Greensboro Daily Photo

Peck Elementary

Peck Elementary School is scheduled to open today. The original Clara J. Peck Elementary School has roots that date back to 1929. Ms. Peck was Greensboro's first public health nurse. The building was erected on a 37 acre lot. The old building still stands in front of the above state-of-the art K-8 school in the Glenwood neighborhood at the corner of Lovett and Florida Streets. The theme of the school is expeditionary learning which focuses on team groupings and learning that is interactive and collaborative.  Reading about the educational model is well worth your while (see HERE). 

The above photo only captures a snippet of the building that looks more like a community college campus than a K-8 public school.  The school is made possible by the bonds passed in Guilford County in 2020 and 2022. See HERE to get a better view of the school as a whole and hear from a teacher who is moved to tears talking about transitioning from the old to new facility and all it will mean to the students who attend.

Happy Monday and Happy First Day in the New School to all of the children who are scheduled to transition to the new facility.

HPU Christmas Display

Greensboro/Guilford County is so lucky to have 6 institutions of higher education-- IHEs  (Bennett College, Greensboro College, Guilford College, High Point University, NCA&T, and UNC Greensboro). While not in Greensboro, High Point University (HPU)  is just down the road and still in the same county. In an era when many IHEs are struggling with declining enrollments, High Point University continues to thrive, adding programs, majors, and buildings before our very eyes. They bill themselves as "the premier life skills university" and is ranked as "the nation's #1 best run college."  Located in the heart of High Point, home of Furniture Market, HPU focuses on majors directly related to the 21st century job market, and it is paying off. 

As a way of giving back to community, for a week at Christmas, they host a drive-through light show. It is a fabulous way to see the campus and to celebrate Christmas. The light show boasts more than 100,000 lights, 235 12'tall nutcrackers, a life-size Nativity scene, and the state's tallest Christmas tree, a whopping 70' tall.  Today, we're featuring the nativity scene on this, the 5th day of Christmas on the Advent calendar.

High Point University is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, that founded the then-college in 1924. Oh, how this university has grown over the last 100 years. They bill themselves as Christian by tradition and interfaith by vision. We are so glad we finally got to see the Christmas display. It is a fabulous way to tour the campus. Unfortunately, the light show is finished for the season. It will take a while to disassemble and be ready for spring semester. In the meantime, we're wondering where the 235 12' nutcrackers are stored for the year.

Happy Sunday!

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!

150 Trees Recently Planted at Bennett College

Do you see that young magnolia tree? It is one of 150 trees planted on the campus of Bennett College on November 2nd. In collaboration with with Greensboro Beautiful, volunteers planted these trees-- a combination of willow oaks, white oaks, cherry laurel, sugar maple, and southern magnolias. They were planted to help restore historic and native trees that have been lost over the years.  Bennett staff member, Dr. Anne Hayes, Executive Director of Global & Interdisciplinary Studies at Bennett,  coordinated the partnership with Greensboro Beautiful.  

Greensboro Beautiful is a 501 (c) 3 organization founded in 1968 with the purpose of conserving and enhancing the beauty and ecology of Greensboro. According to Christina Larson, Chair of Greensboro Beautiful's Executive Committee, there was actually enough space on the Bennett campus to plant over 200 trees; however, 150 seemed very special since this is the 150th anniversary of the founding of this historically black college for women in east Greensboro. Current Bennett students should take their photo with these trees, return to Founders Weekends in the future and monitor how much the trees have grown. They can show their children and grandchildren their photos with the trees over the decades.  Bennett College is a small, liberal arts college that provides students with many special experiences such as the tree planting, interaction with Fulbright scholars, and the She Wellness Pods we wrote about last week.  By the way, the green container is the back of the wellness pods.

Happy Wednesday, dear readers!

Veterans Day 2024

Happy Veterans Day 2024. This year's  parade was held on Saturday, November 9th, mostly on North Elm Street, marching south and turning onto East Market Street. The above photo is of the Dudley High School Marching Band of Thunder (MBOT), as they  turned onto East Market Street, near the end of the parade route. The band adheres to a strict practice regimen which includes a dress code. The daily practices are mandatory.   All of the hard work and practice pays off as the band sounds and looks great. The band performs with show style movement and military-style operations-- evidenced by their moves such as about-facing, right flanks, and standing at attention. In addition to musicians, the band has a drum major in front and dancers, the Pantherettes, in the back. If you missed Dudley High School MBOT on Saturday,  they will be back for the December 7th Holiday Parade, downtown Greensboro from 12:00 noon- 2:00 pm. In the background, you can see the Lincoln Financial Group (formerly JP) building in the background, anchoring today's photo in Greensboro. 

On a more somber note, on Veterans Day 2021, we featured Tech Sergeant Albert Lochra (see HERE). This is Greensboro's second Veterans Day without him, as he died on July 1, 2023. He was loved by many in the Greensboro community (obituary HERE). With the sadness of the passing of another one of our remaining WWII veterans, we are reminded of the youthfulness and vitality of high school students today. The cycle of life continues as the Dudley students march on. Let's all do something to honor our veterans today. We are forever grateful for the day we interviewed Mr. Lochra and are on the lookout for our next veteran interviewee.

