Asheboro Magazine Issue 119

ISSUE 119 | FREE

ASHEBORO

MAGAZINE

MERIDIAN INTERNAL MEDICINE

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

Sherry B. Johnson sherry@asheboromagazine.com

Contributors

Ryan Dodson, Kim Allgood Nick McNeill, Greta Lint, Micki Bare Megan Crotty, Jill Jackson, Kristi Marion Studio or Outdoor Family Portraits Donna Allen Photography Engagement/Wedding Sessions specializes in School Sports, Sports/Team Photography and Banner designs HS Senior Portraits Senior Portraits, Babies/Children/ Professional Headshots/Studio or Casual setting Families, Professional Studio Portraits & Event Photography DAP will customize your session to suit your needs!

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Sherry Johnson sherry@asheboromagazine.com

IN THIS ISSUE Meridian Internal Medicine

8

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Ask the Expert

12

Community News

14

Herb 'n Garden

18

Senior living

20

Zoo Tales

26

At the YMCA

28

Feature

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 2021.

asheboromagazine.com | 5

Publisher’s COMMUNITY Letter NEWS

G

oodbye 2021! For most of us this past year has been one of transition and learning to live with a new normal - whether it's dealing with the loss of a loved one, a change in career, a divorce. But on the flip side of that, there have been births, marriages, new jobs and travel. All of this is called LIFE. We live it, things happen to us that at the time may seem devastating, but they are all part of a bigger plan for our journey in this world.

I have a lot to be thankful for this year. My family and friends and their unwavering support of me, my advertisers who allow me the opportunity to bring this magazine to you each and every month and I am most thankful for you, my loyal readers. Without you, there would not be a magazine.

I hope you enjoy this issue. I have worked hard to bring you a few new features, and will be creating partnerships with many locals to bring you even better content and features in 2022. It is my privilege and honor to bring you a magazine every month that reflects the heart of Asheboro and Randolph County and the wonderful people that live and work here.

Exciting things are happening in downtown Asheboro and all over the entire city, and I can't wait to see what is in store for us in the new year.

Please have a wonderful Christmas, a safe, healthy and happy New Year to you and your families, and please let me know if there is anything you would like to see in the magazine going forward. I would love to hear your suggestions on how I can improve and grow this magazine to reflect the amazing community that we live, work and play in.

Happy New Year and see you next year!

Sherry

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Sally

MERIDIAN INTERNAL MEDICINE

D

r. Caroline Prochnau has built her medical practice, Meridian Internal Medicine, around providing quality healthcare to her patients in a positive and caring environment. An approach that promotes a partnership with the patient to the treatment and prevention of illnesses.

Dr. Prochnau is a native of North Carolina and grew up in Winston Salem. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from UNC-Charlotte in 1994 and received her Doctor of Medicine degree from UNC School of Medicine in 1998.

She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Tennessee Knoxville Medical Center in 2001. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and her professional memberships include the North Carolina Medical Society and the American College of Physicians.

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When she returned to North Carolina, she chose to settle down in Asheboro to be closer to her family. She joined another practice, where she worked for several years before opening her own office on North Cox Street.

She chose the name Meridian for two reasons: opening her own office was the highest point in her career at that time, and in ancient China, the Meridians were discovered to be the pathways of the positive and negative energy in the body.

Dr. Prochnau took the time to plan every detail of her office décor to promote a soothing, calm atmosphere for everyone who walks in the front door. She took it one step further and declared the office a “perfume & fragrance free” zone for the well being of her patients and staff.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone who works or visits the office is required to wear a mask for the safety of others and all social distancing COVID-19 protocols are followed to give patients the peace of mind of in person visits. Each stafff member has a daily temperature check and rapid testing if they are not feeling well and exhibiting any symptoms. If a patient is having respiratory symptoms, they are seen outside the office.

Dr. Prochnau’s practice is helping men and women over the age of 18 maintain their general wellness through regular check-ups for

preventative self-care. In addition, Meridian Internal Medicine offers patients a full range of care for high blood pressure maintenance, thyroid issues, diabetes management and other general internal

asheboromagazine.com | 9

Community College in 2003, and received her Bachelor of Science nursing degree from WinstonSalem State University in 2014. She completed her Master of Science nursing degree from WinstonSalem State University in 2016. She is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C). In addition, Sharon completed a Doctorate of Nurse Practice program through UNC-G, with a focus on antibiotic stewardship.

Sharon is from Asheboro and enjoys working in her hometown and seeing lots of familiar faces.

