Greensboro Daily Photo

UNCG Women's Basketball

Yesterday was Education Day for the University of North Carolina Greensboro Spartans. Local K-12 schools were invited to attend a game of the UNCG Women’s Basketball team. The game was played in Fleming gym against Radford University of Virginia.  The UNCG Spartans won the game with a final score of 72-54. At the conclusion of the game, the UNCG players and cheerleaders came into the stands to “high five” students, creating great memories for the young learners.

If you notice the gold "G" on the opposing team's side of the gym, it represents the "G" in UNCG. There are 17 institutions in the UNC system and UNCG has branded itself as "The G".  For sure, if you like college basketball, you have plenty of options to see the sport played in Greensboro. Let's hope all universities, near and far, reach out to the community and invite children to see a game. You never know when dreams begin and when they become reality.

The UNCG Women's Basketball team has their next game on Saturday, November 19th at 2:00 pm. also in Fleming Gym. If you can, please support them.

Happy Thursday!

 

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.

Fall Football

Watching high school football in the fall is so much fun. Above is a photo of the junior varsity game at Southern High School with Eastern High School. The crowd was small, but the air was perfect for watching football with friends. Eastern did really well and won the game, but both teams gained great experience. If you did not get out last night, consider attending a varsity game tonight. If you plan ahead, you can make sure to dress in the color you will be cheering on. It costs $7 for an adult to enter- unless you  are a GCS employee and have your school ID, you can get in free.

Happy Friday! Let us know what you are us to this weekend.

Baseball in Greensboro

Greensboro is a great city for baseball and we have team options from youth T-ball and baseball programs for school aged children to a triad adult baseball team to the minor league baseball team, the Grasshoppers. There are also all levels of play from YMCA recreational ball to Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) programs. The above AAU game was being held in the World War Memorial Stadium on Yanceyville Street; former home of Greensboro's minor league team- then known as the Bats. Now, the World War Memorial Stadium is where the NCA&T Aggies play their games. The stadium is located on the edge of the NCA&T campus, just across from the Greensboro Farmers Market.

Next time you are at the farmers market, peak your head in and see if they are playing baseball. If you have a young person in your life who is interested in playing ball, the Aggie stadium is a fun place to be a spectator. It is really easy to get a good seat. The stadium was built in 1926, and it is showing some age, but when you are there playing or watching a game, the nostalgia is evident. We think the above AAU player is playing for the Dirtbags. The dirtbags, a travel team since 2002, has had 260 alumni drafted by Major League Baseball (reference and more information here). That is the caliber of playing you can see in the summer at Aggie Stadium. And of course, there are the Grasshoppers downtown. Summer fun!

Night Kayaking at Lake Brandt

Last night, from 8:00- 10:00 pm, Lake Brandt held extended hours for night kayaking. You had the option to bring your own kayak, rent a solo, or rent a double kayak. The Greensboro Parks and Recreation staff are very good about helping participants get their equipment in and out of the water, whether you bring your own or rent. During the night events in the summer, you ride out as the sun is setting and ride back at dark. While the above photo is blurry, you get the idea of how it looked and felt out on the water last night. The water was calm and so peaceful. Most people participated with a friend or two. Some kayakers met new friends while out on the water. Everyone was very friendly. While the Parks and Rec. staff are also on the water for your safety, the expectation is that you can function independently on the water; there is no "guided tour". However, if you just pay attention to where you are headed and the location of the dock, the adventure is pretty straightforward. 

There cannot possibly be a better way to end a summer evening than to be on the water watching the birds and fish settle in for the night. Here is the link to the website with the information about our three lakes, Higgins, Brandt, Townsend. You can find information about rentals and the schedules for when the lakes are open. As we were leaving, the staff member who helped us carry our kayak to the car encouraged us to some out to lake Higgins next Wednesday for night kayaking. If you like to avoid the sun's strong rays, night kayaking is for you.

Happy Friday!

Greensboro Community Swim Association: City Meet 2022

The Community Swim Association (CSA) is such a wonderful opportunity for swimmers between the ages of five and nineteen. Whether someone swims year round or simply in summer,  CSA provides children good, fun opportunities to hone their swimming and team-building skills. Swimming as a sportis all about swimming your personal best for yourself and your team. Yesterday's competition at the Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC) did not disappoint. The above photo features the top three fastest female teams in Event 39, the 15-19 Medley Relay. The Bur-Mil Marlins, one of the newest teams in CSA and a group that practices at a public pool in Owl's Roost, took first place; The Lawndale Lizards, a team that meets closer to town and one of the older teams, took second place; Henson Forest, a newer team, located in Summerfield, placed third. The medley relay features each of the four strokes: Back, breast, butterfly, and freestyle. Four swimmers work together, to earn their team a victory.

