Greensboro Daily Photo

Glenwood Barrber Shop

In preparing this post for today and researching this "barrber" shop, we realized that we actually featured it seven years ago. It is located in the Glenwood neighborhood at 1106 Glenwood Avenue. The owner is William L Byers, Jr. and, in true barber fashion, he cuts, styles, shaves, and provides facial treatments.While the above discounted prices haven't changed, the facade has changed tremendously (see HERE)! How wonderful that the shop is still in business and that they are able to offer discounts to seniors, children, and college students.

The more things change in Greensboro, the nicer it is that some things stay the same. There are stylists, salons, and old-school, traditionally for men/by men barber shops. The above is, indeed, a barber shop. Glenwood Barrber Shop is celebrating its 15th year this year. To be sure, they've seen some changes in their neighborhood- hinting at gentrification. The barber shop  open today at 9:00 am if you need a haircut. They have a Facebook page if you want to get to know the barbers and their humor. Here's to the next 15 years fellows

Happy Wednesday!

Woodworker Ken Collins

Some houses absolutely reflect the personalities of the owner. Such is the case of this artist at 832 Glenwood Avenue in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. Ken Collins has his "shingle" displayed at his driveway announcing that he is a woodworker. However, Ken is so much more.  As you can see from the art around the yard, Ken is quite the metalworker and upcycler, too. It is hard to see in the photo, but the metal fan blade flowers have glass telephone insulators as their centers.

Ken's studio is behind his house and it seems every few years when we drive by the artwork has changed. Also, we have seen his work available at ReAligned Antique Store at 115 East Lewis Street, downtown. We don't really know him personally, but years ago, Ken repaired and rewired a lamp for us and did a fabulous job. It is so meaningful to meet local, creative people. We actually featured him in person eight years ago, and hope to have a chance to see more of his artwork.

If you look at your home, what does it say about your? We're always on the lookout for great people and places to feature. Let us know.

Happy Thursday (the new Friday)!

Join Junior League of Greensboro

The Junior League of Greensboro (JLG) has been promoting volunteerism and the leadership potential of women in Greensboro for 95 years. According to their website, the JLG was founded on May 26, 1926 when Miss Kathleen Price (later Mrs. Joseph M. Bryan) organized the Junior Charity League with some book club friends and other select young women. In the early years of JLG, the organization worked closely with UNCG which was, at that time, a women's college.*  Over the years, JLG has done so much fundraising to help worthy projects of Greensboro. For example, in the 1970s, they raised money to help restore Blandwood Mansion. Over the years, they have been running the Bargain Box, a thrift store that raises money for their different causes.

The above photo was taken of a lawn of Junior League members who live in the Kirkwood neighborhood of Greensboro. It was taken on Independence Drive during the Fourth of July Festival last week. What a great way to advertise for your organization- with yard signs. Even if you don't live in Greensboro, you may know about Junior League, as there are over 295 Junior Leagues in four countries. Their headquarters is located at 3101 West Friendly Avenue, across from Friendly Center (see HERE).

 

* read the organizations timeline, HERE.

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

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

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

Happy Thursday!

Happy July 4th, 2023

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

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

Happy Tuesday, Happy Fourth of July!

Latham Park: Summer Fun

Yesterday was sunny with a high of 86º and humidity was at 65% and there wasn't any wind. Those weather conditions make it feel more like summer. The above photo was taken at the skate park at Latham Park, off of Wendover Avenue. It shows a skater heading back into the bowl to finish up a move as another skater watches. The skate ramps were busy yesterday, as was all of Latham Park. People were walking, riding their bikes, playing with their dogs, and playing tennis. All of the tennis courts were full. The baseball field, however, was quiet.  It is so nice seeing people using our public spaces. Latham Park was named for James E Latham who was a cotton importer and exporter in Greensboro. He and his wife lived in Greensboro going from Fisher Park, to Irving Park, and back to Fisher Park. The Lathams donated 70 acres along Buffalo Creek which is where the park is today (read Jim Schlosser's article HERE). Wendover, splits the park. 

Parks bring people together and do wonders for physical and mental health. Greensboro's Parks and Recreation Department is wonderful. Our cities parks and programs help people make memories right here in the community.  Are you using them? We hope so. 

Happy Thursday!

On Suburban Cycling, Revolution Mill, and Greensboro's Population Growth

Last night's group bike ride, the one that starts and finishes at Cycles D'Oro, took the group to Revolution Mill at Yanceyville Street. The mill opened in 1898 by Moses and Caesar Cone and is quite an impressive east Greensboro landmark. It was also a good, off-road stopping point for the cyclists, many of whom are novice riders. The mill is quite successfully being repurposed as a mixed-use complex. As the cyclists took a water break, they got briefed about the second half of the 10 mile ride. One of the ride facilitators pointed out the water tower across from the mill, up on Textile Drive. He informed us that the water tower is on one of the highest elevations in that neighborhood, and we needed to get our bike in the lowest gear BEFORE heading up that hill.