She fits in well with the practice as she and Dr. Prochnau have very similar philosophies when it comes to their patients, taking a team approach to provide quality compassionate healthcare.

Dr. Prochnau feels very fortunate that her staff has been with her a long time and work so well together. She promotes this through team building activities throughout the year.

Dr. Prochnau is married and has two children.

Meghan is high school and Joshua is in 8th grade. Her husband Ken is a mechanical engineer.

Sharon is married with two grown children. Her daughter lives in Knoxville, TN and her son lives in medicine issues. They have an in-house lab through LabCorp so people can have their lab work done right at the office during their scheduled visit instead of making an additional appointment at a collection site.

Patient records are completely electronic, and they offer a secure portal so their patients have access to their personal files at any time, including doctor visits, lab results, x-rays and more.

Cathy Campbell has been with Dr. Prochnau as her office manager since the beginning. Sandra Barrett, patient care coordinator and Yolanda Scotton, certified medical assistant have also been with her since she opened the practice. Her practice has grown to include additional certified medical assistants Linda Morgan and Savannah Smith. Amy Watson was hired as an assistant office manager to help Cathy with the growing needs of the practice.

Brittini McMasters is a phlebotomist with LabCorp and available onsite.

Sharon Heyn, FNP-C joined the staff at Meridian in February 2018. Sharon graduated with an Associate’s degree in nursing from Randolph 10 | asheboromagazine.com

Washington, DC. Starting in 2022 Meridian are partnering with UpStream Healthcare and will have a clinical pharmacist practitioner on-site part-time working with patients to improve health outcomes.

Meridian Internal Medicine is a member of the Triad Healthcare Network, an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) where health care providers who share common goals of improving patient care can work together more effectively. Providers work together to integrate care, so their patients are ensured they get the right care, at the right place, at the right time.

If you are looking for a caring healthcare provider, call the office today to make an appointment, 336.633.3073. Meridian Internal Medicine is located at 306 N Cox Street, in Asheboro and you can view their website at www. merdianinternalmed.com. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 7 am to 4 pm, and Friday 7 am to 1 pm. asheboromagazine.com | 11

Ask the COMMUNITY expert Taxes NEWS

WHAT TAXPAYERS CAN DO NOW TO GET READY TO FILE TAXES IN 2022

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here are steps people, including those who received stimulus payments or advance child tax credit payments, can take now to make sure their tax filing experience goes smoothly in 2022.

currency transactions Income documents can help determine if you are eligible for deductions or credits. This year, we will need to reconcile advance payments of the child tax credit and premium tax credit in order to accurately file the 2021 return. Those who did not Gather and organize tax records receive their full third Economic Impact Payments, Organized tax records make preparing a IRS speak for 3rd Stimulus, will need to know how complete and accurate tax return easier. They help much of the third payment amount they did receive avoid errors that lead to processing delays that in order to claim the stimulus on their tax return. slow refunds. Having all needed documents on If you received one of the documents below from hand before getting your return prepared will help the IRS, please bring it in! One document is new your tax preparer file it completely and accurately. this year to everyone: Letter 6419 – Total Advance This includes: Child Tax Credit Payments.

• Forms W-2 from employers • Letter 6419, 2021 Total Advance Child Tax • Forms 1099 from banks, issuing agencies Credit Payments, to reconcile advance child tax and other payers including unemployment credit payments compensation, dividends, distributions from a • Letter 6475, Your 2021 Economic Impact pension, annuity or retirement plan Payment, to determine eligibility to claim the • Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 or other income recovery rebate credit statement for workers in the gig economy • Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace • Form 1099-INT for interest received Statement, to reconcile advance premium tax • Other income documents and records of virtual credits for Marketplace coverage 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

Care

If you receive any of these payments and it is not accurately reflected on your tax return, the IRS will delay processing your refund. So to make sure you receive these letters……

knows no boundaries.

Confirm mailing and email addresses and report name changes To make sure forms make it to the them on time, confirm now that each employer, bank and other payer has your current mailing address or email address. You can report address changes to the IRS by completing Form 8822, Change of Address and sending it to the IRS. It is critical to get this in as soon as possible. Taxpayers should also notify the postal service to forward their mail by going online at USPS.com or their local post office.

We are hospice.

View account information online Individuals who have not set up an Online Account yet should do so soon. People who have already set up an Online Account should make sure they can still log in successfully. Taxpayers can use Online Account to securely access the latest available information about their federal tax account. The online account will also give you access to any of the three letters above.

