Complimentary
December 2010 • Vol. 1 • Iss. 5
magazine
ASHEBORO The Future is Now!
dr. roma cheek d.d.s living the dream
feature story
zoo zeal
Daniel “Homeless” Mustard
forest aviary
One Day at A Time
community character janet harllee
local holiday shopping guide - page 23-26
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& Happy New Year
volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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table of contents
december 2010
departments
features
letters
7
letters
one day at a time
8
Daniel Mustard grew up in a traditional home in Hollywood, California. His younger years were rife with abuse from his mother. Because of this, he started drinking when he was only ten years old.
17
from the mayor
editorial
dave 2.0 beta
rtist gazing-the figures of artist Cass a Catlett
12 16 21
Children are, by nature, giving little beings – they love to give kisses, they’ll shower you with hugs, they’ll offer you countless pieces of handcrafted artwork – and the more love you give to your children, the more you’ll get back a million-fold (see my post “What You Give The World Gets,” October 20, 2010 at www.TheLetsTalkMom.com).
from the publisher
lets talk: the giving heart
20
6
community news-the arts community news harmonize the world
citizen journalism
light at the end of the tunnel
22 asheboro friendly faces 32 the cellar
thomas jefferson was here
strawberry peach stuffed french toast
janet harllee
sponge nose smarty fins
riginal comic book art to be auctioned o for charity christian musicians donate time & talent to feed the hungry
zoo’s forest aviary warms winter’s chill
bistro 42
joseph sand pottery
part of the solution
33 wine pairing recipe
34 community character 36 daily devotion
37 community news
home for christmas At the base of a granite outcropping, carved with scenes of men and women, one at the wheel of a schooner, some hauling nets, all being watched over by a celestial being, sits a small 25 year old motorhome.
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38 zoo zeal
40 restaurant review 42 business buzz
44 community events 46 going green
dr. roma cheek d.d.s
living the dream Some people are born knowing what they want to do with their life. It’s a calling, and the desire far outweighs the challenges. Dentistry was like that for Dr. Roma Cheek.
4 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
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local holiday shopping guide pages 23-26
Merry Christmas
magazine
ASHEBORO The Future is Now! w w w. a s h e b o r o m a g a z i n e . c o m T |336.698.3889 F | 866.559.2920
Content deadline for the January edition is December 27, 2010.
PUBLISHER Sherry B. Johnson, ext 802 sherry@asheboromagazine.com
VP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT David A. Johnson, ext. 801 dave@asheboromagazine.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Lauren Johnson, ext 803
lauren@asheboromagazine.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
production@asheboromagazine.com
Asheboro Magazine’s printed distribution is 3,000 copies. It is hand-delivered to the upscale neighborhoods in Asheboro which is roughly 1,000 homes. The other 2,000 editions are distributed through high-end retails locations, the library, hotels and other high-traffic areas. Additionally, Asheboro Magazine is available online in digital page-turner format where it is read by approximately 8,000 people.
Asheboro Magazine is published monthly by Crown Harbor Marketing, Inc. Any reproduction or duplication of any part thereof must be done with the written permission of the Publisher. All information included herein is correct to the best of our knowledge as of the publication date. Corrections should be forwarded to the Publisher at the address above. 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.
& Happy New Year
Bianca Taylor Bianca Tyler is an award-winning TV journalist, radio show host, entrepreneur and “Momversationalist™.” Her #1 job is proud mother of a teen and a Kindergartner! Visit her Web site at www. TheLetsTalkMom.com to listen to her radio broadcasts about Life, Love and Parenting – with her husband, Phillip – and to learn more about empowering yourself by “Finding Your Bright Spot.”
Rev. Peter Panagore Reverend Peter Baldwin Panagore of DailyDevotions.org, is a native of Massachusetts, graduated with a Masters of Divinity degree in Divinity from Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut and with a B.A. in English from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. St. John’s High School of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, an Xaverian Brothers sponsored school, provided him with his preparatory school education. In 2003, he was recruited to apply for the position of Pastor of the First Radio Parish Church of America (DailyDevotions. org). FRPCA is America’s oldest continuous religious broadcast, founded 1926, and now reaching 1.5 million listeners, viewers and readers a week on TV, radio and internet, including American Forces Radio Network.
Tom Gillespie For the past 12 years, Tom has been a writer, photographer & public affairs specialist at the North Carolina Zoo. After 20 years as a U.S. Coast Guard photojournalist & pubic-affairs specialist, Tom retired from the military in 1996 to work as senior editor & photo editor for Outdoor Traveler magazine in Charlottesville, VA, before coming to the zoo. Tom earned a photography degree from Randolph Community College & a photojournalism degree from Syracuse University. He has won national & international awards with his photography. His work has appeared in Time, National Review, USAToday, The Washington Post, The New York Times & in almost all major East Coast newspapers. Tom’s column Zoo Tales appears in about 25 newspapers across the state. He & his wife Debra live in Trinity, NC
Dave Lowa Dave Lowa has been writing for himself and his family for years. His professional life has spanned over 30 years and has primarily focused on the helping professions. He has been a Family Service Director for the Salvation Army, Director of a Food Bank that served 12 counties in north central Pennsylvania, and has been an Adjunct Professor of Health System Economic and Finance. He is licensed as Administrator of Assistant Living Facilities in Massachusetts, Florida, and North Carolina and holds a Master’s Degree in Health System Administration from Rochester Institute of Technology. Dave has traveled extensively in the US, Europe and Canada. He has been an active boater with his home port on Cape Cod. He lives in Asheboro with his very patient wife, Sharon.
Live Away? Want to Receive Asheboro Magazine in your Mailbox? Want to Give Asheboro Magazine as a Gift? Enjoy a Year of Asheboro Magazine for only $29.95 • Subscribe online at www.ashemag.info Asheboro Magazine is published 12 times a year. Please allow 7-10 days for your first issue to arrive. volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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from the publisher
2011
letters
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know that we care about them, and they aren’t forgotten at this time of year. Adopt a family less fortunate through any number of wonderful -6 programs offered here and in Randolph -3 County, and make their smiles brighter -A on Christmas morning. Volunteer -C your time at your church or other civic -T organization if they are feeding people who might otherwise not get a hot meal on Christmas Day. Whatever you choose to do, as little or as much as you are able to do, it will make someone’s Christmas that much brighter. While you are finishing up your JOIN last minute Christmas shopping, please take a look at our Local Holiday No Shopping Guide in the magazine and Met the larger version online for wonderful Two merchants right here in Asheboro to Re support. They have lots of gifts in a range of prices. Think Local First when you are out shopping, and support our local economy. EXPANDING YOUR COMMUNITY YMCA IN 2011! I like to take this time each year ADDITIONS RENOVATIONS as it draws to a close and reflect on -6,000 Sq Ft Fitness Center -Family Locker Rooms -3 Group Fitness Studios -Nursery the changes and growth that occur -Adult Only Locker Rooms -Youth Programs Center COMM EXPANDING YOUR each and every year; and speculate -Community Meeting Room -Pool -Teen & Senior Center -Gymnasium YMCA IN 2011! on what exciting surprises the New BREAKING GROUND Year will have in store. One thing I ADDITIONSIN JANUARY!RENOV know for sure, it will not be boring – life -6,000 Sq Ft Fitness Center -Family Lock MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN -3 Group Fitness Studios -Nursery rarely is. I’m also working on my New JOIN DECEMBER 13, 2010-FEBRUARY 14, 2011 FOR… -Adult Only$70-$100)! Locker Rooms -Youth Prog No Joinging Fees (SAVE Heated/Indoor/25 Year’s resolutions (I don’t like to wait Meter Pool, Three-Court Gymnasium, YOUR COMMUNITY -Community MeetingWellness Room Center, -Pool till the last minute). OneEXPANDING I make every Two Racquetball Courts, Youth/Adult/Senior Fitness, $25 -Teen & Senior Center -Gymnasium YMCA IN 2011! Registration Fee For Afterschool Programs Waived! year is to get fit and join a gym which usually lasts as long asADDITIONS the Christmas RENOVATIONS BREAKING GROUND IN JA -6,000 Sq Ft Fitness -Family Locker Rooms decorations take to come down. This Center -3 Group Fitness Studios -Nursery year, I’m going to change all that – I’m -Adult Only Locker Rooms -Youth Programs Center joining the Asheboro Zumba groupMeeting that Room -Pool -Community JOIN DECEMBER 13, 2010-FEBRUARY 1 -Teen & -Gymnasium currently meets three times a Senior weekCenter at No Joinging Fees (SAVE $70-$100)! Heat Magnolia on Worth, I’m going to start MeterIN Pool, Three-Court Gymnasium, We BREAKING GROUND JANUARY! BREAKING GROUND IN JANUARY! using my Curves membership and I’m Two Racquetball Courts, Youth/Adult/Sen going to get out and walk more. MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN Registration Fee For Afterschool Progra Have a wonderful holiday season, JOIN DECEMBER 13, JOIN DECEMBER 13, 2010-FEBRUARY 14, 2011 FOR… whichever way you choose to celebrate No Joinging Fees (SAVE $70-$100)! Heated/Indoor/2514, 2010-FEBRUAURY it. Be careful, be kind,Meter be warm. Pool, Three-Court Gymnasium, Wellness Center,
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s I write this letter on the eve of printing our fifth issue of Asheboro Magazine, I reflect on the journey that brought our family to Asheboro. It’s a series of small steps, but clearly there was a master plan that led us to Asheboro, North Carolina. This community is a wonderful testament to Southern hospitality. We couldn’t feel more at home than if we had moved back to our hometown in Maine where I grew up. I’d like to thank all the people we have met over the past six months. We are humbled again and again by the outpouring of support and good wishes for the success of the magazine, and the enjoyment people get from reading it each month. We hope that you will all consider contributing from time to time. We welcome stories, pictures, and other items that you want to share with our readers. With all of the Christmas celebrations, Hanukkah parties, and general merriment that this time of year brings, please take a moment to remember those that are less fortunate . Give of yourself just a little more to show how grateful you are for what you have. Pick up an ornament at Walgreens and let a Senior Citizen
EXPANDING YOUR COMMUNITY YMCA IN 2011!
2011
Dear Reader
2011
Sherry B. Johnson Publisher
2011
M
MEMBERSHIP CAM
2011 FOR...No Joining Fees
Two Racquetball Courts, Youth/Adult/Senior Fitness, $25
(SAVEPrograms $70-$100)! Heated/ Merry Christmas!! Registration Fee For Afterschool Waived!
Sincerely,
Sherry
6 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Sherry Johnson, Publisher facebook.com/asheboromagazine
Indoor/25 Meter Pool, ThreeCourt Gymnasium, Wellness Center, Two Racquetball Courts, Youth/Adult/Senior Fitness, $25 Registration Fee for Afterschool Programs Waived!
