Greensboro is gearing up to celebrate the first day of Kwanzaa, known as Umoja, at the Peeler Community Center. The event, hosted by the Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective, is part of a week-long celebration of African history, values, family, community, and culture. Kwanzaa has been celebrated in the U.S. since 1966 and runs until January 1. The festivities are free and open to the public, offering a range of cultural and educational programs. The first day celebration will begin at 6 p.m., highlighting the Swahili word Umoja, meaning unity.
In other news, as the year draws to a close, it is a time to reflect and remember those who have left a lasting impact on our lives. While top-notch celebrities often dominate year-in-review lists, it is important to acknowledge regular people who have made a significant impact on their communities. Three such individuals, Homer Sides, Tattoo Joe Crosson, and Rudolph Valentino Boone Sr., have recently passed away, leaving behind legacies that have enriched the lives of many.
Homer Sides, with his vision and love for Christmas trees, played a vital role in establishing a booming Christmas tree industry worth $100 million annually. Starting by selling cedars at the City Market, Sides ventured into growing trees in Davie County and recognized the superiority of native firs from the North Carolina mountains. His efforts led to the commercial farming of Christmas trees, and his biggest honor was having one of his Fraser firs selected as the official White House Christmas tree in 1972.
Tattoo Joe Crosson was known for leading a colorful life, working variously as a fire-eater, tattoo artist, snake handler, and musician. However, what many might not know is that in his later years, Tattoo Joe went out of his way to bring joy to residents of retirement homes who often lacked visitors. He would entertain them with stories and play their favorite tunes on his harmonica, dedicating his time to making their lives brighter. Tattoo Joe passed away at the age of 87.
Rudolph Valentino Boone Sr., fondly known as Mr. Boone, was a respected figure among generations of students in Forsyth County, particularly at Carver High School, where the music room bears his name. Boone, an Army veteran, integrated the U.S. Army band and served diligently after World War II. Following his military service, he dedicated 30 years to teaching as the band director at Carver, impacting countless lives through music education. Boone passed away at 96 years old.
These individuals may not have achieved global fame, but their contributions to their communities hold immense value. As we remember them and their unique legacies, let us honor their dedication, passion, and the positive impact they had on the lives of those around them.