Review proper tax withholding and make adjustments if needed You may want to consider adjusting your withholding if you owed taxes or received a large refund in 2021. Changing withholding can help avoid a tax bill or let you keep more money each payday. Life changes – getting married or divorced, welcoming a child or taking on a second job – may also be reasons to change withholding. You should complete a new Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Certificate, when personal or financial situations change.

Finally, consider consider estimated tax payments. Individuals who receive a substantial amount of non-wage income like self-employment income, investment income, taxable Social Security benefits and in some instances, pension and annuity income should make quarterly estimated tax payments. The last payment for 2021 is due on Jan. 18, 2022.

And don’t forget to keep copies of tax returns and all supporting documents for at least three years. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 336-629-4700 or come visit us at Liberty Tax Service, 405 E. Dixie Drive, Suite J, Asheboro.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

NC ZOO SOCIETY PARTNERS WITH T-MOBILE TO PROVIDE WORKSHOP ON PLAYFUL LEARNING

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he NC Zoo Society partnered with T-Mobile to provide an educator workshop on how to incorporate more outdoor play in nature into classroom curricula. T-Mobile is supporting the North Carolina Zoo Playful Pedagogy program with a $20,000 sponsorship. The goal of the project is to support adults working with children in acquiring fresh perspectives on their approach to engaging with children outdoors.

The “Play in Practice Workshop” for formal and informal educators from across the state took place December 4, 2021, at the North Carolina Zoo. The workshop was led by Linda Kinney, the Zoo’s Nature Play and School Programs Manager.

“This workshop focuses on ways educators can nurture creativity and imagination,” said Kinney. “ Even though we don’t often think of play and school going together, supporting children’s playful dispositions can bring about wonderful learning opportunities. Being outdoors is so important to our children’s health and wellbeing.”

The North Carolina Zoo education team will also feature Playful Pedagogy through videos and activities on the “Adventures in EdZOOcation” Facebook group (https:// www.facebook.com/groups/EdZOOcation/) during the

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week of December 27, 2021 for all to see, thanks to T-Mobile’s support.

About the North Carolina Zoological Society The North Carolina Zoological Society (nczoo.com) is a private, 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization that relies on its members, donors, and other supporters to find and provide the North Carolina Zoo the financial support it needs to carry out its animal conservation efforts. Together the North Carolina Zoo and North Carolina Zoological Society support programs that respect and protect wildlife and nature and inspire people to strengthen their bonds with the natural world.

About the North Carolina Zoo At the North Carolina Zoo, we celebrate nature. As the world’s largest natural habitat Zoo, we inspire a lifelong curiosity about animals for the hundreds of thousands of people who visit our Zoo each year. Our dedicated team of experts provides exceptional, compassionate care for the more than 1,800 animals and 52,000 plants that call our Park home. We also lead efforts locally and globally to protect wildlife and wild places because we believe nature’s diversity is critical for our collective future. The North Carolina Zoo invites all of our guests to witness the majesty of the wild in the heart of North Carolina and welcomes everyone to join in our mission to protect nature’s diversity. Visit NCZoo.org to begin your life-changing journey.

RCC RANKED 16TH ON NICHE LIST, FIRST IN NC

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andolph Community College is listed as number 16 nationally on Niche’s Best Community Colleges list for 2022 — the top college in North Carolina.

“Two of our core values as a College are quality education and student success,” RCC President Dr. Robert S. Shackleford Jr. said. “This impressive national designation, along with the ranking as the top community college in North Carolina, confirms that we take those core values very seriously. Every day, our faculty and staff come to work for the sole purpose of creating opportunities and changing lives. I couldn’t be prouder of them and our amazing students!”

According to Niche, “The Best Community Colleges ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic, financial, and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with millions of reviews from

students and alumni.”

The two biggest factors are the academics grade (40 percent), which incorporates factors such as acceptance rate and quality of professors as well as student and alumni surveys regarding academics at the school, and the value grade (27.5 percent), which uses statistics such as average loan amount, alumni earnings, and student surveys regarding value. Other factors are professors, campus, diversity, student life, student surveys on overall experience, and local area.

To view the complete list, visit https://www.niche.com/ colleges/search/best-community-colleges/.

LET RCC HELP YOU START A NEW CAREER, LEARN NEW COMPUTER SKILLS

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his spring, Randolph Community College is offering opportunities to not only embark on a new career as a Notary Public, but also learn the computer skills needed to advance on the job.

The purpose of a notary is to prevent fraud and forgery. In this course, you will learn what you may and may not do as a notary public. Students must be 18 years of age or legally emancipated; speak, read, and write English; possess a high school diploma or equivalent; and live or work in the state. A textbook is required and will be available for purchase at the first class.

