Julie-Luck's Blog

Almost half of teenagers are having sex.  You may object for religious, moral or practical reasons but the numbers do not lie, according to teenpregnancy.org.   Here are some alarming facts:

-47% of high schoolers (9-12th grade) reported having sex

-More than 750,000 teens get pregnant a year.  Of those, 80% are unintended

-The United States has the highest rate of teen pregnancies and births in the Western industialized world

Felesha Wiles, a new teenage mother in Davidson County, is an example.  She got pregnant at 12 and gave birth at 13.  Her baby, Joshua, is now 8 weeks old. 

Felesha wanted to tell her story.  She believes she can set an example to other teens to be more responsible, whether it be practicing safe sex or abstinence. 

While she loves her baby, she realizes her circumstance is far from ideal.  In fact, statistics show only a third of teen mothers receive their high school diplomas.  80% end up on welfare.

Felesha is now being home-schooled.  She hopes to break the cycle of pregnancy and poverty despite a tremendous responsibility at a very young age to raise a child.  Her story is meant to create dialogue between parents and their children and to talk about the consequences of unplanned pregnancy.

Experts say teens who have have a strong bond with their parents are less likely to become sexually active at an early age and less likely to have an unplanned pregnancy.

Just when air traffic at the Piedmont Triad International Airport seemed to be taking off, a possible setback.

It was just recently that PTI credited Allegiant Air and Skybus for helping attract travellers to fly out of PTI.  In fact, PTI reported traffic increased 4 and a half percent from Nov. 2006-Nov. 2007.  But FOX 8 News has received word that one of the discount carriers, Allegiant Air,  is suspending its flight schedule.

Allegiant Air blames rising fuel costs for cancelling its flights from PTI to the Orlando and Tampa areas in Florida.  Service will discontinue at the end of May.  Coincidentally, it was May of last year when Allegiant Air began its service at PTI.

For those of you who have flown Allegiant Air, what do you think of this news?  If you travel to the Orlando or Tampa-areas often, what is your back-up plan?  Is this just a sign of the times?  You may recall Skybus recently announced it was cutting some of its flights at PTI as well... also because of the rising cost of fuel.

I must admit.  I am jealous.  Today, Davidson College trustees announced it will pay for students to attend the Sweet 16 game versus Wisconsin.  That's right!  300 Davidson College students will travel to Detroit for the Midwest Regional at NO CHARGE!  Free bus ride, two nights of lodging and a ticket to the game.  Now that is a Sweet 16 Deal! 

Anyone who follows college hoops knows getting a ticket to an NCAA Sweet 16 game is difficult and expensive.  Furthermore, to witness your team (the darlings of the 2008 Tourney), battle it out to advance to the Elite Eight will be an unforgettable experience.

As many people will tell you, the college years are the best years of your life.  Congratulations to the basketball team for beating the odds and making it to the Sweet 16 in almost four decades.  Congratulations to the Wildcat fans who got the golden ticket to Michigan.  Consider yourselves fortunate for an opportunity that you will remember for the rest of your lives. 

North Carolina has so much to offer.  The mountains, the beaches, and of course the famed Pork Chop Sandwich.  After living in the Piedmont for two years, I finally visited Mt. Airy to see Mayberry in person. 

Jennifer Sposato (my friend and FOX 8 producer) and I walked along Main street, window-shopped and toured the museum. Our final destination was The Snappy Lunch. 

What a great experience!  The restaurant's staff couldn't have been nicer and the pork chop sandwich did not disappoint.  It was huge!  The thick piece of tender pork is battered and fried and comes with chili, cole slaw, mustard, onion and tomato.. all for just $3.75.  Yummy!  Jen and I ate the whole thing.  If you never have tried one of these famous sandwiches, please take a trip to Andy Griffith's hometown.  You will get to meet Junior, the master at frying the pork, Charles Dowell, the owner and originator of the pork chop sandwich, and Mr. Dowell's lovely and hospitable wife, Mary.  Here are some photos I took of that special day!

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to buying stocking stuffers, I like to buy goods made in North Carolina.  For example, one year I purchased Moravian cookies produced in Winston-Salem and shipped them to my extended family in California.  Last year, I bought candles made by a Greensboro woman named Kelly Cutts.  My aunts/uncles/cousins loved them!

Since Christmas is coming, it's time to buy more Made in NC products.  I recently visited the Farmer's Market for some ideas.  Homemade soap?  Honey?  If you have a suggestion, please post it!  I'd appreciate your help. 

Like so many others in the Piedmont, I've had the privilege to witness the meteoric rise of Chris Daughtry.  Since American Idol is seen on FOX, WGHP follows the contestants closely. 

In September of 2005, FOX 8's Shannon Smith interviewed a 25 year old man and lead singer of a local band, Absent Element who auditioned for American Idol.  I met Chris back then in the early stages of the try-outs, not at a press conference but at a chance meeting at the airport.  My impression:  he was hip, friendly yet reserved, and humble.  I recall saying to him jokingly, "Don't forget about us little people."  Like most local supporters,  I had an inkling that he would go far in the American Idol competition.  Little did I know how successful he would become.