 

 

Another View of She Care Wellness Pods at Bennett College

Yesterday, we posted an interior view of the "She Care Wellness Pods" at Bennett College. In retrospect, we should have started with a more comprehensive view. However, we were so excited to get to meet with the manager, Yvon'ne Lyle, that we selected a close-up of a the interior of a pod. Yesterday's photo was of the pod on the left,  There is a second small pod on the right, and the bigger pod is to the right. The bigger pod accommodates small groups, and, on warm days, the patio area can be used for yoga and other outdoor activities. There are umbrellas for super sunny days to cover the tables. There are so many fabulous initiatives happening at Bennett College. We are so lucky to have this historic institution in our community.

Read more about the "She Care Wellness Pods"  on yesterday's Greensboro Daily Photo post.  You really should drive on campus and see this resource. Gate 6 is the closest parking. Initially, there is funding through Kate Spade & the Boris L. Hensen Foundation.  Let's hope the pods are around for a very long time and that the community supports this initiative to help with community mental health and wellness needs, from Bennett Belles and beyond.

Happy Almost Friday! 

She Care Wellness Pods at Bennett College

Today's photo features one of the wellness pods on the Bennett College campus. Also featured is Pod Manager Yvon'ne Lyle. We spoke at length yesterday to her about the initiative. The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation Self-Care Wellness Pods are installed in partnership with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation and Kate Spade New York. *  You can see from the photo that the pods are clean, cozy, and inviting. Bennett Belles, as well as community members, can reserve a pod for an hour for free. During that time, some people read, others listen to music, some actually rest on the day beds. There is also a larger pod and a patio area where people can sit or where community members can take and lead classes. Offerings include art therapy, yoga sessions, and just about anything to improve mental health and wellness.  

The holistic wellness program was launched in 2023 with the first pod installed at Alabama State University; the second one was installed at Hampton University in Virginia; and now, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 22, the third one at Bennett College. Bennett's pod system is the first that provides services for the community at large. Yvon'ne, who is working on a Master's degree in Business Administration at UNCG, is the perfect person to serve as the bridge between the Greensboro community, Bennett College, and the pod initiative. If you want to visit, you can to to Bennett's campus (Gate 6). You may also email   [email protected]. Additionally, you can read Yasmine Register's article in the Carolina Peacemaker, and see more photos by Ivan Saul Cutler.

Happy Wednesday!

* See the website HERE

LifeFit, a Mind-Body Practice & Wellness Business

Today's photo, by guest photographer Rose Fama, features a yoga session at Life FitYoga. You can tell from the photo, the atmosphere is calm and inviting and participants are engaged in the session.  LifeFit classes are offered at The Performing Arts Center (7200 Summerfield Road), in Summerfield, just north of Greensboro. LifeFit owner Mona Flynn has been leading classes for over 30 years. She has a doctoral degree in kinesiology from UNCG and is especially skilled in  helping clients determine what practices are the best for their given needs. She is credentialed to work with clients at all ability needs and all age levels. Mona is the founder and Board of Directors Chair for a 501c3, The Yoga Connection. Greensboro is lucky to have such an experienced, capable person who works tirelessly to help others.

New LifeFit classes start this week.  There are seven weekly classes and something for all ability levels. To learn more about class offerings, to register, or to talk with Mona about your specific needs, see the LifeFit website, HERE.  The first class is always free and Mona will help you determine which class is the best fit for you. 

Happy Wednesday. Namaste!

Bike Giveaway at Guilford County Schools

On Thursday afternoon (October 24), in Fleming Gym at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, 1,800 third grade students in Guilford County Schools came to UNCG. The event seemed like a pep rally. UNCG cheerleaders were on site and student leaders from the Middle College at UNCG were on the sidelines building excitement in the crowd. Spiro the Spartan was also working the crowd.  The third graders were at the event knowing 5 of the students would be selected to get bikes for having written a winning essay. However, at the end, Middle College at UNCG students rode in about 100 bikes, students learned that all 1,800 of them would get a brand new bicycle and the  students cheered jubilantly. Many civic organizations contributed to the purchasing of the bicycles. The program is part of the BIKES for KIDS hat started in California in 2002.  

In addition to the great thrill of getting a bicycle, for some students, Thursday's outing was their first on a college campus, in a college gym. Who knows, that may be the spark that inspires some students to pursue higher education when they get older. As for the high students who helped, they got to share in this special event, knowing they were part of sparking joy in the elementary school students. Truly, it was a "feel good" afternoon. The above photo features community members and Guilford County School staff, including Superintendent Oakley (the person with long dark hair behind the students with winning essays, who are just behind the bicycle).

,Happy Monday!

GCS School Choice Showcase

Last night was the Choice Showcase of the Guilford County Schools. It was held at the Greensboro Coliseum. People came out to see what special programs are offered through the public schools.  If you missed the showcase last night, you can still attend open houses at the individual schools and participate in magnet tours (see HERE). The timeline is much earlier this year do that families can know earlier what options students will have for the upcoming school year. 