If you want something fun to do today, head to the Coliseum Complex and for the price of $5 to park, you can have a wonderful spectator experience in a state-of-the-art facility. Here is a link to follow along of events and results. Today's events are: Freestyle, individual medley, and the free relay. Swimmers compete in the morning to determine who swims in what heat in the afternoon. Even is you don't have a child or relative swimming, chances are, you will know families with children competing. 

We hope you have a happy Saturday and, if you see a CSA swimmer, ask them what they enjoyed most about summer swimming. You will get an array of answers. For many, competing at the GAC will be a highlight, and, if they are luck/accomplished enough to make the podium, it feels a little bit like the Olympics! Look at those smiles!

Hello Summer... Let's Swim!

Hello Summer! Recently, we were at Lindley Pool having nostalgia for the Greensboro Community Swim Association and all the years the summer meets for the city were held at Lindley Pool in Lindley Park. It was fun having the meets outdoors and the park was great entertainment for siblings who weren't swimming and during those long waits between events- which can seem like a lifetime to the 8 and under swimmers. However, not the meet is held at the Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC) and it is going on today and tomorrow. There will be at least 20 swim clubs and about 2,000 swimmers between the ages of 5-18. If you go to the CSA website, you can monitor the results as they are reported.

GAC opened Summer 2011 and for the past 11 years, the facility has provided Greensboro with state-of-the art pools bringing many national events to the area. As a matter of fact, in two weeks, the YMCA long-course nationals will be held at the GAC, but for the next two days, those lanes belong to the children of Greensboro who competed in dual meets for their home swim clubs. Some children swim year-round, some just swim in the summer. Regardless of one's level, fun will be had by all. In the meantime, for those who aren't swimming in City Meet and who aren't interested in the meet of the summer, Lindley Pool is open and ready to welcome you with open arms!

Happy Friday!

 

People of Greensboro: Marena Miesse

It is so fun and easy to meet people when you walk around on a sunny day, especially downtown. Yesterday, we met Marena Miesse while she was out skating near Tanger Center and LeBauer Park. You can also see the Greensboro History Museum in the background. Marena is part of a skate group in Greensboro called "336 Skaters", and they regularly skate together. You may have seen a group of skaters with glow sticks riding around downtown recently. That was their group. It looks so much fun! If you are interested, you can find the group on social media.

Marena is a student at UNCG, majoring in sociology. She is a self-taught skater, and has been working hard to master the still while at college.  Last night, Marena was skating alone, as opposed to with her group. Skating is such a good way to get exercise, meet people, and get to know Greensboro better. She said she would likely skate for about two hours. This is such good, healthy, old-fashioned fun. Downtown, in the LeBauer Park area, was lively last night, but Marena was the only roller skater we saw. Look at that beautiful smile. Seeing someone with such a heartfelt smile reminds us to smile!

Happy Thursday!

Joymongers and the Ambience Downtown Yesterday

Yesterday was a glorious spring day, with the temperature soaring to 80, and downtown was teeming with people excited to be outside. The above photo was taken in front of Joymongers at 576 North Eugene Street at the tiny LoFi Park. This little slice of joy is a favorite of people who like outdoor activities. We're not sure of the name of the woman leading the exercise session here, but it was wonderful. She is the woman with the red balloon was explaining to the group that having something in your hands, regardless of how light, helps engage the core muscles. Participants seemed to be enjoying the session. If you know about this session, please let us know. Obviously, it was planned as people arrived with equipment and wearing exercise clothes.

It was so nice yesterday, people were out running and walking their dogs. The first Wednesday in April is National Walking Day*, so if you were out walking yesterday you participated in this national event. We were walking and, as we were returning, we noticed the Lincoln Financial Group building in the background. It is always fun to feature a slice of what was known as the "JP Building" in our downtown photos.

Happy Thursday!

*if you read this article about National Walking Day, you will learn some really interesting facts like tennis shoes wear out after 500 miles and that people walk 65,000 miles in their lifetime. These aren't Greensboro-specific statistics, but if you walk a lot, you will find them interesting.

