Greensboro Daily Photo

Train on Tracks

Yesterday afternoon, we were fascinated to watch a freight train stopped at South Elm Street for at least an hour. We asked a young man who was waiting and photographing it. He said he had been waiting for 50 minutes and that usually a stopped train indicates another one is on the track. He appeared to be quite a train aficionado. Greensboro is a great city for train lovers. We have both freight and passenger trains. As a matter of fact Greensboro got its nickname, Gate City, for being a gateway rail city. Here is a North Carolina rail map showing which freight and passenger trains travel through Greensboro.  

The above view is of Hamburger Square. Notice how nice the train trestle looks. The green and white paint makes it a stand out. Fortunately, with this underpass, pedestrians and cars can move through Elm Street, instead of having to wait for trains. People who work downtown probably know the train schedule by heart!

Happy Thursday, from the Gate City!

Spring Has Spring on Oak Street

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

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

Happy Thursday!

901 Spring Garden Street: High on a Hill in College Hill

901 Spring Garden Street looked absolutely spectacular on Sunday afternoon when the air was cold but the sunshine was glorious. If you have been around for a while, you likely remember the days in the early 1990s when Mary Garvey had her shop here (The Clothesline). Mary had a talent for finding clothing for college students and faculty. You never knew what you would find there, or who you would find shopping there. Next, Adelaide's Vintage was there- with more emphasis on home goods.

Fast forward to now and Vanderveen Photographers have a studio there.  As they say on their website, "Becky and Bert Vanderveen have been together in life and photography since 1999, capturing art, beautiful moments and dynamic events along the way." Both have degrees from UNCG and their studio is only a block from the Weatherspoon Art Gallery. It seems like 901 Spring Garden would be perfect for a studio: good lighting, conveniently located, and off street parking. We hope to get to interview them sometime and to get a peek inside and see exactly how they have transformed the space. Just look at how well appointed that corner view is and how that white brick and fence sparkle of spring's sunshine. Does anyone know the original use of this building, built in 1961?

Happy Wednesday!

Full Moon 0n Westover Terrace

Evenings have been so lovely in Greensboro this week. The above photo was taken when we were in "West End" getting food at Wylie's Gourmet- from their parking lot. As we sat in the car, looking east, we noticed just how lovely the lighting at twilight was. While the moon was full, it doesn't show up very will in the photo. Regardless, it helps illuminate the sky. The cement curb, framing the parking lot, adds contrast and yet another line in the photograph.

Spring has definitely sprung in Greensboro. As you can in the trees on the left, deciduous trees have begun to regain their leaves. While telephone poles detect from photos, sometimes, if you build them into the photo, they can actually enhance a view. They sure did help draw in the eye and focal point in the above photo.

Happy Thursday!

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

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

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

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

Happy Tuesday!

 

Heavenly Buffaloes

Heavenly Buffaloes is a brick and mortar restaurant at 356 South Elm Street. However, they also have a truck that always catches our attention, especially when we see it parked on W. McGee Street downtown. Heavenly Buffaloes got their start in Durham, NC in 2014, but now also has locations in Chapel Hill and Greensboro. They pride themselves on using high quality ingredients, local and for the chicken wings, antibiotic free. They also have vegan (soy nugget) wings, made from a recipe they perfected over a year. They offer many flavors of sauce and levels of heat. 

It is nice to see a local (well, down the road) business doing well and, who knows, they could keep growing and expand to other states, like Biscuitville and Cook Out. Sundays- Tuesdays, HB is only open until 10:00 pm, but other nights until midnight. It is always nice to be able to grab a late night snack. We're always looking for new places to get a quick bite to eat when downtown. 

Happy Thursday! 

Green & West Lindsay Streets

Spring 2023 has sprung early in Greensboro this year. The above photo was taken on Sunday, February 26th at the corner of West Lindsay and North Greene Street. You can see Bradford Pears blossoming on the northwest corner. From this view, with three men crossing the street, the intersection looks vast. Although it isn't so noticeable in the photo, this is a part of town that has changed significantly over the recent years. It is near the greenway; is is near the building where the Smith Street Diner was housed; several new restaurants have opened in this northwest corridor and the cleaners that was on Paisley Street has closed and something new is being built. Of course the Tanger Center for Performing Arts is a great addition to this part of town. Finally, all the new housing options make this a part of town where you can walk to many amenities.