The above photo features the booth of the Middle College at UNCG.  Close to 20 students came out to help promote their school.  Middle College students have a lot of pride in their school. Parents and rising 9th graders had great questions and the students were in a position to field questions. In addition to the students, the university liaison, school staff, teachers, and principal were on site to answer questions. Hopefully, everyone knows about the shift in timeline as those deadlines are non-negotiable. Students are always advised to tour schools and ask lots of questions.  Usually, once on site, it becomes clear if there is a goodness of fit. This is especially true for the high school students.

Happy Thursday!

 

Great Progress Being Made on Brooks Global Elementary School

The above photo is of the new, relocated  Brooks Global Elementary School at 400 Ashland Drive near the Greensboro Arboretum. The plan is for it to open in January. It is located on the Old Craven School Site.  The families with children currently enrolled  absolutely love Brooks School, the culture, and the teachers. They are beyond excited to have their children attend the new school that will have new technology and will emphasize sustainability and discovery learning. If you get out this weekend, drive by and see your tax dollars at work. This is an 80,000 sq. ft. building and the lot is about 8 acres, but, it fits perfectly.

Happy Saturday! 

Sheriff Rogers & Major Wiseman Speak to Students at the Middle College at UNCG

 Yesterday, Sheriff Danny H. Rogers and Major N.Z. Wiseman  visited the 9-12 Middle College at UNCG, the  K-12 high school on UNCG's campus. Sheriff  Rogers was a guest speak for the 9th grade civics classes.  Sworn in as Sheriff of Guilford County in 2018. Sheriff Rogers  is very personable and students enjoyed the question and answer session with him. After spending time with him, it was obvious Sheriff Rogers enjoys interacting with people. For the presentation, he  wore pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Major N. Z. Wiseman (on the left) was a highway patrolman for 30 years in North Carolina. Now, he is part of the Support Operations Bureau in Guilford County. Both men have had successful careers in law enforcement, are businessmen, and respected community members. It is nice for students to see the human side of law enforcement. Sheriff Rogers says his job is to "listen to the heartbeat of the community." He is the first black sheriff of Guilford County and he works hard to maintain diversity in his staff. At the end of his presentation, students were thrilled to have the opportunity to get their photo taken with the two guests If you see Sheriff Rogers or Major Wiseman,  be sure to thank them for their decades of service to our community..

Happy Wednesday! 

UNCG Homecoming 2024

UNCG was wall to wall people for homecoming. The above scene on College Avenue in front of the Alumni House does not even begin to capture the size of the crowd. The green space in front of the Foust Building was an ocean of people. Someone had a round cooker preparing something and people were gathered socializing and enjoying themselves. Some brought their food-truck food to the space to eat. We have never seen so much foot traffic on campus. Perhaps the nice weather really helped bring students out. That spartan head helps anchor the photo on UNCG's campus. In the student union, in Cone Ballroom, a family game night was being held. People were playing Bingo and other games. When we were there, it was about at capacity.

Here is a photo of Faust Building that dates back almost 16 years ago. We are always amazed to do an online search and to see our own photos pop up. A lot of history is provided there, should you be interested. Let's hope homecoming was fun, and that all were safe and happy. Soon, it will be fall break. It is all of the scheduled events, above and beyond academics, that make a college experience special. Today, it's back to the books.

Happy Monday!

Unbridled Joy on Tate Street

Yesterday was a very busy day on Tate Street and on UNCG's Campus. The Tate Street Festival brought music and vendors to this street on the east side of UNCG's campus. The shops and restaurants seemed to be busy. The unidentified couple above broke out in dance when a peppy band started playing. The weather was beautiful and people seemed to be enjoying themselves. The first Tate Street Festival was held in 1973 with Jim Clark, Editor of the Greensboro Sun, was one of the organizers. UNCGs Homecoming was also in full swing. The first officially-named homecoming was in 1982. It is hard to believe that the Taste Street Festival predates UNCG's Homecoming. 

We'll post a homecoming photo tomorrow. To be sure, fall is prime time for festivals and special events in Greensboro. We usually post something spiritual on Sunday and had a photo of a church for you. However, it seems to us, people being joyful and enjoying each other's company has a very spiritual aspect. 

Happy Sunday!

Brad Light, Barnes & Noble College Division

 

Brad Light, originally from Morgantown, West Virginia, is General Manager of the Barnes and Noble College Division in the Greensboro area. In the above photo, he is at the bookstore on UNCG's campus, where he has worked for 28 years. Yesterday, we had a chance to ask Brad about bookselling in the digital era. Brad explained that, over the course of his career,  the majority of requests are for materials have gone from being physical copies of books to digital materials. To address this shift, Barnes & Noble has initiated a program called "First Day Complete."  

As stated on their marketing materials,  "UNCG First Day® Complete is a course materials delivery program (rental) that lowers the cost of course materials and ensures undergraduate students have their required course materials on the first day of class." Students pay $19 per course hour to receive all of the textbooks and digital materials needed for their courses. The program has been extremely successful, with the majority of students using this option. According to Brad, the program is a great one, but it is actually more labor intensive than stacking books on shelves.

