Greensboro Daily Photo

Whirlie Nation... Grimsley High State 4A Football Champs!

Last night, the Grimsley Whirlie football team played the high-school 4A championship game against Rolesville High School Rams from Wake County. The above photo features the team sendoff this afternoon leaving from the Grimsley campus. Students, parents, and the press were on hand as the team marched from campus to the busses. Coach Darell Brown, a few players, and the principal spoke and gave words of gratitude.  The players, drum line, dancers, and cheerleaders all marched up through campus and the team headed in the busses, up Westover Terrace and turning right onto Wendover east.

The game was played at Kenan Memorial Stadium on the campus of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. The Whirlies led the whole way, with a final score of 35-23.  There were some fantastic plays during the game. This is not only a great day for Grimsley High School, it is a great day for Greensboro. For sports fans, there is a lot of pride knowing we have the best 4A football team in the state. Congratulations to everyone involved in helping Grimsley remain such a great place to learn and play sports. Coach Brown has done so much for the football program and it has paid off.

Happy Saturday!

Glow Vibe Golf

Sorry about the poor quality photo, but it shows you the idea of Glow Vibe Golf. A game was going strong last night at the Farm Course of the Greensboro Country Club. The weather was perfect and club members were out playing  with their own golf clubs and having a blast. The Greensboro Country Club supplied the course for their members and Glow Vibe set up all the lights and provided the LED light up golf balls. Golfers were out cheering and having a great time. They had special pathways set up, fairly close to the holes.

Glow Vibe Golf was established in 2014 and is primarily based in Columbia, SC. Top Golf makes golfing an option even in inclement weather. Glow Vibe Golf makes golfing possible after dark. Greensboro is a great golf town. We'd imagine this opportunity to golf at night is a hit here, not just at private courses. Those playing last night sure seemed to be having fun.  Laughter filled the air.

Happy Friday!

Topgolf Greensboro

Topgolf Greensboro opened Friday, September 13, 2004. It is their fourth facility in North Carolina. Topgolf bills itself as an entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range. Food and drink are available and they encourage parties and events. As seen in the above photo, players hit from a covered area into an open green. If we counted correctly, there are 64 climate-controlled bays. People at all skill levels can play and the high-tech balls score themselves. Prices range from $28- $56 per hour per bay, depending on time and day of the week. Each bay can accommodate up to six players.  Tuesday is half-price day!

The venue is highly visible from I-40 between Guilford College and Bridford Parkway.  As we left Topgolf yesterday, we gained considerable patience waiting to turn left out of the parking lot onto Guilford College Road. We got a chuckle getting on I-40 east and noticing that exit 218-A leads to Pinehurst, making it possible to practice at Topgolf in the morning and head to Pinehurst for an afternoon tee time. Indeed, North Carolina ia a paradise for golfers. Topgolf should do well here.

Happy Monday- and start planning your 6-some for half-price Tuesday tomorrow.

Wyndham, Gillespie and the Golfer

Yesterday, we featured the above mural at the Gillespie Golf Course.  We love today's angle of the photo of the mural of the Greensboro Six. It leads the eye to one of the golfers who was out playing the 9-hole course on Tuesday. The photo, from this orientation,  shows how well the course is maintained. In learning more about the mural and the Wyndham tournament, we finally made the connection between the mural and Wyndham; which, starting today and until August 11th,  will be held at the Sedgefield Country Club.

Wyndham Rewards is a program associated with the Wyndham Golf Resorts and they partnered with First Tee- Central Carolina to make this mural and the documentary about it a reality. The project was announced last year at the 84th Wyndham Championship. So as we watch people playing the championship, know that the company associated with it has done this good deed for the community. As you may have heard, fans aren't allowed to attend today due to the threat of bad weather. Let's hope the golfers are safe and the weather permits the tournament to go on. We would like to thank Wyndham Rewards for the mural and love the fact that Greensboro cares about its Civil Rights history. May the Gillespie Golf Course, First Tee- Central Carolina, and the Wyndham all continue to be a part of Greensboro for a very long time.

Happy Thursday!

