2021-03-BRE

March 2021

TOGETHER, WE’RE STRONGER Your relationship with Blue Ridge goes way beyond paying an electric bill. Turn the page to see how together, we’re stronger.

PERIODICAL

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TOGETHER, WE’RE STRONGER

As a Blue Ridge member, you have a powerful connection with your utility. That’s because you are much more than a customer. You’re a member-owner of an electric cooperative formed and governed by local people.

As a member, you elect the Board of Directors, with one member, one vote. You also receive capital credits — money back to you, those who use our services.

You have access to innovative services, renewable energy options and 24/7 reliable power, thanks to a dedicated team of employees.

Your cooperative also partners with the local community to attract new business, support education and improve the quality of life in our area. This includes grants to local organizations, as well as support to enhance broadband internet access across our area.

Blue Ridge and the members we serve.

Together, we’re stronger.

Learn more at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BrighterFuture today.

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March 2021

Get Out and Get

Gardening Starting on page 12

Published by

Protect our pollinators page 16

Find energy savings on the farm page 24

PERIODICAL

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0 11:35 AM

Volume 53, No. 3

22

12

Favorites 4 From Our Readers 6 Viewpoints 8 More Power 24 On the House 28 Carolina Gardens 30 Marketplace 32 Carolina Kitchen 34 Where is This?

34 Carolina Music

On the Cover Laurie Heimos, a Wake Electric member from Wake Forest, took this photo of a hummingbird clearwing moth in Bunn. “As I was taking a shot of a zinnia, I heard what I thought was a hummingbird buzz past my head.

Lo and behold, he landed on a flower in front of me. To my surprise, when I zoomed in, he had antennae!” Learn more about pollinators in our state on page 16.

12 16 22 26

28

The Fun of Food Gardening

Find your green thumb for the freshest produce around.

Support Our Pollinators

Thousands of NC insect species keep ecosystems humming, and they need your help.

Put Up Your Harvest Safe canning and food preservation techniques for your kitchen.

A Record-Setting Walk

Tara Dower hiked the Mountains-to-Sea Trail with help from Four County EMC.

SWEEPSTAKES

A Chance to Win Summer Blooms Jumpstart your spring planting! See page 30 for details on how you can win one of three $100 gift cards from The Terra Ceia Farms.

March 2021 | 3

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THIS MONTH:

Time to Get Gardening More time indoors this winter has many of us itching to get outside as the weather warms. And in this issue, we’re giving you a great excuse to do just that — from growing your own food to supporting pollinators, a garden is a great way to spend some time in the sun. Also, find ways to be more energy efficient on the farm on page 24.

—Scott Gates, editor

From Our Readers Wanting to Answer ‘Where’ Concerning the “Where in Carolina Country is This?” article ... We received our January magazine on January 5 and the deadline is January 6. This happens every month. Maybe you can start extending the deadline.

Brenda Calhoun, Elon A member of Piedmont Electric Editor’s Note: We know that’s frustrating, Brenda.

Unfortunately, based on when we produce the magazine each month, that deadline is about as far as we can push it. We have started including the latest “Where” photo in our monthly email updates, which typically go out well ahead of the deadline around the 25th of each month. You can sign up at carolinacountry.com/register.

Late or Missing Issues of Carolina Country?

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including a surge in package deliveries, has slowed the delivery of magazines in some areas. But if you have not received an issue after more than 2 weeks into the month (for example, February 15 for the February issue), reach out to your local electric cooperative to ensure your contact information is up-to-date.

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 Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO

Food for Friends Whether under the weather, recovering from surgery or welcoming a new addition, we could all use a helping hand sometimes. When your neighbor is in need, a homemade meal brings comfort and encouragement. In times like these, we think that’s more important than ever. Visit carolinacountry.com/extras to find nine recipes that you can drop off with a friend.

Animal Concerns I’ve always enjoyed your publication and found it family friendly and helpful in giving advice on household problems, etc. I was disappointed/ dismayed, as an animal lover, to see a dead fish on the cover and a dead deer on a back page (“Marking a Milestone,” February 2021, page 36).

Martha, a member of Union Power Cooperative

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

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 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616. 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, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616.

All content © Carolina Country unless otherwise indicated.

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Viewpoints

Please Move Over for Roadside Crews

By Farris Leonard

Every year, workers along roadsides are injured or killed by vehicles crashing into crew sites, even when the sites are marked with bright cones and warning signs.

Protecting line crews is a top priority for North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, and it’s a safety measure everyone can help with. In 2002, North Carolina’s Move Over law took effect, requiring motorists, if they can safely do so, to move one lane away from any law enforcement, other emergency vehicles and utility vehicles that are on the side of the highway.

Move Over is not only a good law, it’s also the courteous thing to do. Our Our crews already crews already perform perform hazardous work hazardous work to keep the lights on every day. to keep the lights on They deserve a work every day. They deserve environment that’s as safe as possible. a work environment And electric utility that’s as safe as possible. crews are special cases to watch out for: the relatively temporary nature of powerline repairs can surprise motorists. A roadside construction operation might close a lane for days or weeks, giving time for people familiar with the area to anticipate the changed traffic pattern. Utility work, however, can start and finish in a few hours or less, possibly raising risks with drivers who might think they know the road ahead.

Here are some things to be mindful of while driving: ■ Depending on duration and location of

equipment and worker position, a work zone may be set up to provide visual warnings and guidance for the driver. These temporary work

zones will have advanced warning signs 200 to 500 feet before roadside work depending on the posted speed limit.

■ Drivers must obey all traffic directions

posted as part of a worksite, including by a designated flagger.

■ On a roadway that has at least two lanes

traveling in the same direction, when approaching a utility vehicle positioned off the highway displaying amber warning lights, a vehicle must move over to the lane away from utility vehicle if it is safe to do so.

■ On a two-lane, two-way roadway, when

approaching a utility vehicle positioned off the highway displaying amber warning lights, a vehicle must slow down and be prepared to stop. If there is no approaching vehicle from the opposite direction and it is safe to do so, move over until past the utility vehicle.

■ In North Carolina, the penalty for violating

Move Over law requirements can be up to a $500 fine, along with the possibility of being charged with a felony if a collision occurs that results in serious injury or death.