Remaining constant in this area is the trifecta of churches in the area: Trinity Episcopal, First Presbyterian, and  St. Benedict Catholic Church. And thinking of "faith" we want to give a shout out to our faithful reader Ginny S. in Madison, Wisconsin who has no real associations with Greensboro, but reads diligently and sends private comments from time to time. Knowing you all are reading sustains us.

Happy Tuesday! Tomorrow is March 1st!

Christ Is the Way

The "Christ is the Way" or "Jesucristo es el camino" bus belongs to Mr. Sinai Church/"Iglesia Monte Sinai." It is located at 4711-A  West Gate City Boulevard, just south of Groometown Road. It ia a Pentecostal Church. The brick building is a strip mall with another church beside it and some empty store fronts. The bus looks freshly painted with clear lettering.

On the front, the signage above the windshield just says JESUCRISTO. Likely, the bus brings to church for services. They meet on Saturday at 7:00 pm and Sunday at 10:00 am. They also have Tuesday and Thursday services at 7:00 pm. These start up churches often start out in humble spaces and grow into nice, stand-alone buildings. It was a lovely day full of sunshine yesterday and we only noticed the church because of the beautiful, freshly painted church. If you are driving past, it is impossible not to notice it.

Happy Sunday!

1633 Willomore Street

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

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

What will you be doing this weekend?  Happy Friday!

 

Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church

Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church is located at 3100 Creek Ridge Road, at the intersection with Four Seasons Boulevard. It is between Four Seasons Mall and Sedgefield, on the eastern edge of the Lamrocton neighborhood in Greensboro. Did you even know of this neighborhood? We didn't! It is amazing what one can learn from a good map.* If our source is correct, Lamrocton  is a diverse neighborhood of Danish, Sub-Saharan African, and Vietnamese residents. It also reports having many college students and same-sex couples. 

We drove past Mt. Tabor UMC serendipitously when we took exit 218A instead of B in south Greensboro. While the church doesn't appear to have a website, they do have a Facebook page. According to the cornerstone, the church was rebuilt by Rev. P.I. Wells in 1953, but is doesn't say when the original church was built. There is a fellowship building attached to the side of the church. It was added on in 1965. The church participates in community events like Crop Hunger Walk, and they also host their own events, like fish fries.  Behind the church is a cemetery. In Christian tradition, Mt. Tabor is the site of the transfiguration of Jesus. 

We hope Rev. Carson and his congregation have a great service today and that your Sunday is everything you hoped it would be.

 

*read more about Lamrocton, here. 

Winter Trees

Today's photo comes from our adventure exploring the eastern end of the county; the place where you are on a country road exploring and not sure if you are in Whitsett, Gibsonville, or even across the Alamance County line into Elon. The outbuilding above is one of about nine on a property at the corner of Frieden Church Road and Sweeetgum Road. Every one of the outbuildings is old, but has signs of being loved. Above, you see a cross and an American flag. In one, there are life-size pigs, maybe made of plaster or plastic. Beside another, there is a vintage truck. The two bedroom one bath house, built in 1930, is on 9.3 acres of property. This family has a little slice of paradise. As land gets sold off around them, we hope they hold on and keep all of their mature trees. One of our regular, long-time readers commented how much she likes trees in winter. We do, too!  These trees, in their dormant state and towering over the outbuilding with the hand-hewn logs, are breathtaking. The winter, low to the horizon sun, adds so much to the shading of the trees.

Happy Tuesday! Are you ready for February tomorrow?

 

On North Battleground and Around the City

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

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

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

Honk if you love exploring. Happy Thursday!

Ebenezer Baptist in the Yarn Bombed Yard

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

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

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

Highway 61 in Eastern Guilford County

On our jaunt through through east Greensboro and eastern Guilford County last weekend, we spent some time on Highway 61. The above photo was taken on the section between Burlington Road (east Wenedover, Highway 70) and I 40. The photo was taken in front of a road with a few houses on it. The lots were large and the construction appeared to be new. Due to recent rains, this area looked like it had recently filled with water. With the sun low to the horizon and the shadows long, the scenery was beautiful. It reminded us of a bald cypress swamp. We were struck by how clean the water was. The bed of leaves added texture to the edge of the water. 

