Asheboro Magazine Issue 116

ISSUE 116 | FREE

ASHEBORO

MAGAZINE

HAMILTON'S STEAKHOUSE

we’re here for you During this time of uncertainty, count on Wake Forest Baptist Health to keep you safe, healthy and informed, with: • Multiple respiratory assessment sites • Expanded online video and telephone health visits • Helpful podcasts with vital information As your routines change, our commitment won’t — we are here for you.

Find the latest updates at WakeHealth.edu/CoronaVirus Have COVID-19 questions? Call 336-70-COVID

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Publisher

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Contributors

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Cover Story Photography Donna Allen Photography

For advertising, contact:

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IN THIS ISSUE Hamilton's Steakhouse

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Ask the Expert

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Community News

14

Senior living

18

Features

22

At the YMCA

30

Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within Asheboro Magazine are not endorsed or recommended by the Publisher.

Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices of these companies. Copyright 2020

asheboromagazine.com | 5

Publisher’s COMMUNITY Letter NEWS

I

was recently sitting on Holden Beach scrolling through Facebook and one of my friends posted that it was four months till Christmas Eve - really?! It's hard to believe that summer is almost over, the kids are back in school and pretty soon it will pumpkin spice everything season.

The cover story this month is one of my favorite Asheboro restaurants. Since they opened a few years ago it's been my go to for a lot of get togethers with friends. The staff is friendly and fun, the atmosphere is always great and the food is exceptional. I have never had a bad meal at Hamilton's Steakhouse (although I've only ordered steak a few times, they have so many good options on the menu!) They've moved to a permanent

location just down Sunset Avenue and wait till you see inside! Call today for reservations and check it out for yourself.

Just a few miles down the road on the other side of Randleman Lake is Founding Fathers Distillery. Jeff Cooper and Marta Price are the brains and the beauty behind the distillery, and they have come up with some mighty tasty spirits. Check out the article and then call them to schedule your own group tasting.

I hope you have a wonderful Fall, because in less than four months - you guessed it - it's Christmas!!

Sherry

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Sally

D

an Mackay has worked in restaurants since he was 17. He and Janet met when they worked together at a Friendly’s in Rochester, NY. Dan was relocated to Jacksonville, NC with an Arby’s franchise, before moving to Madison, NC to work for Fuzzy’s BBQ, which was the first independently owned restaurant he had worked for.

He was hired as a General Manager for Chili’s, and when an opportunity opened in the Asheboro restaurant, they came down, checked out the area and fell in

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love with it. Dan knew that he wanted to retire right here, so they made the move, purchased a home and settled in. When Chili’s began making changes to their management several years later, Dan saw the writing on the wall and began to think about opening his own restaurant, a dream he had held close for many years.

During that time, Janet was listening to the Hamilton soundtrack. She made Dan sit down and watch a documentary on the making of the play. Because of his love of history, she knew he would love it. He then

downloaded the album and listened to it three or four times in a row and the music spoke to him. Alexander Hamilton was self confident, believed in himself and went forward to help shape the government of the United States as a founding father. The musical hit Dan at the core, and he knew that he had to follow his own dream of opening a restaurant, or he would regret never trying.

He came up with the concept after researching other local establishments, based on what he felt Asheboro was missing. They created their company, My Shot, LLC, and scouted out locations. One year to the day after they began the process, they opened on Sunset Avenue in the middle of downtown. The music from Hamilton sustained them throughout that year, keeping them focused and centered through all the challenges of opening a restaurant.

That first year’s Christmas season was good, and they found there was a high demand for parties so they expanded and added the bar upstairs. They originally planned to be a dinner house only, but due to high demand when another local restaurant closed, they added lunch, which has become a huge part of their business.

Dan and Janet are very focused on creating a great experience for every customer who walks through the door. One way Dan knows this can happen is by having happy employees. “Happy people make happy customers.” They treat their employees with respect and pay them what they are worth.

When they approached the owners of the building where the restaurant was located with a formal offer to buy it, they were told that it was a “legacy” property and would never be for sale. At that point, they felt it was time to take a look around and see what was available to purchase and set down permanent roots in the downtown area. When the building next to Monroe Music was being readied for sale, Dan got a call from his realtor. It was not officially on the market yet, but when they walked through it they could see the potential.

They put in a formal offer and closed on the building on December 31st, 2020. Trollinger Construction was already on deck to begin the renovations immediately and started working on the space on January 4th.