Golf in the Heart of Irving Park

Spring is the time for being outdoors and for outdoor sports. The people of Greensboro love golf and there are many courses in the area; at all price points. The above photo was taken at the Greensboro Country Club in Irving Park yesterday. However, given the black and white photo and the golfers using pull carts, the scene could have as easily been from the early 20th century as it is the 21st. Irving Park is one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods yet is is easily accessible. One can meander through the rolling hills of the neighborhood on foot or drive along in a car. It is so lovely this time of year with the manicured lawns and the spring flowering plants and trees. 

If you drive along Country Club Drive, you will notice that work is being done at the Greensboro Country Club (GCC). Summer 2020, GCC passed a 19.1 million dollar renovation plan. They are revamping the pool, restaurants, fitness center, and youth activities facility. They are getting two additional pools and recreational facilities.* The finished product promises to be a state-of-the-art facility rivaling any country club in the southeast.  While all of the upgrades in amenities will be appealing, there is something charming about the timeless look of the golf course itself.

Happy Wednesday!

*read more about the renovation, HERE.

The Sandlot

Saturday was such a glorious day in Greensboro. The weather felt like spring and there was every excuse to get outside. We went to the arts and crafts market at Odom Brewing. That was very nice, and we bought some jewelry from two local high school students who had a table there. As we walked around we noticed these elementary school aged children playing on the lot adjacent to Odom. While the parents were sitting at picnic tables keeping an eye on their children, the little ones played ball and were having a blast. The whole scene evoked memories of the way things used to be, back in the dark ages before cell phones, iPads, and video games. They were having a blast. The definition of a sandlot is "a piece of unoccupied land used by children for games." So, if you have children, go to Odom Brewing on West Gate City Boulevard and encourage the kids to play in the sandlot.

We're not sure how close to Odom the venue will extend, but the Tate + Gate: Hotspot for Innovation will be in this area. While it won't be a sandlot, any place that fosters innovation, art, and creativity will be a good thing. But for now, we're simply going to enjoy seeing children play in that inhibited, not-a-care-in-the-world way that only children can play!

Happy Monday!

Piedmont Winterfest Skating Fun

Piedmont Winterfest in downtown Greensboro was going strong yesterday, in spite of the fact that there was a high of 72º yesterday. Above Greta and Skylar were there to help those who came to skate. In spite of the fact that there was a layer of water on top of the ice, enough of the water was frozen that people could, indeed, skate. Since school is out, hours are extended from 12 noon- 8pm tonight and until 10pm the rest of the week. Here is a complete list of hours, in case you want to go. Here is the website where you can even purchase tickets ($12) and see more photos. 

It was so fun chatting with Greta and Skylar. Greta is a student at Appalachian State; she plans to be a physical therapist. Skylar is a student at Rockingham Community College- studying elementary education. You can tell by their attire that it wasn't very cold outside. At the time we arrived, nobody was skating, and the WFMY News 2 van was parked nearby with the driver (videographer?) in the van. Perhaps he was waiting for skaters. Just as we'd finished talking to Greta and Skylar, a couple of carloads of people drove up. Once they paid for parking, the kids were ready to hit the ice. You can find the rink at the Barnhardt Street Parking lot, between Southen Brewing on Lewis Street and Fat Tuesday and the former Jae, Mar shop on the north end.  See you on the ice!

Playing Soccer on the Fields at Guilford College

What could be more fun on a sunny, Sunday afternoon in October than grabbing a folding chair and heading to an outdoor field to watch kids play soccer? The above photo was taken at Guilford College where light blue and dark blue were playing their hearts out. While we were there, light blue was dominating the game. However, there wasn't even any sign of a scoreboard. All players were giving it their all and trying to apply all of the techniques and strategies learned from their coaches. Over the last two decades, soccer has grown in popularity in Greensboro and opportunities are available to compete at all levels. 

It is so wonderful that Guilford College has made it possible for their fields to be used by the community. Guilford College was established in 1837 and for 184 years has been an important part of our community. As many institutions of higher education *IHE) struggle financially, the college community  and the local population at large need to collaborate and do everything to help the smaller and private IHEs thrive. Happy Monday. Here's to the Guilford Quakers and those children on the field who just may become future Quakers!

