2019-06-BRE

June 2019

Use one of these convenient methods to be eligible to win an HDTV!

Online

Mail

ector proxy ir d r u o y n r u t Re 5 p.m.

by June 19 at 20 ANNU REPORT 18 MEMBER FOCUAL SED. YOUR

Check your director election kit sent in May for details

COOPERATIVE

ADVANTAGE.

Look inside for the annual report:

Electric Vehicle Showcase

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge-0619 WRAP.indd 1

2-5 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, at Blowing Rock Tanger Outlets. See popular EV models and chat with owners. Live music from 4-7 p.m. will energize you, too!

5/13/19 12:28 PM

VOTING for your directors is important and easy Electing local directors who guide Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation is an important way you can be involved as a member. It’s also one of the many advantages of being served by a cooperative.

In May, you should have received a director election kit by email or mail. It includes voting instructions, candidate biographical information and your proxy.

You can cast your vote online or by mail, whichever is more convenient. The deadline for online voting or delivery is June 19. Or, you may vote if you attend the Annual Meeting, the afternoon of Thursday, June 27.

Convenient ways for you to vote in the 2019 Board of Directors Election:

Online

Mail

Note: Your proxy cannot be accepted by a Blue Ridge employee or submitted at any of our offices.

You’ll be eligible to win an HDTV when you vote online or by mail!

Annual Meeting Schedule Thursday, June 27, 2019 3:30 p.m. ............................. Registration

4 p.m. .................................. Business Session, followed by

Director Election Results Blue Ridge Energy Corporate Office meeting room in Lenoir

Key board and staff members will deliver business reports. Results from the director election will then be announced.

June 2019

Gear up and

Hit the

Trail Page 12

Published by

NC co-ops look to a bright future page 6

Know when to pick that veggie page 32

PERIODICAL

Your Blue Ridge Energy Annual Report inside—see center pages June covers.indd 2

5/13/19 3:08 PM

Get ready to jump into summer fun at

LAKE GASTON!

F

JUNE 21 & 22

Lizard Creek Jam & BBQ Battle

Concert by Island Time Band, food truck rodeo, arts & crafts, tethered hot air balloon rides, BBQ Cook-Off & more UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE 22

Big Air Fair Watersports Show

J U LY 6

Fireworks on the Lake

AUGUST 10

15th Annual Crossing of Lake Gaston

252-586-5711

LakeGastonChamber.com LakeGaston CC06-wk.indd Jump 2 in ad.indd 1

5/5/19 5/10/19 10:55 3:12 AM PM

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9 10:55 AM

Volume 51, No. 6

16

12

Favorites 4 Viewpoints 6 More Power 25 Energy Sense 30 I Remember 32 Carolina Gardens 35 Carolina Compass 38 Marketplace 39 Classifieds 40 Carolina Kitchen 42 Where is This?

42 Featured Photo

28

12 16 28 37

High Country Cycling

Western NC offers epic options, both on- and off-road.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Edenton celebrates the 80th anniversary of historic Hicks Field.

Mighty Fine Watermelons What makes Bogue Sound melons so sweet?

Community Among the Pines A camping club served by Haywood EMC has brought families together for decades.

On the Cover Mountain biker Patrick O’Neal takes a downhill turn on the Witches Backbone trail in Beech Mountain’s Emerald Outback trail park. Learn about this and more cycling hot spots starting on page 12. Photo by Perfecta Visuals.

CALL FOR VOTES:

$1

Carolina’s Finest What’s the best of the best in North Carolina? Tell us for a chance to win a $100 gift card! See page 10 for details.

June 2019 | 3

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Viewpoints

Meeting Member Needs With Low-Carbon Power

By Paul G. Spruill

This spring, the U.S. electric utility industry hit an interesting milestone.

For the first time ever, renewable generation sources — largely hydropower, wind, solar and geothermal — generated more electricity than coal-fired power plants over the period of a month, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Although some seasonal factors contributed — hydro generation tends to peak in the spring, and some coal plants are traditionally down for maintenance during the spring and fall — the data hints at an undeniable trend: The industry is shifting to generation that creates less carbon dioxide.

Electric cooperatives here in North Carolina are no exception to that trend. In fact, we’re national leaders when it comes to our low-carbon fuel mix. We see it as such a critical part of doing business that we’ve made it one of three core values, along with grid flexibility and beneficial electrification, to ensure a brighter energy future (see “Building a Brighter Energy Future, Together,” April 2019, page 4).

But how will a low-carbon portfolio benefit you? How will it ultimately benefit electric co-op members and our communities? The answer comes down to three priorities: cost and reliability, meeting member needs, and doing so in an environmentally responsible way.

When you hear about low-carbon electricity in the news, it’s often framed as an endpoint or a goal. But

in practice, low-carbon electricity is a path, not a destination. North Carolina’s electric cooperatives get their power from a wide range of sources, including assets owned by the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC).

In the 1980s, NCEMC purchased a share of the carbon-free Catawba Nuclear Station in South Carolina — a major step on the path to a lowcarbon fuel mix. North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have since incorporated more power purchased from natural gas-fired power plants, as well as power from solar and hydro resources.

This diversity helps ensure reliability and affordability for our members.

Our fuel mix is not dependent on any one main fuel source. It’s a sustainable solution for power generation.

Equally as important, providing low-carbon electricity is a way that electric co-ops can meet member needs and expectations. Fifty years ago, consumers valued power that was reliable, affordable and delivered safely, which all hold true today. But now many consumers also have an interest in renewable energy. As a result, several co-ops across the state, including my own, have launched community solar projects. Tideland EMC also hosts the state’s first microgrid project, on Ocracoke Island, which consists of solar production, Wi-Fi controlled thermostats and water heaters, battery storage and a traditional diesel generator. Together, these resources are available for

normal electric distribution on the island when power cost savings can be achieved, as well as limited emergency use when mainland power is unavailable.

We’re finding that many businesses also value low-carbon electricity — some are even required to meet certain standards by larger, national partners. North Carolina’s electric co-ops are working with these businesses on a case-by-case basis, ensuring we can provide what they need to succeed with resources like onsite solar power, energy storage or a custom microgrid project located on or near the actual site of the business.

Lastly, meeting member needs with a low-carbon portfolio means we are delivering reliable and affordable power in an environmentally responsible way. One of the core Cooperative Principles that all electric co-ops share is a Concern for Community. Utilizing resources in a practical, sustainable way ensures the youth of today can benefit from the quality of life our communities have built over generations.

When electric co-op employees show up to work every day, we’re doing our jobs with our members in mind. Striving for a low-carbon fuel mix — with affordability and reliability as priorities — is just another way we’re working to serve you.

Paul G. Spruill is GM & CEO for Tideland EMC in Pantego. He was seated as president of NCEMC at its 2019 annual meeting.

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Viewpoints

THIS MONTH’S ISSUE:

Get Outside!

Admittedly, most of us wouldn’t be able to pull off that move on this issue’s cover.

But June is a great month to get out and enjoy the amazing natural beauty of North Carolina, whether on a trail, at a campsite or from the bleachers of your local ballpark. We hope our features this month inspire a few outdoor excursions.

—Scott Gates, editor

Marine Base Memories I was so happy to read “A Storied Knife” by Bob Edwards in the January 2019 edition of Carolina Country (page 5). To my surprise, he wrote about the Flint River in Albany, Georgia. My family, too, lived on the Marine base, as my dad was in the Navy. Some of my fondest memories were of fishing with my dad on the Flint River. While I love living in North Carolina (especially snow, beautiful snow), I wish I had taken pictures of some of the wildlife we encountered there, from alligators to water moccasins. It was a magical place, with trees dripping Spanish moss growing right out of the swampier parts of the river. I learned to drive a boat and landed some of the largest fish the river had to offer on my own.

I would like to thank Mr. Edwards for reminding me of this wonderful place that will forever remain a part of history in my mind.

Angela Mabrey Jones, Lincolnton A member of Rutherford EMC

Co-op Powered Cookies I’m one of the 700,000 people who receive the monthly publication of Carolina Country. I look forward to reading the many articles each month.

At 86 years old, I go back to when electricity was brought to our home.

I seem to remember it was called REA, then Davidson EMC and now EnergyUnited.

Throughout those 80-plus years we have had excellent service at our home and family business, Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies

(hanescookies.com), where Mrs. Hanes hand-made Moravian cookies.

In this day and age there are fewer and fewer things made in the U.S.A., much less by hand.

Evva Hanes, my wife, took over the cottage craft of Moravian cookie making in 1960. The business has slowly grown from a 2,600 square‑foot building to a 36,000 square‑foot building. The primary business is mail order, with a list of over 65,000 customers who have had the cookies. Now cookies are shipped to all 50 states and 25 foreign countries each year.

None of this would have been possible without the help of electric co-ops.

Travis Hanes, Clemmons A member of EnergyUnited

Correction to our May issue Walter Pinchbeck and his wife, Bertha, had six children, not five as initially stated in “A Life in Postcards” (page 20).

Contact us Phone: 919-875-3091 Fax: 919-878-3970 Mail: 3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616 Web: carolinacountry.com Email: editor@carolinacountry.com

Change of Address: carolinacountry.com/address Experiencing a power outage?

Please contact your electric co-op directly to ensure prompt service. Visit carolinacountry.com/co-ops to find yours online.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800)

Read monthly in more than 700,000 homes Published monthly by

3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616 919-875-3091 carolinacountry.com Warren Kessler Publications Director Scott Gates, CCC Editor Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor Karen Olson House Contributing Editor Tara Verna Creative Director Erin Binkley Graphic Designer Tom Siebrasse Advertising tom@carolinacountry.com Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO North Carolina’s electric cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to 1 million homes and businesses. The 26 electric cooperatives are each member-owned, not-for-profit and overseen by a board of directors elected by the membership.

Why Do We Send You Carolina Country Magazine?

Your cooperative sends you Carolina Country as a convenient, economical way to share with its members information about services, director elections, meetings and management decisions. The magazine also carries legal notices that otherwise would be published in other media at greater cost.

Your co-op’s board of directors authorizes a subscription to Carolina Country on behalf of the membership at a cost of less than $5 per year.

Has your address changed?

Carolina Country magazine is available monthly to members of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives. If you are a member of one of these cooperatives but do not receive Carolina Country, you may request a subscription by calling Member Services at the office of your cooperative. If your address has changed, please inform your cooperative.

Subscriptions: Individual subscriptions, $12 per year. $20 outside U.S.A. Schools, libraries, $6.

Carolina Country is available on digital cartridge as a courtesy of volunteer services at the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Raleigh, N.C. 888-388-2460.

Advertising published in Carolina Country is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to customers at the advertised price. The magazine, North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc., and the member cooperatives do not necessarily endorse the products or services advertised. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading is never knowingly accepted.