Along the way, one of the riders started talking about the population of Greensboro and how it increased in the 1960s. That prompted us to look that up as soon as we got home. According to the Wikipedia timeline of Greensboro (see HERE), Greensboro's population was 74,389 in 1950. By 1960, it was 119, 574. That is an increase of over 45,000 people, about 60%. By 1970, Greensboro's population was 144,076, an increase of 25,000 or about 21%. Many of the Greensboro's houses, including the ones on the ever-steep Textile Drive, were built in the 1960s. Some of us decided to return to look around when we weren't concentrating on shifting gears and powering through a very tough hill. Oh the great thoughts being around others evokes.

Happy Wednesday!

Hens of Glenwood

Greensboro's neighborhoods have such distinct personalities. Glenwood is an urban neighborhood known for its diversity; a very active neighborhood association; and great location close to downtown, UNCG, the Coliseum, and more! It has been a neighborhood since the early 20th century. Every time we drive through, we see something that puts a smile on our face. We see children playing in the parks; we get good food at the Thursday market and so much more. The other day, we were visiting a friend and saw a couple of the Hens of Glenwood. This is the ultimate in free range chickens. We're wondering where they lay their eggs. 

In the background, you can see a couple of the houses, so typical in Glenwood. Likely, they are two bedroom, one bathroom homes. If a small house is enough for you, Glenwood is perfect. They even have their own public library and a community center.

If you want to know more about Glenwood, read what the Greater Glenwood Neighborhood Association has to say.

Dunleath Porchfest 2023

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

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

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

Happy Saturday!

Lindley Park Baptist

As we biked past Lindley Park Baptist Church the other day, we did a double take. As you can see, the marquee says, "AMAZING GRACE 1048- 2023." Looking around, we saw the zoning notice for a public hearing on June 20th, 2023 at 5:30 pm. The sign didn't say where the hearing would be held. It is case # PL(Z) 23-26 and the contact number is Olivia Byrd at 336-373-2986. If our friends' internet sleuthing is correct, the church, the fellowship hall, and the house beside it may become Kellin Foundation, a local non-profit. According to their website, they are a "trauma-informed behavioral health service." 

Lindley Park Baptist, located at the corner of Walker Avenue and Holden Road, has been a church since 1948, and the cornerstone on the above building dates the sanctuary as being erected in 1972. As of a News & Record article from 2001 (updated 2015) the church had about 200 members. We will follow the possible conversion from church to its new use with great interest. Recently, a church at the corner of Spring Garden Street and Englewood Street got converted from a church to student housing (Spring Garden Station) and there is no evidence that it was formerly a church. Greensboro is known for its many churches; hopefully, the members of Lindley Park Baptist have found a new spiritual home.

Happy Sunday!

Larger Than Life

 

Yesterday, we featured poppies in a garden for National Poppy Day. Today, we give you a close up (macro) view of one of the poppies in the photo. The day we took the photo last week was overcast and windy in Greensboro, and several of the photos were blurry. We finally got a photo that shows you the intricacies of the inside of a poppy. Macro photography is about showcasing things larger than they actually are in real life. See HERE if you want to learn about the anatomy of a poppy.

Not only is this view "larger than life", but so is the backstory. Remember that through our friend, the current owner of the house and this garden, Kit Rodenbough, we learned that another friend, Julie Dameron formerly owned this house and is actually the one who planted this garden. This gives Kit the very important role of being the keeper of the garden. Well, to continue this great story, we learned that yesterday's post prompted a visit between Kit and Julie. Julie got to go see her garden again and left the visit so thrilled, hearing how much Kit loves the house AND the garden. The only thing that would have made this close up slice of life better would have been getting a photo of the two women together. Maybe that can be arranged at a later date. Also, just since yesterday,  we've had a few friends in Greensboro alerting us of their poppies we can photograph for next year!

If you have a cell phone, use the camera to take a macro photo of something. Seeing something up close, as opposed to from a distance, yields very interesting results. Share your macro photo with friends! Tell them you were inspired by Greensboro Daily Photo! With six degrees of separation, we're betting word will get back to us.

Happy Saturday!

Art & Supply Pop Up

Our friend and artist, Cassandra Liuzzo, is featured today at her pop up art sale at the corner of Grove Street and Lexington in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. Cassandra had Shelf Life Art & Supply Co. in Irving Park for several years. After closing that store, she now sells art at Design Archives in downtown Greensboro. At her studio in Glenwood, she sells art and craft supplies, as well as gives private and group art lessons. Her pop up sales will continue throughout the summer on the same day as the Glenwood Market. Cassandra's hours are a little earlier, 4:00 pm- 6:00 pm on Thursdays. If you are at the Glenwood Market, just follow the path to from the market to the front of the church and you will see her pop up. 

Cassandra, a Grimsley High School graduate, is a talented artist herself. She had a Greensboro Residency for Original Works (GROW) downtown in 2021. Not only is she accomplished at drawing and painting, she has beautiful journals and is quite a fiber artist. It will be interesting to follow her career and see the direction her talent will take her. You can find her website on Facebook (Shelf Life Art & Supply Co.) and connect with her at shelflifeart on Instagram. If you get a chance, stop by Cassandra's pop up next week. Not only will you have the opportunity for a good conversation, you will find some great supplies at a reasonable price. Thank you Cassandra for always having a great smile and welcoming spirit.

Happy Friday, dear readers. 