It is always a pleasure to talk to Brad. He works hard to meet the needs of the UNCG students, faculty, and staff-- and does it with a smile.

Happy Wednesday!

Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA)

The Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (TEA)  brings secondary-level educators from participating countries to the United States for six weeks.  During their time in the USA, they attend academic seminars at a host university, travel, experience short homestays, and have a 40-hour field experience co-teaching with American public school teachers. UNCG is one of eight host institutions and the only one in North Carolina selected for this prestigious opportunity. The above photo features the international teachers, their American co-teachers, and Dr. Maria Anastasiou (bottom row, left). Dr. Anastasiou is Associate Provost and Senior International Officer in the Global Engagement Office at UNCG. She oversees the Fulbright TEA Program, ensuring participants have a rich and meaningful experience and that the expectations in the Fulbright grant are followed with fidelity.  Also in the photo is Dr. Jane He (top right), Assistant Professor in Teacher Education and Higher Education at UNCG. Dr. He provides academic seminars for the Fulbright TEAs and co-teachers.

We selected the "fun" photo to feature today because it shows how much the Fulbright teachers and their American co-teachers were enjoying their initial day together. Teachers all over the world speak the same language and by the end of the day, friendships were forged. The field experiences begin this week. Participating schools in Greensboro are: The Middle College at UNCG, The Doris Henderson Newcomers School, and Western High School. There are a total of twenty international participants from eighteen countries: Argentina, Bangladesh, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Haiti, Latvia, Moldova, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka,  Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vietnam. The Fulbright teachers arrived on September 11th and will return to their home countries on October 28th. If you see them around, please give them a warm Greensboro welcome!

(photo by Journalist Will Zimmerman)

 

GCS Celebration of Excellence & Teacher of Year

Last night, Guilford County Schools held their Celebration of Excellence at the Tanger Center for the Performing Arts. The venue has a wonderful sound and lighting system and is such a special space.  At the celebration, Counselor-, Social Worker-, Rookie Teacher-, Mentor-, Assistant Principal-, Principal-, and Teacher-of-the-Year were selected. The most enthusiastic schools in the audience were also honored with a Spirit Award. To the right of the podium is Superintendent Oakley. Next to her is Jeffery Silverthorne, Western High, who was selected as GCS Teacher of the Year. He came to teaching after a couple of decades in the corporate world. And now, he is an adjunct instruct at High Point University as well as a teacher at Western High.

On the right side of the stage are the other Teacher of the Year Finalists: Suzanne Stringer, Triangle Lake Montessori (fourth from right in green dress); Natasha Richmond, Brightwood Elementary (third from right); next, Marthaniel Grinton, Northern High, and Christen Blanton, The Academy at Lincoln. Everyone on the stage was a winner, not only last night, but every day in their dedication to the children in the Guilford County Schools.

Happy Thursday!

 

NC A& T Drumline

On Tuesday, Justice Henry and Shirley Frye received the key to the city of Greensboro for their lifelong service to our community. It was a lovely service. The atmosphere was even more celebratory having the NC A&T marching band drumline performing.  The NC A&T band was started in 1918 as a small program and the band became an integral part of the music. The percussionists at the University have developed quite a following, as they not only exude a percussive sound, they dance and perform exciting routines.

The band played tirelessly yesterday before the event and long after the event was over. Between the ceremony and the performance of the percussionists, there was a vibrancy in Center City Park. Usually, during the week it is a very quiet place. But Tuesday, the park came alive. It was such a joy to watch and hear the band perform. Their sound carried for several blocks. Perhaps, the wooden shelter in front of the band added to their sound. In case you want to hear them, the band will be playing at the NC A & T home football game against NC Central. The game starts at 7:00 p.m.

Happy Thursday!

Underpass from Gate City Boulevard to UNCG Campus

Did you ever think an underpass would connect Gate City Boulevard to the UNCG Campus. Such is the case and the above photo is evidence. Yesterday after, there was a downpour in this part of town, the underpass was a welcome shortcut. For those without umbrellas or rain jackets, it served as a great place to wait until the heavy winds and rain stopped. The underpass is ten. years old this year. It was constructed in 2014 through a partnership between The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the North Carolina Railroad Company. The purpose of the underpass is to provide safe pedestrian access under the rail corridor. 

Train tracks are private property and trespassing is not only dangerous, it is illegal. However, it is hard to convince people not to walk across tracks in undesignated places when doing so saves significant time. The underpass has been a wonderful way to link the south side (Glenwood side) of campus to the main part of UNCG. It is a fine example of how partnerships are good for a community.  Another fabulous feature of this space is that it is a great backdrop for photos.

Happy Friday! Let's all get out and explore Greensboro.