Gillespie Golf Course History & Mural

Yesterday, we had a chance to visit Gillespie Golf Course in Southeast Greensboro, specifically at 306 Florida Street. The course has so much history, we know we can't do it justice in one post. The recently painted mural captures so much of the history of the course.  It is a must-see to learn civil rights history in Greensboro. This 104-acre course opened in 1941. The 9-hole course was built by Perry Maxwell at a time when only whites could play there.  On December 7, 1955, five years before the Sit-In by the Greensboro Four, six black men teed-up at the course.  These six men were charged with trespassing and spent 15 days in jail. Their act of civil disobedience helped pave the way for integration in the 1960's. The mural and an historic marker honor the men. Greensboro condemned the course and did not open it for seven years.*

Dr. George Simkins Jr. was a local dentist who was instrumental in getting the course integrated and for advancing the causes of social justice and civil rights in Greensboro (and beyond).  In 2018, "Our State Magazine" published a wonderful article about the Gillespie Golf Course and the Greensboro Six (see HERE). The above photo doesn't begin to do the mural justice. Close up, the colors are so vibrant. The mural also lists the name of the Greensboro Six: Dr. George Simkins Jr., Phillip Cooke, Joseph Student, Samuel Murray, Elijah Herring, and Leon Wolfe- the sepia figures on the right side of the mural. Vincent Ballentine of Brooklyn created the mural. It was commissioned by Wyndham Rewards. See the QR code with your iPhone camera to learn even more. about the mural, the history and the upcoming documentary.

 

*reference and more information HERE.

Summer Camps at UNCG

Last week, we featured the Governor's School Program, hosted on the Greensboro College campus. Today's photo features the soccer camps at UNCG. UNCG holds camps for K-12 students all summer long. Topics range from sports and e-sports to camps for children with autism to STEM to academic camps. Last week was a big week for soccer camps. It looked like students os all ages were participating. The above photo was taken on the soccer field at the corner of Spring Garden Street and Josephine Boyd. The baseball stadium was also full of soccer players.

These camps are wonderful on so many levels. First, young athletes, some of whom will be first generation college students, get to learn first-hand about life on college campuses. They even get to eat in the cafeteria- making food choices that their parents may or may not approve of. They have a structured routine and deepen their skills and knowledge of the theme of the camp.  We are lucky to be in a city with so many universities, colleges, and community colleges. If you have pre-collegiate children in your life, you should simply pick a topic they are interested in and see which institution of higher education offers summer programs. The time to plan for next year is now.  The first day for high school students is August 26th. The fall semester for UNCG begins August 12th. So, camps will be winding down... summer, too.

Happy Tuesday!

Night Kayaking

The photo is blurry, but you can get this idea that night kayaking on Lake Brandt is fun! Last night was not very well attended because of the late afternoon storm. However, by the time 8:00 p.m. rolled around, the weather was perfect for being on the lake. Greensboro Parks and Rec. have so many events scheduled to get us outdoors (see here). Learn about night kayaking on Lake Brandt and Higgins (here). At night kayaking (or paddling), participants can get on the water at 8:00 p.m. and must be back on shore by 9:45 p.m.  You can bring your own kayak and launch for $8 or rent and pay from $15- 30 depending on what you use. People are very social. You can come alone, or bring a friend. Some people were in 'paddle quickly" mode; others made the event a leisurely date night with music and food. We saw one couple listening to music and holding hands not too far from the launch area. It was so sweet.

It is the weekend and all the lakes will be open with plenty of options. Get outdoors! Happy Friday!

Easy Rider! Relaxed Tuesday Ride Series

Tonight is the night for the Easy Rider! Relaxed Tuesday Ride Series. The above photo was taken last week on the delightful ride partially through UNCG, partially on the  Greenway, and partially through neighborhoods. Here is the group under the bridge,  at Spring Garden Street. Behind the bicyclists, a group was practicing yoga. It is so wonderful to see these community resources being put to good use. 

If you are interested in the ride, arrive at Cycles de ORO on Battleground and Hill Street at 6:00 pm to get registered, meet others, and have time to go into the bike shop to purchase a helmet, spare inner tube or anything else you might need to be road safe. You must partake in the 6:15 pre-ride briefing and the ride departs promptly at 6:30. It returns to Cycles for your parking convenience and to likely get an ice-cream treat from Dale, the owner of the shop.  The rides are under 10 miles and the route changes week-to-week.  This is a great way to fall in love with cycling or to participate in a ride where you actually have time to talk to people! 

Happy Tuesday and summer fun!

