Triad Goodwill CEO Gorham to Retire after 33 years

Richard J. Gorham

"GREENSBORO, NC – The Board of Directors of Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc. (Triad Goodwill) announces that Richard J. Gorham has chosen to retire as CEO effective January 6, 2017.   The executive board will conduct a search for the next CEO with Goodwill Industries International, Inc.

“Richard has been an outstanding leader and CEO.  His unique combination of strategic and operating skills, plus his commitment to our mission, employees, customers and stakeholders has redefined Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina and led to an entirely new and better way of serving the communities in which it operates,” said Charles E. Judy, Jr., chairman of the board for Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc.

Under Gorham’s leadership, Triad Goodwill has become a leader within the Goodwill movement. When he first came on board in 1983, the organization was operating in the red and serving only a handful of people. Gorham built the organization into what it is today, employing more than 350 people, providing services to 16,954 people last year, and pumping nearly $60 million dollars back into the local economy.

For the past 15 years, Triad Goodwill has been recognized for operating in the top 10 of the 165 autonomous Goodwill organizations across North America. This ranking is measured per capita with operational capacities in several key categories including mission outcomes, retail sales, donation procurement, and employee tenure, to name a few.

“The succession plan we have in place will keep Triad Goodwill operating smoothly so it can continue its work as the recognized leader for helping people develop the work skills necessary to successfully integrate into the competitive labor market,” said Chairman Judy.

The entire Board of Directors, as well as everyone in the Triad Goodwill family, extends their sincerest thanks for his service, his leadership and his commitment to the organization and its people.

About Triad Goodwill:

Triad Goodwill (Goodwill Industries of Central North Carolina, Inc.) promotes the value of work by providing career development services and work opportunities for people with employment needs. In the past year, Triad Goodwill served 16,954 people in the community and helped place 3,378 workers in competitive employment. 85 cents of every dollar earned at Triad Goodwill’s retail stores goes into their mission."

- A Press Release

Clemmons Hindu temple moving ahead with foundation event despite 2015 gun blasts at sign

"Sri Mata Hindu Temple of Winston-Salem (Winston Salem Hindu Temple) is holding a grand foundation ceremony from October seven to ten on its 7.5 acres plot in Clemmons (North Carolina), first Hindu temple of Forsyth County.

Hindu community seems to be enthusiastic and moving forward with Temple plans despite the sign of planned Temple in Clemmons was hit with over 60 shotgun blasts in July 2015.

Ceremony includes Sanku Staapana, which will be held on October 10 evening during the auspicious time designated between 05:21 pm to 06:46 pm. This Temple, to be built in a traditional way, “would promote community welfare and the welfare of the world”, according to the announcement, which also adds that they “received City/County’s permit to build our temple in August 2016”. Ground Breaking Ceremony (Bhoomi Puja) of the Temple was held on June 11, 2015; and Kumbhabishekam is planned during May next.  

Sri Lalithaambika will be the presiding deity with shrine at the center, while four intercardinal (ordinal) directions will have the shrines for Sri Ganapathy, Sri Aditya, Sri Maha Vishnu (Balaji) and Sri Shiva (shivalingam). Shrines for Lakshmi, Saraswathi and Shirdi Sai Baba are also planned in the phase one; which includes 3,600-square-foot sanctum. Estimated cost of all eight shrines will be $335,000, including $75,000 for Sri Lalithaambika Shrine alone.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada today, commended the spirit of the area Hindu community for keeping their focus on worship and advancing forward with temple plans.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, noted that temple sign shooting incident was shocking for the hard-working, harmonious and peaceful US Hindu community numbering about three million; who had made lot of contributions to the nation and society; to receive such signals of hatred and anger.

Rajan Zed urged North Carolina Governor Patrick L. McCrory, Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Chairman David R. Plyler and Clemmons Mayor Nickolas Nelson to participate in the foundation ceremony to reassure area Hindus. Zed urged fellow Hindus to educate other Americans about Hinduism, the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about one billion adherents; and try to remove misconceptions, if any, about it.

Temple, a collaboration of Om Hindu Organization of North Carolina and Sri Mata Shaktipeetham, is offering opportunity to become a Founder Trustee at minimum contribution of $10,000. According to Temple website, “A Hindu Temple stands for Tranquility, Education, Meditation, Purification, Love and Engagement.”

