2020-08-BRE

August 2020

A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS

IN THIS T GETHER

RELIEF FUND

COVID19

You can reach out and make someone’s life better simply by agreeing to have your power bill rounded up each month.

PERIODICAL

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Through Operation Round Up®, your few cents each month — added to others’ — will support the In This Together Relief Fund. Turn the page to learn more.

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A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS More than 1,000 of your Blue Ridge neighbors have received one-time emergency assistance for paying their energy bills the first six months of this year. That’s more than ALL the assists last year!

Your donation to Operation Round Up® helps. You can touch someone’s life and make a positive difference by agreeing to have your bill rounded up to the next dollar each month. Your small contribution is added to over 20,000 members’ contributions to have a big impact in helping provide energy assistance to other Blue Ridge members.

These donations support the In This Together Relief Fund, which continues to provide crisis energy bill assistance for members who have been impacted by COVID-19 and other life-changing events.

Reach out and provide a little help!

IF YOU’RE ABLE TO HELP: • Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ORU to sign up.

• Join Operation Round Up PLUS® to donate a bit more each month.

• Consider a one-time donation to the In This Together fund.

IN THIS T GETHER

RELIEF FUND

COVID19

Learn more at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ORU today.

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August 2020

4-H: Beyond the Farm NC co-ops support our youth page 10

Published by

News from our old friend Jacob Brooks page 6

Is your home storm-ready? page 22

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge Energy wants you to Beat the Peak—pages 17–20 August 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 or many patients with macular macular degeneration have the dry form. degeneration and other vision- New research suggests vitamins can help. The British medical journal BMC related conditions, the loss of central visual detail also signals Ophthalmology recently reported that 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

F

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. 8

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Favorites 4 Viewpoints 6 Jacob’s Log 8 More Power

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24 Energy Sense 28 Adventures 30 Marketplace 32 Carolina Kitchen 34 Where is This?

34 Carolina Artist

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10 14 22 26

Beyond the Farm

NC electric co-ops support 4-H as it builds bright futures for NC youth.

Step Up to the Art-o-mat

Clark Whittington is making local art accessible.

Storm Watch

Prepare your family and property for severe weather.

The Smell of Cedar

On the Cover A summer camper strikes a pose in the pool at the Eastern 4-H Center.

Learn more about the program, as well as how electric co-ops support its values of leadership, community service and citizenship, on page 10. Photo courtesy of 4-H.

And other things you remember.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

What’s Cooking in Your Kitchen?

We are always on the lookout for great recipes from our readers. And we put our money where our mouth is, offering $25 for those published. See page 33 for details.

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Viewpoints

A Powerful Lesson in Unity

By Karis Dean

I stared at the list of unopened emails and saw the one I was waiting for. I called my mom so we could open it, and together we learned I had been selected to be among a brilliant group of Youth Tourists chosen to embark on an amazing opportunity in the summer of 2019. The application process encouraged me to do research on my electric cooperative, Piedmont Electric, and opened my eyes to the potential electric cooperatives can have throughout my state, across the country, and around the world. My local electric co-op is a community-based organization that’s part of a global-scale initiative to supply all rural communities with energy. In that long-anticipated email, I was asked to represent this forward-thinking organization, dedicated to igniting the minds of the youth, investing in community outreach efforts, and lighting homes and communities.

The Youth Tour orientation dinner fell on the same day as my high school graduation; my mom and I rushed from one ceremonial event to the other. I sat at a table with other youth representing their respective cooperatives from North Carolina. I was in awe at the diverse backgrounds of each Youth Tourist. At this event, we were given the opportunity to participate in a speech competition. One Youth Tourist would be selected to become a member of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Leadership Council (YLC). The more I researched for my speech, the more I wanted to know about electric cooperatives and how I could help foster a relationship between the community’s youth and current cooperative board members. In front of a room of my peers, I delivered my speech, and was

“Differences presumed and differences observed are meant to spark debate and conversation, not conflict and confrontation.” honored to be selected as my state’s YLC representative during trips to Washington, D.C., and NRECA’s Annual Meeting in New Orleans.

I anticipated learning more about electric cooperatives and my state’s role in NRECA on the D.C. trip, though I may not have considered the depth of knowledge I would receive on North Carolina’s broadband and beneficial electrification efforts. I certainly did not anticipate discovering collaborative efforts and observing bipartisanship as an attainable goal.

During the Youth Tour, I was given the opportunity to see a variety of beliefs, ideals and disciplines within my own state and across the country.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned while in D.C. is that the differences we observe are not intended to divide us. Differences presumed and differences observed are meant to spark debate and conversation, not conflict and confrontation. I learned this powerful lesson of unparalleled importance while watching a debate in the House of Representatives. Two disagreeing parties recognized differences and allowed those differences to propel them toward a compromise.

The benefits I received from the opportunity I was offered are multifaceted. My eyes were opened to the significant initiatives of cooperatives: locally, nationally and globally. My mind was flooded with possibilities and “what if” questions. My heart was filled with the lasting relationships

I forged. My Youth Tour experience provided me with yet another unexpected opportunity — that of writing this column. And it prompted me to reach out to some of my fellow Youth Tourists to ask what their favorite parts of Youth Tour were.

The consensus was reached and we all agreed that we loved the passions ignited within and among us.

I had a path I presumed would lead me to my career goals, but I did not expect one email to change my path, nor did I imagine it would change the way I thought of politics, energy, community and collaboration. I became passionate about fostering a lasting relationship and impact on my community. I have high hopes for the future of cooperatives and the youth of America, because my Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Council experiences expanded my horizons, and I hope they do the same for future delegates.

Karis Dean grew up in Chapel Hill and now attends NC State University in Raleigh.

She is majoring in Economics and Spanish Language and Literature.

Honoring Youth Tourists The 2020 Youth Tour was canceled due to travel restrictions amid the ongoing pandemic, but North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are still finding ways to honor this year’s delegates. A YLC scholarship will be awarded, and NRECA is hosting a weekly online series of speakers and elected officials to bring Youth Tourists together.

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THIS MONTH:

Celebrating Our Youth One of the missions important to North Carolina’s electric cooperatives is supporting future generations by providing them with resources to help ensure success. That’s why we’ve sponsored the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., for more than 50 years, and why we dedicate funds to scholarships, classroom grants and youth programs like 4-H every year. In this issue, we’re pleased to share more about some of those programs, as well as hear from past participants.

—Scott Gates, editor

A Call for Diversity I enjoy receiving your magazine. It does a great job keeping abreast of what’s going on in the community. My concern is the lack of diversity throughout. I truly believe the magazine, advertisers and readers would benefit greatly hearing from a myriad of leaders and standout community members.

Billy Collins, Fayetteville A member of Lumbee River EMC Editor’s note: Thank you for writing in about this, Billy. In representing the state’s electric cooperatives, we strive to champion all members of those co-ops, who represent richly diverse communities across North Carolina. In recent years, we have made efforts to include more coverage of people from an array of racial and ethnic groups. But your letter is proof that we can always do more. We will do better to ensure the content in Carolina Country demonstrates the values of diversity, equity and inclusion.

