Greensboro Daily Photo

Happy July 4th 2024

Full disclosure, the above photo was taken during the Fun Fourth Festival 2023 in downtown Greensboro on South Elm Street. Uncle Sam was working hard walking in the heat and agreeing to take a photo with anyone who asked. The event, Freedomfest, will be held today from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. There will be entertainment, patriotic characters, food trucks, water features, and more. Plan your outfit carefully for the best photos. See all of the festival details, including a map and schedule, HERE. Fireworks will start downtown after the Greensboro Grasshoppers  home baseball game.  The baseball stadium is your best bet for a good view. If you do not have a ticket, setting up a foldable chair outside the stadium is another option. Last year, the game was sold out. 

Meanwhile, just a little north of downtown, the Kirkwood neighborhood will be celebrating for the 75th year. The parade on Independence Road and the 50' flag are the anchors. When you see the 50 foot flag hovering  over the street, you will know you are in the right place. The Kirkwood event times overlap with Freedomfest downtown; however, their neighborhood, originally established for returning WWII vets and their families, will have no shortage of patriotism. However you spend your day today, be safe and neighborly.

Happy Fourth of July!

Reflecting on Fireworks & Starbucks... and the Fourth

Today is the last Saturday in June, which means it is almost July 4th and summer is well underway. The above photo was taken on Battleground Avenue at Edney Ridge Road in the plaza where Aldi is located. The scene got us smiling. Somehow, a fireworks tent and a new stand-alone Starbucks store seem like a strange combination. But, we all need our holiday traditions. Fourth of July and fireworks, for some; Starbucks coffee for some. Just maybe both for some... and then again, neither for both. Diversity is what keeps Greensboro interesting

Have a great Saturday and head out there and see all that you can see!

Next Chapter Bookstore Gift Shop to Celebrate Juneteenth at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market

Yesterday, we finally had the chance to stop at Ben's Boyz Restaurant in Friendly Center. Not only do they have delicious food, they also have a bookstore and gift shop at the entrance of the restaurant. Pictured above is Sherricka Carpenter Stanley who owns Next Chapter Bookstore. Her store represents over 70 authors and several local artists. The brick and mortar restaurant started as a food truck in the space where Starbucks is now located in Friendly. They opened the restaurant in May of 2021 and then on September 18, 2021, Sherricka launched the bookstore; fulfilling a goal she had on her vision board since 2011. Sherricka came to Greensboro to attend NC A&T where she majored in math education. She taught math for 25 years but has since left the classroom and works in her bookstore. Additionally, she is a published author with two of her own books for sale at Next Chapter. One is a rhyming book about family for little children. The other is a book about Kamala Harris.

If you want a good meal or a bookstore that has books and gifts for every occasion, head to 2711 Grandview Avenue in Friendly (up by the Juice Shop). Thursdays are their late night when there is an open mike when singers, musicians, poets, spoken word artists and paint live artists gather from 5:00- 8:00 pm to showcase their talent. We're not sure what their hours will be today, though, since we know Sherricka will be at the Juneteenth SOULebration..  SOULebration is happening at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market in Colfax from 11:00 am- 6:00 p.m.. The event is free and open to the public. 

Happy Juneteenth!

Memorial Day 2024

We took this photo on Memorial Day 2022 at the flag ceremony in Friendly Center. We didn't see confirmation that it would be held today, but to our knowledge, it is held every year at 8:00 am at the original part of Friendly Center and on the Friendly Avenue side. It is very solemn and wonderful for children to see and as a way to honor those who gave their life for the country. 

Other events listed today are theMemorial Day Ceremony at the Triad Park Field of Honor at 9652 West Market Street at 10:30 a.m. On a less solemn note, there will be wagon rides at Summerfield Farms at 3203 Pleasant Ridge Road from 1:00- 5:00 p.m. If you or a friend has lost someone serving the country, you are in our thoughts. Greensboro is a patriotic town, so we know there have been many.

Happy Monday.

