2020-05-BRE

May 2020

IN THIS T GETHER

RELIEF FUND

COVID19

It’s a difficult time, but together we’re going to get through this.

Turn the page for some GOOD NEWS and more about this neighbor-helpingneighbor effort.

PERIODICAL

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GOOD NEWS! >>

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IN THIS T GETH ER R

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You can help: Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ Together to donate online.

Your electric cooperative is working to connect you with ways to help your neighbors and ways to receive help for crisis energy assistance.

You will soon be receiving capital credits from us.

As a member of a not-for-profit electric cooperative, money comes back to you, the member, in the form of capital credits. (See the member newsletter inside for details.)

During May, we’ll be returning $5.3 million in capital credits to Blue Ridge members. Those due a refund of $35 or more will receive a check in May. If you’re due a refund of less than $35, you will see a credit on your May bill.

You may need this money to meet your own needs or you may use it to help your neighbors. We’ve established the In This Together Relief Fund through the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation to provide crisis energy assistance to local members and customers. We have expanded funding amounts to unprecedented levels, while making it easier to receive support.

This presents an opportunity for you to donate all or part of your capital credits return or make a special donation of any amount to the Members Foundation.

Every penny goes directly to help neighbors in need.

Together, we’re going to make it through this.

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Call us at 1-800-451-5474 to make a donation.

Send a special donation by check (payable to Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation) to P.O. Box 112, Lenoir NC 28645.

How to apply for relief funds Designated local helping agencies will handle applications, determine eligibility for assistance and distribute funds. Members can find their local helping agencies at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Together or by calling us at 1-800-451-5474.

For more ways we’re helping, go to BlueRidgeEnergy.com/COVID19.

Since the beginning of COVID-19, Blue Ridge Energy has suspended disconnects, waived late fees, and offered special payment plans.

Learn more about relief for all NC residents and Gov. Roy Cooper’s Executive Order No. 124 at Governor.NC.gov.

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May 2020

Retiring in NC for

Easy Livin’ page 8

Published by

Watch for COVID-19 scams page 7

Make yours a ‘smart energy’ home page 22

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge Energy offers 24-hour automated service options—pages 17–20 May covers.indd 3

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familiar with the condition. As many as 25% of those over the age of 50 have some degree of macular degeneration.

The macula is only one small part of the retina, however it is the most sensitive and gives us sharp central vision. When it degenerates, macular degeneration leaves a blind spot right in the center of to recognize faces, read a book, or pass the driver’s vision test.

Nine out of 10 people who have macular degeneration have the dry form. or many patients with macular New research suggests vitamins can degeneration and other visionhelp.

The British medical journal BMC related conditions, the loss of Ophthalmology recently reported that central visual detail also signals the end to one of the last bastions of independence - driving.

A Wilmington optometrist, Dr. Edward Paul, is using miniaturized telescopes which are mounted in glasses to help people who have lost vision from macular degeneration and other eye conditions.

“Some of my patients consider me the last stop for people who have vision loss” said Dr. Paul, one of only a few doctors in

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telescopes to help those who have lost vision due to macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other debilitating eye diseases.

Imagine a pair of glasses that can improve your vision enough to change your life. If you’re a low vision patient, you’ve probably not only imagined them, but have been searching for them. Bioptic telescopes may be the breakthrough in optical technology that will give you the independence you’ve been looking for. Patients with vision in the 20/200 range can many times be improved to 20/50.

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and vision loss in people over 50. Despite this, most adults are not

A scene as it might be viewed by a person with age-related macular degeneration

56% of patients treated with a high-dose combination of vitamins experienced improved vision after six months.

TOZAL Comprehensive Eye Health Formula is now available by prescription from eye doctors. risk factor for developing the disease, heredity, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure have also degeneration accounts for 90% of new legal blindness in the US. While there is currently no cure, promising research is being done on many fronts. “My job

possible to keep a person functioning” says Dr. Paul. Even if it’s driving.

Doreen Jenkins, 72, of Pocahontas, friend. She wanted to keep her Iowa drivers license and was prescribed bioptic tele lights farther away. Dr. Paul also prescribed microscope glasses for reading newspapers and menus in restaurants.

As Doreen puts it, “my regular glasses didn’t help too much- it was like look ing through a fog. These new telescopic glasses not only allow me to read signs from a farther distance, but makes driving much easier. I’ve also used them to watch television so I don’t have to sit so close. I don’t know why I waited three years to do this; I should have come sooner.”

“Bioptic telescopes can cost over $2,000,” says Dr. Paul, “especially if we build them with an automatic sunglass.” scope is that the lens automatically focuses on whatever you’re looking at,” said Dr. Paul. “It’s like an self-focusing camera, but much more precise.”

To learn more about bioptic telescopes or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul, give us a call at 1-910-208-9011. You can also visit our website at:

www.DrEdwardPaul.com For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul, call us today: (910) 208-9011 and Charlotte

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Volume 52, No. 5

Surry County Tourism-Sam Dean

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4 Viewpoints 6 More Power 22 Energy Sense

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24 Tar Heel Tidbits 26 Adventures

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31 Classifieds

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30 Marketplace

31 Carolina’s Finest Voting 32 Carolina Kitchen 34 Where is This?

34 Carolina Music

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Where the Livin’ is Easy

Whatever your idea of retirement may be, one of NC’s Certified Retirement Communities will likely fit the bill.

Lady Bug Invasions

Is your home frequented by swarms of ladybugs? You’re not alone.

The Compassionate Collector Rodney Privette's hobby honors American heroes.

On the Cover A couple enjoys a treat in the small historic town of Gold Hill near the retirement community of Salisbury. Read about this and NC’s 15 other certified retirement communities on page 8. Photo courtesy of Surry County Tourism/Sam Dean.

A co sma loc Rea cert on Sur

Where is Carolina Compass?

This month, we did not include our typical events listings due to widespread cancellations resulting from COVID-19. We look forward to resuming events listings when appropriate.

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Viewpoints

Here for You in Uncertain Times

By Jeff Clark

I

f someone had approached you in January and said that in the near future you would be spending weeks under guidance to stay at home, local businesses would be shuttered and travel ground to a halt, would you have believed them? I know I would not have. But the unbelievable has become our shared reality. Every community in North Carolina has been touched by the COVID-19 pandemic.

We’ll no doubt feel its effects for a long time to come, in ways we have not yet even anticipated.

It’s often amidst unprecedented change that it becomes apparent what we can truly count on. We can take comfort in things that remain the same, such as the strength of families and doing whatever it takes to keep loved ones healthy. We can take comfort in our first responders and medical professionals, selflessly putting the welfare of others ahead of their own well-being. We can take comfort in our local businesses, adapting to serve community needs however they can. And you can take comfort in your electric cooperative, keeping the lights on and supporting members and communities, no matter what may be bearing down on us.

Electric service is not optional. Like a sufficient supply of food and water, reliable electricity is critical, especially in times like this — both to ensure your health and safety, and to simply maintain some sense of normalcy as we are requested to stay in our homes.

Despite all the uncertainties of these times, you can be certain that your electric co-op is working around the clock to ensure power is delivered with a focus on community, affordability, reliability and safety as our ongoing, top priorities.

Community Electric cooperatives in North Carolina are supporting members and taking proactive actions to respond to impacts from the coronavirus in their communities. Because we are a part of your community, we are working with members, employees and local organizations to meet local needs.

These measures include creating internet hotspots to make online learning accessible to students, making donations to food banks and other charitable organizations, donating supplies to medical providers, sharing learning resources for parents and students to utilize while schools are closed, and much more.