(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

Backyard Glimmer of Hope When I think I can’t stay at home any longer, I take my camera and head outdoors. I have found that nature offers both hope and inspiration.

One thing I especially enjoy is taking photos of the bluebirds nesting in the birdhouse that my husband gave me for Mother’s Day. Janis Harless, Jefferson A member of Blue Ridge Energy

Puzzling Reflection The cover of the July issue was (what I suspect to be an unintended) challenge. I stared at it at length before turning it upside down! Only then did the leaves into which the swimmer appears to have been jumping make sense. Great job, and thanks for the magazine!

James Berry, Littleton, a member of Halifax EMC Editor’s note: James, you weren’t alone in your puzzlement! The tree was meant to be a reflection in the water below.

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.

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.

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.

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Viewpoints

Philip Smith of 1L Photo

JACOB’S LOG:

Only Through Pain Do We Grow

Discomfort can lead to great things

By Jacob Brooks

Greetings, Carolina Country family! It’s your old pal Jacob, coming to you from the promised land, otherwise known as North Cackalacky. I’m excited to share that I’m back in the good Old North State. Believe it or not, I tricked the fine folks at Chapel Hill into educating me again. And my wife, Katie, is pursuing her doctorate at Duke. (It seemed only fitting that since she taught me about SEC football — War Eagle — now I should teach her about ACC basketball as a household divided.)

These past few months have been challenging and uncertain for us all, so I wanted to share some words with you that I hope will bring you a sense of comfort and hope, if only in the slightest way.

“I thank God for pain. Because only through pain do we change, and only through pain do we grow.”

I heard these words while on Youth Tour approximately 10 years ago. Mike Schlappi, a Paralympian, was challenged with inspiring 1,500 sunburnt teenagers from rural America. From where I sat, it seemed a difficult task for any keynote speaker. It was 8 o’clock in the morning. Ninety-nine percent of the feet in the room were blistered.

And the luxury air conditioning in the ballroom of the Hyatt was no match for the D.C. humidity. Fortunately, Mike was up to the task.

He was a talented student athlete whose collegiate dreams were cut short after he was accidentally shot.

Paralyzed from the waist down, Mike recalibrated his life, adjusted his dream, and became a gold medalist in men’s wheelchair basketball. The themes of his message resonated

with me then, and they resonate with me now.

Appreciate failure, embrace discomfort, learn humility, grow.

Failure has long been an acquaintance of mine. The first time I mowed the yard, I turned one of Mama’s favorite laurel bushes into mulch (in my defense, I was 9). I once incorrectly taught my fifth graders how to divide fractions. My students were smarter than me and corrected my error. And I constantly forget which week is the recycling week — a fact my dear wife never lets me forget.

The encouragement to embrace discomfort and to learn humility certainly came in handy while studying abroad in South Africa. Not only had I been immersed in a new culture where my southern drawl made me stick out like a sore thumb, but I came to the program as a novice. My professors and fellow students intimidated me.

Each were more knowledgeable and accomplished in their areas of study. I was afraid I would expose myself as an unqualified undergraduate just trying to keep up. But I recalled my time as a Youth Tour participant and leaned on

Mike’s words. I embraced my discomfort, humbled myself, and owned my inexperience.

Because I set aside my ego, my perspective evolved. Because I humbled myself, I absorbed the significance of sitting less than 50 feet away from Archbishop Desmond Tutu while he addressed our cohort — I’ll have to write a book on this one day. His powerful story of rebuilding post-apartheid South Africa alongside Nelson Mandela and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission changed my understanding of the world. Because I heeded the wisdom I heard while on Youth Tour, I knew what to do with my uncertainty.

Long story short, I grew.

Our days certainly aren’t lacking for pain. But the charge is on us to embrace it and grow. Do know that I’m out here in the world trying to do the same. All the best to you and your loved ones.

Jacob Brooks represented Blue Ridge Electric on the 2010 Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., when he first began writing his “Log” for Carolina Country. He is currently studying law at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Drop him a line at jibrooks@live.unc.edu.

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Eastern NC co-ops recently worked together to donate a total of $10,000 to Ronald McDonald House of Eastern North Carolina. The donation was matched by a grant of $10,000 from national cooperative bank CoBank’s Sharing Success program.

Albemarle EMC, Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative, Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, EdgecombeMartin County EMC, Halifax EMC, Jones-Onslow EMC, Pitt & Greene EMC, Roanoke Electric Cooperative, Tideland EMC and Tri-County EMC contributed to the donation.

“It’s great to have a partnership with CoBank to provide funds like this to very worthy and needy causes,” said Edgecombe-Martin County EMC CEO Winston Howell.

“We’re also very appreciative to have a program and organization like the Ronald McDonald House here in our community that impacts all of the co-ops and our members. They provide a home away from home for so many families in need.”

The Ronald McDonald House is an

Monica Speight, Edgecombe-Martin County EMC

Co-ops Present $20,000 to Ronald McDonald House of Eastern NC

Meghan Woolard, executive director of the Ronald McDonald House of Eastern NC, accepts the check from co-op CEOs and general managers (L-R) Winston Howell, Charles Guerry, Paul Spruill and Mark Suggs.

essential resource in eastern North Carolina, providing families with quality care and a place to rest and recharge while their children receive medical treatment.

How you can help Contact the Ronald McDonald House at mhenc.org/donate or 252-847-5435 for more information or to make a donation.

Renewable Energy Tops Coal in 2019 Last year, U.S. annual energy consumption from renewable sources surpassed coal consumption for the first time since before 1885, when wood and hydropower were the only commercial-scale sources of renewable energy.

Compared with 2018, coal consumption in the United States decreased nearly 15 percent, and total renewable energy consumption grew by 1 percent, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

“This outcome mainly reflects the continued

decline in the amount of coal used for electricity generation over the past decade as well as growth in renewable energy, mostly from wind and solar,” EIA said.

Coal was used in the early 1800s as fuel for steam-powered boats and trains and making steel. It was first used to generate electricity in the 1880s, according to EIA. North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have spent the past decade reducing dependence on carbon-intensive power generation. As a result, their current fuel mix is more than 50 percent carbon free. Coal-fired generation makes up only 5 percent of the portfolio, compared with the national average of 13 percent.

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Beyond the Farm

4-H builds leadership, technical skills for NC youth

By Pamela A. Keene

When Wayne County resident Anne Finch’s children joined a 4-H club for home-schooled students, 4-H focused mostly on agricultural and consumer family sciences activities.

That was nearly 30 years ago. Anne soon became the club’s volunteer leader, and she’s seen 4-H expand its programming over the years.

Today, the Wayne County 4-H Club, called the Roto Raptors, is winning national and international awards and providing youth in central North Carolina hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics to prepare them for leadership roles and careers in tomorrow’s workforce.