Strolling the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway

Since we featured a bike event yesterday on Greensboro Daily Photo, so, we thought it would be nice to share a photo of bikes out on the trail this past Saturday. The above photo was taken on the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway, near where Lake Higgins and Lake Brandt meet.  We started at Bur-Mil and walked to the Vineyards community at Highway 150 in Summerfield. The trails are open from 8:00 am- sunset and seem to be busiest early morning. We were there mid-day, when the sun was hottest and the trails weren't very busy at that time. As evidenced above, we did see a some cyclists. And look at that dappled light. The trail was so lovely this weekend.

This part of the greenway goes past a kudzu field that has overtaken a lot of the terrain. Currently, the kudzu is in full bloom and quite fragrant. The Greensboro trail system is something to be proud of. Currently, the Piedmont Greenway will connect to the above trail. As a matter of fact, the Piedmont Greenway is a planned, 19-mile trail that will connect Greensboro to Kernersville to Winston-Salem. With all of the bicycle aficionados in the local area, the Piedmont Greenway will be a bit hit. We can't wait! Happy Tuesday! Hope to see you on the trails while the weather is still warm. 

Softball At Revolution Ballfield

Greensboro summers are meant for spending time outside, especially when you get to watch youth sports. The above photo was taken during a softball game last night at Revolution Ballfield. It is located at 2200 Yanceyville Street at Cornwalis Drive, right across from the former Revolution Mill. This park is known for being family oriented, which appeared to be the case last night when people of all ages brought their folding chairs and gathered behind the fence to watch the softball game.

Back when the textile mills were active in Greensboro, whole communities grew up around them. The mills made sure their workers had access to good housing, entertainment, houses of worship, clouting, food,  and recreation. The clothing and chairs may have changed from 100 years ago, but you can be sure that the feeling you get when cheering for the home team hasn't changed a bit. Even if you don't have a child in your life who is playing sports, it is still fun to go and watch. These games are especially fun on nights like last night. The weather was in the 80s, but not sweltering and those beautiful clouds made an amazing backdrop!

Happy Wednesday!

Southern Conference Softball Championship 2021

The Southern Conference Softball Championship continues today and tomorrow, hosted by UNCG. The above photo, taken yesterday during game 1, features the softball field on the northwest corner of the UNCG campus. * The stadium was built in 2006 on the site of the old softball stadium and this beautiful facility has hosted the Southern Conference Championship every other year since 2014. It also hosted in 2007 and in 2013.

At 12:30 pm today, #1 UNCG will play #2 Western Carolina in Game 4 of the tournament.  Game 5 will be held at 3:00pm with #4 Mercer playing the Game 4 loser. Game 6 will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday with a match up between the Game 4 and 5 winners. If necessary, there will be a Game 6. The Chattanooga team earned the 2019 championship title. Chattanooga lost to Mercer in Game 3 today.

If you love softball or have a child who plays, you should consider attending a game here some year. However, at present, it looks like it is "pass list only", as UNCG is still taking every precaution in these Covid times. Last year the championship was cancelled altogether, so players are super happy to be back out on the fields and looked so ready to play as they filed into the stadium yesterday in their uniforms and representing their universities.

This is the 100th year of the Southern Conference. Let's hope the Spartans take all!  See the conference website here.

Skateboarding in Greensboro

This photo, taken in December, is of teens skating downtown on Barnhardt Street. It is so hard for teens to find things to do for entertainment and to find ways to socialize with schools closed. Skateboarding is a way to get outside, get a little exercise, and have fun with friends. These skaters were just off Elm Street, trying to master pop shuvits, ollies, grabs, and more. Historically, Greensboro hasn't been known as a skating town, but, popularity has been increasing over the years. If you know of young people looking for places to skate, there is the Above Board Skatepark on Greengate Drive. Also, Latham Skatepark offers skateboarding, as does the Glenwood neighborhood. Skaters should wear helmets and pads (and masks).

If you have ever been the parent of a skateboarder, you know how easy it is for accidents to happen. However, parents also learn that that the determination comes from practicing skateboard moves, which is good for helping kids learn to focus and work towards goals. Skateboarding is now a Summer Olympic sport and will debut in the games in Tokyo this summer. Who knows, maybe the above skateboarding trio from Greensboro someday will compete in the Olympics. If these guys need a new board, wheels, or trucks, Stolen Skate Shop at 534 South Elm Street is just down the street. Stolen adds yet another opportunity for entertainment in the 500 block of South Elm- arcade, bowling, ice skating, and skateboarding supplies all within the block.

