more about them, the display will be up, free, and open to the public now through November 12th. Remember, this Friday is First Friday, a perfect opportunity to see the display. On Friday and Saturday, there will be music in the Van Dyke Performance Space in the Cultural Arts Center. Hope to see you there!

Happy Wednesday!

 

Pumpkin Wall in Sunset Hills

Dear Readers: We are having trouble with the Typepad server. In the meantime, we are determined to continue posting until they fix their site or we find a new site to host our blog. Today's post is the pumpkin wall at the tennis courts of Sunset Hills. See photo HERE. Neighbors carve a pumpkin and bring it to the pumpkin wall on East Greenway. Imagine the fun families have, especially families with small children. Our photo is just a slice of the pumpkins available to view. The wall makes a great backdrop for selfies. We imagine it will be here for a few more days.

For those who celebrate, did you have a nice Halloween? Did you get any trick or treaters? There were several in Sunset Hills last night, not droves, but at least a dozen groups came to the door of the house we were visiting. Happy  last day of October ! Can you believe tomorrow will be month 11, Day 305 of 2022?!

Halloween on Deep Green

Deep Green is another one of those streets with lots of Halloween spirit. The street is located between Westwood, North Friendly Acres, and British Woods. It is also on the south east corner of Westminster Gardens Cemetery and Crematory. The above white painted brick house, at 3420, was built in 1975. The current owners have been there about four years and their simple decoration of six witches gathering around a tree is hauntingly realistic. Don't you wonder what they are saying to each other!

Be on the lookout for Trunk-or-Treat events in Greensboro. Unity in Greensboro, at 501 South Mendenhall #302 is having theirs on Sunday (Oct 30) from 5-7pm. Tomorrow night (Wed., Oct. 26) , Elm Street is having an event at 6:00 pm. It is dubbed,  Nightmare-Off-Elm Street at 192 East Lewis Street. It sounds like other establishments will join in the fun. Be careful when you are downtown. It is NCA&T Homecoming week and there is always increased foot and vehicle traffic. Be mindful, especially of pedestrians when downtown- well, anywhere, actually. Meanwhile back at Deep Green, you won't be disappointed if you add to this to your map of Halloween viewing pleasure!

Happy Tuesday!

 

Halloween on Gracewood

Halloween is such a fun, fall holiday for many in Greensboro. It seems like houses either go all out, or skip the holiday entirely. One of the all-in,  spirit houses between Bryan Boulevard, Battleground, Holden, and Westridge is 2304 Gracewood at the corner of Noble. This photo is a tiny fraction of the decoration on that corner lot. The house has so much to display, from tombstones to large figures, to a "do not enter" (but enter)-tent, the owner hires someone to help him set up. It takes hours and hours to stage the display. On Halloween, the house will be even more impressive as there is a fog machine going full blast. It is the kind of display where little ones have to work up their courage to visit- all for the bragging rights for bravery and a piece of candy. The owner estimates he will get about 400 trick or treaters! Do you have a house like this in your neighborhood?

This owner is saving up to get one of those giant skeletons that moves and looks like it is following you. They are from $300- $500, depending on whether you buy them from a store or have to purchase from someone who is reselling. We'd love for someone to purchase one for 2304 Gracewood. Imagine a neighbor who decorates and brings joy to so many. What a tradition! He has lived here for about 30 years and has been decorating for a big part of that time. It all started with a noisemaker, one of those boxes that makes spooky comments as you walk by, and has grown into a grand collection. Stop by this week to get one example of how Greensborians, the ones who go all out, celebrate Halloween!

Happy Monday!

May we all do a little something to bring joy to others, just like the owner of 2304 Gracewood! We are so lucky to live in Greensboro.