Community Swim Association

Last night was night five of five for the dual meets at the Community Swim Association. The above photo features the Lake Jeanette pool on Bass Chapel Road, where the club was hosting the Friendly Frogs. The photo features  a heat of boys competing in the butterfly stroke. It was just after 8:00 p.m. and the meet was still going strong. Community swim in Greensboro dates back to 1958 and over the last 66 years has grown from 150 kids from 5-18 years old competing to over 2,000 in 2024. It is a sport that brings people together and all swimmers get to compete. For the year-round swimmers, this is a way to stay in shape and build relationships with other members of their swim club. For the summer swimmers, it is a way to have a summer routine that includes discipline, physical fitness, and camaraderie. While the top tier swimmers want to win and break records, everyone takes great pride is getting personal best times.

This weekend, all CSA teams will come to the Greensboro Aquatic Center (GAC)  for City Meet, held there since 2016 (see photos from the first GAC meet HERE). Prior to 2016, City Meet for the Community Swim Association was held at Lindley Park Pool (see HERE).  While there was something special about those meets at Lindley Park Pool, GAC has a reputation of being one of the finest facilities in the nation. There is something really special about being in a pool where prestigious national events are held. We are confident that Lake Jeanette Lightning and Friendly Frogs will both fare will.  Good luck to all 20 teams and all 2,000+ swimmers.  If you have never been to GAC, head there this weekend to be a spectator in this fun, Greensboro tradition.

Happy Wednesday!

LeBauer Park: Lawn Service Kiosk

Here is another view of LeBauer Park on Thursday evening. This view is at Lawn Service by Little Brother Brewing. It is one of  two permanent kiosks at the park. It features a full-service coffee bar, beer, ciders, wine, and more. Baked goods and ice cream are also available At least in the summer, they are open Monday-Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. which means people can get their morning coffee and stop by for happy hour after work. They also sponsor the Thursday bike ride and music events. It is a good "third space," that is a place other than home and work to meet up with friends and other people who like to be outdoors.

In the background, you see the 90' sculptural net by Janet Echelman (read more in Our State Magazine HERE). According to this Jeri Rowe, LeBauer Park hosts about 450 public events and 50 concerts.  We imagine that number increases every year. If someone doesn't know where to meet a friend, they can always suggest in the center of the Echelman net, at the sit down bar at Lawn Service, on the bit letters that read LEBAUER PARK to name a few options.

Happy Saturday! Can you believe we're half way through June?

Softball in Greensboro

With so many colleges and universities in Guilford County, there are many opportunities to see great sporting events, and often free. This past Saturday, we enjoyed watching the softball game between UNCG Spartans and the Chattanooga Mocs. Unfortunately, UNCG lost but it was a nice day and there were some good plays. We also enjoyed pitchers warming up, standing just above them. The snaps and the energy of the pitch add excitement to the game. It is so fun to watch. We have all levels of play in Greensboro. If you know someone interested in playing softball, take them out to a ballgame. Whether young children or adults, players appreciate playing with a crowd. Greensboro Parks and Recreation is a great place for adults to start- to play or to watch.

Happy Thursday!

Kickball in S. Carolyn Allen Park

Spring is the time of year when outdoor sports begin sprouting up everywhere. Karen S. Allen Park and Athletic Complex is one of those spaces. It is located at 3610 Drawbridge Parkway near Wellspring Retirement Community and it is home to many different sports. Carolyn Allen Park is part of the Greensboro Parks & Recreation network. Right now, adult kickball is in full swing. The above photo was taken last night and Tuesday is a night for competitive-recreational kickball, as is Wednesday. Monday is the night for beginner-recreational. The atmosphere is family friendly, as is the kickball program. The teams are also co-ed. 

If you watch one of their kickball games, you will find yourself being transported back to middle school and memories will likely surface. It may even inspire you to want to play kickball. The ages range from 18 to senior citizens. Often, there are people available to help you learn how to get started in the sport. And once you are out on the field, you will start having so much fun, you won't even realizing you are exercising. They'll be out again tonight.

Happy Wednesday!

