FEBRUARY 2026 FEBRUARY 2026
On February 11, the High Point community gathered for the Woolworth Sit-In Community Prayer Vigil, hosted by the Feb. 11 Association, to reflect, remember, and honor the extraordinary courage of those who stood up for justice, dignity, and equality.
The vigil commemorated the historic sit-in at the former F.W. Woolworth store in downtown High Point, one of many pivotal acts of peaceful protest that helped ignite change during the Civil Rights Movement. Inspired by the bravery of the four young men from North Carolina A&T State University who launched the movement in Greensboro on February 1, 1960, students and local residents in High Point took their own stand.
On February 11, 1960, at the Woolworth lunch counter, William Penn High School students Mary Lou Blakeney and Andrew Dennis McBride, along with High Point Central High School students Miriam Lynn Fountain and Brenda Saunders Hampden, planned a sit-in. Although it was not the first sit-in, it is thought to be among the first organized primarily by high school students. Their quiet determination challenged injustice and became a powerful symbol of nonviolent resistance.
During the prayer vigil, community leaders, clergy, students, and residents joined together in remembrance. Through prayer, reflections, and shared stories, attendees honored the legacy of the young people who risked their safety and futures to demand equal treatment. The program served as both a tribute and a reminder that the fight for dignity and fairness requires continued courage and collective responsibility.
The Feb. 11 Association emphasized the importance of preserving this history for future generations. By coming together each year, the community ensures that the lessons of that day remain alive. It’s not simply a date in history, but it’s a call to action. The sit-ins were not only about access to a lunch counter; they were about affirming humanity, standing firm in faith, and believing that change was possible.
The vigil created space for reflection on how far we have come and how far we still have to go. It was a powerful reminder that ordinary individuals, united by purpose and conviction, can spark extraordinary transformation.
The association continues to lead efforts to educate, commemorate, and inspire, ensuring that the legacy of the Woolworth sit-in remains a guiding light for justice in High Point and beyond.
HIGHPOINTMUSEUM CELEBRATESAMERICA250 WITHYEAR-LONGFREE EVENTSANDPROGRAMS
The High Point Museum is proud to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with an exciting calendar of engaging and educational programs throughout 2026. As part of the nationwide semi-quincentennial commemoration, the Museum will host a wide range of free events, exhibitions, and historical experiences designed to deepen understanding of our nation’s founding and diverse stories.
“In this significant year, we invite the public to explore the history that shaped our nation and connected our local community to the broader American story, ” said Museum Director Edith Brady. “From historical crafts to thought-provoking discussions and living history demonstrations, there’s something for all ages to enjoy and learn from. ”
The America 250 schedule features events each month:
FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS
To Form a More Perfect Union exhibition (Feb. 7–28) & Limits of Freedom exhibition (Feb. 7–Mar. 5)
s of High Point (Feb. 21) – recognize and honor the High Pointers who became the first African Americans to serve in the United States Marine Corps.
Let’s Craft! Tricorn Hats in Little Red Schoolhouse (Feb. 28)
SPRING AND SUMMER PROGRAMMING
Create a Time Capsule (Mar. 7) take part in a family time capsule activity for the Global Day of Unplugging
Let’s Craft! hands-on historic crafts like American Flag Fans (April 11) and Make Your Own Flag (June 13).
America 250 Guilford County Time Capsule Ceremony (April 18)
Historical Park experiences sachet making (April 18), Revolutionary Women demonstrations (May 9), gardens and flowers programming (May 23), Law and Order in the Historical Park (June 20) and quill pen writing (Jul. 11).
FALL AND WINTER EVENTS
Historical Park experiences — Medicine in the Historical Park (Aug. 8), historical education demonstrations (Sept. 12), Mourning in the Park (Oct. 10 & 17) and Indigenous Cooking and Open Hearth Cooking Demonstrations (Nov. 14 & 21).
A festive Scottish Faire in the Historical Park (Dec. 19) celebrating traditional Hogmanay and Yule customs.
In addition to Museum programming, America 250 activities include community talks and book club gatherings at the High Point Public Library exploring revolutionary history and foundational moments in American government and society.
All America 250 events at the High Point Museum and Historical Park are free and open to the public, with many designed to be family-friendly and sensory-inclusive. A full schedule can be found on the Museum’s website and will be updated as more programs are confirmed.
HIGHPOINTMUSEUMHOSTS TWOAFRICANAMERICAN HISTORYEXHIBITS
The High Point Museum hosted two African American history exhibitions in celebration of Black History Month, which opened on Feb. 7. “To Form a More Perfect Union” from Thankful Heritage Museum will be in the education classroom and ran through Feb. 28. “Limits of Freedom” from the UNCG History Department will be in the changing gallery and will run through March 5.