Most importantly, don’t drive distracted. Drive according to the conditions of the road. Be courteous to roadside work crews. Watch the signs and obey them. And certainly, follow guidance established by our state’s Move Over law. It’s good advice, and it could save a life.

H

N r l t a

L

Farris Leonard is director of Job Training & Safety Field Services for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

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NCECAd-

HERE FOR YOU. North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are here for you with reliable, affordable, sustainable electricity and a continued focus on local members. We are committed to helping communities thrive through innovation, economic growth and support for education as part of our long-term vision for building a brighter future.

Learn more at NCElectricCooperatives.com.

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More Power

National Renewables Leader Joins NCEMC Amadou Fall has been named COO of the generation and transmission co-op North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives has named Amadou Fall as chief operating officer (COO) of the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC). Fall will help lead and execute the cooperatives’ vision of building a brighter future for co-op members and communities through energy innovation and the provision of reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity and services.

“Amadou has a long track record of success in our industry, and we’re fortunate to be gaining his knowledge and expertise in diverse energy portfolio management, risk management, transmission modelling and congestion analysis, and renewable energy, particularly as we work to enhance grid management and achieve the carbon-reduction goals set forth in our ‘Brighter Future’ vision,” said Joe Brannan, executive vice president and chief executive officer (CEO) of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “He has worked with electric cooperatives throughout the nation, and his breadth of market and industry experience will put us in a position of strength as we continue to navigate a changing environment and engage with the people and communities we serve.”

“Amadou has a long track record of success in our industry, and we’re fortunate to be gaining his knowledge and expertise …”

Fall joined North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives in mid-February after serving as CEO of the National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) since 2008. Based in Indiana, NRCO was formed by electric cooperatives across the country to facilitate the development and deployment of renewable energy resources.

Fall will succeed Mike Burnette, NCEMC’s outgoing senior vice president and COO, who is set to retire in mid-2021 after a 33-year career serving North Carolina’s electric cooperatives and their consumer-members and communities (see “Co-op Leader Named ‘Cleantech Champion of the Year’,” January 2021, page 8).

“I look forward to ensuring that North Carolina’s electric cooperatives remain an industry leader as they continue to deliver reliable, affordable and sustainable power and

pursue innovative solutions for their members,” Fall said.

Throughout his career, Fall has served as an innovator who has initiated and developed key solutions and products in an evolving electric industry. He has held various roles at cooperatives, investor-owned utilities and diversified energy companies.

Prior to taking on the role of NRCO’s first CEO, Fall was an officer at ACES Power, managing regulatory, scheduling and transmission services for the portfolios of ACES members and customers. He holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the New York Institute of Technology and a Master of Science in engineering management from Drexel University.

What is NCEMC? The North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation is one of the largest generation and transmission electric cooperatives in the nation, providing reliable, affordable electricity to 25 member cooperatives in North Carolina.

NCEMC owns power generation assets, purchases electricity through contracts, identifies innovative energy projects and coordinates transmission resources for its members. It is a part of the family of organizations, collectively known as North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, that supports the state’s 26 electric co-ops.

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More Power

‘Keeping the Lights On’ License Plate Donations Top $25,000 The new “Keeping the Lights On” specialty license plate honors the efforts of North Carolina’s utility lineworkers and was made available to North Carolina drivers last spring.

The cost of the new plate is $30, with $20 from each plate benefiting the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center at UNC Heath Care.

As of December 31, there are 1,275 active Keeping the Lights On plates, which amounts to $25,500 in donations to the Burn Center each year. Electric co-op members and employees make up a large part of this contribution.

“North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have a long-standing partnership with the Burn Center, which is recognized as one of the best comprehensive burn centers in the world,”

said Dale Lambert, CEO of Randolph Electric Membership Corporation and member of the Burn Center’s advisory board. “The funds generated annually from the Keeping the Lights On license plates create a significant new component of our partnership, and will help ensure that the Burn Center can continue making strides in advancing scientific knowledge on burn care, rehabilitation and research.

We thank all who have contributed through this effort so far.”

To apply for the new plate, complete the license plate application available at bit.ly/lightson-plate. If you are within 90 days of updating your vehicle registration, the plate will be sent once your new registration is processed.

The cost of the new plate is $30, with $20 from each plate benefiting the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center.

The specialty license plates are available to all motor vehicles registered in North Carolina, except for vehicles for-hire, commercial plates over 26,000 lbs., farm tags, taxis, state-owned vehicles or vehicles with orange and black plates.

Bright Ideas Grants Help Support COVID-19 Response North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have awarded more than $660,000 for 563 NC Bright Ideas education grants that will bring learning to life for more than 137,000 students across the state this school year.

Since 1994, electric cooperatives in North Carolina have partnered with educators statewide to provide Bright Ideas grants to K–12 educators for projects that engage students in innovative ways and wouldn’t otherwise be funded.

Grants awarded over the years now total $13.6 million.

This year, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, local cooperatives also provided support for projects

Pee Dee Electric grant winner Whitney Smith and her students at Washington Street Elementary

that would help students adapt to a modified school environment.

“This year’s grant applications were filled with unique ideas geared to help students learn both in the classroom and virtually,” said Melissa Glenn,

$

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communications specialist at Newport based Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative. “The innovative and creative learning initiatives developed by our area’s teachers are impressive, and we are proud to help them facilitate these projects.”

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The Fun of Food Gardening Find your green thumb for the freshest produce around

By Pamela A. Keene

Grocery store produce never fresh enough? Whether you have acres of land or a sunny patio, you can grow your own vegetables. With a little bit of know-how, enjoying the bounty of your own labors can be fun, rewarding and tasty.

“There are so many reasons to grow your own vegetables, and the flavors are ever so much better than storebought,” says Joe Lamp’l, founder of joegardener.com and host of the “Growing a Greener World,” a nationally syndicated public television show. “Money can’t buy the kind of taste you get fresh from the garden or the satisfaction of knowing you’re eating what you’ve grown.”

Sunlight, soil and water Three components are vital to successful vegetable gardening: sunlight, soil and water.

“Choose your spot carefully to have plenty of sunlight, at least 6

hours a day,” Joe says. “Look for a place that’s not obstructed by trees or other buildings. Sunlight is one of the three basic components to successful gardening. The other two are good soil and having access to a reliable water source.”