The construction will be undertaken in three phases, with total cost amounting to about one million USD. When completed, besides sanctuary, it will have a cultural hall for community activities, a dining hall, rooms for educational-cultural-religious classes, etc., Swami Rajendran, Vice Chairman, indicates.

Area Hindus are thankful to the other local communities and faith groups who had offered help. Even the Church across the street lets the temple devotees use its parking, Rajendran adds.

This Temple, when built, will reportedly serve about 500 families who had been travelling to Charlotte (about 75 miles), Cary (about 107 miles) and Morrisville (about 103 miles) for services; besides worshipping in home shrines. Krishna Surabhi is the Secretary."

- A Press Release

UNITED WAY FORSYTH COUNTY KICKSOFF 2016 CAMPAIGN

"United Way of Forsyth County kicked off its 2016 Annual Campaign at the 5th Annual Moonlight Madness Run Aug.26, 2016 at Bailey Park. This was the first year that the United Way sponsored Moonlight Madness which had previously been organized by the city of Winston Salem.

The Kickoff event is the start of United Way’s annual fundraising effort and United Way team members, partner agencies and volunteers were joined by more than 590 participants in the Fun Run and 5K race. Sponsors included Windsor Jewelers, Foothills Brewing, Mellow Mushroom, The City of Winston Salem, RAI and The Millennium Center. Over $14,000 was raised from registration fees .

“It’s wonderful how the community supports the United Way mission of building stronger lives for everyone in Forsyth County,” says John Fox, Chairman, First Tennessee Bank Mid Atlantic Region and the 2016 Community Campaign Chair. “We are so fortunate to live in a community where more than 30,000 donors take part in the campaign each year. People in Forsyth County understand the value of investing in education, financial stability, healthier lives and basic needs of our neighbors.  They recognize that when they give through United Way, we can solve problems that none of us can solve alone.”

The theme of this year’s community campaign is “The Why Behind the Way.” The goals of United Way of Forsyth County reach beyond raising money, but also include educating community members about major issues and encouraging involvement.

“Although we’re proud of our successes, such as investing to help increase high school graduation rates from 71% in 2008 to 85.7% in 2016, many individuals and families in our community continue to struggle on a daily basis.  One in three children and one in four adults live in poverty and that impacts every aspect of their lives,” says Fox. “United Way collaborates and invests with partners to tackle the tough challenges and make a real impact.”

United Way’s annual campaign is a vital part of the organization’s work because the funds raised go to support local programs in the community. Last year, United Way Forsyth County funded forty-four local agencies with $10.8 million in funding focusing on the fundamentals of a good life: health, education, and financial stability.

United Way of Forsyth County believes quality of life relies on education, financial stability, health, and basic needs. All four are critical and interdependent to the collective success of our community. United Way of Forsyth County creates positive change in the community by aligning resources and strategic partners to achieve measurable, lasting results. We invest in improving student success and the high school graduation rate, increasing financial stability among lower-income individuals and families, broadening access to health care and prescription medications to the un- and under-insured, and providing critical assistance to those facing immediate crisis. Learn more about our work and rediscover the why behind the way at www.forsythunitedway.org."

- A Press Release

HPU Announces Academic and Professional Achievements

"HIGH POINT, N.C., Sept. 15, 2016 – High Point University faculty, staff and students recently received the following academic and professional awards and recognitions.

Sigma Nu photo from the left are HPU students and
fraternity members Timothy Aebli, Hayden
Bardorf and Frank Antenuci at the Sigma Nu Grand
Chapter event.

Sigma Nu Receives Grand Chapter Award for Academic Excellence

The Nu Delta Chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity received the Regent's Award for Academic Excellence at this year’s Sigma Nu Grand Chapter event in San Diego. This award is given to chapters that achieve the highest GPA among fraternities on their campus. HPU’s Sigma Nu chapter is set to be awarded its charter this fall. It was the only expansion chapter to receive the award at the Grand Chapter event.

The fraternity’s members attribute their success to maintaining high standards and to the many support systems HPU provides to help students succeed in all facets of their education.

“We are thankful for the numerous resources available at HPU, such as director of Greek Life Teri Cugliari and the Office of Greek Life, which has provided continued support and guidance as we launch a new fraternity on campus,” says senior Frank Antenuci, a member of Sigma Nu. “Although this was achieved by the merits of our members, it would not be possible without HPU’s support.”