The “Notary Public Education” courses on the Asheboro Campus are Friday or Saturday from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., while classes at the Archdale Center are Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-10 p.m. This class is required for anyone interested in obtaining a North Carolina commission as a notary public. The first section (#77683) is Jan. 7 in room 103/107 of the Continuing Education and Industrial Center on the Asheboro Campus. Other sections are Jan. 8 (#77693), Feb. 4 (#77686), Feb. 5 (#77695), March 5 (#77696), March 11 (#77687), April 2 (#77697), April 8 (#77691), May 6 (#77692), and May 7 (#77698). Classes at the Archdale Center are Jan. 24 and 26 (#78391), March 21 and 23 (#78392), and May 2 and 4 (#78393).

The registration fee for these classes is $70, plus $28.25 for the textbook. For more information or to register, call 336-633-0268 for the Asheboro class or 336-328-1750 for the Archdale course.

RCC also offers an “eNotary Public Education” course Friday, March 18, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in room 103/107 of the CEIC

for $76 The course (#77861) will instruct existing Notaries in newly legislated procedures required to exercise notarial acts as set forth by the North Carolina Secretary of State.

The course will cover the N.C. E-Notary Act, eligibility and registration, E-Notary processes, technology solutions and providers (attendees will get hands-on practice), ethics regarding E-Notarizations, consequences of misconduct, security standards, best practices, and departmental recommendations.

Students must hold a valid commission as an N.C. Notary Public, and must bring their notary number, photo ID (driver’s license), and email address to take the final exam.

Call 336-633-0268 to register.

Need to learn how to use a computer in the workplace or to advance your computer know-how? RCC offers three levels of courses — in English and Spanish.

“Workplace Computer Skills: Level I” and “Workplace Computer Skills: Level I (Spanish)” are designed to fully introduce the computer to learners for the first time.

Students will focus on all functions of the computer, including using the current Windows operating system, Microsoft Office software, internet searches, and basic keyboarding. Other topics covered include creating resumés, cover letters, setting up and using email accounts, and basic awareness of technology scams.

The English class (#77831) is Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 21, from 6-8:30 p.m. The first Spanish section (#77830) is Saturdays, Jan. 8-March 5, from 1-4 p.m., and the second section (#77832) is Tuesdays and Thursdays, asheboromagazine.com | 15

Jan. 11-Feb. 17, from 6-8:30 p.m.

“Computer Applications for the Workplace: Level II” and “Computer Applications for the Workplace: Level II (Spanish)” are designed to support students who may have a familiarity with the computer, but want to advance their computer literacy and technology awareness. Students will explore using Microsoft Office, Windows operating system, and social media for more detailed functions and projects.

Using the internet for daily life and becoming familiar with smartphones and tablets will also be explored.

The English course (#77835) is Mondays and Wednesdays, Feb. 23-March 30, from 6-8:30 p.m. There are two Spanish sections — the first (#77833) is Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 22-March 31, from 6-8:30 p.m., while the second (#77836) is Saturdays, March 12-May 14, from 1-4 p.m.

“Technology Awareness for the Workplace: Level III” and “Technology Awareness for the Workplace: Level III (Spanish)” are designed to enhance the computer skills of students, using advanced information to utilize the computer for professional and personal projects. Learners will become proficient in all computer functions, including Microsoft Office, internet functions, job searches, and minor computer troubleshooting. The use of smartphones and tablets will also be explored.

The English course (#77838) is Mondays and Wednesdays, April 4-May 11, from 6-8:30 p.m., while the Spanish class (#77837) is Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 5-May 12, from 6-8:30 p.m.

All of these computer courses take place in room 108 of the CEIC on the Asheboro Campus. The cost is $125 or

waived. Call 336-328-1750 to register for any of the above computer classes.

Baffled by Microsoft Excel? No need to worry — RCC’s online “MS Excel, Basic” course includes introductory and intermediate levels. Students will learn to create/edit simple worksheets, work with menus and toolbars, use basic formulas, format entries, merge cells, hide/unhide rows/columns; and learn about date and time functions, text alignment, inserting and deleting columns/rows, freezing/unfreezing cells, splitting the window and page breaks.

The class (#77865) meets Mondays from 6-9 p.m., Feb. 14-March 21, on Zoom. The cost is $70 plus $10 for a book.

For more information or to register, call 336-633-0268.

The College also has a course to help you balance your business’ books. “QuickBooks, Introduction” (#77825), teaches how to do accounting for your businesses using this popular accounting software. Topics will include using special journals and subsidiary ledgers and generating professional financial statements.