Merry Christmas
letters
from the mayor
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s the year wraps up, I can’t help but look back at 2010 with pride. It’s been a joy to serve as Mayor of the City of Asheboro. I have a front-row seat to all the exciting things happening in our town, and to the hard work and dedication of city council and staff. David H. Smith Mayor, City of Asheboro Over the past year, we’ve seen Randolph County’s unemployment rate drop from 12.8% in January to 9.3% as of October. There were 205 new jobs created in Asheboro in 2010, and we have entered into grant agreements with Allen Precision Industries and Malt-o-Meal for the creation of 94 more jobs over the next three years. Randolph Community College has seen record enrollment, as our citizens deal with the changing economy by training for new jobs. Within City government, we’ve completed distribution of recycling roll carts and every singlefamily home in the city now receives curb-side recycling pick-up. We are making plans to add recycling pick-up for businesses and multi-family housing. We’ve also succeeding in raising $1.2 million for the renovation of the historic Sunset Theatre. The ability to raise this funding in difficult financial times is a sign of how important the community considers this facility, and the commitment they have to transforming this old movie house into a top-rate performing arts facility. We’re
& Happy New Year
still trying to raise a little more so that we can go beyond the basic renovations proposed, but we’re confident that you’ll see the theatre transformed in 2011. Our community events continue to be a huge success. We were proud to partner with the Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce for the first downtown cruise-in series which brought hundreds
of classic car fans to town over the summer. Our second annual Trick-orTreat in the Park event was an even more resounding success than last year, with over 5,000 people attending. Our Neighborhood Crime Watch program started this year, and we now have six communities taking an active role in keeping their neighborhoods crime-free. This year we’ve also seen a commitment to preserving the past
and telling our story. We were named a Preserve America community, and worked with the Randolph County Historic Landmark Preservation Commission to begin recognizing historic buildings and sites within our community. Volunteer Ricky Allred’s tours of the Old Asheboro Cemetery are consistently drawing groups of 40 or more people who want to hear stories of Asheboro’s past. This interest in our past reminds us that we live in a community with a unique and important history, and that we have to remember who we have been in order to know where we are going. I could write for days about the wonderful things happening in Asheboro, and I hope that in 2011 we find even more ways to share these sorts of updates with you. It’s an exciting time to live in Asheboro, as we take the small-town values and community spirit we’ve always held dear into a future of renewed economic prosperity, excellence in education and improved quality of life. To all the residents of Asheboro, I wish you a wonderful holiday season!
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editorial Dave Johnson VP, Business Development www.dave20.com
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love this time of year but not for the reason you might think. The presents, parties, food and treats that seem never ending at times, while fun, aren't the things that make this time of year special to me. I love this time of year because most people are more charitable now than any other time. There are numerous organizations out there whose entire reason for existing is to make sure underprivileged kids have a nice Christmas, too. This weekend, while we were out and about, we stopped in at the North Ridge Church to get some Chili to help them raise funds for the Dream Center. The Dream Center is a non-profit organization designed to provide a mentoring program and educational services to at-risk students. We were given a tour and told about the positive impact it has had on the local children who might otherwise not have an opportunity to excel. It dawned on me then that one of the reason I have come to love Asheboro so much is the tremendous giving spirit that I see on a daily basis. This is truly a community that takes care of one another and the strong spirit of giving is infectious. So much so that we are going to be volunteering on Christmas Eve and Day helping others serve food to those who are less fortunate than we are. We've decided that this will make for a magnificent new family holiday tradition. If you aren't already doing something similar, there are plenty of organizations that could use your help during this busy time of year. I'd like suggest that from this point forth, we celebrate the giving part of the holiday season 365 days a year. We could create a new holiday and call it Giving 365. You could send Happy Giving 365 cards to friends and family members just to let them know you are thinking of them. You could put up a
dave 2.0 beta
Giving 365 wreath to remind others about the importance of giving. In fact, you could do everything you do for the Holidays all year long. Or, at a minimum you could find someone in need to give something to once a month. And when I say give something, I don't mean something that costs money. Many people just need someone to come by their house and share a cup of coffee or tea with them. Giving 365 could be whatever you wanted it to be with the goal of keeping the giving spirit alive all year long. I think about the joy I receive from giving and I get excited about the prospect of extending this feeling over an entire year. Please help me make this new holiday a reality. Tell everyone you know about Giving 365. Do something nice for someone out of the blue and afterward say, "Happy Giving 365". It may seem goofy at first, but after a while it will just become part of your daily routine. And, just imagine what a wonderful world ours will become if we put giving at the forefront of everything we do. In closing, I'd like to thank everyone that has given to Asheboro Magazine. Many of the folks that contribute material do so without expecting anything in return. Bianca Tyler, Doug High, Dave Lowa, Rev. Peter Panagore and many others. I have said that Asheboro Magazine is going to become what Asheboro Magazine wants to become and it is evolving just the way it is supposed to. Without these people and the fantastic businesses that support our endeavor by advertising with us, there — Zig Ziglar would be no magazine. We feel so very fortunate to call each and every one of them friends. Happy Holiday, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy, Happy Giving 365.
“You can have everything in life that you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
8 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Dave
Merry Christmas
wharaj@triad.rr.com
w w w. w a y n e t t e a r a j . c o m
& Happy New Year
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living the dream by sherry johnson
photos contributed by: dr. roma cheek, dds
10 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
S
ome people are born knowing what they want to do with their life. It’s a calling, and the desire far outweighs the challenges. Dentistry was like that for Dr. Roma Cheek. When she found dental hygiene as a profession, Dr. Cheek knew immediately her passion for dentistry would lead her to go further and become a dentist. Graduation from dental hygiene school presented a step toward her dream. While waiting for the results from her licensure exam, she found out she was expecting her first child. After much soul searching, she chose to spend quality time with her family, so she put her personal dreams on hold and became a mom, while continuing to work as a dental hygienist. Her husband Gerry worked for an electronics company, and for the first few years they moved around quite a bit within his territory, living in cities and towns throughout North and South Carolina. In order to work in another state, Dr. Cheek traveled to Charleston to take the South Carolina licensure exam. With North and South Carolina licenses in hand, she could work in either state. As the couple settled into an area, she would look into taking classes to continue to garner the courses needed to apply to dental school. In time, the Cheek family relocated back to North Carolina. In deciding on a place to live, they chose Asheboro. To the Cheeks, originally from Robbins, Asheboro had always felt like home with its quaint, family-like atmosphere. She and Gerry had been on lots of dates to Asheboro as teenagers. While raising her sons, Seth and Adam, who were
Merry Christmas
born 12 years apart, she worked as a dental hygienist wherever they lived. When Adam entered elementary school, she knew it was time to pursue her own dreams again. Her desire to be a dentist had never gone away, and she wasn’t going to rest until she accomplished it. She began taking courses at night, while continuing to work during the day. Her acceptance to the University of North Carolina’s School of Dentistry came in 2001. Seth was off to Appalachian State University, and the family relocated to Chapel Hill so she could attend classes full time. Dr. Cheek loved dental school. “I have always been inspired by the quote from George Eliot.” says Dr. Cheek It is never too late to become what you might have been. The atmosphere of learning at UNC was awesome.” Dr. Cheek graduated from UNC School of Dentistry in 2005 - one weekend apart from her son, Seth from Appalachian State. Once again Asheboro would become home, as a very gracious dentist who had known Dr. Cheek for many years offered to have her join his practice as an associate. “Dr. Gary Parks has been very kind and helpful. My working in his office helped me get started.” In addition to working as an associate, Dr. Cheek worked with the Lexington County Health Department doing dentistry on a vast majority of children. With Access Dental Care, she has enjoyed helping with dental care to seniors in assisted living facilities like Cross Roads Retirement Center. Access Dental Care takes the dental equipment to the facility and sets up on site to provide dental care to the residents. This was very rewarding but as her practice began to grow, she had to give up the extra work. While practicing in Asheboro Dr. Cheek began looking for more space. She found several opportunities but none of them felt quite right. When the home on Sunset Avenue became available, it was perfect. She wanted her office to be welcoming and feel more like a home than a clinical office. While they were renovating and decorating Gerry would bring
& Happy New Year
samples for her to pour over and choose for the décor during her lunch hours. Everything was important, and no detail was too small to give it her personal attention. The comfort of the patient was of great importance. Her office was recently presented in a competition for the Best Office Décor of a single practitioner size. The result of the labor has been a practice that embraces technology. Her reception area may look like a living room, but the operatories have the latest in dental equipment. She uses digital x-ray technology for regular and panoramic x-rays, so the amount of exposure to the x-rays is very minimal to the patient. Sensors enhance the image and it is available immediately, no waiting for the x-rays to be developed. It’s also much better for the environment, with no toxic chemicals needing to be disposed of. Her office is also paperless, as every exam room has a computer terminal and monitor available to the hygienist, dental assistant and dentist - records are available with a login and password. Flat screens are available for the patients in every room that can be positioned for reviewing x-rays or watching TV. X-rays can also be emailed directly to another specialty practice if they have the technology to receive it, rather than being hand carried to their office. Exam chairs offer a gentle air-based massage while you are being treated to relax you. All these details enhance the patients’ enjoyment of their visit to the dentist office, and help to relax nervous patients. In keeping with the technological advances, patients have their option of how they will be reminded of their appointments – they can receive the traditional phone call, an email or a text message on their cell phone – or any combination of the above. Dr. Cheek feels that the real stars of her practice are her patients. She doesn’t just inform them of what they need and move on. She takes the time and attention to make sure the patient understands all their options, and then helps them make an informed decision that is right for them. The care
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of her patients and their comfort is her number one priority. If you ask her patients, the one word you hear over and over to describe her is “Compassion.” Her gratification in the work comes when the patient is in tears as they smile in the mirror, because they are so happy. Dr. Cheek and her staff provide an exceptional amount of detail to assure the dentistry received is of the highest quality. Her love of learning continues as she does many times the amount of continuing education required for her license renewal. “I enjoy working with a very fine staff.” Quote Dr. Cheek. Dr. Cheek’s staff consists of Vickie Hughes (Financial Coordinator), Mandy Ashley (Appointment Coordinator/ Assistant), Jamie Garner (Dental Assistant), Tina Ivey (Dental Hygienist) and Kathy Allred (Dental Hygienist). “These wonderful ladies take very good care of our patients.” Dr. Cheek’s professional associations include the Randolph County Dental Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, Docs Sedation, North Carolina Dental Society, American Dental Association, Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce, & the Mid State Rotary Club. When she has free time, she loves to read novels of espionage. The book has to grab her attention in the first paragraph, one of her favorite authors is Tom Clancy. She also enjoys outdoor activities with her family, such as boating
and water skiing. They are members of the First Presbyterian Church congregation and she sings in the choir and plays the hand bells. Gerry plays trombone, and plays in the brass ensemble for Easter. Traditions and family mean a lot to Roma. When her mom passed away 12 years ago, she became the keeper of the traditions in her family. Her father, Arnold Swindell, has moved to Asheboro and now resides at Mountain Top. “He is a sweetie and was very supportive of my desire to become a dentist.” states Dr. Cheek Her 13 family members gather at her house on Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas each year. The festivities start at breakfast when her father arrives. They share love, laughter and great food throughout the day and well into the evening – telling stories and laughing. The kids spend time outdoors, and commandeer the den to play games like Rock Band on the Wii. When the food is put away and the kitchen is clean, the adults join the kids in their games. The kids play until they literally fall asleep where they sit. For Dr. Cheek, it was always a question of when she would continue her education and become a Dentist, not if. She knew she wanted to practice the art of dentistry and knew what she needed to do to make it happen. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams and make them a reality if you believe in yourself.
“I didn’t ever want to say, I should have done that.”