Downtown Decorations

It is beginning to look a lot like Halloween in downtown Greensboro. Especially from the 500 block of South Elm Street  to Bain Street, downtown is very colorful. The above window is the decoration of Terra Blue, a store that sells spiritual gifts, beads and findings, bath salts, coffee, and more. Allen and Sarah McDavid opened a shop in 1999 in a neighborhood and then moved to the above location downtown. Their shop, over 20 years old, is in a building that used to be shared with the Browsery, in the building owned by Ben Matthews.* Terra Blue was very creative during the Pandemic, setting up shop outside in the entranceway of the store. Now, they have in inventory in both sides of the building and their window displays just keep getting better and better.

Last night was First Friday, the weather was nice and there were plenty of galleries, shops, bars, and restaurants open for everyone's enjoyment. The cultural arts center featured an art exhibit. The downtown parks had people in them; in Center City Park for the Drum Circle and LeBauer Park for Salsa dancing. The moon was not quite full, but it was bright, illuminating everything in its path. The serendipity of strolling on Elm Street on a night with so many places open is delightful. As we were taking this picture, a boy about 4 years walked by and started talking to us. His mom reminded him that he just can't talk to even?ryone. Persistend, he asked "Who are you?" What would you say if a four year old stranger asked you that question. Then, we stopped to watch Brian Caviness sculpting at Ambleside Gallery and then headed back up the other side of the street. The evening was very relaxing!

Happy Saturday! Head out and make some memories.

 

* read Yes Weekly article about Ben and the Browsery, here.

Watching Fireworks and Making Memories over the Fourth

If you are someone who love fireworks, and you live in the Greensboro area, you may have gone to Greensboro's fireworks in Gibsonville on Sunday night. Since the Greensboro fireworks were in east Guilford County the night before, last night was wide open for people to attend the Greensboro Grasshoppers game, and stay for the fireworks after the game. The baseball game was a sell out and the Grasshoppers beat the Greenville Drive, 11-4. And the fireworks were, truly, a grand finale! The above photo was taken at yet another fireworks opportunity in Guilford County, at Oak Hollow Lake in High Point. Children and families sat along the lake and, just after dark, fireworks lit up the sky as children (yes CHILDREN) sat around perfecting their photography and videography skills capturing digital memories. The night was relaxing and family oriented with carloads of people driving, and many walking,  to see the fireworks display. To be sure, families were making memories. 

Stop back to GDP throughout the week and we'll have some Fun Fourth photos from downtown Greensboro to show you. Those of us who stayed in town had plenty to do in all parts of the county!

Happy Tuesday!

Happy July!

Can you believe it is already July? In two days, it will be the Fourth of July and many people will be celebrating. During holidays, it is fun to drive around and see how houses are decorated. The above colonial home on Fleming Road is holiday ready. The white, colonial Williamsburg home, with its simple framework, symmetry, and two stories, really stands out with the flags and red, white, and blue banners. The home was built in 1985, just as Greensboro was starting to experience a housing boom. The one-acre lot looks well maintained, without being overly manicured. The current owners have been in the house for a little over a year and it looks like they are taking good care of it. The architecture is such that the home could be as easily 100 years old as it is 37!

If you are out and about today, don't forget to go to one of the many farmers markets in and around Greensboro. Produce is coming on strong. You should see lots of peppers, cucumbers, squash, figs, blueberries, and more. Buy local and buy today so that you will have plenty to share on the Fourth! Oh, and don't forget, today is Day 2 62 days that Cookout will be selling watermelon milkshakes! There is another destination for you!

Mt. Pisgah Choir Sings at Memorial Day Service at Friendly Center

It is always nice when churches perform community service. Today's photo features the Mt. Pisgah Choir singing at the Memorial Day Service at Friendly Center. Music always adds such a nice touch to any ceremony. Their Department of Music offers opportunities for people of all ages to be involved in music, starting as young as 4 years old. The church has a praise team band, a handbell choir, and more. Amberly Johnston is their director of music.* The music program at Mt. Pisgah UMC is very strong, if you are looking for an opportunity to share your special talent, or just have a desire to participate. We're not sure where else the choir will perform out in the community, but to be sure, they will be singing at the 8:30 and 11:00 am services today. Mt. Pisgah is located at 2600 Pisgah Church Road. It is the church you can see from the Lowe's parking lot on Battleground Avenue.