Many gardeners build raised beds. By elevating the growing area off the ground, it’s easier to plant, tend and harvest with less bending or squatting.

“Most people choose wood to construct raised beds, but be sure to consider the size,” Joe says. “Use 2by 12-inch boards to build a bed that your space can accommodate. Be sure to make it about 3 feet wide to give

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joegardener.com

Free help from the pros Joe Lamp’l recommends contacting NC Cooperative Extension (ces.ncsu.edu), which has offices in every county, for more gardening tips. “They can help solve pest and disease issues, answer your gardening questions and connect you with other gardeners,” he says.

“And best of all, it’s free.”

Joe Lamp’l, founder of joegardener.com, recommends raised beds for easy weeding, harvesting and for better soil quality control.

good access from all sides. This will make weeding and harvesting easier and you can more closely inspect your plants for signs of disease or insects as they grow.”

Leave enough space between beds for a wheelbarrow to pass to bring soil and mulch into the garden area.

The soil in your garden is crucial for good production, and with raised beds you have more control over the composition of the soil, the nutrients and the quality.

“Packaged garden soil is a good choice because it’s disease and weed free, but be mindful of the quality.

Cheaper is not better,” Joe says. “The soil provides the main support for your plants, so it needs to have the right nutrients and the right texture.

If the soil compacts too easily, it will be difficult for plant roots to thrive.

Amend it with organic matter, also available at your box retailer or local nursery, to promote good growth.”

Make sure a good water source is nearby to avoid constantly moving hoses back and forth throughout the growing season. “In an ideal world, drip irrigation is best, but it can be costly to install into each bed,” he says. “Consider hand watering if you have a smaller garden plot.

Apply the water directly to the base of the plant to prevent wetting the foliage. Prolonged periods of wet foliage can increase the potential for plant disease.”

Watering can be tricky. “Don’t water just because it’s a certain day of the week—you run the risk of overwatering,” he says. “Check the moisture level of the soil, and water accordingly, allowing enough flow to soak the

ground. Then wait until the top inch or so of the soil feels dry before watering again. Your plants will be healthier and produce better results.”

Seeds or seedlings?

Summer vegetables, such as tomatoes, eggplant and peppers, are generally easier to grow from seedlings, which can be purchased at a local nursery or box retailer. Look for healthy plants with several sets of leaves. They can be planted in the garden after the date of the last frost in your area.

“If you want to start from seeds, back up your indoor starting time to have nice-sized seedlings by the ideal planting time for your region,” Joe says. “I’m a big proponent of starting vegetable seeds indoors about six to eight weeks before planting, but continued on page 14 March 2021 | 13

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2/4/21 9:44 PM

you will need the proper light set-up and the commitment to manage the process from seeds to moving the seedlings into the garden.”

Once the soil warms up, beans, squash and cucumber seeds are easy to plant directly in the garden. Their germination time is fairly quick. Be sure to purchase seeds packaged for the current year by finding the date stamp on the package and follow planting instructions.

“Vegetable plants are heavy feeders,” he says. “It’s important to fertilize them as they start to produce. A slow-release organic fertilizer is a nice way to deliver the nutrients on a continuous basis. Be sure to follow the application instructions for best results.”

Top-dressing vegetables with compost during the growing season provides additional nutrients and improves the soil.

Patio and deck

Some vegetables are well-suited for planting in containers, as long as they

joegardener.com

“Money can’t buy the kind of taste you get fresh from the garden”

have ample sunlight. Again, at least six hours a day applies.

Tomatoes are available in patio and bush forms that are more compact and better suited for containers.

Growers have also introduced a wide variety of peppers, from sweet to hot, plus colorful bell peppers, that grow nicely on a patio.

“The key is to provide a container that’s large enough for the roots to grow and support production,” he says. “Containers also tend to dry out more often, so it’s important to keep them properly watered. Feeding regularly is important as well.”

Joe suggests avoiding clay or terra cotta pots that lose moisture more quickly.

“Lighter-colored plastic pots work better, but make sure they have

drainage holes in the bottom,” he says. “Adding a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and keep the roots a little cooler. ”

Patience pays off

Gardening is a lifelong learning experience and Joe says that no one gets it 100 percent right all the time.

“The number of resources — YouTube, online, websites, blogs and more — is infinite and can be overwhelming, so learn to filter the sound advice from the not-so-good,” Joe says. “Don’t get frustrated if you’re not successful in your first year of growing vegetables. Much of gardening is trial and error.”

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

carolinacountry.com/extras Want to build a raised bed garden?

Consider common materials to use when constructing your garden and the pros and cons of each. Watch online.

14 | carolinacountry.com

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2/4/21 9:45 PM

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2/5/21 12:09 PM

Pollinators that call NC home include:

2,800+ 550+ 177 1

species of moths

species of native bees

species of butterflies

species of hummingbird

Not to mention countless species of beetles, flies and wasps that also function as pollinators

Support Our Pollinators

Photo by reader Alyssa Rowe, a member of Haywood EMC

Thousands of NC insect species keep ecosystems humming, and they need your help Many types of insects transfer pollen between flower parts, or between flowers, a requirement for many plants to produce seeds and fruits. At least 75 percent of all flowering plants on earth are pollinated by insects and animals, according to the National Park Service. But pollinators need our help! Habitat loss, fragmentation, pesticide use and a changing climate are putting pollinators at risk.

Electric co-op support Conversations at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission about pollinator habitat decline led to the creation of the North Carolina Pollinator Conservation Alliance (ncpollinatoralliance.org) in the fall of 2017. The NC Pollinator Conservation Alliance has since grown to include more than 30 organizations representing local, state and federal government agencies, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and other utility companies, non-governmental organizations, and private entities.

Working together, the Alliance promotes the health and diversity of pollinators across the state through protection, management, restoration and creation of pollinator habitat.

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives are a part of the NC Pollinator Conservation Alliance’s energy committee, which shares ideas about creating pollinator habitat on solar farms and in utility rights-of-way.

A transmission line right-of-way near the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation’s Hamlet power plant is a part of the state’s “Butterfly Highway.”

“Pollinators are declining at alarming rates around the world. Many natural resource professionals and government agencies are focusing their efforts to enhance and create habitat for these critical species.”

