Greensboro Daily Photo

Meet Dr. Diya Abdo

If there is anything you want to know about migration, internationally, nationally, or right here in Greensboro, Dr. Diya Abdo is the person to ask. She is a Lincoln Financial Professor of English at Guilford College. Dr. Abdo is a second-generation Palestinian refugee born and raised in Jordan. While much of her research focuses on Arab women writers and feminism, she is perhaps best known for an initiative she started at Guilford College in 2015, Every Campus a Refuge, or ECAR. The mission of ECAR is for every U.S. college and university to serve as a resettlement campus to help local resettlement agencies by hosting refugee families. The central challenge for refugee families is to find housing. Once their sponsorship benefits (a small stipend and temporary housing) expire, it is really hard for refugee families to find housing. In spite of all of the documentation that cleared their entry into the United States, they don't have social security numbers or a credit history, so it can be hard to convince landlords to rent to them. Under the ECAR program, college campuses provide housing for families. As an example, Guilford College has a refugee family living in a faculty house. To date, Guilford College and Wake Forest are the two participating North Carolina campuses. According to this website, Guiford has hosted 32 refugees, 18 of them children.  Trained volunteers help with their daily needs in the resettlement process.

Dr. Abdo travels around the country sharing her expertise. She has given TED Talks and has lectured widely on the topic of ECAR and migration. Currently, she is at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, giving a presentation. Fortunately, she made time in her busy schedule to meet with us and chat over coffee at the Green Bean. Greensboro is lucky she and her family have settled here, and we hope they stay for a very long time. Also, hats off to Guilford College  whose 7 core values- community, diversity, equality, excellence, integrity, justice, and stewardship- fit seamlessly with the ECAR initiative and with the mindset of Dr. Abdo. 

Happy Friday! Hurry home, Dr. Abdo!

Choice Showcase at Guilford County Schools

Last night the School Choice Showcase was held at the Greensboro Coliseum. Guilford County offers in-demand and innovative programs. Examples of choices include, performing and visual arts schools, Spanish immersion, engineering, and health and life science. The above photo features the booth of the Middle College at UNCG last night. Their theme is health and life sciences. It is not unusual for the popular programs to get 500 applications for 50 slots. . Here is a list of the choice schools and programs. At the moment, there are fifty one, with plans to create more. The application window started on January 13th and will close on February 20th. Some of the programs require interviews; others are strictly lottery based. Acceptance will be determined on April 21st. 

It cannot be stressed enough, if you have student who is interested in a choice school program, have them get their application in on or before the deadline and have them do their homework. Usually, students can tell when visiting a school if they can imagine attending the school. Choice schools are great for students who want a special focus. Attendance zone/neighborhood schools are best for students who want the traditional school experience. Students who attend choice schools can participate in sports and extracurriculars in their home school; however, if they want the thrill of walking down the hall on a Monday morning after winning a big game over the weekend, a traditional school is best. These decisions can be exciting and difficult at the same time. Guilford County Schools is known nationally for their schools of choice. Some of the program make it possible for high school students to graduate with up to two years of college credit!

Happy Groundhog Day and Happy Candlemas!

Friday Night, High School Basketball; Page vs. Grimsley

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

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

Happy Saturday!

Superintendent Oakley

 

Yesterday, the newly-appointed Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley held a the first of the Superintendent's Teachers Advisory Council meetings for the 2022-2023 school year. Each school in Guilford County was asked to appoint a teacher to attend and represent. At the meeting, Dr. Oakley reflected on the challenges and successes of the Guilford County Schools (GCS) during the pandemic. She lauded the hard work of teachers and staff for making the adjustments needed during those unprecedented times. After the "where we have been" segment, she updated the group on "where we are now" and the importance of continuing what works in addressing learning recovery and learning gains. She shared updates on repair needs and construction in progress. She also acknowledged the staffing shortage GCS is currently facing. Finally, she addressed "where we are going" especially vis-a-vis a portrait of a GCS graduate and what we want for students after their K-12 experience.

Dr. Oakley is a product of the Guilford County Schools, getting her start at Guilford Primary with Dr. Doris Henderson as her principal. She has degrees from East Carolina University, Greensboro College, and a doctoral degree from UNC Greensboro. She has made a career of serving the Alamance-Burlington and GCS school districts. Having a leader with an emic/insider's view will go a long way in addressing the complex variables and needs of Guilford County Schools, the 50th largest school district, of the 14,000+ public school districts in the United States.

Thank you for your leadership, Dr. Oakley. Happy Friday, dear readers!

UNCG Women's Basketball

Yesterday was Education Day for the University of North Carolina Greensboro Spartans. Local K-12 schools were invited to attend a game of the UNCG Women’s Basketball team. The game was played in Fleming gym against Radford University of Virginia.  The UNCG Spartans won the game with a final score of 72-54. At the conclusion of the game, the UNCG players and cheerleaders came into the stands to “high five” students, creating great memories for the young learners.

If you notice the gold "G" on the opposing team's side of the gym, it represents the "G" in UNCG. There are 17 institutions in the UNC system and UNCG has branded itself as "The G".  For sure, if you like college basketball, you have plenty of options to see the sport played in Greensboro. Let's hope all universities, near and far, reach out to the community and invite children to see a game. You never know when dreams begin and when they become reality.

The UNCG Women's Basketball team has their next game on Saturday, November 19th at 2:00 pm. also in Fleming Gym. If you can, please support them.

Happy Thursday!

 

NCA&T Homecoming

(Working with typepad to get photos to post. Sorry for the glitch. I'm hoping 5,000 photos aren't gone). This is homecoming week for North Carolina A&T State University. It has been dubbed the Greatest Homecoming on Earth and it is easy to see why. People come from all over the United States to celebrate their university with other graduates. Greensboro is crowded, in a good way. Hotels are booked, restaurants are full, many establishments have parking-lot, standing-room-only space; indeed, the festivities have begun.