719 Fifth Avenue in the Dunleath Neighborhood

The Dunleath neighborhood in east Greensboro is very walkable. The above photo was taken this past Saturday when there was a Kentucky Derby party in the neighborhood as well as multiple yard sales. There were almost as many free items as items for sale. The weather was sunny, but crisp and it was a perfect day to walk around and meet neighbors.  The above photo, at 719 Fifth Avenue was not having a sale, but they were getting a fresh paint job by "Absolute Quality Painting" and it was looking beautiful. This Dutch colonial house was built in 1910 and currently sits on 1/4 acre. It last sold in 2022 and the neighbors are quite likely getting ready for Porchfest. On Saturday, June 10th, Dunleath will have porches filled with musicians from 11 am- 6pm. As stated on their website, neighbors offer their porches and musicians offer their talents. Music sets last about 45 minutes and people stroll from porch to porch enjoying great music. Maps are printed to distribute to guests. Porchfest began in 2017 and has continued to grow every year.  This is another example of a grassroots event that makes Greensboro such a special place to live.

Happy Wednesday!

The People's Market In Glenwood

The People's Market in Glenwood at 1417 Glenwood Avenue opened for the season last Thursday. It bills itself as a handmade, homemade, homegrown market. For almost ten years, the People's Market has provided platforms for start-up growers, bakers, and makers to sell their products* If you want a good, home cooked meal, a chance to double your SNAP (food stamp benefits), an opportunity to interact with neighbors, this is a great place to go. As you can see, there is plenty of open space and you can bring a blanket and sit a while. There is also an opportunity to be a vendor, if you are interested in selling food, produce, or a craft.

By the time we arrived last week (near the end), the market has slowed down and some things had sold out. It was fun seeing everyone come together as community. Upon leaving the market, we always swing by Lexington Avenue where there is a Free Little Library and we always find a book that we want to read. The owner of the library is Liz. Rest assured she is around the corner at the market catching up with friends. 

Have a great Thursday, regardless of what you decide to do!

 

*reference and more information.

A Lovely Day in Steelman Park

Yesterday was a glorious day to explore Greensboro's parks. We walked to one in the Glenwood neighborhood. Located between Gregory Street and Highland Avenue, Steelman Park is a 3 1/2 acre facility that is open year-round for the community and hosts a summer playground program. There is a stream on the south end of the park, a basketball court, fitness equipment and more. Yesterday, there were children exploring in the park laughing, calling out to their dad, and playing in an unencumbered way as only children can. This park is named for  Ruth A Steelman, a retired educator, teacher and principal at McIver School who died in 1990 at the age of 77.  Miss Steelman was also a professor at High Point College and a member of many professional and civic organizations.

In the front end of the photo, you see raised beds at the park. They are part of the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Family Gardening Program. Families are invited to create an edible garden with their children. The 8-week gardening program will have weekly hands-on instruction and will provide seeds, tools, and more. Participating families must have children between the ages of 4 and 18 years.*  Fencing helps keep animals out and a lock on the gate helps keep people from helping themselves to produce.  Let's hope it is a good year for produce and that children have plenty of time to explore Steelman Park- and all the other parks in the City of Greensboro.  We're betting Ms. Steelman would be proud!

Happy Friday! 

• register at go.ncsu.edu/family-gardening. or call Julie Hale at Parks and Recreation at 336-373-4549.

Lady Banks Roses in Full Bloom!

Lady Banks roses are a nearly thornless rose, producing either white or yellow blooms. A native to China, the Lady Banks first arrived in the west in the early 1800s. They are a climbing rose, growing like a vine. As you can see above, the flowers grow in clusters. The Lady Banks roses in the above photo were a gift from Jane Armfield to Jane Mitchell's mother. Jane, a Sunset Hills resident, says they were planted between 40- 50 years ago. While they are more readily available now, there was a time when these roses were hard to get. People said you had to practically inherit one- or get a cutting. Thirteen years ago, someone did ask for a cutting of this one. We would love to see that plant today. These roses are at peak bloom now, their one time for the year,  and their bloom time will depend on the weather over the next week. 

Are there any Lady Banks roses in your neighborhood? We'd love to hear about it. It would be nice to have one. We try to feature these roses every year. The last time we did was 2021, on April 9th. Perhaps they are a little early this year.

Happy Tuesday!

Spring Has Spring on Oak Street

Yesterday, we were out along Oak Street in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. We noticed the bulbs planned at the house on the corner of Oak and McCormick. The flowers are healthy, having  weathered the recent cold weather. Blooming flowers are such a part of Greensboro landscapes in spring. 

The house in the background is a 2 bedroom 1 bath house built in 1915. This 108 year old house on the corner lot has so much yesteryear charm. The porch is inviting, the windows look like the original, and the bulbs are a simple row that look like they could have been there since the beginning. Remember if you get any pots of bulbs you can plant them and keep enjoying their beauty, year after year. This cooler weather we have had in Greensboro is actually good for bulbs. According to Dutch Grown, tulips will last for 1-2 weeks if the weather is between 45-55 degrees. However, if the weather is warmer, they will only last for a few days. We'll stop back and have a look after Friday, when the temperature is expected to be in the 80s. In the meantime, if you want to see them at peak, head over today!