The course meets from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 1-March 10, in room 106 of the CEIC. The cost is $70. For more information or to register, call 336633-0268.

To check out more of RCC’s Workforce Development and Continuing Education courses or to register for any of the above classes, visit https://www.randolph.edu/academics/ workforce-development/index.aspx.

SPARK YOUR CREATIVE SIDE IN THESE RCC CLASSES

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aking a class doesn’t have to mean a long, boring new techniques and to enhance skill building. A special lecture. Randolph Community College has pottery focus will be placed on creative expression and design and painting classes this spring to spark your creative methods, as well as Raku and gas-fired pottery. side.

The class (#77869) is Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 10“Advanced Pottery” is designed for those who have May 11, from 5:30-9 p.m. in the Pottery Center. The cost is completed “Pottery I” or already have a basic understanding $315.55, which includes supplies and insurance. and experience in pottery. The course provides the For information or to register for either of these pottery students with the knowledge and skills required to start courses, call 336-633-0268. their own pottery businesses or to work for a pottery RCC’s “Oil, Acrylic, and Watercolor” course teaches brush business. Students will work on designing bowls, vases, techniques, approaches to subjects, composition, layout, and lidded jars, becoming more familiar with using the kiln and other aspects of painting. Students must provide their and finishing techniques. Students will also develop and own supplies. Some classes may emphasize one medium explore their own personal design aesthetic. over another.

The course (#77868) is Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. There are two sections of the course — the morning 10-May 11, from 1-4:30 p.m. in the Pottery Center on the class (#77903) is from 9-11:30 a.m., while the afternoon Asheboro Campus. The cost is $315.55, which includes course (#77904) takes place from 12:30-3 p.m. Both supplies and insurance. sections are on Tuesdays, Feb. 15-April 19, in room 122 of “Pottery Studio Lab” is for anyone who has completed the Administration/Education Building on the Asheboro “Pottery I” and/or “Advanced Pottery,” or is currently taking Campus. a pottery class. It will provide students with hands-on For more information or to register for either of these instruction that will support and continue to build their skills as potters. Demonstrations will be given to discuss painting courses, call 336-328-1750.

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Herb 'n Garden

NO SOIL REQUIRED

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Story & Photos by Sue Baltes

he winter months might be a good time to start a new hobby of indoor water-gardening. Recently I got an early morning message from a dear plant friend, Geri, who messaged me a photo of an amazing Christmas Cactus she found growing on a windowsill that she had forgotten until she saw the beautiful flower. A few months earlier a piece had broken off her beloved cactus and she hated to toss it and thought she’d just stick it in water, and then actually forgot about it. Well it formed roots, flower buds and then a beautiful bloom. Geri asked if I’d ever seen a cactus root in water before.

Well of course I had because in the winter months I love to fill my sunny windows with vases and colored bottles filled with water and plant stems and watch them begin to root. Many of them I don’t get to flower, but it is still a great way to start new plants for spring or to just enjoy growing them in water.

Just this week I spent an afternoon with another dear plant friend, Lucas Hobbs at Studio 120, while getting a muchneeded pedicure and I noticed that he has a lighted cabinet in his salon that had previously held his nail polishes. Well he has turned it into a really cool plant cabinet full of lots of unique bottles that he was using to root plants, so we discussed the thrill of watching them grow. He told me which ones were his favorites and the ones he had the most success with.

Some examples were tradescatia, snake plants, rosemary and calantheas.

Growing plants in just water, whether they be house plants or herbs, is a great way to start gardening for beginners. It also serves those with limited space and/or the folks who don’t want to be burdened with high maintenance plants. Water propagation works very well for many types of plants.

Here’s what you need to do: simply clip off a piece of a house plant and place the stem in a bottle filled with water. Placing the plant in a window provides the light they need to grow.

But like Lucas, who didn’t have a window in his salon he transformed the lighted cabinet for his plants to provide the needed light. Depending on the type of plant it will quickly sprout roots and will continue to grow more lush over time.

Almost any container or bottle will work, though glass or ceramic containers seem to work best as metal ones will corrode. Hydroponics is yet another name for growing plants in water, and commercial growers often have fertilizers and other

18 | asheboromagazine.com

chemicals added to the water. At home you can also do that by mixing up a weak solution of watersoluble fertilizer. Hanging or creeping plants often work very well in bottles. When you cut you clipping, be sure to clean off all the soil and dead or decaying stems and you should be ready to enjoy your new indoor bottle garden For years I’ve loved to find unusual bottles and fill them with water and plants. The advice I always share is at least once or twice a week to pour out the water and add fresh. I’ve also found that plants rooting in water make such thoughtful gifts. Some of my favorite plants to use are spider plants, ivy’s, orchids, pothos and herbs like rosemary and lavender, and its fun to keep a jar of mint rooting in the kitchen to add to your tea.