First Day of School Fall 2024

Today is the Monday closest to August 26, the day State Law says school can begin. So, happy first day of school! Today, there will be noticeably more traffic, so allow more time to get from Point A to Point B. Also, refresh your memory about driving in school zones and when busses stop- ALWAYS stop when you are behind the bus, but what about if you are on a four lane road with a median?.*  

The above photo was taken at the bus parking lot at Dudley High School. In addition to bring students to and from Dudley, the school also serves as a hub, transporting students who ride to out-of-district schools. While the official address of Dudley is 1200 Lincoln Street, Lincoln Street has no outlet and most of the traffic is for The Academy at Lincoln (Middle School). The bus parking lot is on the Willow Road side of the school. Be on the lookout for high school seniors with "Last First Day of School" shirts. When their parents insist on their "first day" photos, those are incredibly cute.

At last count, Guilford County has almost 69,000 public school students. Let's hope they all return, and have a great school year. Guilford County is the third largest district in North Carolina. Of course we like to think it is the BEST. Happy 2024-2025 school year. And please do take the photo, even if your children protest. And let's all be super nice and respectful to our bus drivers.

Happy Monday!

 

Here's to a year with no incidents with busses or cars;  to all children being safe.

 

* get a refresher course on stopping on two and four lane roads HERE. 

Governor's School West

Greensboro College is the host campus for Governor's School West for the 2024 season. Opening day was June 23rd and it will last for a month. High school students have been participating in campus-wide events: performances, presentations, classes, speakers, and more. Above, participants of this very prestigious program are at the International Civil Rights Museum on South Elm Street. The four-week program is highly competitive even among the most gifted and talented high school students. There are no credits, tests, or grades; just highly-motivated and intellectually curious students receiving highly-engaging opportunities, facilitated by talented teachers.

At Governor's school, there are several academic disciplines to choose from: Art, choral music, dance, English, Spanish, instrumental music, mathematics, natural science, social science, and theater. If you ever have a chance for a loved one to participate in Governor's School, by all means encourage them to do so.  The Governor's School in North Carolina was established in 1963 by then-Governor Terry Sanford. Twenty-four states have some form of special opportunity for students. How wonderful that one of these opportunities is held in Greensboro. The other site is Meredith College in Raleigh.

Happy Monday!

 

* see here.

Brooks Global, In Progress

We love to drive by new school construction and check on progress. The above photo is of Brooks Global Elementary School as it stands now, located just behind the Greensboro Arboretum. This is one of the six schools that have been funded with bond money. The state-of-the-art design will fit an 80,000 sq. ft. building on an 8-acre lot. There will be solar panels and ceiling tiles made of recycled material; all visible to students so they can learn about sustainable energy. The school will have large windows to help bring the outdoors in and students will be able to walk across the street to the Arboretum.* An outdoor classroom in anticipated to be a popular feature.

The building is starting to look like a school. If you want to see people hard at work, get there before 3:30, when the construction crew winds up for the day. When we visited yesterday, we saw people hard at work. The process and progress are fascinating. Those will be some lucky teachers and students who have the privilege of teaching and learning here. Hopefully, photos of the construction will be available to be archived.

Happy Friday!

*reference and more information, HERE.

 

 

UNCG Annual Spring Pow Wow 2024

On Saturday, April 13, UNCG held their annual spring Pow Wow on the lawn of Elliot University Center on the campus of UNCG. It was a hot, sunny day, and also the day of the "Science Everywhere" event. Formerly, for nearly 40 years, UNCG held an International Festival in early April on campus. Fortunately, Pow Wow is still being held. It was so fun watching the young children learning the cultural practices and traditions of their families.

Commencement services are starting to be held on college and university campuses. UNCGs will be this Friday and Greensboro College will hold graduation on the same day. NCA&Ts undergraduate ceremony will be on May 11th and that of Guilford College on May 18th. April is a time to hold all of those culminating events, even Pow Wow, where Indigenous American students and families in the Greensboro Community can gather one more time before people go their separate ways for the summer.

Happy Tuesday!

 

*Cumberland County will hold a Pow Wow this Saturday (see HERE), 

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!

Science Everywhere

This past Saturday was the annual UNCG Science Everywhere event. There were over 50 science activities all over campus related to science, technology e-sports, art, and music.  It was a chance to tour the UNCG science research labs and for community members, professionals, and students of all ages to see displays and participate in hands-on activities. The above station, held in the Coleman Building, involved dry ice and cosmic slime. It was a big hit with younger students. It was also a great opportunity for anyone preparing to teach science to gain field experience.

Greensboro is so lucky to have so many community college branches and institutions of higher education. Every week of the year there is something going on that is open for community attendance. Science Everywhere is an April event held as college students are about to finish their semester. Sadly, the International Festival, a UNCG annual event for almost 40 years is no longer being held. The Science Everywhere event, however, seems to be going strong. To be sure, these interdepartmental ventures are a lot of work, and we appreciate you.

Happy Monday!

Prom 2024 Season is Upon Us!