If you are ever looking for a Sunday drive, Highway 61 extends from Highway 150 up near Browns Summit, through Whitsett, down below I-40 to Highway 62. There are homes all along the way and the road has gotten busier over the last decade. It is the main north-south highway in eastern Guilford County. It is considered a farm to market highway, historically connecting farmers to nearby markets. It was established in 1930. The internet can be such a wonderful thing. There is a Wikipedia entry for Highway 61. It is short, but it provides provenance for the road (see HERE). It would be special if people who lived along the road and who knew the history of the area would add to the entry. 

Happy Friday, explore day! Where should we go next?

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!

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management & Building

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, operated by Bank of America, is located at 800 Green Valley Road at the intersection of Lendew Street. Our State Magazine, and other businesses, are also located in the building. The building is a 5-story, class A office building. It was built in 2001 on a 6.62 acre lot. Already over 20 years old, the building seems to be aging well and is attention catching with all of those glass windows, especially when the sun is setting.

In the area near Green Valley Road between Westover Terrace and Benjamin Parkway , and even down to Friendly Avenue, is a part of town that really feels like an office park. The area is only about 10 miles from the airport. It looks like there is a good view from the top. Maybe we can try to  get up there. Have you been up on the 5th floor? That reminds us, we still haven't given up on the dream of getting to the top of the Lincoln Financial Group building. That has to be a great view! Maybe 2023 will be the year.

Happy Friday 13th! If you are working, at 800 Green Valley or elsewhere, we hope you have a three-day weekend.

Lovely Green Home at 806 Fairmont Street

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

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

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

Bicycling in Greensboro

With New Year's resolutions, the local gyms have been busy and with the nice weather, people have been out running, walking, and bicycling. Last night, we were enjoying some urban walking downtown and saw many people out on their bicycles. Just after sunset, the weather was warm and damp, but not raining; perfect for being outside. This was one group we noticed coming through Hamburger Square. There were others on bicycles downtown.  If you notice, there was someone in front of Natty Greene's.

As Greensboro gets more bike lanes and greenway miles, the city is becoming more bike friendly; bicycling, as a sport and as  a mode of transportation, appears to be increasing. If you want to learn more about riding, local bike shops are a great place to start. Find a bike shop with the kind of cycling you like to do and start asking questions, keep your gear working well, and find opportunities for group rides. Greensboro has over 90 miles of trails and greenway.  Here is trail and greenway information in Greensboro.  Here is a list of traffic laws applicable to NC bicyclists. 

Happy Wednesday! 

 

 

Christmas Spirit at 1012 Jefferson

If you've driven down Jefferson Road, between Hobbs Road and Friendly Avenue, you've probably noticed there is quite a bit of Christmas spirit there. Christmas inflatables are out in full force, looking especially lovely at night. The above scene is at the corner of Jefferson and Somerset Place, a home that keeps this scene inflated, even during the day. The first thing you notice is the quartet of doggies greeting you with a candy cane. With this cold weather we've been having, we're awfully glad these puppies are not real. Oh, but in the world of Christmas, they are real to all who believe.

The above house was built in 1977 on a half acre lot, and if realtor.com is correct, has had the same owners for the last 21 years. The owners have been bringing the community Christmas cheer for many of those years. With the house set back from the road, there is plenty of room to fill the lawn with decorations. Each year, we've really come to expect seeing a lot of decorations at Jefferson Gardens and Carriage Hills. This are is developing its niche in inflatables, something festive, but different from the round balls of light, up in the trees, so famous in Sunset Hills. Have a great Wednesday. Remember it is the winter solstice. After today, days will start getting longer, with more minutes of light, that is.

Downtown at Holliday Circle

This Friday is  First Friday and the Festival of Lights. Are you ready? Downtown is ready for us. The above photo is the General Nathanael Greene Statue at Holliday Circle- 405 South Greene Street. General Greene was a major general of the Continental Army in the American Revolutionary War and the person for whom Greensboro is named. The 22' tall bronze statue is on an 10' granite base.  Greensboro artist James Barnhill is the sculptor. It was dedicated on March 28, 2008. It was placed there as part of the Greensboro Bicentennial in that same year. *  Sculptor James Barnhill's work is featured prominently throughout Greensboro. He is a retired faculty member at NCA&T State University.  The round-about, Holliday Circle, is named for Keith A. Holliday who served our mayor from 1999 to 2007. So, this circle holds so much history for our city.