Should you encounter advertising that does not comply with these standards, please inform Carolina Country at P.O. Box 27306, Raleigh, NC 27611. 919-875-3091.

Carolina Country magazine is a member of American MainStreet Publications that collectively reach more than 27 million readers every month.

Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, N.C., and additional mailing offices. Editorial offices: 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, N.C. 27616. Carolina Country® is a registered trademark of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to Carolina Country, P.O. Box 27306, Raleigh, NC 27611.

All content © Carolina Country unless otherwise indicated.

June 2019 | 5

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More Power

Young leader panel participants (left to right) Lisa Crawley, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives (moderator); Caitlin Finley; Victoria Baskett; and Qua’Zavion Johnson.

Gov. Roy Cooper spoke on issues important to electric co-ops.

NC Co-ops Position for a Bright Future Annual Meeting focuses on innovation and service

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4

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Leadership staff and directors from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives met in Raleigh this April for the 2019 Statewide Annual Meeting. The event provided an opportunity to compare notes and share success stories from around the state, with speakers and presentations addressing the meeting theme, “Energy Solutions for a Brighter Future.”

A young leader panel focused on the opportunities electric co-ops provide young people in their communities.

The panel included Caitlin Finley, the Youth Leadership Council scholarship recipient from Blue Ridge Energy; Victoria Baskett, a Miss NC STEM Scholarship recipient; and Qua’Zavion Johnson, a recent Cooperative Leadership Camp participant.

“There are so many co-ops in this room doing so many wonderful things in their communities,” Finley said. “But many students just don’t know about them … It’s important to get the word out there that co-ops have these opportunities.”

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper addressed attendees at the Rural Electric Action Program (REAP) political action committee breakfast. His remarks touched on several issues important to electric co-ops and their members, including rural broadband access, education, healthcare and disaster recovery. “[Electric co-ops] are the backbone of rural North Carolina,” Gov. Cooper said. “I’m grateful for what you do.”

"There are so many co-ops in this room doing so many wonderful things in their communities."

Who’s Who at the Annual Meeting STATEWIDE LEADERS The following were elected to 2019–2020 board leadership positions:

Paul Spruill

NCEMC (power supply): President Paul Spruill, Tideland EMC; Vice President Greg Puckett, Surry-Yadkin EMC; Secretary-Treasurer Susan Flythe, Cape Hatteras EC. NCAEC (co-op services): President Max Walser, EnergyUnited; Vice President Jeffrey T. Clark, Jones-Onslow EMC; Secretary-Treasurer Suzy Morgan, Wake Electric.

Max Walser

TEMA (material supply): District I, Greg Andress, Union Power; District II, Columbus Jeffers, Roanoke EC; District III, Calvin Duncan, Brunswick Electric.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIPS The North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives awards three scholarships each year to Youth Tour participants from the past year: • Wesley Cowand (South River EMC) received

the Katie Bunch Memorial Scholarship • Isa Lu (Four County EMC) received the Gwyn

B. Price Memorial Scholarship • Caitlin Finley (Blue Ridge Energy) received the

Youth Leadership Council Scholarship.

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Charging ahead.

Electric cooperatives are building a network of electric vehicle charging stations across North Carolina — bringing tourism and economic opportunity to communities, helping reduce emissions and opening the door for co-op consumer-members statewide to shape the future through the adoption of this technology.

Learn more at ncelectriccooperatives.com.

Powering and empowering the people and communities we serve.

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More Power

Report: Electric Co-ops Fuel U.S. Economy North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are part of a national network that collectively serves 42 million people across 88% of U.S. counties. It’s a large network, and new data show it’s also a major contributor to the nation’s economy.

From 2013–2017, electric co-ops contributed $881 billion in U.S. sales output, $440 billion in gross domestic product (GDP), $200 billion in labor income, $112 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenues, and supported an average of nearly 612,000 U.S. jobs on an annual basis. The economic analysis was commissioned

"Electric cooperatives are powerful engines of economic development in their local communities."

by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and the National Cooperative Services Corporation, a provider of specialized financing services to electric co-ops.

Co-ops contributed an average $88 billion to U.S. GDP each year during the study period.

“For reference, U.S. GDP was $19.4 trillion in 2017, meaning electric co-ops were responsible for approximately 0.47 percent of the U.S. economy as measured by GDP,” the report said. “According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the annual GDP contribution is similar in magnitude to the annual GDP of states such as Hawaii, New Hampshire or New Mexico.”

The jobs total breaks down between direct jobs — employment and those created by direct spending (165,800); indirect jobs, created through suppliers (170,900); and induced jobs, primarily from capital credits retired and paid in cash to consumers (274,900).

“This report quantifies what many rural American families and businesses know well — electric cooperatives are powerful engines of economic development in their local communities,” said NRECA CEO Jim Matheson.

The full report is available at bitly.com/co-opeconomics2019.

NC State Predicts Average Hurricane Season

Hurricane Florence slammed into the North Carolina coast last September.

NOAA

The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November, and this year storm activity is predicted to be “normal,” according to NC State researchers.

This means roughly 13 to 16 named storms are likely to form in the Atlantic Basin, which includes the entire Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Of those named storms, five to seven may grow strong enough to become hurricanes (the historical average is six). Two to three of the storms may become major hurricanes.

While the predicted season is slightly more active than the long-term average of 11 named storms (from 1950 to 2018), it is in line with the recent average of 14 (from 1995 to 2018), according to Lian Xie, professor of marine, earth and atmospheric sciences at NC State.

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More Power More Power

Questioning Space Heater Efficiency How do those numbers add up?

We recently received a comment from a reader about a 2016 article on electric space heater efficiency (“Electric Space Heaters,” January 2016, page 30). The article included this stat: “Electric space heaters are all 100 percent efficient at turning electricity into heat, but an Energy Star air-source heat pump can be 300 percent efficient.”

Q:

It’s nearly impossible to have a 100 percent efficient heater. In reality, most heaters are around 30–50 percent efficient. To list a 300 percent efficient heater shows that you don’t have someone on your staff who understands what heaters actually do.

A 300 percent efficient heater breaks the first law of thermodynamics.

Shawn, submitted via carolinacountry.com

A:

You make a good point, Shawn. The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed. The “300 percent” figure used in the article was imprecise. What it means is that a heat pump can deliver about three times as much thermal energy as it uses in electric energy. The heat pump does this by capturing heat in one location and

delivering it to another location.

Instead of converting electric energy to thermal energy as an electric resistance heater does, the heat pump is primarily moving heat from place to place.

Thank you for a good comment — it tells me I need to be more clear when I talk about heat pump efficiency.

—Pat Keegan, regular contributor of Carolina Country’s Energy Sense column

2019

There’s nothing finer ...

Categories include: Food & Drink

Travel

BBQ Southern Cookin’ Sweets Winery Craft Beer

Historic Site Festival Getaway Lake Beach Trail

Entertainment Musician/Band Athlete (From or currently playing in NC)

Movie set or filmed in NC Artist or Author

Nothing beats a Carolina morning—but there’s much more to love in our great state. Carolina Country is proud to introduce our first annual Carolina’s Finest Awards showcasing the finest North Carolina has to offer, to be published in our December issue.

We need your help! We’re leaving it up to you, our readers, to pick the best of the best. Visit carolinacountry.com/finest by June 30 and cast your votes in the categories below. Each voter will be entered into a drawing for one of three $100 gift cards.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, complete online entry form at carolinacountry.com/finest, or mail in your votes to Carolina Country’s Finest, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616, for a chance to win. All contact information will remain confidential. One entry per person, drawn by random; odds of receiving one (1) of the three $100 gift cards depend upon number of entries received. Entries must be completed online at carolinacountry.com/finest by June 30, 2019. Random drawing will take place July 1, 2019.

Shopping Farmers Market Antiquing Made in NC (NC product)

Cast your vote at carolinacountry.com/finest

by June 30 for a chance to win $100!

10 | carolinacountry.com

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There’s nothing like hopping on a bike in the summertime, pedaling fast and feeling the wind against your face. It almost makes you feel like a carefree kid again.

Whether you’re a casual weekend pedal pusher or a fierce trailblazer, North Carolina has the terrain to match both your skill level and your ambition. And with its epic vistas, relatively moderate climate and high elevation, Western NC draws cyclists from across the country.

Here are a few cycling destinations for riders of any ability.

High Country

Cycling ff-road

on- and o th o b s, n o ti p o ic p e rs e stern NC off

We

By Tina Firesheets Photos by Perfecta Vis ua

ls

(unless otherwise ind

icated)

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O t o t

New River Route

Tsali Trails

Difficulty: Gear: Road bike

Difficulty: Gear: Mountain bike

A flat bike route in the mountains?

Absolutely.

If a gentle, leisurely pedal through the country is more your speed, head over to the South Fork of the New River in Ashe County. Bring your own bike, or rent one from RiverGirl Fishing Co. in Todd (336-877-3099 or rivergirlfishing.com), and ride 11 miles of flat road from Todd to Fleetwood. It’s 22 miles roundtrip on a paved road that was once the end of the line for the Virginia Creeper Railroad.

While cars also travel this road, it’s only used by locals, says RiverGirl owner Kelly McCoy. Besides her business, Todd only contains a general store, bakery, post office and two churches, Kelly says. Traffic is sparse.

Kelly started her business as a fly fishing operation. But once there, customers wanted to explore other activities such as canoeing, tubing and biking. She says the bike road is the flattest to be found in the High Country.

“It’s a leisure bike road. You can pretend you’re the old train riding down the road because you’d be going about the speed of the train that used to run, and you follow the river the whole way,” Kelly says.

She says riders can see up to a dozen species of birds, including great blue herons, ospreys and a bald eagle.

Beavers, muskrats and otters work and play in the river.

“Bicycles allow you to slow down,” Kelly says. “Unlike in a car, when you’re on a bicycle you can even see ladybugs crossing the road.”

If you’re looking for legendary trails with the reputation of being among the best in the Southeast, head to the Tsali (pronounced “SAH-lee”) Recreation Area in Nantahala National Forest.

Chris Royce and his business partner, Brad Gerard, each have about 25 years of mountain biking experience under their belts. Their shop, Tsali Cycles in Bryson City (828-488-9010 or tsalicycles.com), has been in operation five years. Chris says riders from all over the East Coast travel to this small mountain town just to ride the Tsali trail loops.

“The trails are geared more toward intermediate-level riders, but anyone from beginners to advanced riders love the Tsali trails,” he says. “Cycling in this area has a lot of diversity that allows for every skill level. The trail options continue to grow every year, which brings more people to the area.”

The trails comprise more than 40 miles of hilly paths divided into four loops, with varying degrees of difficulty. For a challenge, look for Right Loop, which offers lots of hills and a few creek crossings. The more moderate Thompson Loop offers fewer obstacles, but is still quite hilly.