Prom season is upon us in Greensboro. Students throughout Guilford County will be attending prom over the next several weeks. It is such a jubilant time with seniors enjoying their last couple of months together. Last night, all of the middle colleges held their prom together at George K's at the corner of Gate City Boulevard and High Point Road. Students looked so beautiful and they were on their best behavior. Teacher chaperones were commenting at how grown up their students looked. The DJ took requests from the crowd and students danced the night away. It was good, clean fun. The food was good small plate food (chicken fingers, egg rolls, fruit, and more), but most prom groups go out to eat beforehand and didn't seem that interested in food. The theme, "Bling, Bling, It's a Hollywood Thing" was perfect from the backdrop for photos and the glittery dresses.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2024. Finish strong, and remember this night forever. If you have a graduating senior in your life, trust them, encourage them,  love them, and cherish every moment. They are growing up. 

Happy Saturday!

Judy Woodruff, Bryan Series Speaker

Tuesday night, Judy Woodruff closed out the GUILFORD College 2023-2024 Bryan Series. She is an American broadcast journalist whose career in public television began in 1970. She has been a CNN anchor and senior-correspondent, a Washington correspondent for PBS, anchored the PBS News Hour until 2022, and so much more. Currently, she is on a reporting project to better understand the political divide in the United States. She talked a great deal about this project, entitled, "America at a Crossroads." She showed clips from interviews which were clear examples of left and right learning ideas and positions. She explained how this division is a layered issue and there is animosity coming from both sides.

Judy Woodruff has North Carolina ties. She identifies as an "Army brat" and she finished 6th grade in Roanoke Rapids, NC. She also attended Meredith College and is a Graduate of Duke University. Greensboro is so lucky to have the Bryan series as it is an opportunity for us to hear deep thinkers and people who are looking at issues from a national and international level. The above photo was taken as she was leaving the stage. The speakers for next year have not yet been announced. It is always fun to see the list for the first time

Happy Thursday!

Eid Mubarak!

Today, Muslims around the world are celebrating the completion of Ramadan, the end of the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It has been a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims in Greensboro will be at the Greensboro Coliseum on Gate City Boulevard as well as at mosques praying and enjoying the fellowship with family and friends. Everyone will be wearing new outfits. Men will be sporting new haircuts and everyone's favorite foods and desserts will be shared. Eid-al-Fitr celebrates Allah's providing strength and endurance, and is a time of great charity.

The above photo features the hands of a group of Muslim students at the Middle College at UNCG. They have had henna applied to their hands, in most cases having done it themselves. Applying henna is a communal tradition that builds a sense of sisterhood and community. According to the US Religion Census (updated March 26, 2024), there are 130,661 Muslims in North Carolina, 11th in number by state. Guilford County Schools has a diverse student population and the district makes every effort to ensure all students have a positive experience. The Middle College at UNCG has a diverse student population. It is a high school that focuses on health and life sciences. These very hands will someday be our doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. May they enjoy this special day.

Eid Mubarak, Blessed Feast!

Meet Kendall McMillan

Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Kendall McMillan who is a rising senior at Grimsley High School. Kendall is one of those students who does it all. She is in student council, a varsity cheerleader, runs track, participates in service learning opportunities, and more, all while excelling in honors courses. Kendall has attended public schools in Guilford County since Kindergarten. 

After Kindergarten, it quickly became apparent that Kendall needed a more challenging curriculum. In first grade, she transitioned to the Spanish immersion program at Jones Elementary. In spite of starting a year late, within her first year there, she earned an award for outstanding pronunciation. Kendall has remained in the Spanish immersion program all through elementary, middle, and high school. She loves speaking Spanish and plans to minor in it in college. She will pursue a career where she can use Spanish to help people who might not be in the position to help themselves- possibly immigration law or social work. 

Recently, Kendall learned that she has been accepted into the highly-competitive Governor’s School of North Carolina. It is the nation’s oldest statewide summer residential program for gifted high school students. The classes integrate academic content with the arts and other creative learning experiences. Kendall’s area of concentration is Spanish. She will spend four weeks immersed in the language. Congratulations to Kendall McMillan. Hers is a name you will want to remember.

Apples at the Base of UNCG's Minerva Statue

Recently, when we were on the campus of UNCG, we saw all of the apples with bites out of them. The tradition goes that if the apples, with a bite out, are left at the base of this Minerva statue, they will do well on exams. We imagine the apples have been there since the mid-term period as the apples have some age on them. As you can see in the photo, the sculptor is James Barnhill who earned an MFA from UNCG in 1982. The Minerva statue was a gift of the class of 1953  in 2003 for the 50th anniversary of their graduation. Here is a photo of Minerva from this time last year, so you can see the full statue. Minerva is the goddess of wisdom, justice, law, victory, and the sponsor of arts, trade, and strategy; and the patron of strategic war. (It sounds like she might have been an overachiever). Do you see the little bird on the left? He was joyfully pecking the flesh of one of the apples.

These college traditions and lore of things around campus, make good memories and are part of building community in higher education.  Students graduate from an institution knowing these special traditions. In addition to placing apples at the base of Minerva, there is a rock that gets painted (known as the Rawk), a superstition to not walk under the clock tower, and the tradition of wearing blue and gold (school colors) on Friday. What traditions did your schools have?