The photo was taken from the west, looking east, towards Hamburger Square. This historic area will be busy this Friday. Here is a list of holiday happenings in Downtown Greensboro. You won't want to miss these events. During COVID,  Downtown Greensboro (#DGSO) a local non-profit did a fabulous job of finding things to engage the community. Some of these events- like Tinsel Town- remain. Friday is on target to be beautiful weather. It is only Tuesday and we can hardly wait!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

Strolling Along Elm Street

Happy day before Thanksgiving. Downtown is starting to feel festive. Shoppers are visiting stores and galleries to find those special gifts. Warm cups of coffee taste so good on these cooler days. The above photo was taken in front of the Green Bean Coffee Shop on the 300 block of South Elm Street. This is such a dynamic part of Elm Street.

In seven days, it will be December. In nine, it will be time for the Festival of Lights. Just like the two identified guys in the photo who were walking at a very brisk pace, it seems like November has flown by. Those of us at Greensboro Daily Photo wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. The public school students of Greensboro have five days home with family. May you savor every moment of your time together.

Happy Wednesday!

The Big White House at 2700 Courtney Lane

This house at 2700 Courtney Lane is located at the corner of Wilton Drive, between New Irving Park and Brookwood Gardens. The three bedroom, three bathroom stick-built house was constructed in 1963 on 1/3 acre. We happened upon it one morning when we were out walking after stopping by the chicken dinner sale at Irving Park UMC. We were struck by how beautiful the house looks against the autumn foliage. The house is just a stone's throw away from Mendenhall Middle School, easy walking distance.

The house happens to be for sale and it is so special to know what a home looks like in the fall. This golden glow is pretty special, even though the leaves are past prime. Greensboro sure has some lovely neighborhoods and homes. Which Greensboro neighborhoods do you enjoy walking in? Today, in Greensboro, the temperature should rise to the mid 50ºs and it should be partly sunny. It just might be a good day to take in a walk.

Happy Wednesday! 

 

View from Hamburger Square

This is the view of West McGee Street from the middle of Hamburger Square- the intersection of McGee with South Elm Street. Just Be Gifts  is to the left, Little Brother Brewing to the right, and Natty Greene's Restaurant just behind us. At the Festival of Lights on Friday, December 2nd, there will be standing-room-only in this square. In the background, center of the photo, you can see Nathanael Greene statue- local artist Jim Barnhill was commissioned to sculpt it. To the right in the background is the newly opened Hampton Inn. We're betting it will sell out for the Festival of Lights/First Friday. Look at how convenient it is to downtown! Although the scene looks empty and gray in today's post, it will be crowded and full of color when everyone is downtown on December 2nd. 

If you have a teen learning to drive, McGee is a good place to practice. As you can see, the lanes are clearly marked, AND, if you look at the diamond-shaped, yellow warning sign on the right, there is a round about. Round-abouts are becoming more popular in Greensboro. It is a good idea to practice navigating them- with or without a novice driver!

Happy Tuesday! A big thank you Katja Brown who alerted us to the fact that today's post hadn't published!

1401 Mimosa Drive

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

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

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

A Lovely, Rainy Day in Glenwood

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

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

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

Leaves: Fall Foliage Peaking in Greensboro

Fall in Greensboro is so beautiful. The above trees are on the island between Westover Terrace and Lawndale/Battleground Avenue- across from IHOP and Hardees. Every year, we look forward to their beautiful show of color as the sun is setting. They remind us of how grateful we are to live in a city with a change of seasons and deciduous trees. If online predictions are correct, we've got about another week of good fall color. Usually by the beginning of November, color starts waning as we wait through winter for spring. Greensboro had a frost this past week which means persimmons should be more than ready. However, the upcoming week should be a beautiful fall week, with crisp mornings and warm afternoons.