12 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
Rise, Shine, Eat Chicken Breakfast is Served at E. Dixie Dr. 6:30 am -10:30 am
425 Randolph Mall (336) 626-6688
1212 E. Dixie Dr. (336) 633-1303
facebook.com/asheborochickfila
& Happy New Year
volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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community news
ARTIST GAZING
the arts
the figures of artist cass catlett by scott plaster
“I
had definitely never considered that I could or would make art. In fact, like many people, I did not consider myself a ‘creative’ person,” said visual artist Cass Catlett. This statement is shocking when you witness the remarkable power of her latest female figure series. Amy Keith Barney of the Circa Gallery in Asheboro says, “her work is colorful, delightful, and sure to influence people’s emotions with just a glance of her carefully painted pieces. One can’t help but want to travel to the places she has created and be surrounded by the vibrant colors.” So what led her to say one day, “I’m going to do this no matter what” and begin painting? Catlett had been around art her entire life, visiting famous museums across
the country and in Europe when she lived there in the 1970’s. Then one day in 2003, her partner Gabrielle asked her the question, “What is your heart’s desire?” She described her response: “After a few moments of having no answer to that, I literally heard myself say: “Well, I’ve always wanted to paint”. It was a shock to me.” Catlett wrestled with conflicting emotions for the next few weeks, including negative self-talk, fear of disappointing others, fear of failure. Catlett finally put aside these fears and began painting. She calls her experience of facing these paralyzing doubts, “walking through the veil of fear.” Under the initial direction of watercolor painter Jo Leeds of Greensboro, Catlett discovered her inner ability to draw, choose colors, and paint.
14 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Serving as inspiration for us all, Catlett is now 62, and says a person is never too old to explore a desire or dream. Until beginning work in her own studio in Fisher Park, Catlett was one of the Lyndon Street artists, where she both created and sold her work. She now exhibits her work in a number of venues, including the Gallery of the Arts in WinstonSalem, Artwalk in Boone, and the Circa Gallery in Asheboro. She is also a member of the Cosmic Cow Society (www. cosmiccowsociety.com), a select group of artists from central North Carolina with the mission of changing the way the public views art. With this group, Catlett has found new venues for her work, including a show at the Community Arts Cafe’s Underground Theatre in Winston-Salem.
Merry Christmas
The recent reception on November 19 including a “Small Talks Art Symposium” where she was able to (very quickly - 25 seconds per image!) discuss her new female figure series. The unique paintings feature female figures in various positions adorned with vivid colors, outlines, and figurative lines. She explains her interest in these figures, saying “I became intrigued with presenting female figures in compositions using strong design elements and color which I found excited my imagination.” Catlett’s figure series capture an interesting “yin / yang” of the feminine and masculine, she explains: “Being female, it is of course about my journey as a woman. You will see space divided in organic shapes and lines like curves, arcs,
etc. that suggest the feminine or yin energy. There are also shapes and lines of masculine/yang energy in each painting that ultimately may say something about the androgynous or the balance of yin/yang. Personally, as a painter, my journey over the last several years has and continues to be about finding and honoring the balance of both feminine and masculine energy in my paintings.” True of so much great art, Catlett’s paintings remain alluring and mysterious. She says, “I would say that these paintings are all about reflection, in all of the meanings of that word, both inward and outward. The element of mystery is always important in all of my work and this is especially true of these paintings. The mystery must be there for me.”
You can learn more about Cass Catlett at her website at www.casscatlett.com and keep up with events of the Cosmic Cow Society on its website at www. cosmiccowsociety.com or its Facebook page. Catlett’s work is on display at the Community Arts Cafe show and the Gallery of the Arts in Winston-Salem, Artwalk in Boone, Zaytoon in Greensboro, the Circa Gallery in Asheboro, and other venues across the Triad. You can view more of her work, including the figure series, in her online gallery at tinyurl.com/ casscatlettgallery.
SOLD
& Happy New Year
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community news
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everly Dale has been directing singing groups since 1970. She recently returned to the role of director after a 10 year absence. When she started searching for a director position, there were positions available in Virginia, but she and her husband didn’t want to relocate from their home in Winston-Salem. Never one to let a small thing like that stop her, she began the process of starting a new chapter of Sweet Adelines International, a highly respected worldwide organization of women singers. Beverly took a look at the current chapters in the area, and in looking at a map, the obvious choice became clear and the Zoopendous Show Chorus was born in Asheboro. She held a tea for potential chorus members at The Exchange on September 14th, and the rest as they say, is history. The ladies handed out flyers at the Asheboro Fall Festival with invitations to a Guest Night on October 7th. Thirty-five ladies attended the event. A group of more than 20 ladies meet every Thursday evening at the First Baptist Church on Church Street. They have members who drive in from Southern Pines, Fayetteville, WinstonSalem and Greensboro to sing each week. They range in age from a 23 year old UNCG student to the most senior member, who is over 80 years old. Sweet Adelines International is committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performance. Barbershop
16 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
harmonize the world
harmony is four-part, unaccompanied, close-harmony. Melody in the second voice, called the "lead" is sung in the range between A below middle C, and C above middle C. Tenor is a harmony part sung consistently above the lead. Although tenor is the highest voice in barbershop harmony, it should not be confused with the soprano of conventional singing groups. The tenor should have a light, sweet, pure tone that will complement but not overpower the lead voice. Baritone covers approximately the same range as lead. The baritone harmony notes cross the lead notes; sometimes sung below and sometimes above. Bass singers should have a rich, mellow voice and be able to sing the E flat below middle C easily. Bass should not be confused with the alto of conventional groups. Members extend over five continents and belong to more than 500 choruses and 1,200 quartets. Today's Sweet Adelines choruses and quartets sing exciting a cappella, four-part harmony music, barbershop style. The music includes special arrangements of today's ballads and upbeat songs, popular show tunes, and even jazz. Members say that singing the powerfully balanced sounds of barbershop harmony provides a rich, rewarding experience. Some of the ladies have been singing with other chapters for many years, and many have never been in a group like this. “If you can sing Happy Birthday in tune, we want you singing with us,” Beverly stated. If you happen to be in the vicinity of the First Baptist Church on Church Street in Asheboro on a Thursday evening around 7:00 pm and hear the dulcet voices raised in song, stop by and join the party.
Merry Christmas
HOMELESS
one day at a time by dave johnson photos provided by daniel mustard
I
am politically ambivalent. In other words, I am disillusioned by our political process. It seems so self serving and, in the big spectrum of things, has very little to do with me. I vote but it feels futile because even if the person I vote for wins, very little if anything ever changes. And then I look around at the state of our country, supposedly one of the strongest in the world and I am embarrassed. While we spend trillions on a war that we can’t win, fifty million Americans go hungry, unemployment continues to skyrocket, and more and more people lose their homes every day. Additionally, 30 million Americans are uninsured and our educational system is in shambles. All the while oil companies, banks and major corporations post record profits. I wonder if anyone else wakes up, scratches their head and says, “There is something monumentally wrong with our system.” I have had a soft spot in my heart for the homeless as long as I can remember. I don’t recall the first time I ever met a homeless person, but I am confident I felt sorry for them. I remember my ultraconservative father saying something to me like “homeless people choose to be homeless” and me thinking who would choose to be homeless if they could have a roof over their head. Who would choose sleeping in a cardboard box in the
& Happy New Year
street instead of a mattress underneath sheets and covers? Who would choose eating out of a dumpster over a hot meal at a table with loved ones? I realized then that my father, like so many, and are quick to judge without walking in the tattered shoes of a homeless person. And yet there, but for the grace of God, go any one of us. Most people probably don’t think of homelessness much, if at all. In rural areas like Asheboro, what there is isn’t easy to see. That is, unlike New York City, there aren’t homeless people on every street corner asking for your loose change. But, the reality is, we are much closer to becoming homeless than any of us care to imagine. And, as you will see in this story, it doesn’t take much to find yourself a productive member of society one minute and a homeless alcoholic the next. Depending on your emotional disposition and your support system (i.e. family and friends), it can happen in the blink of an eye. So, while it is easy to discount the likelihood of something like homelessness happening to you, I would ask for the sake of this story that you try to imagine what circumstances it would take to become homeless and, what it would be like to be homeless. In this season of giving, please make it a goal to find a homeless person and show them a little kindness, because as you will see, it goes a long way. Daniel Mustard grew up in a traditional home in Hollywood, California. His younger years were rife with abuse from his mother. Because of this, he started drinking when he was only ten years old. Despite the less than ideal upbringing, he persevered, grew into an adult, got a job, got married and settled into being a productive member of society. Then disaster struck. His wife left him, taking most of their possessions, including their dog. Shortly after that his father, who he was very close to, passed away. Daniel found himself slipping into a constant state of depression. This resulted in the loss of his job and after six months, he was broke. He left Hollywood for New York City, to housesit for his sister, who was going to be out of the country for a while. She offered Daniel a place to stay while he tried to get his life back together. It was in New York that Daniel really started putting his time and heart into volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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his music. Try as he might though, the pain caused by the losses in his life was unbearable and when his new employer, Tower Records went out of business, he lost his will to live. This resulted in a strained relationship with his sister who eventually asked him to move out of her home. And that was Daniel’s very short journey from a regular person like anyone of us to becoming homeless. This isn’t a story about a mentally ill person who could not assimilate himself into “normal” society, whatever normal is. This is about anyone of us, your neighbor, a friend or an associate experiencing the perfect emotional storm and the resulting fall-out. Fast forward three years and Daniel found himself on the Sirius Radio’s Opie and Anthony show as part of their “Homeless Shopping Spree” where they create a humorous show making fun of the homeless while providing them with the clothing and incidentals they need to weather the New York winters. My friend summed up the gist of this show best with the term “Karmic Cancellation”;
the good Karma created by the charity cancels out the bad created by them taking advantage of the homeless on their show for the sake of entertaining their listeners. Daniel “Homeless” Mustard is a familiar face in Washington Square Park, known for its arch, honoring George Washington, and thanks to his appearance on the show is now a familiar name on You Tube. His videos have been seen well over 2 million times, collectively. To put this into perspective, only a handful of videos ever hit 100,000 views and you have a better chance of winning the lottery than posting a video that gets 1 million views. In fact, according to bookofodds. com, you have roughly a 1 and 3.1 million chance at getting a million views in the first 30 days after posting a video to YouTube. One of Daniel’s videos, his rendition of Radiohead’s Creep, has gotten 1.6 million views. It was this particular video that introduced me to Daniel “Homeless” Mustard and, hence, this article. Someone in the background
of the video states, “the only version of this song I have heard sung better is the original” and, I would say Mr. Mustard’s rendition is the better of the two. I will spare you my diatribe on the tastelessness of this radio program... suffice it to say I don’t believe there is enough Good Karma in the universe to offset that Bad Karma created by treating people in this fashion. However, if Daniel had not appeared on Opie and Anthony, we would never have had the opportunity to get to know him and, ultimately, call him friend. From the moment I saw Daniel’s video, I felt compelled to do what I could for him. Anyone that has over a million hits on YouTube is somewhat of a celebrity, so I searched for Daniel on Facebook. I reached out to him there and asked him if he would consider doing an interview for a small magazine in North Carolina. He was very kind and gracious and agreed to do it. The only problem is he doesn’t have a phone of his own. After his appearance on the Opie and Anthony show, he entered a rehabilitation
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Merry Christmas
program and is now in a half-way house trying to re-enter society. So, after a few near misses, we finally connected on the phone and had a great conversation; I felt like I was talking to a long lost friend. I don’t know what I expected, but I didn’t expect an articulately intelligent person on the other end of the line but that is exactly what I got. He talked candidly, unashamed, of his circumstances and no question was taboo. I had done quite a bit of research on Daniel prior to talking with him so I already had quite a bit of information to work with. The thing that weighed heavy on my mind was the cold, cruel reality of living on the streets. I couldn’t imagine how difficult life must be for someone with nowhere to go and nowhere to call home. What I discovered surprised me in some ways and in others made sense. For example, when I asked Daniel about basic necessities like food he said “no one goes hungry in New York. In fact, I probably eat better than you do”. Apparently, at the end of the night, restaurants put food out for the homeless. That is, instead of putting it in the dumpster, chefs from restaurants all across the city put the food in see through bags near the dumpster. This prevents them from violating any city rule or ordinance regarding the distribution of unused food and provides sustenance for many of the homeless. Plus, Daniel said, people are very generous when it comes to giving money to panhandlers which, he said, is very hard for him to do and one of the main reasons he was drunk most of the time. He said that homelessness is not an ideal lifestyle but it isn’t as bad as he thought it would be. The other homeless people that hang out in Washington Park have become his support group and family. He spends a great deal of
time there writing and playing music and just hanging out. Because of the Opie and Anthony show he has become somewhat of a celebrity and people are constantly recognizing him on the streets of Manhattan. Jokingly, he said this makes it easier to bum a cigarette. He went on to say, because of his YouTube fame, some people actually come to Washington Park to seek him out. He said he has met some really fantastic people and even has a new friend from Delaware who he has visited on a number of occasions.