Chris says spring and fall are the best times to ride the Tsali trails.

“The weather is great and the scenery is amazing at those times of year,” he says.

Ashe County

Sean Royall speeds through a turn on Witches Backbone.

The High Country

Boone, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain Difficulty: Gear: Mountain bike

Sean Royall got into cycling when he moved to the Banner Elk-Beech Mountain area, known as the High Country.

The Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Director has been mountain biking for 19 years now. He says the region — which includes Banner Elk, Beech Mountain and Boone — has a growing bicycling scene. Each town has something different to offer, he says.

Lees-McRae College has a well‑ established cycling team, and their home trails are challenging. Sean describes Beech Mountain as an outdoor enthusiast’s kind of town.

“Our biking options have been growing more over the last five years,” he says.

Going the Distance The 21st annual Mountains to Coast Ride, September 28 to October 5, is a fully supported cross-state ride that begins in Blowing Rock and ends on the boardwalk of Atlantic Beach. Cycle North Carolina sponsors this and annual coastal and mountain region rides (the 2019 Mountain Ride is in Brevard, Aug. 3–4). Find more information, including registration details, at ncsports.org.

Yancey County Chamber

Opposite: Mountain biker Patrick O’Neal takes a jump on Witches Backbone, part of the Emerald Outback trail network, in the town of Beech Mountain.

Nantahala National Forest

The Yancey County Chamber of Commerce has organized the annual Burnsville Metric ride each April for the past 25 years. The fully supported metric century (100 km) is a leisurely ride — not a race — to kick off the cycling season.

Learn more at yanceychamber.com/burnsville-metric.

June 2019 | 13

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Trail Tips for

Weekend Cyclists Casual rider Gwen Gosney Erickson lends these tips for new cyclists: ||Know your bike and how it works, in case you need to make any adjustments along the way. ||Ensure your seat is adjusted properly and everything is set to best fit your height. ||A rear rack is convenient for carrying snacks and rain gear.

Sean Royall pauses with other riders to take in the view on Southern Ridge, part of the Emerald Outback trail network.

||Pack a basic bike repair kit. ||Don’t forget your helmet and bottled water.

Jacob Tarbay splashes through a creek crossing on Grassy Gap.

Riders Patrick O’Neal, right, and Sean Royall share a laugh.

Joe Boyd prepares for a rooty descent on Southern Ridge.

Tanner Brown bombs down a rock face near the Southern Ridge trail.

The ski resort there offers downhill biking in the summer, and the town operates and manages several trails on the mountain, including those known as the Emerald Outback. The trail system is a 7-mile park that operates year-round. With an elevation of 4,700 to 5,400 feet, it’s the highest mountain biking trail system on the East Coast.

In 2013 and 2014, USA Cycling hosted its collegiate national championships at the Emerald Outback.

The Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Department also offers mountain bike lessons and guided rides.

Sean says weekend warriors can ride the High Country trails, but lends this advice: “It is real mountain biking, not a greenway, so being prepared with the proper gear and bike is essential.”

For more of a challenge, Sean cites Rocky Knob in Boone, Emerald Outback and several trails in Pisgah National Forest. To train for those rides, he says one just needs to ride more.

Regardless of whether you are a novice or experienced cyclist, Sean says the most important thing is to have fun.

“The main thing is to enjoy being on your bike,” he says. “Don’t let the difficult terrain get you down. If you can’t ride something, just make it a goal to complete it and keep having fun. Biking is a great community to be a part of.”

Tina Firesheets is a freelance writer based in Jamestown, North Carolina.

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Take mE out to the

Ball�Game�

Edenton celebrates celebrates the the 80th 80th anniversary anniversary of of historic historic Hicks Hicks Field Field Edenton Story and and photos photos by

by Leah Leah Chester-Davis Chester-Davis Story

The crack of the bat echoes through the warm June evening as a crowd of several hundred people gathers to cheer the home team, the Edenton Steamers, at historic Hicks Field. Some of the spectators are baseball enthusiasts, others like the social aspects of the evening.

With an inexpensive ticket price (no more than $5 for adults and less for students) the whole family can enjoy an evening out without busting the bank. It’s a chance to have a $2 hotdog or a refreshing Sno-cone, visit with friends and neighbors, and watch people in the fun-loving crowd, like a 9-year-old boy who marches as a oneman band, honking on a trombone while a string of younger children dance and twirl behind him. It’s small-town America at its best.

As part of the collegiate Coastal Plain League, the home team consists

Steamers mascots Sam & Pam the Clam

of college players from around the country who are spending the summer honing their line drives, their fast balls or their field positions while getting a taste of what it’s like to play professional sports.

Community support

The entire community of Edenton welcomes the players, coaches and interns where they become celebrities of sorts. As many as 40 host families provide summer lodging in their homes.

“Host families are the backbone of the Steamers’ organization,” says Vickie Barrow, who serves on the Steamers’ board of directors and has chaired the host family committee in the past. Her family also has served as a host family.

“I think host families enjoy being an integral part of something so important in our community,” Vickie says. “The whole community takes pride in the team.”

For Edenton Steamers owner Frank Burke, the small-town atmosphere is perfect.

“My favorite thing in all of it, and always has been, is a grandparent

with a grandchild watching a baseball game,” he says. “And having these boys in our community is nice, too.

It teaches them the world is not just big cities or big campuses. It’s nice to have them, and we try to make sure they have fun, which is what they need to do in the summertime.”

Historic training ground

For Edenton, in particular, baseball has a rich history — the town was home to minor league baseball and semipro teams, including the Edenton Colonials, up until 1952. Its baseball stadium, which sits at the edge of the school grounds of John A. Holmes High School, lends to the storied lore. The stadium was built as a Works Project Administration (WPA) project back in 1939 when Franklin D. Roosevelt was president.

The all-wood grandstand is the oldest remaining wooden grandstand of its type in North Carolina, and it is on National Register of Historic Places. The grandstand holds about 500 people, and bleachers have been added on either side of the historic structure to help accommodate larger crowds.

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�

d

s

“The whole community takes

Pride in the team�" While the historic field may conjure up bygone days, every aspect of how the Edenton Steamers organization is run gives a nod to the future, specifically as a training ground for not only the athletes but for the general manager, the game broadcaster, the office and concessions staff, the marketing team, and the umpires. It’s a group of young people who are hoping to move up the ranks into professional baseball.

Tyler Russell graduated from NC State in 2014; the 2019 season will be his fifth as general manager.

He started as an intern during his college years as a sports management major. He oversees all aspects of the ballpark and works with Coach Russ Burroughs to recruit players.

“This is the step between college ball and professional baseball,” Tyler explains. “The schedule we have is modeled after professional baseball with playing every day, and on the road, off the road, wooden bats, things of that nature. It’s preparing them for professional baseball, which they all hope to get to at one point.”

The Savannah what?

Of the 16 teams in the Coastal Plain League, 10 are in North Carolina — and all have creative names. The NC teams are the Asheboro Copperheads, Edenton Steamers, Fayetteville Swampdogs, Forest City Owls, Gastonia Grizzlies, High PointThomasville Hitoms, Holly Springs Salamanders, Morehead City Marlins, Wilmington Sharks and Wilson Tobs.

The six teams in neighboring states are the Florence Redwolves and Lexington County Blowfish (South Carolina), Martinsville Mustangs and Peninsula Pilots (Virginia) and Macon Bacon and Savannah Bananas (Georgia).

Because players don’t get paid, being part of the Coastal Plain League does not affect the players’ amateur status and most will return to their college teams in late summer.

In addition to honing skills, the league gives the players exposure to professional scouts.

Tyler and coach Russ Burroughs work together to recruit players to the team. While there is no travel budget for recruiting trips, the two look at stats or talk with coaches. They may

Catch a game The Steamers’ 2019 schedule runs May through August, with details at edentonsteamers.com. If you can’t make it out to see the Steamers play, try to catch a game in a local collegiate league near you:

Carolina Shores Collegiate League carolinashoresbaseball.com

Carolina-Virginia Collegiate League cvscl.com

Coastal Plain League coastalplain.com

Southern Collegiate Baseball League scbl.pointstreaksites.com

Tidewater Summer League tidewatersummerleague.com

June 2019 | 17

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“I really love the town. I like how

Everybody knows everybody�" contact as many as 100 schools. Last year, 25 schools were represented on the team.

Steamers coach Russ Burroughs

Players huddle during a practice

Fans fill bleachers flanking the historic grandstand

Building careers

Names and faces change from year to year. Tyler shares that some of the more notable players from past summers include Greg Holland, who played for the Kansas City Royals and was in the World Series two years in a row, winning one year. He now plays for the St. Louis Cardinals. Others are Joe Smith, who is now with the Houston Astros, and Joey Wendle, who plays for Tampa Bay. “[Joey] is probably the biggest fan favorite the Steamers have ever had,” Tyler says, perhaps in part because he married someone locally and spends time in the area.

Last year was the first year for head coach Russ Burroughs, from Nashville, Tennessee; the year before he served as pitching coach for the Steamers.

“I really love the town. I like how everybody knows everybody. This is really the only entertainment in this town, so everyone really gets behind these guys,” Russ says. “I like the pro aspect, and that’s kinda how we’re running this team. Everybody’s dream is to play pro ball, so we’re going to treat it as a professional organization, to get them ready for that.”

One of the major features of the Coastal Plain League is the use of wooden bats, another aspect that prepares players for Major League Baseball (which uses only wooden bats).

“When you switch from college to summer ball, you switch from metal

bats to wooden bats,” Russ says.

“Anybody can hit with an aluminum bat. It takes a special hitter to hit with wood. We play 52 games in 70 days.

It’s basically simulated minor league baseball. It tells the scouts and the professional organizations whether a guy can handle the ins and out of everyday baseball — the grind.”

P.J. Potter, from Lodi, New Jersey, graduated from Hofstra University in 2018 and spent last summer as a broadcaster for the Steamers.

“This is a good stepping stone — I’m really excited. I hope to get into affiliated minor league baseball and move up through the ranks,” he said at the time. While P.J. had other options, a conversation with Tyler and some research about Edenton cemented his decision. “This seemed like the best fit. The town is beautiful. It’s small but right on the water, everybody knows each other. It’s very friendly.”

His pick paid off, and at the end of the 2018 season, P.J. was recognized as the 2018 Coastal Plain League Broadcaster of the Year.

Both general manager Russell and coach Burroughs are back for the 2019 season, working with a new slate of players, office and concessions personnel — and a new broadcaster.

P.J. left a slot to fill. He recently settled back up north with the media department of a ball club familiar to most: the New York Yankees.

Leah Chester-Davis loves to explore North Carolina. Her business, Chester‑Davis Communications (chester-davis.com), specializes in food, farm, gardening and lifestyle brands and organizations.