Happy Saturday. May you find something fun and safe to make your day memorable.

Kathleen Price Bryan YMCA

The Kathleen Price Bryan YMCA has reopened for indoor exercise and members love it. The above photo shows the facility, located on the corner of South Spring and West Market Streets. It was a sunny day yesterday and traffic downtown was light. However, people are cautiously optimistic that they are able to return to working out indoors. The YMCA organization was implemented in Greensboro in 1859 by Julius Gorrell and the "Y" has been enriching the minds and bodies of Greensboro for 161 years.

During COVID, the Y has made an effort to stay connected with members, from providing online exercise to Facebook posts, to some exercise outdoors. So many Y members have built not only their exercise regimen but also their socialization around the Y. It has been a hard six month and slowly and cautiously, members are reestablishing some of their routines. The building is beautiful on the inside and outside, especially on a sunny day.

Saturday Afternoon Football

Slowly, and cautiously, sports are opening back up. This past Saturday, in the fields at Oak Ridge Military Academy, the Oak Ridge Youth Association held games. It was Hornets vs. Vikings in the above photo with lots of family members cheering on their children. We didn't see who won, but both teams were playing their hearts out. Spectators seemed to cluster by families and be conscious of social distancing.

With most school, YMCA,  and teams with religious affiliations on hold this fall, community-based and private organizations have been the "go to" choice for sports. As another example, Proehlific Park has 3 soccer fields for practice and games with the Greensboro United Soccer Association. Socially distancing is an added layer for athletes to navigate, in addition to staying healthy, eating right, and having good conduct on and off the field. As the temperatures cool off, rains roll in, and the fall days get shorter, every minute outside becomes more and more special- on and off the field.

Spring Sports Have Begun

Slowly, end of summer/fall sports are starting to pop up around the city. As seen above, Proelific Park is using their fields for baseball and soccer. Coaches and players are making an effort to avoid physical contact; something that is easier in outdoor sports than indoor sports.Greensboro is a big baseball and soccer town.

Tennis and Golf are also very popular in Greensboro. Golfers have been out enjoying the weather recently and the Wyndham was this past weekend at the Sedgefield Country Club. It was a very tournament this year having been played without spectators. Sports are adjusting and people are getting very creative about having physical activity. In some cases, people are meeting and spewing themselves out in parking lots to get exercise. May we all find that balance of staying safe and healthy and keeping our bodies fit. Remember, downtown is hosting "Chow Downtown" tonight on Elm Street if you want to stroll around downtown and then get a bite to eat. Also remember that our hiking trails and lakes are open for some out of doors activities. Happy Friday; happy weekend!

Happy Fourth of July 2020

The above photo was taken at the golf course at the Greensboro Country Club at their farm course. The land the course is built on was once part of the Carlson Farm and is now a golf course. Many people will be playing golf today. Last year on the Fourth of July, it seemed as if almost everyone in Greensboro was downtown for Fun Fourth. There was so much to do downtown, especially on Elm Street. Jack and Liz Grimes were even performing weddings.

This year, plans will need to be very different as so much has been cancelled. it will be up to individuals to make their own fun. But we can! Hopefully, you can have a picnic and spend time with those in your household. There are also options for getting out of doors. Golf is a great outdoor option, and Greensboro has plenty of courses, public and private.

So, Happy Fourth of July! Let us know how you spent it.

Soccer and Sports are Slowly Starting to Resume!

The above photo was taken this past Thursday at the soccer fields at Proehlific Park at Jessup Grove Road. The young athletes seemed extremely excited to be back out on the fields. Soccer is a no-contact sport and mainly the goalie is supposed to touch the ball, and they wear gloves. In July, the Guilford County Schools will allow sports workouts to resume. So, slowly, people are starting to play sports again and it sure looks fun.

Boating on Greensboro's Lakes

Boating is a great sport and way to keep physical distance. The man in this boat was fishing on Lake Brandt recently. He said he had luck when it was overcast but not once the sun came out. Lake Brandt is one of Greensboro's municipal reservoirs. It was built in 1925 and named for Greensboro mayor Leon Brandt.* Largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish are the fish most commonly caught in the lake.

The largest bass caught on Lake Brandt, weighed twelve pounds and two ounces (read, here) and was caught by C.T. Boyles in 1967. Perhaps this will be the year for the record to be broken. Can you imagine catching a 12-pound fish on a Greensboro lake? Happy fishing, all three lakes are open today!