After meeting with Dan and Janet and walking through the space in September and October, Mark Trollinger took what they visualized and brought it to life. His team learned what they liked during the process and would make suggestions that fit the style they were going for. They let Mark and his team know that they wanted to use local contractors and businesses for everything where they could, because they appreciate the community that supports them and wanted to do the same. Some of those local companies included: Asheboro Fire and Security, Asheboro Garage Door, Beane Signs, Carolina Custom Booths in High Point, Craven Services, Delta Electric and Plumbing, Don Sweatt Painting and Sherwin Williams, East Randolph Cabinet Shop, Ready Telecom, Sav-A-Lot Flooring, Schneider Stone, Sedia Systems, Smith Glass, Thermaco

asheboromagazine.com | 9

and Triad Heating and Cooling.

Mark was a driving force in getting everything that they wanted in the new restaurant, including the beautiful new outdoor patio area. He attended every city council meeting and walked up and down the street talking to every single business. The City of Asheboro was also amazing to work with in getting permits and right of ways to get things done in a timely manner.

“Everyone did their job, so I could focus on getting the restaurant open. Asheboro welcomed us with open arms, and it is our long-term commitment to Asheboro to build this restaurant.”

Every detail in the restaurant has been designed with the customers’ comfort and enjoyment in mind.

The dining room, where every table is spaced to give its neighbors privacy and create an intimate space, to the cozy nook by the bar where people can talk and enjoy each other’s company without feeling crowded. After 30 years in the restaurant business, Dan got to design a state-of-the-art kitchen from the ground up.

They have a private room that can be closed off from the bar and offers seating for 30 people for sit-down service. It also has audiovisual options including a 75” wi-fi enabled TV that make it a great place for business lunches or dinner meetings. Over the next few weeks, acoustic paneling will be added to the ceilings in the restaurant to decrease the noise level.

Since Hamilton’s reopened in June, they have been busier than ever. With over 50 parking spaces on the street where they are located, there is never a problem finding parking. The Masonic Lodge across the street respectfully asks people not to park in their lot and has added signs to alert patrons.

While Dan strives to keep the menu simple and consistent, he will occasionally add a “special."

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Everything is made in house using personally developed and tested recipes.

The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday to give them one full day off, and to allow a half day on Tuesday placing orders, doing paperwork and payroll and prepping for the week. For large private parties booked in advance, the restaurant is available on Tuesdays.

They currently have 23 people on staff, and while they are not currently advertising for new employees, if the right person walked in the door, they would find a place for them. In order to staff appropriately, reservations are very important. Having the right staff scheduled for each shift ensures that the employees and the customers have a great experience.

“If your employees are happy and making a livable wage, then the customers will have a great experience and leave happy. We create an environment where our employees come first, which leads to our customers having a much better experience.”

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, looking for a great night out to dinner with friends, or even wanting a great take-out option to eat at home, Hamilton’s has something on the menu for everyone.

While they are well-known for their steaks, they have several salmon, chicken and pasta dishes that are popular as well. In fact, I have never ordered something from their menu that I didn’t love.

If you haven’t tried Hamilton’s Steakhouse yet or haven’t visited since they moved to their new location, you should do yourself a favor and call for a reservation soon. You will thank me, I guarantee it!

Hamilton’s Steakhouse is located at 328 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro and open Wednesday through

Sunday for lunch and dinner. You can view their menu on their website at www.HamiltonsSteakhouseAsheboroNC. com and call 336.610.5500 to make reservations. If you are looking for a great place to host a holiday party, definitely give Janet a call to discuss their party room options.

asheboromagazine.com | 11

Ask the COMMUNITY expert Taxes NEWS

IRS IS SENDING MORE UNEMPLOYMENT TAX REFUND CHECKS THIS SUMMER UNCLE SAM HAS ALREADY SENT TAX REFUNDS TO MILLIONS OF AMERICANS WHO ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE $10,200 UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION TAX EXEMPTION. MORE PAYMENTS ARE COMING.

I

f you received unemployment benefits last year and filed your 2020 tax return relatively early, you may find a check in your mailbox soon (or a deposit in your bank account). The IRS started issuing automatic tax refunds in May to Americans who filed their 2020 return and reported unemployment compensation before tax law changes were made by the American Rescue Plan. The tax agency has already sent nearly 9 million refunds, but additional tax refund checks will be sent through the summer.

The American Rescue Plan Act, which was enacted in March, exempts up to $10,200 of unemployment benefits received in 2020 ($20,400 for married couples filing jointly) from federal income tax for households reporting an adjusted gross income (AGI) less than $150,000 on their 2020 tax return. If you received more than $10,200 in unemployment compensation last year, any amount over $10,200 is still taxable.

The IRS has identified over 10 million people who filed their tax returns before the plan became law and is reviewing those returns to determine the correct amount of tax on their unemployment compensation. For those affected, this could result in a refund, a reduced tax bill, or no change at all. (You can use the IRS's Interactive Tax Assistant tool to see if payments you received for being unemployed are taxable.)