— Gabriela Garrison, Eastern Piedmont habitat conservation coordinator, NC Wildlife Resources Commission

Photo by reader Corrina Carter, a member of Piedmont Electric

How you can help On your acreage

The NC Wildlife Resources Commission and the NC Pollinator Conservation Alliance have fostered partnerships with local governments, corporations and private landowners to enhance pollinator habitat on their lands. Visit ncpollinatoralliance.org or email ncpollinatoralliance@gmail.com for information on how you can improve pollinator habitat on your property.

Around your home or garden

Plant native species of trees, shrubs and flowers to create a “pollinator pitstop.” Visit bit.ly/nc-pollinator-plants for a list of recommended plants from the NC Wildlife Federation. You can also register your garden as an official part of the Butterfly Highway at butterflyhighway.org.

Sources: NC Wildlife Resources Commission, NC Wildlife Federation

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embership M

03 TWENTY TWENTY ONE

MATTERS

Ac tions and savings add up!

Beat The Peak Members participating in Beat The Peak as well as other cooperative efforts are producing positive results!

Blue Ridge Energy members participating in Beat The Peak, combined with the cooperative’s other electric demand reduction programs, have produced power cost savings of around $1.5 million since the program began in 2018. The amount saved in 2020 totaled nearly $600,000, which is almost 10 percent more than the program savings from 2019.

Since wholesale power cost is the single largest utility expense, efforts to reduce this cost benefits members by helping hold down member rates.

The power of joining together is growing! Members are signing up for Beat The Peak alerts by text, phone or email at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP. Alerts are sent when extreme temperatures cause energy demand from consumers to reach critically high levels, which are typically a few hours on the coldest winter mornings or hottest summer afternoons.

Beat The Peak is voluntary. By signing up to receive alerts, members can plan to take a few simple actions during the peak period. For example: adjust thermostats a few degrees, delay using large appliances such as clothes washers and dryers, and turn off any unnecessary lights.

Even small actions help. Sign up today using one of the options below!

•

Sign up online at: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP

•

Text BTP to 70216 to receive text alerts

•

Download our mobile app and enable notifications

Blue Ridge-0321.indd 17

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THE

Perspective Helping Secure Federal Funds For A Brighter Future Powering a Brighter Future for the communities we serve is a key role for an electric cooperative like Blue Ridge Energy. One way we do this is by securing federal funds for local projects through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s competitive Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG). The program funnels zero-interest loans and grants through cooperatives to fund projects that REDLG selects.

Since 2005, Blue Ridge Energy has helped garner over $9 million in REDLG funds for projects in our service area.

Members benefit in tangible ways. For example, companies have expanded to offer more well-paying jobs for local residents. Hospitals are being modernized.

Clean water and sewer projects help residents and businesses as well as keep our environment healthy. Public safety and emergency response are improving with the addition of fire stations, fire trucks and safety training equipment.

This year, two additional zero-interest loans have been made: $1.3 million for land purchase and site development for an Ashe County Industrial Park to attract more jobs; and $240,000 for expansion of the Wilbar Volunteer Fire Department in Wilkes County.

We’re also working to improve local communities through grants to bring broadband for high-speed internet access to

Page 18

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Di

From Blue Ridge CEO Doug Johnson

pockets of our service area lacking this critical service.

We’re excited about our first grant worth $3.8 million from the NC GREAT Grant program to bring broadband to northern Caldwell County (this project includes $100,000 from Caldwell County in assisting funds). The grant was one of several awarded by the NC Department of Information Technology to deploy more broadband in rural areas. We’ll be partnering with SkyBest Communications, a fiber-optic internet provider, to bring high-speed internet access to around 412 member homes and businesses in northern Caldwell County.

Because high-speed internet access is necessary for not only business but also resident’s home lives, we’ll be pursuing additional state and federal grants for other parts of our service territory. Much like federal funds were critical in the 1930s to help with the very high cost to build electric infrastructure for rural communities, they are needed today for high-speed internet access to reach these areas.

Blue Ridge Energy and other electric cooperatives are involved in the REDLG and broadband programs because of our unique business calling to strengthen the communities we serve. I’m pleased Blue Ridge Energy has been able to secure funds that improve quality of life for you, our members, and our local communities.

Membership MAT TERS

2/8/21 2:59 PM

Ridge hnson

Direc tor Prox y Commit tee To Be A ppointed

As part of the director election governance process giving members an option to vote for cooperative directors by mail or internet, a Director Proxy Committee will be appointed by the Board of Directors at their regular March board meeting.

This committee will be made up of three directors whose terms are not expiring and who are not running for re-election this year to the Board of Directors.

As stated in the cooperative’s bylaws, the Proxy Committee serves multiple roles for the membership. First, the committee will cast votes for all members designating their preferences selected on their submitted electronic or paper proxy forms. Secondly, the committee will serve as a proxy for any member wishing to assign their vote for director elections to the committee. Lastly, the committee will cast votes for members who return their proxy but do not make a choice on the voting options.

Director election kits will be mailed, or sent by email to members who have requested to receive this information electronically, on May 26, 2021. The notice of Annual Meeting along with information about board candidates will be part of the director election kit.

Members have convenient options to vote by internet or mail and, therefore, are not required to attend the Annual Meeting in order to vote for directors.

However, members who have not voted by the deadline date of June 16, 2021, or who voted by internet or mail but wish to change their vote, must attend the Annual Meeting in order to do so.

Members wishing to be considered for nomination to serve on the Board of Directors have two options: the Nominating Committee or Nomination by Petition. Interested members must first submit a director application packet, which is available by contacting Julie O’Dell, chief administrative officer, Blue Ridge Energy, at jodell@blueridgeenergy.com or by calling 1-800-451-5474, ext. 3202.

The completed packet is due by 5 pm, Monday, March 1, when using the Nominating Committee process or by 5 pm, Thursday, April 1, when using the nomination by petition process.

For a complete list of qualifications and requirements to serve as director of the cooperative, please refer to the cooperative’s Bylaws available at BlueRidgeEnergy.com under Company>Board Governance>Corporate Documents or by contacting any Blue Ridge Energy office.