“To Form a More Perfect Union” features a collection of African American stamps, including those issued by the United States Postal Service in 2005 to honor historic Civil Rights milestones. The Thankful Heritage Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to the preservation of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. The museum offers a rich story that depicts the struggle and success of a race and culture that has embedded its stake in the fabric of history.
“Limits of Freedom” is from the UNCG History Department with assistance from the America 250 North Carolina initiative, administered by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. This exhibit explores the lives of free and enslaved African Americans in Guilford and Rockingham Counties in early U.S. history. Passed down through the generations, the stories in this exhibit help bring about a better understanding of the early days of two of North Carolina’s most influential counties. “While the American Revolution achieved freedom from British rule, it didn’t immediately translate to personal freedom and autonomy for all in the new United States. It was only the beginning of the pursuit of liberty for African Americans, ” said Museum Director Edith Brady. “As we enter our nation’s 250th year, these exhibits honor the persistence of African Americans in lifting our nation toward a greater fulfilment of the ideals set out in our founding documents. ”
Library Administration and the Friends of the Library hosted a reception honoring library staff members who had reached employment milestones in 2025. Many of the library staff members were unable to attend the City reception in December.
Mary Sizemore, Library Director, and Jonathan Furr, Assistant Library Director, presented the certificates and pins to the staff members, along with each staff person’s supervisor. The staff recognized were:
25 years of service
Justin Asbell
10 years of service
Stephanie Conover
Martyn Jones
Ben Pearce
Tina Hinzman
5 years of service
Sherette Gregory
Sarah Nareau
Elizabeth Blanchett
Audrey McCook
Jennifer Ray
We appreciate the dedication and years of service of the above library staff members.
Group picture (left to right): Audrey McCook, Sarah Nareau, Sherette Gregory, Ben Pearce, Justin Asbell, Elizabeth Blanchett, and Stephanie Conover (Not pictured: Martyn Jones, Tina Hinzman, and Jennifer Ray)
The High Point Public Library, in partnership with the High Point Historical Society, presented its first library centennial program on February 21 at the Community and Neighborhood Development Center, the former site of the Washington Street Branch Library.
The program was a panel discussion entitled, “Exploring the Legacy of the Washington Street Branch Library, ” and the panelists were Stephanie Boulware, Administrative Coordinator, High Point Community Development & Housing Dept., Jakki Davis, cofounder and executive director of D-UP, Inc., and Rishaunda Moses, Director of Community Engagement and Partnership, D-UP, Inc.
The panelists had an engaging discussion, sharing their memories of visiting the Washington Street Branch and its impact on the Washington Street community. Through those remembrances, the discussion led to how the legacy of the library and other cornerstone organizations like the YMCA led to the Community and Neighborhood Development Center moving to Washington Street and the creation of D-UP and its exciting vision for the future.
The link to the recording for this program can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=0U fGxY3e c&list=PLQaT2lILROJtENYP3SIAa5CQEZfQqn075&index=1
Thanks to the High Point Historical Society and the High Point Museum for partnering with us for this program.
The library will be presenting a similar centennial celebration program in March for Women’s History Month, as another partnership with the High Point Historical Society. This program will be on Wednesday, March 18, at 10 am at the High Point Museum. The title is “Ladies Who Lead: High Point’s Educational Pioneers” .
This time, we’ve invited panelists who will speak on the legacy of women in leadership roles in High Point who had significant impacts on education and related efforts in High Point in its past, present, and future. Special recognition will go to the High Point Woman’s Club which was the driving force in the creation of a public
GOLF DIRECTOR EARNS ELITE U.S. KIDS
TOP 50 MASTER COACH HONOR
Please join High Point Parks & Recreation in congratulating our Director of Golf, Jimmy Bayne, Jr. On Jan. 21, Jimmy was named a U.S. Kids Top 50 Coach for the second time, which means he has achieved U.S. Kids Top 50 Master Coach status, along with only 11 of his peers from across the country this year. He also received a PGA Junior League “GameChanger” award for player engagement.
U.S. Kids Golf, founded in 1996, is a leading organization in developing young golfers. This recognition honors coaches who have excelled in developing players, fostering a positive environment and using the best available resources to help advance their students. Its foundation hosts more than 1,600 tournaments globally – including the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship held annually in Pinehurst, N.C.
Candidates are evaluated by a selection committee based on a variety of factors. These include innovation, creativity, retention, communications, parental engagement, organization and the ability to instill a passion for the game in young golfers.
HIGH POINT HEROES CLUB CONNECTS VETERANS THROUGH RECREATION, WELLNESS AND COMMUNITY
High Point Parks & Recreation is proud to offer the High Point Heroes Club to area veterans and active-duty military members. This program offers a variety of recreation-based events that promote wellness and a supportive community for social connection and guided leisure activities.