The IRS is recalculating impacted tax returns in two phases. It started with tax returns from single taxpayers who had relatively simple returns, such as those filed by

people who didn't claim children as dependents or any refundable tax credits. However, the tax agency has now shifted to phase two, which includes joint returns filed by married couples who are eligible for an exemption up to $20,400 and others with more complex returns.

Remember, though, that the tax exemption only applies to unemployment benefits received in 2020. So, if you receive unemployment compensation in 2021 or beyond, expect to pay federal tax on the amount you get.

Refunds for Unemployment Compensation If you're entitled to a refund, the IRS will directly deposit it into your bank account if you provided the necessary bank account information on your 2020 tax return. If valid bank account information is not available, the IRS will mail a paper check to your address of record. (If your account is no longer valid or is closed, the bank will return your refund to the IRS and a check will be mailed to the address the tax agency has on file for you.) The IRS says it will continue to send refunds until all identified tax returns have been reviewed and adjusted.

The IRS will send you a notice explaining any corrections. Expect the notice within 30 days of when the correction is made. Keep any notices you receive for your records, and make sure you review your return after receiving an IRS notice.

The refunds are also subject to normal offset rules.

So, the amount you get could be reduced (potentially

Ryan Dodson has a Masters in Accounting from North Carolina State University. He worked in public accounting with Deloitte and Arthur Andersen. He and his wife Tiffany own and operate Liberty Tax Service.

405 East Dixie Drive•Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 629-4700 12 | asheboromagazine.com

to zero) if you owe federal tax, state income tax, state unemployment compensation debt, child support, spousal support, or certain federal non-tax debt (i.e., student loans). The IRS will send a separate notice to you if your refund is offset to pay any unpaid debts.

Should I File an Amended Return?

Although the IRS says there's no need to file an amended return, some early filers may still need to, especially if their recalculated AGI makes them eligible for additional federal credits and deductions not already included on their original tax return.

The IRS, for example, can adjust returns for those taxpayers who claimed the earned income tax credit and, because the exemption changed their income level, may now be eligible for an increase in the tax credit amount which may result in a larger refund. That said, taxpayers will need to file an amended return if they didn't originally claim the tax credit, or other credits like the additional child tax credit, but now are eligible because the exclusion changed their income, according to the IRS. These taxpayers may want to review their state tax returns as well.

Withholding from Unemployment Compensation Again, the $10,200 exemption only applies to unemployment compensation received in 2020. So, to avoid a big tax bill when you file your 2021 return next year, consider having taxes withheld from any

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unemployment payments you receive this year.

Contact the NC Employment Security Commission to have federal AND state income taxes withheld from your unemployment benefits.

Victims of Unemployment Fraud Whenever the government starts sending checks, criminals will try to get their hands on some of that money. That's certainly the case with the unemployment compensation tax refunds. The good news is that you won't be punished if a crook uses your name and personal information to steal a tax refund from Uncle Sam. So, for example, if you received an incorrect Form 1099G for unemployment benefits that you didn't receive, the IRS won't adjust your tax return to add the unemployment compensation to your taxable income. You should still report the fraud to the state workforce agency that issued the incorrect form, though.

What About State Taxes?

Just because the federal government is waiving taxes on the first $10,200 of your 2020 unemployment benefits, North Carolina did not follow suit. The entire $10,200 was taxable in North Carolina. This is why you have not received a refund from North Carolina like you did with the IRS. If you still have about your IRS refund and Unemployment Insurance, please give us a call at 336629-4700 or come by and visit us at 405 E. Dixie Drive in Asheboro.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

RCC TRUSTEE LAGUERUELA PASSES AWAY

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andolph Community College Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Directors member Jorge Lagueruela passed away Aug. 11 at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with cancer. Lagueruela joined the College’s Board Trustees in July 2018.

“Jorge was a very bright man,” said RCC President Robert S. Shackleford Jr. during Friday’s opening convocation.

“He started not just another furniture company, but he found a niche — industrial, school, hospital furniture.

Even when other furniture companies were leaving the country, he stayed strong. He helped with contributing to the furniture we have in the new Allied Health Center, and gave generously to the College. Jorge Lagueruela had a big smile even when he was sick. He had a big smile and even a bigger heart and we will miss Jorge. Please remember his family.”

RCC Board Vice Chairman Reynolds Lisk also added words in remembrance during the convocation.

“Jorge truly was one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet,” he said. “I was always struck by how he had this terrible cancer, and he was never without a smile. He would come to the meeting sometimes after undergoing treatments that I know were just horrendous, and he always smiled.