“From the beginning, I saw the opportunities that 4-H offered to young people beyond traditional education.

Starting a home-school club gave those students a chance to meet, socialize and build their skills with others who were home-schooled,” Anne says, who has been a volunteer 4-H leader for more than 27 years.

“The program gives members an all-round taste of

possibilities, including leadership, community service and citizenship, as well as field trips, environmental issues and life skills.”

As the program grew and technology began to play a more prominent role in youth education, the Wayne County 4-H agent contacted Anne about an opportunity for her club.

“Several students in the county wanted to start a robotics club and funding was available from North Carolina 4-H and J.C. Penney,” she says. “We realized that some of the rural counties like ours were limited in the options for youth in STEM, so we embraced the chance, also broadening the club to other high school students.”

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High-tech teamwork

The 4-H Development Fund paid for 10 teams in the state for the first year in 2011 — teams that are part of the FIRST Robotics Competition for high school students from around the world. For the past eight years, the Wayne County Roto Raptors team has built robots and traveled across the country, meeting other teams and collaborating on award-winning projects.

“Through FIRST, Wayne County’s 4-H Roto Raptors have really made a difference in the lives of its members and other young people in the county,” says Mike Yoder, state program leader for the North Carolina State Extension 4-H initiative. “Not only do members learn about STEM, they also develop leadership and teamwork skills.”

Like other teams around the world, the Roto Raptors work all year on their robots, following strict guidelines from FIRST. From initial research to securing materials, they design, then craft a robot that can perform the assigned task determined for all teams that year.

“Once the teams arrive at national, they form an alliance with two other teams, who may be from anywhere in the world, and they’re given about 15 minutes to plan their strategy and agree on their approach,” Mike says. “I’m amazed to watch how they negotiate their designs, determine the hierarchy of leadership and create award-winning robots. This program has been a wonderful addition to 4-H in North Carolina, adding another dimension to the organization’s mission and ideals.” continued on page 12

“I’m amazed to watch how they negotiate their designs, determine the hierarchy of leadership and create award-winning robots.“

Learn more about 4-H National: 4-h.org North Carolina: nc4h.ces.ncsu.edu Find your local 4-H: 4-h.org/find

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“We share in 4-H’s commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders.“ Building partnerships, past and present

In the early 1900s, various youth programs sprang up in places like Ohio, with its seed-corn club, and a sewing/homemaking group in Iowa, to connect formal education with country-life skills outside of school. In 1914, the Smith-Lever Act created the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension System based at land-grant universities to reach rural counties across the nation. Its premises are straightforward: to provide positive youth development, to help youth learn skills to help them succeed, to support youth to become responsible, active and engaged citizens through service and leadership, and to sustain life-long learning for youth and volunteers.

In North Carolina, 4-H programs under the guidance of NC State and NC A&T reach 260,000 youth annually, either through regular club membership, short-term learning experiences, school enrichment programs, and the 4-H camping program.

Programming ranges from agricultural and livestock competitions to leadership conferences. Youth participate in local, regional, statewide and national meetings.

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, the statewide association for the 26 electric cooperatives serving 93 of the state’s 100 counties, is active in support of 4-H. The organization sponsors the annual 4-H Volunteer Leadership Conference to help train adult volunteers.

More than 175 people attended the meeting, which was held in early 2020 in Durham.

“It’s a learn-by-doing opportunity for 4-H leaders from around the state to come together for workshops and leadership development, as well as to share innovative programming ideas,” Mike says. “Our Volunteer Leaders Conference is crucial to the success of our many adult volunteers. We couldn’t produce this multi-day meeting without strong support from our business and community partners.”

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives also sponsors the 4-H Citizen North Carolina Focus, a chance for more than 100 youth leaders to journey to Raleigh to meet with state legislators, discuss important local and state issues and take part in taping a public affairs television program, “NC SPIN.” “Supporting NC 4-H is a natural fit for the state’s electric co-ops,” explains Jennifer Heiss, communications specialist for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

“We share in 4-H’s commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders. Many of the youth who participate in our Youth Tour or who receive scholarships from our member electric cooperatives are also active in their local 4-H program.”

Several local electric cooperatives support their local 4-H programs in other ways, including hosting annual golf tournaments to raise funds for local 4-H programming. In 2019, these events alone provided more than $50,000 to be used across the state.

Other examples include work by Tarboro-based Edgecombe-Martin County EMC, which helps sponsor the area’s Farm/City Breakfast, and, like other co-ops across the state, provides staff and its high-voltage demonstrator to school campuses to teach students about electrical safety.

Edgecombe-Martin County EMC Manager of Communications Monica Speight sums up the reason electric cooperatives support 4-H so willingly across the state.

“Education for our youth is not limited to schools,” she says. “The responsibility for education and youth development should be shared within the community.

After all, these youth are the leaders of tomorrow, and they’re responsible for our future.”

Pamela A. Keene is a freelance journalist who writes for magazines and newspapers across the Southeast and nationally.

12 | carolinacountry.com

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6/24/20 2:31 PM 7/8/20 11:34 AM

Carolina People

Step Up to the

Art-o-mat

Clark Whittington is making local art accessible

By Pamela A. Keene | Photos by Art-o-mat

C

igarette vending machines are making a comeback — but not how you might think. WinstonSalem artist Clark Whittington’s Art-o-mat® creations are giving rise to old-time tobacco vending machines as a source to purchase affordable, one-of-a-kind art.

Clark, a conceptual artist who has found a way to vend art and develop new audiences for artists and makers, purchased his first defunct vending machine more than 20 years ago with a vision.

“Things seem to reinvent themselves when artists become involved,” he says. “Back in 1997, I refurbished that machine and put it in a local café as a one-man show with my blackand-white photographs inside. I sold them for $1 each. Little did I realize what I’d started.”

That first Winston-Salem machine became popular, and Clark connected with other local artists to sell their work this way.

“It’s always a challenge for artists to get their work out there, so we gave them the chance to fill the machine with their pieces and we sold them for $1 each.”

Pretty soon, Clark had other businesses and galleries asking for his Art-o-mats to showcase local artists.

Today, his machines are located in arts centers, art museums, galleries, visitors centers and art retail stores.

Each machine is distinct in its design. They’re eye-catching and tend to pique people’s curiosity.

Here’s how it works: Clark restores and rebrands the old metal and glassfront, boxlike machines. He designs packaging that fits in the former slots for cigarette packs and asks interested artists to create items that will fit in the spaces.

“We’ve gone up on our price to $5 each, but the art inside is what brings people back,” he says. “An artist can package a pair of paper earrings, a necklace or bracelet, hand-painted buttons, collages, works of fiber or paintings on wood blocks. It’s really up to their own creativity and imagination.”

He designed standard-sized packaging and posted guidelines for artists on his website, including size requirements, preferred materials and suggestions for content and types of art.