Happy Sunday, and for those of you who like a spiritual message, especially on the Sabbath, Martin Luther said, "God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars."  Greensboro is proof positive that nature is a symbol of harmony and beauty.

 

Fall Stroll Along Elm Street

What do you do to relax? We love to stroll along Elm Street. We love to check in on a few businesses, see what conversations we can engage in, and engage in some serendipitous fun. Yesterday afternoon was an especially great time to be walking around. The air was crisp; sweater weather. Just Be has a fresh shipment of fair trade mittens and headbands. Design Archives has vintage sweaters and flannel out; Scuppernong has great books suggested. Jerusalem Market on Elm has great middle eastern food. These are only a few of the great stops downtown. Most of all, we love walking out of a store and, the very second before the eyes adjust, holding up the camera and snapping a photo. This is the shot we got yesterday in the south 300 block at Hamburger Square.

Downtown has some nice trees that are still holding on to their leaves. Have a stoll and see what you can uncover. Take a few photos for a memory. Have a great Thursday.

Suds and Duds

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

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

Happy Monday!

Horse Pen Creek Road

If you haven't driven on Horse Pen Creek Road (HPCR)  lately, you might not recognize the above scene. For about five years, traversing HPCR has involved dodging orange cones, navigating lanes that switched from morning to evening, and gravel and . The proposed roadwork was under study in 2008 and 2009, with much discussion in 2013 and now a completed project, nearly a decade later.*  Look how wide the road is now. The above photo features the easternmost point of HPCR, approaching Battleground Avenue.

At one time, HPCR was one lane in each direction. Now, at this intersection, there are five lanes with divided highway. Many parts of the road are four lane with curbs, gutters, bicycle lanes, and a raised median. The road looks so crisp, clean and fresh. zlanes are freshly painted and there are no potholes. May the road weather well; winter will be the real test. The white tower in the center of the photo frequently has dozens of buzzards perching on it. The tower also looks pretty against the blue sky. Give Horse Pen Creek a try and let us know what you think.

*City of Greensboro project description, HERE.

LOVE Gso

We love Downtown Greensboro and all of the great events that have been happening lately. We love to urban walk downtown and often off the beaten path. The above photo was taken on Eugene Street, as evidenced by the sign, as we were walking Washington Street east to South Elm. The artwork of the intertwined hands is by Frances P. from the Greensboro Day School. Many of the signal boxes for the traffic lights have these wrap with featuring artwork. They add so much visual interest. This public display of art gives the artist recognition. It also gives the pedestrians and people in cars a chance to notice and wonder what exactly the boxes contain. An internet search reveals that each box costs between $500-$1,000 for printing and installation. In some cities, the artist receives money. We aren't sure about Greensboro. 

Next time you are downtown, check out the art on these boxes. They are happy bursts of color waiting patiently at the street colors. That in addition to the fiberglass jeans, and the murals, add quite a bit of public art to the community. If you know Frances P., or her art teacher, tell her we love it and that it is featured on Greensboro Daily Photo. We'd love to feature the two of them next to the box. If you notice the "JP" building, now Lincoln Financial Group building is peeking out, just below the Eugene St. sign. When you see that building, you know you are Downtown Greensboro.

Happy Monday, Happy last week of September and first full week of fall.

Remembering September 11, 2001, 21 Years Later

Today is September 11th. May we all stop for a moment of silence in remembrance of all the lives lost on 9/11/2001. This is the site where, yesterday, fire fighters were going to lead a stair climb to replicate the equivalent of 73 flights of stairs, what the firefighters of New York City had to climb to get to the top of the World Trade Center. This photo was taken on Friday evening, before we learned that yesterday's event was cancelled due to inclement weather. It is not safe to climb cement stairs quickly in the rain. While firefighters do it all the time, it was not safe to have when open to community members. This car ramp, at the 220 North Greene Street side looks soul-stirring, in its emptiness with the green reflection. Perhaps, the solitude of this garage, this is the structure's equivalent of a moment of silence.