Mother's Day 2024

Happy Mother's Day 2024. Yesterday, we were out looking for something in Greensboro to photograph for Mother's Day. When driving past Fresh Market on Lawndale, we saw this very creative sign that said "MOM" with metal letters and flowers. It was so beautiful, a standout even from the road. The display must have been effective, because so many people were inside purchasing flowers. According to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, about 75% of the cut flowers the USA, today, originate in Colombia and the industry has been growing since 1962.  Indeed, there were lots of bouquets of Colombian flowers flying out the door of Fresh Market- especially roses.

We have lots of wonderful florists in Greensboro, but by this morning, grocery stores are the best bet for getting cut flowers and home improvement stores for flowers to plant. Places like the Arboretum, Tanger Bicentennial Gardens, and Gateway Gardens are your best bet for taking photos with flowers. And then, there is always the above display that would be perfect for a photo with MOM.

Happy Sunday!

 

Eid Mubarak!

Today, Muslims around the world are celebrating the completion of Ramadan, the end of the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It has been a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims in Greensboro will be at the Greensboro Coliseum on Gate City Boulevard as well as at mosques praying and enjoying the fellowship with family and friends. Everyone will be wearing new outfits. Men will be sporting new haircuts and everyone's favorite foods and desserts will be shared. Eid-al-Fitr celebrates Allah's providing strength and endurance, and is a time of great charity.

The above photo features the hands of a group of Muslim students at the Middle College at UNCG. They have had henna applied to their hands, in most cases having done it themselves. Applying henna is a communal tradition that builds a sense of sisterhood and community. According to the US Religion Census (updated March 26, 2024), there are 130,661 Muslims in North Carolina, 11th in number by state. Guilford County Schools has a diverse student population and the district makes every effort to ensure all students have a positive experience. The Middle College at UNCG has a diverse student population. It is a high school that focuses on health and life sciences. These very hands will someday be our doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. May they enjoy this special day.

Eid Mubarak, Blessed Feast!

Guilford Park Presbyterian Church on Easter

The above photo is of the center courtyard of Guilford Park Presbyterian Church. It leads to the Columbarium. It reminded us so much of the Easter season: The three arches evoke the idea of trinity and of the three who died on the cross. The columbarium, is filled with sealed niches with stored funeral urns. Even in death, for Christians, there is the belief of an afterlife. The trees are starting to leaf out, another sign of the circle of life.

Guilford Park Presbyterian Church's first building was completed in 1947, and is an off-shoot of Buffalo Presbyterian Church. It is located in Kirkwood, on Fairfield, just off of Lawndale Drive. Guilford Park Presbyterian has a very robust history documented online. We are archivists at heart and cannot recommend the importance of documenting history of families, institutions, towns, etc. It is hard to retrieve information once the people with the stories and information are gone.  We hope the folks at Guilford Park Presbyterian have a Happy Easter. We're wondering if they will hold a service under the tree across the street, the one where the early members of the church first gathered to worship even before they were formally a congregation.

Happy Easter!

2306 Lawndale in Kirkwood is Ready for Easter!

Today would be a glorious day for an Easter egg hunt, as tomorrow is Easter. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to walk around the edge of Kirkwood on Lawndale near Cornwalis. This section  of the neighborhood has such a unique personality- a little bit hip and a little bit hippy. There is one of Kirkwood's two remaining Lustron homes.*  There are owners with vintage cars parked on the street, there is a house with an inflated unicorn, there is the palm reader. The above lawn at 2306 Lawndale is  decorated for Easter with two dogs guarding the pot. 

As we zip by this cluster of homes on Lawndale by car, we don't see it as a neighborhood. However, when we walked it this past week, we started seeing all of the things that make it a neighborhood. We were greeted by Great Danes guarding their yard, we noticed lots of storage sheds, we saw flowers and trees starting to bloom. There were people at Guilford Presbyterian Church getting ready for Easter. We looked up and a giant pink flamingo was staring at us. There were others walking. Someone was out for a run. We noticed a small park with a giant tree that reminds of the Angel Oak in Charleston, SC. Just like the Angel Oak, it is not permitted to climb the tree. Before we knew it, we were back at our car. Walking our many neighborhoods is a fun way to get to know Greensboro. May the Easter bunny deliver a basket of goodness to 2306 Lawndale, and to you too! Please stop back tomorrow.

Happy Saturday!

*See our post on the Lustron on Lawndale  from 15 years ago. 