tunnel. Since I spoke with him, he has released a five-song album (available on iTunes) and is playing at various venues around NYC. His Facebook pages are all atwitter with “mad props” for the quality of his new album and he appears to be on the right track for a full recovery. However, right before we ended our conversation, I asked him if there was anything he needed and he said, “I am still technically homeless. I don’t have a job yet, and really have no way other than my music and panhandling to make money. And, because of my three years on the street, I am not too proud to accept anything you are willing to send”. We are sending a care package with items he can use, like long underwear. In a time that seems bleak, there is a silver lining on most dark clouds. Often times, it goes unnoticed because we are too caught up in our own problems. “Homeless” Mustard -- Dennis Kucinich Daniel is one of those silver linings. He is hope personified and he represents what can After an hour of conversation, I happen to a person who is down and out finally asked him what his hopes were when others reach out with a helping now that he has started to turn his hand. As I listen to soulful songs on his life around. In his very casual way he brilliant album, I smile knowing that he said, “I really have no plans and don’t has a very bright future ahead of him. want to make any promises. I have But, he is just one of many lost souls always sung, even as a kid, so I want to who could benefit from the kindness of continue to write songs and pursue my a stranger. Next time you encounter music career. Before appearing on the a homeless person, don’t be quick to Opie and Anthony Show, I never gave judge and think about the happiness a any thought about becoming a star. I little spare change could provide for a still don’t think of it much, but it seems person who doesn’t have the privilege closer now than it did before and its of having a regular place to call home. keeping me motivated to stay off the More importantly, be grateful for what streets. I guess, I am going to take it one you have and remember there are many day at a time.” others out there with far less. For a guy that once shared the stage with Lady Gaga (before she was famous), it seems as though there is light at the end of a very long and dark
“Poverty is a weapon of mass destruction. Homelessness is a weapon of mass destruction. Unemployment is a weapon of mass destruction.”
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LET’S TALK
the giving heart by bianca tyler
C
hildren are, by nature, giving little beings – they love to give kisses, they’ll shower you with hugs, they’ll offer you countless pieces of handcrafted artwork – and the more love you give to your children, the more you’ll get back a millionfold (see my post “What You Give The World Gets,” October 20, 2010 at www. TheLetsTalkMom. com). As kids get older, that giving trend may start to turn to more of a “Me-meme” attitude. Continue to teach them to open their hearts and give willingly. And let them take ownership in those tasks – for example, let your child put the money in the bell ringer’s bucket outside of the store. Or let your child decide what nonperishables to put into the shopping cart for the local food drive. Bring your children to the collection station and let them put the goods into the bins themselves. Giving should be a year-round joy. It’s easy to remember it around the holidays, you can’t get away from people asking for help. But don’t wait to be asked. Meals and clothing are needed in the summertime, too. In our home, we keep a “Running Donation’s Box” in the storage room. At any given time, one of my children may come up to me and say, “I don’t need this anymore.” I immediately have a place to put it, the house keeps from getting cluttered and someone else will get to enjoy the item. I always let my children decide what books, toys and clothing they no longer wish to keep. Again, it gives them ownership in giving and eliminates the potential for the classic, “Why did you get rid of that?? I loved it!” although you clearly knew they hadn’t used the item in ages. I’d like to share with you that last Christmas, after all the gifts were opened, my husband pulled out a surprise envelope and said, “This is a special family gift.” Then he handed me 20 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
the envelope and I read it out loud to everyone. I choked up as I read that he donated an operation for a child suffering from a severe cleft palate through the program Operation Smile. It would change the life of a little person forever. That will go down as one of our best Christmas’ ever. Those memories were simply indelible to all who were present that beautiful evening – especially to the children who are learning about giving through example. Giving doesn’t have to be tangible items or money, often charities need people who can donate their time. A few days ago, my husband and I brought the children and one of their friends to a special “packing party” for Operation Christmas Child. During a 3-hour period, along with all of the other volunteers, we filled 1,000 plastic shoe boxes with goodies for children living in extreme poverty in other parts of the world. Each box was marked for a boy or girl, ages 2-4, 5-9 and 10-14. Items included school supplies, a washcloth, a comb, candy canes, stickers, a t-shirt, toy helicopters, beaded necklaces, little rings and bracelets, hair accessories and yo-yos, loads of knick knacks that could fill every crevice and, of course, for each child, 1 cuddly stuffed animal. At the end of the event, the teen friend we brought along thanked us for letting him experience one of the greatest feelings he’s ever felt “doing something for someone else.” In a world where we see our teens hooked on X-Boxes, I-Pad, I-Pods, incessant texting and other technological paraphernalia, good old-fashioned, hands-on volunteering
Merry Christmas
citizen journalism light at the end of the tunnel
really does bring out the feel-good by scott r. davis fuzzies in any person, old or young. I was proud of the children. Our 5 year old reveled in the feeling she s we are in the middle of the holidays, there are got from being many obstacles that we must face. Whether we able to independently fill each box, picking out any items she are in the middle of a loss of a family member or wanted, and then filling the boxes by herself (yes, all boxes – are in the middle of a drawn out job hunt with no regardless of the packer’s age – were checked for gender and prospects in sight, there is light at the end of the tunnel that age appropriate items, of course). shines ever so faintly which guides one's way. The dimming and readjustment of the light for me came at the beginning of this summer when I walked into work one Monday morning and set out to do my daily work. What followed was the summoning of me to the office of my boss to find out that it was my last day. I was being given a new set of clothes to wear. Not ones that I wanted to wear. I always vowed to keep my former job and to fight through each day. But I have learned to wear this new set of clothes and to like what I have been given. It is so important during these days of life to have a strong support group of friends in order to get through the challenges of going through the ringer of life. One of my friends, Mary, suggested that I regard this transition as a trial retirement and I have called it as sabbatical. The children worked hard and had fun. They will remember It has taken me to several towns in the Northeast as I have that day forever and will, hopefully, pass the volunteering gone to the different public libraries to do research. tradition on to their children as my parents did to me. The Even today, I misinterpreted how to get to an appointment Bright Spot™ - Remembering that the more love you give to resulting in having to reschedule it. After having taken a bus, your children, the more you’ll get back a million-fold…and so a train and a bus. But being in a foreign town and no friends will the world!! passing by, it almost harks back to the time of Christ over 2,000 years ago when He faced the same struggles. You can read more about my charitable history on www. So look to the TheLetsTalkMom.com under the “Giving Back” sidebar. Hills for help as we navigate through the course of life and as we see the lights become brighter for us as we eventually approach the end of the tunnel.
A
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asheboro friendly faces
22 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
magazine
ASHEBORO Local Holiday Shopping Guide
the festival of lights Since we highlighted Christmas in last month’s Local Holiday Shopping Guide, we thought we would discuss the other big religious holiday that is celebrated this time of year; Chanukkah. Even though we are not Jewish, we have celebrated Chanukkah to give our kids the experience of another culture. It was a great learning experience for all of us and now when our Jewish friends talk about the nuances of their celebration, we have a more complete understanding.
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hanukkah, the Jewish festival of rededication, also known as the festival of lights, is an eight day celebration beginning on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev. Chanukkah is probably one of the best known Jewish holidays, not because of any great religious significance, but because of its proximity to Christmas. Many non-Jews (and even many assimilated Jews!) think of this holiday as the Jewish Christmas, adopting
m a n y of the Christmas customs, such as elaborate gift-giving and decoration.
The Story The story of Chanukkah begins in the reign of Alexander the Great. Alexander conquered Syria, Egypt and Palestine, but allowed the lands under his control to continue observing their own religions and retain a certain degree of autonomy. Under this relatively benevolent rule, many Jews assimilated much of Hellenistic culture, adopting the language, the customs and the dress of the Greeks, in much the same way that Jews in America today blend into the secular American society. More than a century later, a successor of Alexander, Antiochus IV was in control of the region. He began to oppress the Jews severely, placing a Hellenistic priest in the Temple, massacring Jews, prohibiting the practice of the Jewish religion, and desecrating the Temple by requiring the sacrifice of pigs (a non-kosher animal) on the altar. Two
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groups opposed Antiochus: a basically nationalistic group led by Mattathias the Hasmonean and his son Judah Maccabee, and a religious traditionalist group known as the Chasidim, the forerunners of the Pharisees (no direct connection to the modern movement known as Chasidism). They joined forces in a revolt against both the assimilation of the Hellenistic Jews and oppression by the Seleucid Greek government. The revolution succeeded and the Temple was rededicated. According to tradition as recorded in the Talmud, at the time of the rededication, there was very little oil left that had not been defiled by the Greeks. Oil was needed for the menorah (candelabrum) in the Temple, which was supposed to burn throughout the night every night. There was only enough oil to burn for one day, yet miraculously, it burned for eight days, the time needed to prepare a fresh supply of oil for the menorah. An eight day festival was declared to commemorate this miracle. Note that the holiday commemorates the miracle of the oil, not the military victory: Jews do not glorify war.