That, to me, is the true measure of a man. We will truly miss him.”

Born in Havana, Cuba, Lagueruela came to the United States in 1960 with his family. He attended High Point University, playing on the men’s soccer team for two years.

Lagueruela graduated as a member of the Order of the Lighted Lamp in 1979. After graduating, he applied his Business Administration degree at American Machine & Foundry for five years.

In 1984, Lagueruela co-founded Trinity Furniture Inc. where he was the president for 37 years.

Lagueruela received many awards and accolades, including the Small Business Administration’s North Carolina Minority Business Person of the Year (1992), the Business Journal Fast 50 (four times), the 2008 U.S.

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Department of Commerce Exporter of the Year, the Business Journal top-ranked Hispanic Business of the Year (several years running), and the 2014 HPU Alumnus of the Year Award. He was an active member of the Archdale-Trinity YMCA, and Hopewell United Methodist Church, serving on the Board of Trustees and as a choir member.

Lagueruela was an avid cyclist, participating in the Cycle North Carolina Mountains to the Coast ride multiple times.

He also was a devoted HPU athletics and Carolina Panthers fan.

Lagueruela is survived by his wife of 41 years, Debra, and three children, Megan, Evan, and Eric.

Care

RCC PAYS OFF STUDENT ACCOUNT BALANCES

knows no boundaries.

R

andolph Community College recently gave approximately 200 students a fresh start by paying off outstanding debt, totaling nearly $113,000. Any student who was enrolled at the College between March 13, 2020 — the start of the COVID-19 pandemic — until the end of the Summer 2021 semester was eligible for the assistance.

In addition to paying off outstanding student account balances, RCC has been able to help students through the pandemic by providing emergency financial assistance for such needs as food, housing, laptops, and internet access.

There also are many opportunities for student support for new and returning students this fall.

“There has never been a better opportunity to attend RCC and not have to worry about how to pay for it,” RCC President Dr. Robert S. Shackleford Jr. said. “We meet students exactly where they are and help them go as far as they can possibly go.”

Interested in coming to RCC? Visit www.randolph.edu or call 336-633-0200.

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RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE RECEIVES SECU SCHOLARSHIPS

R

andolph Community College’s Workforce Development and Continuing Education division recently received the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Bridge to Career Scholarship from the SECU Foundation.

The purpose of the scholarship is to help remove financial barriers for students seeking to obtain state-regulated or industry-recognized credentials that lead to sustainable wage careers within the local community.

RCC will be able to award 30 $500 scholarships to help qualifying students in Basic Law Enforcement Training, Emergency Medical Technician – Initial, and Pharmacy Technician programs for 2021-2022.

For more information about applying for the scholarship, call 336-633-0268.

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RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE ANNOUNCES 2021 SUMMER SEMESTER ACADEMIC STANDING LISTS

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andolph Community College recently announced the President’s List, Dean’s List, and Academic Merit List for the 2021 summer semester.

Curriculum students enrolled in 12 credit hours for the semester excluding college preparatory hours and proficiency hours who receive no incompletes and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 are eligible to be recognized on the following lists: • President’s List - GPA of 4.00, • Dean’s List - GPA of 3.50-3.99.

Curriculum students enrolled in at least six but less than 12 credit hours for the semester excluding college preparatory hours and proficiency hours who receive no incompletes and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 and earn a grade point average of 3.50 – 4.00 are eligible to be recognized on the Academic Merit List.

Congratulations to these students.

President’s List — Summer Semester 2021 Asheboro: Samuel Ashleman.

Ramseur: Kylie Robbins.

Randleman: Georgia Smith.

Seagrove: Annie McPherson.

Trinity: Madeline Work.

Dean’s List — Summer Semester 2021 Asheboro: Carlos Diaz-Townsend.

Benson: Katherine Hibbs.

Denton: Allison Coggins.

Academic Merit List — Summer Semester 2021 Aberdeen: Kathryn Cerruto.

Albemarle: Shameka Wheeler.

Archdale: Katie Allen, Madison Eddins, Haley Hunt, Noah Jones, Daniela Mejia-Coronel, Dashia Reza, Jagur Williams.