The above event was taking place on Friday night at 816 South Elm Street, at the old flour mill downtown, either at the Continental Club or Vault 816, or both! People were waiting patiently in line, talking to friends who were already inside, taking selfies, and talking to people around them. When you graduate from the same university, especially one that you love, there is a camaraderie and a bond that lasts a lifetime. We didn't stick around long, as we were just passing by, but we bet if we were there long enough, we would heard a wave of "Aggie Pride" chants. Here's to good fun and a great day of football and fellowship.

Happy Saturday!

Bryan Series 2022-2023: Venus Williams, Season Opener

The Bryan Series held its season opener last night at Tanger Center. The above photo features the Guilford College Jazz Ensemble.e. It was the pre-event music while we were waiting for Venus Williams to come on stage. Tennis star Venus Williams spoke eloquently about her career, the profession of tennis, women in sports, how to achieve your personal and professional goals, and so much more. Keeping with Bryan Series format, Venus was interviewed by Katrina Adams, who was also a professional tennis player. With Adams' expertise in the sport, the interview sounded more like a fireside chat. She knew the right questions to ask and often shared her professional insight. 

One takeaway message from Venus is that "Sports is a tool for life." Her advice for parents whose children want to play tennis professionally is to have a back up plan, work hard, surround yourself with good people and be a good person. A Guilford College student asked who her music influence was and the response was "Tina Turner."  We also learned through the night that Venus loves Karaoke and had a system set up for personal entertainment while on tour. It was so inspirational to hear someone who is so successful to be so grounded and appreciative; even humble. She credits her family, especially her parents, to helping her becoming the person she is today. She credits younger sister Serena as being a role model.

Greensboro is so lucky to have the Bryan Series. If you want to hear good conversation and knowledgeable people sharing their expertise on timely topics, you will want to purchase season tickets to the Bryan Series. It is such a special evening. Thank you Guilford College and all of the sponsors and donors.

Happy Friday, everyone!

Fall Football

Watching high school football in the fall is so much fun. Above is a photo of the junior varsity game at Southern High School with Eastern High School. The crowd was small, but the air was perfect for watching football with friends. Eastern did really well and won the game, but both teams gained great experience. If you did not get out last night, consider attending a varsity game tonight. If you plan ahead, you can make sure to dress in the color you will be cheering on. It costs $7 for an adult to enter- unless you  are a GCS employee and have your school ID, you can get in free.

Happy Friday! Let us know what you are us to this weekend.

Happy Birthday/Founders Day UNCG

Yesterday was the Founders Day celebration at The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). October 5th was the first day of classes on the campus, 130 years ago in 1892. The event, held on the 6th this year, also honored the school's founders and early leaders, especially Charles Duncan McIver, the first President. Free t-shirts were distributed that said, McIver & Jackson & Sullivan & Gilliam- all four, memorable leaders. President Charles Duncan McIver was born in 1860 and only 45 years old when he died in 1906 at the age of 45. It is hard to believe that this crusader for women's education accomplished so much in his 45 short years. Walter Clinton Jackson was Head of the History Department, served as Dean and Vice President in the first past of the 20th century. Patricia Sullivan served as Chancellor from 1995- 1995- 2008. Finally, Franklin D. Gilliam is Chancellor now.

During Founders Day, the weather was glorious and students were having a ball playing cornhole, taking 360º photos, eating free kettle corn, playing frisbee, and eating free cake. The lines moved quickly and students really seemed to be enjoying themselves. Above is a photo of one of the cakes and, to be sure, there were many. When we left at 3:00, they had not yet run out of cake. Happy Birthday,

UNCG. Fall break is the first two days of next week and, likely, a lot of students will head out early today to enjoy a few days off, before returning and gearing up for the second half of the semester. 

Welcome Fulbright Scholars!

The above photo features the twenty one Fulbright teaching scholars who hail from twenty one different countries around the globe. They are one of seven cohorts of teachers placed throughout the United States in the Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program. During their stay in Greensboro they are hosted by University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). While in Greensboro and through UNCG, they will take classes, experience a homestay, attend a language conference, teach in classrooms and more. They will gain so much from this visit, but also, those who meet the international teachers will benefit. These teachers are goodwill ambassadors from their countries and are a wealth of information. The easiest way to have a global perspective is to travel and meet people from other countries.

In the above photo, participants are on the balcony of the cafeteria on the UNCG campus. While not required to dress in traditional clothing from their respective countries, some participants chose to do so. This was such a great way to initiate conversation. When you have someone from Bangladesh talking to you about his language sporting a kurta, and someone sharing information about her village in Azerbaijan wearing a rubend, and yet someone else switching from Russian to Spanish to English seamlessly, it is as if the United Nations is right there before your eyes. Teachers speak an international language, and Greensboro is so lucky that UNCG brought this international teacher cohort our way.  If you get a chance to meet one of the teacher guests, please give them a Greensboro welcome and treat them to some sweet tea and barbecue!

Happy Tuesday!

Elon University School of Law

(Sorry for the delay in this post and for the initial publication without text. It was totally the fault of Ms. GDP, not technology).  The above photo features the lobby of the Elon University School of Law, right downtown at 201 North Greene Street. It was founded in 2006 and, in 2011, it earned full accreditation by the American Bar Association. One of their signature experiences is a Residency-in-Practice Program. From the beginning of law school, Elon law students gain hands-on experience. They work to fill community needs like elder law. The school has a 10:1 student faculty ratio. While Elon University is located in Alamance County, Guilford County and Greensboro also gets to reap the benefit of this nationally recognized law school and their community-based initiatives.