The Battle of Guilford Courthouse

In Greensboro, this is the weekend of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, at least the reenactment. The original battle happened on March 15, 1781, but the above scene is what you will see if you head out this weekend- today or tomorrow. So head out to Country Park and see people reenacting, preparing food, talking about life if the 1800's, taking care of their horses, going down to the river to pray, and doing just about anything period-appropriate that you can imagine To be sure , they will not be using their cell phones, they will be present in the moment Greensboro is so lucky to have an event that attracts people from all over the country to come here and experience what life would have been like almost 250 years ago.

The weather should be nice today, between 50º- 70º and it shouldn't be raining. If you have never seen the reenactment battles, you owe it to yourself to go and do so. Remember, the red coats are the British. 

Happy Saturday!

Happy Valentines Day

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

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

Happy Valentine's Day! 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2024

 

Martin Luther King, Jr Day is a federal holiday. It was first observed in 1986, and since the year 2000 is officially observed in all 50 states. Some people say it as a day off, a three day weekend. Melvin "Skip" Alston, Chair of the GUILFORD COUNTY Board of Commissioners reminds us that, actually, it is a "day on", a day of service to community. Many people will be doing just that. From marching in the parade to volunteering at churches, community, and other local events. Today's MLK Day parade will be from 11:00 am- 12:00 noon downtown. The above photo is actually of Andrews High School marching at Greensboro's Holiday Parade on December 2nd. We're betting Andrews High School will also be at the parade today.

The MLK Breakfast will be at 7:30 am at the Khoury Convention Center. This year's theme is "Inspired to Dream." On Saturday, UNCG offered a program that introduced students to aspects of the local Greensboro community where they can serve, honoring Dr. King's legacy. On January 24th,  North Carolina A&T University, UNCG, Greensboro College, Guilford College, and Guilford Technical Community College, will collaborate on a birthday celebration (more information HERE). Greensboro has a legacy of leadership in the Civil Rights Movement that continues. We hope you are in a position to serve, to learn more about what has been done, and where work is still needed on the Civil Rights journey.

Epiphany 2024

For many, Christmas is long gone. For some, today is a big holiday, Epiphany or Three Kings Day, the day the Magi arrived in Bethlehem to visit Jesus. For children, it is the day the Wise Men also arrive to deliver gifts to those who have been good all year. Last night, children put out shoe boxes or shoes filled with hay for the camels. This morning, children awaken to gifts and merriment. According to Data USA, 24,900 people in Greensboro are Hispanic, which is almost 10% of the population. Many people in this demographic will be celebrating Three Kings Day. 

The above photo features the Nativity display at Centenary United Methodist Church, located at 2300 West Friendly Avenue. The vibrant colors really stand out on a sunny day late afternoon. Greensboro College also puts up a Nativity scene.

We hope you are safe and warm!

Happy Saturday!

Koi Pond and Holiday Decorations in Kernersville

Today, we are cheating a little bit on Greensboro Daily Photo and taking you to Kernersville, a community just over the Guilford line and into neighboring Forsyth County. Kernersville continues to grow and seems to be especially festive this year. Recently, we visited North Main Street, in the afternoon, in time to visit some of the shops and to see the koi pond in the center of downtown. As you can see from the above photo, the koi are large and very photogenic. The reflection of the Moravian stars in the water adds visual interest. If you are interested in planning an afternoon/evening in Kernersville, read on.

The lights at the Ciener Botanical Garden on Main Street are spectacular. Of course the decorations at Körner's Folly house are three floors of beautiful. Also, there is a big Christmas tree in town and Moravian stars along the way. Perhaps most spectacular of all are the  strands of lights in the trees on Main Street. They are called "Kernersville Lights" or "Blinkies." Roger Briles designed them with what he refers to as the concept that "less is more." While he created them around 2002 for himself and friends, they really started to gain popularity about 2012. A 36 foot strand of lights only has 14 white, blinking bulbs and they blink slowly. The effect is so subtle and delicate. And then there are the shops, which are bound to be having after Christmas specials. Musten and Crutchfield Food Market will be there for your specialty food needs. So, if you are looking for something to do between now and the first of the year, you can have a days worth of things to do in Kernersville without veering too far from Main Street. Do remember to call for hours and to see what will be open. Other than the ever faithful koi who are there year-round, other places will have different hours and availability.