Happy Thursday!

College Hill Sundries

College Hill Sundries is located at 900 Spring Garden Street at South Mendenhall. Most people know the corner establishment from the iconic Pepsi sign painted on the South Mendenhall side. See our post from 2009 (HERE- 14 years ago!!!), and you will see the Pepsi sign. We like this photo from yesterday because it shows what a dynamic place this neighborhood bar is. First, you see the "WILD FREE" hand-painted sign on the wooden, corner door. We believe that that is from the artists' pop up held there yesterday. On the left, you see one of the artists showing his work. Above his head, you see the "bike lane" sign, an important features for a college neighborhood. On the right, is a masseuse giving a massage at the special event. Finally, the sun was very bright yesterday and formed an arc over the middle of the photo. To the very right, you can see someone sitting at the bar. The place was hopping. From patrons to bartenders to vendors, everyone seemed in a cheerful mood. 

It took a little internet sleuthing and a some math to figure out when College Hill Sundries opened as a bar. In a News & Record article from 12/12/2001, we saw a reference to the King family who turned the location from a drugstore to a bar "19 years ago", which, since the article was written in 2001, would mean the bar opened in 1982, making it 41 years old this December! College Hill Sundries had its years as a dive bar with bathrooms that were barely tolerable. As explained in the 2001 article and verified by us yesterday, the bathrooms have been upgraded and  the beer selections modernized. From that same era (2001), the magazine "Men's Journal" listed College Hill  as one of the 50 best bars in America. The only bar in North Carolina to receive recognition in the publication. Oh the things one can happen upon, merely driving around town. 

We hope to see an add for the next pop up. If you are a vendor, you may want to inquire within to see about getting a spot.

Happy Monday!

Percy Street Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG)

The Percy Street Free Little Art Gallery* is part of an initiative similar to the Little Free Library initiative.  The owner keeps it stocked with delightful pieces of art, and even sometimes jewelry. You are always free to take a piece or art. This gallery box is located to the Greensboro Curb Market on Yanceyville Street and we stop by for a look every time we go to the farmers market. We keep hoping to meet (and interview) the owners, but never see them out when driving by. We also want to honor their privacy and not go banging on their door at some early hour on a Saturday! The last time we were there, we picked up an ink drawing of a praying mantis. There were some rainbow earrings that were delightful, but we always limit ourselves to just one!

Here is a photo of the inside of the gallery from the day we visited in March 2022. We had a request by local artist, Bobby Craddock to feature the exterior of the box. We love requests and try to honor them, as time permits. Thanks to Bobby, we snapped this photo which, from this angle, really accentuates the little slice-of-pie shaped land that hosts the gallery. Bobby started a group 50+ Artists and Makers, and the members of that group will love to see this box. It would be wonderful to have more of them in the area. Whereas Greensboro Daily Photo inspires to keep showcasing and learning more about our community, a FLAG inspires you to make art every day! Stop by 717 Percy Street next time you are in the area and have a look for yourself. We didn't measure, but are guessing the box is 2' x 1'. 

Happy Friday! 

 

 

*Here is the home page to the Free Little Art Gallery, in case you want to start one or find one near you.

1633 Willomore Street

The day we were in Glenwood to see the Tiny Home property, we noticed this property, also on Willomore. It was built in 1901 and doesn't appear to have been sold since 1990, when it sold for $40,000. It is one of those homes that remind one of yesteryear. Time stands still on this 1/3 of an acre. The two bedroom, one bathroom house looks like it has been added on to, on the left. 

The original log home and chinking has been going strong for over 120 years. Of course we have as many questions as answers. We wonder how many owners it has had, what the inside looks like, what changes the owners have seen in the neighborhood over the years. What they love most about it- on and on. Perhaps we should call on them some day, just like people used to do back when it was built. We could knock and see if we could chat on the porch for a spell. Taking a plate of warm cookies might do the trick. 

What will you be doing this weekend?  Happy Friday!

 

Walkers on Walker in front of Walkers

Yesterday afternoon, the weather was lovely in Greensboro. It felt like a sunny spring day.The above photo was taken on Walker Avenue across the street from Walkers Bar. So, you can say it is a photo of walkers on Walker in front of Walkers. The Lindley Park area is so lively, especially after about 4:00 pm and on the weekend. The corner of Walker and Elam has changed significantly over the decades; however it has always been been dynamic. While the A&P and the drugstore are gone, Bestway is a thriving grocery store and suds and duds has long since replaced the drug store.*

Something about this photo feels like it should be set to music; perhaps something percussive like Henry Mancini's Pink Panther.

Have a great Saturday!

*if you can access the News and Record online, this 2015 article shares a lot about this area.

On North Battleground and Around the City

The above photo was taken on North Battleground, near British Woods, on a day that had been rainy, but then the sun came out. Those puffy white clouds look glorious against the blue sky and the winter trees. It shows you that there are still patches of Battleground with trees. However, the profile of this section is about to change; as it is near where the High Ground Project will be build, but maybe we can keep some of the greenery. This is very close to where the urban loop I-840 crosses Battleground. The signage has been changed to I-840 already now that the highway is completely open. It makes getting to Kernersville, Winston, McLeansville and Burlington much easier. Actually, it makes getting in to south Greensboro easier too. It will be interesting to see if that traffic is a little lighter now on the south side of town.