If you are a person who frequents the libraries of Greensboro, you may remember this entrance hallway as the former Central Public Library*. The building was completed in 1960 and is an Edward Lowenstein/Gregory Ivy building. We hope to get inside to showcase more of the architecture, and will definitely return to photograph the exterior of the building. In preparing this post, we were reminded of the zero-lot-line placement of the building (extending right up to the sidewalk) and the corner orientation that is fairly symmetrical on the Friendly Avenue and Greene Street sides. For now, we're admiring the peaceful entranceway with the small rotunda ceiling. On the night we took this photo,  all was calm on the inside as people were reveling on the streets outside during the North Carolina Folk Festival. Communities can look very different at night and we notice things that might not get noticed by day.

Happy Friday!

*Please read this very informative page about this  library-now-law-school building.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Wednesday's double rainbow over east Greensboro was nothing short of spectacular. For some reason, it was harder to photograph than most rainbows- especially with a camera phone. However, seeing that perfect, vibrant, half circle was memorable. We did a little rainbow chasing and got the idea to capture it over Irving Park Elementary School (IPES) , since we were nearby and this  was just the first week of the school year. Also, we featured Ms. Japp yesterday, who recently retired after twenty years of teaching there.

Irving Park Elementary was established in 1923, so it is about to turn 100! While many of our schools have directional names or are named after people, IPES is named after the neighborhood where it is located.  This is the Cornwallis side of the school and located on the western end of the Irving Park neighborhood.  IPES is one of 71 elementary schools in Guilford County.  May all of the teachers and students have a great school year- in Irving Park, in Greensboro, in Guilford County, and everywhere! 

Happy Labor Day weekend, the only holiday in September.

The Wondrous Adventures of Mrs. Japp & the Sustainably Yours Bus

Michelle Japp has been an extraordinary elementary school teacher for thirty years, twenty at Irving Park Elementary School in Greensboro. She is from New Bern and has a degree from East Carolina University. We are so lucky she chose to make Greensboro her home and to teach here. This is the first year she won't be in the classroom as she retired at the end of the last school year. Here, Mrs. Japp is standing in front of a school bus, not because she is going to drive, but because she is converting this one into a mobile boutique called, Sustainably Yours. She hopes to launch her business in October. You might not recognize the bus though, because it will be painted (sustainably) green! Already, her business is generating a lot of interest and Mrs. Japp is feeling a great sense of community through this venture. She has neighbors, former co-workers, parents of former students, and others all rallying around her to support this new career path. Of course her own adult children and husband Brian are a large part the network of people cheering her on. If  Ms. Japp sees something on Pinterest, her husband can make it. They are doing the bus conversion on their own.

If you are interested in following the journeys of the Sustainably Yours bus, you can do so through Instagram @ sustanablyyours336 or Facebook at sustainablyyours. Mrs. Japp, thank you for your service to the children of Guilford County for the past twenty years. We wish you all the best on your next venture. And, with that commercial driver's license, you know you will always be welcome to drive a bus route!

We can't wait to shop your boutique! Happy Thursday, happy September!!!

Brooks Global Studies Elementary School

The above photo features the land on which the new Brooks Global Studies Elementary School will be built. This location is between Starmount Presbyterian Church, The Greensboro Arboretum, and Holden Road. Specifically, the border streets are Tryon, Ashland, and Parkwood. The current location of Brooks Global is at the north edge of the Grimsley High School campus. The new location is on land already owned by GCS and was the site of the former Craven School. Craven School was built in 1955 and had fallen in disrepair since the 1990s when it was no longer used. In 2011 the school board voted to demolish it and the 7.7 acre site is now ready for new beginnings. The only remnants of the former school are this small, circular driveway and some cement steps.

Brooks Global has a fantastic reputation and the lottery numbers of students seeking admission to this magnet school are large. The new Brooks will have the same fabulous international theme, but will be state of the art and mindful of sustainable practices. GCS has hired HICAPS/C2 to manage the implementation of the project.*

For many Guilford County School (GCS)  students, today is the first day of school. By now, just about everyone (if not all) should be back in school. Please remember to drive 25 in school zones and stop for school busses picking up students. Oh, and remember to bring your charged Cromebooks and positive attitudes! May all students try their hardest and have the best year of school yet.

Happy Monday! Happy first day of school!

*Reference and additional information HERE. Se also, HERE.

Guilford College In Summer: Brimming with Music!

Guilford College was founded in 1837 by the Quakers. Guilford College is a four-year, co-educational liberal arts college, and we are very lucky to have in Greensboro. Summers, the campus looks very different from the academic year. If there would be one word to define summers on campus, it would be music. Especially in July, Guilford College is brimming with music. Last night, another fabulous Eastern Music Festival (EMF) concert was performed in Dana Auditorium. Before the concert, Maestro Peter Perret provided insights into what to look for and anticipate during the evening concert featuring five student-conductors in training. The concert had nice attendance and the audience and student-performers alike seemed pleased with the concert. We sure enjoyed it! The above photo features musicians heading back to their dorms after performing; they were walking and enjoying each others' company. Circling them was a young doe who perhaps was startled as the performers walked through the courtyard.

Sunday, Guilford College will host Music for a Sunday Evening in the Park (MUSEP). And, about where you see students walking, from 6:00 pm- 7:30pm, the MUSEP concert will take place. However, if you come early, you can enjoy a picnic on the lawn with friends or new friends that are easily made at a MUSEP concert. There will be a couple of food trucks, if you don't have a chance to pack something. The band will be "The Beauty Operators." The concert is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. Here is the line up for the rest of the MUSEP summer in case you haven't seen it yet. As for EMF, here is their schedule. Thank you Guilford College for inviting the community in for all of these music events, and, thank you for hosting them. Being known for great music events is a good thing! Hopefully, the EMF students will be able to enjoy the MUSEP concert.