In February, the group enjoyed a relaxing evening of pottery painting. The next get together will be an archery class on Friday, March 13 at 5:30 p.m. at Morehead Recreation Center, 101 Price St., High Point. Space can be limited; please RSVP by sending an email to highpointheroes@highpointnc.gov by March 6.
FINAL DECLAN’S PLAYGROUND TO BE BUILT IN HIGH POINT, HONORING A LEGACY OF JOY AND PLAY
High Point Parks & Recreation is so happy and honored to share that the seventh - and final - Declan's Playground will soon be under construction in High Point! Thanks to our longtime partnership and generous support from The Declan Donoghue Foundation, this very special play structure will replace an existing one, all in honor and memory of a very special little boy.
Declan Donoghue was only two years old when he passed away in 2010 from a rare immune genetic disorder. His life, though short, was filled with family, friends, pets - and the joy of play. Before the news of his passing had even been printed in the newspaper, his parents had created the vision and mission of the Declan Donoghue Foundation.
Four initial playgrounds were built in Kernersville and Greensboro; Declan's fifth playground was dedicated at the Johnson St. Sports Complex in 2017, followed by the sixth at Deep River Recreation Center in 2020. Details regarding the location and dedication of the seventh and final Declan's playground will be shared soon.
On Monday, Feb. 16 Declan's mom Nicole made a presentation to the High Point City Council asking for approval on the installation of this meaningful addition to the High Point community and its children. "Thanks to you, and our partnership, " she said on Monday, "Declan's spirit of play lives on. "
HIGH POINT ATHLETIC COMPLEX PLAYGROUND
2920 School Park Road
Playground opened on Feb. 17, 2026
HIGH POINT PARKS & RECREATION CELEBRATES NATIONAL THERAPEUTIC RECREATION MONTH AND HONORS CERTIFIED SPECIALISTS
Therapeutic recreation, also known as recreation therapy, uses recreation to help people improve their physical, mental, and social health. It improves quality of life though holistic approaches focused on mind, body and spirit. It can help with health issues and increasing independence, mobility, and range of motion. Our hope is that it leads to stronger connections with family and the community.
February is National Therapeutic Recreation Month, and High Point Parks & Recreation is proud that four departmental employees are both Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRSs) and Licensed Recreational Therapists (LRTs). Two work as part of our ASPIRE team; one is based in a recreation center, and one manages the Culler Senior Center. All add great value to the programs we offer to our community as they work alongside our talented programming professionals.
Please meet our CTRS/LRT team, clockwise from top left: Mildred Fisher, Leanne Lyons, Timpani Troxler and Christie Shine! #MyHighPointParksAndRec
PROMOTIONS
BENJAMIN JOYCE
Fire Captain II to Fire Battalion Chief
CHAD PENDRY
Fire Equipment Operator I to Fire Captain I
CHARLES WILSON
Fire Equipment Operator II to Fire Captain I
CHRISTOPHER KLUTZ
Fire Equipment Operator II to Fire Captain I
JEREMY BARNES
Fire Captain II to Fire Battalion Chief, Admin
JOSEPH BRADSHAW
Fire Chief, Assistant to Fire Chief, Deputy
JULIAN NEEL
Sanitation Equipment Operator III to Sanitation Supervisor
KENNETH LEWIS
Fire Equipment Operator I to Fire Captain I
PROMOTIONS
KEVIN ALPHIN
Fire Equipment Operator II to Fire Captain I
MICHAEL ALLEN
Sanitation Equipment Operator III to Sanitation Supervisor
RAYMOND BLUE
Fire Equipment Operator II to Fire Captain I
ROBERT MODE
Landfill Equipment Operator to Landfill Equipment Operator, Lead
TRAVIS THOMPSON
Fire Chief, Deputy (interim) to Fire Chief Deputy
NEW HIRES
ALLISON KRAFT
Water Resources Director
ANDRICK MARTINEZ CASTELLANOS
Wastewater Operator I
AVERY CLODFELTER
Administrative Specialist I
BRANDON BAILES
Power Line Technician I
BRANDON WILLIAMS
Groundskeeper I
CHRISTIAN NEWSOME
Sanitation Equipment Operator I
CHRISTOPHER FARMER
Sanitation Equipment Operator I
CORY BARTLETT
W/S Plant Mechanic I
DANIEL JONES
LANDFILL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
DANIEL TRAVIS
TRANSIT MAINT TECHNICIAN I
DYLAN KING
WASTEWATER OPERATOR I
EDWARD MOORE
SANITATION EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I
JAMES OURS
SANITATION EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I
JAVON PICKARD
GROUNDSKEEPER I
JUAN RUIZ
MRF EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
KEATON PATTERSON
MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I
KYSEAN HINSON
Motor Equipment Operator I
LAURYN JAMES
Library Assistant
PARIS REYNOSA
Environmental Specialist I
ROBERT BROWN
Crime Scene Technician I
