2021-03-EU

March 2021

The magazine of

Get Out and Get

Gardening Starting on page 12

Published by

Protect our pollinators page 16

Find energy savings on the farm page 24

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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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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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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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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

CC03_tv.indd 14

2/4/21 9:45 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.

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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

16 | carolinacountry.com

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2/8/21 12:45 PM

Carolina Living

Accentuate the Positive Reach out to friends for stress relief

By Pamela A. Keene

Since March of last year, Americans have dealt with exponential amounts of stress, depression and loneliness. Issues such as COVID-19, job loss and economic challenges have accelerated the emotional challenges that make life more complicated.

Although some of these matters are outside your control, there’s positive news.

“Few things are more important than how we feel emotionally day to day, including how we feel about ourselves,” says James E. Maddux, Ph.D., senior scholar at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. “Good mental health consists not just of the absence of anxiety, loneliness, depression and stress but also of a sense of positive well-being — the sense that I am a valuable and worthwhile person and that my life has purpose and meaning.”

James says that the key is whether a person views these day-to-day challenges as a constant struggle or as something to value, look forward to and learn from.

“The way you deal with the challenges you can control and how you approach them can make all the

difference,” he says. “We know from decades of research that loneliness can be detrimental to mental and physical health. For this reason, one way to improve both is to spend time on a regular basis with people we enjoy spending time with.”

Extroverts and introverts have different levels of need for companionship and alone time. “However, even the most introverted people need a few close, intimate relationships with other people,” he says.

“The most extroverted and social person requires some alone time to recharge. The risk is going to the extreme in either case.”

Finding a trusted friend or family member to use as a sounding board, someone who will be candid yet sensitive to feelings, is an excellent way to deal with issues. Talking through a problem can help break the cycle of trying to figure out a solution on your own.

Exercise, just getting moving, can be another way to cope with daily stressors. “Taking a walk, meditating or doing yoga can positively influence your outlook,” James says.

Stressors can come in many forms from family pressure to work demands, dealing with health conditions — your own or those of a loved one — or simply trying to take care of everyone around you without taking care of yourself.

“One of the most important words in the English language is ‘no,’ but it’s also the hardest one to say, especially to a loved one or an important person in your life,” he says. “However, if you can learn to say ‘no’ to avoid getting overly committed, you’ve taken an invaluable first step in managing your controllable stressors.”

Pamela A. Keene is a freelance journalist who specializes in travel, gardening, personality and feature writing.

March 2021 | 17

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2/4/21 9:45 PM

Carolina Living

Getty Images Plus

Oral Report

5 tips for keeping your mouth healthy With many people delaying dentist office visits due to COVID-19 social distancing concerns, at-home oral care routines are more important than ever.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health made it clear that oral health is part of overall health and well-being. The mouth is indispensable to eating, speaking and quality of life. The most prevalent oral conditions are dental caries (cavities and tooth decay) and periodontal diseases. Fortunately, they are largely preventable with good dental hygiene.

You probably already brush your teeth, hopefully using a fluoride toothpaste. It’s also important to drink water that contains fluoride.

But you can take your dental hygiene routine to an even greater level of clean with these tips from Dr. Bill Dorfman, an award-winning dentist and book author.

1

Use the best tools An electric toothbrush has the power needed for optimal brushing results and has been proven to be far more effective than a manual toothbrush. Some, such as the Oral-B iO, even have advanced features, like AI

recognition and micro-vibrating bristles, to help ensure you reach all areas of your mouth to provide a deeper cleaning of teeth and gums.

2

Brush at least two times daily Chasing away morning breath makes it easy for most people to remember to brush in the morning, but a nighttime brushing habit is equally as important. It dislodges food debris accumulated throughout the day and reduces bacteria buildup overnight. It’s also a good idea to brush during the day if you eat or drink acidic foods and beverages, which can be harmful to enamel.