Machines are placed with hosts, who sign contracts to accept a certain amount of packaged art and keep the machines stocked. Artists send him prototypes of their work — created to Clark’s specifications, of course — and he does the rest.

Each machine holds 10 to 22 artists’ work and offers descriptions of the makers whose work is inside. Buyers review the selections and choose which art they wish to purchase.

To date, Clark has placed nearly 100 machines all over North America and around the globe, in places like Australia, Austria and Hawaii.

His marketing research shows that approximately two-thirds of his artists and purchasers are female.

An Art-o-mat near you Several dozen Art-o-mats are located in North Carolina, including: ■ Cary Arts Center, Cary ■ The Atomic Fern, Durham ■ Old Nick’s Pub, Lewisville ■ Dare County Arts Council, Manteo ■ Slims Downtown, Raleigh ■ Foothills Brewing Tasting Room,

Winston-Salem ■ The Olio, Winston-Salem

Find more at artomat.org/locations.

“It’s all made in America and everything is made by hand, so it’s genuine,” he says. “We’ve been able to make a lot of impact.”

Clark has expanded the concept to his online store, offering Art-ocartons with 10 works as well as special editions.

“It’s been a pretty amazing ride so far,” he says. “I really thought it would disappear after the first month, but over the years people have really been getting into it. So many people think they don’t like art, but at $5 each, it’s certainly worth a try, even if it’s just to live with a little bit of it.”

Pamela A. Keene is a freelance journalist who writes for magazines and newspapers across the Southeast and nationally.

carolinacountry.com/extras

Watch a video about the history of the Art-o-mat and Clark’s method of “blessing” each machine.

14 | carolinacountry.com

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7/9/20 12:30 PM

Bad to the Bone Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79!

T

he very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature.

If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.

The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.

The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.

Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this BONUS! Call today and beauty slip through your fingers. Call today! you’ll also receive this

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*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the Not shown listed original Stauer.com price. actual size.

California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

• 12” overall length; 6 ¹⁄2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath

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RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Driving economic growth and job creation is one way North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are building a brighter future for rural people and communities, in this decade and beyond.

We’re equally committed to providing new energy services and promoting sustainability through innovative programs that enrich local communities.

NCElectricCooperatives.com/Brighter

CEC CR 31272-07 Brighter Future Econ (7.875x10.875).indd 1 CC08-wk.indd 16

6/2/20 2:56 PM 7/8/20 12:45 PM

A MONTHLY NEWSLETTER FROM BLUE RIDGE ENERGY

matters MEMBERSHIP

August 2020

Did you know...member participation in

the Beat The Peak program has helped save almost $1 million in wholesale power cost! Join the movement today. Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP to learn more.

Why Beat The Peak?

Looking for an easy way to keep costs down for yourself and all members? Blue Ridge Energy’s Beat The Peak program is for you!

Participating is simple and voluntary! Sign up to receive the alert of your choice — text, email, mobile app notification or phone call — to let you know when a peak will occur. Then, take action to help “beat the peak” by shifting some of your electricity consumption outside of peak hours.

Suggested Beat The Peak actions:

• Raise your thermostat as high as comfortable in the summer • Wash/dry clothes and dishes during the morning or evening • Turn off unnecessary lights • Grill outside or use the microwave

Peaks occur when a majority of people are using the most electricity in a short amount of time and power producers must generate enough electricity to meet that demand. In our area, this is usually between 2-7 p.m. on the hottest weekdays of summer.

If members voluntarily reduce their electricity usage during peak demand times,

it can make a big difference in controlling expensive wholesale power costs to keep rates — and bills — low. It can even help delay the need to build power plants!

Sign up today by texting BTP to 70216 or at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP.

Blue Ridge-0820.indd 17

7/9/20 2:48 PM

the

T

perspective

Ho wh m sm gin fac ne

From Blue Ridge CEO Doug Johnson

Member involvement Since adding convenient mail and internet voting options for director elections, thousands of members are making their voices heard each year.

You tell us you like these easy ways to participate in the important cooperative business of voting for your Board of Directors. Members were informed of the process and how to be involved in prior newsletters and at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

The Board of Directors are members just like you. They live in local communities and work hard to ensure the cooperative is operated in the best interests of member-owners.

Board members devote significant time and effort in training and education to equip themselves for setting sound policy, rates and strategic direction for the cooperative’s membership. Their most important responsibility is assuring that the cooperative meets your needs for reliable, affordable electricity and energy products delivered with superior member care.

The cross-section of backgrounds, skills and knowledge Page 18

Blue Ridge-0820.indd 18

encompassed by your Board of Directors helps provide strong leadership to benefit you as members. Your Board is on a continuous course of training and learning to stay updated in a transforming industry. Each director works to achieve their credentials and Board leadership certifications from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. These curriculums, along with training by national and state associations, equip your Board with the critical skills and knowledge necessary to effectively guide the cooperative.

I want to thank the members who voted this year by mail and Internet to elect four directors to three-year terms. We’re also glad many of you joined us by telephone to hear business reports during your cooperative’s annual meeting. We held this year’s meeting by phone as communicated in your June Carolina Country magazine for the health and safety of everyone during this period of COVID-19.

Member participation in electing your Board of Directors is one of the seven cooperative principles and one of the many benefits of membership in an electric cooperative!

Board Update Over 6,100 members voted in this year’s director elections, thanks to convenient options of voting by mail or internet.

Members could also vote at the cooperative’s corporate office in Lenoir during the Annual Meeting, which was held Thursday, June 25.

Fo bu re di pa fre ab be

H

Co su

Directors elected to serve threeyear terms were: David Eggers, Caldwell district; Tom Trexler, Watauga district; David Boone, Ashe district; and Johnny Wishon, Alleghany district.

Audio updates of annual meeting reports are online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

MEMBERSHIP matters

7/9/20 2:48 PM

M

e

n , s . he e

Think safety: Call 811 Homeowners can make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call — even small projects like planting trees and shrubs. Digging without first calling to mark all underground facilities can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, cause harm to you and others.

Be sure to keep the ticket number 811 gives you for future references or to track your request online at: ncocc.org.

For your safety, please call “811” at least three business days before any digging project. It’s required by law to notify local utilities regarding digging projects. This one call will get all participating utility underground lines marked for free. Simply call 811 and answer a few questions about your location and the type of work to be done.

Remember, know what’s below before you dig — always call 811!

How to lower summer energy bills Costs for cooling your home can make up a large portion of your summer electric bills. Stay cool and save money with these energy efficiency tips!

s

ees, r, e,

No-Cost Tips 78 78

78

78

78

Low-Cost Tips • Plant trees and shrubs that shade the exterior of your home in summer.

• Replace disposable air filters monthly (or according to your manufacturer’s guidelines).

• Use solar lighting to brighten up walkways.

• Replace light bulbs with LED versions.

ual ne at

om.

rs

• Close blinds and drapes during the day to keep heat out.