After church, if you are looking for something to do, head to the Parisian Promenade in Bicentennial Gardens on Hobbs Road from 12:00 - 5:00 pm today.  The event is free and open to the public. It is a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. A promenade is a paved public walk; to promenade is to take a leisurely public walk so as to see or be seen by others. Remember, as you stroll along the path that YOU TOO are an important part of the event- and plan your outfit accordingly!

Happy, glorious Sunday!

 

* more information here.

Memorial Day: Colonel Welch

The Memorial Day service at Friendly Center (always at 8:00 am at the flagpole) is a wonderful way to start the day, remembering those who paid the ultimate price to defend our country. Detachment 260 of the Marine Corps League held the ceremony and the service was well attended. Even though the event was hosted by the Marine Corps, people of all branches of the service, as well as civilians, were equally welcome. One person in attendance was Colonel Ed Welch, US Army, Retired.* Colonel Welch retired with his last duty assignment in the Pentagon, where he was a medical mobilization officer who coordinated the blood supply of military and civilian hospitals. After retirement, in Greensboro, he has volunteered at the American Red Cross blood center on Yanceyville Street. Colonel Welch is a man who gives of his time to serve whether it was in the military, at the Red Cross, or at his church, Friendly Avenue Baptist. 

It is so important for us to take time out of our busy schedules to attend events like yesterday's Memorial Day service; first, to honor those who lost their lives serving our country; second, to have an opportunity to meet inspiring pillars of our community like Colonel Welch. If you have children or grandchildren, the Friendly Center Memorial Day service is a good "first event" for children. It lasts only about 15 minutes, and, if you get there early or linger, soldiers and officers are very accessible and like to talk about their military service. 

In the article we found (referenced below) Colonel Welch reminds readers that, "So much of our life is dictated by the Golden Rule. The Geneva Convention dictates that a wounded combatant receive the same medical care as your own soldiers. Soldiers are people that have a job to do. They don't make the decisions. Politicians do."  It is easy to dehumanize someone who is on "the other side." Colonel Welch reminds us of the importance of the Golden Rule. Most religions have some type of ethic of reciprocity. These are the kind of things you learn and think about when you meet and talk to veterans. Colonel Welch is an inspiration to us all!

Happy Tuesday!

 

* reference and additional information about Colonel Welch in the News and Record form 2003.

Memorial Day... Remembering Those Who Served

Happy Memorial Day. Today is the day that we honor people in the military who died serving our country. Today's photo is being republished from Memorial Day 2011 on Greensboro Daily Photo. The photo was taken at the program in the Veterans Plot of the Forest Lawn Cemetery. Eleven years ago when we took the photo, the speaker was the Honorable Howard Coble. Representative Coble served in the U.S. House or Representatives from 1985-2015, and he held other public offices even before then. He was the kind of representative who would accept an intern for the joy of mentoring someone into the ways of politics and not ask them their political affiliation. He was the kind of person who would write letters for his constituents to make sure they got their passports when they needed them. Sometime it is the little things that we remember long after someone is gone. Representative Coble died on November 3, 2015. Mr. Coble served in the Coast Guard, so events for veterans and for the fallen were near and dear to his heart. He honored as many speaking engagements as he possibly could on Memorial Day.

We don't know the people in the photo, but we do know that they served and fought for the USA. If you go to an event today, please remember to thank the family members who lost loved ones who were serving. Also, at 3:00pm, this afternoon, people will be playing taps in remembrance. Events happening today include the following:

8:00 am: Friendly Center near the main flagpole.

11:00 am: Veterans' Memorial Wall, Wrenn-Miller Park 101 Guilford Road Jamestown.

11:00 am: Carolina Field of Honor Triad Park Kernersville (where taps will be played).

There are probably other events, but these are the main ones we know of in Greensboro today. Take a few minutes to stop and be thankful. We have so many new readers, we are thankful you are here.