Zeta Tau Alpha photo from the left, sorority members
Kristen Kukla, Caylee Henderson, Natalie Yingling
and Emily Anderson accept the Crown Chapter
award at the ZTA international convention.

Zeta Tau Alpha Earns Crown Chapter Award

HPU’s Delta Gamma chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha received the Crown Chapter award at the sorority’s international convention in Phoenix. The award recognizes excellence in recruitment, programming, financial health, reporting and cooperation with the ZTA international organization.

Zeta Tau Alpha also was recognized during the convention for its highly commendable grade point average and for donating more than $53,000 to the ZTA foundation over a two-year period.

Freshman Receives United Methodist Leadership Scholars Award

Freshman Jacob Lancaster, a religion and music major from Albemarle, received the United Methodist Leadership Scholars award from the Southeast Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church. This $10,000 competitive merit-based scholarship is awarded to one student each year. Lancaster, who has a calling to be a pastor, was selected for his academic excellence, leadership and deep involvement with his church, including his service as assistant worship leader. The award is renewable for four years.

Interior Design Professor Recognized for Outstanding Contributions

Dr. Jane Nichols, associate professor of interior design and chair of home furnishings and design, won an outstanding educator award from the Carolina’s Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. The organization of design professionals and educators from North Carolina and South Carolina recognized her for making outstanding contributions to design education that will have lasting impact.

Nichols also recently received an appointment to the Board of Governors of Women in the Home Industries Today (WithIt). She will serve in an advisory role, providing new perspectives and ideas for growing the association. WithIt is a non-profit professional organization that provides leadership development, mentoring, education and networking for women in the home and furnishings industries.

Pharmacy Professor Appointed Section Vice Chair

Dr. Robin Cooke, assistant professor of clinical science in the Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy, was appointed vice chair for the Section of Ambulatory Care Practitioners of the American Society of Health System Pharmacists, which is the leading professional organization for pharmacists who practice in hospitals and outpatient clinical settings. Her section, Ambulatory Care Practitioner's Advisory Group on Medication Therapy Management in the Community, develops and sets standards of practice and care for helping patients manage and adhere to their medication regimens.

“I have been a long-time active member of ASHP, and being elected to this position will provide exposure and recognition for our new School of Pharmacy at HPU,” Cooke says.

Minister to the University Publishes Essay on Campus Ministry

The Rev. Preston Davis, minister to the university, published an essay in the most recent edition of “The Term: A Word for the Campus by the Campus.” This publication of the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education includes essays from ministers at colleges and universities with resources and reflections for preaching and worship throughout the academic term.

Davis’ essay, “Chaplaincy: Simplicity on the Far Side of Complexity,” reflects on how studying the Christian tradition’s understanding of God is actually a way of loving God with one’s mind.

English Professor Featured in ‘About South’ Podcast

Dr. Kirstin Squint, associate professor of English, participated in an interview alongside award-winning Choctaw author LeAnne Howe for the sixth episode of the podcast “About South,” which aired Aug. 12. The episode, titled “It’s About Story,” explored the Native South and issues related to American Indian cultures and literature of the Southeast U.S.

“It was an honor to be interviewed with LeAnne Howe, who I have interviewed in the past and whose work I teach regularly in literature courses at HPU,” says Squint. “We had a really productive and energetic conversation, with topics ranging from Indian Removal to J.K. Rowling. We ended with our hopes for the future of American Indian studies and the South.”

The podcast, co-produced by Georgia State University professor Gina Caison and Louisiana State University doctoral candidate Kelly Vines, investigates Southern culture through conversations with a variety of scholars and artists. The interview is available at http://aboutsouthpodcast.com.

Student Success Coach Participates in CEOs for Cities

Akir Khan, student success coach and adjunct professor, was one of seven leaders from High Point selected to participate in the High Point/Greensboro cluster of CEOs for Cities. The group is part of a national non-profit that connects leaders from across sectors and generations to share ideas and resources for strengthening their communities.

Khan will contribute to the local CEOs for Cities cluster by sharing advice and feedback on educational leadership issues, community building and interfaith relations.