On September 07, Spectrum News published a very nice article on the anticipated stair climbing event which takes place annually (see HERE, article by Courtney Wallen). In the article, Lt. Holt Alcorn, who has been a local firefighter since 2001, reflects on the last two decades and the changes that have come about as a result of the 911 attacks. He also reminds us that young adults today either weren't born or were two young to recall the event first hand. Alcorn, was prepared to do the climb yesterday with a 26 pound airpack, full gear and hose to replicate the experience of the NYC firefighters who went into the World Trade Center that day. The article inspires us to want to participate next year. And to Lt. Alcorn, who is a lieutenant at the Pinecroft Sedgefield Fire Department, thank you for your to decades of service in Guilford County. May you and the nation ever experience anything so horrific again.

Construction on Elm Street at Bessemer Avenue

Elm street has has been getting a waterline replaced. They are also installing bicycle lanes. The goal for the city is to install 75 miles of bicycle lanes within five years. The end goal is to encourage more bicycle usage and to make it safer to ride a bike. On Elm Street, the footprint of the street will not change. The bike lanes will be installed without widening the road. Here is a map of the project. If you are out and about and if possible, it is a good idea to detour from the part of North Elm near Bessemer Avenue. Something about this photo evokes yesteryear. With the Access Greensboro public transportation and the wires above, it is as if one of the trolleys from yesteryear will be clinging along any minute.

Having just interviewed Mr. Spear for yesterday's post, we have newspapers on the mind. In preparing this post, the information we learned about the project was found on the website of the City of Greensboro. Maybe something was posted in the News & Record, but the city's site was the one we saw. It occurred to us that increasing, to get information, one has to have good search logic and go straight to the source, making all of us self-appointed journalists, of sorts. We miss all of the local news, slice-of-life, and features about the people of Greensboro that one gets from a true, community newspaper. 

Happy Wednesday, the start of the last week of August!!!

Post Tanger & Walking Around Downtown

The above photo features an unidentified couple leaving the Tanger Center on the evening that Rita Moreno spoke as part of the Guilford College Bryan series. They are walking on the southeast corner of the Tanger complex headed toward LeBauer Park. You can see the blue and pink Echelman sculpture hovering above the park. And, on that particular evening, there were still lots of people out in the park. This part of north Greensboro, around Tanger and the center city parks,  has been transformed. We predict there will be even more changes; perhaps food trucks and more late evening food options, especially for after events at Tanger. 

As for tonight, it has been said Thursday is the new Friday. If you want to get a jumpstart on the weekend, head downtown tonight for a meal or a beverage with a special person in your life. Another option will be to go hear Kendra Adachi speak about her book "The Lazy Genius Kitchen" at Scuppernong Books from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. It is kind of special having a New York Times bestselling author right here in Greensboro. If you want to get ready for the event, listen to Adachi's Lazy Genius podcast or website. Her book is available at Scuppernong and Just Be, where you can also get earrings made by Kendra's mom! Maybe we'll wear a pair tonight and see if she notices. Maybe she'll wear a pair and we will notice. 

Happy Thursday! Happy almost holiday weekend!

The Many Faces of McConnell Road

Based on yesterday's post, we had questions about the exact location of Doodad Farm. It is very near the location in the above photo, about a mile west. McConnell Road is one of those areas in Guilford County undergoing great change. New meets old; industrial meets country. Front right, you see a crumbling building that has seen better days. If you look to the left, you see the giant, warehouses; the new Coca Cola Consolidated Bottling Company, Vistar Distribution Center, and O'Reilly Auto Parts Distribution Center. Doodad Farm is a cozy property with a two story country house, renovated outbuildings, and land that doesn't hint at the industrial property just beyond the trees. It is hard to belief something so idyllic is located just beyond the warehouses. Also, if it is your first time there, it is hard to believe that when you blink, you will be at a farm.

On down the road from this scene is McConnell Road Baptist Church and some very nice, small country homes. On Sunday evening, church was meeting, people were on their porches and in their yards making sure their property looked all neat and tidy. We always have to be ready for change. It will be interesting to see what becomes of the above structure.

Happy Tuesday!

Kontoor Brands, Inc.

Kontoor Brands is the company that now owns Lee and Wrangler Jeans. Their head office is in Greensboro and they employ about 15,000 people. Their iconic rounded building is just down the street from the one you see today. However, they own the above building at 444 North Elm Street and its surrounding 1.44 acre lot. This building was built in 1969 and it is some pretty interesting architecture. When we posted on this building in 2011, Preston Earle* shared that "the building was built to house a regional branch of the federal agency that oversaw savings and loan banks." Eventually First Home Federal S&L took over the building. When buildings, as unique as the one above, are built, it is hard to imagine them for anything beyond their original purpose. 