Happy Saturday!

Eastern Musical Festival: Young Artists Piano Recital

Listening to a piano recital performed by young artists at the Eastern Music Festival was the perfect way to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon. For one hour yesterday, Dana Auditorium, on the campus of Guilford College, was filled with the brilliant music of talented young pianists. The above photo is of Alvin Wang who opened the recital with "Chromatic Fantasy and Fuge in D minor, by J.S. Bach. There were about 75 people in the audience as the five different musicians performed: Alvin Wang (Bach), Ann Gao (Chopin), Hazel Musto (Ravel), Robiya Akromova (Rachmaninoff), and Andrew Reveno (Greig). Musto and Reveno were accompanied by Anthony Bock and Akromova and Gao were accompanied by William Wolfram. The remaining Sunday 3pm piano recitals are July 17 and 24 at 3:00 pm in Dana Auditorium. All are free thanks to the sponsorship of Steinway Piano Gallery. By choice, this photo was taken from the very last row in the auditorium, but there are usually plenty of seats up closer.

Here is the calendar for the remaining performances. Some of the events are free, some require the purchase of a ticket; all are open to the public. There is no performance scheduled for today, but tomorrow, from 10:30- 11:30, a string quartet will perform at the McGirt Horton Branch of the Greensboro Public Library at 2501 Phillips Avenue. Later that evening, the Eastern Chamber Players will perform from 8:00- 10:00 pm and those tickets are $33. Fifteen musicians on string and percussion instruments will perform in that evening performance. Please treat yourself to one of the performances this month.

Buffalo Academy at Buffalo Presbyterian

Buffalo Presbyterian Church, organized in 1756, is accepting applications for their elementary school. The school will open August 29th and is located in the church building at 803 16th Street. The school will start this fall, initially as an elementary school. Ultimately, they plan to have a fully-articulated K-12 program. The curriculum will be a tradition one, echoing the program established by David Caldwell back in 1767. The school will follow Dr. Caldwell's model. He was the first pastor of Buffalo Presbyterian. In addition to academic subjects, there will also be Biblical instruction. If you want your child to have a traditional, conservative, Christian education, this may be just the school for your child.

The photo was taken from Church Street, across the street from Page High School. Here is the link for the school, if you are interested. The church will be having a picnic on July 16th at 5:00 pm. That would be a great way to meet the people of this church community. As for today, there is Sunday school at 9:45 and church at 11:00. It is pretty impressive to know there is a church in Greensboro whose roots predate our city and also the United States of America! They have values education since the beginning. This church will prove a new venture, for sure!

Eastern Music Festival 2022

Are you ready for the Eastern Music Festival (EMF) 2022?It is back with 60 concerts and events! The events for this 61st season begin tomorrow and last until July 30th. The founder, Shel Morgenstern, created the program at Guilford College in 1961. Young artists from around the world attend the summer program to gain additional instruction, exposure, and performance time as a way to help launch their professional careers as classical musicians. 80% of them receive merit or needs-based scholarships. Musicians are lucky to have this program and Greensboro is lucky to have access to all of this high-quality music. Read more about the history of the festival, here.  Also, see here for the schedule.

The above photo is of Dana Auditorium on the campus of Guilford College. Many of the EMF events are held here. It is always exciting to turn off of Friendly Avenue, drive by Dana Auditorium, and see the flags unfurled, announcing the EMF. This photo was taken a couple of nights ago, when the sun was setting about 8:30. We caught the sunlight, just as it was casting a golden glow on the top of the building. Thank you Guilford College for bringing great events to the community since 1837!

Happy Juneteenth

This is the second year that Juneteenth is celebrated as a federal holiday. Many events were held this past weekend; the actual date is June 19th; however, the federal holiday is today.  Also today, UNCG, NCA&T, and Guilford College will hold Juneteenth events at the Weatherspoon Art Museum on the campus of UNCG. Today's event will feature speakers from all there institutions as well as poetry by Josephus Thompson and music. The 9:30- 11:30 am event is free and open to the public. See here for details.

The above photo is of the courtyard at the Weatherspoon, back at the beginning of April. However, this is the back entrance closest to the parking lot and the view that you will more than likely notice if you come in from the rear of the building. How wonderful that the three campuses are working together and creating a joint celebration open to the community. Hopefully, the event will be well attended. The art museum is not usually open on Mondays so we are extra appreciative that they are making it available for the community.

Congratulations Class of 2022!

Spring is a very exciting time in high schools. Students start getting college acceptance letters and making plans for post-high school. Many students attend prom. Now,  high school graduation season is upon us. In Guilford County Schools, the middle and early colleges start the process with traditional high schools not far behind. Now that Covid is less of an issue, in-person graduation returned and students get a few more tickets to distribute. The first graduations started on May 25th. The above photo is of the Middle College at UNCG.*  Their graduation was on the first day; also graduating on 5/25 were Early College at Guilford, Greensboro College Middle College, Middle College at Bennett, and Kearns Academy.

According to the graduation schedule on the  Guilford County School website, the final day for graduation is tomorrow, Sunday, June 5th with Eastern, Andrews, Dudley, and Page holding graduation ceremonies in the Coliseum Complex. If you see graduates, please congratulate them. Every year, graduation is a milestone; however, this class was deeply affected by the pandemic and all of the changes that came about as a result of having to take classes remotely and, in many cases, having to take part time jobs to help their families. Those smiles in the students above are evidence of the joy and sense of accomplishment they are feeling. Congratulation class of 2022!