Traditions
Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Passover. The only religious observance related to the holiday is the lighting of candles. The candles are arranged in a candelabrum called a menorah that holds eight candles: one for each night, plus a shammus (servant) at a different height. On the first night, one candle is placed at the far right. The shammus candle is lit and three berakhot (blessings) are recited: l’hadlik neir (a general prayer over candles), she-asah nisim (a prayer thanking God for performing miracles for our ancestors at this time), and she-hekhianu (a general prayer thanking God for allowing us to reach this time of year). After
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reciting the blessings, the first candle is then lit using the shammus candle, and the shammus candle is placed in its holder. Candles can be lit any time after dark but before midnight. Each night, another candle is added from right to left (like the Hebrew language). Candles are lit from left to
Local Holiday Shopping Guide
right (because you pay honor to the newer thing first). On the eighth night, all nine candles (the 8 Chanukkah candles and the shammus) are lit. On nights after the first, only the first two blessings are recited; the third blessing, she-hekhianu is only recited on the first night of the holiday. It is traditional to eat fried foods on Chanukkah because of the significance of oil to the holiday. Among Ashkenazic Jews, this usually includes latkes (pronounced “lotkuhs”). Gift-giving is not a traditional part of the holiday, but has been added in places where
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Local Holiday Shopping Guide
Jews have a lot of contact with Christians, as a way of dealing put one in. When the pot is empty, everybody puts one in. with our children’s jealousy of their Christian friends. It is Keep playing until one person has everything. Then redivide extremely unusual for Jews to give Chanukkah gifts to anyone it, because nobody likes a poor winner. other than their own young children. The only traditional gift of the holiday is “gelt,” small amounts of money. Another tradition of the holiday is playing dreidel, a gambling game played with a square top. Most people play for matchsticks, pennies, M&Ms or chocolate coins. The traditional explanation of this game is that during the time of Antiochus’ oppression, those who wanted to study Torah (an illegal activity) would conceal their activity by playing gambling games with a top (a common and legal activity) whenever an official or inspector was within sight. A dreidel is marked with four Hebrew letters: Nun, Gimel, Hei and Shin. These letters stand for the Hebrew phrase “Nes Gadol Hayah Sham”, a great miracle happened there, referring to the miracle of the oil. The letters also stand for the Yiddish words nit (nothing), gantz (all), halb (half) and shtell (put), which are the rules of the game! There are some variations in the way people play the game, but the way I learned it, everyone puts in one coin. A person spins the dreidel. If it lands on Nun, nothing happens; on Gimel (or, as we called it as kids, “gimme!”), you get the whole pot; on Hei, you get half of the pot; and on Shin, you
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HOME FOR By Dave Lowa
A
t the base of a granite outcropping, carved with scenes of men and women, one at the wheel of a schooner, some hauling nets, all being watched over by a celestial being, sits a small 25 year old motorhome. Here and there a streak of rust runs through the fading paint and the curtains in the sun distorted windows need replacing. By the front door, under an orange and brown awning, sits a older couple, smiling at the passersby and sipping lemonade from plastic thermal cups that they got in 1987 with the purchase of 40 gallons of unleaded. They were on their way to Utah for the fall colors. Around their feet dance four Chihuahua’s, one obviously older and more crippled than the others, she is mother
to the other three. The father had taken one look at the snaggletoothed litter he helped bring into the world and jumped ship in Lubbock, Texas some years back. They didn’t miss him; he was a pig at the dinner table. Let me introduce you to Cleta and Charlie Harmon. One of the ever widening segments of society that call the road home. After retiring in 1985 from a small machining company in Medina, Ohio, they bought a class C motorhome, which is the type with a van front end, sold the house, and held a huge yard sale. 560,000 miles, two engines, a transmission and several Chihuahua’s later they are still at it. This 25 foot long camper has been home to this couple for the past 25 years and they would not trade the lifestyle for anything.
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28 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
to Who you Really are
SUNDAY EVENING WAKE-UP CALL
Discover Peace and Happiness as Your Own True Nature.
Merry Christmas
It was July when I ran into them and they had their year pretty well planned out. Cleta has always relocated down through the years thermostatically. Her goal is never to be anywhere where the air conditioning or heaters are needed. The one exception to the rule is Christmas. Christmas is always spent at the KOA campground just down the road from the big Grand Old Oprey Hotel in Nashville. To Cleta’s way of thinking there was little chance of snow, and the Christmas celebration, much of which is free, indoors, and spectacular, was probably the best in the country. Charlie considered arriving at the huge hotel complex in Nashville as being home for the holidays. Thanksgiving was important and normally spent in the vicinity of Charleston, SC., but Christmas was where next year’s conversations and plans were made. They had a big family they could spend the holidays with, but they figured it wasn’t worth the hassle and their family lived in heater or air conditioning territory anyway. Bob Lamont has a different idea. He has always been a bookish, counterculture sort of guy. He is the person you would see walking up and down the curb in front of General Dynamics facilities anywhere in the country holding a sign with a picture of a straw hut with a missile sticking in the roof. He is a vegetarian, likes foreign movies and prides himself on his ability to watch the French ones and not need subtitles. His long term girlfriend, Iris, is a music teacher whose passion is Czechoslovakian romance literature. They buy their groceries at a food co-op where they volunteer to sustain their membership on Friday nights. Bob makes sure that the vegetable tables are fully loaded for the weekend and Iris runs the register and advises in the herbs and oils isle. They are both very much into the environment and sustainable living.
For the past ten years, they have lived in a 129 square foot house. It has everything they need to live a full life. More space is dedicated to their books than to their clothes or cooking space. The walls are not visible, they are bookshelves. Out in the yard, between the wind generators and solar panels is a small green house which produces enough chlorophyll charged grasses, sprouts, greens, and herbs to see them through the dark winters of upstate New York. They love each other, they love their home and they love entertaining in it particularly during the Christmas season. As Bob hangs the 1000 bulb string of LED lights and sets up the colorful blinking Santa’s Sleigh and Reindeer, he is calculating the wattage he is about to use and whether or not his power inverters will handle the extra load. He sends up a silent prayer for a sunny couple of days and a consistent wind. Bob’s sister and her husband, Iris’s brother and his wife and their friend Stanley and his girlfriend are all invited. They will sit and eat a combo veggie and carnivore meal of tofu and goose with all the trimmings, then walk down to the town’s baseball field, now 2 feet deep in snow, for the community Christmas tree lighting. Bill and Jenna-Lyn have a great Christmas planned. The kids are all out of the house now. From the four families they have formed there are now ten grandchildren. The youngest, Billy is 8 months, and the oldest, Sarah, is 10. It used to be no trouble at all to set a separate table up on the sun porch and feed the kids separately, but now they were either too young, too old or too many so the separate table had been joined to the big dining room table and spilled out into the living room. Christmas dinners are made of memories. Traditions from generations long gone surface in the form of pies, gravies, silverware and napkin rings. In this family there are always
extra-large olives, lines of celery filled with cream cheese and lightly salted, horseradish and oyster crackers for the kid to dare one another with, and a choice of red or white wine, the white is always Sauterne. After the festivities, every family always leaves with a little white box filled with a confection simply known as Raisin Squares. No one can remember the origin of this recipe, they thought that one of the great grandmothers used to make it, but that kind of oral history was becoming less available to the
& Happy New Year
volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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family every year. It was two pieces of browned up pie dough filled with some kind of raisin slurry that when cooled formed sort of a raisin pate. Everyone got the meat they wanted as long as it was turkey, white or dark. Two fat birds were to be roasted the slow way, 325 degrees no matter how long it took. Everyone except the youngest could remember the year they all finally sat down to eat at 9:30 pm because the bird wouldn’t finish. That was the year grandmother Burton did the cooking and put the Butterball into the oven frozen as hard as a rock. The stuffing was good that year, so they made a meal of it, collected their Raisin Squares and agreed to meet the next night down at the diner. No one said a word to grandmother, but she was a little miffed when she went to make a turkey sandwich the next day and the bird had disappeared. Not long after the wine decanters have been emptied for the second time, someone would insult one of his or her siblings and cause a minor row at the table. In order to maintain peace, mother always selects that person to start clearing the table for dessert. In the process they are given a stern talking to in the kitchen and the expectation of an apology is made clear. No one can remember how many thinly formulated apologies have been uttered over the years, but everyone could tell you who had done the dishes each year. Dishwashing two years in a row meant that your Sauterne consumption was severely curtailed at the next holiday gathering. LaVern and Rashid knew Christmas was coming. The town had hung little lit Christmas trees from all the light posts in the shopping district and there seemed to be more traffic on Friday nights in the neighborhoods. The impact of Christmas on public housing was limited to the appearance of empty Big Wheel boxes waiting on the curb for the post-holiday trash pickup. Occasionally one would see the remnants of last year’s Big Wheel sitting alongside of the new one’s box. Christmas meant that another year was passing and they had survived. Social Services was getting harder to deal with, but that and LaVern’s disability check was all that they had in the way of income, so they had to make it work or be homeless. The Christmas blessing for them was always survival. On December 23rd they would join the line at the little gymnasium behind the Salvation Army headquarters in town. They would get there early or the line would have wound its way around the building and they would have to stand out in the cold for hours. Once inside they would be handed a cardboard box and moved along a line of tables manned by volunteers. As they moved from table to table they would receive a frozen turkey breast, a couple of cans of lima beans and a couple of cans of yams, a large package of dehydrated potato flakes, a pound of butter from the USDA commodities program, some cheese, a loaf of bread and six cans of tuna fish, most of which had no labels. Lastly, if you had kids under the age of two, you would be given a pack of pampers and ushered out the back door. The whole process took 6 minutes and as each can hit the bottom of the box the volunteer offered his or her Holiday greeting. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, God Bless You. There was no family to bring this feast home to. They had all fallen prey to one degree or another to the drug culture. LaVern’s prayers at night were often filled with gratitude for jails. At least there her living relatives would be warm, fed and 30 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
fairly safe. There was still hope for them if they were in jail. When they got home with their box of Christmas cheer, they put the turkey breast in the freezer, the bread in the refrigerator and the cans in the pantry. It was getting late
and they had to get over to the Baptist Church on Central Ave before 4:30 to beat the line that formed up for the soup kitchen. Dinner there at Christmas time was great last year and if they survived, they knew it would be just as good next year. For them Christmas was a time of increased opportunity. The gift of the season was that for a couple of days it was just a little easier to survive. It was true for every little apartment in the huge public housing complex in which they lived. Thousands of families or couples just like them were simply grateful to be alive. For some, expectations are so high that the anticlimactic nature of the ending of another year buries them in depression. For others the religious fervor is the beginning of another year closer to the divine. There is no denying the new beginning the season represents. Death, decay and hibernation are all around us, but the promise of a new birth is constantly in the back of our minds. The Northern hemisphere goes on break while the climes to the south come back to life. We can always be uplifted to know that it is late spring in Buenos Aires. Still the Holidays are festive no matter where you are or what your situation. The crush and rush for many people can be overwhelming. In big cities it’s is easy to get lost or forgotten in the chaos. For me the squirrels and rabbits and bears have the right idea. They have made a temporary home and have crawled into it to wait the earth’s rebirth. It has long been said that there is no place like home for the holidays. I’m not sure that’s entirely true. An empty house, or a home in which no one can relate to you is probably not the best place to be. Let’s kill off that old myth once and for all. I think a better well-worn saying that we can apply here might be, there’s no place like a place where everyone knows your name for the holidays. I know, I know, it would be impossible to sing that line; it just feels better, more holistic in some strange way. As for me, the one quasi quote from that ancient “Treason Speech” carries me through each holiday season and I am sure it will ring bright and true this year as well. “I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me The Waffle House or give me death! “ Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas
if i could take only one vitamin, what would it be?
I
remember asking my mother, an RN, why we get sick more in the winter than any other time of the year, whether cold air had more germs. She said, “Because our resistance is lower. “ It was a good answer for me at that age. But a more provocative question: “Why is our resistance lower when it’s cold?” Another question that medical researchers have asked is: Why do people diagnosed with cancer in the summertime, live three times longer than other cancer patients? The answer to all three questions seems to be: the level of Vitamin D in our body. Why vitamin D, because our body makes Vitamin D when the skin (without sunscreen) is exposed to sunlight. All we need is a 20-minute exposure to produce 10,000 IU’s of Vitamin D. The more sunshine you get, the higher your levels of Vitamin D. Therefore, we produce less Vitamin D in the winter. In Dr. Michael Hollick’s book, The Vitamin D Solution: A 3-Step Strategy to Cure Our Most Common Health Problems, “Increasing levels of Vitamin D can treat, prevent, and even reverse a remarkable number of daily ailments, from high blood pressure to back pain. It can lessen the symptoms of chronic conditions such as diabetes and arthritis, and actually prevent infectious diseases, including H1N1 and cancer.” Dr. Hollick is a lifelong Vitamin D researcher. He is also a PhD, MD, Professor of Medicine, Physiology and Biophysics, Director of the General Clinical Research Center, Director of the Vitamin D, Skin and Bone Research Laboratory, Director,
health & wellness
article by Doug High Natural Highs Massage and More www.naturalhighs.biz
Biologic Effects of Light Research Center, Boston University Medical Center. If you want to know what really works for chronic conditions for a fraction of the cost of typical remedies, watch Dr. Hollick’s incredibly important 50-minute on Vitamin D, Vitamin D and Prevention of Chronic Diseases, http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=Cq1t9WqOD-0. This month, a quasi governmental agency, The Food and Nutrition Board, seemed to “play-down” the importance of Vitamin D. In response, Dr. John Cannell, another career, Vitamin D researcher and MD, said, “The Food and Nutrition Board has failed millions”, and “.… the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM) Food and Nutrition Board (FNB), yesterday recommended that a three - pound premature infant can take virtually the same amount of vitamin D as a 300 pound pregnant woman.” Could it be that Vitamin D3 is affecting someone’s sales, hence the play-down? Certainly! I’m with Drs. Hollick and Cannell. They have nothing to gain. They’re not in the Vitamin business, and Vitamin D3 is very inexpensive; even so, get one that’s effective, not the cheapest. Dr. Cannell, the founder of the Vitamin D Council, www. vitamindcouncil.org, a rich source of valuable, life-saving information, recommended combining Vitamin D3 with Vitamins A and K2, as well as Magnesium and Zinc. His formulation is sold as D3 Plus by BioTech, www.bio-techpharm.com. Perhaps Vitamin D3 is why I haven’t been sick in eight years, even in the winter. I’ll stick with a winner, right Mom?.