Page 19

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Power Out? Check Your Breaker Fir st Severe weather can cause outages but sometimes power can be affected only at your home for other reasons. You may be able to get power back on quickly if it’s simply an issue with your home’s circuit breakers. If your power goes out, first check your home’s breakers by following these steps:

structure or pole, your main breaker may be located here.

If there are no tripped breakers and these steps do not restore power, report your outage to Blue Ridge Energy in one of the following ways: •

•

Go to the main circuit breaker (electric panel) in the house or building.

•

Locate the breaker switch that has • tripped and is now located about halfway between the “off” and “on” positions.

• Next, move the switch all the way to its “off” position, then back to “on” to reset • the tripped breaker

•

Please note that if you live in a mobile home, apartment, condominium or a residential service where the meter is located on a member-owned

Call our PowerLine at 1-800-448-2383.

Have the phone number and service address listed on your account handy, or, your Blue Ridge Energy account number.

Log into “My Account” at BlueRidgeEnergy.com to report it online.

Use the Blue Ridge Energy mobile app.

Text your outage when you sign up for Outage Texting by texting START to 70216, then “OUT” to report an outage. You must use a cell phone number that is currently listed on your account.

Visit us on the web: BlueRidgeEnergy.com CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Doug Johnson EDITOR Renée R. Whitener PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Jacob Puckett

Membership MAT TERS

Blue Ridge-0321.indd 20

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2/8/21 2:59 PM

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Put Up Your Harvest

F

C a r h l

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Safe canning and food preservation techniques for your kitchen

s E l

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By Pamela A. Keene

T

here’s nothing better than using home-canned tomatoes in an Italian recipe, or pulling out a quart of fresh-frozen peaches to make a bubbly cobbler. However, if the only thing you know about food preservation is your grandmother’s jam-making on a hot summer afternoon, you’ve got a whole lot of catching up to do.

“People have been preserving food for centuries, but as we learn more about foodborne illness and spoilage — and changes in our food supply and developments in canning equipment take place — recommendations are updated frequently to provide reliable ways to safely reap the bounty of our garden’s harvest,” explains Elizabeth Andress, Ph.D., director of the National Center for Home Food Preservation and food safety specialist with the Georgia Cooperative Extension. “Food preservation knowledge and techniques need to be based on sound food science for safety; we’re still targeting the same bacteria in canning as we have for a long, long time.”

From the garden to the table, food handling and kitchen hygiene standards are crucial to successful food preservation. Because ongoing research reflects updated methods, Elizabeth strongly suggests consumers use the most recent information available.

Canning

Preserving food by canning presents several options: pressure canning, water-bath canning and steam canning.

Different equipment is required for each.

“Each has its benefits and drawbacks, but in any case, it’s important to follow the instructions exactly and familiarize yourself with each before attempting to can at home,” Elizabeth says. “An important consideration for

choosing the proper canning technique depends on the acidity of the food you’re canning. For instance, higheracid foods (like fruits) can be processed in a water-bath canner. But foods with a lower acid content (like meats and soups) must be preserved using a pressure canner.”

Some foods, such as tomatoes, can be preserved using a water-bath, but it’s important to add citric acid or lemon juice to acidify them. Pickles, because of the added vinegar, can also be canned using a water-bath if a tested recipe is followed.

“For a beginner, we suggest canning peaches or making applesauce to become comfortable with the equipment and the process,” Elizabeth says. “Both use the water-bath method, which involves placing filled containers into a large pot of boiling water that covers the whole jar and lid and boiling them for the exact time shown in the recipe.

Whenever canning, we recommend using a tested recipe from a reliable source, such as the National Center for Food Preservation.”

Yellow peaches can be peeled, cut into halves or slices, packed into jars, then covered with water or sugar syrup before putting on the lids and placing into the boiling water.

“Choose between raw pack or hot pack when you fill the jars,” she says. “With the raw pack, put the freshly peeled and sliced peaches into a clean hot jar, then cover with hot syrup. Hot-pack canning means that you cook the peaches in syrup first, then fill the jars with the hot fruit and liquid before processing.”

Applesauce can be processed using a water bath as well.

Use the hot-pack method for filling the jars.

“When putting on the lids, be sure to wipe the jars’ sealing edges with a clean, damp cloth to remove bits of food that may prevent the jars from sealing properly,” Elizabeth says.

22 | carolinacountry.com

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Freezing

National Center for Home Food Preservation—UGA

Certain foods freeze better than others. “Many vegetables are not suited for freezing, such as cucumbers, radishes, raw potatoes or onions,” Elizabeth says. “On the other hand, vegetables like green beans and asparagus, and fruits like blueberries or peaches are easy to freeze.”

Green beans, corn, carrots and broccoli need to be blanched — submerged in boiling water for the prescribed time on the recipe — before freezing. Then they can be transferred to an ice bath for rapid cooling, drained and packed into containers.

“Once they’re blanched and drained, place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet and freeze them individually,” Elizabeth says. “Then pack into freezer-safe containers, label and store.”

Fruits such as blueberries, cherries, grapes, fresh-sliced peaches and strawberries can simply be placed on cookie sheets and allowed to freeze individually before packing.

Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

“Fruits can be frozen with or without added sugar or liquid, depending on what you plan to use them for,” she says. “Freezing can be an easy way to preserve food.

However, the same safe-handling guidelines apply. Keep your work surfaces clean, wash your hands often and carefully label the packages with the date processed and the contents.”

Herbs can be frozen as well.

“If you grow basil or oregano in the summer, just chop the fresh leaves and put them into ice-cube trays covered with water,” she says. “Once they’re frozen, package them in a freezer-safe container, then when you need some herbs for a soup or sauce recipe, take out the frozen cube and add it to the sauce. You can also do this for smaller quantities of hot peppers or onions.”

Elizabeth Andress, food safety specialist

Back to kitchen basics

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

carolinacountry.com/extras Inspired to try canning? Gather some tart plums, sugar and lemon juice to make this easy Plum Jam recipe using the water-bath method.

National Center for Home Food Preservation—UGA

Canning and freezing have long been used to preserve food. Today’s conveniences have made it easier to enjoy the rewards of growing your own food long after the harvest is over.

“Because of the pandemic, more and more people are turning to home food growing and preservation,” she says.