 

 

* photo credit Keisha Brown, Principal MCUNCG.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week from Delta Kappa Gamma: Beta Delta

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! The above photo features nine key women educators who are members of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional society for women educators. The organization was founded in 1929 in Austin, Texas. Delta Kappa Gamma came to North Carolina on April, 17, 1936, with the Alpha Chapter in Greensboro. In 1966, the Beta Delta Chapter formed as an outgrowth of the Alpha Chapter, a necessity due to increased membership.  All of the educators in the above photo are members of Beta Delta, and were photographed at the state convention in Asheville last weekend.

From left to right, members include Janis Antonek, Sheila Groves, Elaine McRae, Myra Aderholt, Ann Pember, Lisa Frissen, April Dunovant, Sharon Parks, and Andrea Green. Ms. Dunovant, holding her award, was recognized as a Shining Star, a recent member who is already having a positive influence on the organization. These teachers of Beta Delta want to wish you a happy Teacher Appreciation Week. As schools enter their final weeks before summer, let's all do what we can to let teachers know they are appreciated. As of the 2020-2021 school year, there were 4,770 teachers in Guilford County (reference). May each and every one of these teachers get some positive recognition and affirmation, if not every day, at least this week!

UNCG Spring Open House

Last Saturday, April 9th, UNCG held spring open house for prospective  students and their families. Likely-future Spartans filled campus with curiosity and joy. The above photo features the auditorium at the corner of Spring Garden Street and Tate Street. It was built in 1927 serving as a giant welcome mat, inviting people to campus. It is the easternmost point on campus. The building was designed by Greensboro's own Harry Barton.* On Saturday, the opening welcome was held in this building, followed by college and school information sessions. Afternoon activities took visitors to the residence halls, the Kaplan commons, and the Elliot University Center, and more. Signage was well placed thought out campus and the people positioned outside directing people to the auditorium were very friendly. 

By the time students are ready for college, there can be many options, as opposed to the K-12 setting where students are more inclined to attend their attendance zone school. It is important to make a good first-impression. By all accounts we heard, UNCG did, indeed, represent itself well on Saturday. Having a beautifully sunny day helped make the campus shine. Whether attending high school or college, it is always a good idea to make an on-site visit. Usually, prospective students get a good feel as to whether or not they feel like the institution is right for them. In the case of the college visits, it is a good chance to help give parents peace of mind. May all decisions turn out to be good ones. Happy Wednesday!

For those who weren't able to attend in person, a wealth of information was available online.

*see also, reference and more information, HERE.

Spring is Just Around the Corner

If you were out driving on the north end of Glenwood on Haywood Street, behind the Kaplan Center for Wellness, you would have seen this landscaping crew hard at work. In this day and age, the internet if full of people complaining about others. Our post today is something along the lines of "caught being good"! As we drove by, we noticed everyone on the crew was working quickly and efficiently as a team. We stopped to ask if they were mulching or making major changes; they let us know they were mulching. We drove by their truck to and saw that this crew was truck 23 of Bland Landscaping Company. 

Bland is a full service landscaping company established in 1976. They serve the whole Piedmont area and the Costal Carolinas. Bland doesn't appear to have an office in Greensboro, but they service the area and have some big accounts here and we can see why. Whether you are going to do your own yard work, or if you are going to hire a landscaping company, today's photo reminds us it is time to start scheduling the work

Happy Wednesday!

The Bryan Series: Yusef Salaam

After nearly 3 years, the Bryan Series is back; now in the Tanger Center, and it is glorious. Last night, the series opened with Yusef Salaam. In 1989, Mr. Salam was convicted along with four other teenagers for a rape in Central Park in New York City. The then-teens  became known as the "Central Park Five" and were convicted in the press even before their trial.  The convictions were overturned in 2002. Since the exhoneration, Mr. Salam has dedicated his life to social justice issues, advocating for and educating young people. He has chosen to move on in life, looking forward, not backward. That message rings true in his book "Better, Not Bitter: Living on Purpose in the Pursuit of Racial Justice." Mr. Salam encourages young people, including his own children, to become the change they want in the world and work to break the generational curse.

While Mr. Salam was presenting on stage, his mother called. He took the call! During their brief on-stage conversation and throughout his talk, it became patently clear what a positive force his mother has been in his life. She was there guiding him all throughout the trial, sentencing, and his serving time. She helped him continue to believe in himself  and gave him guidance during those most difficult times. Even before, his mom was a positive force. As a single mom, she knew her 3 children needed positive male role models in their life.  Through the Boys and girls Club os New York City, a male big brother was found for Ms. Salam- a big brother who happened to be an accomplished district attorney and someone who is still in Mr. Salaam's life today.

It was such a thought provoking and powerful presentation. We are lucky to have opportunities to hear such high-quality presentations, and now in a beautiful venue, the Tanger Center!

Note: Thank you Katja Brown and Kim Diop for reminding me to mention we should now refer to these five as "The Exhonerated 5".

GCS School Board Meeting

Yesterday evening, the Guilford County Schools held their regularly scheduled board meeting at 6:00 pm at the Eugene Street building. As we drove by, we noticed a group had assembled outside from 5:00-6:00 pm. The were holding signs requesting schools to tell the truth. They did not say what group they affiliated with but signs said things like, True History Unites. Racism Divides; Tell the Truth PERIOD! and Turning a blind eye on our history has not saved us from its consequences. We were struck at how peacefully the group had assembled.

A lot of discussion at yesterday's board meeting centered around whether or not to continue mandating masks and the extent to which COVID tests should be administered to athletes. The decision has been made to continue wearing masks at least until the next board meeting. These decisions are never easy, but issues need to be discussed and decisions need to be made. We would like to thank all of the school board members for giving their time for the community. If you want to know more or be involved, the school board meetings are always broadcast live. If you want to get a point across, sign up to speak (3 minutes and under), send your representative an email, or, assemble peacefully like the group above.

Happy Wednesday!

Magnet Application Time Is Upon Us!