*reference and more information, here.

Curly Neal Rest In Peace

Fred "Curly" Neal, the Harlem Globetrotter from Greensboro died yesterday. He was 77 years old and living near Houston. As of this post, his cause of death in unknown. We featured him on Greensboro Daily Photo in 2010 and it has already been ten years. We were in the Food Lion at Cardinal Crossing and he came in. He was so nice and very graciously stood around chatting with fans and signing autographs. See our post from February 9th, 2010, here.

North Carolina has always been a basketball state and Greensboro has been known as tournament town. Mr. Neal was raised around great basketball and back when he was at Dudley High School, he was playing great basketball. While he traveled the world with the Harlem Globetrotters and for basketball, he never forgot his hometown. You will be missed, Mr. Neal. 

Ed Hardin has an article in today's News and Record. If you want to read the CNN article, see here.

View From the Treadmill

Today's photo features the Spears Y on Horse Pen Creek Road. Taken this past Saturday morning, the photo shows many people starting the weekend with exercise. The beginning of the work week may also prompt people to set exercise goals. Some people workout before work and some after. As long as you can get a machine, it can be inspiring to workout surrounded by others. Often, you will see people you know. 

Greensboro has three Y's in the metropolitan area, Spears in the northeast, Bryan downtown, and Hayes-Taylor in east Greensboro. Stoney Creek and Ragsdale are also within driving distance. With Y membership, you can use any one in North Carolina. Whether you belong to the Y or a private fitness center, going is the first step. Happy Monday and happy being fit for life!

Baseball Season Is Upon Us!

Baseball season is upon us! The above photo shows the dugout of the UNCG Spartans at their game yesterday against the UNC Charlotte Diamond Niners. The final results were UNCG, six, and UNC Charlotte, four. Those results have UNCG on a six game winning streak. If you are interested in seeing some UNCG baseball, they have a three game series at home against App State. The series begins on Friday at 4pm, the UNCG stadium is really nice, and, so far when we have gone, the entrance has been free.

There are so many options to see good baseball in Greensboro, from the minor league Grasshoppers to the local AAU teams to Little League to all of the many local college and university teams. Baseball can be such a community-building sport. If you haven't already, plan a few baseball outings. The Greensboro Grasshoppers have their first home game on April 9th. Batter up... and Happy Wednesday!

 

 

Let's Bowl!

If you are looking for some exercise centered around family fun, consider bowling. It is especially fun in the winter when weather affects outdoor sports. Bowling is a great family activity and can be played by people at all ages.

The above photo was taken at Triad Lanes on Oak Branch, off Wendover, across the street from Carmax. Bowling hours are open day and night. Triad Lanes has an early bird special for those who like to bowl Sunday mornings. If you bowl a lot, you may want to invest in a ball. You can get fitted for the perfect finger holes and weight. Also, shoe rental is $4.00, so, if you bowl a lot, you may want to purchase shoes. Bowling is an NCAA sport for women and scholarships are available. In Greensboro, NC A&T has a very competitive women's bowling team. If you ever want to watch them practice, they practice at AMF All Star Lanes on Holden Road.

Happy New Year! Consider heading to the bowling alley!

O2 Fitness

Yesterday, the sun was shining brightly on all of Greensboro, including O2 Fitness in Friendly Center. O2 was built at the corner of Pembroke and Northline, in the spot formerly housing Tex & Shirley's Restaurant. Tex and Shirley's has relocated to Irving Park on Lawndale, leaving room on this corner for this 30,000 sq. ft. fitness club. There are studio spaces for group fitness classes, machines for individual workouts, personal trainers, programs for children, and more.

In five days, it will be New Years Day and 2020. Tis the season when so many people make resolutions to exercise more and lead a healthier lifestyle. Greensboro has many options, from non-profits like the Y to yoga studios to cross-fit to private, full-service facilities like O2. Most of these facilities have try-before-you-join plans. If you are looking for a space to work out, we hope you find a place. The social aspect of working out has a way of producing great results. O2 is now open and is working hard to be just that place you are looking for. Happy Friday! Happy heart health!

 

Runners of Greensboro

Greensboro seems to be a city of runners and walkers. This past weekend alone, there was the Women's Only 5K Walk and Run, supporting mammography for those who need financial assistance; the Crop Walk was held on Sunday, to help end poverty and hunger in our community. Also, Gibbs Hundred held their Growler Gallop on Sunday. The above photo features runners lined up at the start/finish on State Street. The first wave featured those running a 10 K which involved running up a tough hill in Irving Park, TWICE! The next wave was for the 5K runners.