So, if you need a new hobby think about growing some plants in water and think “No Soil Required.”

Sue Baltes is the owner of Herb 'n Garden shop on the corner of Academy Street and Bicentennial Park.

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Scan QR Code to visit our website asheboromagazine.com | 19

TEAMING UP TO BRING CHRISTMAS CHEER TO HOMEBOUND SENIORS

P

by Jill Jackson

arades, light displays, decorated store windows, TV movies and more all set a cheery tone for the holiday season, but the holidays can be a time of intense loneliness and isolation for many seniors who no longer have family or who are physically unable to visit friends and loved ones.

Add to it the toll of COVID-19 on seniors in our community, and the need for a holiday boost is especially high.

In order to make sure that no senior is left behind or forgotten this holiday season, Randolph Senior Adults Association (RSAA) has teamed with several community organizations to provide “Stockings of Care” for area homebound seniors who are enrolled with the Meals on Wheels Program.

For six years now, area seniors have received the stockings as an added bonus to their daily nutritious hot meal. Randolph Quilters Guild Sew-Day Ladies Group hand-sewed and contributed 315 beautiful felt stockings. This year's stockings are filled to the

brim with a wide variety of goodies including candy, hygiene products, trinkets, puzzles, games and more.

For some, it might be the only gift they receive this holiday season.

“Many seniors in our area are isolated, due to physical issues which limit their ability to drive, or because of the loss of a social support network due to relocation, aging or other factors,” said Mark Hensley, RSAA Executive Director. “Some of these seniors don’t get anything at Christmas, not even a visit, so when they receive a gift it just brightens their day."

More than a dozen individuals committed financially to the project and many others gave unselfishly of their time in stuffing and delivering stockings to seniors across Randolph County.

“We are truly thankful for an abundance of community support,” says Hensley. “We could not continue this valuable project without the support of our community.”

Zooland Civitan Club member Debra McNeill delivers a stocking, a hot nutritious meal and a smile to a local senior.

Zooland Civitan Club members Hilda Craven and Sherry Brooks work to fill stockings. The Club has volunteered many hours over the past six years to the “Stockings of Care” project.

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Zooland Civitan Club members and Senior Center staff work hard to fill all the stockings for Seniors.

“Stockings of Care really touched me, especially when you realize how many seniors feel lonely and forgotten at Christmas,” one financial supporter remarked. “It also resonated with me, especially when you hear them try to justify their loved ones absence during the holidays by saying they have their own families or they live too far away.”

This year’s sponsors and contributing partners included: Randolph Quilters Guild Sew-Day Ladies Group; Kayser-Roth Hosiery, Inc.; Sandra Allen; The Flynt Family; J.B. & Claire Davis; Tyler Wilhoit, Real Estate Agent Tyler Redhead & McAlister Wilhoit Group; Partners Consulting Group, Inc.; Vicki Cox Humphries; Vickie Lorimer; United Way of Greater High Point; The Patel Family, Carolina Tap House; Louella Caison; Pennie Davidson and Zooland Civitan Club.

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

Made with love. Randolph Quilters Guild Sew-Day Ladies Group hand-sewed and contributed 315 beautiful felt stockings.

asheboromagazine.com | 21

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CLUES ACROSS 1. Thick piece of something 5. Engine additive 8. Anticipated arrival time 11. French commune 13. Cigarette (slang) 14. Nobleman 15. Ghana capital 16. Adam's wife 17. Most popular student 18. Where you currently are 20. Increase motor speed 21. Queen of Sparta 22. North, South and Central 25. Churchgoer 30. Russian empress 31. Female daredevils organization 32. Relating to music 33. Female body part 38. Tyrion Lannister 41. Honored 43. Argentine footballer 45. Novices 47. Wings 49. Doctors' group 50. Packers' QB 22 | asheboromagazine.com

55. Qatar capital 56. Unpleasant noise 57. Lovable elephant 59. Sleeping 60. Lute 61. Weight of a liter of hydrogen 62. Crimson 63. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

64. Employee plan CLUES DOWN 1. Helps little firms 2. Type of curtain 3. Online stock exchange 4. Irish castle 5. Audio-system 6. Places to grab a drink 7. What's coming 8. Designed chairs 9. Stepped on 10. Genus of birds 12. Consume 14. Ancient Syrian city 19. Australian brewery 23. Not present