If you have children of an age where they are attending school, and you live in Guilford County, you probably are well aware that it is magnet application time. It you have children already enrolled in a program, you are helping your school recruit students who will be a good fit for the theme of the program. If you are looking, you have likely found the schools that are the best fit for your children. The Guilford County Schools are known for their school options at every grade level. The above photo was taken at Brooks Global Studies Magnet School. The Sign "Brooks Your #1 Choice" is an impressive advertisement for the school. As you can see from the more permanent sign, donated by Gate City Rotary, reminds us that the magnet application period runs from January 14th to February 21st.

Brooks Global is a year round school, which means that it is on a different calendar than the schools on a traditional calendar. Exciting things are happening at Brooks Global because land has been made available and plans have been drawn up for an all-new, state-of-the-art facility. As wonderful as Brooks is now, it will be even more spectacular when the new building opens. The new location backs up to the arboretum so the new lot will be as wooded as this one. We hope you have a great weekend, and, if you looking at the magnet schools, we hope you find one that is just right for your child.

Happy Friday, some schools are offering virtual sessions today!

Rosenthal Annex on UNCG's Campus

If you like walking in the early morning, likely, you see beautiful scenes like this one where the lighting of dawn intermingles with the lighting inside buildings and houses. Yesterday, we were out walking at 7:00 a.m. and walked past Rosenthal Gym/Annex. Built in 1928, it was originally the Physical Education Building and then the (Joe) Rosenthal Gym. Next, it became part of the Health and Human Performance Building, which is now the Coleman Building.* Fortunately, the University of North Carolina (UNCG) maintains their archives and much of the history of their buildings is available. The gym was designed by Greensboro's own Harry Barton. What we don't know is why the classroom on the corner glows blue in the morning, just before dawn. Do you see those seven windows glowing blue? We don't know why, but they are so beautiful. Those windows match beautifully with the blue of the winter sky.

Happy Saturday! It would be wonderful to run into you out walking on this below-freezing winter day. Yesterday brought us a little snow, just enough to remind us that it is winter.

 

*reference here.

Learning about Day of the Dead at MCUNCG

Dr. Janis L. Antonek, photographed above, is standing beside the Day of the Dead altar she constructed with help from her students and in collaboration with local artist Beka Butts. The exhibit is installed at the Middle College at the University of North Carolina Greensboro (MCUNCG). It is displayed in the hallway for all students to enjoy, not just those taking Spanish this semester. The papel picado/cut paper, the lettering, and the tissue paper flowers were all made by students at the school. The goal of the project is to make it possible for students to make Mexican art and to learn about the practices, products, and perspectives centered around Mexican culture. Even though the theme of MCUNCG is health and life sciences, there are many students at the school who enjoy art. This project is an opportunity to incorporate visual art into the Spanish language curriculum.

The Endowment Grant Committee of the North Carolina Delta Kappa Gamma Educational Foundation awarded Dr. Antonek a 2021 MAXINE AND DON McCALL ENDOWMENT GRANT for Gifted Education or Fine Arts. Dr. Antonek was delighted to receive the grant because it is making it possible to collaborate with local artists, to purchase supplies, and to let students make art. Dr. Antonek says the students really seem to be enjoying learning about Mexican art and culture.

(photo credit T. Hefner).

Fraleigh's Artwork at the Weatherspoon

Looking for something to do this weekend? Head over to the Weatherspoon Art Gallery and experience this exhibit by Angela Fraleigh, entitled, "Splinters of a Secret Sky." It was made especially for Greensboro and the Weatherspoon on UNCG's campus. Fraleigh's three large-scale paintings evoke art from era's past and are inspired by the legacy of Claribel and Etta Cone. The Cone sisters, from the wealthy, entrepreneurial, philanthropic Cone family of Greensboro,  helped establish the Weatherspoon's collection. The Cone sisters traveled in Europe extensive, knew many famous artists personally and collected passionately. Fraleigh's paintings represent women absorbed in each other, as opposed to being painted as subjects of the male gaze. Great always has a twist, food for though. Imagine (and see) these subjects not giving a care about who might be looking at them.

As a special twist on the thought, the two unidentified museum visitors in the right corner were doing a photo shoot, using segments of "Splinters of a Secret Sky" as a backdrop for their photos. Just like the Matisse inspired mural in the background, the two figures to the right are grayscale; quite a contrast from Fraleigh's painted ladies. The Weatherspoon is free, and open to the public. Head to the corner of Tate and Spring Garden streets and have a visit. We bet you will find the art inspiring. Happy Friday!

Leah Junquera

Last Friday, en route to the North Carolina Folk Festival, we happened upon UNCG's Greensboro Project Space where Leah Junquera was installing art for her show. The gallery is the off-campus contemporary art center for the UNCG School of Art. It is in a new location, at 111 East February One Place, right beside Cincy's. Leah is a recent graduate with an MFA in painting. She loves to paint landscapes that focus on the relationships between trees and the earth. Leah is originally from the foothills of the Adirondack Park in New York and the landscape from that area really influences her work. According to her website, "her paintings oscillate between physical landscape and inner space"... and she "investigates where expired hopes go." Her paintings have thought provoking titles like, "Where do we go from here?" and "She sewed all the curtains herself before she even knew the road existed." 

Leah is especially fond of the color blue, all of the hues from turquoise to ultramarine. She has a deep understanding of color theory and it comes through in her paintings. This talented young artist has paintings available in all price points, and we predict her work will become well known. It is so wonderful UNCG has a gallery downtown and you do not have to be UNCG affiliated to show there or to be involved in their events. Community engagement is a priority. The gallery is free and open to the public. If you time your visit just right, you can get a hot dog at Cincy's and see Leah's artwork at the same time. If you are super lucky, Leah will be there you to take you on a mini-journey through her installation.