Happy Wednesday!

Merry Christmas Eve 2023

This photo, taken last Sunday, is timeless and could have been taken fifty years ago. It features the Canticle Choir at the First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro. This choir is open to children in grades 3-12. Last Sunday, they performed as part of "A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols." Dr. John Alexander, Director of Music Ministry and Principal Organist, led the Canticle Choir as they sang Prepare the Way of the Lord, The Friendly Beasts, and Oh, Come, Little Children. 

If you want an opportunity to hear good music and to participate in a special Christmas Eve service, consider attending one of the three offered at the First Presbyterian Church at 617 North Elm Street. While the services will be special in their own right, the great acoustics and lovely design of the church add even more to the experience. Today's services are as follows: 10 am, Family Nativity Service; 5:30 pm, Candlelight and Communion Service; and 11:00 pm, Candlelight and Communion Service. Also, there will be one service on Christmas Day. See HERE for more information and to see what is available on live stream. Happy Christmas Eve, regardless of how you are spending it.

Happy Sunday!

Shopping at Friendly Center- View from the back of the line at Anthropologie

With 5 shopping days left before Christmas, retail in Greensboro seems to be steady. The parking lot at Friendly Center is busy and foot traffic seems brisk. The above photo was taken at Anthropologie- located in the "new" side of the shopping center. Pink and glittery seem to be popular with shoppers. The original Friendly Center opened in 1957 and it has done a good job over the last 66 years of staying relevant to shoppers. Part of the key is the variety of stores. There is everything from a bookstore to jewelry stores to a drug store, a post office, pet store, clothing stores, and more. 

In 2006, the new side of Friendly Center opened, bringing the largest Harris Teeter in all of North Carolina, an Apple Store, Anthropologie, and more.* Even if you don't NEED anything, it is fun to get out and be part of the crowd this time of year. And, there is the tradition of stopping and getting a photo with the waving Santa, and heading a couple blocks away to Sunset Hills to drive through the streets to see the decorations. If you drive through Sunset Hills, consider swinging by the Harris Teeter and getting some food to consider donating to the food bank collection site at the corner of Ridgeway and Madison.

Happy Wednesday!

 

*read the Wikipedia entry on Friendly Center HERE.

Happy Hanukkah 2023

Hanukkah is an 8-day Jewish Festival of Lights. It is celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers, and special fried foods. Hanukkah means "decdication" in Hebrew, because it celebrates the rededication of the Temple. The menorah is a candelabrum. The giant menorah in the above photo can be found at the corner of Hobbs and Jefferson near New Garden. Last night was day 2 of Hanukkah and people were at the temple for Shabbat or Sabbath services. The evening was crisp,  in the low 40s, a day of rest for Jews. The Jewish citizens of Greensboro have contributed significantly to the community. Their mitzvot (good deeds) are everywhere.

The original Temple Emanuel on Greene Street was built in 1924. The temple on Jefferson Road was completed in 2002. It is hard to believe it is already 21 years old.

We hope this holiday is a memorable one.

Happy Saturday!

Waving Santa Back at Friendly Center

Waving Santa returned to Friendly Center, as he always does, on Black Frida- on the Friendly Avenue side. He has been in place during the Christmas season since 1959. He arrived from Pennsylvania in 1959, two years after Friendly Center opened. This 13' tall piece of nostalgia is one of those things people expect to see in Greensboro over Christmas. Especially now that the Santa of Chapman Street is gone, Waving Santa is one of the symbols of Christmas in Greensboro people seek out year after year.

If you are out with holiday clothing this weekend, perhaps for the Candle Tea at the First Moravian Church or the Festival of Lights this Friday, or the Holiday Parade this Saturday, don your favorite holiday clothing and stop by for a photo. Do be careful, it is in a high vehicle traffic area. The traffic safety personnel are out directing traffic in Friendly Center, so be careful and respect their signals. It's beginning to feel a lot like December.

Happy Thursday- the last day of November!