We need to get out an photograph this area more. The area between Westridge and I-840 in now six lanes wide. Change is everywhere. There is construction across from Applebee's. Also, for those of you who remember Laddies and Dukes Irish Pub, something is under construction in that area. It is so hard to remember what used to be on a lot, once something new is built. Please take pictures!

We hope you are getting ready for the weekend and we're betting a lot of you are planning urban loop rides. It would be informative, too, to drive from North Battleground at the urban loop through town to the south side to see just how much has changed. Take a senior citizen with your to hear the "I remember when" stories.

Honk if you love exploring. Happy Thursday!

Ebenezer Baptist in the Yarn Bombed Yard

The Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro is so full of creative people. If you live in Glenwood, likely, you have seen the Ebenezer Baptist Church bus parked in the yard that is yarn bombed in memory of Joseph. Joseph died on December 12, 2012 and thirteen years later, the yarn bombing continues to grow. This tree trunk in the photo is one of many trees in the yard filled with color. The day we were there, birds and squirrels were romping around on the yarn- probably helping keep it bug free. 

Ebenezer Baptist is located at 2700 West Vandalia Road. In 14 years of Sundays with spiritual posts on Greensboro Daily Photo (which would be over 700) , it appears we haven't featured Ebenezer Baptist yet! Oh well, that is the kind of carrot dangling that keeps us traipsing Greensboro, ever in search of new people and places. According to their website, the church is committed to helping people experience a life connected to Christ. They believe in evangelism, fellowship, and Christian family relationships. If you are interested, they have 8:45 am and 10:45 am in-person services. Their 10:00 am service is online. 

The next time we are at the corner of Hertford and Lexington in Glenwood, especially if we see someone in the yard, we're going to stop by and learn about Joseph and his relationship to the people in the house. We will also ask if the driver of the Ebenezer bus is the person yarn bombing. Well, we hope you have a happy Sunday and that you have people in your life who love you as much as this resident loved Joseph. The whole scene reminded us of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"-  Glenwood style.

Rainbow Series: Yellow House in Glenwood

Today's yellow house with the bright red roof is located at 1223 Gregory Street in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. It was built in 1938 and hasn't sold since 2013. It looks like whoever has owned it for the last ten years has really kept it up; probably even upgraded it. Between the red roof and bright blue sky, this yellow house really pops. As we drove around Greensboro this past weekend in search of houses for our "rainbow" house series, we started to think we could shoot the whole series in Glenwood. Green, blue, and yellow houses are pretty easy to find. Red, orange, and purple houses are a little harder. If you have a lead about houses in those three colors in Greensboro, please let us know.

Glenwood is a diverse neighborhood, said to be the most diverse in all of North Carolina. The more we look at these two bedroom, one bathroom homes, so typical of Glenwood, the more appealing we find them. If you are trying to move closer to town, you can't beat the location of this neighborhood.

Happy Tuesday!

Fern + Amelia and Elan Design Source

Today's photo features two businesses at 1615 West Friendly Avenue, Fern + Amelia and Elan Design Source. Both are owned and operated by Angie Besecker. Angie grew up in Greensboro, graduating from Ragsdale High School and UNCG. She is a talented designer who sells handmade customizable fabric and makes furniture in-house. She is conscious of reducing her store's carbon footprint and sources as much as possible in North Carolina. On the homewares/antiques side of the store (Fern + Amelia), she sells items that are fair trade and ethically sourced. At UNCG, she earned a degree in business, focusing on marketing; however, her love of design moved her in the direction of making furniture in-house, fitting the precise needs of the client and their living space. 

These businesses on West Friendly has been open for about 18 months. They are located is in the building next to Bandito Burrito, in a spot where Madison Avenue once extended, before Josephine Boyd Street was constructed-  ending Madison Avenue at Smyres Place. Angie pointed out some of the new businesses around hers. A small boutique, Tribe Thrift, will be opening soon. Directly across the street is Wylie's Gourmet Cafe and Desserts. Angie recommends their pimento cheese sandwiches. She is so encouraged about the growth in the area and mentioned there is talk of branding the area, from 1618 West Seafood Grill to the plaza where her store is located, as West End. If you know Winston-Salem's West End, you will get a feel for what is emerging in this part of town. It is encouraging to see new businesses there and inspiring to talk to an entrepreneur like Angie. 

Happy Wednesday!

Lovely Green Home at 806 Fairmont Street

The Westerwood subdivision of Greensboro dates to 1919. This 2-story, green beauty, built in 1925, is located at 806 Fairmont Street. This vibrant house is inspiring us feature a Greensboro home in each of the the rainbow colors. While not in rainbow order, the first up is GREEN. This 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home recently sold in 2020. The home was renovated and painted before it sold, and it almost sparkles in the sunlight. The yard is rather small, but well cared for; look at that mortarless, dry stone wall and inviting front porch.  This home is characteristic of Westerwood: Curb appeal, curb appeal, curb appea

Westerwood is a neighborhood conducive to walking  and is known for its mature trees.  Westerwood residents are community-minded.  Another special feature of the neighborhood is the they have maintained records regarding its history. In October, Westerwood holds an art walk, Art & Sole,  where artists open their studios or porches to people. COVID cancelled it for a while. Let's hope the event is back up and running this fall. There are so many artists in Westerwood!