Fast forward to today.  His band, Daughtry, has been nominated for three American Music Awards.  His hit songs are regularly played on the radio.  Simply put, he has hit the Big Time.

Before I interviewed him for my story, I was a bit concerned.  Did the fame and fortune go to his head?  Had he become such a huge success, did he forget about his roots?  Did life as a rockstar jade him?  Did he transform into a stereotypical diva star? 

My worries were put at ease quickly.  Once photojournalist Tim Bateson and I were allowed past security,  Chris was waiting for us backstage at the Dorton Arena.  He immediately hugged me (like we were old friends), then we were shuffled off to a room to conduct the interview.

As you'll see in my story (and during the unedited interview), Chris hasn't developed an inflated ego and seems to have stayed grounded.  Sure, his life has changed drastically now that he's a successful recording artist .  But he's a just a guy who likes fast food, enjoys the precious moments of being a couch potato, and spends as much time with his family in Guilford County as possible.  What a relief!  He hasn't forgotten his roots.

Please watch my unedited interview with Chris.  He reveals when Daughtry will record their second album.  He also talks about the one thing he can't get enough of!  If the interview is a bit too long for your enjoyment, check back in a few days.  I'll give you the answers.

What would we do without our mothers?

They always are there to lend an ear, to congratulate, to console, to support.

 

Never have I felt more fortunate to have such a loving and caring mother than this past weekend.  I had to undergo minor surgery and guess who was there at the surgical center (besides doctors and nurses, of course)?    My Mom.  She flew all the way from California to take care of me.  She volunteered to come.  She booked her flight the moment I told her about the procedure.

While I am recovering, she is cooking enough food to feed a small army, checking on my progress, walking the dog, cleaning the house, the list goes on and on.

 

There is no way I can ever repay her (not just for this but for all the years of being a great mom.)  All I can do is always be grateful, never forget how special she is, and remind myself how lucky I am to be her daughter.

I know I am not alone.  Why do you love your mom so much?

Paying your dues.  Earning your stripes.  Climbing the ladder.  Whatever you want to call it, success comes after plenty of hard work and investing lots of time.

Let's take doctors for example.  In order to practice medicine, they must receive an undergraduate degree, go to medical school, complete an internship, suffer through residency, and pass the difficult medical boards.  This grueling process takes years and not everyone can rise to the challenge.

I know I am comparing apples to oranges but there's a similar process for broadcast journalists.  Take my friend and colleague, Neill McNeill for example.  After graduating from UNC in the 1980's, he started his journalism career at WGHP as a general assignment reporter.  He's worn many hats since then... as weekend, morning and noon anchor and now primary anchor.  For more than two decades, Neill worked his way up at WGHP and continued to be promoted by proving himself as a serious journalist, gaining the trust of viewers, and earning their respect.

There's a woman who recently was awarded the same title of Anchor.  Her name is Lauren Jones, the 'star' of the reality show Anchorwoman which will make its debut tonight.  Her experience:  former wrestler and bikini model.  She has no background in television news except for the fact that she's been on TV before. 

Is this fair?  What do the other employees at the station in Tyler, TX think about Ms. Jones catapulting her way to the top of the ranks, without any experience? 

I'm sure at some point in your life, you've been passed over for a job by someone who had less experience than you. It's happened to me.  And it sure doesn't feel good. 

According to the reviews, Ms. Jones apparently has some talent, which is fortunate since she has said that she wants to continue a career in TV News.  She is lucky to be given this rare opportunity as a beginner.  Most likely, she will become an instant star thanks to the reality show, but she can't become an instant credible journalist.  That takes years.

My new weekend pasttime is visiting the Piedmont Triad Farmer's Market.  It's easy to get lost in all the different produce on display.  I didn't know there were so many different varieties of tomatoes!   Silver King and Silver Queen corn, what's the difference?  Melons, blackberries, flowers and herbs... the list goes on and on.  Plus, the prices can't be beat!

What I like most about buying farm fresh produce is knowing that I'm supporting our local farmers.  That inspired me to focus on a movement called Slow Food for an Inspired Living segment.  Essentially, Slow Food is a concept that promotes local products and supports area farmers. 

Not only are individuals supporting the idea, businesses are taking part.  Check out my TV story entitled "Slow Food."  In the piece, I was fortunate to interview Brad Semon, the new owner of Revival Grill in Greensboro, and its chef, Bryan Long.  While they say it's almost impossible to use 100% local ingredients in all their dishes, they do try. 

Several restaurants are embracing the Slow Food Movement.  For more details on Slow Food and a list of restaurants taking part,  check out:  www.slowfoodpiedmont.org

Happy eating!

Thank you to everyone who supported the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure event this past Saturday, May 5 in Winston-Salem.