18 | carolinacountry.com

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Carolina Living

Make water more interesting by flavoring it with fresh fruit, vegetables or herbs.

Weight Loss for Long-Term Gains Four tips to help you shed those 5 pounds

Maybe you want more energy, or perhaps you want to lose weight and keep it off for good.

Whatever your goals, you can decide that now is the time to make a fresh start to become the best version of yourself. Get your scale moving in the right direction and support your long-term health with these four tips.

1

Skip “diet” drinks. Of course, you know it’s not the best idea to order the regular cola with your meal, but you may figure the lower-calorie diet version is okay. Not necessarily. Research has found that artificial sweeteners often used in diet drinks may be linked to an increased body mass index. If you want something fizzy, opt for seltzer with lemon or lime. But if you can’t stop dreaming of that diet soda, it doesn’t have to be completely offlimits. Just cut back. Moderation is key!

2

Drink more water. When you don’t get enough, your body can’t perform normal functions, which can drain your energy. More fatigue means less physical activity. Plus, mild dehydration is often masked as hunger — prompting you to grab a snack when all you really need is water. Experts recommend drinking at least eight, 8-ounce glasses daily.

3

Slow down. It takes 20 minutes for the “I’m full” signals from your stomach to reach your brain. When you inhale your food, it’s much easier to eat more than your body really needs. Studies have shown that fast eaters are more likely to be obese, compared to slow eaters. To

help slow down, take smaller bites, chew 10 to 15 times and put your fork down between each bite.

4

Don’t guess at portions. Restaurants often present super-sized meals, which can help create a skewed view of proper portions. Even if you’re tracking your food intake with an app or food journal, overestimating portions can sabotage progress. So, measure food portions.

You may not have to do this forever, but it’s especially good to do it at the start. Doing so will help you get a visual of what portions should actually look like. You may also consider eliminating some of the guesswork with a pre-portioned meal program.

Learning about other people’s efforts can be inspiring and motivating. Success stories from people who lost weight can be found at websites such as nutrisystem.com.

Finally, don’t underestimate the effect stress has on weight-loss efforts. Stress increases hormones that stimulate appetite, and the food people crave for comfort tends to be high in fat and sugar. Help manage stress with deep breathing, meditation, exercise, hanging out with friends and listening to music.

—Statepoint

June 2019 | 21

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5/10/19 12:45 PM

Carolina Living

Smart Appliances

Consider pros, cons when mulling purchases

By Laura Araujo

Imagine a refrigerator that notices when the milk is low and orders more from an online grocery store. It might sound space-age, but this technology exists through smart appliances (appliances with built-in technology that enables them to connect to the internet). Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider when it comes to owning them.

Energy savings. Smart appliances are designed to save energy. For example, homeowners can schedule their dishwasher to run during offpeak times when the cost of electricity is less expensive.

Convenience. A baker or cook with messy hands can preheat their oven simply by speaking to it. And

rather than having an appliance repair person come out to recalibrate the oven, a manufacturer can do it remotely.

Security. With connected appliances, there is a risk of hackers accessing a home’s wireless network.

Research ways to keep your network safe, such as by connecting appliances to a separate network from your computer.

Cost. They are more expensive than traditional appliances. With this in mind, you may want to select key appliances when purchasing them.

Laura Araujo is a freelance writer who contributes to electric co-op publications nationwide.

January 2019

Love Carolina Country? Don’t miss an issue!

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June 2019

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5/10/19 3:12 PM

20 ANNUAL REPORT 18 MEMBER FOCUSED. YOUR COOPERATIVE ADVANTAGE.

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 1

5/10/19 1:07 PM

MEMBER FOCUSED. YOUR COOPERATIVE ADVANTAGE.

Dear Member, As your cooperative modernizes and innovates to continue providing the best value to members, our core commitment remains steadfast: keeping your electricity reliable and your bill as low as possible.

Keeping rates stable is the most important way we can help keep your bill lower. We’re very pleased to say that due to our favorable wholesale power cost, 2019 will mark six straight years we’ve completed with no rate increase for members!

The net benefit from our subsidiaries is also helping keep rates affordable. While our Blue Ridge Energy Propane and Fuels subsidiary delivers propane, heating fuels, and gas heating appliances to the region, our RidgeLink subsidiary offers businessto-business broadband and telecommunications services. Last year we posted $3.3 million in net benefit from the subsidiaries, and these funds go directly to help hold down rates.

These results are backed by excellent employee performance in all of our Key Performance Indicators, especially reliability, customer service, and safety. We rank among the best in the nation in these categories, which is a testament to our entire team working to achieve the best results for our members and customers.

Following through on our member-centric mission includes other landmark moments in 2018 to benefit members: • Over 4,000 members joined our “Beat the Peak” program

to help keep rates lower for all by shaving demand during

peak electricity demand periods. Combined with the

cooperative’s other demand control programs, this translated

to over $450,000 in wholesale power cost savings.

• Started construction of a new 230kV line and substation from Ashe County to Watauga County, which is the largest construction project in our history to provide the capacity and reliability needed to serve members.

• Returned over $5 million to members through our capital credits refund, and another $5.24 million will be returned by May, 2019.

2019 Annual Meeting June 27, 2019, 4 PM Corporate Office, Lenoir NC

• Began construction on a new corporate headquarters building to serve as the hub for three companies: your cooperative and its two subsidiaries. It also includes a secure dispatch center where our entire electric system is monitored and coordinated for members and line technicians as well as our wholesale power source.

Blue Ridge Energy is improving lives in our service area in many different ways, a few of which you’ll see in this annual report. We hope you see our devotion to the people and communities we serve all across northwest North Carolina and beyond.

– Jeff Joines, President / Doug Johnson, CEO

01

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 2

2018 Annual Report

5/10/19 1:07 PM

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At Blue Ridge Energy, we’re always looking at

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ways to improve your service, and to enhance your overall member experience. The latest example of this commitment comes in the form of the major transmission upgrade that we began in 2018.

This enormous endeavor, officially known as the

ess-

Horse Gap to Rutherwood 230 kV Project, will expand

year

our capacity, allowing us to meet the reliability needs of members in our mountain service locations today, as well as a half-century from now. Why is this

in all

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$40 million project so necessary? Because the original

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17 miles of transmission line that provides electricity

o

from Ashe County to Watauga County was built more than 50 years ago, and is exceeding its lifespan.

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In addition, this project also includes building a new substation in the Rutherwood community of

m

Watauga County. This represents the largest system

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improvement in our history, and we are closely monitoring and containing costs. In the long run, this

ated

will be beneficial for our members, and ensures that your cooperative will provide the best service possible now and for future generations.

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your cooperative advantage

Successfully kicked off "Beat The Peak" with over 4,000 members joining this voluntary member effort to conserve electricity when usage is at its highest. This program along with other cooperative efforts have saved members nearly half a million dollars. Sign up today as working together is your cooperative advantage!

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 3

2018 Annual Report

02

5/10/19 1:07 PM

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technology & innovation

As a cooperative, Blue Ridge Energy belongs to the members and communities we serve. Our core directive is keeping your costs low while providing the best,

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most reliable service. Our innovation to achieve this includes growing your electric cooperative to include a Propane and Fuels subsidiary company with service in all district offices. A second subsidiary, RidgeLink, provides businesses

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in NC and beyond with broadband and telecommunications service. Your subsidiaries are contributing over $3 million annually that go directly to help hold down member rates. We believe in the cooperative business model and all the benefits that means for local communities.

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Come visit one of four district offices and see for yourself what innovative and beautiful energy-saving products are available. Whether you are looking for an indoor or outdoor fireplace, heater, back-up power generator, water heater or decorative outdoor products such as gas grills, fire tables and fire pits, stop by your local cooperative district office first.

Outdoor Kitchens

03

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 4

Fireplaces

Fire Pits

Water Heaters

2018 Annual Report

5/10/19 1:07 PM

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have lower operating costs and driving economy. New models can travel up to 200 miles on a single charge. And, public charging stations are increasing. Your cooperative helped secure funding for public EV chargers in Blowing Rock and West Jefferson, and installed the fastest charger on the market at our Caldwell District office for public use!

Gasoline vs. Electric: Cost to drive 27 Miles $4.00 $3.50

Average Compact Gasoline Vehicle

$3.00 $2.50 $2.00 $1.50

Electric Vehicle

$1.00 $0.50

20 11

20 10

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08 20

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environmental impact, there are serious cost savings, too! EVs

Dollars unadjusted for inflation

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While the obvious benefit of an electric vehicle (EV) is the

Comparison assumes a 27 mpg gasoline vehicle (average compact fuel efficiency) and an electric vehicle efficiency of 0.34 kWh/mile. Sources: EIA 2013a; EIA 2013b; EIA 2013c.

Hundreds of Dollars in SAVINGS A YEAR

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rs

To support local economic and community development, we’ve secured over $6 million in zero-interest loans and grants since 2005 for projects approved by the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG). Most recently, Blue Ridge Energy was awarded

quality of life

over $2.8 million in zero-interest loans for the following approved projects: City of Lenoir: $1.36 million to build a new fire department for an underserved area of homes, businesses, and three schools.

Adhezion Biomedical, LLC: $1 million to help this surgical component manufacturer expand and create 40 new jobs.

Grace Chapel Fire Department: $552,000 to help purchase a water pumper truck and rescue equipment.

300,000 GRANT

$

FOR A NEW FIRE DEPARTMENT Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 5

2018 Annual Report

04

5/10/19 1:07 PM

money back to

you

Largest capital credits return ever in 2018 In May of 2018 we returned over $5 million in capital credits to our members, and this year we did the same. Capital credits are truly a unique benefit, and serve as a reminder

Left

David

Jame

Jeff J

Cind

that you’re not only a Blue Ridge Energy member, but an owner too.

Brya

Kelly Tom

Joy C

Brad

ELECTRIC BILL BREAKDOWN

David

Mitch

POWER COST $ 54.91

LABOR/BENEFITS $ 12.65

UTILITY PLANT COST 15.64

OPERATING COST $ 13.10

SUBSIDIARY PROFITS/INTEREST INCOME (–$ 3.65)

MEMBER MARGINS $ 7.35

$

REDUCES BILL AMOUNT

John

25

$

Oper ident

3.3

$

Mem and R

1.35

Kilow As a cooperative, we are member owned which means we’re held to a higher standard.

So whether it’s by offering capital credits, managing system upgrades, or responding

76,

swiftly during severe winter weather, we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure we provide

Mete

good value to the people we serve.