Affordability Nonprofit electric co-ops are locally owned and operated, charged with keeping costs low for our members. This charge is especially important in times like these, when unemployment is soaring and budgets may be stretched thinner than ever.

We recognize that there will be an economic impact on all of us. Because of this, cooperatives are working directly with members to ease financial hardships. Know that whatever your financial situation, your electric co-op has several programs in place to make managing your energy use and budget easier. Just give them a call.

Reliability There is some renewed comfort in this concept, with seemingly every day bringing life-altering developments.

But electric co-ops are geared for providing reliable service. In the early days of the outbreak, electric co-ops across the state adapted policies or enacted existing pandemic emergency

plans to protect employees while enabling them to maintain the same level of reliable service you have come to expect from us.

The North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), our generation and transmission cooperative that supplies NC electric co-ops with all or part of their power needs, is taking careful measures to ensure its workforce is healthy and its power plants are functioning as needed. NCEMC is also closely monitoring other sources of purchased power, ensuring those sources remain resilient and reliable if we needed to call on them.

Safety Keeping our employees and our members safe is always a top priority, but this pandemic has electric co-ops approaching it in a new way. Lobbies have been closed in favor of other, safer payment options such as online, over the phone or in some cases via drive-thru. Those co-op employees who can are working from home. For those who do need to work on-site or in the field, social distancing and a clean work environment are utmost priorities.

These are certainly unprecedented times for us all, but know that your electric cooperative is out there working diligently with you in mind.

Stay safe, and stay healthy. We will get through this together, the cooperative way.

Jeff Clark is CEO for Jones-Onslow EMC in Jacksonville and was recently seated as president of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives.

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THIS MONTH:

Good News & Glimmers of Hope We could all use some good news right about now. That’s why when I was contacted by Shari Richard about a special barn quilt she’d just hung, I couldn’t wait to share her story. Read about it below, and let us know what gives you hope in these trying times. We’ll share what we can in future issues and on social media. Visit carolinacountry.com/hope to submit, or mail submissions (with your name, address and name of your electric co-op) to: Carolina Country—Hope, 3400 Sumner Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27611.

—Scott Gates, editor

Meaningful Barn Quilt After I saw my first barn quilt, I knew I wanted one of my own. I researched a variety of different styles and techniques of how barn quilts were made. Since I have painted for years as well as sewn quilts, I knew I wanted to create something different, one to represent our whole family. I came across a cotton quilt block that I had made and knew that was the design I wanted to use.

After painting on and off for a little over a year, the barn quilt was finally finished! It was time for a frame and then to be put on our red barn. My dad, Bob, had the perfect wood for the frame, Burmese teak. Our son, Shane (a Rutherford EMC crew leader), was able to hang and fasten the finished quilt on our family barn on March 27.

What a great day that was for us all, as we now could enjoy this barn quilt as a family. Hopefully during this time of chaos in our world, others may see our quilt, smile, and realize that good things still happen during trying times.

Shari Richard, Crouse, A member of Rutherford EMC

Music Therapy Advocate Music therapy is a well-established allied health profession that continues to grow, and provides both the medical use of music to treat symptoms of a condition and social stimulation. It is an effective form of treatment that can benefit many, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and special needs patients. The current lack of state licensure for the profession makes it extremely difficult for patients to afford services, as many health insurance companies do not recognize or pay for services. It also makes it difficult to pursue a music therapy career in NC. The NC Music Therapy task force plans to speak with legislators about passing necessary state licensing bills this summer. To become involved with their cause and learn more about music therapy, please visit bit.ly/MTNCSR. Involvement with the task force may enable you to help patients receive critical music therapy services.

Jessie Lang, Wake Forest, A member of Wake Electric Read more from Jessie in our September 2018 issue, “Joyful Music and Dance at Silk Hope Farm Heritage Park.”

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

Raleigh, NC 27616

(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 Digital Media 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.

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.

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.

May 2020 | 5

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More Power

Accessible Innovation Stressed by NC Co-ops at National Meeting NRECA

Wynn addressed co-op leaders from the main stage.

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eaders from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives joined peers from around the country March 2–4 for the annual meeting of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

During his keynote address, National Board President and Roanoke Electric Cooperative CEO Curtis Wynn encouraged co-op leaders to develop and offer innovative solutions that are accessible to everyone.

“I want to make the case that, through well-planned and smart investments, we can make the next generation of electric cooperatives a reality for all of our members,” Wynn said. “It matters to the future of our co-ops.”

Wynn stressed the importance of working together across the co-op network, pointing to statewide

collaboration among North Carolina’s electric cooperatives as an example.

Via video, Joe Brannan, CEO of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, discussed innovative projects the state’s electric co-ops are taking on, including microgrids and community solar.

“Every state is different, but these partnerships exist across the nation,” Brannan said. “I encourage all of us to look for ways to work collaboratively — because as we work together, we are stronger.”

In addition to Wynn and Brannan’s time on the main stage, several employees from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives served as subject matter experts in breakout sessions: Don Bowman of Wake Electric, who discussed member engagement and beneficial electrification; Diane Huis of North Carolina’s Electric

Cooperatives, who discussed applications for beneficial electrification; and Thomas Golden of EnergyUnited, who discussed digitization as it affects co-op management.

At the TechAdvantage Conference, held in conjunction with the annual meeting, speakers from NC co-ops included: Laura Ertle of Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative and Evan Fitzgerald of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, who discussed electric vehicle charging infrastructure; Tanner Greer of Blue Ridge Energy, who discussed planning for technological change; and Chris VanLokeren of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, who discussed managing “big data.”

The 2020 NRECA Annual Meeting in New Orleans was the last national electric co-op event to be held before the spread of the coronavirus began limiting large gatherings. See below for more information.

Industry events canceled At the time of publication, several electric co-op events originally scheduled through the spring have been postponed or canceled, including the annual meeting of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives in Raleigh. Associated board meetings will be conducted remotely.

The Electrification 2020 conference, hosted by the Electric Power Research Institute and reported on in our March issue, has been postponed until early 2021.

YLC Delegate Sees Opportunity for Collaboration Karis Dean, a 2019 youth tour participant sponsored by Piedmont Electric, was selected by fellow Youth Tourists to represent our state on NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council (YLC).

One student from each state was selected to participate in a national leadership workshop and attend the 2020 NRECA Annual Meeting.

One takeaway Dean shared from her experience is how easy it could be to collaborate with people on different sides of an issue.

“In the current political environment, there’s a divide. There’s a

desire to work together, but there aren’t many taking the next step to collaborate,” Dean said.

She recalled one instance when Youth Tour participants were in congress watching two representatives debate an agriculture bill.

“They were frustrated and upset.

There was tension,” she recalls. “And then one made a concession. And they actually began to reach a compromise — you saw that there was this ability to make a compromise. It’s a good message to send to students.”

Dean (right) discussed the Co-ops Vote program with meeting attendees.

Dean is a 2019 graduate from Chapel Hill High School and is currently studying economics at NC State University.

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Watch Out for These Coronavirus Scams Sadly, even in difficult times there are always those who will look to take advantage of others. The COVID-19 pandemic is no exception, and scammers are already at work. First, know that your electric cooperative will never call or visit your home to take payment or other personal information.

Here are more tips from the Federal Trade Commission to help you keep the scammers at bay:

respond to texts and emails about relief checks from the government.

■ Don’t

■ Watch

for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or other “experts” saying they have information about the virus. Visit cdc.gov or who.int for the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus.

up on robocalls. Don’t press any numbers.

Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam Coronavirus treatments to work-athome schemes.

■ Do your homework when it comes to donations,

information. Scammers, and sometimes well-meaning people, share information that hasn’t been verified. Before you pass on any messages, contact trusted sources. Visit usa.gov/coronavirus for links to federal, state and local government agencies.

■ Ignore

■ Hang

■ Fact-check

who you’re buying from. Online sellers may claim to have in-demand products, like cleaning, household, and health and medical supplies, when, in fact, they don’t.

■ Know

whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.

online offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Visit fda.gov for the latest information on testing from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

■ Don’t

click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.

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4/9/20 11:28 AM

Look in your own backyard for a place to retire and stay active

By Renee Gannon

For years, Florida seemed to be the retirement dream mecca.

But that has changed, and North Carolina is now one of the top spots for the 55-plus crowd looking for a new place to call home. In 2018, NC gained the third-most retirees of any state, according to a SmartAsset study.

In 2008, the NC General Assembly authorized the NC Department of Commerce to create the Certified Retirement Community (CRC) program as part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. The town of Lumberton served as the pilot CRC in the program, which now boasts 16 certified communities.

The state’s travel and tourism arm, VisitNC, became the program’s administrator in 2013. After all, visiting an area for leisure is often the first step toward choosing where to retire.

“North Carolina is experiencing a healthy in-migration of retirees to the state, and this program aims to attract retirees and persuade them to put down roots here,“ says Wit Tuttell, executive director of the Commerce Department’s Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development.

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The CRC program, also known as RetireNC (retirenc.com), also helps the state hold onto its own retirees by showcasing communities they may see as desirable. A move just a few hours away can keep them closer to family or preferred, familiar spots. These communities are recognized for providing amenities and services for active and productive lifestyles, including volunteer and work opportunities, as well as leisure.

“It’s ultimately about recruiting new residents to our city,” says Judy Yarborough, city marketer for Reidsville. “We target 55-plus active retirees that may still want to work, but are downsizing for retirement.

They are moving to areas and opening new businesses, volunteering, teaching classes and are becoming assets to our community.”

Whatever your idea of retirement may be, one of the 16 certified communities will likely fit the bill.

Worthwhile Certification

The Retire NC certification process is comprehensive, and a community must be prepared for the application criteria. These include being within 50 miles of a major medical facility and providing an assessment of crime rate, healthcare, housing, technology, local economy, cultural and recreational opportunities, retirement services and continuing education programs.

But as many certified communities are discovering, the effort is worth it.

“When visitors are also looking for a place to retire, the certification emphasizes that we have the amenities they are looking for,” explains Catherine Glover of the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce “The program has also been geared toward smaller communities, and that helps counties like ours that are more rural.”

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Johnston County became the first county to earn the certification. Located along I-95 and I-40, just east of Raleigh, the county offers five 55-plus retirement communities, along with golf courses and riverfront living. Cultural attractions include Smithfield’s Ava Gardner museum, the Rudy Theatre in Selma, Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, shopping at the Carolina Outlets, exploring the Neuse River greenway, Howell Woods and Clemmons Forest and visiting downtowns such as Clayton and Benson.

Edenton

Situated at the elbow of the Chowan River and the Albemarle Sound in northeastern NC, Edenton offers a low cost of living, historic homes and cultural opportunities in history, art and recreation. Edenton has a plethora of volunteer opportunities in historic sites, the arts community and social organizations. Its historic downtown houses restaurants, coffee shops, boutique stores and hardware stores. Arnold Palmer and Dan Maples golf courses are nearby.

Elizabeth City

Located in the northeastern corner of NC, Elizabeth City’s waterfront area along the Pasquotank River, “Harbor of Hospitality,” is a favorite among locals and visitors. The city boasts about its historic, art-centric downtown, the Museum of the Albemarle and live entertainment at the Maguire Theater. The area houses championship golf course living, recreational sailing, kayaking, fishing, biking, and is close to Outer Banks beaches and Norfolk, Virginia.

Jamestown & High Point Area

Located in the Piedmont, just south of Greensboro, with access to four major interstates, the area offers a small-town atmosphere with big city amenities. More than 40 parks, greenways, hiking trails, two recreational lakes and 10 golf courses are available to residents. Its Main Street corridor holds breweries, wine bars, restaurants, theater and the arts, even a baseball stadium for the High Point Rockers.

Laurinburg & Scotland County

Located on Highway 74 along the state’s southern border, between Charlotte and Wilmington, Laurinburg and Scotland County feature community-based economic

VisitNC.com/Sam Dean

Clayton & Johnston County

Kip Shaw Photography

Retire NC

Clayton

Edenton

Elizabeth City

development, cultural involvement, and recreational access such as the 147-mile bicycle route that links various points of interest throughout the county, including the Lumber River. The annual Storytelling Festival, the Scotland County Highland Games and the John Blue Cotton Festival are highlights of the area’s growing arts program.

Lenoir

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and located between Boone and Hickory, Lenoir in Caldwell County offers outdoor recreation, including the Lenoir Greenway, the Catawba River Valley and Wilson Creek. Outdoor sculptures are just one part of the arts scene. The Caldwell Arts Council hosts a Sculpture Celebration every September, and local musicians are highlighted on the Blue Ridge Natural Heritage Music Trail. The historic downtown offers free Wi-Fi, unique boutiques, restaurants, microbreweries and a distillery on the Carolina Distillery Trail.

Lumberton

Lumberton in Robeson County set the tone for NC’s retirement communities as the first town to earn certification. Located on I-95 in southeastern NC, Lumberton offers a moderate climate, affordable housing, inexpensive cost of living and lower taxes. Arts, music, theatre and outdoor activities are within a short drive, especially paddling, boating and fishing in the Lumber River and area lakes. Easy access to Interstate 74 means a route to both the mountains and the coast.

Marion

Marion in McDowell County is “Where Main Street meets the Mountains.” The town, located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway between Highways 70 and 221, is known for creating citizen engagement and strong partnerships to help economic development. Low tax rates, lower-thannational average cost of living, and community resources that include an arts council and community theatre, as well as access to four state parks, have led residents to call this small town home. Asheville, Morganton, Hickory and Boone are also just a short drive away.

Mount Airy

Mount Airy is more than just Mayberry. While it encompasses the small-town charm of Sheriff Andy’s home in May 2020 | 9

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New Bern

The 300-year-old city of New Bern is located where the Neuse and Trinity Rivers meet on the central coast of NC. Its historic residential and business districts and its downtown area offer both a look into the area’s past as well as a look at the modern aspects of life. Residents enjoy the annual Spring Historic Homes and Gardens Tour, and arts and culture including two local theatre companies, as well as a growing downtown farmers market, the waterfront, and creeks and lakes that support an active lifestyle.

Reidsville

“Live Simply. Think Big.” That’s the motto for Reidsville, located in Rockingham County just north of Greensboro. Its low cost of living, small shops, restaurants, a farmers market and community arts in a historic downtown, as well as burgeoning volunteer opportunities throughout the community, has added to the town’s growing quality of life — not to mention access to outdoor activities at Lake Reidsville, 10 area golf courses, and nearby walking trails and greenways.