This building really takes on a different character when the sun is out. It always looks like an extraterrestrial structure; however, on a sunny day like we had recently, the building looks really inviting. We wonder what they are using it for. Do you know?

Happy Wednesday!

*Preston Earle died in Greensboro in 2012. We really miss Preston's comments, as we love it when the community gets involved in helping us learn about our city.

The Roads Less Traveled: At the Intersection of Greene & Paisley

Happy Friday the 13th. Today's photo was taken early Wednesday evening at the corner of Greene and Paisley Street. We were walking from near Joymongers to LeBauer Park. The sky was so dramatic and the buildings had the special glow they get when the sun is low to the horizon. The shadows were long and the lighting spectacular. Can you find the one person walking along in the photo? Walking this way, it is always refreshing to see that Greensboro Music Company is still open. Also, Mr. Tire, formerly Goodyear, and Perry's Exxon (to the right in the photo) are all still going strong. So much has changed downtown, it is comforting to see that some things have remained the same. Today won't be as bright an sunny as it was on Wednesday, but it is still fun to head downtown and see what is happening. Since it is Friday, there will be a lot going on!

Hurray for the weekend! Hurray for vibrant skies and long shadows.

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!

Impending Storms on an Otherwise Lovely First Friday

Last night, the threat of impending storms kept the downtown, First Friday crowds light. However,  storm held off until about 9:00 pm and those who were out before then had a fabulous time. South Elm had a nice crowd at Artmongerz and Ambelside Gallery. Elm and Bain had an event. The above photo features one of the challenges of downtown. The trains roll through town fairly frequently. However, it is possible to go down and around and use the underpass if you are in a car or walking. The trains also add a charming element and are the reason Greensboro has the nickname "Gate City". We were the gateway east/west and north/south as trains passed through.

The above photo was at Hamburger Square at the point where the south 400 block changes over to the 500 block. You can see the Lincoln Financial Group building in the background. If you find the LFG building, you can always figure out where you are in the city. And, if you are stopped for a train, you know exactly where you are. The Smothers Building on the left (at 360 Elm Street) sure is looking pretty.

Happy Saturday! May it be everything you dreamed! If you get a chance take a stroll downtown!

Street Scene on South Elm Street

Today's photo is of South Elm and Lewis Streets, at the intersection between the 500 and 600 block. If you've been in this end of town lately, you've probably notices the Lee Wrangler mural on the side of the Lee Wrangler shop. Kontoor Brands opened this shop in the summer of 2021. This is a common area for block and music parties and it has really started attracting crowds with all of the businesses here. Seeing the woman on the right with her jeans made us realize that this mural would be a great place for a photo shoot. The blue, black, and brick colors are easy to work with, too. Finally, if traffic is light, those lines and angles on the street add a lot of visual interest. It is so easy to find inspiration downtown.

Tomorrow is First Friday in downtown Greensboro. Here is a list of a lot of the activities for the evening. There will be plenty to do all the way from the north end of Elm Street, around Tanger Center (including in the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street) all the way to South Elm and Gate City Boulevard. Start making plans, put on your best walking shoes, plan a few activities, and let serendipity take over from there. Happy Thursday, which is said to be the new Friday!

Elm & Bain

This photo, taken last week, is a new downtown Greensboro event and meeting space. It is the last business on the southwest corner of Elm Street, just north of Gate City Boulevard.  Formerly, it was the Blue Bell Plant. Just beyond the above building is the building that forms an "L" with it and says above the top, "Old Greensborough Gateway Center." As an example of the kinds of events they host is the May 11th fundraiser for the North Carolina Folk Festival. Is is called "Fold A'Fare" and is a culinary event offering samplings of global foods created by chefs in Greensboro. Tickets can be purchased at ncfolkfestival.com/folkafare. Even if you don't get tickets for that event, there will be plenty more to choose from. You could even host your own event there. How wonderful to have another event space in the community.

We love the old times look of the black and white photo, but you can tell by the cars that it is a current photo Happy Tuesday!