Asheboro: Jose Aguilar Moreno, Ernest Alvarez, Carmen Arellano, Uriel Arroyo, Shawn Barr, Sherleen Barrios, Brittany Belcher, Scott Belus, Brenna Bestmann, Mary Bowden, Aaron Bradds, Rachael Brooks, Yolisbet Calixto, Jose Chavez, Patrick Chilton, Cesar Cortes-Aguilera, Brycen Cox, Chasity Craven, Joshua Davis, Nicholas Davis, Jaime Dunn, Nicholas Ferguson, Hailey Fowler, Christy Gainey, Richard Gasey, Luke Gaskins, Samuel Guizar, Fatima Gutierrez, Keeley Hill, Amber Hogan, Rachel Hogan, Alejandro Holt, Makayla Hunsucker, Kristen Jensen, Maranda Justice, Allison Lamm, Tiffany Landeros, Sarah Lavway, Marjorie Lemonds, Katelyn Lucas, Braxton Lucas, Michael Martinez, Elizabeth Martinez-Lopez, Brenda Martinez-Santaolaya, Makayla McDonald, Caiden McDuffie, Joseph McGinty, Logan McMasters, Rhonda Moffitt, Cameron Moffitt, Chloe Monninger, Luis Orantes, Shenandoah Osborne, Allison Parham, Chloe Ray, Brooke Richardson, Alexis Robbins, Robin Ross, Cecilia Salazar Moreno, Jorge Santana, Jamie Sienko, Patricia Sparks, Worth Surratt, Rachel Thompson, Amabilia Tinoco-Leon, Brendan Trogdon, Nala

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Velazquez Morales, Destiny Wall, Amy Watson, Patty Williamson.

Bennett: Misty Murray.

Biscoe: Erica Lemonds, Lizeth Ortiz-Maldonado.

Burlington: Alyssea Hadwin, Alison Underwood.

Carthage: Anna Gibbons.

Charlotte: Isobel Busch.

Climax: Ashleigh Ryan, Taylor Whittington.

Denton: Braydon Byrd, Seth Hoover, Miranda Neu. Ether: Esbeide Tinoco.

Franklinville: Jerri Coley, Jamie Hughes.

Greensboro: Monica Ambrose, Rachel Bello, Rachel Byrd, Susan Lagneau, Ashley Mann, Madeline Rumbley.

High Point: Morgan Gallimore, Kristen Jones.

Lexington: Ashley Lapoint, Amanda Leonard.

Liberty: Heidi Hammond, Jonathan Houston, Crystal Kennedy, Jakson Kirkman, Arielle Woods.

Pleasant Garden: Delma Alvarado, Kinley Ferguson, Abby Moore, Kimberly Wyatt.

Ramseur: Kiersten Brower, Kody Cummings, Jarod Dill, Melanie Garner, Melody Hill, Nayeli Juarez, Alejandro Pacheco.

Randleman: Tara Baker, Kaitlin Barker, Ashle Cardenas-Mercado, Trisha Dennis, Kenneth Diehl, Benjamin Garcia, Tabitha Glass, Alan Grimsley, Brittany Jones, Joshua Jordan, Clara May, Elijah McCutchen, Shannon Mixon, Amber Muckenfuss, Zaiah Parson, Kassidy Parsons, Wendi Peele, Leena Rivero, Ginger Saunders, Elijah Shafer, Elvis Tapia, Barbara Willis.

Robbins: Elizabeth Mejia Aguirre, Brittany Scott.

Rural Hall: Magan Medina.

Seagrove: Lindsey Auman, Zachariah Mabe, Braydan Reeder, Kimberly Taylor, Gracie Welch.

Siler City: Dustin Bullock, Erika Gil, Litzy Gomez, Parker Kidd, David Stecher.

Snow Camp: Dalton Thompson.

Sophia: Lisa Akines, Victor Almanza, Kassidy Driver, Ryan Edwards, Kenneth Gatlin, McKenzie Green, Dawn Harris, Josiah Meraz, Jessica Webb.

Staley: Cheryl Bowman, Fatima Vera Raya.

Star: Isabella Sheffield.

Stokesdale: Emily Neudeck.

Summerfield: Dylan Smith.

Thomasville: Latrisha Fabian, Alisha Khawaja, Montgomery McGee, Samantha Murphy, Rickey Norris.

Trinity: Brittany Adams, Courtney Bivins, Shannon Calderon, Joshua Defreece, Erica Earnhardt, Amber Gobble, Mistie Hoover, Gabriell McArthur, Pamela Todd, Tori Watson, Britney Wray.

Troy: Kourtlyn Miller.

West End: Bradley Taylor.

(All cities are in N.C. unless otherwise indicated.)

asheboromagazine.com | 17

RCATS …NOT JUST FOR SENIORS

W

hen most people think about RCATS, or Regional Coordinated Area Transportation System, they think about the vans that transport seniors and those with disabilities, but RCATS does so much more!

RCATS provides public transportation service to all Randolph and Montgomery County residents on an advance reservation basis. Curb-to-Curb transportation services for older adults, persons with disabilities, human service agencies, and the general public are provided on a county-wide basis. Clean, dependable vans, some of which are equipped with special accessibility features, are used to transport passengers.