 

Happy Thanksgiving 2023

Happy Thanksgiving! Today, we're featuring the "Helping Hands" sculpture by Gary Lee Price, in front of the Cone Health Cancer Center on Friendly Avenue. The sculpture was installed in recognition of volunteerism by the Wesley Long Hospital Auxiliary. For Thanksgiving, celebrated by so many, let us not forget those who are at work today, caring for our loved ones or seeing that needed services are available. Those of us who are off, let us be thankful.

As we enter the holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas, may we all remember to help each other. If you are able, please volunteer, either formally for an organization or informally for a friend or neighbor. If you need help, may someone be there with helping hands. Often, something as simple as a phone call, letter, or card makes all the difference. In Greensboro, Jewish volunteers fill in for Christian employees at the hospital on Christmas. This is such a lovely gesture. Today, we are thankful for those who give the gift of time. The sculpture also reminds us of the importance of touch. Here's to all of us touching the lives of others, in any way we can.

Happy Thanksgiving! We are grateful for you!

Northeast High School Marching Band

The above photo features the drum major and the Northeast High School marching band at the Veterans Day Parade this past Saturday. The band sounded great and put on quite a performance dancing and marching. Veterans and other parade attendees seemed to really enjoyed their performance. They were appreciated by parade goers. According to their website, the director of bands is Ms. Tyrissa Swilley. 

If you missed the Veterans Day Parade, your next big opportunity in Greensboro will be the Winter Holiday/Christmas Parade on December 2nd from 12 noon-2:00 pm. This parade has been a Greensboro tradition for almost 40 years. In addition to bands and floats, there will be some big balloons. The night before, on Friday, December 1st, the Festival of Lights will be held downtown. This is another big Greensboro tradition and time for making memories with family and friends. At the First Friday festival, performances start in Center City Park at 5:30 pm and the lighting of the tree happens promptly at 6:56 pm and the evening concludes at 9:00 pm. So, mark your calendars now, as this time of year starts getting really busy. In the meantime...

Happy Monday, a week and a half until Thanksgiving!

Veterans Day 2023

Yesterday was the Veterans Day Parade in downtown Greensboro. It was limited to North Elm, starting at about Lindsay Street and North Elm and turning east on Market Street. Attendance was light, but those who were in attendance were patriotic and enthusiastic Featured above is Robert Hare, Marine Corps League, Greensboro Detachment. According to their website, the Marine Corps League is the only congressionally charted US Marine Corps related veterans organization in the United States. It became an organization in 1937 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Guilford County Detachment 260 is based out of Jamestown and was founded in 1972. This chapter has members from every conflict the Marines have served in since World War II. 

If you missed yesterday's parade, High Point is having one today and the Field of Honor is always open. Because we like to post something spiritual on Sundays, we looked up the religious affiliation of U.S. military veterans. It appears that about 66% are Protestant, 23% Catholic.  Just under 4% are minority faith groups (including Jewish, Muslim, Orthodoxy,  Mormon, Buddhism, Shinto, Hindu, and Sikh. Just under 6% unknown.* If you want the statistics of Veterans religious affiliation by state, see here.**  Veterans Day is a more joyful celebration than Memorial Day as the latter remembers those who died serving our country. For all of our readers who are veterans, thank you for your service.

Happy Sunday!

 

*Free Liberty Institute

 

** https://www.data.va.gov/dataset/Veteran-Religious-Affiliation-by-State/mcjn-bnqy

Howl-O-Ween 2023

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

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

Happy Monday!

Remembering the Saints

Christ Lutheran Church on Lawndale is having a "Remembering the Saints" event. As you drive by, on the southeast corner of Lawndale Drive and Pisgah Church Road, you see all of these crosses. They represent "Saints" from the history of the church. Wednesday, November is "All Saints Day". There is also a cross for Martin Luther, one for fallen fire fighters and fallen police. We don't know how long it will remain up, but, if you get a chance, please drive by. It is an impressive sight. Christ Lutheran opened 18 March 1959, at a time when this location would have seemed a far piece from downtown Greensboro. This display must have taken a long time to prepare. Someone worked really hard to keep the rows straight!

Happy Sunday!