Roanoke Rapids

Located along the Roanoke River in northeastern NC, just below the Virginia border, Roanoke Rapids offers a slower pace of life. “Rushing river water can take the edge off rocks and people!” as a local saying goes. This area in Halifax County features Roanoke Rapids Lake, Lake Gaston, Medoc Mountain State Park, Sylvan Heights Bird Park and the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail. Historic Halifax offers a revolutionary education. The art scene includes Riverside Mill’s gallery of craft art, Lakeland Theatre Company and the Roanoke Rapids Theatre. The area offers a rural lifestyle that includes amenities of city living. carolinacountry.com/extras

Check out the online version of this article, which offers links for all 16 certified communities..

Reidsville

Justin Hime

northwest NC, the town has grown into its own as it offers a historic downtown, outings to Pilot Mountain State Park and paddles along the Yadkin River, local wineries and breweries and a growing arts scene, including the Mount Airy Fiddlers’ Convention. Mount Airy is located near the Virginia border and within two hours of major urban areas such as Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Charlotte.

Misty Felde Photography

Surry County Tourism

Mount Airy

Washington

Salisbury

Located in the Piedmont between Greensboro and Charlotte, Salisbury honors its past through historic preservation while growing within the modern world. The town’s mission is to be an inclusive community, recognizing that its residents come from various backgrounds and are generational. The city offers a wide range of cultural, recreational and volunteer opportunities, with three performance theatres, local shops, restaurants and breweries; outdoor activities such as High Rock Lake, greenways and six area golf courses.

Tarboro

This “front porch kind of town” has been welcoming people home for more than 250 years. Located in Edgecombe County in eastern NC along the Tar River, the downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places and its Town Common is one of only two original town commons remaining in the U.S. The year-round, mild-to-warm climate is ideal for walking and biking trails, river paddling and fishing. Tarboro offers affordable cost of living at a slower pace.

Washington & Beaufort County

Voted as one of America’s coolest small towns, Washington is a historic coastal destination, that when added to the other small towns in Beaufort County such as Bath, Belhaven, Chocowinity, Aurora and Pantego, creates a community full of history, art, locally owned shops, restaurants and outdoor activities that include golfing, paddling and boating.. While living a small-town life, residents also have big town amenities a short drive away in Greenville.

Winterville

Located just outside of the university city of Greenville in eastern NC, Winterville is a family town of less than 10,000 surrounded by urban amenities. Recently ranked as one of the 50 safest towns in the country, Winterville offers the best of both worlds. There are local shops and restaurants, and a close proximity to a growing arts scene. Outdoor activities include paddling along the Tar River. And every August, the town holds its annual Watermelon Festival.

Renee Gannon is senior associate editor for Carolina Country magazine.

10 | carolinacountry.com

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4/9/20 4:04 PM

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4/6/20 5:11 PM

Todd Warner

Todd Warner wants to know how to get rid of Asian lady beetles that have invaded his home.

Is your home frequented by swarms of ladybugs? You’re not alone.

By Donna Campbell Smith

odd Warner, who lives in central North Carolina, reached out to his Facebook friends for a solution to his ladybug invasion. They were getting into his historic home during one of February’s warm spells.

Todd got a lot of advice—from vacuuming them up and releasing them back outdoors, to hanging lemons in his windows to repel them. When I read the posts, I was dismayed to learn ladybugs were being considered a nuisance. I’ve always thought of them as friends to the gardener, gobbling up aphids and other unwanted vegetable-eating insects. But when another Carolina Country reader, a Union Power Cooperative member from Ridgefield, called the magazine about a similar problem, it was time to get to the bottom of this ladybug conundrum.

First, I must get my terminology right.

The ladybug that folks are concerned about is not our native red-with-black-spots ladybug longheld in high esteem and featured in children’s literature. Even this home-grown ladybug is properly named lady beetle . There is a difference, I learned, between a bug and a beetle. The swarming beetles Todd and many other homeowners want gone are another beetle altogether. This orangewith-black-to-brownish-spots beetle is native to Asia. The Multicolored Asian lady beetle was first introduced in the 1920s to the Southeast and Washington State by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to control aphids, which is a favorite food of the beetles. They apparently didn’t do well in the United States, as none were to be found within a few years. Then, decades later, they began to show up in Louisiana. Apparently, they were accidently re-introduced via a freighter in a New Orleans port. They made their way to North Carolina by 1992. And, as intended, they have been an asset for gardeners and farmers, happily doing the same job as their American cousins, the red-and-black lady beetle.

What makes the Asian variety a problem for some folks is their propensity to crawl through the tiniest cracks and crevasses and enter homes, attracted by the light indoors.

They can secrete a yellowish fluid that stains walls and furniture — yuck! They are also known to bite if handled, although it’s a mild bite.

There are four stages in the life cycle of the Asian lady beetle — egg, larva, pupa and adult. Eggs are laid in early spring on the underside of leaves. They hatch out in three to five days. The larva stage lasts about 12–14 days. During that time, they each eat dozens of aphids every day. Then pupa is formed, attached to leaves. The adult emerges from the pupa in five to six days. Adults spend the winter hibernating in protected places, like hollow logs or the walls of houses. Some adults live up to three years.

Martha Mobley, extension agent in Franklin County, advises vacuuming the beetles up and releasing them in the garden, as they are beneficial. Todd worries that when released, they will just come back inside. The good news is, in spring the beetles depart to find food and begin their life cycles anew.

The “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” credo is the best approach. Caulk outside cracks and crevices before the lady beetles start looking for places to over-winter. This has the added benefit of saving money on your energy costs.

Spraying with insecticide is not very effective and can be harmful to people and pets. Sweeping or vacuuming them away, as Martha suggested, is the most economic, effective and safe solution to getting rid of the beetles.

And for those who’d like to have some Asian lady beetles to protect their gardens from bad insects, they can be ordered from Amazon.com for about $12 for a few thousand.

Or maybe Todd will give you some at no charge.

Donna Campbell Smith is a Carolina Country contributing writer who lives in Franklin County.

12 | carolinacountry.com

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4/8/20 12:58 PM

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4/6/20 5:12 PM

Carolina People

The Compassionate Collector

Rodney Privette’s hobby honors American heroes

By Jason Devaney | Photos by Randy Berger

Rodney Privette stays busy with several jobs — he’s the Rolesville fire chief, the owner of an insurance company and a Wake Electric director — plus he enjoys a car hobby that dates back to when he was a kid.

Rodney, 64, particularly likes old cars — everything from pickups with wood panels on their sides to muscle cars with enough horsepower that they nearly give you whiplash when you stomp on the accelerator.

Over the years, and with the help of friends and other gearheads, Rodney has bought and restored countless vehicles made in the 1960s and ’70s.

He currently has seven sitting in the various garages on his property.

Many of them previously belonged to members of the U.S. military.

One car in particular has a special meaning: a 1965 Plymouth Barracuda that was once owned by a U.S. Army soldier who died in Vietnam. The restoration took seven years.

“The best we can figure, the guy didn’t come home [from Vietnam], the guy’s dad had to call [Fort Bragg] to get the car,” Rodney says. “It was years and years and years later when I bought it.”

“Every one I’ve bought, I’ve never

bought one right off the bat,” he says.

“I knew about the car before I got it, and when the time was right I was able to get it.”

People who can barely change a tire can still appreciate the beauty of the red Barracuda. All of its American-made parts are either original or sourced from other Barracudas. Seeing it in person makes you smile and gasp in awe at its curved lines and immaculate paint job.

Rodney said he paid a little more than $2,000 for the car and roughly 10 times that for the restoration — including $12,000 for the “hurtyour-eyes paint job,” as he calls it.

The car, which is worth well north of what Rodney put into it, bears the license plate “6 CUDA 5” in reference to its model year, and has won a half dozen trophies at car shows.