Congregational United Church of Christ, Prepared for Easter

Happy Easter, Passover, and Ramadan. All three of these Abrahamic religions coincide this year. Featured today is the Congregational United Church of Christ on Radiance Drive in Greensboro. If you notice, just to the right of the "A JUST WORLD FOR ALL" flag, you can see someone working on the grounds. This church, tucked away off Friendly Avenue, is known for being accepting and, as a result, has attracted quite a diverse population. They are also known for being stewards of the earth. To that end, next Sunday, April 24th, from 1-4 pm, they will hold an Earth Day Festival at  their very own Habitat Refugium. 

At The Earth Day Festival attendees will have an opportunity to tour the Habitat Garden and learn about native plants and pollinators; listen to live music and storytellers; and make art and peruse displays. They will even be giving away plants that attract pollinators.

But for today, pastor Julie Peeples will be preaching John's account of the resurrection and flowers will be placed on the cross. The organ prelude for the service begins at 10:50 and will be in person and live streamed on their Facebook page. After the service, they will hold an egg hunt for the children.  Today is such an important day for Christians and it is important to find a way to help all feel included in the service, including the little ones who will remember that post-service egg hunt for a very long time. Have a great day, Regardless of what you celebrate and where you are located. 

Eggstravaganza in Downtown Greensboro!

Today is the day for the Downtown Greensboro Truliant Eggstravaganza. There are hidden eggs and prizes throughout downtown. Participating businesses have eggs hidden in their establishment and if you find one and show a picture of the egg at the register, you'll receive an egg with a prize. The event is happening today and tomorrow. Read HERE for more details. In the above photo, Lauren and Allen of Healthy Boro Fitness and Nutrition Shop were toting bags of eggs to their juice and smoothie shop, Healthy Boro is located at 106 Paisley Street, just north of the Marriott. 

For the last four years, Lauren and Allen have been providing customers with nutritional liquid meals and more. They are such an upbeat, positive couple. Spend a few minutes around them and you will feel the positive energy of this husband and wife team. Stop by their store tomorrow and hunt for an Easter egg and you just may win one of the big prizes. Lauren and Allen carried these large bags of Easter eggs all the way from 536 South Elm Street to their shop on Paisley. That is a pretty long walk! Healthy Boro is not open on Saturday, so, if you want to earn one of those eggs, see them today. Some businesses are participating on Friday and Saturday. We had to laugh because we spotted Lauren and Allen when we were at the corner of McGee and South Elm. By the time we ran to catch up with them, they were already in front of Scuppernong Book Sellers! Meeting them was well worth the run. Happy Friday!

Friendly Avenue Baptist Church Fire Truck Easter Egg Drop

Yesterday was a very special day at Friendly Avenue Baptist Church.....

Children, from toddlers to 5th graders, were invited to hear the Easter story and then participate in the Fire Truck Easter Egg Drop. In the above photo, you see children scrambling to gather Easter eggs filled with treats, just after the eggs had been dropped from a fire truck's bucket ladder extended several stories high. In addition, there were stations all over the church lot with games, activities, and light snacks for the children. Everything was free and family friendly. Every detail was meticulously executed. Participants pre-registered, ensuring sufficient volunteer staff and enough Easter eggs.  By the start of the event yesterday, thousands of eggs were carefully stuffed and sealed with tape- wheel barrels full. Children were given clear empty bags to stuff with plastic eggs. In spite of the cool, breezy weather, fun was had by all. Friendly Avenue is known for having these big, inclusive events that help build memories for children. Yesterday was one of many examples of their efforts to build a sense of community.

If you were wanting to go to church at Friendly Avenue today, Palm Sunday, there is an 8:30 am service; Sunday school is at 9:45am;  and the late service is at 11:00am. Five o-clock in the evening is Kids Praise time; students and adults also have a group gathering at 5:00 pm. For Christians, today, Palm Sunday, commemorates the entrance of Christ into Jerusalem, when palm branches were placed down, marking the path. We're betting today will also be a very special day at Friendly Avenue Baptist.

Happy Sunday!

