Julie-Luck's Blog

North Carolina has so much to offer.  The mountains, the beaches, and of course the famed Pork Chop Sandwich.  After living in the Piedmont for two years, I finally visited Mt. Airy to see Mayberry in person. 

Jennifer Sposato (my friend and FOX 8 producer) and I walked along Main street, window-shopped and toured the museum. Our final destination was The Snappy Lunch. 

What a great experience!  The restaurant's staff couldn't have been nicer and the pork chop sandwich did not disappoint.  It was huge!  The thick piece of tender pork is battered and fried and comes with chili, cole slaw, mustard, onion and tomato.. all for just $3.75.  Yummy!  Jen and I ate the whole thing.  If you never have tried one of these famous sandwiches, please take a trip to Andy Griffith's hometown.  You will get to meet Junior, the master at frying the pork, Charles Dowell, the owner and originator of the pork chop sandwich, and Mr. Dowell's lovely and hospitable wife, Mary.  Here are some photos I took of that special day!

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to buying stocking stuffers, I like to buy goods made in North Carolina.  For example, one year I purchased Moravian cookies produced in Winston-Salem and shipped them to my extended family in California.  Last year, I bought candles made by a Greensboro woman named Kelly Cutts.  My aunts/uncles/cousins loved them!

Since Christmas is coming, it's time to buy more Made in NC products.  I recently visited the Farmer's Market for some ideas.  Homemade soap?  Honey?  If you have a suggestion, please post it!  I'd appreciate your help. 

Like so many others in the Piedmont, I've had the privilege to witness the meteoric rise of Chris Daughtry.  Since American Idol is seen on FOX, WGHP follows the contestants closely. 

In September of 2005, FOX 8's Shannon Smith interviewed a 25 year old man and lead singer of a local band, Absent Element who auditioned for American Idol.  I met Chris back then in the early stages of the try-outs, not at a press conference but at a chance meeting at the airport.  My impression:  he was hip, friendly yet reserved, and humble.  I recall saying to him jokingly, "Don't forget about us little people."  Like most local supporters,  I had an inkling that he would go far in the American Idol competition.  Little did I know how successful he would become.

Fast forward to today.  His band, Daughtry, has been nominated for three American Music Awards.  His hit songs are regularly played on the radio.  Simply put, he has hit the Big Time.

Before I interviewed him for my story, I was a bit concerned.  Did the fame and fortune go to his head?  Had he become such a huge success, did he forget about his roots?  Did life as a rockstar jade him?  Did he transform into a stereotypical diva star? 

My worries were put at ease quickly.  Once photojournalist Tim Bateson and I were allowed past security,  Chris was waiting for us backstage at the Dorton Arena.  He immediately hugged me (like we were old friends), then we were shuffled off to a room to conduct the interview.

As you'll see in my story (and during the unedited interview), Chris hasn't developed an inflated ego and seems to have stayed grounded.  Sure, his life has changed drastically now that he's a successful recording artist .  But he's a just a guy who likes fast food, enjoys the precious moments of being a couch potato, and spends as much time with his family in Guilford County as possible.  What a relief!  He hasn't forgotten his roots.

Please watch my unedited interview with Chris.  He reveals when Daughtry will record their second album.  He also talks about the one thing he can't get enough of!  If the interview is a bit too long for your enjoyment, check back in a few days.  I'll give you the answers.

As the date of the free Daughtry Concert approaches, I have new information regarding the event scheduled for Friday, March 23 in downtown Greensboro.

What can I bring?  The city says to treat this event just like any other event held at the Greensboro Coliseum, except it will be held downtown.  Coolers, lawn chairs, video cameras,  food and beverages will not be permitted.  Concessions and beer will be sold.

Where do I park?  Parking is available in downtown Greensboro's several parking lots. Here is a link:   www.downtowngreensboro.net/parking.html

Overflow parking will also be available but shuttles will not be offered.  College students are encouraged to ride PART buses to the event.

What is the plan if it rains?  According to Chief Meteorologist Van Denton, the forecast for March 23rd looks promising.  The outlook is partly cloudy and a bit warm for the daytime.  In the evening, expect temperatures in the 50-60 degree range.  Keep in mind this forecast could change (I am writing this on 3/14).  

What about security?  45 police officers are assigned to the event with an additional 20 on standby.  In addition, the Greensboro Coliseum is providing 50 security guards.

When does the event begin?  Gates open at 7pm. 

Where is the stage?  Here is a link to a map of the block party:

http://www.greensborocoliseum.com/pdf/Daughtry_Venu
e_Map.pdf

Elm Street from Smothers Place to Washington Street will close at 4pm on March 23.  Cars parked in that section of the street will be towed, if they are not moved by the closing time.

Keep it tuned to FOX 8 as we will continue to update you on additional Daughtry concert information.

I hope to see you there!

To all Daughtry Fans:

I have received numerous emails from viewers asking for particulars regarding the upcoming free Daughtry concert, scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM Friday, March 23rd.  The concert will be held in the Hamburger Square area adjacent to Natty Greene's Pub.  The gates will open at 7:00 PM.  Here is an event map of the Block Party:

http://www.greensborocoliseum.com/pdf/Daughtry_Ven
ue_Map.pdf

People are asking me:  Where do I park?   Will there be shuttle buses available?  What is the back-up plan if it rains?  Can I bring along a lawn chair?

Answers:   No shuttles will be provided.  Downtown Greensboro is home to several parking garages.  Here's a link to public parking:

http://www.downtowngreensboro.net/parking.html<
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Regarding the other questions, more details and particulars should be available next week.  As soon as I receive the information from the city, I will pass them along to you.

Thank you for your patience.  -Julie

As we approach the beginning of 2007, many of us reflect on our lives and ponder what can be improved upon in the new year.

Common responses: lose weight, quit smoking, save more money... the list goes on.
My resolution happens to be the same as last year's goal: to take my vitamins every day.

Please tell me about your goal(s) for 2007, or do you think new years resolutions are silly?

If you don't, here are some tips to keep you on track:

Experts say aim low. If you expect too much, you may be doomed to fail. Tell your family and friends about your resolutions. They can help support you while you strive to achieve your goals. Reward yourself. Hey, we all need a treat and need positive reinforcement. And if you fail, don't give up. We are all human and make mistakes.

I hope to read your thoughts. Happy New Year!