Rodney’s partner and Piedmont Electric employee Susan Cashion has learned about cars through osmosis. As an active member of

the community herself, Susan said she appreciates all that Rodney has done — serving as fire chief since 1992 and as a rank-and-file call fireman for Rolesville starting in 1975. That’s in addition to running the family business, Privette Insurance Agency, and serving on the Wake Electric Board of Directors. And then there are all the cars he’s restored that have belonged to U.S. military veterans.

“He is truly one of the most compassionate people I’ve ever met,” Susan says. He’s trying to preserve these wonderful vehicles and it was very touching with that Barracuda.”

“I’m now into cars,” she adds, noting that she appreciates “how passionate so many people are about preserving the past and caring for these beautiful automobiles and the stories that they each hold.”

When asked how often he drives his cars, Rodney says, “Not enough. If I ever retire I can drive them more.”

Rodney’s garages are full of not only cars but old signs from car companies, parts hanging on the wall, car show trophies, and even decades-old floor mats made from recycled tires. He has plans to turn one of the garages into a car museum.

Just another project that will occupy his time.

Jason Devaney has written about sports, politics and all things in between since 2000. He lives in Raleigh with his wife and daughter.

14 | carolinacountry.com

CC05-wk.indd 14

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4/6/20 5:12 PM

matters MEMBERSHIP

May 2020

Good news: Capital credits and In This Together COVID-19 Relief Fund At the time this newsletter was written in March, COVID-19 had begun creating difficult times for many in our local communities, state and nation. A • bright spot is that earlier this year, your cooperative’s Board of Directors approved a capital credits refund to members totaling over $5 million!

For many of you, the refund will be a much-needed source of income. For others, you may be fortunate enough to consider donating all or a part of your refund to Operation Round Up® and your Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation to help in our special campaign called “In This Together.” We created the special campaign to join together in raising funds to help local households severely impacted by the effects of COVID-19.

Every cent donated to this campaign goes directly to help local residents in need of crisis energy assistance.

Here’s how it works: •

Donations: Go online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ Together; call us at 1-800-451-5474; or drop a

Blue Ridge-0520.indd 17

check in the mail to: Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation, PO Box 112, Lenoir, NC 28645.

Assistance: Contact your local helping agency.

Up to $150 for electric and fuel bill assistance; up to $300 for those with unemployment issues.

Capital credits checks begin mailing in early May. Members qualifying for a $35 or more refund will be mailed a check separate from their electric bill. Those qualifying for less will see it as a credit to their electric account in May. Capital credits may present a unique and easy opportunity for you to donate to this special campaign. We are joining together with our members during this unprecedented time of need! Unlike a storm, the effects of COVID-19 will be longer lasting.

Your help is greatly appreciated.

If you are able, please consider making a donation.

We’re in this together!

4/8/20 3:52 PM

the

perspective From Blue Ridge Energy CEO Doug Johnson

In this together As I write this column in late-March, the COVID-19 isolation and closings have impacted all of us personally and economically. We here at Blue Ridge Energy realize the impact this is having on our members and customers, now and in the future.

These are unprecedented times. If ever a time has called for measures above and beyond normal, now is the time.

Many who’ve never had to ask for help before are struggling to provide basic necessities for their families. The magnitude of this need has certainly not yet been fully realized.

As a cooperative with roots deeply embedded in our local communities, we’re responding to this crisis. That’s why we’ve created the campaign “In this Together.” We’re mobilizing to distribute record-level crisis assistance funds from the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation, which is funded by Operation Round Up® donations as well as contributions from the profits of your Propane and Fuels and RidgeLink subsidiaries.

While I’m pleased to say your Foundation has several thousands of dollars to kick start the effort, we

MEMBERSHIP matters

Blue Ridge-0520.indd 18

don’t project that will be near enough to cover the enormous, long-term need resulting from COVID-19.

That’s why we’re inviting members who can to join us in raising crisis funds with your donation of any amount to the Members Foundation.

Whether you can donate $1, $10 or $100, your contribution will make a difference.

All funds will go directly to help local residents in need of crisis energy assistance.

As we issue capital credits returns this time of year, it may present a good opportunity for some members to donate to this special campaign. We know that many will find these funds critical to their needs right now. For others more fortunate, we invite you to join with us in making a donation of any amount using the options listed to the right.

In this Together!

Help local residents who need crisis energy funds!

Donate in one of the following ways today: • Go online to donate by check or credit card: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ Together • Mail your donation by check (payable to Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation) to PO Box 112, Lenoir, NC 28645 • Call us to make a donation by check, debit or credit card: 1-800-451-5474.

The cooperative difference is about joining together to help each other.

There’s never been a better time to join together. Help us answer the need today. After all, we’re all in this together!

Page 18

4/8/20 3:52 PM

r!

ho ds!

Since the beginning of COVID-19, Blue Ridge Energy has suspended disconnects, waived late fees and offered special payment plans. Learn more about relief for all NC residents and Gov. Roy Cooper’s Executive Order No. 124 at Governor.NC.gov.

Annual Membership Meeting plans underway

Director election kits coming late May At a cooperative, your Board of Directors is made up of members representing the entire membership.

Each year, Blue Ridge members vote on four open seats, one in each of the cooperative’s directorate districts.

With the current uncertainty regarding whether there will be Stay at Home Orders or a State of Emergency Declaration at the state or local level in June 2020, Blue Ridge is making plans for an alternative process to hold its 2020 Annual Meeting remotely. This will include a slightly modified process for voting by ballot during the Annual Meeting if a member has not already voted by proxy or wishes to change the prior proxy vote.

The Cooperative is planning for this remote option for the Annual Meeting to ensure compliance with all laws, government orders and government health recommendations for the protection of employees and members. As we deal with this level of uncertainty, the safest way to participate in this year’s director election process is to vote by proxy, using the director election kit that will be sent to members in late May, in advance of the Annual Meeting. Members can mail their proxy provided in that kit or go online to the website that will be listed in the kit.

e by d: om/

If an alternative process for holding the Annual Meeting is necessary, we will communicate how members may participate in the Annual Meeting in the June Carolina Country. The date and time for the 2020 Annual Meeting of Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation remains Thursday, June 25, 2020, at 4:00 PM, whether held in the traditional onsite meeting format at the Corporate office in Lenoir or through remote participation and special ballot collection procedures.

n by

Director election kits will be sent to members on May 27. Included will be:

on)

:

18

•

biographical information for all candidates

•

a proxy for members to vote in every district

•

instructions to vote online or by mail

•

a link to vote online if you opted to receive your director elections kit by email

If you receive the kit by regular mail, instructions are included for voting online or by returning the proxy provided in the kit. If voting by mail, the form must be signed by the member with their choices clearly marked and returned in the enclosed postage-paid envelope no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. To comply with proper election management procedures, the form cannot be given to an employee or accepted at any Blue Ridge office.

To ensure the integrity of director elections, Survey and Ballot Systems, an independent election administrator, was approved by the Credentials and Election Committee in December 2019 (committee members’ names are available at BlueRidgeEnergy.com). This committee is comprised of members from across the cooperative’s service area and is responsible for ensuring director elections are properly conducted, including certifying election results.