– Doug Johnson, CEO

50

$

Cont Blue

05

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 6

2018 Annual Report

5/10/19 1:07 PM

18

s

ITS .65

Board of Directors

COOPERATIVE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL REPORT OPERATING STATEMENT

Year Ending Dec 31 (dollars in thousands)

INCOME

Operating Revenues

2018

156,699

$

174,708

$

LESS OPERATING EXPENSES Cost of Power BRE Cost of Sales Operations & Maintenance Depreciation & Amortization Taxes Interest

Left to Right:

2017

74,270 11,285 38,640 15,812 1,814 8,475

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES Margins from Operations Non—Operating Margins Total Margins

150,296 6,403 4,895 $ 11,298

$

82,389 15,517 43,666 16,258 1,941 8,734 168,505 6,203 4,832 $ 11,035

$

David Eggers, Vice President, Caldwell District James Burl (JB) Lawrence, Watauga District Jeff Joines, President, Caldwell District Cindy Price, Ashe District Bryan Edwards, Alleghany District Kelly Melton, Caldwell District Tom Trexler, Watauga District Joy Coffey, Secretary—Treasurer, Watauga District Bradley McNeill, Ashe District David Boone, Ashe District Mitch Franklin, Alleghany District John Wishon, Jr., Assistant Secretary-Treasurer, Alleghany District

OST 3.10

$

INS 7.35

Operating expense reduction based on employee initiatives identified in 2018

251 Thousand in WorkSmart Savings

3.3 Million

$

Member benefit from subsidiaries: Blue Ridge Energies, LLC and RidgeLink, LLC

1.35 Billion

Kilowatt Hours sold In 2018

76,466

Meters in 2018

BALANCE SHEET

Year Ending Dec 31 (dollars in thousands)

ASSETS $ Electric Facilities 494,338 Less Accumulated Depreciation 158,759 Net Electric Facilities 335,579 Net Non—Utility Property 23,532

515,726 168,828 346,898 24,796 $

CURRENT ASSETS $ $ Cash & Cash Equivalents 6,700 12,438 Accounts Receivable (Net) 24,341 22,982 Inventory 5,674 6,582 Other Current Assets 2,152 2,357 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS Investments Other Assets

$ 38,867 44,359 12,966 13,225 12,668 13,591

$

TOTAL ASSETS

423,612

$

442,869

$

LIABILITIES & MEMBER EQUITY MARGINS & EQUITIES Memberships Other Equities Patronage Capital

$ 109 2,710 165,053

$ 104 4,516 170,157

TOTAL MEMBERSHIP OWNERSHIP $167,872

174,777

$

CURRENT LIABILITIES $ Accounts Payable 12,828 Lines of Credit 37,500 Other Current & Accrued Liabilities 24,618

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES Long-Term Debt Other Non—Current Liabilities

LIABILITIES & MEMBER EQUITY

13,911 0 24,287 $

74,946 149,139 31,655

38,198 194,367 35,527

$

423,612

$

$

442,869

$

50,000

$

Contribution to Members Foundation from subsidiaries: Blue Ridge Energies, LLC and RidgeLink, LLC Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 7

2018 Annual Report

06

5/10/19 1:07 PM

electric reliability

FOUNDATION FINANCIAL REPORT Helping members in need and making local communities better is what the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation is all about. We’d like to personally thank our members for contributing to Operation Round Up® to help support the Members Foundation, with 100 percent of all donations going to help families and our communities.

STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES Year Ending Dec 31

2017

2018

REVENUE General Public Contributions

294,241

Value of Contributed Services

TOTAL

299,210

$

$

23,693 $

24,164

317,934

$

323,374

EXPENSES Assistance Provided

303,214

292,266

23,693

24,164

Administrative Services

CHANGE IN UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS

($8,973)

$

6,944

UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS Beginning of Year

End of Year

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

Year Ending Dec 31

$

191,187

$

182,214

$

182,214 189,158

$

2017

2018

ASSETS

Cash and Cash Equivalents TOTAL ASSETS

182,214

189,158

$ $

$

182,214

$

189,158

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Unrestricted Net Assets

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

182,214

189,158

$

$

$

182,214

Results of Operations electric reliability

$

189,158

99.99

%

We are proud to share that your cooperative is a national leader in electricity reliability. Keeping the lights on 99.99% of the time puts your cooperative among the top quartile of utilities nationally.

07

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 8

2018 Annual Report

5/10/19 1:07 PM

CAL 37.2

Sources of 2018 Foundation Funds

where the funds come from

Operation Round Up® $ 391,958

to

(Includes Balance Forward From 2017)

018

Blue Ridge Energies, LLC RidgeLink, LLC Subsidiary Profits $ 50,000

Capital Credits Donations to Operation Round Up $ 39,466

481,424

$

9,210

4,164

,374

,266

4,164

Distribution of 2018 Foundation Funds Funding to Assist Communities

,944

CHILDREN AND ELDERLY GRANTS

Funding to Assist Families

44,870

KEEPING WARM WITH ELECTRICITY

$

41,700

KEEPING WARM WITH HEATING FUELS

$

22,890

HELPING WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

$

$

106,645

$

2,214

9,158

HEALTHCARE GRANTS

3,336

018 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

$

EMERGENCY SERVICES GRANTS

$

EDUCATION GRANTS

$

7,970

9,158

9,158 27,500

9,158

9,158

37,355

174,315

$

$ $

WATAUGA 15.6%

ALLEGHANY 28.5%

COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT GRANTS CALDWELL 37.2%

ASHE 18.7%

292,266

ALLEGHANY 15.7% WATAUGA 28.2%

CRISIS HEATING ASSISTANCE

ASHE 34.1%

CALDWELL 22.0%

Blue Ridge Energy

Blue Ridge-0619 AR.indd 9

117,951

2018 Annual Report

08

5/10/19 1:07 PM

Carolina Living

Grilled Buttermilk Chicken

Take Your Kitchen Outside Refreshing dishes for warm days

K

eep your kitchen cool and comfortable with grilled meals that banish the heat to the outdoors. Crisp, fresh greens, a blend of spices and savory ingredients make these refreshing dishes great solutions for toasty days.

Zesty mustard, spicy Sriracha and rich buttermilk lend a marinated flavor upgrade to traditional grilled chicken, while salad becomes the star of your dinner table with a simply seasoned sirloin steak, veggies and a tart twist on a creamy dressing.

Find additional recipes at milkmeansmore.org.

1½ cups buttermilk 1 tablespoon mustard powder 1 tablespoon Sriracha 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 teaspoons paprika 4 chicken drumsticks, bone in, skin on 4 chicken thighs, bone in, skin on Vegetable oil, for grill ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley Lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

In medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, mustard powder, Sriracha, garlic and paprika.

Place chicken in large zip-top bag; pour buttermilk mixture over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight.

Heat outdoor grill for direct grilling over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess; discard marinade. Lightly oil grill grates.

Transfer chicken to grill and cook, turning occasionally, 16–18 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Transfer chicken to serving platter. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings

Grilled Steak Salad with Chive Yogurt Dressing Dressing 1 cup plain yogurt 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (3 small limes) 2 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced ¼ teaspoon kosher salt ¹⁄₈ teaspoon black pepper Steak 1 teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon granulated garlic 20 ounces boneless petite sirloin steak Salad 3 cups baby spinach 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce hearts ½ cup sweet red pepper rings ½ cup sweet yellow pepper rings 1 cup avocado chunks ¼ cup thinly shaved red onion

For dressing, combine yogurt, lime juice, milk, chives, garlic, salt and pepper in blender. Blend on low until smooth and chives are completely blended. Transfer dressing to jar with tight lid and refrigerate until serving.

Heat grill to medium.

Combine kosher salt, black pepper and granulated garlic to create rub.

Sprinkle half of seasoning mix over one side of steak, pressing it into meat. Repeat with remaining seasoning on opposite side of steak.

Grill steak over direct medium heat to desired doneness, approximately 4–5 minutes per side for medium pink center. Remove steak from grill and let rest 7–10 minutes.

Toss spinach and romaine on large platter. Scatter red and yellow peppers, avocado and onion over greens. Slice grilled sirloin thinly against grain.

Arrange meat slices in center of salad.

Drizzle dressing over salad just before serving.

Yield: 6 servings —FamilyFeatures.com

24 | carolinacountry.com

CC06-tv.indd 24

5/10/19 12:45 PM

Energy Sense

Julep67

Keep Cool for Less Get your home in top shape for summer

By Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen

In past issues, we’ve discussed some of the easiest ways to make your home more efficient, like reducing solar gains, insulating and ventilating the attic, and sealing air leaks.

But what if cooling costs still remain high during the dog days of summer?

You may need to focus on inefficiencies in your home’s cooling system. But before we address that, let’s look at some other potential problems: ■■ Do

you have a freezer or second refrigerator in the garage? This can be a major energy hog, especially if it’s old and you live in a warmer climate. you have a well? Your pump may be draining your energy use as you rely on it more during the summer. Start by looking for leaks in the system, and if necessary, reduce irrigation.

■■ Do

about a swimming pool? It may be time to overhaul or replace the pool pump. If the pump is in good shape, try putting it on a timer.

■■ How

Ducts in a row If you have central air conditioning (A/C) or a heat pump, make sure your filter has been changed or recently cleaned. The next step is to call an HVAC contractor for a tune-up and a complete an assessment of the system.

A tune-up can improve the efficiency and extend the life of the unit. The tune-up includes cleaning the condenser coil, a check of the refrigerant levels, and a good look at the pump and electrical contacts. Talk to the contractor about the efficiency of the A/C unit. If it’s old, it may be cost‑effective to replace it, even if it’s still functional.

Ductwork is equally important as the A/C unit, so make sure the contractor you choose is capable and willing to provide an expert assessment. A real pro will know how to measure the air flow at each supply and return register. If you’re not getting cool air to the rooms that need it, the contractor may be able to make modifications to the ductwork.

Leaky ductwork can also be a problem. If the ducts are in unconditioned areas like a crawl space or attic, it’s especially important to make sure they’re sealed and insulated.

It will also help to seal ducts that are in conditioned spaces.

Some HVAC contractors can do a duct-blaster test to measure duct leakage. Discuss whether you should ever close any supply registers. Most experts recommend that supply registers are always open.

An HVAC inspector can tell you if your ducts are leaking or in need of insulation.

Window unit tips If you cool your home with window A/C units, there are a few things you can do to maximize your cooling while keeping costs as low as possible.

■■ Use window A/C units in rooms that can be closed off

with a door, to make the cooling as effective as possible.

■■ Make sure you have the right-sized unit for the size

of the room. A unit that’s too big will cool the room before the humidity has been lowered, which will make it feel less cool, while a unit that’s too small will have to work harder, causing a shorter life span — and it may not do the job.

■■ Use an electric fan or ceiling fan to help distribute the

cold air throughout the area you are cooling.

■■ Turn off the A/C unit when no one is in the room.