Happy Tuesday! Please recommend a red, orange, yellow, blue, or purple house for us to photograph. 

Sunset Hills and the Stunning Display of Christmas Lights

Once again, the Sunset Hills neighborhood is aglow under the chicken-wire-covered balls of Christmas lights. The lights are literally shot and hoisted tens of feet into the air. They are very hard to photograph and the warmth of the colorful glow, felt as you walk through the streets, cannot be replicated in a photo. However, the above photo gives you an idea of how they look. Also, you can see an example of the many people who walk the neighborhood on any given night to experience the decorating. The neighborhood gained national attention and was featured on The Today Show because of their creativity in initiating this display. The whole venture started in the home of Jonathan and Anne Smith, whose daughter shared them an outdoor ornament she loved: a chicken wire ball, about the size of a volleyball, laced with Christmas lights. At the time, she was studying at the College of Art and Design at North Carolina State University and knew good design when she saw it. Her dad replicated the design, filling the trees in their yard with the decorations. The idea spread like Christmas cheer in the neighborhood and now, Ridgeway, Greenway, Madison Avenue have participation by at least 3/4 of the houses. Other streets participate as well.

On Saturday, December 10th will be the 11th annual 5K race through the neighborhood, billed as "The Greatest 5k(ish) in the History of the World." Be sure to bring food to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank. About 2,000 people walk or run and the donated food and money really helps feed people in need in Greensboro. We are a giving community and this Sunset Hills tradition is one fine example how a small idea can blossom into a community event with a service component. Even more lights have been added around the park this year. You won't want to miss it. If you do go out, remember to dress in festive garb and add some lights. Go with a group and you become part of the decorations!

Happy Tuesday!

1401 Mimosa Drive

This yellow house in Westerwood, at the corner of Mimosa Drive and Aberdeen Terrace, is simply stunning as a backdrop to the fall colors. We noticed it again during the Westerwood NeighborWoods, tree-planting event. This maple tree in the foreground is glowing. It looks like they have several Japanese maples in the yard. The house was built in 1950. It is hard to believe it is over 70 years old. It has been well taken care of. According to Zillow, it last sold in 2003. You can tell the owners have invested a lot of time and effort into the yard. It will be fun to walk around this neighborhood and monitor the growth of all the new trees.

Speaking of Mimosa Drive, this Saturday from 10am-4pm, there will be a Holiday Home Show at 2103 Mimosa Drive. Please buy local and support the great artists and crafters who will be selling that day. Peek in on 1401 while you are in the neighborhood.

Happy Thursday! We hope you have a day off tomorrow and, if you know a veteran, be sure to thank them for their service.

Pickleball 101

Have you had a chance to play pickle ball yet? It is a sport that is sweeping the nation. It has been rising in popularity since it was first invented in the mid 1960s in Washington State. For the last two years, it was named the fastest growing sport in the United States.*  Pickleball has become quite popular in Greensboro, too. It is really popular in the Bryan and Spears YMCA; the Greensboro Sportsplex; Bur-Mil Park; Smith Senior Center; and, Proelific Park to name a few places. The above photo features pickleball in full swing at Hamilton Lakes this past weekend. The courts there are nice and players extremely friendly. They are happy to teach new players the rules, the moves, and to get them into games as soon as possible. As a matter of fact, this past Saturday, they offered a clinic for beginners, thirty minutes before matches started up. At the Hamilton Lakes open-club event this past weekend, pickleball was combined with an old-time, string band jam, and a potluck. Pickleball, music, socializing, and food. Could there be a more winning combination? Other than a little fall wind, the weather was perfect!

Happy Tuesday! Please remember to vote.

*read more here.

NeighborWoods Program Brings Trees to Westerwood!

This past weekend, people came out in droves to participate in the tree planting event in Westerwood. The NeighborWoods is funded by private donations to Greensboro Beautiful, with support from the City of Greensboro and the Guilford County Extension Master Gardeners. The initiative is an effort to create tree canopy in neighborhoods where trees have been lost or damaged. The trees get planted in public areas and on streets and front lawn areas. In order to be selected, the neighborhood must show that they have the person power to ensure the trees are watered for the first three years and continue with long term maintenance.*

In addition to the fact that Westerwood will get about 150 new trees, it was also wonderful that people of all ages and walks of life came out to help with the tree planting. There were teams of sororities, college groups, master gardeners, neighbors, and more. The 2021 neighborhood to win the grant was Friendly Homes neighborhood. Friendly Homes is the neighborhood between Wesley Long Hospital and Villa drive and Mimosa. It will be fun to drive around the neighborhood this spring, as well as through Westerwood to see how the trees are doing. Greensboro is known for being a beautiful, green city. These new trees are sure to contribute to the beauty. Let's hope they got planted clear of power lines. Finally, we're wondering where all the shovels get stored and if school groups can check them out for school beautification projects.