Almost Valentine's Day

It is almost valentines day and we're head over heels in love with all of the Valentine's Day window displays around town. The above window is at the Green Bean Coffee House at 341 South Elm Street. The window decorations are so cute and we like the store name in the middle window, a graphic that is a great marketing tool. The Green Bean has been a Greensboro institution since 2002; that's twenty years of good coffee and good times. 

If you are looking for something to do today for an early Valentine's Day celebration, consider going to one of the farmers markets, and later one of the brew pubs. Almost all of them are offering something extra special this weekend. To be sure, we'll be heaving to the Full Circle Market at Oden Brewing today from 12:00 pm- 4:00 pm. There will be artists and vendors at their 2nd Saturday market. It doesn't look like the Green Bean is hosting any special events today, but they are always opening to having events if you are looking for a venue.

Have a great Saturday and don't forget to tell those special people in your life that you love them- everyday, but especially on Saturday.

Abba Design

In 2020, in the height of the pandemic, we featured the designers at Abba Design because they installed a lovely wall of live flowers in front of Wesley Long Hospital on Friendly Avenue. Tuesday, we were out doing a little urban walking and passed by their studio at 700 North Eugene Street. The outside of the studio is decorated so beautifully for Valentines Day. The designers at Abba plan and coordinate florals for weddings, offer subscription services for florals, and will provide you with lovely holiday decorating. They also handle corporate and price accounts. While we haven't booked anything for Valentines Day, as we were walking by, we just had to stop and admire the display on site. Every table had a bouquet of flowers on it. The fact that the late afternoon was sunny created dramatic shadows and made the red flowers and decorations simply pop.

So many of the stores in downtown Greensboro have displays for Valentines Day. Even if Abba is already booked for the holiday,  is never too late to do a little something for the special people in your life. You should even consider treating yourself to a floral subscription service.

Happy Wednesday!

Ringing in the New Year

Happy day before New Year's Eve. It isn't too late to peruse the internet and find something to do in downtown Greensboro. The above photo features South End Brewery and Kitchen. Their New Years Eve party starts at 9:30 pm tonight. They will have live music, free champagne toasting at midnight (while supplies last) and you will get to see a keg drop to bring in the new year. We don't know if they will offer a full menu tonight, but one of the really nice aspects of South End is that they offer a full food menu. It is such a great place to eat, hang out, and celebrate. The peace sign at the entrance reminds us to always keep the peace when interacting in public. Santa on the roof is another reminder that if you are not nice, Santa will know.

All of Lewis Street should be hopping tonight, including the Boxcar Bar & Arcade, right across the street from South End.  Of course other places around Greensboro will be lively, too. Whatever you decide to do, please be safe. 2022 is sure to be a good one. Happy New Year, dear readers!

Santa of Chapman Street

Merry Christmas! The above house, on Chapman Street is where Jack True served as Greensboro's Santa for three decades. Mr. True and his family rented this house for years and eventually were able to buy the house with the help of people in Greensboro who appreciated all he did for the community. Mr. True derived great pleasure seeing the joy her brought all of the families who brought their children by to see Santa and his decorated house. He also decorated for other holidays, especially Halloween, Easter, and the Fourth of July.

Mr. True died of leukemia in 2003 and his family continues decorating, carrying on his spirit. We wish you.a Merry Christmas 2021. Let us all do something to bring joy to others today. If you get a chance, drive by South Chapman street tonight and see this glowing little house down over the hill. It will bring a smile to your face. If you knew Mr. True, it might even bring back memories of his handing out candy to children, beck in an era when times seemed to much simpler. Have a great day!

It Sure Looks Like Christmas At 309 South Elam!

This house at 309 South Elam is a good example of the exuberant holiday decorating in the Sunset Hills, Lindley Park neighborhoods. Right across from the First Moravian Church, this house is as enthusiastically decorated as the church is calmly understated. The two tree/bushes are mature crepe myrtle. We're betting the Christmas tree on the porch probably sets the tone for what is inside the house. This single family home, built in 1945 is fairly typical of the houses around it, although many of the homes in the neighborhood were built in the 1920s and 1930s.