Look for more information on the cover wrap of this issue of Carolina Country, in your director election kit mailing late May and on our website at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

MEMBERSHIP matters

Blue Ridge-0520.indd 19

Page 19

4/8/20 3:52 PM

In order to minimize potential spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), we encourage you to utilize our online and by-phone services. #InThisTogether

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Doug Johnson

check out our

Automated service options

EDITOR

Renée R. Whitener

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Susan Simmons

DISTRICT OFFICES Caldwell Watauga Ashe Alleghany Wilkes PowerLine®

(828) 754-9071 (828) 264-8894 (336) 846-7138 (336) 372-4646 (800) 451-5474 (800) 448-2383

Toll Free

(800) 451-5474

(PowerLine® is an automated account information and outage reporting system.)

(for members outside of the service area.)

To report an outage at any time, call PowerLine at (800) 448-2383.

OFFICE HOURS: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday Kiosk available 24/7 + Night deposit Visit us on the web at BlueRidgeEnergy.com and follow us via our social media channels at

MEMBERSHIP matters

Blue Ridge-0520.indd 20

Access your accounts and pay online online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com > My Account OR chat with us!

Download the “Blue Ridge Energy Mobile App” for FREE today on your smartphone or tablet!

By phone

1-800-451-5474

At our payment kiosks at each district office*; Harris Teeter, Shadowline Drive, Boone; Scotchman Convenience Store, US Hwy. 321, Hudson; and Warrensville Drug, NC Hwy. 88W, Warrensville. *Propane and fuels payments at district office locations only.

By mail: Blue Ridge Energy PO Box 112 Lenoir, NC 28645

Envelope deposit slots at all district office kiosks (Normally applied the next business day.)

At Blue Ridge Energy, we’re focused on our members, especially during COVID-19.

That’s why we’ve suspended disconnections for late or nonpayments.We’re also waiving fees for emergency Propane and Fuels deliveries and late payments. Members who need a special payment plan can also call us at 1-800-451-5474. As we monitor COVID-19 and its impacts, we will adjust plans and procedures as necessary.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Page 20

4/8/20 3:52 PM

Here for you.

North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are taking action to respond to local impacts from COVID-19. Because we belong to the communities we serve, our focus remains on supporting members, now and always.

Learn more at NCElectricCooperatives.com/covid-19.

NCECAd-05-2020.indd CC05-wk.indd 21 1

4/7/20 1:29 1:46 PM

Energy Sense

MAKE YOURS A

David Clark Illustration

Smart Energy Home

Smart Thermostat Smart Speaker/Hub

Smart Lights/ Switches

Community Solar

Smart Outlet/ Power Strip

Smart Water Heater

Energy Storage System

Electric Vehicle Charger

Smart Energy Panel

Check with your co-op for related programs and incentives!

Provides "demand response" opportunities for electric utilities to reduce costs by trimming energy use during peak times.

Starting with a smart speaker and an internet connection, homes can now be retrofitted with various devices to make them more automated and more energy efficient.

Smart speaker/hub

These days smart speakers are taking over the job smart hubs once had, providing a means to control several wirelessly connected devices from a central location.

Smart thermostat

Smart lights/switches

Smart bulbs can be set to different hues and light levels. Smart switches can be controlled manually, remotely, or via a schedule.

Smart outlet/power strip

Wi-Fi enabled thermostats can be programmed to activate heating and cooling on a schedule, or take over the job themselves.

Outlets and power strips can be programmed to control corded devices on a schedule. Like most smart devices, a smart speaker enables control of them with voice commands.

Smart energy panel

Smart water heater

Provides more control of individual circuits right at the breaker panel.

22 | carolinacountry.com

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Provides leak detection, remote temperature control and will adjust mode to use patterns.

Electric vehicle (EV) charger

A Level 2 charging unit provides a faster charge from a 240-volt outlet.

Energy storage system

Residential batteries are still in the early phases of adoption and typically supplement rooftop solar systems. But as lithium-ion batteries become more affordable, they could provide homeowners a reliable, clean, quiet and cost-effective source of backup power.

Community solar

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives currently maintain 18 community solar farms around the state, allowing members to subscribe to the energy output from a panel or panels.

4/8/20 12:57 PM

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3/23/20 1:31 PM 4/6/20 5:12 PM

Tar Heel Tidbits For the young (and young at heart)

A GOOD READ

Bear at the Beach

Virtual History

With millions of people around the world staying at home to stay well, several iconic museums, from the Louvre in Paris to the Guggenheim in New York, are offering virtual tours of their exhibits. The North Carolina Museum of History is right up there with them, offering its own share of virtual experiences.

The museum’s website offers an array of resources related to our state’s history and culture. For students, videos on topics including NC history and toys from the 1950s and ‘60s can be paired with downloadable at-home learning packets for a truly interactive experience (playdough recipe, anyone?). For younger kids, videos are available of age-appropriate history books being read aloud.

Visit ncmuseumofhistory.org/history-at-home to get started.

wn Make Your O

Playdough

The at-home learning packet for the NC Museum of History’s “Toy Boom!” exhibit offers several recipes for DIY playdough, including this classic.

Recipe courtesy of the NC Museum of History, adapted from familyeducation.com.

In this beautifully illustrated and heart-warming book, Bear wants a father. He lives with a little girl, Clara, and they share her strawberries, paint box and her big bed at night. Clara loves Bear, but his fervent longing for a dad becomes an empty place he believes only a father can fill. He sets out along the shore to find his dad and discovers through his encounters that Clara gives him all the love that he needs.

The book also offers two additional stories: “Used Up Bear,” where he worries he will be cast aside for a new toy, and “Lonesome Bear,” where he makes new friends on a search for the missing Clara.

The book’s author and illustrator, Clay Carmichael, lives in Carrboro. To learn more about her and to purchase the book, visit claycarmichael.com.

Flexibound, 129 pages, $14.95.

Classic Playdough 1 1 ½ 1

1

cup water tablespoon vegetable oil cup salt tablespoon cream of tartar Food coloring cup flour

Combine water, oil, salt, cream of tartar, and food coloring in a saucepan and heat until warm.

Stir, then knead until smooth. The cream of tartar makes this dough last six months or longer, so resist the temptation to omit this ingredient if you don’t have it on hand.

Store this dough in an airtight container or a Ziploc freezer bag.

Remove from heat and add flour.

24 | carolinacountry.com

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4/9/20 11:18 AM

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MKT-P101

4/6/20 5:12 PM

CAROLINA COUNTRY

NOAA

adventures

A NOAA diver surveys the remains of the HMT Bedfordshire.

War Grave Beneath the Waves The HMT Bedfordshire rests as a British memorial in NC waters

By Joan Wenner

B

A fateful mission As Allied ships were being struck

by German U-boats, or submarines, while ferrying supplies to Britain for the war effort, Britain provided two dozen ships to patrol our East Coast as escorts for the vital supply missions. Among them was the Bedfordshire, a converted trawler with a British and Canadian crew of 37 based out of Morehead City.

On May 11, 1942, U-boat No. 558 fired a torpedo at her and missed.

Unfortunately, a second torpedo scored a direct hit, sinking the armed trawler immediately and killing all on board. That same U-boat was spotted in 1943, still in the vicinity of Ocracoke Island, and struck herself.

Its German captain was captured, along with his ship’s logs, which confirmed the Bedfordshire’s fate.

The remains of four of the Bedfordshire’s youthful sailors washed ashore on Ocracoke Island, where they were buried and are now annually remembered at the British Cemetery on Ocracoke Island. Two other sailors are buried at the Buxton British Cemetery on Hatteras Island.

National Archives and Records Administration

y tradition and maritime law, sunken warships remain the property of the government of the nation that owned them, unless deemed abandoned. Some, like the HMT Bedfordshire resting off the coast of the Outer Banks, are forever honored as “war graves.”