Happy First Day of School 2021, Guilford County!

Happy first day of school to all of the students, teachers, and staff in the Guilford County Schools (GCS). GCS is the third largest school district in North Carolina. It is the 50th largest in the United States. There are 126 schools and about 70,000 students. With all of those busses, students, and school personnel on the road this morning and afternoon, we will all need to allow extra time to travel and be extra careful to drive 25 mph or under in the school zones. Also, remember to stop when the busses are picking up and dropping off students and the red arm is out. There aren't hybrid schools this year, students are either in person or participating in a virtual-only program. 

The above photo was taken yesterday afternoon in the bus parking lot at Grimsley High School. It had just started raining, creating nice reflections and, hopefully, getting all of that rain out of those clouds for that first day of school. Also, last night was a full, blue moon. Let's hope that full moon is behind us and today will be a perfect day for everyone. This year, in GCS, masks are required. Here's to 100% compliance, making every effort to keep all safe and healthy. Have great school year.

 

 

Tate + Gate

 

Tate Street and Gate City Boulevard are about to change before our eyes! UNCG is building an facility they are calling Arts Place at Tate + Gate. It will be a multi-purpose cultural arts venue at 842 West Gate City Boulevard. Above ground, there will be an art gallery, a performance space, instructional and practices rooms, offices, and even a retail component. Something really innovative is that parking will be underground. The University is billing it as a hot spot for innovation and, according to Chancellor Frank D. Gilliam, Jr., (i)t will be a destination like no other in our state."*  Collaboration between faculty, students, and the community will be emphasized. Partnerships will make it possible for students to gain experience through internships and other types of involvement, which will give them an edge in the job market.

The exterior of the building will have a very sleek and modern look, with lots of natural light coming in. It is as if the exterior and interior blend; perhaps a 21st century version of Frank Lloyd Wright's notion of blending humanity and the environment. It will be interesting to see how the side of the building that backs up to the railroad track will be constructed. Will you be able to watch trains go by? Will there be an effort to minimize noise from the train? The left/west side of the building is bordered by Tate Street and the right/east by Oden Brewing Company. While taking this picture yesterday, from across Gate City Boulevard- or Gate, as it is also called- we could hear the music from Oden. There will be built in libation, food, and live music without having to leave the block. As soon as all of this change takes place, we'll be back for an after photo! 

Happy Monday!

* Reference and read more here.

Breakout: Team Building Fun for the Middle College at UNCG

Today's photo features the staff at the Middle College at University of North Carolina Greensboro (MCUNCG)  at the Breakout Games- Greensboro Escape Rooms. MCUNCG started back to school this week and Principal Keisha Brown, front row center, arranged the Breakout Games experience for her teachers and staff. Three teams of 5-6 participants went into different rooms and had an hour to escape. The goals were to strengthen relationships between staff members, to practice working together for a common goal, and to solve complex problems with a time constraint. The exercise helped build empathy for how students often feel when they are having trouble finding a solution, and reminded teams how much can be accomplished when people cooperate. What a fabulous way to start the school year!

Escape or breakout rooms started in 2004 as a video game in Japan. By 2007, a Japanese company created the tangible escape room experience. This immersive experience came to the United States in 2012 (read more history, here). Escape rooms are examples of the "third place" experiences, a place for people to gather and do something together beyond the home and work setting. They continue to gain popularity and evolve in complexity.

By the end of August, all GCS schools will have eased back into the classroom. Here's to a great school year for everyone.  Hats off to Ms. Brown for creating this meaningful opportunity for her staff. By the way, all three teams escaped within the allotted time, and, for the record, Ms. Brown's team escaped first!

Purple Lights at Montessori School

On Saturday, it was a dark and stormy night... Greensboro had some strange weather this past weekend. On Saturday, the skies darkened early and there was rain, wind, thunder, and lightning. The northwest part of town was experiencing a lot of thunder and lightning. The above photo was taken in the parking lot of the Montessori School on Horse Pen Creek Road. The above photo was taken without any filters. The lighting in the parking lot casts a deep purple glow. As you can see back behind the school, in the eastern sky, it was not yet dark when the photo was taken. Ominous clouds had formed overhead. Fox News did a piece recently that said working LED lights give off no color, but defective versions of the lights emit blue or purple light. Apparently, the defective lights are a nationwide problem. Less than 1.4% is defective and some people are on a mission to find them.*

Don't be fooled by the photo. By day, Greensboro Montessori is a very different place. Established in 1974, the school is committed to providing personalized and hands-on learning for students. This campus has 10 acres with four permaculture gardens, multiple outside play spaces, and more. They also have a 37-acre satellite campus in Oak Ridge. Having hands-on experiences, outdoors in nature is an important part of the Greensboro Montessori experience. However, standing alone in the parking lot, on a dark and stormy night, with even the green apples on a tree looking purple, made the evening eerie, but fun!  If you are ever driving past 2856 Horse Pen Creek Road at night, notice the lighting. If you drive by during the day, notice the creative land use. Happy Tuesday!

 

*read more about the LED purple lights, here.

Goodbye School, Hello Summer

And just like that, school is over for the summer. Today was the last day for students in the Guilford County Public Schools. The above photo features the big send-off at Irving Park Elementary School (IPES), located in the heart of Irving Park. Most elementary schools have the tradition of all teachers going out to say their last goodbyes for the summer, and IPES is no exception. The teachers and students are really close at this school . The only thing better than this last day of school will be the first, in August,  when everyone will return with joy and optimism. All are anticipating that next year will be one where COVID is behind us and masks and social distancing will no longer be needed.