Happy Monday!

 

*reference and learn more HERE.

A Lovely, Rainy Day in Glenwood

The above photo was taken a few days ago in the Glenwood neighborhood, on Hertford Street, just off Josephine Boyd Street on a rainy afternoon. The streets were shiny and the yellow leaves made it clear that fall has arrived. We love the way the teal truck cab stands out against the leaves. The owner is diligent about putting up the cones and parking the vehicle off the road. Glenwood is such a wonderful neighborhood on the south side of UNCG.

 is said to be the most diverse neighborhood in Greensboro. According to city data, it is 44.4% black and 42.6% white, 5% Hispanic, 4% Asian, 3.5% 2 or more races. This little neighborhood is only 1/2 square mile with a little over 2,000 residents and almost evenly balanced between males and females. See more city data HERE. They have a strong Facebook group and do a good job of looking out for each other and, at the same time, leaving each other alone. There seems to be a high tolerance for the rooster who is quick to let residents know when it is time to get up. Wonder how quickly he will adjust to the time change this weekend when we switch to local standard time!

Happy Thursday! Don't forget that tomorrow is First Friday. Hope to see you downtown.

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!

 

Suds and Duds

Suds and Duds, located at the corner of Walker Avenue and Elam, has been a Greensboro institution since 1980. The building formerly housed a drug store, Elam Drug Store, until Bill Wardle bought it and converted it into a coin-operated laundry mat and bar. Monday-Friday, the laundry mat opens at 2pm; Saturday and Sunday at noon. Closing time ranges from 10pm on Sunday to midnight and 2:00 am on other nights; perfect hours for college students. If you want something to drink, they have a bar inside. If you want something to eat, there are plenty of options around while the clothes are in the washing machine or dryer. To play a game of pool or darts, the bartender can help you get set up.

As we were leaving this weekend, the two women in the above photo were walking by. They may have been part of the religious group on the corner. The clothing of the women lend a stark contrast to the outfits of the Halloween characters trapped in the Suds & Duds window. Yet, the ladies'  blue and green outfits match the window decoration backdrop, as well as the blue car in the green grass. This was a fun scene, we happened upon by chance. Lindley Park is a perfect place to walk on a warm fall day. You never know what will catch your eye. Also, it is one of those neighborhoods that goes all out for Halloween. Even the laundry mat decorates!

Happy Monday!

Percy Street: Prayers Answered

Percy Street, located in the Dunleath Historic District (formerly, Aycock). It is the kind of neighborhood where everybody knows your name; neighbors look out for each other; and, people do things for the community at large- not expecting anything in return. Examples of this community mindedness include Porchfest, a tiny-library-like box for free puzzles and one for free art. As we were driving to the Greensboro Farmers Market on Yanceyville, we detoured through Dunleath and saw the above tree at the corner of Percy and Brandon had split in half. The owner of the house with the split tree was called over to the porch of a neighbor who wanted to make sure they were OK. Fortunately, the tree didn't hit the house and a removal service was on its way.  There didn't appear to be any damage to houses on Percy Street. Trees are so important to the eco-system; however, the mature ones in these older neighborhoods can do great damage. If you are one who prays, to be sure, this is a prayer answered.

From the remnants of Hurricane Ian, Greensboro had whipping winds and heavy rain. Many people were without power. As far as we could see, it was mostly branches dropping and not whole trees. We hope you were spared and that if there is a lot of debris in your yard, some Good Samaritan neighbor stops by to help you get things cleaned up. After all, Greensboro is known for greenery and, in a way, the trees belong to everyone.

Happy Sunday!

Banned Book Week with Liz Seymour

September 18- 24, 2022 is Banned (and Challenged) Book Week.  This annual awareness campaign is promoted by the American Library Association and also Amnesty International.  The above photo features Liz Seymour, who is hosting banned and challenged books in the Little Free Library box on Lexington Avenue in the Glenwood neighborhood of Greensboro. This little box, on the Florida Street side of Lexington, is filled exclusively with books that have been banned or challenged. Some of the titles may surprise you: The Great Gatsby (F. Scott Fitzgerald); The Catcher in the Rye (JD Salinger); The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck); To Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee); The Color Purple (Alice Walker); Beloved (Toni Morrison); Huckleberry Finn (Mark Twain) and the list goes on and on and on. Most of these just-mentioned classics are in the above box, to take for free (at least they were there at the time of our visit). Liz also has more contemporary selections like the graphic novel "Gender Queer: A Memoir" by Maia Koabe (2019).  All of the books in the Little Free Library are in terrific shape. Sharing banned and challenged books is a way to voice censorship concerns and celebrate free expression.

