Once again, the Sunset Hills neighborhood is aglow under the chicken-wire-covered balls of Christmas lights. The lights are literally shot and hoisted tens of feet into the air. They are very hard to photograph and the warmth of the colorful glow, felt as you walk through the streets, cannot be replicated in a photo. However, the above photo gives you an idea of how they look. Also, you can see an example of the many people who walk the neighborhood on any given night to experience the decorating. The neighborhood gained national attention and was featured on The Today Show because of their creativity in initiating this display. The whole venture started in the home of Jonathan and Anne Smith, whose daughter shared them an outdoor ornament she loved: a chicken wire ball, about the size of a volleyball, laced with Christmas lights. At the time, she was studying at the College of Art and Design at North Carolina State University and knew good design when she saw it. Her dad replicated the design, filling the trees in their yard with the decorations. The idea spread like Christmas cheer in the neighborhood and now, Ridgeway, Greenway, Madison Avenue have participation by at least 3/4 of the houses. Other streets participate as well.
On Saturday, December 10th will be the 11th annual 5K race through the neighborhood, billed as "The Greatest 5k(ish) in the History of the World." Be sure to bring food to donate to Second Harvest Food Bank. About 2,000 people walk or run and the donated food and money really helps feed people in need in Greensboro. We are a giving community and this Sunset Hills tradition is one fine example how a small idea can blossom into a community event with a service component. Even more lights have been added around the park this year. You won't want to miss it. If you do go out, remember to dress in festive garb and add some lights. Go with a group and you become part of the decorations!
Happy Tuesday!