All of these events build community and most help raise money for those in need. Greensboro also has many running groups that help you train for these events. In October and November, there will be half marathons in town. Consider giving running a try while the weather is still nice! See here for upcoming races, including the one this Saturday at Barbour Park. If you aren't ready this year, there is always next year. 

Greensboro Aquatic Center

Today, we once again feature the Greensboro Aquatic Center. It has being receiving so much deserved praise lately for the addition of a fourth pool. The new pool was built with generated revenue. Swimmers and their families from around the country come here to compete. The above photo features the entrance. Look how beautiful it is, especially on a sunny day when the clouds reflect on the glass facade.

The gray stone facade and metal around the doors accentuates the geometric shapes found throughout the facility. To the right, you see one of the fiberglass statues of blue jeans seen throughout Greensboro. The one above, with the waves at the knees, is absolutely perfect for the aquatic center. West Gate City Boulevard shines this great facility and who Coliseum Complex in general. Happy Friday! We hope you are in the position to make the most of the weekend.

Fourth Pool at the Greensboro Aquatic Center

Yesterday, Greensboro Daily Photo got to enjoy a sneak preview of the 4th pool at the Greensboro Acquatic Center- GAC. The grand opening is slated for Tuesday, September 24th. Pool 4 has eight long lanes and nineteen short lanes, depending on how the lane ropes and dive platforms are placed. Located at the Coliseum Complex, with the addition of the 4th pool, the facility is now over 100,000 square feet. There is plenty of room to swim, dive, practice, shower, and watch and wait for events.

The controversy about opening such a costly swim facility, before it was built in 2011, has long been forgotten. The GAC is considered one of the premiere facilities for swimming in the nation and it generates great revenue for the City of Greensboro. If you get a chance, visit the GAC this fall, or mark your calendar and attend the grand opening. While the space is always beautiful, it is especially beautiful in preparation for the grand opening. Even new signage has been added. You will be impressed. Here is an interior shot of the main pool area taken by GDP in the first year the facility was open. We really like the write up of that post.

Take Me Out to the (Base)ball Game...

With the Virginia win over Texas Tech on Monday night, basketball season will pretty much be on hold until November. However, for sports fans, there are plenty of opportunities to see good baseball in the Greensboro area. From little league to high school teams, AAU teams, college teams, and the minor league, you can find baseball here almost every night of the week. 

The above photo was taken on Saturday when the UNCG Spartans were continuing a game against Furman University that had been stopped the night before due to rain. In the above photo, the pitcher was warming up. He has quite a bit of flexibility and, as you can see, he pitches with his left hand.

UNCG baseball is free and open to the public and always fun to watch. Children love to watch the game and to retrieve the balls that go over the fence. When returned to the concession stand, they get a free drink. If you are looking for wholesome, family fun, head to a baseball game. The Greensboro Grasshoppers are another great option. They have theme nights, nights with fireworks, and a play area for children. High Point has a new minor league team, the Rockers. They play in a brand new stadium on Lindsay Street.

 

Triad Auburn Club

Last night, the Triad Auburn Club met at Hickory Tavern on Stratford Road in Winston-Salem to watch Auburn soar to victory over the Carolina Tarheels. On Sunday, the club will come to Greensboro and  Auburn fans will meet at Fat Dogs at the corner of South Holden Road and Spring Garden to see if the Auburn Tigers will qualify for the final four.

Likely, many brackets in North Carolina were ruined with the Auburn win over Carolina. However, Auburn fans from Greensboro are good sports, very courteous, and super excited to see Auburn play in the Elite 8. The last time Auburn played in the Elite 8 was 1986. Regardless of what team you are cheering for, college basketball  has a way of bringing people together for some good old fashioned fun. To be sure, March Madness comes by its name honestly.

Happy Saturday!

Baseball Season Is Upon Us

With all of the high schools, AAU teams, institutions of higher education and the Greensboro Grasshoppers, there are so many options to see baseball in Guilford County. The above photo shows the dugout at Guilford College. This past Sunday, the Guilford College Quakers played the Randolph-Macon Yellow Jackets. Unfortunately for the Quakers, the Yellow Jackets won. 