“Perhaps Vitamin D3 is why I haven’t been sick in eight years, even in the winter.”
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& Happy New Year Asheboro_Compass_N10_3H.indd 2
11/2/10 8:0231 PM volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
the cellar
thomas jefferson was here by dave johnson
‘T
is the Season for sparkling white wines. With all the holiday parties and special events we attend this time of year, having a few bottles of bubbly on hand is never a bad idea. It makes for a great last minute gift for a friend or the host of the party you received a last minute invite to. Best of all, sparkling white wine makes great mimosas and what better way to kick off the Christmas morning festivities than toasting to all that we have to be thankful for. Along with orange juice, sparkling white wine goes great with pomegranate and blueberry juice, too as I have just discovered. Recently, a really delicious (and value-priced!) sparkler crossed my path and if I were you, I would lay my hands on a few bottles (or cases), ASAP, for all your holiday celebrations. I am not a big fan of most sparkling white wines, but I loved the taste of this one. The Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux 2007 is under $15 and drinks like a sparkler twice the price. Again, another testimony to the fact that price has very little to do with the taste of wine. In fact, I read somewhere that this gem compares to a top-quality, nonvintage Champagne at three times the price. Since I have a rule of not spending more than $20 on a bottle of wine, I wouldn’t know firsthand, but I will take their word for it. In my humble opinion, it is the best value sparkling wine you’ll find. For the wine snobs reading this article, the winemaker says, this sparkling white wine is dry, toasty, smooth and clean. Saint-Hilaire truly captivates with an attractive yeasty aroma and luscious creamy texture. The palate is light and crisp with citrus and apple flavors and the body is just hefty enough. I don’t know about all that but, perhaps, the citrus flavor may be one of the reasons this sparkling white wine makes an especially delicious mimosa...I had a few while putting it through its paces. Along with the great taste, Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux comes with a great story. More than a century before champagne, the Benedictine Monks of the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire in 32 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
the Southern foothills of Limoux created France’s Very First Sparkling Wine. Today, over four and a half centuries later, Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux is made in the very same foothills of Southern France. By 1794 Blanquette de Limoux was well known and appreciated throughout France. At about that time it was discovered by Thomas Jefferson. The Third American President was an expert on French wines and Blanquette de Limoux was an integral part of his wine cellar. So, what do the pros say about this sparkling white wine? From The Wine Enthusiast: “A pretty and remarkable drinkable sparkler with soft green apple, tangerine oil and faint yellow floral notes accented with hints of lavender. There’s medium carbonation and weight in the mouth and pear and apple flavors abound with suggestions of honeydew in the finish.” 89 points, The Wine Enthusiast, November 2009. And, says Robert Parker, it’s “fresh, lively, crisp and dry.” In short, Saint-Hilaire rocks! If MTV Cribs ever does a show on my house, I will open my refrigerator to show it is filled with this modest yet delicious vintage and I will leave the Cristal to the Rappers and Rock Stars. Afterall, if it’s good enough for Thomas Jefferson, then by gosh, it’s good enough for me. Don’t take my word for it though. Pick up your own bottle of Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux from our friends at Lumina Wine and Beer for only $13.99 and be sure to let them know that Asheboro Magazine sent you.
Abbey of St Hilaire near Limoux
Merry Christmas
Strawberry Peach Stuffed French Toast By Brett Moore Ingredients: 1 Large Ripe Peach, peeled and pit removed 1 Pint Strawberries, stem removed and diced small 4 Ounces Cream Cheese, soft 1 Tablespoon Sugar 1 Tablespoon Grand Marnier (Optional) 1 Loaf of Brioche, Challah, or White Bread, unsliced 3 Large Eggs 1 1/4 Cups Milk 1 Tablespoon Sugar 1 Teaspoon Vanilla 1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon Butter and Vegetable Oil for frying Maple Syrup
We’re READY and ABLE when your body isn’t. IF YOU’RE HURTING WHEN YOU MOVE A CERTAIN JOINT OR MUSCLE, the worldclass team of physicians at the Human Motion Institute at Randolph Hospital can determine the exact cause of your condition and provide you the most modern treatments available. With proven success in advanced non-surgical therapies, and surgical procedures performed by highly-trained orthopedists who specialize in
Preparation:
FRACTURE CARE
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
JOINT CARE
Filling: Cut one half of the peach into 1/4 inch slices and set aside for topping later. Dice the other half of the peach into small cubes (about 1/4”). Mash together with a fork or mixer the diced peach and strawberries, 1 Tbl sugar, cream cheese, and the Grand Marnier (if you are using it).
REHABILITATION
high quality, focused care.
SPINE CARE
Our process also includes
Cut the bread into 1 inch slices. Using a serrated knife, cut a pocket in the side of each slice of bread. Try to make the pocket as deep as possible without cutting through the other side. Place 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture into each pocket.
SPORTS MEDICINE
hip and knee reconstruction, we promise the very best in
comprehensive rehabilitation programs for surgery patients
to assure a steady and thorough recovery. No matter your injury, the Human Motion Institute will help you return to normal activity as quickly and safely as possible.
Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon and 1 Tbl sugar. Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place two or three slices of bread in the batter and let soak for 5 seconds. Flip over and soak again for 5 seconds. Remove the bread from the batter and place on a plate. Let the bread stand for 1 minute so the batter can soak in. Add a tablespoon of butter and a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Place the soaked bread into the hot pan. When you have all the slices in the pan, start soaking the next three pieces as described before. Cook each side until a light golden brown. Place on a cookie sheet or wire rack. When all the pieces have been fried, place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and top each serving with sliced peaches.
DR. MEGAN SWANSON, our new joint fellowshiptrained surgeon, joins our skilled team of local orthopedists: Drs. Ranbir Singh, Lance Sisco, Gurmukh Walha and Jeffrey Yaste.
Serve with maple syrup.
SPORTS MEDICINE YOU CAN TRUST.
336-629-8818 randolphhospital.org
& Happy New Year
volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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community character
J
anet Harllee is an internationallyknown storyteller, character actress, speaker, and songwriter. She has written and produced numerous Christian dramatic productions that combine story, humor and song to make people laugh and encourage them to hang on to their faith. Janet grew up in Asheboro. Throughout her school years, she always loved acting and being involved in drama. It was a dream of hers to perform and sing. She spent a summer at the Burnsville Parkway Playhouse, a small summer theater. She performed in community theaters, Theater in the Round and dinner theaters. When she went away to school at Gardner-Webb University, she majored in theater and English. After Janet met and married Robert, her husband, they moved to High Point for 14 years, before relocating to Greensboro. She saw an advertisement in the local paper for a storytelling group and decided to attend because she had heard how much fun it was. She got bit by the bug her very first meeting. When she attended the second meeting, she had a story written of her own to tell. Janet started out writing and re-writing old folk tales, and then branched out to write stories of her own, based on personal and family experiences. Some are embellished, and some are not. Her Dad was diagnosed with COPD and in 2000 he was be-
janet harllee
by sherry johnson
coming more and more ill. Janet felt a “nudge” that told her it was time to move back to Asheboro and be closer to her family. She started making calls regarding employment, and was able to find a position with an assisted living facility. She was able to spend two years with her Dad before he passed away. She became very involved in the drama ministry at Cross Road Baptist Church. She has coordinated and written skits and shows for them through the years. Drama is a powerful tool to get the message out. It’s a non-threatening and entertaining way to spread the word. She wrote a skit creating characters for herself and the Pastor’s wife, Renea Henderson to perform. Mitsy Lou & Ditsy Lou Puppernickel were born. Janet credits the Lord with the names, as they just came to her one day. Mitsy Lou has since evolved into her own character, and now travels around Randolph County and beyond, performing for church groups, businesses, and women’s organizations. Mitsy Lou Puppernickel is a tacky southern hairdresser who thinks she’s on the cutting edge of fashion. You may not agree with her style - but there’s no arguing that her heart-warming humor and powerful messages about staying the course will have you laughing, remembering what you have to hold on to, and feeling good long after the show is over. Mitsy Lou’s first solo show, A Closer Stumble with Thee, was
“The Lord has given me songs – sometimes they come so fast I have to capture them quickly before they are gone”
34 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
quite a hit. She has performed it for women’s groups, churches and conference retreats. She can specially design a program to fit the needs of the group. This program will always be her favorite, because it was her first and that makes it special. “The Lord has given me songs – sometimes they come so fast I have to capture them quickly before they are gone,” states Janet. Janet received a call from Steve Rumbley, who wanted her to join his staff at Cross Road Retirement Community. She made the move, and became their Admissions and Marketing Director. She is able to spend time with her Mom, who is 96, and currently resides at the facility. She attributes her love of storytelling to her mother, who was her inspiration. Her Mom taught Sunday school at church for 54 years. Janet says she takes after her Mom with her storytelling, but puts her own
& Happy New Year
spin on it. Janet is currently working on several projects; a book, Mitsy Lou’s Devotions: A Makeover with the Maker; a manual of plays and skits she has written to offer other churches who are interested in starting a drama ministry, her songs are being compiled onto a CD; and several stories she has written over the years for children ages 7 to 11 are being edited and cover art is being considered for a book as well. Janet’s fondest wish is that “The Lord will work through me and make a difference in someone’s life. We need to hang on to our faith, and be steadfast in this ever changing world.”
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daily devotion
Sponge Nose Smarty Fins by rev. peter panagore
S
cientific American titled it, ”Sponge-Nose Smarty Pants”. A close-up photo showed a bottle-nosed dolphin wearing a sea sponge on her nose. Marine biologists working in Shark Bay saw that certain females wore sponges to protect their tender snouts when they were rooting for food on the sea floor. Males did not wear sponges ever, and neither did every female. The question was – was this behavior instinct or was it learned? Using DNA from 13 "spongers" and 172 "non-spongers", scientists determined that all the spongers had a common ancestor, but they couldn't find a gene pattern that would cause the behavior. There was no "wear a sponge on your nose" gene. Science’s conclusion? Mothers taught it to daughters. It was learned The role of a mother, or a father, is to protect a child -- sponges on noses works for dolphins. We humans don't put sponges on the noses of our kids to protect them from harm, but we do make them wear bike helmets, and we help them, best as we are able, to avoid injury. The last thing we ever want to do is inflict pain in our child's life, and yet sometimes it happens. In divorce, children are hurt. It may be best that the parents separate, but the pain to a child is real and lasting. Let's pray for the kids who can't be kept from emotional injury, and that includes all of us. Let's Pray: Dear God of soft places, give comfort to Your children, especially children of divorce. Guide them through this painful time, let them know they are loved, and give them tools to cope. Amen. A Simple Thought: Remind kids that they are loved.