• Set your thermostat as high as comfortable when you’re home (and higher when you’re away or during a Beat The Peak alert period).

• Turn off lights and ceiling fans when you leave a room.

• Air dry dishes and clothes.

• Use a microwave instead of your range or oven. Or, grill outdoors!

78

MEMBERSHIP matters

Blue Ridge-0820.indd 19

Page 19

7/9/20 2:48 PM

What is the top cause of outages?

If you answered this question by saying trees coming into contact with power lines, you would be right! In fact, trees contribute to over half of our outage time.

That’s why your cooperative has a dedicated, year-round vegetation management program to ensure your electricity reliability by protecting over 8,300 miles of power lines on the Blue Ridge Energy system. Balancing reliability with the beauty of scenic western North Carolina is also important. That’s why we contract with two certified arborists to oversee the program.

Keeping trees away from power lines is an important safety precaution. Trees and other objects that come into contact with power lines can become energized, leading to shock or electrocution.

Even fallen power lines can still be energized, which is why

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Doug Johnson

EDITOR Renée R. Whitener

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR DISTRICT OFFICES

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

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

Toll Free

(800) 451-5474

(for members outside of the service area.)

To report an outage at any time, call one of the numbers listed above.

OFFICE HOURS:

8:30 am - 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday Night deposit available.

Visit us on the web: BlueRidgeEnergy.com +

Page 20

Blue Ridge-0820.indd 20

A clear path for power lines creates a safer working environment for line technicians, whether they’re performing routine maintenance or power restoration.

Members can help by avoiding planting trees near power lines. For existing trees that are directly in the cooperative’s rights of way, Blue Ridge Energy helps with removal and also with replacement by giving members a voucher for a lowgrowing species at local, approved nurseries. Vouchers may also apply to a larger tree that is planted farther from rights of way.

For more information, contact Blue Ridge Energy or visit the Resources tab at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

Deadline is September 15

Susan Simmons Caldwell Watauga Ashe Alleghany Wilkes PowerLine®

no one but our line technicians should ever go near a downed power line.

Teachers: apply now for Bright Ideas grants!

Blue Ridge Energy is celebrating 26 years of lighting up learning in classrooms through the Bright Ideas education grant program.

Teachers in K-12 classrooms with innovative ideas for creative learning projects can find and submit an application by visiting ncbrightideas.com. The deadline is September 15 and winners are announced in November.

Blue Ridge Energy will provide up to a total $20,000 to fund Bright Ideas grants in the cooperative’s service area! Individual grants are awarded at a maximum of $1,500.

Since 1994, Blue Ridge Energy has awarded 580 Bright Ideas grants worth over $519,000 that has benefitted over 100,000 students.

Bright Ideas grants are designed to fund innovative classroom projects that benefit students and would not otherwise be funded by regular school budgets.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

MEMBERSHIP matters

7/9/20 2:48 PM

OWN THE MOST IMPORTANT COIN OF CHRISTIAN HISTORY 1,600-Year-Old Coin From the First Christian Emperor

C

onstantine the Great was the world’s first Christian Emperor.

But he didn’t start out that way...

Ruling from A.D. 307 to 337, Constantine began as many of his reign as a worshiper of Sol Invictus, “The Unconquerable Sun.” But after a vision of the Cross led to his victory at the legendary Battle of the Milvian Bridge, and later to him being crowned sole Emperor of the Roman Empire, Constantine shifted his beliefs.

Believing that Sol Invictus and Christ were one and the same, Constantine legalized Christianity, allowing it to flourish. He merged the worship of Sol Invictus and Christ, creating religious practices still observed by modern-day Christians. And he authorized the striking of this Nummus coin—the first true coin of a Christian Empire, and thus the most important coin of Christian history.

Two Religions Become One

To help convert the Romans, Constantine associated Sol Invictus with Christ: 4 On December 25th, the Romans honored Sol with a winter solstice feast. Under Constantine, this became a celebration of Christ (Christmas).

4 In A.D. 321, Constantine declared “Sun Day” as a day to rest and worship Sol Invictus. Upon converting, Constantine kept Sunday as the new Christian day of rest (instead of Saturday).

Approximately 20 mm

From “Sun God” to “Son of God”

We recently located a cache of these 1,600-year-old coins, each featuring Sol Invictus on its obverse. This was a savvy move by Constantine, who was converting the Roman Empire to Christianity with a merging of religions.

It wasn’t until A.D. 692 that an image of Christ appeared on circulating coinage— a full 355 years after this coin was struck.

As Constantine used the image of Sol Invictus to spread the Christian gospel, this is truly the first coin of Jesus Christ!

A Legend More Than 1,680 Years in the Making

For nearly seventeen centuries, these stunning coins have survived earthquakes, floods, and the rise and fall of empires.

Each piece has been individually authenticated and certified by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) as incredible Extremely Fine (XF) condition—meaning they actually changed hands in commerce!

Reserve Your Coin Today!

Order now and you can claim the first coin of Christianity—struck under the rule of the world’s first Christian Emperor—for less than $100!

But you’ll have to move quickly—only 65 of these 1,600-year-old coins of Constantine the Great are available certified in XF condition.

Hold 1,600-year-old Christian history in your hands. Call now!

Coin of Constantine, the First Christian Emperor $99.95 + s/h

FREE SHIPPING on 2 or More!

Limited time only. Product total over $149 before taxes (if any). Standard domestic shipping only.

Not valid on previous purchases.

4 Constantine merged the celebration

of Christ’s resurrection with that of the vernal equinox, moving Easter to the Sunday after the first full moon of the equinox.

Most coins that survive that long appear flat and worn out—but not these coins!

Call today toll-free for fastest service

Deluxe Coin Holder

1-888-517-8599

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7/8/20 11:34 AM

On the House

Storm Watch

How to prepare your family and property for severe weather Outside

Inside

1

Take objects indoors that might be affected by high winds.

valuables and extra keys 11 Store in a waterproof container at the

2

In a flood-prone area, elevate or move structures to higher ground.

3

Lower water level in pool by 6 inches. Add extra chlorine. Turn off electricity to equipment.

4

Keep sliding glass doors wedged shut.

5

If you evacuate, take pets with you or leave them with a friend. Give large animals in barns plenty of food and water.

6

Trim dead or weak branches. Do not leave them for curbside pickup during a storm.

7 8 9

Keep roof drains clear.

highest point in your home. a video home inventory and 12 Record back up the file somewhere safe.

13

contaminated. adult family members how 19 Show your fire extinguishers work.

Charge mobile devices and save emergency numbers on phones.

Post a paper copy, as well.

a battery-operated radio or 20 Keep television and extra batteries.

or photograph vital documents home escape routes. Find 14 Scan 21 Plan and keep the originals in a safe two ways out of each room. deposit box. Send a printed copy to someone out-of-state. Include birth and marriage certificates, tax records, credit card info, financial records, wills and trusts.

a plan to reunite if 22 Make separated. Designate an out-of-state contact and make sure your family knows how to reach the person.

or store items that may 15 Secure cause harm, such as bookshelves, hanging pictures, gas appliances and chemicals.