“Just be certain to follow all the guidelines and recipes exactly. Don’t take any shortcuts or change ingredients or timing. The recipes we provide through the National Center for Preservation have been extensively tested. The key is to be meticulous, whether you’re canning or freezing.

That way you can be assured of the freshest flavors and the safest results.”

Elizabeth measures jar head space.

A safe canning resource

From explaining the science of canning to providing how-to recipes, the “Complete Guide to Home Canning” from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is a safe, comprehensive guide to preserving food at home: bit.ly/canningfood

March 2021 | 23

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2/8/21 2:48 PM

On Carolina the House People

Bringing Home the Bacon on the Farm Energy efficiency and reduced maintenance

By Jonathan Susser

Q:

I own a farm with a barn and a few outbuildings. What are some steps I can take to lower my energy bill each month?

A:

New, proven products and technologies on the farm offer a number of opportunities to improve energy efficiency. And beyond saving you money, many of these upgrades can also make your life a little easier by enhancing convenience, reducing maintenance requirements and benefiting safety. Let’s walk through a few areas.

Lighting One of the more straightforward actions you can take is to convert any older, lower efficiency lighting to higher efficiency solutions. This could come in the form of swapping out incandescent, high-intensity discharge (e.g., mercury vapor, metal halide) or fluorescent tube lamps with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that are bulb, lamp or tube shaped. These latter options are more efficient than their predecessors, and they should last longer, meaning you’ll spend less time and energy climbing ladders for changeouts. Research has also found that you shouldn’t have to worry about them harming animal production.

Pumps Pumps play a big role in many aspects of farming, from cultivating crops to raising livestock to improving land utilization. Engine-driven pumps have traditionally been used for these applications, but electric motor-driven pumps are growing in popularity.

Operating pumps on electricity can be significantly less expensive than on diesel/gas because prices are more stable and electric motors are more energy efficient than internal combustion engines. Electric motors also have fewer moving parts, and they are quiet and easy to use, with some systems offering remote operation. In addition, there are no tanks to refill, no spillage or contamination concerns, and no oil changes.

Farm tools, machines and vehicles Thanks to recent technological advancements, electric farm and lawn equipment continues to arrive. You can

Improve energy efficiency on your farm with these tips.

already, or should soon be able to, find battery-powered versions of forklifts, backhoes, tractors and riding mowers.

On the smaller side, there are trimmers, leaf blowers and chainsaws. And for traversing your land and light hauling, consider electric utility vehicles, which can cover acreage across a variety of terrains with no warmup time needed.

All of this machinery can benefit you in several ways. It’s often cheaper, simpler and less noisy to run, and with no hazardous exhaust or emissions to deal with, it can be used easily and safely in enclosed environments.

Ice machines Cooling and freezing are essential to keeping crops and produce from spoiling. Ice machines may help boost your existing cooling/freezing strategies when needed. The ice can be made, stored and used to keep your products in favorable conditions during really hot times.

Savings until the cows come home These measures should help you save energy and reduce headaches over time, though they may require some behavioral changes and cost you more upfront. Be sure to do your research to see what specific technologies will work best for you and your farm, and consult with your local electric cooperative about incentives, energy audits and assessments regarding electrical infrastructure needs.

Jonathan Susser is a writer and editor for Advanced Energy in Raleigh.

24 | carolinacountry.com

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2/5/21 12:09 PM

Carolina People

A RecordSetting Walk Tara Dower hiked the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in record time

By MaKayla Killens

O

One day at a time Tara prepared for the hike for two-and-a-half months, focusing on preventive care and elevation changes. Tara had to hike 40 miles a day to break the speed record, and she needed help from someone following her in a vehicle to carry gear and provide support.

Tara endured many challenges throughout her journey.

Physically, she suffered from what could have been shin splints and possibly bursitis in her ankles. She also shares how she suffered from anxiety throughout the hike.

“It was as if part of my brain was telling me I couldn’t complete the journey, while the other part of my brain was believing that I could do it.”

The motivating factor that encouraged Tara to keep going was her husband and family. One day, her husband asked her on the phone: “Why don’t you just stop?”

Megan “Rascal” Wilmarth

n September 30, Tara Dower of Raleigh walked among the dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park to become the fastest hiker to complete the state’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) — covering nearly 1,200 miles in just over 29 days. The trail spans the diversity of our state, from Clingman’s Dome in Great Smoky Mountain National Park to the Outer Banks.

Tara, originally from New Jersey, grew up in Wake Forest. Tara has a husband and a brother who are both in the military, along with two loving parents who introduced her to hiking.

“My parents were huge on getting outside exposure and always being active,” Tara says. “We started going on simple walks, which turned into miles and then eventually exploring local hikes.”

Tara began backpacking around 2013, which was when she decided to take hiking to the next level. Backpacking, as Tara describes it, “is essentially gathering everything you need for a hike and going out into the backcountry.”

After completing the more than 2,000-mile-long Appalachian Trail in 2019 with her husband, Tara decided to backpack the MST in January 2020 by herself, as a self-supported mission with no help from anyone following her. Individuals referred to as “regular thru-hikers” typically hike around 15 to 20 miles a day. However, when the pandemic hit, plans changed, as Tara did not want to rely too heavily on “trail angels” — those who provide hikers with food, shelter and other support— and possibly risk COVID-19 exposure. That is when Tara set her sights on completing the trail quickly, as the fastest-known attempt.

He wanted her to know it was OK to stop if the hike was getting to be too much. But with that question, it hit Tara that she didn’t want to stop. She kept thinking about what both her mom and a friend would say when hiking long journeys: “One more day.”

Co-op trail angel On a particularly stressful day due to malnourishment and knee issues, Four County EMC, based in Burgaw, served as a trail angel to Tara.

“I couldn’t think straight, and my brain felt like scrambled eggs,” she says. “I was having a hard time forming sentences and was very weak.”

But once she contacted Don Gatton, vice president of Human Resources at Four County EMC, she was relieved at the hospitality she was met with. The electric co-op partnered with YMCA Camp Kirkwood to provide shelter and assistance for Tara and her support crew.

“By the end of the day, I was exhausted,” she remembers. “Four County and Camp Kirkwood provided me with clothes, a shower, a place to lay my head … it was extremely helpful to be genuinely taking care of.”