For those who value a sense of community and walkability in a neighborhood, these homes in the Walker/Elam area are very desirable. Have a drive this evening and experience the magic and neighborhood spirit.

A Sunset Hills Christmas

The above photo was taken, just as the sun was setting, in Greensboro. The corner of Ridgeway and Madison is "Ground Zero" for the giant ball decorations wrapped with lights. The neighborhood is decorated and ready for carloads to drive through. Last weekend, the Running of the Balls was held. All that remains now is to drop off your donations for local food banks and to simply enjoy all of the time and effort Sunset Hills has put into decorating. The display is especially beautiful because there isn't excessive light pollution. 

Perhaps you read about local middle school student, Cooper Dunning, who makes the lighted balls to sell, using the money to partially fund his college savings and to partially donate to a local charity. His goal is to make 1,000 of the balls this year; no easy task when you have to bend the chicken wire just right so it looks round and to space the lights evenly across the round surface. The non-profit he has chosen to help this year is the "Green for Greens" program that doubles food assistance vouchers for families in need.* How wonderful to see the younger generation stepping up and continuing the decorating and for their helping non-profits.

The Sunset Hills neighborhood was founded in 1924 and every year it just seems to keep getting better and better, as does this holiday decorating and collecting of food. The family of Jonathan and Anne Smith first started the tradition with two lighted, chicken-wire balls in 1996.  Also, their yard is one of the collection places for the local food bank. If you have not experienced Sunset Hills at Christmas, you need to do what you can to get there. Happy Thursday!

 

*read more HERE.

 

Happy Hanukkah 2021

Hankkah is an 8-day festival of light commemorating the recovery of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Second Temple in the second century BCE. Hanukkah ends tomorrow (Monday, December 6th, so tonight, the menorah (above) will be shining brightly with all eight candles lit. The above menorah is installed in Greensboro at Temple Emanuel at the corner of Hobbs and Jefferson. 

This menorah is one of the largest in North Carolina. Members of the Brotherhood group at Temple Emanuel  help install the menorah every year. . The installation is both a religious act, and, an opportunity to have a little fellowship with other men who attend the temple. .The menorah looks much more impressive in person and on a clear night when it is illuminated. If you get a chance, drive by tonight and have a look! Have a nice day and, Happy Hanukkah! The Jewish community has done so much for Greensboro and their positive influence is seen everywhere, including at the corner of Hobbs, and Jefferson!

 

Festival of Lights, Let the Season Begin!

The Festival of Lights last night was extremely well attended. The two downtown City of Greensboro Parks (Center City and LeBauer) were stuffed with vendors, performers, food trucks, and the many festival going people of Greensboro. A good time was had by all. The above photo features the lighting of the Holiday tree in Center City Park, just before 7:00 p.m. last night.Can you see all of the phones positioned to get a photo of the lighting? 

After the lighting of the tree, people lingered in the parks, went to the Cultural Arts Center, and/or strolled along Elm Street. There are so many shows and events today, it should be easy to find something to do. The holiday parade starts at 12 noon today. Additionally, you can find plenty of opportunities to have fun downtown, and beyond! Remember to shop local.

If you want to see some other activities, there are so many options today. Let us know what you find. 

First Friday, Tonight In #DGSO

After a one-year, COVID hiatus, First Friday in downtown Greensboro has returned. The Festival of Lights, a tradition that dates back thirty years, will officially start at 5:30 p.m. The tree lighting will happen in Center City Park at 6:56 p.m. (We're not sure how that precise time was chosen, but, if you arrive at 7:00 p.m., you will be four minutes late).*  Throughout the evening, there will be food trucks, music and other entertainment, and many of the shops and restaurants will stay open late. There is even a market in LeBauer Park. The festival continues along Elm Street, all the way to the South 600 block. 

There will even be live ice sculpting, sponsored by Fidelity Bank and there is ice skating at the west end of Lewis Street. Today's high is predicted to be at 70º and drop to 55º by 8:00 p.m. Let's hope the ice will hold its form on this unseasonably warm day. This above street scene shows the Marshmallow Roasting Station in Hamburger Square from 2019. A good time was had by all in 2019 and should be had by all tonight.