“CEOs for Cities, a national city-learning network, has brought together dynamic groups of established business and community leaders to develop creative and innovative solutions to economic challenges facing our great cities,” says Khan. “It is an honor and a privilege to be asked to serve in this strategic partnership between cities.”

At High Point University, every student receives an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people.® HPU, located in the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina, is a liberal arts institution with more than 4,800 undergraduate and graduate students. It is ranked No. 1 by U.S. News and World Report for Best Regional Colleges in the South and No. 1 for Most Innovative Regional Colleges in the South. HPU was named the No. 4 private school in N.C. for the best return on investment, and it is a 2016-2017 College of Distinction. The university offers 48 undergraduate majors, 51 undergraduate minors and 13 graduate degree programs. It is a member of the NCAA, Division I and the Big South Conference. Visit High Point University on the Web at highpoint.edu."

- A Press Release

VIRGINIA COLLEGE IN GREENSBORO ANNOUNCES “GO FOR THE GOLD” ENROLLMENT EVENT SEPT. 24

Local campus to participate in

national event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"GREENSBORO, N.C. – September 14, 2016 – Virginia College in Greensboro will host “Go For The Gold,” an enrollment event for prospective students and their families on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the campus located at 3740 S. Holden Road. While learning about the educational opportunities available to Greensboro-area students at Virginia College, attendees are also invited to enjoy activities for all ages. The event is part of Virginia College parent company Education Corporation of America’s National Enrollment Event being held simultaneously at 64 other Virginia College, Brightwood College, Brightwood Career Institute and Ecotech Institute locations throughout 16 states.

WHAT:         Virginia College “Go for the Gold” Enrollment Event

WHEN:         Saturday, Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE:      Virginia College in Greensboro - 3740 S. Holden Road, Greensboro, NC 27406

“In the spirit of the recent Rio Olympics, we are excited to host our own ‘Go For The Gold’ event here at Virginia College in Greensboro,” says Campus President Jim Campbell. “It is never too late to pursue a degree in the field you’ve always dreamed of – whether seeking another degree in your field or starting a completely new degree, Virginia College is a great place to make that happen and change your life.”

  

Throughout the event, admission counselors will be on hand to discuss careers that best suit prospective students’ individual skills and interests. Additionally, attendees can tour the campus, hear about the hands-on training approach characteristic of Virginia College programs, meet faculty, students and staff including the Financial Aid office, learn about the application and enrollment process and experience the variety of programs through live demonstrations led by current students. Family friendly activities include a manicure station, vitals checks, culinary demonstrations, “medicinal lollipop” giveaways, computer demonstrations and a hot dog cookout.

For more information about Virginia College in Greensboro, visit www.vc.edu/greensboro. To register for the National Enrollment Event, visit www.vc.edu/gold.

About Virginia College and Education Corporation of America 

Education Corporation of America (ECA) is a category leader in the post-secondary career school market with 70 locations and a current enrollment of over 30,000 students. ECA holdings include Virginia College, Golf Academy of America, Ecotech Institute, Brightwood Career Institute and Brightwood College which are accredited by the Accrediting Council of Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) which is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Holdings also include the fully online New England College of Business which is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

For more information, contact Diane Worthington at diane.worthington@ecacolleges.com or (205) 329-7911."

- A Press Release

Fayetteville Area CVB Revamps Cultural Heritage Trails Website

New, Mobile-Friendly Site Allows Visitors to Create Their Own Custom Trail Experience

"Fayetteville, NC (September 12, 2016) – The Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (FACVB) today announced the launch of several interactive enhancements to its popular Cultural Heritage Trails, including a newly-designed mobile-friendly website, integrated map and GPS technology and custom trail building capabilities, offering users a self-guided tour of the countless unique attractions, restaurants and historical landmarks of Cumberland County.

In addition to popular Cultural Heritage Trails such as the military themed Patriots, Past & Present Trail, the recreational All-American Adventure Trail for active travelers, and the historically rich African-American Heritage Trail, the updated platform allows users to create their own custom trail based on their personal interests.  Whether architecture, cuisine, arts, religion, antiques or the Civil War, the increased mobility of the site gives travelers the opportunity to see it all in one trip. 

These exciting new enhancements are another indication of how the FACVB is working to provide visitors with more advanced tools and resources to enhance their overall experience in Cumberland County.  “By making the trails mobile-friendly, it allows travelers to follow the driving trails in real-time from any device,” explains FACVB President John Meroski. “The modern traveler wants to be able to customize their experience and these technological enhancements make it a seamless process.”