3

Be thorough, yet gentle The outer surfaces of your teeth may be most visible when you flash a grin, but the inside and top surfaces need attention, too. While you focus on reaching every nook and cranny, avoid brushing too hard. Excess pressure can cause serious damage to your mouth and lead to gum recession. To ensure an all-around clean,

Focus on reaching every nook and cranny, but avoid brushing too hard. brush for two full minutes, using an appropriate amount of pressure and methodically focusing on different areas of your mouth.

4

Combat contamination Store your brush away from others so you don’t share bacteria.

Prevent mold and bacteria growth by air drying between uses. Inspect the bristles for breakdown, which is a signal your brush is no longer effectively cleaning and you need a replacement head or new brush.

5

Floss and rub On a daily basis, gently floss between each tooth individually and rub against each tooth at the gum line to loosen plaque and debris.

—StatePoint

18 | carolinacountry.com

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2/8/21 3:22 PM

MARCH 2021

CONNECT E N E R G Y U N I T E D ' S M O N T H LY M E M B E R N E W S L E T T E R

IN THIS ISSUE A LOOK AT OUR NEW ENTERPRISE SYSTEM DRIVE TO SHINE UTILITY BILL ASSISTANCE

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2/8/21 3:16 PM

A LET TER FROM OUR CEO

H . WAY N E WILKINS O N PROV I D I N G REL I A B L E , LOW- COS T EN ERGY When EnergyUnited was founded over 80 years ago, our humble cooperative aligned itself to the Seven Coopertive Principles we still see and know today. And though each individual principle holds a different value for our members, they all share the same core impetus: looking out for our members’ best interests. Many things have changed over the course of our co-op’s existence, but we have continued to look out for one another. This month I’d like to turn our focus to the ways in which we strive and succeed at providing members with reliable and competitively-priced energy.

A major way in which we are able to reduce operating costs is by keeping a very streamlined employee base. By doing this, we can keep member rates significantly lower. After all, we are memberowned and operated, which means we’re stewards of their money and don’t exist to turn a profit. And when we have excess, we pay it back to our members by way of capital credits, or invest it in new technologies to keep improving our services and minimizing our costs.

Another way we’re able to keep member costs low is through our rate stabilization program, which helps us protect our costs and project prices well into the future.

This stability is a huge part of why we haven’t raised rates in nearly three years, and why we’re still one of the most affordable co-ops in North Carolina.

That’s something that I and the entire EnergyUnited family are very proud of.

H. Wayne Wilkins

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2/8/21 3:16 PM

new look. new experience.

MO R E CO N V E N I E N C E . energyunited adopts new enterprise system to enhance member services.

EnergyUnited is proud to announce that the cooperative is implementing a new enterprise system this spring that will offer many new experiences for members. In addition to our newly redesigned bills, members can expect to see more exciting changes in the coming months as we launch our new member portal and mobile app in May.

Examples of new bill graphics

Each of the changes that you will notice over the next few months will further enhance member services by providing convenient access to data. The goal of these changes is to make it easier for you to find the data that is needed to make informed energy management decisions.

Wondering how your energy use this month compares to last month or in the same month last year? Maybe you want to find your updated average daily energy use? Our new bills and soon to be released mobile app offer quick, easy access to this data to help you identify opportunities to reduce your energy use.

Look for more information on our new member portal and mobile app, My EnergyHub, in the next issue of our member newsletter, Connect.

This app will be released to members in May. We hope these updates will help provide a more user-friendly and efficient experience for members.

EnergyUnited-0321.indd 3

2/8/21 3:16 PM

THOSE IN NEED

The past year has been difficult for all of us, but for some more than others.

And it’s with this in mind that the EnergyUnited Foundation aimed to alleviate a bit of stress for folks struggling, with a donation of $100,000 across local food banks in the 19-county service area.

The initiative, or “Drive to SHINE” campaign, provides critical assistance to food banks aiming to eradicate food insecurity brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Foundation believes this historic campaign couldn’t come at a more important time, as many EnergyUnited community members continue to struggle from job losses and wage reductions,” said Debra Citta, EnergyUnited Foundation Administrator. “The long lines we are observing at local food banks confirm the reality of our current economic crisis. People need to see these positive examples of cooperative leadership that shine a light on our greatest needs.”