Take down outdoor antennas.

Protect windows with customfit shutters or 5/8-inch plywood.

Consult a building inspector.

17 Check your supply of medicines. bathtubs and jugs with clean 18 Fill water in case water becomes

someone relies on life support 16 Ifequipment, notify your electric cooperative.

you use a portable generator, 10 Ifknow what loads it can handle,

7

including start-up wattage. If you connect to a household circuit, you must have a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch installed between the generator and outside power, or the “backfeed” could seriously harm utility line workers.

6 11

13 12

1

4

1

5

20

2 3

19

More resources NCStormCenter.coop A new online resource from North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives provides information on what to do before, during and after storms year-round.

10

22 | carolinacountry.com

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7/10/20 12:47 PM

On the House

a “safe� room in the house, 23 Pick usually a first-floor interior hallway, room or closet without windows. off electricity, water and 24 Turn gas only if you suspect a leak

Evacuating your home

Your disaster supply kit

z If you must evacuate, leave as quickly

z Turn off the main water valve.

Have enough disaster supplies for 2 weeks ready. Keep items in airtight plastic bags.

Replace stored food and water every six months. Rethink your kit and family needs at least once a year. (Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.) Ask your doctor or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.

z Move furniture to a higher place, if

z Emergency food & drinking water

as possible. z Unplug your appliances, but leave

your refrigerator on and set to the coldest possible setting.

or damaged lines, or if you are instructed to do so by authorities. your vehicle. Get cash. ATMs 25 Fuel may not work later. a smaller disaster supplies kit 26 Keep (see sidebar) in each car.

possible.

z At least one change of clothes

for every person

z Take sleeping bags, blankets, warm

protective clothing, emergency supplies, eating utensils and identification showing proof of residency.

boat securely, store it upside 27 Moor down, against a wall or move it to a safer place. Anchor a boat trailer.

z Baby food, diapers & formula (if needed) z Bar or liquid soap z Batteries

z Tell somebody where you are going.

z Bleach (without lemon or additives)

8

z Books, magazines, cards & games z Butane lighters z Cash & credit cards z Camera z Car keys z Clock (non-electric) z Cloth face coverings z Cooler (with ice) z Disinfecting wipes

9

z Duct & masking tape z Fire extinguisher z First-aid kit z Flashlight z Grill or camp stove

15

z Hand sanitizer

17

13

z Lantern with extra fuel

(after storm has passed)

16

z Manual can opener z Medicines, glasses or contact lens supplies

14

18

z Mosquito repellant z Personal identification z Pet food z Phone numbers of places you could go. z Plastic trash bags z Radio (battery-operated) or TV

20

24

27

z Sleeping bags, pillows & blankets z Shampoo z Sturdy shoes

19

23 25

26

z Toilet paper & towelettes z Tool kit including hammer, crowbar,

nails, saw, gloves, etc. z Water purification tablets

(available at drug stores)

21 22

CC08-EB.indd 23

Recommended by the CDC to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and other germs

7/10/20 12:48 PM

Energy Sense

Managing Home Energy Use How to save during a summer of social distancing

By Paul Wesslund

If you want to make the best use of your efforts to save money on your energy bill, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) can show you where to start.

Nearly half of the electricity Americans use in their homes, 43 percent, goes to heating and cooling air and water.

Nearly a third of our electric use, 31 percent, goes to running our heating and air conditioning systems. Another 12 percent powers our water heaters.

In second place for residential electricity use is a grab bag of appliances and lighting. One-fifth of the electricity we use in our homes goes to refrigeration (6 percent), lighting (5 percent), clothes drying (4 percent), and TV and video games (4 percent).

That means if you want to get the quickest and biggest return on energy savings, focus on how you use your heating and cooling system, as well as your water heater.

That’s according to Keith Dennis, VP of consumer member engagement for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

“Turning off an LED light bulb may come to mind when you think about saving energy,” he says. “But in the grand scheme of things, looking at EIA’s numbers, it’s adjusting your thermostat that’s going to make the biggest difference.”

Other appliances and devices consume even smaller shares of our total energy use. Eight percent of residential electricity use comes from a combination of computers, freezers, washing machines, dishwashers and cooking appliances. Other home energy users include a range of devices like small appliances, exterior lights, outdoor grills and spa heaters.

COVID-19 and energy use Even with the recent disruptions to daily life during the pandemic, the advice to focus on heating and cooling to save energy holds up. EIA has started revising its energy use predictions for 2020, and because of business closures and social distancing, they project that electricity sales to commercial and industrial customers will decline 6.5 percent. With more people staying home, you might expect residential sales to increase, and they will, but not enough to overcome the weather. Even with more people staying home and using more heating and air conditioning, the weather is expected to be mild enough that EIA projects a 1.3 percent decline in residential electric sales this year.

However, those predictions could well be adjusted depending on how quickly businesses reopen, and whether they adopt new ways of operating.

EIA predicts that as a result of the actions to control the spread of COVID-19, use of household electronic equipment will increase, and other uses of electricity, such as cooking or water heating, may also increase. Residential air conditioning use during summer months is also likely to increase.

Small adjustments, significant savings During summer months, setting your thermostat a few degrees higher than normal can make a significant difference in energy use. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher when possible. Consumers can achieve additional energy savings by investing in a smart or programmable thermostat.

In addition to monitoring your thermostat, lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees is an easy way to save energy, and for every 10 degrees reduced, consumers can save 3 to 5 percent on water heating costs.

For persistently high energy bills, contact your local electric co-op for a more thorough evaluation of your home and how you use energy. Consumers can also find a wide range of additional ways to save energy at energystar.gov.

Small changes to energy use habits, like turning off lights when you leave a room or unplugging devices when not in use, can help you save. But to make the biggest difference in energy use — even during a global health crisis — pay attention to how you heat and cool your home. That’s where the biggest potential for saving energy lies.

Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for NRECA, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. For more ideas on energy efficiency, visit carolinacountry.com/your-energy.

24 | carolinacountry.com

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7/10/20 12:25 PM

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7/8/20 11:34 AM

I Remember

Memories and photos from our readers Summers Spent with Grandpa Oliver

Childhood Days with Alice Some of my fondest memories are of my cousin Alice and me. We grew up in the 1940s and 1950s on farms in Sampson County, near Kitty Fork. There was a special bond between us from the beginning, but we did not always agree on everything. When we got mad, our parents would make us hug each other. We were soon happy playmates again.

We enjoyed getting in her daddy’s fishing pond on hot summer days. Alice’s mama made our bathing suits.

We played with rag dolls and doll clothes Mama sewed for us. We also played with paper dolls and some storebought dolls too.