Journey’s end Along the last mile of the trail in Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Tara was crying as she reflected on everything that she had endured up until that point — as well as her support groups and knowing it was all over.

“I felt free,” she explains, “like I could do whatever I wanted.”

MaKayla Killens lives in Leland and is the communications specialist for Four County EMC.

Visit mountainstoseatrail.org to learn more about North Carolina’s long trail, including an interactive map and a 40-hike challlenge.

26 | carolinacountry.com

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2/9/21 12:44 PM

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2/5/21 12:09 PM

Carolina Gardens

The New Suzies

Explore an array of black-eyed Susans Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

N

ative black-eyed Susans have long been standard beauties in North Carolina gardens. Whether Rudbeckia hirta that blooms in early summer, or the later-flowering R. triloba and R. fulgida, these Suzies have been steady performers, dependably bringing cheer with their abundance of bright yellow flowers.

Plant breeders have also noticed the dependability — as well as deer resistance — of black-eyed Susans, and as a result, have been busy developing new, fancier cultivars. And with many of these introductions, it seems little black-eyed Suzy is growing up. (She has discovered makeup.)

Below is a sampling of some of the more colorful variations available to gardeners today. They can be found for sale online at e-nurseries such as Bluestone Perennials (bluestoneperennials.com) and Park Seed (parkseed.com), but also check with your local garden centers for these and similarly sassy selections of new Suzies.

Autumn Colors | Black-eyed Susan’s signature yellow petals are beautifully accented on this pretty with streaks of burgundy, bronze and orange. Add blooms almost five inches in diameter to such a merry mix of colors, and you have quite an attention-getter in the garden!

Prairie Sun | A green-eyed cutie, it was a 2003 All-America Selection winner, and for good reason — it boasts long-lasting flowers with petals that start golden yellow at the bases and fade to a pretty buttery hue on the tips.

Green Wizard | Weird. That’s the only way to describe this intriguing cultivar. The large center cones look like black strawberries and are ringed by green sepals — no

Cherokee Sunset Black-Eyed Susans

flower petals. Easily preserved, the blooms make striking (bordering on strange) additions to dried arrangements.

Cherry Brandy | As advertised, this attractive Suzy parades blooms devoid of yellow that, instead, sizzle in shades of red. It’s very different! This winner of the Fleuroselect Novelty Award in Europe shows off a bounty of blossoms on compact, two-foot-tall plants.

Cappuccino | Another Fleuroselect winner, it offers a pleasant brew of hues ranging from red to orange with a dusting of yellow on four-inch-diameter flowers that persist through the long summer season.

Prairie Glow | Looking more like fire wheels than flowers, the bicolor blossoms of this beauty have petals starting as orange-red streaks that give way to bright yellow tips.

Cherokee Sunset | Orange, bronze, yellow, reddish‑brown — these are the colors of this 2002 All-America Selection winner, which boasts semi-double and double flowers that mimic the tints of, what else? A magnificent sunset.

Garden To-Do’s for March Black-eyed Susans come in perennial, annual and biennial forms, but all of them have common cultivation requirements. First, they will produce better flower shows if encouraged by a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer added at planting time. Second, most selections are sun worshipers, but providing a bit of midafternoon shade will help prolong the fresh look of their blossoms. Also, powdery mildew can be a problem, so, for better air circulation to minimize this disease, set your Suzies in an open area and don’t overcrowd the plants. Finally, watch for slug and snail damage, especially on young plants.

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Has your lawn mower blade been sharpened in the last two years?

If not, maybe it’s time. A dull blade tears instead of slicing clean cuts, making grass stems more susceptible to disease.

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Replace winter mulch under roses with a fresh organic covering for the warm-season growing period to come. To sneak in a bit of organic fertilizer, spread a layer of compost first and then cover it with shredded hardwood mulch.

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Rake out the protective winter mulch around hardy perennials and replace with fresh organic material, being careful not to cover any basal leaves or fresh spring sprouts.

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

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See all 9 recipes online at carolinacountry.com/extras

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Carolina Kitchen

P

W

T c r t

Green Beans and Tomatoes

With rosemary oil

Infusing olive oil with fresh herbs adds flavor to soups, vegetables or other dishes. Be sure to use fresh herbs; dried ones won’t provide the best flavor. ¼ cup olive oil 1 large sprig fresh rosemary 1½ pounds fresh green beans, ends snapped, left whole 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 teaspoon basil ½ teaspoon salt or to taste To make the rosemary oil, place the oil and rosemary in a saucepan over low heat. Let heat at a low simmer for 5 minutes. Do not boil.

Remove and discard the rosemary, and strain the oil into a small bowl.

Set the oil aside.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Scatter the green beans and cherry tomato halves on a sheet pan large enough to hold them in one layer.

Pour the rosemary oil over the vegetables, sprinkle with basil and salt, and gently toss to coat.

Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and the green beans are cooked. Stir halfway through if it’s cooking unevenly. Serve.

Yield: 4 servings

C n f 1

Sun-Dried Tomato and Herb Spread

a p t t w b o

Italian herbs and the bright flavor of sun-dried tomatoes combine in this spread that’s good on crackers or stuffed into celery ribs. ½ cup or about 10 sun-dried tomatoes* 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1 teaspoon basil 1 teaspoon oregano ½ teaspoon fennel seed Fresh parsley leaves for garnish, if desired Crackers for serving

S

Y

Place the sun-dried tomatoes in a food processor and pulse for a few seconds to coarsely chop. Add the cream cheese, basil, oregano and fennel seed. Process until combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl when necessary.

Put the spread in a serving bowl and garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve with crackers.

The spread may be made a day ahead, covered and refrigerated.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

*Do not use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. If the sun-dried tomatoes are not pliant, pour boiling water over them and let sit for 1 minute, then drain and pat very dry before using them.

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Carolina Kitchen

From Your Kitchen

Pan-Fried Snapper With orange-herb salsa

The bright flavor of citrus and the freshness of herbs is a great combination for seafood. Use any thin, mildly-flavored fish in this recipe — and the salsa would be good on shrimp, too. Use green onion tops if you don’t have fresh chives.