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facebook.com/asheboromagazine 36 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
community news ORIGINAL COMIC BOOK ART TO BE AUCTIONED FOR CHARITY
O
The Comic Conspiracy teams with Make-A-Wish Foundation® for HeroWish
n Friday December 17th North Carolina’s oldest comic book shop will be auctioning off pieces of original comic art, statues and signed memorabilia to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Central & Western North Carolina. The auction will take place at Circa Gallery, located at 150 Sunset Ave. in Asheboro, N.C. beginning at 6:00 p.m. The artwork and memorabilia will be on display at the gallery from December 14th until the end of the auction. Items up for grabs include pieces donated by industry greats such as Stan Lee, Billy Tucci, Billy Tan, Bart Sears, Joe Staton, Neil Vokes, Jim Valentino, Jamal Igle, Al Bigley, Koi Turnbull and many more. “I was very pleased at the response we got from the comic book industry.” said Jeff Lamb, owner of The Comic Conspiracy. “Once we had a couple of confirmed donations the whole thing just snowballed.” Personnel at The Comic Conspiracy, with additional help from long time shop customers and friends, began contacting artists, writers and editors at DC Comics, Marvel Comics and many independent publishers and requested donations for the HeroWish charity auction. “Once the artists realized that HeroWish was the real deal and that 100% of the proceeds from the auction were going to Make-A-Wish Foundation®, we were able to add quite a few prestigious names to our confirmed donation list.” said Ellis Aldridge, a business partner at the comic shop. After securing a venue for the auction, the necessary papers were submitted to Make-A-Wish Foundation® and Don Timmons came on board as the representative for the Central and Western N.C. Chapter of the organization. The MakeA-Wish Foundation® is the nation’s largest wish-granting organization. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation’s mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish experience has on children, families, donors, sponsors and entire communities. From their humble beginnings with one boy’s wish to be a police officer, they’ve evolved into an organization that grants a child’s wish in the U.S. every 40 minutes. Circa Gallery owners Mandy Sloan and Amy Keith Barney have donated use of their gallery for displaying the artwork and holding the live auction. The shop also recruited the services of veteran auctioneer Ray Parks of Ray Parks Auctions who also willingly agreed to donate his time to HeroWish. “We’re a small shop in a small town and we’re having to run this entire event on a zero budget.” said business partner Benny Littreal. “We’re completely dependent upon people willing to donate their time and energy to this project.” Items to be auctioned for HeroWish will also be available for viewing on The Comic Conspiracy website beginning no later than December 1, 2010. In addition to being a live auction, absentee bidders will be able to phone in bids from all over the world. Any items which are unsold at the live auction will be listed in an online auction at a later date. Items remaining unsold will be returned to the artists and writers that donated them. Anyone wishing to bid either in person or by telephone must register either online, by telephone or in person at the store. Non-auction contributions will also be gratefully accepted.
& Happy New Year
CHRISTIAN MUSICIANS DONATE TIME & TALENT TO FEED THE HUNGRY
O
Christian Rock Christmas IV Rocks the Sunset Theater
n Saturday evening December 18th The Comic Conspiracy, in association with Christians United Outreach Center and AWE Ministries, will present Christian Rock Christmas IV at the Sunset Theatre in downtown Asheboro. Beginning at 7:00 pm three regional Christian rock bands, The Five Man Jesus Band, HeRose and Sword, will take the stage with original material and Christmas renditions for the admission price of at least one can of food. The Five Man Jesus Band hailing from Thomasville, NC will be headlining this year’s concert. Their gritty southern rock style and precise vocal harmonies have made them one of the most popular Christian rock bands in the area for many years. HeRose debuts an all new line-up following a year long hiatus. The band features inspiring Christian lyrics and the incredible lead vocals of songwriter Mark Isom. Sword is a three piece Asheboro band lead by well known veteran musician Tim Sink. The band utilizes electronic sequencing and old school playing technique to deliver a style that they call “progressive southern gospel rock”. Sword will be featuring music from the band’s newly released second CD, Seeds of Truth which will be available at the show. “All we ask is that if at all possible please donate more than one can of food.” said Jerry Hill, executive director of CUOC. “We go through canned and non-perishable food items at the rate of over 3,000 pounds each day and use over 3,000 plastic bags a day.” Coinciding with the concert, the Comic Conspiracy is holding a raffle for a full color, signed comic art print. From now until closing on Saturday December 11, a raffle ticket will be given for each can of food donated at their store located at 108 North St. in downtown Asheboro. In addition to the art print raffle, a special prize is being offered by Comic Conspiracy owner Jeff Lamb, a retired professional musician. A brand new Epiphone Thunderbird bass guitar from his private collection will be given to the Church youth group with the highest attendance at the concert. Pastor Rick Davis of First Baptist Church in Asheboro and co-founder of the HeartSpace and Alternative Worship Experience ministries, has been involved behind the scenes with Christian Rock Christmas from the very beginning. HeartSpace volunteers have done everything from work the door, collect and transfer food donations, market the event, design logos and promotional material and even work with the band road crews. AWE is a Sunday evening worship service located in the old Salvation Army building beside Monroe’s Music and Jewelry on Sunset Ave. This ministry provides service to believers as well as those who are unsure of their beliefs and who have questions concerning spirituality and Jesus Christ and anyone with desire for community. Because of scheduling conflicts there was no Christian Rock Christmas concert in 2009, but this year’s concert looks to be the best yet. For the price of a can of green beans, Christian rock music fan’s will get to see three proquality live bands perform almost three hours of music while at the same time helping the Randolph community’s less fortunate. volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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zoo zeal
Bali Mynah Bird
Zoo’s Forest Aviary Warms Winter’s Chill Story & photos by Tom Gillespie, NC Zoo Staff
E
ven in the grip of winter, when the area’s songbirds are gone and summer’s warmth has turned to winter’s freeze, the R.J. Reynolds Forest Aviary exhibit at the North Carolina Zoo averages a warm mid70s. With more than 2,500 specimens representing almost 600 species, the Forest Aviary is believed to house the largest tropical plant collection under one roof in North Carolina. The award-winning exhibit officially opened Aug. 26, 1982, and immediately became a visitor favorite. Inside, tropical plants, exotic birds and unique displays recreate the wonders of tropical forests from around the world. In addition to the flora and fauna, educational panels and displays help visitors understand the fragile nature of these forest ecosystems, particularly how rainforests are being quickly 38 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
destroyed by human encroachment. Always one of the zoo’s most popular attractions, the Forest Aviary gained national attention in the 90s when renowned zoo exhibit designer John Coe named it one of the 10 best zoo natural-habitat exhibits in America in an article published in USA Today. Since an extensive 18-month, $850,000 renovation was completed in May 2000, even more exotic plants and animals have been added, including the green wood hoopoe and the yellow-rumped cacique. Forest Aviary visitors may also recognize many old favorites such as the scarlet ibis, Victoria crowned pigeon and Chilean flamingo. Generally, the best time to view the birds is at their 9:30 a.m. feeding. After the renovation, the zoo’s horticulture staff also added
Merry Christmas
S
ince its Forest Aviary exhibit opened in 1982, the N.C. Zoo has been recognized for some of the most significant bird hatchings among American zoos. One such event is the first American hatching of a golden white-eye, a bright yellow and green species that is native to the Marianas Islands in the western Pacific. The species is now classified as critically endangered in the wild on their native island, Saipan, because of the introduction of the brown tree snake. A non-native species, the snake is thought to have reached the island by cargo ship or plane. To stop this decimation, proactive measures have included the establishment of captive-breeding programs and the introduction of the species to snake-free islands on their archipelago. Currently in the United States, there are 35 golden white-eyes—four of which are at the N.C. Zoo. Zoo visitors can daily see two of the four in the Forest Aviary exhibit. a significant number of species to better represent the topical rain forest theme. Because of their natural camouflaging, many of the birds in the Forest Aviary are not easily seen at first. According to Aviary and educational staff members, visitors who want to fully appreciate the exhibit need to sit for a while and listen and look, not just quickly walk through. But just as it is in a rain forest, if visitors give the birds time, they will come out. One of the N.C. Zoo’s most important objectives is to maintain viable populations of exotic and endangered birds for their own collections as well as for other zoos and bird facilities around the country. To this end, the Zoo has become a national leader in the breeding of rare and endangered birds, most of which will be exhibited in the Forest Aviary at some time. One such species that visitors can see at the Forest Aviary is the highly endangered Bali mynah. By some accounts, there are less than 15 left in the wild. Like so many other endangered bird species, the mynah population in the wild is being dramatically impacted by habitat destruction due to timber harvest, illegal bird trade, poaching and nest-site com-
& Happy New Year
petition from other bird species. Conservation officials in their native Bali have even resorted to using armed guards to protect nesting areas. The Aviary’s Bali mynahs are taken off exhibit between September and March due to their interference with the breeding activities of other Aviary species. Unfortunately, the safety of the plants and animals inside the Aviary’s miniature rain forest is a far cry from the uncertainty of today’s indigenous rain forests worldwide, where cattle ranching, settlement, logging, large mining operations and hydro electric dams daily threaten their existence. Rain forests are the source of some of our most widely used products and the wintering ground for many of our favorite migratory birds. Yet tropical rain forests are being decimated, and species are being lost before we are even able to discover them. It’s an exhibit where visitors can go inside, close their eyes and pretend they’re on a tropical island, engrossed in the wonderful bio-diversity that’s there. Not a bad experience, especially on a cold winter day when summer’s warmth is a faint memory. volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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restaurant review
bistro 42 article by Sherry Johnson photos by Lauren Johnson
– Andrew went with a regular pizza, light sauce with bacon for his topping. Lauren chose a white pizza (no sauce and four cheese base consisting of provolone, ricotta, mozzarella and Romano), then added the Meat Lovers toppings: pepperoni, Italian sausage, meatball & ham. Dave and I chose istro 42 relocated from the specialty menu. I picked my to its new space on E favorite, the Margarita, a wonderful Dixie Drive near Century version of a white pizza, with Filetto Di Link the first weekend in Pomodoro, fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, November. Luke put a ton of time and diced roma tomatoes. Dave is the and effort into remaking the building most adventurous of us all, he ordered the into a very cool space, and the result is a Rustica; a three cheese, artichoke hearts, wonderful place to meet friends for a quick tomato, eggplant, caramelized onion, fresh drink after work, or take the family out for a basil and no sauce pizza. These were all great dinner. He has plans for the summer individual pizzas so we wouldn’t have to share, to expand to the side and offer shaded patio however, we ordered a Crostada for the table, seating, something that Asheboro needs more of. which consisted of three cheeses, Italian sausage, Bistro’s menu is still very similar to their fresh basil, filetto di pomodoro & garlic. previous location, with one notable exception. If you haven’t tried their pizza yet, you are in for a Jason Raynor, a native New Yorker, has brought a treat. Raynor takes the dough, shapes it with his fingers little something extra to the table – Pizza! Not just any first, and then tosses it and stretches it to get a nice round pizza, but NY Style, slice folding, do NOT eat this with a shape. I worked for a deli/pizza place in Portland, Maine fork and knife ‘ZA!! for several years and although I could throw a pie with When we heard that they were adding pizza, we had the best of them, they never came out quite round … which to check it out – Pizza being one of the four most important is okay, until you try to fit them into a pizza box. Fortunately, food groups. Being from New England, it’s challenging to find Raynor appears to be an expert at tossing pies, and his were all foods that remind us of home. When I worked for Cole Haan Footwear and Accessories, I spent a year living in Manhattan uniformly round. Once shaped, he builds the pies, individually and with much with my friend, Pat, and my favorite meal was two slices from care and attention to detail. Some require going into the oven to the Greek place at 18th Street & 1st Avenue and a “pop”. Deb and Marcella greeted us when we walked in and ushered us to the dining room side of the restaurant. Marcella (Marci) came over and took our drink order. While that was being filled, she read us the nightly specials. Although we were definitely there for the pizza, it never hurts to hear what else is on the menu. Of course, that also opens you up to temptation – since they all sounded so good! We did break down and order the roasted oysters on the half shell, served with chunks of mozzarella cheese, and drizzled with balsamic vinegar as an appetizer. They were absolutely delicious! For the traditionalist, they have regular pizza with your choice of toppings. My kids are not adventurous when it comes to their pizza, so this was good for them. If you are looking for something unique and tasty, take a walk down the specialty pizza menu. We got down to the serious business of ordering our pizzas, and if you’ve ever eaten with my family you would know, none of us likes the same thing – a more diverse group of diners you would be hard pressed to find. So the kids ordered their pizzas