On the EUC Lawn at UNCG

Thursday was a lovely afternoon in Greensboro. After we left the book talk on the UNCG campus, we walked across the lawn of the student union. It was nice seeing all of these UNCG students spending time together, relaxing and socializing. This is the picture of the best of college life when students have the opportunity to meet in person. The building in the background really frames the photo. It is the tower, or stacks, added on to Jackson Library in the 1970's. The nine-story tower is quite a landmark on campus.

Just under 18,000 students enrolled at UNCG this fall. Thirty six percent of students live on campus. Let's hope that even those who don't live on campus have an opportunity to enjoy some of the campus activities- planned and impromptu. Even though it is going to be a rainy day today, there are still plenty of things to do on a college campus, and we have four of them in Greensboro.

Happy Saturday!

Hal & Eleanor Minnock-Pugh

To celebrate International Women's History Month, the UNC Greensboro University Libraries hosted a Book Talk & Signing by Hal E. Pugh and Eleanor Minnock-Pugh. After twenty-five years of researching and writing, they published the book, "Naomi "Omie" Wise: Her Life, Death and Legend."  The event, held in the Oakley Room at the Alumni House at UNCG, the event was free and open to the public. Naomi "Omie" Wise was a young woman from Randolph County, North Carolina who was born in or before 1789 and was murdered in 1807. Her murder resulted in a trial that was held in Guilford County and in the end, the suspect was acquitted due to nothing more than circumstantial evidence. This murder happened in an era when news spread through newspapers, books, and oral tradition. The case generated much interest.  Many of the details of the murder are derived from the 147 various texts and fragments appearing about the case. Hal Pugh was intrigued by the case because he is related to the family back 5 generations. 

One of the most famous ballads about Naomi Wise is Bob Dylan's 1961 version. However, we likely owe all of the information about Naomi Wise to the great storytelling in North Carolinian Braxton Craven's 1851 book, "Naomi Wise, or the Victim." However, the Pughs say if the truth is a straight road, Braxton Craven's version was a curvy, embellished one. However, the story has endured for 217 years. If you read the Pughs' book, you will not only learn about a North Carolina woman whose story only endures because of her horrific demise, you will learn how meticulous research unfolds. The Pughs told us they are glad the research lasted for twenty-five years, because in recent years so many records and pieces of archival material have been made available through the internet, making it possible for them to search documents and records without having to travel hundreds of miles. In their spare time, when not research and writing about Naomi Wise, the Pughs are busy producing original redware and stoneware pottery.

The Greensboro community is lucky to have access to university-sponsored events like this one.

Happy Friday!

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.

GCS Tuesday Tours

Today starts Tuesday Tours for Guilford County Schools (GCS). Our local public school district offers 48 choice schools and a title of 66 programs, over K-12 grades. These programs help engage learners and prepare them for future careers. They provide hands-on experience and in some cases internships. The above photo was taken last Wednesday (January 31st) when schools set up in the Coliseum to showcase their offerings. The above photo was taken on the elementary school section of the choice fair. Unfortunately, we didn't get to talk to the teacher setting up the robot. As soon as we snapped the photo, there were many interested families with questions and we didn't interrupt.

Three Tuesdays in February, choice schools will offer tours for prospective applicants. It is so important that families, especially students, tour, and ask questions to ensure the goodness of fit for a student and a chosen program. Usually, a student can tell if there is a goodness of fit and if the school's offerings match their interests. Most programs are lottery based and slots are very coveted. If you are interested in a school or program. Here is a link to choice schools and tour offerings. GCS currently has several schools under construction and these new schools will be fantastic. Here's to great tours and students finding their academic home.

Happy Tuesday! 

Social Justice Presentation at Hairston Auditorium

Yesterday at 10:00 am, people gathered to celebrate the legacy of four North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) students and the role they played in the civil rights movement. This was the 64th anniversary of the Sit-Ins that first took place on February 1, 1960. At 10:00 am, there was a service and wreath laying ceremony in front of the February One Statue. After, high school students were invited to attend a social justice presentation by a panel of five very accomplished NC A&T students who answered questions about what they were doing to bring about change and gave high school students advice on what they could do to be actively engaged. The NC A&T students also talked about the opportunities at NC A&T and what a great school it is. The high school students were respectful and engaged, likely impressed that some of the university students were just a few years older than they are. The young man on the left has already appeared on Good Morning America and other national shows talking about social justice and making a difference. The student in the middle is just 19 years old and graduating this spring. The man on the left is an articulate freshman. Indeed, the above four students were role models for the high school students.

If we had one with for schools, it would be to offer more field trips. They are so hard to arrange these days, between the bus driver shortage, needed funding, and the pressure to cover core curriculum. Yesterday's field trip was impactful to the high school students who were able to attend, not only for the opportunity to participate in the February One ceremony and the social justice talk, but also to just spend time together making memories. After the presentation, students walked from the university campus to downtown Greensboro to the International Civil Rights Museum and Center. It was a cool, but sunny day and memories were made. 

Happy Friday!

February One- Black History Month

And so we begin Black History Month, a month of people learning about events that propelled the Civil Rights Movement and Black history in general. February One is a big day, it is also the day that the Greensboro Four marched from the campus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  (NC A&T) to the F.W. Woolworth Building at 134 South Elm Street. The above monument, by Greensboro artist and sculptor, James Barnhill, was installed on the campus of NC A&T in 2002. It features the Greensboro Four: David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), and Joseph McNeil.