Decadent Kahlúa Ice Cream Dessert

1 small tangerine or half of a small orange 1/₃ cup chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

Kahlúa® or other coffee liquor* 1 6–24 ice cream sandwiches

Chocolate syrup

1 teaspoon olive oil, plus more for pan ¼ teaspoon pomegranate vinegar or apple cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon honey Pinch of salt and pepper 4 small snapper filets

Cut the tangerine or orange into chunks and remove seeds but do not peel. Put into a blender and pulse until coarsely chopped. Pour fruit and juice into a small bowl. Stir in the parsley, chives, mint, 1 teaspoon olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Pour enough olive oil into a large sauté pan to cover the bottom and place over medium heat. Sprinkle the filets with salt and pepper. Cook the fish skin-side down for 3 to 4 minutes, then turn over and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more, depending on the thickness of the fish. The fish will flake easily when done and be white throughout. If you can’t fit all the fish in the pan, work in batches and keep the cooked filets warm, covered with foil, in an oven on very low heat.

To serve, place the fish on a platter and spoon the salsa over.

Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings

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.

Creamy, chocolaty, crunchy with a coffee spike — that’s what this Kahlúa-drenched dessert is all about! Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts, syrups and toppings.

Chopped pecans Cool whip®** Optional: chopped Heath® bars, maraschino cherries, caramel syrup

Pour a thin coating of Kahlúa in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.

Place ice cream sandwiches on top of Kahlua, side by side, to cover the bottom of the pan.

Pour another thin coating of Kahlúa over top.

Add a layer of chocolate syrup, a thin layer of whipped topping, and then top with pecans. Repeat layers if your pan allows.

Cover with whipped topping, sprinkle with chopped Heath bars, drizzle with caramel and chocolate syrups and freeze overnight. Let stand at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving. *To make this kid-friendly or to skip the alcohol altogether, make your own coffee-flavored simple syrup: put 1.5 cups water, 1.5 cups espresso or coffee and 1.5 cups sugar in a pan. Bring to a boil and then simmer until reduced to about a cup. Let cool. **You can also make your own topping by whipping 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, 3 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla (or a flavor of your choice) until stiff peaks form.

Recipe courtesy of Carolann Kearney of Southport, a member of Brunswick EMC

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, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC, 27616. Or submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe.

Italian Crème Cake Each month, we’ll look back at some old favorites from our recipe archive. For March, check out “Italian Crème Cake” from 1971. See this recipe and stay tuned for more at carolinacountry.com/kitchencorner.

carolinacountry.com/recipes We take food seriously. Search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient, with a new recipe featured every week!

March 2021 | 33

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2/9/21 12:50 PM

where

in Carolina Country is this ?

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

Online:

carolinacountry.com/where

By mail: Where in Carolina Country?

3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616 Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified.

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

February winner

The February “Where Is This” photo by Blue Ridge Energy member Wanda Williams features the old Lansing Infirmary (also known as the Jones Infirmary), located on Highway 194 in the Lansing Community of Ashe County. Dr. Thomas Jefferson Jones built the now-abandoned hospital in 1882, which closed in 1932 when Ashe County Memorial Hospital opened. The old infirmary later served as an apartment building. Reader Nell Baldwin remembers living on the first floor in the 1940s and finding an old skeleton in an upstairs room. A concrete walkway connected the infirmary to the doctor’s house. The house is known for being one of the first in the area to have a telephone switchboard and early gas lighting system, according to the Ashe County Historical Society. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Betty Parsons of Lansing, a Blue Ridge Energy member.

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

MUSIC

York Wilson

Carolina

March’S FEATURED TRACK

‘Strange Fascination’’

By Chatham County Line

This band, nicknamed CCL, radiates its melodious warmth in their new album’s title track, a dreamy ballad about wanting a lover’s touch. The tender vocal harmonies of guest artist Sharon Van Etten intertwining with those by lead singer Dave Wilson create a mystical mood. Raleighbased CCL has a two-decades history as a popular Americana band. Its members — Dave (singer-songwriter and guitarist), John Teer (mandolin/ fiddle/vocals), and Greg Readling (bass/pedal steel/piano) — have performed across the U.S. and in the U.K. and mainland Europe.

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

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Have you recently released a great album or know someone who has? Send the band or musician’s name and their website to editor@carolinacountry.com for consideration in Carolina Music.

2/8/21 4:25 PM

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2/5/21 12:09 PM

Join together to Beat The Peak BEAT THE

68°

PEAK

72

Beat The Peak volunteers and Blue Ridge Energy staff together held down the cost of wholesale power last year — to the tune of nearly $600,000!

Wholesale power tops the list of the not-forprofit cooperative’s expenses. Holding down this cost helps keep rates stable, benefitting all members. It also helps delay the need for additional power plants.

Already, more than 7,700 Blue Ridge members have come together to help Beat The Peak.

Join the effort! The more volunteers who take part and take action to hold down power costs, the more we all benefit.

The goal is to shift electricity use from peak times (usually the coldest mornings and hottest afternoons) to off-peak times. Volunteers are alerted about peak times through a text, email or mobile app notification.

Sign up today at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BTP.

Blue Ridge-0321 WRAP.indd 3

Join the effort!

It’s easy:

1. SIGN UP for peak alerts online, on our mobile app or text “BTP” to 70216.

2. Receive your choice of text, email or mobile app alerts to be notified about a peak.

3. Take action to reduce electricity use during peaks: • Delay laundry and chores requiring electricity.

• Adjust your thermostat a few degrees.

• Turn off unnecessary lights.

2/8/21 3:00 PM

KEEP heating BILLS CHILL! Harsh temps force your heating system to work extra hard to keep up with the thermostat setting. But you keep costs calm by managing energy use.

Help bills relax with these tips: • Lower your thermostat. Heating your home accounts for about 42%* of the typical utility bill. Lowering the thermostat by even 1 or 2 degrees will reduce your electricity costs related to heating.

• Find and seal air leaks. This can save you anywhere from 5% to 30%** per year on energy costs.

• Change filters regularly. A dirty filter can slow air flow and make your heating system work harder. That increases electricity use and your bill.

• Take advantage of saving tools. Usage Tracker is a free tool that shows how much electricity you’re using each day and the impacts of outside temperatures. Find Usage Tracker on “My Account” at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

Find more solutions to keep costs mellow at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/101. *According to energy.gov

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**According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy

2/8/21 3:00 PM