The Bedfordshire was outfitted as an armed trawler.

Honoring the fallen With modern technological advances and side-scanning sonar used in research expeditions by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bedfordshire was found in 1980 off our coast about 40 miles south-southeast of Cape Lookout. The ship’s remains were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015 and were officially declared a War Memorial

by Great Britain in 2016. NOAA continues to monitor and protect the site; unauthorized disturbance of an underwater war memorial is considered a serious offense.

The federal government is in the process of expanding the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary, which protects the remains of the Civil War ironclad USS Monitor, to include several other historically significant

wreck sites — including that of the Bedfordshire. Hopefully, notes a NOAA official, these efforts and others, including the British Embassy in Washington, will result in the waters off Cape Hatteras being designated a National Marine Sanctuary of its own in time for the 75th anniversary of the conclusion of WWII in September 2020.

Joan Wenner, J.D., is a longtime history and maritime writer residing in eastern North Carolina. Contact Joan at joan_writer@yahoo.com for more information about the ship, including a complete service record.

carolinacountry.com/extras In 2018, the author mailed a Carolina Country article about WWII on the NC coast to the United Kingdom’s Queen Elizabeth II. See her royal response online.

26 | carolinacountry.com

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4/9/20 11:02 AM

ADVERTISEMENT

In February, over 150 adult 4-H volunteers from across the state joined together in Durham for North Carolina 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Conference.

During this three-day conference, 4-H Volunteers had the chance to participate in workshops geared towards providing training in a variety of areas. 4-H Volunteers also had multiple opportunities to participate in and learn materials that they could take back and use with their 4-H club members.

Volunteers who attended this conference were able to learn from other 4-H Volunteers, through both

formal and informal networking, and left the conference feeling renewed and inspired to go back into their communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of 4-H youth.

North Carolina 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Conference is sponsored

by North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. North Carolina 4-H is Cooperative Extension’s youth development program.

NC State University and N.C. A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sexual identity (including pregnancy) and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, U.S.Department of Agriculture, and local governments cooperating.

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4/8/20 12:55 PM

Carolina Gardens

Cool Catch

Draw butterflies with the quirky shrimp plant

Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

“Pretty” is what popular summerflowering ornamentals are supposed to be, but when such praise is amended with “and weird,” you have the makings of a strange plant that is too cool to resist for many rambunctious gardeners. Welcome to the delightfully quirky world of shrimp plant (Justicia brandegeana).

As advertised, shrimp plant’s flowing flowers look like a seafood restaurant’s all-you-can-eat special, with tapering, curved, conical rows of overlapping bracts forming launch pads for small, white, tube-shaped blossoms (which, by the way, are butterfly and hummingbird magnets).

The species selection of shrimp plant has a rust-red coloration, much like the tint of boiled shrimp.

Following the success of the original reddish shrimp plant, other dazzlers were introduced, including the popular cultivar “Yellow Queen,” which is hard to miss with its blazing yellow bracts. And deep from the quirky corner comes “Fruit Cocktail” with short bracts resembling small, butter-yellow fish waving ruby red flower-hands. No kidding.

Depending on the selection, a happy shrimp plant can stretch three to almost five feet tall. The key to keeping it festooned with blooms in summer is to choose a planting site that has fertile, well-worked soil and receives sun most of the day with some shading later in the afternoon.

Shrimp plants can tolerate drought, but will look better if they are mulched and watered once to twice a week during extended dry spells.

Shrimp plant is a tropical perennial from Mexico typically treated as an annual in Carolina Country, but this doesn’t mean you have to wave bye-bye to your botanical babies when the first frosts of fall bite. I’ve successfully overwintered potted shrimp plants indoors in a sunny southern window by trimming them way back (to save space), watering sparingly over the coldest months and misting the leaves occasionally.

Even garden-ground shrimp plants can live again via cuttings taken in the late summer and propagated inside over winter using rooting hormone powder and a moist, sterile growing medium such as perlite or vermiculite.

You can find “Yellow Queen” shrimp plant at local nurseries.

“Fruit Cocktail” may be harder to find locally.

You can find the reddish species shrimp plant, as well as “Yellow Queen,” at area nurseries . “Fruit Cocktail” might be a little harder to find locally, but go online, with Logee’s Greenhouses (logees.com) being a good place to start e-fishin’.

L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Contact L.A. at lajackson1@gmail.com.

Garden To-Do’s for May If adding a sweet-smelling gardenia to the garden is on your to-do list this spring, here are a few quick tips: (1) Plant in a partially sunny location or at least in a spot that receives only morning sun; (2) pick a fertile, well-worked site that, to help prevent root rot, has good drainage; and (3) add extra nutrients at planting time by applying an acidic, well-balanced, time-release fertilizer like the ones specialized for azaleas and camellias. Also, from the Piedmont west, consider hardy cultivars such as “Chuck Hayes,” “Kleim’s Hardy” and “Frost Proof” that are better at toughing out nasty winters.

F

Cool-season edibles such as collards, broccoli, lettuce kale and spinach have all had their day in the vegetable patch this spring. However, with temperatures on the rise, they are beginning to look bad — and taste worse — so pull up spent and bolting plants to make room for heat-seeking summer veggies.

F

Watch for fire blight on susceptible plants such as pyracantha, apple, quince, raspberry, cotoneaster, pear and blackberry. This dastardly disease blackens and shrivels new growth. Any afflicted limb ends should be pruned off to prevent the blight from spreading to other branches.

28 | carolinacountry.com

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2020

Categories include: Nothing could be finer ...

Carolina Country is proud to offer up our second annual Carolina’s Finest Awards, showcasing the finest North Carolina has to offer.

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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.

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May 2020 | 31

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4/6/20 5:12 PM

Carolina Kitchen

Krispy Kreme Cannoli Strawberry Shortcakes

With whipped cream and chocolate drizzle

We love strawberry time! And Krispy Kreme doughnuts, of course. How about an NC cannoli strawberry shortcake? Those signature doughnuts, combined with a creamy cannoli-like filling, sweet berries, plus a pillow of whipped cream drizzled with chocolate? Yes, please!

12 Krispy Kreme doughnuts, air dried for a day 1 container (32 ounces) whole ricotta cheese, drained in refrigerator for 24 hours 1½ cup confectioner’s sugar 1 cup mini chocolate chips ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon almond extract 2 quarts strawberries, sliced and sweetened with honey as needed ¼ cup orange juice 1 pint heavy whipping cream Chocolate syrup 1 block of baking chocolate, shaved* Drain cheese for one day (two is best). Blend in sugar, chocolate chips, cinnamon and extracts.

Too stiff? Add a few tablespoons of cream.

Slice berries. Stir in honey and orange juice.

Whip cream until stiff.

Split doughnuts horizontally. Cover each bottom half with cheese mixture. Spoon over strawberries. Top with doughnut half and whipped cream. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and garnish with shaved chocolate. *For shaved chocolate, using a vegetable peeler, carefully “shave” the sides of a block of baking chocolate over the shortcakes.

Yield: 12 shortcakes

Everything Bubble Bread With blue cheese & rosemary

Sometimes a salad or meal just needs a simple bread to round things out. This bubble bread pairs perfectly with our Pork and Orzo Salad, as well as summertime grilled meats. Quick and easy, this bread is an appropriate recipe for aspiring young chefs.

1 can (16 ounces) large biscuits, any kind 1 stick butter, melted ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder

2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary 1 container (5 ounces) blue cheese crumbles, divided 2 tablespoons ‘Everything Bagel’ mix (look in spices section)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut biscuits into quarters. Add powders and rosemary to melted butter.