If you want to attend their next home game, it will be against William Peace tomorrow at 3:00 p.m., at exactly the same time as the Underground Railroad Tour on campus. You could go on the tour, which will probably be brief, and then stop by the game. At least it stays light longer now to enjoy these options in the afternoon/early evening.

Spring Sports in Guilford County

Since spring is approaching, it is time for spring sports. The above school features an early-season practice at High Point Central. Although the high powered lights capture the attention, if you look in the middle to the right, you can see the team and their coach.  

While High Point Central is located in High Point, in 1991, the residents of Guilford County voted to merge the Greensboro, High Point, and county schools into one district. Today, the unified district, Guilford County Schools, has over 72,000 students and there are many sports rivalries among the district's schools. If you want some great, affordable fun, attend some local games and support our students. Many of them will go on to be college athletes and it is super special if you've had a chance to see them play when they were in high school.

Ultralight Fun

This weekend seemed to bring a wide variety of vehicles to the friendly skies around Greensboro. Just north of Greensboro, in Summerfield, off of 220 north, this ultralight was spotted on Sunday. Piedmont Aerosports of Greensboro offers flying lessons for these smaller recreational crafts.  Also, through Piedmont Aerosports new and used vehicles are available. They even have a vehicle called a gyroplane that looks like a helicopter with a thread thin propeller.

We also saw single engine planes and helicopters out taking advantage of the clear skies. Getting from Point A to Point B offers so many possibilities these days, including sports aircrafts. It is interesting to watch these vehicles in flight. They evoke a feeling of being at the beach.

Strolling Along South Elm Street

It is always heartwarming to see families taking advantage of the businesses and resources in downtown Greensboro. In the above photo, a mother and her two daughters are walking along South Elm Street, near the Community Theatre of Greensboro. Each has her raincoat, boots,  and knows the "stick together and hold hands rule." They seemed so happy enjoying their afternoon together. Even if your family is grown, or far away, adventures around town are also meaningful with friends. There is so much to see and explore.

In the front, right corner of the photo, you can see a white Christmas tree that had been sent to the curb. There are still some decorations around the community. However, most of Greensboro has put the holidays behind and is bracing for possible inclement weather this weekend. Not to fear. Just hold hands and go forth with joy and determination.

2019 Polar Bear Ride

Every January 1st, for the past 21 years, the Greensboro Velo Club has sponsored the Polar Bear ride. In the above photo, they are getting briefed by Dale Brown as cyclists prepare to depart from Cycles de Oro.  There was a course for all levels of cyclists, from those who only wanted to ride 25 miles to those who wanted to ride a full 100 miles.

The talk of the day was how unseasonably warm it was this year (in the 60s) and how cold it was last year (in the teens). At least it was overcast on New Year's Day, but not raining, which meant nobody got a sunburn in January! The cycling communities are growing in Greensboro and there is a real effort to add bike lanes, greenways, and trails to ride off road. Recreational cycling is great exercise and finding a group to ride with makes the sport even more meaningful. If you are looking for a way to exercise, cycling is a popular option. Here's to a great year of riding and sharing the road!

UNCG vs Liberty

The Liberty University women's basketball team, the Lady Flames, was in Greensboro yesterday to play a game against the UNCG Lady Spartans. The game was what you call a buzzer beater with UNCG winning in the last second with a score of 48-45. Liberty, located in Lynchburg, VA, is only 109 miles from Greensboro, making this match up something of a backyard brawl.

If you are looking for fun and affordable activities for winter break, check out what the local universities have to offer. Between basketball games, art galleries, and great places to walk and romp around, the many institutions of higher education (IHE's) in the area provide great options. While the IHE's are already on break, the K-12 public schools in Guilford County will be readjusting to academic rigor today after a week of snow days. Happy Monday!

 

Happy Thanksgiving 2018

The above photo features a teacher from Claxton Elementary (left) and one from Lindley Elementary(right) . They both agreed to compete in a "turkey trot" by dressing in turkey suits, dribbling down the court, making a layup shot and dribbling back to the starting point; all while their students were cheering them on. This fun rivalry transpired during the UNCG women's basketball game on Friday. As memory serves, Team Lindley won. 

The photo reminds us that, on Thanksgiving, enjoying each other's company is a big part of the holiday. Let us all give thanks for our GCS teachers who will do just about anything for their students, including dressing is giant turkey suits and waddling down a basketball court. Let us give thanks for our time with family and friends, and the food on our tables.

Happy Thanksgiving!