Liz Seymour has been an active community member throughout her decades in Greensboro. She is perhaps best known as the founding director of the Interactive Resource Center (IRC). The IRC is a day center in Greensboro for people who are experiencing homelessness. It opened in 2009 and Liz was at the helm until she retired in 2014. She retired to focus on writing full time. She is a compelling writer; one of her essays, "Inviting Anarchy Into My Home", was published in the New York Times (March 9, 2006). The piece describes her transforming her home from a conventional married-couple household into an anarchist collective with multiple, non-related people learning to live and thrive together.*  Liz has been one to take a stance and take action for what she believes in. The IRC is still going strong today, thirteen years later. While Liz has also moved on from her anarchist collective, people still talk about what a meaningful experience it was to them. Ever willing to push the envelope, Liz is currently sharing banned and challenged books. Whether they house banned books or just a couple of shelves of someone's mystery books they've finished, The Little Free Library is a great place to give and donate a book. There are many around Greensboro. May your weekend be filled with reading, fellowship with friends like Liz Seymour, and some good ole fall fun. 

*link to the original article.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Wednesday's double rainbow over east Greensboro was nothing short of spectacular. For some reason, it was harder to photograph than most rainbows- especially with a camera phone. However, seeing that perfect, vibrant, half circle was memorable. We did a little rainbow chasing and got the idea to capture it over Irving Park Elementary School (IPES) , since we were nearby and this  was just the first week of the school year. Also, we featured Ms. Japp yesterday, who recently retired after twenty years of teaching there.

Irving Park Elementary was established in 1923, so it is about to turn 100! While many of our schools have directional names or are named after people, IPES is named after the neighborhood where it is located.  This is the Cornwallis side of the school and located on the western end of the Irving Park neighborhood.  IPES is one of 71 elementary schools in Guilford County.  May all of the teachers and students have a great school year- in Irving Park, in Greensboro, in Guilford County, and everywhere! 

Happy Labor Day weekend, the only holiday in September.

3521 Battleground Avenue

Have you ever noticed the house on the west side of Battleground Avenue, between Britishwoods Park and New Garden Road? The above house 3521 Battleground Avenue sits on about 5 acres of property and will be part of the land that Will Stevens and Marty Kotis will develop as part of their High Ground Project. the project, estimated to be 35 million, will be a mixed use facility incorporating shops, restaurants, and lofts and  two five-story multi-family residential buildings constructed into a slope. Here is a link to a digital rendering of the project from Biz Journal. We had always hoped that the Britishwoods Park would be extended as it has a favorite sled riding hill, plus there is a stream and walking near it evokes the feeling of being on a mini-hike in a remote area when really you are on one of the busiest streets in town.

Now that we know that the mixed-use property is moving forward, we are anxious to see how it will look. To be sure, we will miss this little house in the woods and driving past is early morning or late at night, seeing the lights on, and wishing we lived on that five acres. According to Zillow, this is a two-bedroom; two-bathroom house built in 1978. Who would have known that 44 years later, land this far north on Battleground would become mostly retail. At least according to the drawing, it looks like there will be some green space and that the stream will flow above ground. Watch for The High Ground Project to be underway soon!

Happy Monday!

The People's Market in Glenwood

This photo was taken yesterday, early evening (about 7:00 pm) at the People's Market in Glenwood. The market is held every Thursday, at the corner of Glenwood Avenue and Florida Street in the Glenwood neighborhood. Glenwood is a neighborhood just south of Gate City Boulevard between Coliseum Boulevard and Freeman Mill Road. The Glenwood neighborhood dates back to the early 20th century and is said to be THE most diverse neighborhood in all of North Carolina. The neighborhood works hard to celebrate its diversity and to get people at all income levels interacting and supporting each other. The clouds were so beautiful and, if you were outside at night, you saw the glorious Sturgeon moon; full and bright!

The People's Market is every Thursday from 5:30- 8:00pm from April through October. You can get everything from vegan food to fresh produce to hand pressed juices to free items, and MORE! Walking through this market reminded us that on the weekends in Greensboro,  and there are many options for purchasing produce and other goods locally. Please challenge yourself to support local farmers, vendors, and artists. Unless they are swamped, most will take the time to chat and make a personal connection with you. Tomorrow, there will be music at the Greensboro Farmers Curb Market on Yanceyville (9:00- 11:30). Recipes for success will be there and offering free tastings. We hope to see you there tomorrow and at the Peoples Market next Thursday- and everywhere else in between.

Happy Friday!

2416 Walker Avenue: Little Round House

Twelve years on Greensboro Daily Photo, we featured the 2 bedroom 1 bathroom, round house at 2416 Walker Avenue. We decided to return after over a decade and see if anything had changed. Well, the actual house still looks the same (see here). In a way, how are you going to change a round house? If you add on, it will no longer be round. Adding a second floor would be hard. Indeed, the house looks the same, but the big difference is the yard. It has going from being a fairly empty 1/4 acre lot to now being filled with plants, flowers for pollinators, and a giant plant that is either squash, gourds, or pumpkins. There were butterflies, bees, and goldfinches working the yard and the owners have definitely created a yard that they don't need to mow.

Leading up to the door (not visible in this photo) are round stepping stones and two heads that look like the Moai heads on Easter Island. 2416 Walker Ave., built in 1976,  is definitely a unique property and the owners seem to have a great spirit about them. It will be fun to watch what they will do with all of the squash, gourds, pumpkins they harvest over the next month. Wonder what it will look like if we stop back by in another decade. We're still waiting for that tour of the inside.

Happy First Friday! Be sure to head downtown this evening. There will be so much happening downtown, especially in the city parks, in the Cultural Arts Center, and on Elm Street.