If your window A/C unit isn’t cooling properly, it may need to be replaced. Look for an Energy Star®-certified unit to make the most of your cooling dollars.

Of course, the simplest way to save money on your A/C is to not use it. As much as possible, keep your activities limited to rooms that are easily cooled. Try to spend more time cooking and eating outside. If you have a basement, think about setting up a second bedroom down there where it’s cooler. Think of it as your new summer hideaway!

This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency. Visit carolinacountry.com/your-energy for more ideas on energy efficiency.

June 2019 | 25

CC06-tv.indd 25

5/10/19 12:45 PM

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4/23/19 10:04 AM 5/10/19 3:12 PM

Mighty Fine W What makes Bogue Sound melons so sweet?

Story, photos and recipes by Wendy Perry

W

hen it comes to a treat in the sultry heat of our North Carolina summertime, few things wet our whistle like an ice-cold chunk of watermelon. Folks who have grown up raising and eating Bogue Sound watermelons will assure you there are none finer than those from the sandy soil along the banks of the sound and the rivers feeding it, with growers scattered throughout Carteret, Onslow and Jones counties.

After toting off quite a few of these mighty fine watermelons over the years, I began to wonder just what makes them a little better than others.

So I set out on an adventure and spent some time getting the scoop from David and Sarah Winberry in Cedar Point, on their farm right in the heart of the Bogue Sound growing region.

This story began last summer when I picked up a mess’o melons from Ms. Sarah. (Harvested melons are typically available from around July to September.) It came full circle this spring, cruising in the golf cart around one of Mr. David’s freshly tilled patches where the flats of sprouted seedlings in the hothouses would soon hit the dirt after the first full moon in April. He grew his first melons at age 14 when his daddy gave him 2 acres of land to plant. Now he sows 12 acres annually, producing thousands of melons.

Some have speculated it to be the variety of watermelon planted that makes them so juicy and sweet. But as Mr. David tells me: “Nope, it’s not the watermelons. We grow all kinds, both seeded and seedless. It’s a combination of our sandy soil and the moist, humid salt air that makes Bogue Sound watermelons so sweet.”

Now I don’t think this has been scientifically proven in any way — but you can’t argue with farmers’ intuition, which they’ve honed over decades of growing and harvesting melons in the region.

CC06-tv.indd 28

“Our Bogue Sound watermelons should all have the official sticker on them. If you don’t see that sticker, it’s not a Bogue Sound watermelon,” Ms. Sarah explains.

“Long ago, they were shipped by railcars and freight boats up north,” Mr. David says. “There are a few broker-buyers that move them about, and still a seller or two that has some at the State Farmers’ Market in Raleigh. But now, most are sold by the local farms. We used to have right many folks who would come buy pickup truck loads to sell roadside, but most of them have passed on.”

Alan Willis, president of the Bogue Sound Watermelon Growers Association, says one acre can produce upwards of 2,500 melons per season. He grows 25 acres, while the Winberrys harvest 12. The number of growers has dwindled over the years, and now you can count the farms selling the succulent melons on two hands.

“Unfortunately, when the tobacco crops went away, so did much of the labor, so some of the long-time growers scaled back or don’t grow melons anymore,” Alan explains.

“That, along with our aging farmer population, has had an impact.”

But there are still plenty of Bogue Sound watermelons to be found on roadside stands and local markets in the region. So keep an eye out for the official sticker next time you’re down that way. Once you get a taste of the deep red, juicy and sweet watermelons grown around the sound, you will want to head east and load up every season!

Wendy Perry, a culinary adventurist and blogger, chats about goodness around NC on her blog at WendysHomeEconomics.com.

5/10/19 12:45 PM

e Watermelons Sweet ‘n’ Hot Watermelon Rind Pepper Relish Making pickles and relishes with the rind is simple and canning them yields tasty, year-round treats. Similar to chow chow, this relish adds a punch of flavor to greens, burgers, hot dogs and in egg or potato salad. Adjust jalapeño peppers to your personal heat level!

Watermelon and Blueberry Sunshine Granita North Carolina’s muggy, hot summers call for icy cold relief, and this granita, made with local watermelon and blueberries, is just fit’n for that. Make it in a flash and keep on hand for a backyard or beach cottage treat. Just add a shade tree and you’ll be all set. ¼ 1 ½ ½

cup sugar pint fresh NC blueberries a seedless watermelon (6–8 cups) cup orange juice Zest of 1 orange Optional: Half and half or whipping cream

Combine sugar and blueberries in a small bowl to sit while preparing granita.

Put watermelon pulp and juice into food processor. Whirl until puréed. Pour into a 13" x 9" dish* and stir in orange zest. Scatter with the sweetened blueberries.

Freeze for several hours. Once frozen, scrape up the ice with a fork or spoon. Find that shade tree and enjoy your icy cold watermelon treat.

Variation: If you like creamy frozen desserts, once you pour the granita into the pan, drizzle with half and half or whipping cream and gently swirl with a knife before freezing! *If a large dish doesn’t fit in your freezer, divide into two 8" x 8" dishes.

Yield: About 8 servings

Where to Buy Bogue Sound Watermelons Find a list of farms and roadside stands selling these watermelons at boguesoundwatermelons.com.

Look for the official sticker!

6 cups cubed watermelon rind 1 large sweet onion, cut into chunks 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into pieces 2 jalapeño peppers, split and seeded 1 teaspoon sea salt 1¾ cups sugar 1 teaspoon white pepper 1½ cups apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 2 tablespoons mustard seeds 2 tablespoons pickling spice, tied in cheesecloth Put rind, onion and peppers into food processor. Pulse until relish consistency. Pour into non-metallic container and toss with salt. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Drain in colander and rinse. Drain again, dabbing with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Put into a large heavy pot and stir in remaining ingredients. Bring just to a boil, then cut back to a simmer for about 15 minutes. Remove and discard cheesecloth with spices.

Store the relish in the refrigerator without processing for several weeks.

If planning to use later, ladle hot into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace. Place lids on jars and process for 10 minutes in a boiling water bath.

Take care when canning to avoid spoilage! More detailed canning guidelines can be found at freshpreserving.com.

Yield: About 3 pints

June 2019 | 29

CC06-tv.indd 29

5/10/19 4:13 PM

I Remember

Memories and photos from our readers

Tobacco Farm Days This is a picture of my dad, Willie Barnette, in his prized tobacco field in Zebulon. This picture was taken around 1945 by some man traveling around taking country pictures. He later mailed my dad a copy of the picture. He had expressed how beautiful dad’s tobacco was, saying it was the prettiest he had ever seen in all his country travels.

Dad was a sharecropper, and naturally, this was our family of four’s income. We did not have running water, bathrooms or even electric lights. Book Antone of Zebulon operated an appliance store. He told my dad he would wire the house for electrical if my dad would buy my mom an electric stove from him. Of course my mom was overjoyed to be able to bake biscuits (so good) in an electric

stove. As my brother became a teenager, he got a bicycle with baskets on it. He worked after school for Ronald Phillips’ grocery store, delivering groceries to help with our income.

My dad died in 1994 and mom in 1990. My brother and I now share many of our memories as we age together.

Twinkle Cole, Zebulon, a member of Wake Electric

Raiding the Pie Safe

Weekend at Nanny Hazel’s

The photo shows the home of my grandparents. I can recall the pleasant times there as a child, even without electricity to the house and outbuildings. My cousin had lived in the house until recently and some renovations had been made.

The soil was somewhat sandy and produced crops really well. Vegetables were grown in the garden and few trips were made to the grocery store for what couldn’t be grown. The method of travel was limited to a T-model Ford, as that was the vogue in those days.

Grandma seemed to know when we were coming for a visit. She had a number of pies made that were kept in a pie safe. We never asked, just raided the safe.

Breakfast was more than a full-course meal. We would have fried chicken, gravy, hot biscuits, stewed corn and homemade clabber cheese.

The well house cooled watermelons and homemade apple cider. The well was very shallow and water was pumped with a hand-operated pump. A railroad track ran close to the house and the train had a night schedule.

The whistle was blown wide open. I would awaken scared out of my wits!

Only memories are left as the buildings have recently been torn down, as well as homes nearby, for a Greensboro-Randolph County industrial megasite.

Spending the weekend at Nanny Hazel’s for the very first time was the most exciting childhood memory of my life.

I knew there would be new adventures and new places to explore just around the corner.

Upon arrival, the roaring sound of constant traffic zoomed by the house and the rumbling noise of a passenger train whistled in the distance, bringing new sounds to my ears as I listened with much excitement.

I made my way to Nanny Hazel’s bedroom, and on her big dresser, I found rainbow-colored necklaces and matching earbobs to play dress-up with. The musky scent of her Tabu perfume filled the room with magic.

Later I went outside in the big backyard and explored most of the day. Bright red, emerald green, butterscotch gold, and sunset orange shades filled the backyard with a kaleidoscope of colored leaves. The windchimes played solemn melodies as I listened to each tune echoing into silence from a gentle breeze.

By the time I went back inside, it was time for supper.

Hot buttered biscuits and crispy fried chicken never tasted so good. Soon it was bedtime. Feeling safe and secure underneath the heavy, warm blankets was all that it took to quickly fall asleep.

Teresa Rhyne McDonald, Bessemer City, a Rutherford EMC member

Margaret Anderson, Randleman

Send Us Your Memories We love sharing photos and memories dear to our readers. Submit your photo, plus roughly 200 words that describe it, online or by mail with a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want it returned (only one entry per household, per month). Include your name, mailing address, phone number or email address, and the name of your electric co-op. We retain reprint rights, and we’ll pay $50 for those we publish. Online: carolinacountry.com/contact U.S. Mail: I Remember, Carolina Country, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616

30 | carolinacountry.com

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Carolina Gardens

Harvest Tips

When are veggies ready for the table?

Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

With most summer vegetable gardens in full grow mode now, it is time to share some “tricks of the trade” on determining when it is best to pick various veggies.

These pointers can also be helpful to folks who don’t have gardens but go to pick-your-own farms. Frequenters to farmers’ markets will probably also find a few tips to “harvest” produce at their freshest.

Peppers. The typical bell pepper can be picked when it is either green or red. A red bell pepper is just riper than a green one and usually tastes slightly sweeter. It is usually best to harvest these peppers when they are about 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

■■ Bell

Carrots are normally ready when their orange crowns poke out above the soil line. For better storage, cut off all but about 2 inches of the fern tops after you pull carrots from the ground.

■■ Carrots.

Black Beauty eggplant

Standard varieties, such as “Black Beauty” and “Classic,” should have a shiny, dark purple color and be about 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Any eggplant that has been on the stem too long will lose its shine — this also applies to the newer, fancy-colored varieties such as “Neon” and “Ping Tung.”

■■ Eggplant.