It was not all play for us though. When we were old enough, we worked at our daddy’s tobacco barns on tobacco barning days. Sometimes Daddy would take us to White Lake. That was a treat. He would also take us to the drive-in theater at Kitty Fork. We loved the Betty Grable movies and westerns.

Many years have passed, and though in later years we lived two hours apart, Alice was only a phone call away.

In April 2019, Alice went to her heavenly home. She will always be in my heart and I remember her every day.

Fannie Williams, Clinton, a member of Four County Electric

While swimming at night, the smell of cedar and the sound of water gently lapping the timbers that held the pier are one of many fond memories I have of growing up at White Lake. During the day, there were other adventures to discover.

Every weekend before Easter, my grandfather, Perry Oliver, would take me to the lake to prepare the go-carts for operation that upcoming summer. My earliest memory was using a paint brush and can of gas to clean the oil and grime away from the engines.

Afterwards, I was allowed to paint a cart red, blue or yellow — all the while being warned by Grandpa of those “cowlicks”! (That was the name he had given the many Velvet ants crawling around enjoying the spring weather.)

During the season, I loved sitting in the ticket booth with Grandpa Oliver sipping on 10-ounce Pepsi or Mountain Dews watching the riders go round and round the track.

Among many adventures, I was with him at Spell Burger, the glass bottom boat, or just riding around the lake, or helping him around the cottage. It was a kid’s dream. If only it would have lasted forever.

Now as an adult, every time I smell cedar, I become emotional as all those memories come flooding back. Oh, how I miss my youth and those Perry Oliver White Lake days.

Ray Spell, Hope Mills, a member of South River EMC

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

26 | carolinacountry.com

CC08-tv.indd 26

7/9/20 12:28 PM

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7/8/20 11:34 AM

CAROLINA COUNTRY

adventures

Tryon Palace Celebrates 250 Years History is on full display at NC’s first state capitol Story by Leah Chester-Davis | Photos by VisitNC.com

T

ryon Palace in New Bern is celebrating a major milestone this year. Known as North Carolina’s first permanent state capitol, Tryon Palace turns 250.

The Tryon Palace Semiquincentennial is celebrated six years before the United States celebrates its 250th, which will be in 2026.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected various plans to observe this important anniversary of the state’s beloved historic site, you can still plan a future visit. Tryon Palace deserves a spot on your must-see list of North Carolina treasures.

North Carolina’s first capitol Tryon Palace served as the North Carolina capitol and the home of Royal Governor William Tryon and his family. When the Palace was completed in 1770, the Royal Governor marked the momentous occasion with a birthday ball celebrating King George III. George Washington, along with many other notables, visited.

“The Palace was esteemed as one of the best buildings in North America,” says Tryon Palace research historian Lindy Cummings.

Following the American Revolution in 1776, it was the site of the first sessions of the general assembly of North Carolina. It was home to state governors until 1794. In 1798, fire destroyed the original Palace building, leaving a couple of smaller buildings on the grounds. In the late 1940s, recognizing its historical significance to the state and nation, citizens, state leaders, and many others launched a campaign to rebuild the Palace based on the original plans. The reconstructed Palace opened in 1959.

Visitors today are the beneficiaries.

Living history “Tryon Palace is so special because it offers a direct link to the history of New Bern and North Carolina,” Tryon Palace carolinacountry.com/extras

Get a birds-eye view of the palace and a quick overview of its early — and somewhat contentious — history.

marketing manager Zaneta Padilla explains. “Walking through those gates transports visitors back in time with costumed interpreters, artifacts and historically accurate gardens.”

The Tryon Palace complex includes historic homes and gardens, as well as the New Bern Academy Museum, North Carolina’s first publicly chartered school and one of the oldest continually used school buildings in America.

The impressive North Carolina History Center on the site is a good place to start your visit. The Center features rotating exhibitions, interactive historical activities, rare artifacts, waterfront dining and a museum store. It also hosts special touring exhibits, musicians, lectures and plays.

Garden inspiration Garden lovers can delight in the seasonal displays of the 16 acres of gardens and landscapes, which represent the formal style of 18th-century Britain. Thirteen different garden areas showcase various plants. The formal parterres of the Latham Garden and the Carraway Garden showcase seasonal displays. The Kitchen Garden includes heirloom varieties of vegetables, herbs and fruit trees.

Outlander fame Tryon Palace is featured in the Outlander novels by Diana Gabaldon. Fans have made the pilgrimage to the site for decades, but there has been an uptick in visitors from the television series based on the books. Tryon Palace features an Outlander tour (third Saturday each month) which always sells out, so sign up early!

Carolina Country Contributing Editor Leah Chester-Davis (chester-davis.com) loves to explore North Carolina.

Upcoming events Check tryonpalace.org or call 1-800-767-1560 for the latest on tours and events. Offerings include behind-the-scenes tours, the Garden Lecture Series, and the African American Lecture Series, which celebrates the culture of the region’s African American population throughout the centuries, both enslaved and free.

28 | carolinacountry.com

CC08-tv.indd 28

7/10/20 12:35 PM

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Katerina King from Murrieta, California says, “I had hands and feet tingling and snapping and burning feeling. It made my life very uncomfortable. I had a hard time walking, my legs felt like they each weighed 50 pounds. Once I got in my car WHY ALL THIS EXCITEMENT? and my feet felt so heavy I couldn’t even Researchers have found an herb orig- drive the car. With Neuroflo I have no inally from Greece that has been shown more tingling, cold or burning painful legs in six placebo-controlled medical stud- and feet. It went away.” ies (543 participants) to be effective and WHAT DOCTORS ARE SAYING safe. This natural compound strengthens blood vessel walls and reduces swelling “Now I finally have a natural solution I to stop the pain and suffering. can recommend to my patients who sufPoor blood flow in the legs and feet is fer from leg and feet problems and pain. one of the common problems that devel- I’m delighted because previous treatops as we age. Millions of Americans suf- ments were not effective, but Neuroflo fer from neuropathy and chronic venous has worked for every one of my patients insufficiency (CVI), edema, and other leg/ with no side effects” says Dr. Eric Wood, feet problems – millions have these but N.D. are undiagnosed.

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30 | carolinacountry.com

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”

www.captelnc.com

Catch every word with a CapTel phone, and you’ll never be caught with your pants down. A free service provided by CapTel NC is thesolution for people with a hearing loss. A CapTel allows them to hear and read everything the person on the other line says to them!