24. Necktie 25. What part of (abbr.)

26. Type of compound 27. Jogged quickly 28. Roth is one type 29. Mineral 34. Purpose 35. Financial term (abbr.)

36. Orange is the New Black character 37. Used to cut and shape wood 39. Bullfighter 40. Top of the line 41. Hill 42. Greek mountain 44. Angola's capital 45. Expressed pleasure 46. Fermented honey beverage 47. Month in the Jewish calendar 48. Frontal is one type 51. Basics 52. Uncommon 53. Broad kimono sashes 54. European defense organization 58. Box score term58. 'The __ Degree' 59. Type of residue 61. Keeps you cool

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RECIPE

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Directions 1. Warm the sauce; stir in parmesan and cottage cheeses. Fold in noodles. Pour into 2 greased 2-cup baking dishes. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

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asheboromagazine.com | 25

ZOO TALES

“COME WINTER WITH US AT THE NORTH CAROLINA ZOO!”

W

inter is a wonderful season to visit the North Carolina Zoo. As temperatures drop, crowds become smaller, and many of our animals become more active in their habitats. The North Carolina Zoo is open daily in the winter months from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., so it is a great adventure to get the kids out of the house and for friends and family visiting.

You’ll find more animals actively roaming their habitats in the cooler weather, such as the bison, elk, American red wolves, and polar bears, and arctic foxes. Be sure to stop by and give a warm welcome to our new grizzly bear, Ronan, who just arrived!

Great escapes from the chilly air include our Aviary and Desert dome, both beautiful heated indoor habitats. Both habitats are covered by glass domes

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Story & Photos by Kristi Johnson Marion

for maximum sunlight and warmed to mimic tropical and desert temps and feature gorgeous gardens and unique wildlife.

Tropical Aviary Step out of the cold and into a tropical paradise! The Aviary is a free-flight bird habitat, home to more than 100 birds and 3,000 tropical plants. It’s a lush area to sit on a bench and read a book or sketch a plant. Be sure to arrive at Aviary opening time at 10:00 a.m. to see a flurry of activity as the keepers feed the birds.

Desert Warm your bones in the Desert dome! This colorful arid desert habitat is home to towering Saguaro and other cacti, free-flying desert birds, and an array of lizards, desert tortoises, a porcupine, and nocturnal species such as vampire bats, spiders, and the popular sand cats and ocelots!

Polar Bear Romance One spectacular scene at the Zoo only seen in the winter months is the pairing of our polar bears.

Polar bears Anana (female) and Payton (male) have separate habitats throughout most of the year at the Zoo. The Winter months are the natural breeding season for polar bears in the wild, so during this

time, Payton and Anana will be reintroduced and share their habitat in hopes of a successful breeding season! Be sure to stop by our “Rocky Coast” to visit these lovebirds on your trek through our North America section and wish them luck in producing a polar bear cub!

Arctic Foxes Another treat during the winter months is the return of the fluffy snowy-white coat of the arctic foxes. Say hello to arctic foxes Rizzo and Harley while you are visiting Rocky Coast habitats! Arctic foxes sport a thick, full, and fluffy white coat in winter. Their coats shed in the warmer months, turning a salt-and-pepper grey. This helps camouflage the arctic foxes and hide them from predators and prey from season to season.

Winter Tips for Visiting the Zoo Note that the Africa entrance and parking lot are closed from November to March, but all the African animal habitats are open! Guests should park, enter, and exit through the North America entrance.

Admissions sales for entry are open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day during the winter season. Please note that the Zoo closes at 4 p.m. from November 4 to March 31, 2022.

Remember, NC Zoo Society Members receive free admission and free or reduced admission at many other partner zoos and aquariums.

Membership makes a great Christmas gift! If you're not a member of the North Carolina Zoo, this might be the time to become one! Visit www.nczoo.com to learn more about the benefits of being a member of the Zoo. For more information about admission, weatherrelated closings, animals, habitats, Covid-19 protocols, membership, and more, visit nczoo.org.

asheboromagazine.com | 27

AT THE YMCA

Discover Your Y!

A

t the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA, we are changing lives one at a time. We believe when we work as one, we build a stronger community.

We are a powerful association of men, women, and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility.

We are more than just a fitness center. A membership at the Y also ensure that we keep our services and facility available for kids and families who need it most. Every day, we work to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Everyone belongs at the Y! A membership at the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA is easy and offers you the best value in enjoying the many facets of our organization.