Although they come in all sizes, standard cukes will, of course, be a deep green when mature.

However, if a cucumber starts to show a yellow tint, it is past ripe.

■■ Cucumbers.

Squash. Crook, straight-neck and zucchini squash should be picked when about 6 inches long.

Round patty pan varieties are in their prime around 4 to 5 inches in diameter.

■■ Summer

Come on — everybody knows what a ripe tomato looks like, right? Sometimes, however, ’maters are picked with a bit of green still showing. To turn the green to red and make them fully ripe, simply place picked tomatoes in a cozy area indoors. A sunny windowsill won’t do because ol’ Sol’s direct rays could redden the skin but not ripen the inside of the tomato.

Moderate warmth, not strong light, is the key to properly maturing a tomato.

■■ Tomatoes.

Better tasting (and less slimy) okra pods are normally 2 to 3 inches long. Chef’s Tip: For little or no slime, leave the pods whole when boiling okra.

■■ Okra.

Beans. These beans are at their best when they are about 3 to 6 inches long. At these sizes, the seeds haven’t started to swell yet, and the pods are tender enough to snap easily.

■■ Green

L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine.

Contact L.A. at lajackson1@gmail.com.

Garden To-Do’s for June

Orange daylily

The ubiquitous orange-flowering daylilies lighting up roadsides this month are, for the most part, Hemerocallis fulva, an Asian species introduced long ago for use as a garden ornamental and erosion control. Commonly known as orange daylily, tawny daylily or, unflatteringly, ditch lily, this fast-spreading plant has become naturalized in 42 states — in some locations, to the point of being invasive. So, think twice about adding this daylily to your landscape because, unless the rapidly increasing rhizomes are frequently divided, it can become a bully with nearby plants.

FF

When irrigating plants, water thoroughly and deeply every five to six days to encourage roots to penetrate deep into the soil where soil moisture is more constant.

FF

This Father’s Day, do something different and plant a specimen tree or shrub in his honor.

FF

If you want to spot-spray weeds and not worry about drift to favored plants, cut the bottom out of an empty two- or three-liter plastic soda bottle, place the slit end over the offending weeds, spritz herbicide into the narrow top opening, let the spray settle and then move on to other unwanted plants.

32 | carolinacountry.com

CC06-tv.indd 32

5/10/19 12:45 PM

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5/10/19 3:12 PM

Promoting Culture, Pride, Unity and Community

2018-2019 Lumbee Ambassadors

51st

Annual Lumbee Homecoming June 28th - July 6th, 2019 – Pembroke, North Carolina Saturday, June 29 EVENT Golf Tournament – Pinecrest Country Club Registration 7:30-8:30 am – Tee Off 9:00 am; Lunch 12:00 Lumbee Outdoor Market – Monday – Saturday – 9:00 am. Until James Hardin

Saturday, July 6

EVENTS Lumbee Outdoor Market (Monday-Saturday) Welcome 9:00 am (Food, Arts, or Crafts) – 636 Prospect Road to the 5K Run/Fun Walk (Kiwanis) 51st Lumbee Homecoming Southeastern Fitness Center – Registration 5:45 am - 6:20 am 2019 Race starts at 6:30 am Car Show – 8:00 am - 3:00 pm – 636 Prospect Road – UNCP Campus Parade – 10:00 am – Line up Jones Street Sponsor: AISES Pow-wow – 12:00 noon – UNCP Quad Lumbee Regional Development Association Outdoor Gospel Concert – 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm – LRDA Office Major Partners: Complex University of NC at Pembroke Lumbee Fireworks Sky Show – 9:00 pm Town of Pembroke LRDA Office Complex Lumbee Tribe of NC Executive Director

Host Hotel: Holiday Inn Express, Pembroke, NC

CC06-wk.indd 34

For all events go to:

www.lumbeehomecoming.com 910-521-8602

5/10/19 3:12 PM

Carolina Compass

Billy Ray Cyrus

Liberty Mountain

Country tunes June 14, Franklin 866-273-4615 greatmountainmusic.com

Play about Revolution June 28–July 21, Kings Mountain 704-692-2897 libertymountaindrama.com jimchampion@carolina.rr.com

Book Sale Includes DVDs, puzzles June 15–20, Brevard 828-885-5311 brevard-nc.aauw.net

Art in the Park Shuttle, crafts June 15, Blowing Rock 828-295-7851 blowingrock.com

RiddleFest Old-time music June 22, Burnsville

Amantha Mill Summer Concert Series June 15, Todd 828-263-6173 toddnc.org

June Events Saddlebred Horse Show

MOUNTAINS

Various classes, divisions June 6–9, Blowing Rock 828-295-4700 brchs.org

Rummage Sale Benefit for scholarships May 30–June 1, Blowing Rock brwwomensclub@aol.com

Forks and Corks

Antique Tractor & Engine Show Machine pull, food vendors May 31–June 1, Waynesville 828-593-8327 olesmokytractorclub.com

Food, beverage samples June 6, Murphy 828-837-2242 cherokeecountychamber.com

John King Live Music on Main series June 7, Sparta 336-372-5473 bit.ly/fb-sparta0607

Liver Mush Festival Music, pig calling contest June 1, Marion 828-652-2215 discovermarionnc.com

Music on Main Street On Friday nights June 7–28, Hendersonville 800-828-4244 visithendersonvillenc.org

Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Hillbilly rock, gospel June 1, Franklin 828-524-1598 greatmountainmusic.com

Cherry Bounce Festival June 14–15, Forest City 828-245-0365 bit.ly/fb-cherrybounce19

Art in the Hall Paintings by Uni4Artists June 3–July 21, Morganton 828-438-5362 bit.ly/art-in-the-hall2019

Arts and Crafts Show Food, entertainment June 15, Dillsboro 828-586-1439 discoverjacksonnc.com

Summer Gemboree Gems, fossils, jewelry June 21–23, Gastonia machine66man@gmail.com facebook.com/groups/gastongems

RiddleFest Old-time music June 22, Burnsville 828-682-9654 traditionalvoicesgroup.com

Mile of Flowers Gardens tour, tea June 28, Blowing Rock 828-295-0901 blowingrock.com

Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone June 28, Franklin 866-273-4615 greatmountainmusic.com

The Lucky Strikes Summer Concert Series June 29, Todd 828-263-6173 toddnc.org

PIEDMONT Ava Gardner Festival Screening, heritage tour May 31–June 1, Smithfield 919-934-5830 avagardner.org

Gardens Tour Community fundraiser June 1–2, Lexington 336-731-1427 davidson.ces.ncsu.edu

Arts and Ag Farm Tour Music, blacksmithing June 1–2, Salisbury 704-216-8970 rowanartsandag.com

The Battle That Saved Washington Reenactors, music June 1–2, Huntersville 704-875-2312 lattaplantation.org

NC Weekend Pottery Tour Kiln openings, food truck June 1–2, Seagrove 910-464-3266 seagrovewoodfire.com

The Entertainers Summer Concert Series June 2, Asheboro 336-626-1277 ci.asheboro.nc.us

Southern Fried Poetry Slam Word, performance tournaments June 4–8, Fayetteville southernfriedpoetryslam.com

carolinacountry.com/calendar

See more events online with photos, descriptions, maps and directions.

MOUNTAINS

77

PIEDMONT

Listing Deadlines: Submit Listings Online: For Aug.: June 25 For Sept.: July 25

95

carolina­country.com/calendar (No email or U.S. Mail.)

COAST

The Battle That Saved Washington Reenactors, music June 1–2, Huntersville

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Carolina Compass

Dingbatter’s Guide to Ocracoke

Wild Honey

Comedy skits June 5–27, Ocracoke Island 252-921-0260 ocracokealive.org

Sounds by the Sound Concert June 14, Cape Carteret 252-227-5459 bit.ly/fb-wildhoney0614

Concert on the Common

Plein Air Festival

June 5, Greenville 252-329-4567 greenvillenc.gov

Food, kids’ paint-out June 14–15, Southport 301-741-6698 upyourarts.org

The Tim Clark Band Concert & movie series June 6, Shallotte 910-754-4302 townofshallotte.org

Summer Festival Bands, fireworks June 7–8, Washington

Summer Festival

West Martin School Celebration

Ocrafolk Festival

Nazi POWs in NC

Music, storytelling June 7–9, Ocracoke Island 252-921-0260 ocracokealive.org

Wartime lecture June 18, Southport 910-477-5151 ncmaritimemuseumsouthport.com

Maritime Day

Figure 8 Championship Racing

Food trucks, music June 8, Beaufort 252-504-7740 ncmaritimemuseumbeaufort.com

June 21, Newport 252-223-4019 newportfleamall.com

Thursday evenings, May 30–June 27 Ocracoke Island 252-921-0260 ocracokealive.org

Emerald City Big Band Sunday in the Park June 9, Greenville 252-329-4567

Veterans, costumed collectors June 21–22, Wilmington 910-399-9100 battleshipnc.com

Nunsense

The Trolls

Demo Derby

Concerts & movie series June 13, Shallotte 910-754-4302 townofshallotte.org

June 22, Newport 252-223-4019 newportfleamall.com

Annie

Concerts & Movies Series June 27, Shallotte 910-754-4302 townofshallotte.org

Citizen Lane

New choreography June 4–9, Durham 919-680-2787 dpacnc.com

Film about art collector June 17, Durham nationalhumanitiescenter.org

Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show

Barbecue cook off, vendors, music June 21–22, Henrico 252-586-5711 bit.ly/lizard-creek-jam

Fly-In, Cruise-in, Ride-in June 8, Asheboro 336-625-0170 ncaviationmuseumhalloffame.com

Blues-n-Brews Festival Music, food, games June 8, Fayetteville 910-323-4233 cfrt.org

Food Truck Championship Music, kids activities June 14–15, Randleman 336-495-7525 cityofrandleman.com

Sappony 5K Trail Run Rolling, scenic terrain June 15, Roxboro sapponytrailrun.org

Ladies Night Out Tour Dru Hill, Silk June 15, Fayetteville 910-438-4100 crowncomplexnc.com

Saving Species Across North America Learn about conservation June 15, Asheboro 336-879-7201 nczoo.org

Phatt City Summer Concert Series June 16, Asheboro 336-626-1277 ci.asheboro.nc.us

Music, dancing June 14, Greenville 252-561-8400 visitgreenvillenc.com

Bands, fireworks June 7–8, Washington 252-946-9168 wbcchamber.com/our-events/ summer-festival

Cats

June 7–9, Raleigh 804-642-2011 treasuresoftheearth.com

Greenville Grooves

Lizard Creek Jam & BBQ Battle

COAST Molasses Creek Concerts

Play about a variety show May 31–June 2, Oriental 252-571-5883 oldtheater.org

Kayak for the Warriors Kayak/paddle board race June 1, Pine Knoll Shores 252-247-4353 k4tw.org

Classic musical June 13–16, Lumberton 910-738-4339 carolinaciviccenter.com

Historic African American site June 15, Oak City 252-798-9622 westmartincc@gmail.com

Ships Named North Carolina

Boss Baby

River Roving Educational boat tours Wednesday through Saturdays Washington 252-948-0000 partnershipforthesounds.net

Know Before You Go

In case something changes after Carolina Country goes to press, check information from the contact listed.