Drivers are trained in First Aid, CPR, defensive driving and in other safety-related areas.

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Story & Photos by Jill Jackson, Marketing Director

Nearly 900 riders contribute to an average of 50,000 trips in the county. Montgomery County's RCATS serves over 400 clients with nearly 11,000 trips. This explains why you see RCATS vans all around!

Who is eligible to ride with RCATS? · All Randolph and Montgomery County residents are eligible to ride on RCATS. What type of trips does RCATS provide? · RCATS provides medical, employment, nutrition, and general trips.

When can I call to register and set up my appointments? · You may call to register and schedule your appointments between the hours of 7:00am to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.

· Randolph Co. RCATS 336-629-7433 · Montgomery Co. RCATS 910-572-3430 How far in advance do I have to schedule my trips with RCATS? ·All trips must be scheduled at least two (2) full business days in advance and may be scheduled up to one month in advance. Currently DSS guidelines require that all Medicaid clients schedule their trip reservations at least three (3) business days (72 hours) in advance to permit eligibility confirmation.

What is the difference between a cancellation and a no show? · When a passenger elects not to take a scheduled trip and fails to cancel the trip at least 24 hours before the schedule pick-up time, a no-show is recorded. A trip will be considered a no-show if the driver waits five (5) minutes and the passenger does not appear.

About the Randolph Senior Adults Association: The Randolph County Senior Adults Association (RSAA), a nonprofit organization, is the community’s lead organization for adults age 50 and over. RCSAA is a United Way agency. For more information, visit: www. senioradults.org.

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BREAKFAST CASSEROLE FOR ONE This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is so easy to prep in the evening and perfect if you’re only cooking for one or two. It chills overnight in the refrigerator, then bakes quickly in the oven the next morning. Made with sausage, cheese, one egg, milk and bread. Wake up to a savory breakfast bread pudding that’s a real treat any time of the year!

Ingredients Pork or turkey sausage: Use 6-ounces of ground pork sausage.

Egg: 1 large egg is all you need.

Milk: Use ¾ cup of milk, any percentage.

Salt and black pepper: Use 1/8 teaspoon of both for flavor.

Bread: Use 2 cups of cubed French, Italian, or sourdough bread.

Cheese: Use ½ cup of shredded Cheddar Jack cheese.

Directions Cook the sausage until no longer pink. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

In a medium-sized bowl, beat the egg. Whisk in the milk, salt, and pepper.

Place the bread in a small buttered baking dish.

Sprinkle the bread with the cooked sausage and cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, bake the casserole, covered in a 350 F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set.

Remove from the oven and enjoy while still warm.

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FEATURE

FOUNDING FATHERS DISTILLERY THE ART IS IN THE OAK

Jeff Cooper is a renaissance man. Although his family has deep roots in North Carolina, leading all the way back to the Revolutionary war, he grew up in Louisiana.

In 1978, he and a colleague were sitting around and talking about how they should distill their own whisky. He was working in the Oil & Gas industry at the time as a consultant, and he moved a year later and lost touch with him. But the idea stayed with him for the next thirty years.

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He got out of the oil & gas industry to spend more time with his children and studied for his real estate license. During the course, the section on appraisals snagged his interest and he went on to become an appraiser, which he has practiced for the past 38 years.

Marta Price taught piano, taught school, and worked as a psychotherapist in hospitals, clinics, and in private practice. She is retired but continues to develop skills as a classically trained pianist. She inherited a piece of property along the Deep River, now Randleman Lake when her mother passed away. The Old Parsons farm is the largest remaining intact parcel given to George Parsons by Quakers via land grant in 1747.

The property has seen native Americans, soldiers, and farmers walk its fields. She contacted Jeff to perform an appraisal of the property for her. They remained friends and later fell in love.

Marta encouraged him to follow his passion for creating whisky and has been an integral part of realizing his dream.

“I realized his brilliance and recognized his need to actualize his creative potential in the business of making

whisky. Love is always wanting more for one's beloved than you want for yourself.”

They spent the next few years reading every book they could find on the process of distilling whiskey. They built a road on the property and hired a contractor to build the “barn” to house the distillery and Founding Fathers Distillery was born. They had a deep artesian well dug on the property down to a confined aquifer with ‘ancient’ water estimated to be between 10,000 and 13,000 years old! Now that is pure!

Through much trial and lots of error, Jeff has refined his whisky making process. He employed his knowledge of chemistry, electrical and mechanical engineering, plumbing and carpentry to set up his distillery, which is home to two stills – Ben (Franklin) and George (Washington). He charts and graphs each step in the process to create a masterpiece that is both consistent and delicious.