The Cultural Heritage Trails were launched in 2007 through a collaboration between the FACVB, area historians, attractions and 300 citizens. Offering 16 themed driving paths, covering 750+ miles, each trail showcases a different aspect of the community’s cultural or historical background and includes pre-planned routes with maps, addresses, descriptions and photographs. 

The complete list of Cultural Heritage Driving Trails includes:

• African-American Heritage Trail- Explore sites that provide a historical glimpse into the life of African-Americans who resided in Fayetteville and Cumberland County. 
• All-American Adventure Trail-From bird watching and fishing at our many parks to experiencing one of USA Today's 10 Great Ziplines at ZipQuest Waterfall and Treetop Adventure- Nature lovers and active vacationers, this is the experience for you. 
• American Independence Trail- Explore Cumberland Country’s rich Revolutionary War history through a variety of museums, battlefields & other historical sites.
• Civil War Trail- Cumberland County answered the call to duty during the Civil War playing a key role in delaying Union General Sherman’s March to the sea.  This trail features landmarks, battlefields & related historical sites.
• Gaelic Beginnings Trail- America is the land of immigrants and that is certainly true in the Fayetteville area. Start at the beginning of our history with museums, churches and homes founded by early Scottish settlers.
• Historic Architecture Trail- A visit to America’s Hometown would not be complete without admiring and exploring the architectural treasures of the area. The story of the development of this historical area can be told through the structures built long ago, but still stand proudly today.
• Paths, Plank Roads & Planes Trail- Ride along this trail and take a trip back through time as your explore historical railroads, airfields, battlefields & a transportation museum.
• Patri-Arts & Gardens Trail- Find wonderful opportunities to appreciate freedom of expression at its finest and find your best inspiration in our community of History, Heroes, and a Hometown Feeling.
• Patriots, Past & Present Trail- Every corner of America’s Hometown reflects a rich sense of its patriotic culture.  Walk in the footsteps of our forefathers through historical military sites and museums.
• Religious Freedom Trail - The Fayetteville area has a rich diversity of religious heritage. From very early on, religious institutions of all denominations developed throughout the area. Though primarily Christian congregations settled the area first, other religions arrived as the county’s population diversified in ethnicity and nationalities. 
• International Cuisine Trail - There is an old saying around here that goes something like, ‘Point your compass in any direction in Cumberland County and you are bound to come across savory delicacies at every turn.’
• Lafayette Trail - Fayetteville is named for the French proponent of liberty and hero of the American Revolutionary War, Marquis de Lafayette. Follow in the footsteps of his 1825 visit to the city.
• Literary Lanes Trail - Cumberland County is the epicenter of some of the richest stories of American history. That is one of the reasons why you will find volumes of books re-telling our rich heritage across our dozens of libraries and bookstores.
• Second-Hand Treasure Trail - The antique selection you'll find in Cumberland County is broad and rewarding. From vintage furniture to house wares, clothing to toys,  jewelry and civil war memorabilia, you never know what unexpected gem lies around the next corner.
• Historical Markers Trail - Did you know that some of the most important events in America’s history took place in Fayetteville? From General Sherman’s infamous march to Babe Ruth’s first home run to the first African American to serve in Congress, our town is filled with points of archival interest. 
• Fish & Game Trail- Cumberland County has plenty to offer when it comes to hunting and fishing. Here’s everything you’ll need - including a map of all the good spots.

To find out more about the Cultural Heritage Trails, go to www.visitfayettevillenc.com/culturalheritagetrails

About the FACVB:

The Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is a private, not-for-profit organization responsible for positioning Cumberland County as a destination for conventions, sporting events and leisure travel. For additional information about America’s First Military Sanctuary Community, visit www.visitfayettevillenc.comor call 1-888-98-HEROES."

- A Press Release

City of Greensboro Announces Partnership with Mobile App Waze

"GREENSBORO, NC (September 14, 2016) – The City of Greensboro announced a data-sharing partnership with Waze, a free, real-time traffic and navigation app owned by Google. Through the Waze Connected Citizens Program, the City can publish data from multiple departments that Waze can integrate, including road closures, construction and special events so drivers can find alternative routes, helping ease congestion within city limits.