With the New Year approaching, a Membership Drive will be kicking off on December 26th and will run until February 14th. The theme of the Drive will be, “Discover Your Y.” During the Membership Drive the joining fees will be waived, this is a savings that can range from $50-$100.

Nick McNeill, Director of Marketing and Membership says, “When you join the Y, you are helping create a stronger community. We want to focus on the fact that the Y is more than just a fitness center or rec center.

Each Y membership is helping pay for those in the community who need the services we offer the most. We want to raise awareness of all the many different aspects and programs that are taken place on a daily basis within this facility. If you haven’t checked out

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by Nick McNeill, the Y recently, we invite you to come take a tour and discover your Y.” When you join the Y, you're coming together with men, women and children from your community who are committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With the Y, you're not just a member of a facility; you're part of a greater cause.

With a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors, the Y gives you and your community the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

When you join a Y, you join a community organization that offers health, hope and opportunity: Parents find a safe, nurturing environment for their children to stay active, be engaged and learn positive

values. Families come together to have fun and spend quality time with each other. Children and teens play and develop self-confidence while feeling accepted and supported. Adults connect with friends, pursue interests and learn how to live healthier. People from all backgrounds and walks of life come together to volunteer and help strengthen their community.

We all build relationships that further our sense of belonging and purpose!

The Y also offers Nationwide Membership which enables you to visit any participating YMCA in the United States through membership at your “home” YMCA. Valid for active, full facility YMCA members. Nationwide member visitors must use their home Y at least 50% of the time.

For more information about membership rates and programs contact the YMCA at 336.625.1976.

asheboromagazine.com | 29

FEATURE

ASHEBORO BROTHERS EMBRACE THE PIANO, WOWING A RECENT RECITAL AUDIENCE

I

t was February of 2014 when a black Acrosonic Baldwin piano was rolled out of a living room door, down the concrete driveway, down the hill of a paved street to another Shamrock Road neighbor’s living room – and miraculously never needed to be tuned.

Pamela Villagomez had purchased the instrument and wanted to learn to play. But, she had an idea her grandsons, Torren Gutierrez, 10, and Aven Gutierrez, 12, might be interested, too. Since birth, little Torren had always moved his fingers like they were touching the black and white keys. She labeled them for herself. When the piano arrived, the then six-year old Torren sat down and started running his fingers over the keyboard. His grandmother recalls that the notes he played formed a melody.

“He can play by ear, though he likes to rely upon notes. He also likes to rearrange the songs, putting his own spin on the melody,” she said. Still, every now and then, both boys will double-check the keys by looking at her markings.

Torren will listen to a song on the radio and then sit down to play it.

Aven is a seventh grader at Uwharrie Charter Middle School now and Torren is in the fifth grade there. Neither boy had shared their talents with their teachers until one saw the video of their recent recital online. Torren was asked to give a performance. Their music teacher, Carly Hutton, of the Hutton School of Music, raves about both boys.

“Torren’s talent is quite beyond his years,” she said.

“Aven started playing the piano a little later than his brother did. Aven’s recital piece was the favorite ragtime song, “Oh Susanna,” by Stephen Foster. Torren chose “The Entertainer,” by Scott Joplin.

Their success comes with a lot of dedicated practice and encouragement.

Hutton added, “They have a very strong work ethic and come to every class prepared for their lesson.”

Why? They have a routine. After supper, each one plays their assigned song of the week three times.

Hutton says the practice has paid off, as they are

30 | asheboromagazine.com

didn’t make his fingers hurt. There are fewer strings on a ukulele than most guitars. Then he turned to the piano, but will return to the guitar once his fingers get stronger. In the meantime, his piano skills are impressive.

Torren started on the piano. He will be in band next year and looks forward to learning the trumpet and violin. He likes classical music and proudly says Joplin is his favorite composer. Aven isn’t partial to any particular one.

As much as they enjoy playing the piano, they are quick to acknowledge some of the challenges all pianists face – getting the timing right and hitting the correct keys.

“Yes, I definitely think so,” responded Torren when asked if he foresees music in his career. His brother isn’t as sure.

Sal Gutierrez, their father, grinned when he talked about the amount of effort his kids put into learning music and various instruments.

“It’s interesting to hear them say what kind of music always prepared for their lesson. they prefer,” he said. “They have two different kinds of The boys are exploring music. personalities that can come out in the music.”

Aven started on the guitar and migrated to the Hutton sees that too during lessons. ukulele. He said the actually liked it better because it They have a drive to move forward,” she said.

asheboromagazine.com | 31

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