It was a huge success!  12,000 people participated and 85-hundred ran the 5k race (including myself, meteorologist Emily Byrd, reporters Eric White and Leah Beno, and our boss Karen Koutsky)...  not to mention the walkers such as Cindy Farmer and Cindy's Team.

Despite the gray weather, 700 more people participated in this year's event compared to last year.  The race raised at least a half a million dollars! 

FOX 8 crews took plenty of pictures.  Here's the link to the photo gallery. 

http://media.myfoxwghp.com/komen/index.htm>

Look closely.  You may see yourself.  Thanks again for participating and helping find a cure for breast cancer.

Greensboro Mayer Keith Holliday announced today that he will not seek re-election.

A tough decision, he admits, but he decided he needs to simplify his life, focus on his full time job as a banker, and spend more time with his family.

Dubbed the "Mayor for Life" since he continued to run for office without real opposition, Holliday served on city council for more than eleven years... seven as mayor.

With this announcement, the city of Greensboro will have another major search in recent times.  Last month, Tim Bellamy was named Chief of Police after serving as Interim Chief for more than a year after David Wray resigned.

Who do you think could be Mayor Holliday's successor?

 

As the date of the free Daughtry Concert approaches, I have new information regarding the event scheduled for Friday, March 23 in downtown Greensboro.

What can I bring?  The city says to treat this event just like any other event held at the Greensboro Coliseum, except it will be held downtown.  Coolers, lawn chairs, video cameras,  food and beverages will not be permitted.  Concessions and beer will be sold.

Where do I park?  Parking is available in downtown Greensboro's several parking lots. Here is a link:   www.downtowngreensboro.net/parking.html

Overflow parking will also be available but shuttles will not be offered.  College students are encouraged to ride PART buses to the event.

What is the plan if it rains?  According to Chief Meteorologist Van Denton, the forecast for March 23rd looks promising.  The outlook is partly cloudy and a bit warm for the daytime.  In the evening, expect temperatures in the 50-60 degree range.  Keep in mind this forecast could change (I am writing this on 3/14).  

What about security?  45 police officers are assigned to the event with an additional 20 on standby.  In addition, the Greensboro Coliseum is providing 50 security guards.

When does the event begin?  Gates open at 7pm. 

Where is the stage?  Here is a link to a map of the block party:

http://www.greensborocoliseum.com/pdf/Daughtry_Venu
e_Map.pdf

Elm Street from Smothers Place to Washington Street will close at 4pm on March 23.  Cars parked in that section of the street will be towed, if they are not moved by the closing time.

Keep it tuned to FOX 8 as we will continue to update you on additional Daughtry concert information.

I hope to see you there!

To all Daughtry Fans:

I have received numerous emails from viewers asking for particulars regarding the upcoming free Daughtry concert, scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM Friday, March 23rd.  The concert will be held in the Hamburger Square area adjacent to Natty Greene's Pub.  The gates will open at 7:00 PM.  Here is an event map of the Block Party:

http://www.greensborocoliseum.com/pdf/Daughtry_Ven
ue_Map.pdf

People are asking me:  Where do I park?   Will there be shuttle buses available?  What is the back-up plan if it rains?  Can I bring along a lawn chair?

Answers:   No shuttles will be provided.  Downtown Greensboro is home to several parking garages.  Here's a link to public parking:

http://www.downtowngreensboro.net/parking.html<
/p>

Regarding the other questions, more details and particulars should be available next week.  As soon as I receive the information from the city, I will pass them along to you.

Thank you for your patience.  -Julie

As we approach the beginning of 2007, many of us reflect on our lives and ponder what can be improved upon in the new year.

Common responses: lose weight, quit smoking, save more money... the list goes on.
My resolution happens to be the same as last year's goal: to take my vitamins every day.

Please tell me about your goal(s) for 2007, or do you think new years resolutions are silly?

If you don't, here are some tips to keep you on track:

Experts say aim low. If you expect too much, you may be doomed to fail. Tell your family and friends about your resolutions. They can help support you while you strive to achieve your goals. Reward yourself. Hey, we all need a treat and need positive reinforcement. And if you fail, don't give up. We are all human and make mistakes.

I hope to read your thoughts. Happy New Year!

After two days of deliberating, the Guilford County School Board approved the plan for students at Eastern Guilford High after a fire destroyed the school.

9th and 10th-grade students will go to the former School for the Deaf on North Summit Ave near Bryan Park. Classes will begin Tuesday, Nov. 14.

11th and 12th-grade students will go to the GTCC campus on Wendover Ave. The school hours will be Noon to 6pm. School will begin Wednesday, Nov. 8.

Students and parents, let us know what you think of the decision. Do you approve or disapprove? How will you be inconvenienced, if at all? What do you think of the student body being separated? If you are a junior or senior, what are your thoughts of the new school hours? Do you look forward to sleeping in or will the later hours encroach on your extra-curricular activities.

As affected students, teachers, staff and parents adjust to this unexpected tragedy, we here at FOX8 would like to know your opinions. Please respond and don't forget to leave your name and hometown.