Pumpkin Time in Greensboro

It is pumpkin time in Greensboro. As a matter of fact, they are selling quickly. Most youth organizations at churches are manning pumpkin patches on the front lawn. They are such an iconic sign of fall, and Halloween for those who celebrate. Pumpkins, hay rides, corn maizes, pumpkin spice everything, and spooky woods venues are all throughout the county this time of year.  The above photo was taken at the Fresh Market on Lawndale, after a busy weekend of selling pumpkins. In addition to grocery stores and the pumpkin patch fundraisers, you can find the at Rudd Farm, Garden Valley Farmers Market, McLaurin Farms, Summerfield Farms, to name a few.

Another popular event this time of year is at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro (less than an hour away).  They are hosting "Boo at the Zoo" the next two weekends (see HERE). The Greensboro Science Center will show you "scary" animals, like giant,  hissing cockroaches, and other animals like scorpions that glow under UV light. If you haven't been to the zoo or the science center, this is a great time to go. You won't be disappointed. You also won't be disappointed if you head to Fresh Market, or to one of the church pumpkin patches- especially if you turn the selection into some kind of annual tradition. That reminds us, we still need to get ours!

Happy Monday!

Labor Day Means BBQ Time in Greensboro

Those of us who are staying in town for the weekend are likely planning a picnic with barbecue. The above photo features a makeshift barbecue pit near Lewiston Road in Northeast Greensboro. The hardwood had burned to coals, perfect for cooking which will likely take up to 12 hours. The smell of smoldering hardwood is distinctive and to us, evokes memories of fall. We were struck by the simplicity of this pit, the use of cinder blocks and bricks assembled in a U shape to contain the heat. Smoking meat this way in North Carolina dates back to before Europeans arrived. You don't need a fancy grill to prepare great meat. 

In Greensboro, once a person decides what method they will use to  cook Labor Day barbecue, a decision needs to be made about what kind of sauce to use. There is the "down east" vinegar barbecue and the "out west" Lexington style where ketchup is mixed in with vinegar.  Do you have a preference. While they will be closed today, if you are looking for barbecue in a restaurant in Greensboro, Stamey's Barbecue, Country Barbecue, and Bernie's Bar-B-Que are great local options. Smithfield's Chicken 'N-Bar-B-Q, Mac's Speed Shop, and Hickory Tree Turkey BBQ are also great options. If you are local, likely, your decision is already made about who serves the best barbecue. We hope you have a great Labor Day, regardless of what you end up eating. In preparing this post, we found a couple of good sites, if case you are interested and have a little extra time today: North Carolina Barbecue: East vs West and Labor Day in North Carolina. Did you know Labor Day wasn't broadly adopted in North Carolina until it became a federal holiday? Also, there used to be Labor Day Parades, even fireworks!

Happy Monday!

UPDATE: We just drove by Stamey's and they are open!!!

(Should we swing back around when the barbecue is ready? This has got to be the best slow-cooked meat in town!).

 

Autumn Will Be Here Before We Know It!

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

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

Happy Monday!

Uncle Sam on South Elm Street

Uncle Sam is alive and well on South Elm Street. This photo was taken at the Fun Fourth Festival, but we wanted to make sure it got posted.  Uncle Sam was gregarious and did a great job engaging with the crowd. Downtown is so much fun when there are people out and about. There is so much to do this weekend. We hope you are taking advantage of all the options. There is an Eastern Music Festival event at 4pm today in Dana Auditorium on the Guilford College Campus. MUSEP tomorrow evening is at Gateway Gardens on East Gate City Boulevard. It is the 44th season of this Greensboro Tradition. See Details HERE. 

Have a Happy Saturday!

Downtown Greensboro: First Friday July 2023

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

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

Happy Friday!

 

Greensboro Grasshoppers: Stars and Stripes Spectacular

The resolution isn't the highest on this photo, but it captures the spirit and excitement last night at First National Bank Field. The Greensboro Grasshoppers played to a sold out crowd. Their opponents, Aberdeen (MD), are a minor league team for the Baltimore Orioles and apparently one of the players is someone who is getting a lot of publicity. Fortunately for Greensboro, the Grasshoppers won 8-5 and immediately after the game, fireworks began. If you didn't get to attend last night, HERE is a schedule. You have several more opportunities this week and each night has a special theme.