B
40 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
melt the slices of cheese on the top before adding the toppings, while others are crafted and put into the oven all at once. This is pure art, people. No pans are used in the cooking process; rather the pizza is assembled on a pizza peel and then placed directly on the oven deck to cook. We arrived before the dinner crowd really gets going at 6:00p, so while there were a few people at the bar, we were the only patrons on the restaurant side. This made it easy to go over and chat with Raynor while he was making the pizzas. That didn’t last long, and both sides filled up very quickly for a Tuesday evening. Marci delivered the pizzas to the table, and my mouth started watering. The aromas of tangy tomato sauce, melted cheese and spices combined to tease the palette. The pizza epitomized NY Style ‘Za – it presented a puffy, bread-like outer crust which quickly tapered down to a very thin, crisp middle. The crust is lightly browned and somewhat charred in appearance. This is a pizza that would stand up to any corner pizza shop in New York! You do not eat this pizza with a knife and fork unless you wish to insult the chef! Picking up a slice, I folded it in half and took my first bite. Flavor explosion! The crust had just the right consistency - not soft and soggy but a satisfying “cracker crunch”. Raynor was not exaggerating when he said he knew pizza! This was a slice of home and we dug in with a vengeance. I sampled one of each of the pies we had ordered, and while they were all good – my favorites were the Crostada and the Margarita. Dave concurred with my choice of the Crostada, but his second choice was the Meat Lovers. Although we made quite a dent in the slices on the table, we couldn’t do a restaurant review without trying at least one dessert. We ordered one flourless chocolate torte for the table, with four spoons. When it arrived, it was topped with vanilla ice
& Happy New Year
cream, a dollop of whipped cream and drizzled fudge sauce over the whole. The plate was lightly dusted with powdered sugar. The presentation was lovely and the taste – out of this world. In fact, it quickly disappeared and we had to order a second one. If you haven’t had the opportunity to stop in and experience Bistro 42’s new location, please stop by. The bar offers several choices for seating – high-top bar tables for four, or individual seats at the expanded bar. You can order beer on tap, or a nice glass of wine or mixed drink. The dining room has been expanded and includes more tables. Although reservations are recommended, with all the expanded room you can still drop by on a whim and most likely find a place to relax and eat. You can eat your pizza there or take-out, but you will not be sorry. It’s well worth the trip!
volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
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business buzz
joseph sand pottery article by Sherry Johnson photos by Dave Johnson
I
f you went to the Fall Festival in Asheboro this year, you may remember seeing pots as large as a man on the corner of Sunset and South Fayetteville Street. They are wonderfully crafted and beautiful to look at. We had a chance to meet Joseph Sand and his wife, Amanda, at the festival and chat with them. Joseph was born and raised in Austin, Minnesota. He graduated from Austin High School in 2001, and attended the University of Minnesota in Duluth. Joseph spent a portion of his junior year in Europe, studying art in Cortona, Italy. During his senior year, he attended a wedding in Duluth, and that’s where he met his future wife, Amanda. Joseph was the recipient of a Katherine E. Sullivan Scholarship through the University of Minnesota. This award allowed him to continue his studies by providing funding for a fifth-year of college education abroad. Joseph used his scholarship money to attend the University of Wolverhampton in Wolverhampton, England. It was during his time in England that Joseph decided to become a potter. After visiting and spending time with many fulltime potters, Joseph knew that this was the life for him. In 2006, Joseph graduated with honors and received a Bachelor of Fine
The Kiln
42 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
Merry Christmas
Arts degree in General Studio Art, with an emphasis on ceramics. Joseph and Amanda moved to North Carolina, where he completed a three and a half year apprenticeship under master potter Mark Hewitt. Mark was a great mentor, and Joseph will always be indebted to Mark and Carol Hewitt for teaching him the finer points of being not only a professional potter, but also showing him a great example of how to balance work and family life. In the summer of 2009, Joseph and Amanda purchased a home and property to set up a studio and kiln near Randleman. He built the kiln by hand to accommodate the larger pots that he is known for. His pottery combines the styles of traditional, Southern alkaline glaze ware and East Asian designs. Using a wood-fired kiln, both salt- and ash-glazed wares are produced. Joseph was a recipient of the Ella Fountain Pratt Emerging Artist Award through the Durham Arts Council, which provided funding towards the construction of the kiln. He also held a Buy a Brick drive to complete the construction. They fire the kiln and host sales three times a year in April, August & November/December. It takes him approximately two and a half months to throw enough pots, bowls and beautiful vases to fill the kiln for firing. I had the pleasure of attending his recent Holiday Kiln Opening and his talent is unmistakable. He makes everything from Christmas ornaments, teapots and wonderful bowls, to pots that are taller than I am, which can be kept outdoors or brought in for a stunning visual display. If you didn’t have the time to come out and view his work at the Kiln Opening, you can set up an appointment to visit the pottery. For more information, visit www.jsspottery.com or look for him on Facebook, Joseph Sand Pottery. There is an entire gallery of pictures taken at Joseph Sand’s Kiln Opening on our website at asheboromagazine.com.
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& Happy New Year
515 D West Salisbury St. • Asheboro
summitlaserandcosmeticcenter.com volume1 issue 5 asheboromagazine.com
43
Community Events December & January
December 16th – Thrifty Thursday Movies at the Sunset to Hank Williams”. Enjoy vintage classic country music by Theatre, Asheboro, NC, 7:30-9:30 p. A Christmas Carol, The Malpass Brothers. Tickets are $16 in advance, $18 day 2009 animated version of this holiday classic, starring Jim of show. Call 336-622-3844 for more information. Carrey. Tickets $5. January 21st – Annual Meeting, Asheboro/Randolph ChamDecember 16th – Lane Ragsdale Christmas Concert, Ran- ber of Commerce, Pinewood Country Club, 6:30-9:30p. The dolph County Public Library, Asheboro, 7-8p. Hosted by 85th Annual Meeting Dinner & Awards Ceremony of the the Friends of the Library, Asheboro’s own Lane Ragsdale Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are availpresents his annual holiday cabaret show. Contact Arlene able for $65 per person. The event will feature presentations Smith at 336-318-6802 for more information. of the 2010 ATHENA Award, 2010 Citizen of the Year, 2010 Business of the Year, 2010 Industry of the Year and 2010 December 18th - Santa’s Workshop, Sunset Theatre Annex, Volunteer of the Year. The gavel will be passed from 2010 9a. At Santa’s Workshop the kids will create one craft project, Chamber Chairman of the Board, Carla Freemyer to 2011 take a picture with Santa, see a movie and enjoy a snack. Sign Chairman, James Gouty. Retiring Board of Directors will also up to participate at the Cultural & Recreation Services Office. be recognized for their service and support. Reservations will Admission - $10 per child. be taken first come, first served. Get your tickets today at the Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce, 317 East Dixie December 21st - City of Asheboro Blood Drive, Public Works Drive, Asheboro, call (336) 626-2626 or email chamber@ Conference Room (1312 N. Fayetteville Street), 1–5:30p. asheboro.com for more information. Seating is limited. This holiday season give the most precious gift of all – the gift of life! December 27-29th – Bank of the Carolinas JV Basketball Tournament, 10a-10p. The largest JV basketball invitational tournament in the United States with 62 teams from the Carolinas. For more information, contact David Cross at 336625-9990. December 20th – Bantam Rooster Food Drive, Sunset Theatre, Asheboro, 7-8:30p. Admission is 2 cans of food per person to benefit the Christian United Outreach Center. Doors open at 6:30p. January 1st – The Malpass Brothers, Liberty Showcase, 101 S Fayetteville Street, Liberty, 7-9p. Don’t miss “A Tribute
44 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
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going green
part of the solution by barbara adams
I
n a recent study of 50 cities nationwide, it was shown that there are more homeless than there are available shelters, and in rural areas, which comprise 9% of the homeless, the shelters are generally non-existent. Unfortunately, the number of foreclosures across the country today is compounding the problem. In Massachusetts, a housing subsidy is expected to disappear because the stimulus funds are expected to be cut in January. There are also a large number of veterans without a place to live. It is impossible to determine the number of homeless with 100% accuracy, because countless numbers are never included in research. They are in locations where the researchers cannot take a head count, such as those living in makeshift housing, on the streets, or in tents, boxes, under bridges, in box cars, or even caves. Due to the increasingly serious problem of the homeless worldwide, alternatives are being sought to supply affordable housing, while, in this “going green” era, keeping in mind the possibility of ecological and economic solutions. The company EcoFaeBrick, started by students at the Prasetiya Mulya Business School of Indonesia, seems to have an innovative answer. Originally intending to solve farms’ excessive waste problems, the company has developed a brick made of cow dung instead of clay, which could be used to build affordable housing. Cow dung is the waste produced when they consume plants. 46 ASHEBORO Magazine December 2010
As a result, EcoFaeBrick won the 2009 Global Social Venture $25,000 competition at the University of California. They were one of 123 participating universities. The Global Social Venture Competition is the largest and longest-running social business plan competition providing mentoring, exposure, and prizes for winners in the world. By hiring locals, EcoFaeBrick has also greatly improved the economic condition of the Indonesian people. EcoFaeBrick plans to expand into many farm areas in both Indonesia and third world countries. The 75% cow dung brick is 20% stronger, and yet 20% lighter than the usual clay brick. Being a renewable resource, its manufacture reduces carbon emissions; solves a hygiene problem due to health risks from large amounts of cow dung; while the biogas used in the process saves on firewood (a non-renewable resource), and reduces production costs. The brick has no odor, and is also environmentally sound, as it decreases a farm’s cattle waste; eliminates the necessity of excavating farms for clay; and returns the use of more agricultural land for farming, the purpose for which it was intended. The best part of using cow dung to make bricks is the very low expense. There is a never ending supply of the base material and most farmers would gladly give it away. It would be relatively easy to create a program similar to or in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity that puts the homeless to work excavating the waste and transforming it into bricks. Once the bricks are made, they could be used to build housing with the majority of the expense covered by sweat equity. When you remove profit out of the equation, there is a solution for every problem in the world. Sometimes it just requires a little outside-the-box thinking and a can-do attitude. In this case, EcoFaeBrick has discovered a solution to a monumental problem while also having a positive impact on our eco system. This may not be the solution to homelessness, but it is certainly a viable way to reduce the cost of housing for those in need.
Merry Christmas
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