Today, many people will be visiting NC A&T campus to participate in a special ceremony for the events of February 1, 1960. It is important to remember the past and to work in the moment to lead society in the direction of equity. There is a PBS documentary about February One. It would be in all of our best interests to watch the documentary. 

Happy Thursday! Happy February!

North Carolina A&T University Preparing for Black History Month

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is preparing for Black History Month starting with the February One Celebration. The exhibit has been installed in the H.C. Taylor Art Gallery, located in the old administration building, just behind the February One Monument. This exhibit is not to be missed. Mia and Norris McAdoo have loaned the gallery over 650 artifacts that provide insight into the lives and experiences of African Americans from the era of enslavement to present day.

The above photo is of a slave transport collar. Other items include a playbill from the Broadway play of "A Raisin in the Sun," copies of "Negro Digest" from the 1940s, and a Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee screen print from 1964. Many people collect ephemera and other items from history. The McAdoos have assembled an invaluable museum. The collection ranges from warm, nostalgic memories to more jarring ones like the above collar. In the background, you see a museum worker adjusting gallery lights so  the exhibit will be just perfect when it opens to the public. He encouraged us to also visit the exhibit on the second floor. Greensboro is a city with so much history related to the Civil Rights Movement. If you are local, we encourage you to use the month of February to learn as much as you can. If you are from elsewhere, please come visit.

Happy Wednesday!

Receiver

If you are looking for something meaningful to do on a winter day, we'd suggest you visit the Weatherspoon Art Museum on the southeast corner of the UNCG campus, at the corner of Spring Garden Street and Tate Street. The above photo is of the rear entrance, near the dedicated parking area for museum visitors. The painted bronze sculpture in the center of the photo is "Receiver."  It has been placed in the courtyard and Urban Francis has been moved to the second floor. The artist of this sculpture is Huma Bhabha, who was born in Pakistan, but now lives in New York State. She is known for ambiguity in her art and based on the description of the piece, the title could refer to the receiver-like headphones in the figure's ears, it could refer to the figure itself- as in a being who receives others and who receives communication- or likely both.

According to The Center for New North Carolinians, there are approximately 1,000 Pakistanis living in Guilford County (reference), and many live around Allen J Elementary School in High Point. Allen J offers a dual-language immersion program in Urdu, a language of Pakistan. The program has gained national attention (reference).  The Weatherspoon Art Museum is mindful of the growing diversity in the population of Greensboro, Guilford County, North Carolina and the United States. Their acquisitions and exhibits reflect this growing diversity. The Bhabha sculpture is one of many examples.  If you get a chance, stop by and see this sculpture, and also the exhibits. If you like photography, you will really enjoy the current exhibits. See information about exhibits and hours here.

Happy Midweek! 

Hampton Elementary Demolition Has Started

Hampton Elementary School on Trade Street on the eastern side of Greensboro, was severely damaged in a tornado in April of 2018. Guilford County Schools, the City of Greensboro, and the community at large have been in discussion as to what to do with the school. Ideas ranged from revitalizing it to tearing it down. After other options did not pan out, the Guilford County Schools Board of Education voted to give the land to the City. The hope is to make the property into something the local community- known as Cottage Grove- can use so that children will benefit. *  It is a nice piece of land and it was especially pretty yesterday when we visited and the sun was shining. If you notice on the left, the door is open as workers were inside. Most of the noticeable demolition to date is on the back side of the building.

The school is named for William M Hampton who was a physician. Dr. Hampton was also a Board of Education member and the first Black person elected to the Greensboro City Council.**   There has been a nomination to include his name as part of the new visual and performing arts elementary school being built to replace Peeler and Hampton Schools. The current nomination seeks to preserve both names. Hampton School is tucked back into a neighborhood. If you are out this weekend, it is worth a drive past it. Perhaps you will have some ideas to share about the land.

Happy Friday!

 

• reference and more information HERE.
• ** reference and more information HERE.

Rainy Day Downtown

Yesterday was a dark and rainy day with some high winds. While the worst of the storm skirted Greensboro, there were issues with standing water on many of the streets and there were overturned garbage cans on many of the streets with Tuesday garbage service. As we drove through town and Friendly Center, the area was pretty empty for a weekday. The above photo was taken at the corner of West Friendly Avenue and North Greene Street.

The building in the photo is Elon Law School, which opened in downtown Greensboro in 2006. This building at 201 North Greene Street opened in 1960 as the Greensboro Public Library. It was designed by Greensboro architect Edward Loewenstein in partnership with Gregory Ivy, who was chairman of the art department at Woman's College (now UNCG) from 1935- 1961. It is so nice to see downtown buildings preserved and repurposed and to know, not only did  201 North Greene Street have a memorable past as a library, but that great learning here will continue well into the future. As wet as it was outside, especially from 2:30- 4:30 pm, it was warm and cozy inside for students and faculty.

Happy Wednesday!