Yesterday was so full of community events in Greensboro. We got around to as many events as we could and will share more photos of the Fourth throughout the week. From the Apple Pie Bicycle Ride to the  Freedom Run, to the Fun Fourth Festival downtown, to Kirkwood's  neighborhood parade, to the grand finale downtown with the fireworks at the baseball stadium, indeed, there was plenty to do. Hopefully, you were able to participate in something and even found time to have a picnic. Thinking of food,  since it's July, Cook-Out is back with their watermelon milkshakes. Oh, and City Meet for Greensboro's Community Swim Association starts tomorrow, and Friday is First Friday! July in Greensboro is always so special. Hope to see you out and about.

Happy Wednesday!

Happy July 4th, 2023

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

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

Happy Tuesday, Happy Fourth of July!

The Unbridled Joy of a Child

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

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

Happy Friday... preparing for takeoff!

Happy Juneteenth 2023

Happy Juneteenth. It officially became a holiday in 2021. June 19, 1865 was the day that over a quarter of a million enslaved black people in Texas were freed by executive order. Until that date, there were Americans who were not free. To celebrate, Greensboro has had several events already and the festivities will continue today. As examples, there will be a Juneteenth celebration in Barber Park, a celebration at Sternberger Center at 712 Summit Avenue, and a SOULebration at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market at 2914 Sandy Ridge Road. Today, The International Civil Rights Museum on Elm Street (photographed above) will offer genealogy research as well as a screening of the film, "The Autobiography of Jane Pittman." See here to learn more.

We hope you find some way to celebrate today and that you find a way to make the holiday even more meaningful and that you enjoy your three day weekend.

Happy Monday!

Happy Easter 2023

Happy Easter! The above photo was taken at Morehead United Methodist Church on Horse Pen Creek Road. It was taken on Good Friday, a day in Greensboro that was extremely gloomy and overcast. For Christians, the day, overcast weather would seem appropriate, given Friday was the day Christ was crucified. The fact that it was crucifixion day is the reason the cloth, draped on the cross, is black. As a liturgical color, black reminds us to pray for the soul of the departed*. Today, the cloth will be white. White is used on Christmas and Easter, symbolizing the birth and resurrection of Christ. 

Morehead Church has been working hard to prepare for Easter. Look at how perfect that turf is, and that new seating area is so inviting. The weather today is predicted to be sunny all day, which should make for an uplifting sense of joy and hope whether one is at church, at home, or somewhere in between. 

Happy Easter!

*more information about liturgical colors.

Palm Sunday, Minerva, and Mercy Hill

Today is Palm Sunday; for Christians, the day Christ entered into Jerusalem. It is the first day of Holy Week. So why does the above photo feature the Minerva Statue on the campus * of UNCG? Well, last week, we were walking across campus and noticed the apples are back. As tradition has it, since Minerva is the goddess of wisdom, justice, law, and victory, college students leave an apple, with one bite out,  at her base to bring them luck during exams. However, curiously, we noticed someone was placing Easter eggs at the base, too. We had to investigate.

As it turns out, college students (a few, off on the right edge of the photo, you can see a couple of them) were placing the plastic eggs in highly visible places. Inside was a piece of candy and a note advertising a church service geared towards college students. a service and a late night party at Mercy Hill Church, the northwest campus at 5330 Edgefield Road.  Stuffed in with a wrapped piece of candy, the message read, "Join us as we celebrate Easter with other college students across the Triad! We would love to see you there." The students felt like the Easter egg hunt would be more effective than just having an informational table. Let's hope the effort worked for them and that the students who are looking for Christian fellowship found their way to Mercy Hill. Mercy Hill has 5 campuses in Guilford County and services all this week, including a "Walk through" experience on Good Friday. See their schedule of events for the week HERE. There will be something to do almost every day this week. We're wondering how the students hiding the eggs in plain sight became affiliated with Mercy Hill and whether or not new students attended this week. 

Have a great week, and, if you are looking for a spiritual connection, this is a good week to find it.

Happy Palm Sunday!

* watch this short Youtube video about the Minerva statue. See HERE for the story of the sculptor of the Minerva statue, James Barnhill. 

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!