“Partnering with Waze is an example of how the City of Greensboro is committed to using open data and new technology to provide greater services for our residents in very tangible ways,” said Jane Nickles, director of the City’s Information Technology Department. “This is a collective effort between multiple City departments to make local government more efficient and effective.”  

Established as a two-way data share, Waze provides partners with real-time, anonymous incident and slow-down information directly from participating drivers. The City will be able to provide Waze users with advanced notice of major traffic events, such as concerts, festivals and special events that may affect their daily commutes.

“The partnership with Waze and the City of Greensboro will disseminate more up-to-date traffic information to the public, so that safer and more reliable transportation choices can be made by drivers who need to move around Greensboro,” said Adam Fischer, director of the City’s Transportation Department.

According to Waze, there are more than 62,000 monthly active Waze users in Greensboro who drive nearly 17 million miles with the app each month. The Greensboro metro area was also found to have the most overall satisfying driving experience in the US, according to the 2016 Waze Driver Satisfaction Index released Tuesday, September 13.

The Waze app is available for download for IOS and Android at www.waze.com/get ."

- A Press Release

High Point Theatre Announces Date for Inaugural “High Point Has Talent” Competition

Finalists set to perform on October 8 for People’s Choice Award, cash prizes!

"High Point - The Stage is set for the first ever High Point Has Talent event on Oct. 8, 2016. The twenty-five performers selected as finalists after an extensive audition process come from all walks of life, with an age range from 12 years old to mid-70’s. Performances will get underway at 7:00 PM!

High Point Has Talent will feature performances by singers, dancers, stand-up comics, musicians, and singer/songwriters, with music ranging from classical, to patriotic, to hip hop/R&B. An amazing group of performers will be putting their skills on display for the public to see with an opportunity to win cash prizes, and to be seen by regional talent buyers and agents for a shot at advancing their performing career!

Contestants will have an opportunity to win one of four prizes: $500 for first, $250 for second, $100 for third and a special “People’s Choice” award.

HPHT is a new fundraising event for the Friends of the High Point Theatre, the non-profit volunteer arm of the High Point Theatre. This event will replace the long standing Cabaret, which was a City of High Point owned staple of the Friends for 27 years.  David Briggs, Director of High Point Theatre noted “The Cabaret event was very popular, but the Friends decided that they needed to broaden the horizons, bring a new type of show, and create a special event that will be enjoyed by many more people.” Leslie Graham, a Friend and Volunteer at the theatre said, “This is an exciting way to help create our audience for the amazing talent found in our area.”

 

Tickets for High Point Has Talent are $15, tax included, available through the High Point Theatre Box Office, in person or by calling (336) 887-3001 during regular business hours (Mon-Fri, noon-5PM).  Tickets may also be purchased on-line by visiting www.highpointtheatre.com. Online tickets are subject to a convenience fee. Visit the ‘official’ High Point Theatre website in order to avoid ticket re-sellers.

 # # #

About High Point Theatre                                                                                                                                                                     

Owned and operated by the City of High Point, the High Point Theatre is conveniently located within

the International Home Furnishings Center at the corner of Commerce Avenue and Hamilton Street

in High Point. The Theatre features an elegant 965-seat auditorium with continental style seating,

three exhibition galleries for meetings, display, or receptions, and free parking."

- A Press Release

THE NCBRC PRESENTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF THE STING OF WHITE ROSES

The North Carolina Black Repertory Company Presents the World Premiere of The Sting of White Roses

By Angelica Chéri

October 7-16, 2016

The North Carolina Black Repertory Company (NCBRC) kicks off its 37th Season, The Comfort of Faith, with the World Premiere of The Sting of White Roses, written by Angelica Chéri, and directed by NCBRC Artistic Director Jackie Alexander.

The Sting of White Roses tell the story of David Seed, who on the verge of welcoming his first child into the world, returns to the place he feels most safe; his mother's home. But as he and his wife prepare to welcome this brand new life, his wife's body betrays her, and for the first time David meets an illness that he's not sure his anointed voice can heal. Examining the effects of breast cancer on a family while highlighting the strength found

In one's faith, playwright Angelica Chéri notes: "I wrote The Sting of White Roses because I needed to explore the painful intricacies of my mother's passing from breast cancer, both for my own personal healing and the healing of other people who have lost a loved one to illness. The play offers no answers as to why these tragic things happen, but rather it presses in on the importance of maintaining one's faith during these battles."