For more information about the service or to get a CapTel phone, contact Kim Calabretta, CapTel NC Manager:

Walter, who has hearing loss, heard this:

n kim.m.calabretta@sprint.com n (844) 519 4806 (new phone number) n captelnc.com

“ Just forget your swimsuit... won’t have mine! ”

FEDERAL LAW PROHIBITS ANYONE BUT REGISTERED USERS WITH HEARING LOSS FROM USING INTERNET PROTOCOL (IP) CAPTIONED TELEPHONES WITH THE CAPTIONS TURNED ON. IP Captioned Telephone Service may use a live operator. The operator generates captions of what the other party to the call says. These captions are then sent to your phone. There is a cost for each minute of captions generated, paid from a federally administered fund. No cost is passed on to the CapTel user for using the service. CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc. NC Department of Health and Human Services • Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing ncdhhs.gov/divisions/dsdhh • NCDHHS is an equal opportunity employer and provider. • 06/2020

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Carolina Kitchen

Rainbow Trout Fillets With bacon and onions

Bake this fish dish on a broiler pan or perforated pan so that the bacon fat drips off as it cooks. Fresh chives would be a good substitute for green onions. If you’re feeling feisty, use “hot honey,” which is infused with hot peppers, for a sweetspicy topping to the salty bacon.

2 pounds rainbow trout fillets (four fillets) 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided Salt and pepper to taste 8–12 thin slices fresh lemon 2 green onions, cut lengthwise into thin strips (include green tops) 6 strips bacon Honey for drizzling

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

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Spray a broiler pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Place the fillets, skin side down, on the pan. Sprinkle each filet with ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, then salt and pepper. Place 2 to 3 lemon slices on the fish, then strips of green onion.

Top each fillet with 1½ slices of bacon, arranging the bacon lengthwise so it covers most of the fish.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the bacon is cooked but not crispy and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Drizzle the fish with honey and serve.

Yield: 4 servings

Potato Salad With garlic dressing

There’s no law that says every potato salad must contain mayonnaise. The oil-and-vinegar dressing and bright flavor of sundried tomatoes make this salad the star of the picnic. Cooking the garlic along with the potatoes mellows its flavor, so don’t let the number of cloves frighten you.

3 6 ¾ ¼ 1 1 ½

pounds potatoes cloves garlic cup olive oil cup white wine vinegar teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper cup coarsely chopped sundried tomatoes in oil 2 teaspoons capers, drained ¹/₃ cup chopped parsley Place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large saucepan and cover with water. Cover and bring to a boil. Boil, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes or until a knife slides easily

into the center of a potato. Drain. Cool, then peel the potatoes and chop them into chunks. Mash the garlic and set aside.

Place the potatoes in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Whisk in the mashed garlic. Pour the dressing

over the potatoes and toss to coat. Add the sundried tomatoes, capers and parsley, and toss. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Yield: 6 servings

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Carolina Kitchen

From Your Kitchen Blueberry-Banana Corn Muffins

These not-too-sweet muffins are good for breakfast, a snack or even with dinner. You can use yellow or white cornmeal, but yellow offers a fun color contrast to the blueberries. Serve with honey for a sweet boost.

1 1 2 ½ ½ 3 1 1 2 1 ¾

cup cornmeal cup flour teaspoons baking powder teaspoon salt teaspoon baking soda tablespoons melted butter, slightly cooled cup milk egg, lightly beaten tablespoons sugar ripe banana, mashed (about ½ cup) cup blueberries (fresh or frozen; no need to thaw)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a muffin pan with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, stir together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, egg and sugar. Stir the mashed banana into the butter mixture, then stir into the dry ingredients. Fold in the blueberries.

Fill 12 muffin cups evenly with the batter. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly brown and a toothpick inserted in one muffin comes out clean. Let cool a few minutes before serving.

Yield: 12 muffins

Erin Binkley

Summer Fruit Bowl With sour cream honey dressing

This picnic-ready fruit salad comes together with a kick from O.J., elevated sweetness from honey, and a hint of creaminess from sour cream. It hits the spot on a hot summer day!

3 medium bananas, sliced 1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained 1 cup seedless grapes, halved 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced 2 kiwis Dressing ½ cup sour cream 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon orange juice Mix all the fruit together and chill in refrigerator. Tip: add a splash of orange juice to the mix to keep bananas from browning.

Just before serving, toss with sour cream honey dressing.

Yield: 6–8 servings

Recipe courtesy of Sherrill Johnson of Wake Forest

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

carolinacountry.com/extras

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

Nothing says summer like a picnic! Looking for inspiration? Check out our picnic fare roundup on our website. Don’t forget the frisbee!

August 2020 | 33

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where

in Carolina Country is this ?

Send your answer by August 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 September issue, will receive $25.

July winner

The July “Where Is This” photo by Susan Huson, a member of Piedmont Electric, features an old gasoline pump now serving as a mailbox located on Corbett Ridge Road outside Mebane, in the Prospect Hill community of Caswell County. Reader Barbara Scott noted that the late Dwight Phelps, the stepfather of Mallory Brann, created this unique postal port. Mallory wrote that she always thought the mailbox was cool. She also said that her then-boyfriend Steven’s father would often have “choice words” with her stepfather about the mailbox. She and Steven were soon married. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Janet Seal of Mebane, a Piedmont 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.

carolinaartist

Corey Giesey The waters of our coast are teeming with marine life, and Morehead Citybased artist Corey Giesey, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, has a knack for bringing them to life on the canvas. Born and raised in southeastern Ohio, a 2011 move with his wife and two boys to the coast reignited a lifelong passion for art.

Working mostly with acrylics on canvas, Corey also has experimented with surfboard art, murals and wood carving.

And not all of his subjects are born of his imagination: he’s recently begun painting fish caught by anglers in their natural habitat, as an alternative to mounting a marlin, mahi-mahi or other prized catch above the fireplace. What drives his growth as an artist? Taking time to paint every day.

Corey Giesey Artworks coreygieseyartworks.squarespace.com His art is also featured in an online auction, through August 6, supporting the NC Coastal Federation.

32auctions.com/pelicanawards2020

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7/9/20 12:38 PM

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Who can drive a Zoomer? – everyone!

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The Zoomer Chair is a personal electric vehicle and is not a medical device nor a wheelchair. Zoomer is not intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. It is not covered by Medicare nor Medicaid. © 2020 first STREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

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Trimming trees prevents outages Reliable power. To ensure electricity is there when you need it, crews trim trees and vegetation away from power lines.

Maintaining right-of-way areas around power lines helps prevent tree-related outages — especially during bad weather.

While we can’t control the weather, we can take steps to deliver the most dependable power possible.

Blue Ridge-0820 WRAP.indd 3

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You can help hold down power costs.

On HOT summer afternoons, many people are using electricity at the same time. When you pitch in to reduce power use during these peaks, you’re helping HOLD DOWN the cost of wholesale power and keeping rates affordable for ALL members.

JOIN Beat The Peak and receive notifications of when a peak in electricity is expected. Then, simply shift your use of electricity to off-peak times. Peaks usually occur between 2 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.

Sign up for peak alerts at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP, on our mobile app or text “BTP” to 70216. Receive your choice of a text, email or mobile app notification when we anticipate a peak.

BEAT THE

PEAK

Take EASY actions to reduce electricity use during the peak:

Grill outside.

Delay laundry and chores that require electricity.

Bump up the thermostat a few degrees.

Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.

Wait to run the dishwasher.

SIGN UP for peak alerts today at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP.

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