Three words that describe Jeff are precise, meticulous and determined. By using the best equipment and ingredients, and keeping the batches small, the process allows better control of each phase

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of the whisky’s development. A lot of customers have said it is the best whisky they have tasted, more like a scotch that is not “peated.”

The yeast is sourced from a global company in Denmark. They store the “mother” in a locked vault that is guarded 24/7. The yeast is designed specifically for the grains that Jeff uses to create his whisky and arrives in the form of bricks. The barley is grown in the US and comes in sealed bags. Because of the small batch process, Jeff is able to maintain the purity of the grain, which remains consistent throughout the fermentation process.

The American white oak barrels are made to Jeff’s exacting standards for their whisky. He specifies the length of time and at what temperature the staves are “toasted,” and also the depth of the “char.” Barrel making is a time-honored craft that requires talent, skill and patience. White oak trees take at least 90 years to grow before they can be harvested. The oak barrels can infuse the liquor with notes of vanilla, cherry, butterscotch and chocolate, depending on the level of heat and length of time it is applied.

Making whisky makes Jeff happy. He does not want to compete with large whisky making production companies, he makes what he feels is a superior Cooper’s Cut Whisky, and hopes you think so too.

In addition to whisky, Jeff has made a light and a dark Deep River Rum. Once the whisky barrel has been seasoned through the whisky making process, it can be used to house other liquors. Jeff is currently working on a recipe for a brandy and has other potential projects in the works down the road.

In 2020 they turned a section of the distillery into a tasting room and began to offer tours and small tastings for groups. They do not have “open” hours, so it’s best to call and arrange a visit to the distillery to make sure they are available. You can also order their whisky through your local ABC store here in North Carolina.

Jeff is passionate about more than great whisky.

He found his love of photography helping his brother develop photos in a dark room during his high school years at a Christian Brothers college preparatory school. He has published several photography books, as well as poems and children’s books, which are housed in the North Carolina Collection in Chapel Hill and the Library of Congress. He truly is a renaissance man.

Founding Fathers Distillery is located just over the Randolph Guilford line in High Point. Visit their website at www.foundingfathersdistillery.com or on Facebook www.facebook.com/foundingfathersdistillery, or on Instagram or LinkedIn. 24 | asheboromagazine.com

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FEATURE

FORMER ASHEBORO UBER DRIVER LAUGHS, SHARES STORIES, WELCOMES PEOPLE TO THE AREA

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Story and Photos by Greta Lint

lenn White, of Asheboro loves to make new friends, laugh and chat. He was working as a machinist at Caterpillar when he had a stroke.

Life changed and he became an Uber driver. He could set his own hours, loved the work and enjoyed telling his passengers about the Piedmont Triad and North Carolina. He was a great ambassador for our area. But now, he only drives locally and when he feels like it.

“I still get a lot of calls,” he said. Word hasn’t gotten out that he’s really not in the market to drive people around. Instead, he takes friends and neighbors to their doctors’ visits or for errands.

But in his heyday, he was probably the only Uber driver in the Asheboro area. Many of the calls he received came from college students wanting transportation. Yes, it was usually the Greensboro party crowd.

He laughs when he recalls a story about a group of college kids in Greensboro. They were in his van and en route to a party. But when they arrived at their destination, the house an neighborhood looked too nice for a house party. The girls were not comfortable being there and so they talked with White about what they could do. They kicked around all kinds of ideas –

and then landed at one of the McDonald’s in Greensboro. They sat and laughed.

They probably had a better time than if they had pursued their evening party!

He has taken Glenn White, of Asheboro, doesn’t spend as much time on his cell phone as he used customers to to. At one time, he was taking Uber calls different places all the time to transport people places. He throughout the really enjoyed the college crowd because state. He said they reminded him of how he used to it can be faster provide rides for school peers earlier in his life. (Greta Lint) to take Uber the 2.5 hours to Wilmington than take an Uber to the airport, go through security, fly to the beach, and wait for an Uber on the other end. Plus, many people prefer the comfort of being driven than being cramped in a commuter plane for a flight. He drove the Greensboro-beach run quite often.

Sometimes it was faster for people to hire an Uber driver to take them to Weilington than it was to fly from Piedmont Triad International Airport. (contributed) 26 | asheboromagazine.com

He also took people to Charlotte, Asheville, Fayetteville, Durham and other cities. He even drove one customer to Washington, D.C. The Jeopardy winner Ken Jennings rode with White for his Aug. 28 performance at the Sunset Theater in downtown Asheboro. White glowed about it for weeks before the event. Yes, he was excited. It’s not every day that you are at the service of such a famous person.

If you could use an additional $1,000/month, Uber is hiring. White says to contact him via Messenger or Facebook and he will walk you through the process.