*see here for more details, including a map.

Sunnyside Farms a Local Option for Christmas Trees

Since we were in Summerfield this past weekend, and featured The Jumping Bean yesterday, we thought we'd share another photo from Summerfield Road. Above, you see a slice of the view at Sunnyside Farms, a Christmas tree farm in Ashe County.  For 19 years, the Woyahn has been driving Fraiser fir trees to Guilford County from their Ashe County farm located in the northwest corner of North Carolina. The entire county has fewer than 30,000 people, so coming to larger communities like Greensboro and Summerfield is a must for keeping their business viable.

Their pop up Christmas tree site at 7200 Summerfield Road opened this past week and they will keep selling trees into late December. They are also set up at Hickory Grove Church on Wendover Avenue in the Greensboro/Jamestown area.  Sunnyside Farms works hard to make the selection of a tree a special event: From selecting to trimming to bagging to helping you get it on your car. And their giant 3-story Santa is always a hit with the kids. Even if you are past the tree decorating years, being out and watching how excited young children are about picking out a tree really helps create the feeling of Christmas. Even though we don't have snow, the colder weather in Greensboro and the surrounding communities, is making it feel a lot like winter. It also helps keep the trees fresher.

Happy Tuesday!

First Santa Sighting of 2021!

Golden Antiques, on 220 North at Highway 150, held their Mistletoe Market this past weekend and shoppers were out in droves. If their long checkout lines were any indication, people are making a lot of effort to shop early and local this year. The Santa at Golden Antiques was the first one we saw out this season. Indeed, Santa, or at least Santa's helpers are out even before Thanksgiving. Several other stores are stocked for holiday shopping. 

Downtown Greensboro Inc. has announced that the Festival of Lights will be held downtown on Friday, December 3rd with the tree lighting in Center City Park and other events up and down Elm Street. The Greensboro Holiday Parade will be on Saturday, December 4th. In addition to the usual floats, bands, and dance/cheer squads, there will be some giant balloons, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade style. So get out your planner as the December dance card is filling! How do you stay informed about upcoming events? We're finding that it is harder and harder to know about events before they happen. If you have suggestions, please let us know.

(By the way, we are happy to report that Santa has lost a little bit of weight and looking in good health).

Happy Veterans Day: Tech Sergeant Lochra

Albert (Al) Lochra served in the Army Air Force as a radio operator during World War II. He flew on B-17 airplanes and was stationed in England from 1943-1945. Originally from Uniontown, PA, Mr. Lochra first came to Greensboro in 1943 to Basic Training Camp #10. Two years later, in 1945, he would return here to the Discharge Center at the end of his service. Along the way, he met his wife (Mary) Helen Fletcher Lochran who grew up near Bessemer, just outside Greensboro. The two married in 1947 and Mr. Lochra has lived in Greensboro since 1949. He lost his wife in 2014 and now lives with his daughter and son in law.

Mr Lochra has a keen memory and can describe his early childhood and the war years in great detail. He remembers fondly practically growing up in his father's grocery store in southwestern Pennsylvania, and also the hoops he had to jump through to volunteer for the army. He also talked about the three "mercy" missions  he made in Europe during the war. One of the flights was to get people out of Austria and to bring them to safety in Chartres, France; one was to take American soldiers, eligible for release, to Morocco to board planes to return to the United States; and one was to take food to Holland, a mission that the US Army negotiated with the Germans. At 96 years of age, Mr. Lochra  served the military five years before the Air Force was founded in 1947. Greensboro is extremely lucky to have Mr. Lochra in our presence. He still walks a mile a day, whether it is outside in front of his house, or, on colder days, twenty times around the living room to get his mile. He offered to put on his (original) uniform for the photo, and knows it still fits as he wore it to a service on Sunday. We opted not to trouble him to run upstairs to get it. Greensboro salutes you Tech Sergeant Lochra, today on Veterans Day, and every day!