Dip biscuit pieces into seasoned butter and place into baking dish, sides touching.

Scatter with half the blue cheese crumbles and drizzle with any remaining butter.

Sprinkle with bagel mix and bake 12–15 minutes until cooked and browned.

Turn off oven and scatter with remaining cheese. Remove from oven once cheese starts melting and serve immediately.

Yield: Makes 32 bites

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Carlina Kitchen

Pulled Pork & Orzo Italian Salad With roasted garlic

From Your Kitchen

This dish does take a bit of planning, but it’s simple to prepare and well worth the result — a big bowl of flavorful pasta salad. Keeps well for up to a week in the refrigerator, and flavors improve with age. Best served at room temperature.

5–6 pounds pork butt, cooked, shredded and chopped (cook ahead in crockpot) 1 box (16 ounces) orzo, cooked per package directions 1 jar (8.5 ounces) julienned sun dried tomatoes with oil, undrained 1 jar (3.5 ounces) capers, drained 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped (We used Mt. Olive.)

1 cup white raisins 1 cup toasted pine nuts ½ cup loosely packed, chopped fresh parsley 1 bag (6 ounces) baby spinach, roughly chopped 3 tablespoons dried oregano 2 tablespoons honey ¼ cup balsamic vinegar Salt and pepper 4 heads roasted garlic* 1 cup oil*

Yield: About 4 quarts

Tara Verna

Fold pork into orzo. Add remaining ingredients, stirring until well blended. Serve immediately or refrigerate to serve later. Best if removed from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. *Cut tops from 4 heads of garlic. Place in small baking dish.

Pour oil over garlic. Roast at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Cool and squeeze cloves into salad, along with the oil.

Note: The orzo can be cooked 1–2 days ahead. Cook al dente, and toss with 2 tablespoons oil. Refrigerate in airtight container until ready to make salad.

No-Bake Energy Bites

2/3 cup toasted coconut ½ cup semisweet flakes, optional chocolate chips 1/3 cup honey or 1 cup rolled oats agave nectar ½ cup peanut butter 1 tablespoon chia seeds, ½ cup ground flax seeds optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract If you choose to toast the coconut, spread it in an even layer over a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 8–10 minutes.

Stop to stir every two minutes and remove when flakes are golden brown.

Stir all ingredients together in a medium bowl until thoroughly mixed. Cover and let chill in the refrigerator for half an hour. Roll into one-inch balls.

Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to one week.

What is orzo?

Orzo is sometimes confused with rice, but it’s actually an Italian pasta that looks like large-grain rice. Although typically used as pasta, orzo can often be interchanged with rice. Some combine with rice when making risotto. Find it in most grocery stores in the pasta section.

Unless otherwise noted, recipes on these pages are from Wendy Perry, a culinary adventurist and blogger, who chats about goodness around NC on her blog at WendysHomeEconomics.com.

Yield: Makes 20–25 balls

Recipe courtesy of Karen Victor of Fleetwood, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

Send Us Your Recipes

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.

carolinacountry.com/recipes We take food seriously. Search more than 800 recipes by name or ingredient, with a new recipe featured every week!

May 2020 | 33

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where

in Carolina Country is this ?

Send your answer by May 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 June issue, will receive $25.

April winner

The April "Where Is This" photo by Carolina Country’s Warren Kessler features sculptures at Grahamland, located in the Delco community on Highway 74/76 outside of Bolton along the Brunswick/Columbus County line. Owner Hubert Graham creates these unique fiberglass figurines and lawn ornaments, including flamingos, dinosaurs, grizzlies and gorillas! Many have been featured in movies shot near Wilmington. A few once stood at the old Jubilee Park in Carolina Beach, reports Cathy Swaim. Many readers commented that they look for the Uniroyal Gals on every trip to and from Wilmington and the southeastern NC beaches. Visit grahamlandfiberglass.com to learn more. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Frances King of Zebulon, a Wake Electric 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.

May’S FEATURED TRACK

Carolina

“It Just Takes One to Wander”

MUSIC

By Jim Lauderdale As Jim Lauderdale notes in this wry tune he co-wrote with Graham Sharp, “It takes two to tango, but it just takes one to wander.” The song, one of 13 tracks on Jim’s new album, “When Carolina Comes Homes Again,” pays homage to this two-time Grammy winner’s native North Carolina. In fact, the first bluegrass festival he ever went to was at Union Grove, at age 14.

“It blew my mind,” he recalls. “The music got into my bones, and I just had to get a banjo.” To say Jim is prolific is a bit of an understatement. The album is Jim’s 33rd and signals that this gifted, hardworking singer-songwriter is still going strong.

Ian Laidlaw

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carolinacountry.com/music Learn more about Jim Lauderdale and listen to this featured track, as well as others from NC musicians.

4/8/20 1:08 PM

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AARP commercial member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

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4/6/20 5:12 PM

from the comfort of your home Electing the directors who guide your cooperative is an important way you can be involved in Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation.

It’s also one of the many advantages of being served by a cooperative.

This month, you’ll be receiving your director election kit, which includes voting instructions, candidate biographical information, and your proxy. Members can vote for Board members in all districts, not just the district in which they live.

If you signed up to receive your kit by email, you’ll receive the same information with a link to vote online.

See the next page for special information regarding the annual meeting.

WIN AN

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Online

Mail

You can vote online or you may cast your vote by mail using the provided postagepaid return envelope for the 2020 Board of Directors Election!

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

4/8/20 4:13 PM

Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation

2020 Report on Nominees Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation’s Nominating Committee met on March 10, to review qualifications and nominate Board candidates to present to the membership for election to four open seats on the Board of Directors.

Through the Nominating Committee process, this slate of qualified candidates are presented to the membership for consideration. Members have the opportunity to vote for their choice of candidates in every district and elect those who will serve a three-year term on the Board. Members have convenient options to vote for directors by internet or mail, and full details will be included in director election kits being mailed to each member on May 27. Members may also attend and vote for candidates at the Annual Meeting.

The Annual Meeting is a business meeting format featuring reports and announcement of director election results. *If a “Stay at Home” order or “State of Emergency” is still in effect at the time of the Annual Meeting, Blue Ridge will utilize an alternative process for attending remotely and for voting by ballot in order to comply with all laws, government orders and government public health recommendations. We encourage all members to vote by proxy in advance of the Annual Meeting, using either mail or the internet. Blue Ridge will also be sensitive to the public health recommendations regarding the number of individuals who may safely gather together.

Notice of Annual Meeting

David DavidBeckett Eggers

Tom Trexler

Caldwell District

Watauga District

David Boone

Johnny Wishon, Jr.

Ashe District

Alleghany District

Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation Thursday, June 25, 2020 — 4:00 p.m.* Blue Ridge Energy Corporate Office, Lenoir, N.C.

The Nominating Committee nominated these four candidates for consideration.

No nominations by petition were received by this year’s deadline of April 1.

2020 Director Proxy Committee As part of the governance process for director elections, the Director Proxy Committee was elected at the March Board of Directors meeting. This year’s committee includes: Kelly Melton (Caldwell District), Cindy Price (Ashe District), and JB Lawrence (Watauga District).

This committee is made up of three directors who are not running for re-election to the Board this year.

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The purpose of this committee is to cast votes as directed by the member on the proxy in the director election kit. This will include those members who designate the Director Proxy Committee to act on their behalf in casting director votes and those members who make no designation on the proxy form for a particular district.

4/8/20 4:13 PM