IPES was built in 1928, back when the Irving Park neighborhood was being established and a mere three years after the 350-acre Greensboro Country Club  property was getting established. IPES draws from neighborhoods beyond Irving Park and teachers and staff come from all over Greensboro. Public schools are a wonderful place to develop friendships for people from all walks of life; not only for students, but also for teachers. Once a pirate, always a pirate- hence the pirate flag. Teachers and staff, thank you for all you do, from Day 1 to Day 180! May your summer be restful and rejuvenating. May your students have a great summer, and find time to read at least a few books.  As for the 2020-2021 school year, it was: ONE FOR THE BOOKS.

Frozen, Jr.

Last night theatre students at the Academy at Lincoln performed Frozen, Jr. The performance was held in the staff parking lot in the rear of the school. To be safe, and since rehearsals started just as people were starting to get vaccinated, the play was staged outside.. Theater teacher, Ms. Cassy Whitley wanted to give her middle school students this memorable, culminating activity, especially since many of the actors head off to high school in the fall. The acting, singing, and dancing were superb. The tech crew also did a great job with special effects and with getting props set in place. Threat of rain almost cancelled the special effects, but they ran the show, undaunted, and even had fog, snow, and confetti. Fortunately, the rain held off. As you can see, audience members were captivated. 

It is no wonder Ms. Whitley is Teacher of the Year at her school. She always goes the extra mile for her students. With her guidance, these 4th-8th graders develop skills in all aspects of theatre. Ms. Whitley forewarned the audience that in the event of rain and if she shouted "strike", students would clear all props and equipment in under 30 minutes. There are still 3 more performances-  on Friday (7pm) and Saturday (2pm and 7pm). Arendelle never looked so gook in the open air! It is nice for students to be able to participate in performances again. It is important for the public to know the dedication of our public school teachers. Thank you, Ms. Whitley! And thanks to everyone else who made this show a reality.

Graduating Seniors of Guilford County

These are exciting times for high school seniors. They have returned to in-school learning, are able to have prom, and now, are practicing for graduation. This year, high school graduation ceremonies in Guilford County are being held at the Greensboro Coliseum. It makes sense to have them in one place, as GCS staff can make adjustments as needed. For example, seats are pre-arranged in a way that honors social distance requirements. The above photo features the car of a senior who will be attending East Carolina University. What a feeling of pride this student must have, and it is well displayed on their car. "Pirate Pride; ECU, ON THE WAY!

This has been an especially challenging year to graduate with the majority of the year remotely. Only since March have some of the students resumed in-person learning. To be sure, 2021 is the year to remember! Graduations start this Wednesday and continue through Tuesday, June 8th. The Early College at Guilford is the first ceremony and the program concludes with Southeast High School. If you see a graduate, please congratulate them and wish them luck on the year ahead. Here's to joyful closure and new beginnings!

Southern Conference Softball Championship 2021

The Southern Conference Softball Championship continues today and tomorrow, hosted by UNCG. The above photo, taken yesterday during game 1, features the softball field on the northwest corner of the UNCG campus. * The stadium was built in 2006 on the site of the old softball stadium and this beautiful facility has hosted the Southern Conference Championship every other year since 2014. It also hosted in 2007 and in 2013.

At 12:30 pm today, #1 UNCG will play #2 Western Carolina in Game 4 of the tournament.  Game 5 will be held at 3:00pm with #4 Mercer playing the Game 4 loser. Game 6 will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday with a match up between the Game 4 and 5 winners. If necessary, there will be a Game 6. The Chattanooga team earned the 2019 championship title. Chattanooga lost to Mercer in Game 3 today.

If you love softball or have a child who plays, you should consider attending a game here some year. However, at present, it looks like it is "pass list only", as UNCG is still taking every precaution in these Covid times. Last year the championship was cancelled altogether, so players are super happy to be back out on the fields and looked so ready to play as they filed into the stadium yesterday in their uniforms and representing their universities.

This is the 100th year of the Southern Conference. Let's hope the Spartans take all!  See the conference website here.

ORMA Tower

ORMA, Oak Ridge Military Academy, 2317 Oak Ridge Road (Highway 150)  is located northwest of Greensboro.  It was established in 1850s, before the Civil War, and the buildings and property encompass 38 acres. The school has evolved over the years (read more here), both in curriculum and student population and in the feeling of remoteness. At one time, there was no commercial development around the academy, mostly just a few houses and woods. Today, cadets are within walking distance of a convenience store, Wendy's, a grocery store, McDonald's, and more. Also, many community ball teams play on the ORMA fields. 

The above photo shows the ORMA sign getting painted. It was fascinating to see what may have been the world's largest stencils put in place. The red letters are a bright and bold standout, just west of the chapel and old well. Since 1983, the whole compound, including 21 buildings and "one contributing structure"  have been on the National Register of historic places. We're wondering if that  contributing structure would that be this tower or the old well. ORMA has been a Guilford County resource for 170 years. Let's hope they are thinking ahead for their bicentennial! In the meantime, we need to get back to check on the finished paint job. It is so fun to drive around Greensboro (and the county) and see how everyone is spring cleaning and sprucing up their properties.

Happy Monday!

Elizabeth Hawks Herring Garden

Today's photo features one of the main views at the Elizabeth Hawks Herring Garden. It is located on the northeast side of campus at UNCG. Dr. William B. Herring, MD funded the garden in memory of his wife who was a great lover of music and gardening. So, the garden is perfect in its location beside the school of music. If you read about it (here), The design of the garden takes into consideration the sounds and movement of music. There are also areas conducive to practicing music, and we shared one such example last week. For over 20 years, the garden has delighted students, and the public.

The rock to the left of the birdbath has the following inscription, "No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings." - William Blake. This birdbath is dedicated in the loving memory of Elizabeth Hawks Herring by her many devoted friends and fellow members of the UNCG Musical Arts Guild. September 19, 2004." What a special place. Thank you, Dr. Herring  for this great garden.