Halloween 2021, on Walker Avenue

Sunset Hills may have the reputation for the most collective Christmas spirit with those round light balls in the trees. However, Lindley Park went all out last night creating a pretty fabulous Halloween. Some streets in the neighborhood were closed to vehicle traffic. There were children galore out trick-or-treating in the neighborhood. Walker Avenue, between Elam and Wendover Avenue was really alive. Specifically, 2406 Walker Avenue was especially celebratory. They had a Karaoke robot dancer and lazer light show. On the left, what looks like flames is light and a smoke machine. Children and adults alike were mesmerized. The family in this small house on Walker, built in 1925- almost 100 years ag0- really knows how to bring the neighborhood alive.

We hope schools, families, and teachers alike all have grace today. Between the NCA&T Homecoming this past weekend and all of the Halloween events, there will be a lot of tired people today. But, whenever it is possible to safely celebrate together, being a little tired the next day, is a small price to pay. Last night, we officially said goodbye to October. Hello November, we are ready for you, from Walker Avenure and beyond!

Dia De los Muertos

Today's photo features one of the altars from the 2020 Casa Azul Day of the Dead/Día de los Muertos exhibit. It was set up in the Center for Visual Artists at the Greensboro Cultural Center at 200 North Davie Street. Last year, with more stringent COVID restrictions, families brought in pre-made altar boxes. This exhibit features photos of the deceased and the Virgin of Guadalupe, an apparition of the Virgin Mary in Mexico in 1531.

The Day of the Dead holiday starts tomorrow, as does the 2021 Día de Muertos Offend Exhibition in the Center for Visual Artists (see HERE). Opening night hours, November 1st, will be from 5-8pm. Tuesday will be extended hours from 12 noon - 8pm. The event is free and open to the public and will be shown until November 13th. If you and your family celebrate Day of the Dead, you will already know about the holiday. If not, The holiday is a time to honor ancestors and loved ones that have gone to the spirit world. The movies "The Book of Life" and "Coco" are related to the holiday. Also, you can learn about it from the exhibit and Casa Azul volunteers. 

Pumpkin Patch Time

It is pumpkin time again and this patch found out in front of the Guilford College United Methodist Church at 1205 Fleming Road, where it intersects with New Garden Road and Ballinger Road.  You only have to walk around the pumpkin patch and look at the signage to realize just how dynamic this church is. In addition to church service, they have Girl and Boy Scout troops meeting there. They offer adult English classes on Wednesdays. They have a pre-school.  They are advertising a Brunswick stew sale. This Saturday, October 23rd, from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, they are having a Fall Festival with professional crafters and a bake sale. This should be a fun event and one of many things you will be able to do this weekend to get out and celebrate autumn. If you buy a pumpkin, the proceeds to to the youth groups at the church. What a wonderful opportunity to do something for a church that does so much for the community.

Do you have your pumpkins yet? Do you like the traditional orange or are you seeking the white, green, and pastel ones? Do you like the textured ones that look like they have warts on them? It seems like every year there are more and more novel options. Happy week of the full moon! Happy pumpkin hunting!

Halloween, Yes She's on her Way!

Halloween is over two weeks away, but decoration is well underway in Greensboro. The above scene was found on Scott Avenue in Lindley Park- and every indication is that they aren't done yet! Can you imagine being a child and happening upon this scene? Would you have the nerve to walk past or walk up to the door to trick-or-treat? This is only one side of the yard. We may have to stop by for another photo of the other side! By the way, do you see the face in the upper window? Or, are you still trying to get past the doll in the cage? She is pretty creepy. There is a monster up the street, even bigger than the skeleton and it moves!

Since it is the weekend, if you want a little spooky fun, walk around your neighborhood and see what what decorations are out there. If you love spooky, the City of Greensboro is hosting a Fright Night Halloween Walk in Country Park tonight from 5:30- 7:30. By 7:00, it will be almost completely dark. You may want to go a little earlier. It is presented by the Greensboro Jaycees (details here). Happy Friday.