At the YMCA

keepers are hoping they will take to each other and produce cubs. Payton is showing some interest in Anana, but both are being very cautious about their introduction. “It’s developing day-by-day. They’re both taking their time. Blind dating is rough,” said Keeper Melissa. “It’s a lot like online dating. He doesn’t look like his picture, and it’s a little awkward at first.” Usually living in separate habitats at the North Carolina Zoo, the bears will be paired together during mating season (replicating the behavior of wild polar bears) anywhere from February to April. Keepers are easing them into the courtship, so this timing is flexible. Be sure to visit them during this time, and you might see them together!

The North Carolina Zoo is among an elite group of 40 zoos, aquariums, and museums that are Arctic Ambassador Centers (AAC) through a partnership with Polar Bears International (PBI). PBI is the leading conservation group in the world that works to conserve polar bears. Polar bears, native to North America, are listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. There are an estimated 22,000-31,000 in the wild, and polar bear numbers are projected to decline by 30% by 2050. Polar bears are at the top of the food chain in the Arctic. The only threats to polar bears are humans, other polar bears, and climate change as the species struggles to survive. Polar bears are dependent on the sea ice, which is hunting grounds for their primary prey – seals. With less sea ice each season, polar bears are left with a shortened hunting season and less food for survival.

February 27, 2022, was International Polar Bear Day. To “adopt” Payton and/or Anana and support their care at the North Carolina Zoo, visit nczoosocietystore. com/adopt-a-polar-bear. For more information about polar bears and how you can help save them, visit polarbearsinternational.org.

by Nick McNeill,

No one could have imagined back in February of 2020 while enjoying the Your Heart Is At The Y Dinner/Dance just how much was about to change. What ended up as being the last big social event in the area before COVID shut everything down is now making a comeback with plans to be the biggest celebration since that day! The AsheboroRandolph County Your Heart Is At The Y committee is excited to announce our 50th Birthday Bash Dinner Dance.

Join us for an elegant and exciting evening to benefit youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility at the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA! This semi-formal themed event will be held at Pinewood Country Club on Saturday, April 2nd from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM and will consist of dinner, dancing, live auction, cash bar, DJ Gary Hunt, and more!

As you arrive at Pinewood Country Club, each guest will have an opportunity to purchase a birthday present box for themselves. Each $50 or $100 box will contain a special surprise gift valued at a minimum of $50 or $100. Some examples of gifts items include pottery, Mt. Shepherd Camp certificate, Grandfather Mountain day pass, Chick-Fil-A Gift Basket, Starworks glass blown vase, $50.00 First Bank Debit Card, 1 hour Family Photography session with Tied Together Photography, and a $130.00 Hamilton’s Gift Card,

This year’s live auction items will include a Hoover/ Baker/Peterson Low Country Boil, Klaussner Leather Recliner, a One Year Pinewood Country Club Family Membership (New Membership Only), One Year Asheboro Racquet and Swim Club Family Membership (New Membership Only), One Year YMCA Household Membership, Townie Go Electric Bike (donated by JB & Claire Davis), and a Ben Owen Large Red Pottery Piece (donated by Christie Luckenbach).

This event is organized by volunteers of the 'Friends of the Y' Committee and made possible by generous sponsors. A special thank you to all of the sponsors who have been so committed over the past 8 years to making a difference. We look forward to your continued support in 2022.

With several different sponsorship levels to choose from, there is certain to be one that is perfect for you:

PLATINUM: $5,000 – Includes name in program, name on all advertising, recognition during event, priority seating, 10 tickets GOLD: $2,500 – Includes name in program, name on all advertising, recognition during event, priority seating, 8 tickets (1 Table) SILVER: $1,000 – Includes name in program, name on all advertising, recognition during event, 4 tickets BRONZE: $500 – Includes name in program, recognition during event, name on all advertising, 2 tickets COPPER: $250 – Includes name in program, name on all advertising

We are looking forward to dancing for a cause as all proceeds go towards the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA to help make accessible the support and opportunities that empower people and communities to learn, grow, and thrive. The Y nurtures the potential of children and teens, helps people live healthier active lives, and provides opportunities to give back and support our neighbors. In March limited tickets will be made available for the event for $80/person. Sponsorship opportunities are still available as well. For more information regarding sponsorship and tickets, email Fran Knapp at Fmknapp50@gmail.com.