“After you have downloaded the Uber or Lyft apps to your phone, then you create an account. There are some drivers in the Asheboro area, but Guilford and Forsyth counties are busy. From what I’m understanding, Uber is either giving bonuses per ride or bonuses after a certain number of rides. Lyft is offering the same system. The bonus is on top of what you get from the trip,” White explained.

If you want to be a rider, you need a cell phone and a credit or debit card. Once you have downloaded the Uber or Lyft apps, you receive a series of prompts asking where you are, where you want to go and more. Them the magic Uber and Lyft scheduler in the sky receives that information and channels it out to nearby drivers. Rides are paid up front. No cash is involved. Tipping can be

done through the app, unless you prefer to tip with cash.

If you want to be a rider, educate yourself first on safety. The website, www.safety.com provides a good list of ways to protect yourself, such as verify the car and driver.

Smiling, White said, “I liked being a driver. In particular, I enjoyed the college crowd and sharing information about our area with them.” You can say Glenn has been a welcoming champion for North Carolina.

Glenn White enjoyed showing people around. This rainbow may have put smiles on passengers’ faces. (Greta Lint)

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COMMUNITY NEWS

2021 UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN GETS UNDERWAY

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his year’s campaign for the United way has exciting news! Instead of one chairperson – there are two! Reynolds Lisk and Quintin Louris have agreed to co-chair the campaign this year. Both are excited to help the United Way reach this year’s campaign goal and look forward to talking to many businesses over the coming weeks.

The United Way has shared a video of the co-chairs talking with Larry Reid, WKXR Radio personality about why they are excited to cochair this event this year.

Reynolds: First of all, Elizabeth Mitchell, the Director of the United Way in Randolph County is difficult to say no to. But seriously, I am a firm believer in what the United Way does for the community. When you give to the United Way, you are helping multiple agencies across the county with your

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donation.

Quintin: Elizabeth hasn’t steered me wrong in the four years I’ve worked with her, first through the Village of Barnabas, which is a United Way agency, and then when she told me about the job at the Small Business Center at Randolph County College. I am honored to co-chair with Reynolds and look forward to reaching out to the manufacturing community and educate them on the importance of the United Way’s mission.

When Larry asked them, what success would look like this year, they had a lot to say.

Reynolds: We set a goal each year, and during COVID, of course, that goal was not realized. The need is much bigger this year with the economy still affected by COVID, and although we would be very happy to meet our goal, any

money we raise will be used to help people in our county, and I count that a win.

Quintin: I believe in giving back, and the United Way helps people. While things that we have done in the past may have worked then, coming through a pandemic, you have to reinvent ways to reach people. Getting the word out about United Way and the need that I see in our community, that will be success for me.

The annual Post Consumer Brands Cereal Sale Campaign Kick-off is being planned, but due to the current situation with COVID cases on the rise in the county again, the date has been postponed from September to an as yet to be determined date later in the Fall but will hopefully happen in October.

The sale, held in Bicentennial Park in Asheboro for the past several years, sells 10,000 bags of cereal for $1 each and all money is donated to the United Way campaign.

It’s a great way to show your support for the community through the United Way, and to stock your shelves with delicious cereal at the same time!

Keep an eye on the United Way’s Facebook page for updates to the Cereal Sale (www.facebook.com/ UnitedWay-of-Randolph-County-108728529153440) and how you and your company can support this great organization through employee giving at www.uwrandolph.org.

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GROUP EXERCISE STUDIO Our state-of-the-art Group Exercise Studio is a large multi-functional room that is great for group fitness as well as private workouts. Group exercise is a great way to get moving, make friends, and stay motivated. We have a class for every level!

MIND AND BODY STUDIO & YOGA WALL + BARRE Our unique studio, featuring the Yoga Wall, offers the right atmosphere and variety of classes that will connect mind, body and spirit. The Yoga Wall is a system of belts that

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by Nick McNeill, slide and lock into wall plates set at different heights (ankle, waist and above-head height). This aids in lengthening your spine, opening up your joints, strengthening hardto-build muscles, and improving inversions. The instructor will guide you through a workout that teaches correct technique and form to maximize results for participants of all levels whether a beginner or a long time practitioner.

INDOOR CYCLE STUDIO Our Indoor Cycle Studio is equipped with 20 Keiser bikes with certified instructors that will help you burn calories while riding to motivating music! Indoor biking has proven that human against machine workouts are better in groups. Cycle classes are great fun for all levels of fitness because you control the intensity of your workout.

BEASTMODE FUNCTIONAL TRAINING CENTER BeastMode Functional Training Center is a core strength and functional conditioning program that is designed to be broad, general and inclusive. Elements of track

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