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, NCBRC will host a number of special events in conjunction with the production, highlighted by an art exhibit of original paintings by Janie McGee titled Mamie's Tea in Pink. The exhibit will feature works depicting vintage and retro afternoon tea parties, quiet times of prayer, and sisterhood.

The exhibit was birthed from the Pink Diva Series that McGee started several years ago to bring color and faith to Breast Cancer Survivors in the Black community. All paintings will be available for purchase through a silent auction during the exhibit, with 20% of the proceeds, along with $1 from every ticket sale, being donated to Susan G. Komen Northwest NC.

Other special events include:

10/8 - Talkback with medical professionals following 3pm show

10/9 - Shades of Hope Day: Talkback with the Komen NWNC Shades of Hope African-American Outreach Committee following 3pm show

10/15 - Talkback with Pastors Mike and Darla Rakes of Winston Salem First following 3pm show

10/15 - Talkback with Komen NWNC Faces of Breast Cancer following 8pm show

Executive Director Nigel D. Alston states: "I am excited about the events planned, our partnerships, and community engagement. It's an experience you do not want to miss!"

This project was supported by the N. C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources. The North Carolina Black Repertory Co receives operational funding from The Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County.

The Sting of White Roses features Jalila A. Bowie, Perri Gaffney*, Brandon D. Jones, Eboni Keita, and Derrick Parker*.

*Members of Actors' Equity Association

Music Composer - Edward Anderson; Set/Lighting Designer - Arthur Reese; Costume Designer - Frenchie Laverne; Stage Manager - Taylor Murrell

Stay connected with us on Social Media

NCBRC Facebook Page

Instagram

Twitter

BENNETT STUDENT SELECTED AS ONE OF 73 HBCU ALL-STARS

Bennett Junior Asheley Taylor  "GREENSBORO, NC — Bennett Junior Asheley Taylor was selected by the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities as one of the 73 HBCU All-Stars for 2016 for her accomplishments in academics, leadership, and civic engagement.  “I am honored to be chosen to represent my institution in the HBCU All-star program because I believe that being proactive doing things and leading by example is the first step to getting our institution further up the list of top HBCUs,” said Ashley, who is majoring in psychology. “I believe that Bennett is a great institution and the genuine love I have for my school was reflected in my essay.  Although I am a junior credit wise this is only my second year here at Bennett College and I have seen a tremendous amount of growth that has taken place in my life.” The All-Stars were selected from more than 300 students who attend HBCU’s in 24 states, the District of Columbia, Ghana, Nigeria and the Virgin Islands. “During the course of one academic school year, the 73 All-Stars will distinguish themselves as exemplars of the talent that HBCUs cultivate and as noble ambassadors of their respective institutions,” said U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. “The Initiative is looking forward to working with this third class of All-Stars and is confident this opportunity will allow the Initiative to meaningfully connect with HBCU students and advance academic excellence at their schools.” Over the next year, the students will serve as ambassadors by providing outreach opportunities and communicating with other students about the value of both education and the Initiative as a networking source. Using social media, relationships with community-based organizations, and sessions with industry professionals, the students will share proven practices that support opportunities for all young people to achieve their educational and career potential.  They will also participate in the White House HBCU Week Conference, national and regional events, and webinars with Initiative staff and other professionals on a range of disciplines that support a spirit of engagement and personal and professional development. “We're looking forward to working with this new class of HBCU All Stars,” said Deputy Under Secretary of Education and Acting Executive Director White House Initiative on HBCUs Kim Hunter Reed. “Our goal is to provide a unique opportunity for these talented students that exposes them to critical national conversations and thought leaders. No doubt they will make their mark and represent their campuses well.” Taylor has been involved in campus life at Bennett.  She served as sophomore class secretary for the 2015-2016 academic year and was also involved as a Student Ambassador, member of the Psychology Club and the Student Union Activities Board FOCUS group.  This year she serves as president of the Student Ambassadors and  Vice  President of the Psychology Club.  Among her honors and achievements are being selected as a Tom Joyner Foundation Scholarship Recipient and as a Summer Medical/Dental Enrichment Program Scholar. She is the daughter of John Taylor of Durham, N.C." - A Press Release