Robert Linville's PRECISION GOLF SCHOOL

Robert Linville has been a golf instructor for over 35 years. He is nationally recognized and respected as one of the top instructors. As a golfer, his roots run deep in Greensboro. In 1976- 1980, he was an All-American at Guilford College. He co-founded Precision Golf School, with Rodney Morrow, in 1989. At first, it was located in a strip-mall off of Friendly Avenue. The school now has five locations, and the one above is at Bur-Mil Park.* Bur-Mil Park is a great place to learn to golf, not only because of the instruction available there, but also because there is a driving range. They also have an 18-hole golf course.

Mr. Linville was also co-head pro at Forest Oaks Country club and he coached the Greensboro College Pride to much recognition, several seasons as top finishers, and an NCAA Division III Championship in 2000. In the above photo, both the man instructing (facing the camera) and his student were concentrating on the lesson, as we looked on. The view from behind the camera was filled with people hitting buckets of balls practicing their teeing off. Greensboro is a fantastic golf city with green fees at all price points. If you want to get back into golf, Bur-Mil is open to the public and does not disappoint.

Happy Thursday!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

Softball Season: Bring On the Spring Sports!

The spring sports season is well underway and softball is the favorite of many. The above photo shows the UNCG women's softball team practicing on their home field at the corner of Walker Avenue and Josephine Boyd. Today, the Spartans are on the road at Elon University. The season will run into early May. The next home game will be Sunday, March 3rd at 1:00 pm in this stadium. If you are available, head out to watch the team, as the University is on Spring Break and so the players are working hard turning a time when many of their classmates are off to exotic beaches. This $3,000,000 stadium was completed in 2006 and is a nice place to watch a game. In 2003, Elon was ranked as a top North Carolina D1 school for softball*, so this game should be fun to watch.

We've had some rainy days this week, which also bring out some blue skies. This weekend should be nice, so whether you head to Elon to see a game or come to Spartan stadium on Sunday, the weather should be nice. If you know of teens in the area who play softball, this is the perfect place for them to see some great playing.  Whatever you decide to do this weekend, may you enjoy yourself.

Happy Saturday!

*reference.

Ice Skating in Downtown Greensboro

For ice skating in Greensboro, you have two choices. For outdoor skating, Piedmont Winterfest is your best bet. It is located between LeBauer Park and Center City Park. Skaters of all abilities are welcome. It will be there until December 28th, at which time, just like Frosty the Snowman, it will "melt". An indoor option for skating is the Ice House, located between Bridford Parkway and West Wendover Avenue. The Greensboro Ice House opened in the fall of 1997. It is hard to believe it has been there for 26 years. The Greensboro Ice House does it all, from giving lessons to serving as a venue for birthday parties to having ice for hockey games, figure skating, and more. Historically, Greensboro has been more of a roller skating town than an ice skating one; however, these two venues are a great way to get children acclimated to the sport. As you can see in the above photo, children around our there trying their hardest. See you on the rink!

Happy Friday! 

North Carolina Rowing Center

The North Carolina Rowing Center offers rowing for all ages from middle school 7th graders to adults. They are located in Greensboro and the above photo was taken yesterday at Lake Higgins where they practice. Fall is time for distance rowing and at regattas, the distance if 5,000 meters, as opposed to 2,000 meters in the spring. Here we see Pearl helping with navigation as Scott, one of the coaches, is guiding the launch (the coaching boat) to shore. Rowers were in single, double and quad shells sculling (using oars on both sides). The focus of the North Carolina Rowing Center is to develop skills and technique, with the option to compete against other teams in regattas in the southeast.

As we enjoy this last week of summer, walking around Lake Higgins and seeing the lake being used by all of these athletes was so lovely. There is absolutely no time for "screen time" when rowing. Soon, these teammates will be lucky enough to watch the fall leaves change from the water and, with all of the deciduous treen around Lake Higgins, the view from the water will be glorious. You can already see a hint of color change; just wait until October!

Happy Thursday!

 

Monday Night Kickball League for Beginners

When some people hear the words "fall ball", the first thing they think of is baseball. However, kickball is gaining in popularity. The sportl was invented in the United States in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the beginning of the 20th century. It was conceptualized as a safe way to teach children the basics of baseball.*  The above photo features a kickball game in progress at Carolyn Allen Park at 2610 Drawbridge Parkway, near Kernodle Middle School and Well-Spring Retirement Community. It is the co-ed, Monday league for beginners. The league is one of the many programs of the Greensboro Parks & Recreation. In addition to the beginners program,  there are Tuesday and Wednesday competitive recreational, kickball leagues. 