March for Babies Three-mile fundraiser June 1, Greenville marchforbabies.org

Heritage Farm Fest Demos, wagon rides June 1, Edenton 252-489-0349 facebook.com/heritage.association1

Tar River Community Band Sunday in the Park Series June 2, Greenville 252-329-4567 bit.ly/greenville-park0602

There are more than 250 farmers markets in North Carolina, and some stay open year-round. For one near you, visit bit.ly/NCfarmmarkets.

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Community Among the Pines

A camping club served by Haywood EMC has brought families together for decades

By Edie Burnette | Photo by Roberta Carmichael

In Haywood County there is a unique, quiet collection of well-kept, privately owned campers edged by Pisgah National Forest and Shining Rock Wilderness. East Fork of Pigeon River and Schoolhouse Creek both flow through the property.

Camping structures line two lanes in the neighborhood.

The music of water flowing swiftly over rocks and boulders is a pleasing backdrop to added decks and porches, ideal places to visit with friends, eat a meal, read a book or take a nap.

Welcome to the Pisgah Camping Club.

At an elevation of 3,200 feet, six of 10 acres have been developed into 23 camping sites and a clubhouse, while four acres remain natural forest.

Current owners — club members — reside in North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee, and represent a variety of professions, including retired military personnel, law enforcement, teachers and employees of the Canton paper mill.

Member Joan Novelli declares the camp has changed her life for the better as a getaway with less pressure and a slower pace. “These folks have become my extended family,” she says.

A storied past

The club got its start 55 years ago, when local families who liked to camp organized as Pisgah Camping Club, meeting periodically to choose public campgrounds and specific dates to enjoy vacations together. In 1967, the Little East Fork road property was purchased as a permanent site. And in the early ’70s, members shared costs and innumerable manpower hours to build a clubhouse with full kitchen, restroom facilities, seating for 50, a heating system and large rock fireplace.

Participating families have changed over the years, but the club still operates on the principals of its founders: a family-oriented club with no alcoholic beverages consumed in public on club property, according to member Del Carmichael. Membership is by invitation only,

and applicants go through a screening process.

Del, who currently lives in Tennessee, lived in Florida when he applied for membership and laughs that he barely squeaked through the vetting process. (He had been told that an early member declared “not no Florida people.”)

Connected to community

Picturesque Laurel Grove Baptist Church, also known in its infancy as Laurel Grove School, occupies an adjacent lot. Church members can attend special gatherings and are granted use of the clubhouse for baby or bridal showers and the like. And close neighbors, many living on land owned by their families for generations, visit occasionally and are considered honorary members. The members also organize efforts to give back to the community where they can.

“This (site) is not just about camping,” says Gary Wooten of Canton, a nine-year member.

“Over the years, the club has responded to various community needs, collecting ‘love offerings’ for individuals in need of a small amount of financial support,” says member Vickie Holcomb. “We financially supported a member’s tutoring efforts at a school where she volunteered, and helped provide clothing, necessary everyday items and Christmas gifts for a young man.”

Warmer months always draw members back, but the campground is open year-round. When snow comes, Haywood County clears the state-owned road within a few hours.

“We want members to feel comfortable in staying here,” says head trustee Bob Holcomb, “at any time during the year.”

Edie Burnette, author of "Mountain Echoes" and a Canton native, is a graduate of Wake Forest University, retired teacher and former Asheville Citizen-Times reporter. She is currently a freelance journalist.

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“CAROLINA COUNTRY REFLECTIONS” More than 200 photographs showing life in rural North Carolina before 1970. Each picture has a story. Hardcover, coffee table book, 160 pages. Only $15 (includes tax and shipping).

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The N.C. Association of Electric Cooperatives and its member cooperatives do not endorse the services and products advertised. Readers are advised to understand fully any agreement or purchase they make. To place a classified ad: carolinacountry.com/classifieds

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Carolina Kitchen

Farro Salad Farro is a wheat grain popular in Italy, with a chewy texture that’s perfect for a make-ahead side dish with substance. Add crumbled feta cheese to make this salad into a great light lunch. Find farro in supermarkets near rice and other grains.

1 ½ ½ 5 1 1 ½ ½ 1½ ½ ¼ 2

cup farro cup apple juice or apple cider cup chicken broth tablespoons olive oil tablespoon apple cider vinegar tablespoon lemon juice teaspoon salt or to taste teaspoon pepper or to taste cups shredded fresh spinach cup chopped radishes cup chopped apple (unpeeled) green onions, chopped

Place the farro, apple juice or cider, and chicken broth, plus 1 cup water, in a large saucepan.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and cover. Cook 20 to 25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed (uncover for the last few minutes if necessary). The farro should have a chewy, not mushy, texture. Put the farro in a large bowl and let cool to room temperature, fluffing occasionally.

Put the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl and whisk until combined.

When the farro is cool, add the spinach, radishes, apple, onions and olive oil mixture, tossing to combine.

Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature before serving.

Yield: 4 servings

Crunchy Oven-Fried Chicken Like fried chicken, this dish is good hot or cold. Bonus: Unlike fried chicken, you won’t cover the kitchen in grease making it. You can substitute chicken breasts, but using bone-in, not boneless, works best.

2 eggs, beaten 2 cups panko bread crumbs 2½ teaspoons marjoram or oregano ½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon onion powder 1½ teaspoons thyme 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 8 bone-in chicken thighs Spray a large baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Put the eggs in a shallow pie pan. In a large bowl, combine the panko, marjoram or oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt and black pepper. Pour the panko mixture onto another pie pan.

Dip the chicken thighs in the egg, then roll them in the panko mixture, gently pressing to help it adhere to the meat. Place the chicken, skin side up, on the baking pan.

Bake for 40 minutes or until juices run clear when you prick the chicken with a sharp knife. Serve hot or at room temperature, or refrigerate to have the next day.

Yield: 4 servings

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Carolina Kitchen

From Your Kitchen

Cobbler Pie

Fresh Herb Deviled Eggs Lunches, picnics, family reunions — deviled eggs make themselves at home everywhere. Be sure the butter is soft so it will blend with the other ingredients. Try fresh dill instead of parsley for a flavorful variation.

6 large eggs 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (or more depending on the texture you prefer) 2½ teaspoons finely chopped chives

1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste Capers, drained and patted dry, or parsley leaves for garnish

Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Put the pan on high heat and bring to a boil, then cover the pan, remove it from the heat, and let sit for 15 minutes. When the time is up, immediately drain and rinse the eggs under cold running water to cool.

Peel the eggs, then cut them in half and put the yolks in a medium-sized bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork, then stir in the butter, mayonnaise, herbs, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Fill the egg whites evenly with the mixture (You can use an icing bag with a star tip to pipe the mixture if you want to be fancy, or even a plastic bag with a small hole cut in the corner will work.). Garnish each egg half with two or three capers or a parsley leaf.

Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to a day. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature before serving.

½ ½ ½ ½ 2

cup sugar cup self-rising flour* cup milk stick butter cups of your choice of fruit (see box below)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and melt butter in 8” round pan or pie plate as it warms. Combine sugar, flour and milk in a bowl, mixing in the melted butter. Pour back into pan.

Prepare the 2 cups of fruit as necessary — wash, peel, stem, seed, slice, and so on. Give it a taste and mix in some sugar or lemon juice as needed.

If your fruit is juicy or you’d like a more firmly set cobbler, mix in some cornstarch. Sprinkle the fruit over the batter mix.

Bake for 30–35 minutes. Place foil over the pan if it looks like the edges are browning more quickly than the center.

Serve with whipped cream and/or ice cream and garnish with mint leaves and/or raw fruit.

Yield: Serves 6

*Add ¾ teaspoon of baking powder to all‑purpose flour if you don't have self‑rising.

Yield: 12 halves

carolinacountry.com/recipes Search more than 800 recipes, with a new recipe featured every week!

Send Us Your Recipes

Unless otherwise noted, recipes on these pages are from Debbie Moose (debbiemoose.com), who has authored seven cookbooks and is a former food editor for The News & Observer in Raleigh.

Contributors whose recipes are published will receive $25. We retain reprint rights for all submissions.

Recipes submitted are not necessarily entirely original. Include your name, address, phone number (for questions), and the name of your electric cooperative. Mail to: Carolina Country Kitchen, P.O. Box 27306, Raleigh, NC, 27611. Or submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe.

Recipe courtesy of Kathy Hoover of Troy, a member of Randolph EMC

Got fruit?

Some fruit options include blackberries, blueberries, peaches, apples, cherries or raspberries (we used blueberries).

Optionally, you can sweeten your fruit with 1/8 cup sugar, ½ tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon cornstarch.

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where

in Carolina Country is this ?

Send your answer by June 6, with your name, address and the name of your electric cooperative.

Online:

carolinacountry.com/where

By mail: Where in Carolina Country?

P.O. Box 27306

Raleigh, NC 27611 Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified.

The winner, chosen at random and announced in our July issue, will receive $25.

May winner

The May “Where Is This” photo by Jane Penley features the Rich Mountain Baptist Church, on Howard’s Creek Road in Watauga County about 10 miles outside of Boone. The community surrounding the church is also known as Tarter Hill, according to reader Kenda Miller. Penley reports that the church was established and built in 1905 by her greatgrandfather, John Penley, who also served as its first ordained deacon. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Kelly Hollar of Zionville, a Blue Ridge Energy member.

Have a roadside gem you’d like to share? Submit a photo, plus a brief description and general location information, at carolinacountry.com/where.

scenes

CAROLINA COUNTRY

featured photo

Wonders of Water My three-year-old twin boys, Cotton and Dylan Brown, love playing in a creek and being outdoors in the country. The picture was taken at Pisgah Covered Bridge on Pisgah Covered Bridge Road in Randolph County.

Diana Brown, Seagrove A member of Randolph EMC

T

1

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The Featured Photo comes from those who scored an honorable mention from the judges in our 2019 photo contest (“Carolina Country Scenes,” January 2019). See even more Photos of the Week on our website carolinacountry.com.

5/10/19 3:12 PM

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ways to help Beat The Peak Summer heat and summer peak hours are ahead! Peaks occur when people are using the most electricity all at once. During those HOT summer afternoons, let’s all pitch in to reduce power use when peaks are anticipated. They usually occur between 2-7 p.m. on weekdays.

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1

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