While we were watching, the black team, Burn Beasts, were competing against the red team, Wasted Potential. Almost all of the team names are equally clever: Natural Born Kickers, Justice Served, Brady Bunch, Attractive Nuisance, and more. Players must be at least 18 years of age and follow rules of good sportsmanship. Participants looked like they were having fun and coaches were helping newer players learn their positions. Kickball has six basic skills: Kicking, throwing, catching, fielding, pitching, and running. Greensboro is so lucky to have a great network of parks and a Parks & Recreation Department that designs programs, like kickball, to bring people together. Head up to Carolyn Allen Park on Monday evening if you want to learn more. The site supervisor was a big help to us!

Happy Tuesday!

* read about the history of kickball HERE.

Golf Season Is Upon Us

In Greensboro, North Carolina, golf can be a year-round sport*. There is, however, seasonality given it is an outdoor sport and the weather must be conducive to playing a round. It can't be too wet, or the turf and greens can get damaged. It can't be cold or golfers have trouble with their swing. There are times of the year when certain courses are dormant because they need to be repaired. In Greensboro, the answer to when golf can be played is, "it depends." For sure, yesterday was a nice day for playing golf it was sunny but not too hot.

The above photo was taken at the The Farm Course of the Greensboro Country Club. We love to walk on all of those roads off Carlson Dairy. They are very walkable and it is fun to see golfers in the distance playing golf. Greensboro and Guilford County have golf options at all price points and public as well as private. Courses really look nice this time of year, before it starts getting too hot. Hope to see you out there playing.

Happy Tuesday!

 

*See this article telling when golf season begins by state.

PTI Airport: Run on the Runway!

The Piedmont Triad International Airport is such and expansive space and is especially beautiful on a sunny day. Above is a photo we took recently, taxiing into the gate at the Delta end of the airport. This 3,770 acre "campus" in western Guilford County. The airport got its start in 1927, with only 112 acres. My has it grown since the early days.* If you aren't scheduled to travel soon but want to get a good look at the runway, and you like to run, consider signing up to run in the PTI 5K/10K/one mile event on the runway.

PTI Run on the Runway will be held on Saturday, March 25th, starting promptly at 9:00 am. The event is open not only to runners, but also walkers, and is wheelchair and baby stroller friendly. The fundraiser "Walk to Win Against Hunger" will also be held at the same time. There is also a "Kids Dash" that starts about 40 minutes later (and is free). If you aren't a runner, perhaps you will want to volunteer to help. Run on the Runway is such a great way to build community, and to see the airport firsthand. Just think, the next time you fly from there, you can have bragging rights with the person sitting next to you, informing them that you actually ran on the runway!

Happy Wednesday, and... Beware of the Ides of March!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

Eugene Street

Have you driven on Eugene Street lately? It has changed so much. This is the part between Friendly Avenue and Smith Street, with the baseball stadium on the left and the Carroll Bellemeade development on North Eugene. It is hard to believe the baseball stadium has been there since 2005. What was originally First Horizon Park is now First National Bank Field. The stadium can accommodate 7,499 guests. The people who live in the apartments on Eugene and Smith Streets can just walk to games. Between the baseball stadium and Tanger Center, options for this part of town have expanded significantly over the last 18 years. 

You can get some great sunsets from the apartments on Eugene. We're betting you can see some great baseball from many of those apartments. The next home game for the Greensboro Grasshoppers will be April 23. It would be well worth your investment in time and money to experience a baseball game. We hope to see you in the stands, or strolling along Elm Street, en route.

Happy Thursday!

Friday Night, High School Basketball; Page vs. Grimsley

If you ever looking for something fun to do on a Friday night, consider going to a high school basketball game. It is an inter-generational night of fun. Last night, we attended the Page-Grimsley girls' basketball game at Page High School on Alma Pinnix Drive. The above photo shows the Grimsley Whirlies up against the Page Pirates. The Pirates won this conference game; it was a fun game to watch, as all of the players played their hearts out. Both teams had some stand-out players, but Page had the upper hand throughout the game. The final score was 61-28.

After the girls team played, the guys were up next. The stands  of the Mac Morris Gymnasium were full. It was a night well spent and it always makes us proud to see teens having good, clean fun!!!

Happy Saturday!

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.