To contribute to the EnergyUnited Foundation, please consider enrolling in our Operation Round-Up program. Nearly 80,000 members choose to participate by “rounding up” their monthly electric bill, and this generosity when pooled together can mean so much to those in need.

celebrating our A G R I C U LT U R A L PA RT N E R S H I P S Farmers founded co-ops like ours, and we continue to work closely with our state’s agricultural industry to build a brighter future for our rural communities. National Ag Day is March 23, but we are thankful every day to serve our agricultural members and communities by helping them save money, improve efficiency and achieve sustainability goals.

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

the energyunited foundation is helping

2/8/21 3:16 PM

now’s your chance to

EMPOWER THE FUTURE The Empowering the Future scholarship is open to high school students in our 19-county service area who are planning to attend a college, university or technical school during the 2021-22 school year. To be eligible, students must:

1

Reside in a home/apartment/condo/townhouse that is serviced by EnergyUnited OR attend a school that is serviced

by EnergyUnited.

.

We serve the following high schools in our 19-county service area: Central Davidson, Davie County Early College, Davie County, Hopewell, Ledford, North Iredell, South Davidson, West Iredell and William Amos Hough.

These students automatically become eligible to apply, regardless of their home address.

Complete an application and a student resume.

Student resume should include any awards or honors received, any school organizations, athletics, community organizations they are involved with, and any volunteer work.

If applicable, please list work experience.

Visit energyunited.com/empowering-thefuture-scholarship-application.

utility bill assistance Are you currently facing financial hardship and searching for resources to help you pay your energy bill? Right now, we are entering the final month of the annual application period for individuals to apply for assistance from the Department of Social Services’ (DSS) Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). The deadline to apply for funding from LIEAP is March 31.

We encourage all members who are facing financial hardship and searching for assistance to contact their local DSS office to see if they may be able to receive assistance through LIEAP. Another option available through DSS is the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) and this program is open for applications throughout the year.

To learn more about these programs and other utility bill assistance programs, visit our website at EnergyUnited.com/assistance. There you will find information on programs that are offered by DSS and community nonprofit organizations, including the EnergyUnited Foundation. In addition to visiting our website, we also encourage members who are in need of assistance to dial 211 for a third-party utility bill assistance program referral.

EnergyUnited-0321.indd 5

2/8/21 3:16 PM

prepare for warmer days with

BEAT THE PEAK Join thousands of electric cooperative members in our service area in managing your energy use during peak times. Peaks occur on the coldest winter mornings and hottest summer afternoons, when the demand for electricity, and the cost for it, is the highest. So when summer arrives, join other members in working together to help Beat the Peak.

To participate in our Beat the Peak program, visit energyunited.com/demand-response.

WAYS TO PAY YOUR BILL! We have concluded a yearlong study to improve member service, prioritize public safety and reduce costs. As a result, the EnergyUnited cooperative offices will not be reopening, even beyond the pandemic. Instead, we will continue to leverage third-party pay centers for in-person transactions and there are many other convenient options to pay your bill, too. Check them out!

EnergyUnited-0321.indd 6

BANK DRAFT

Automate your payments

P AY O N L I N E

Log in to the member account portal

P AY B Y P H O N E

Dial 1-800-215-7315 and follow the voice prompts

P AY B Y M A I L

EnergyUnited, P.O. Box 1831, Statesville, NC 28687

3 R D - P A R T Y P AY C E N T E R S

Visit EnergyUnited.com/pay-electric to find a popular retail location near you

P AY M E N T K I O S K S O R DROP BOXES Located outside of our main offices

2/8/21 3:16 PM

enroll in

PEAK TIME PERKS

Do you have or are you planning to purchase a Google Nest or Honeywell Home smart thermostat? If so, we encourage you to enroll in PEAK TIME PERKS, a program for EnergyUnited electric residential members that rewards you for allowing us to adjust your thermostat during peak periods. When you sign up, you’ll be credited $50 on your electric bill. And for each year after that, an additional $20 will be credited to your account.

To participate in our Peak Time Perks program, visit energyunited.com/demand-response.

5 WAY S T O S AV E W I T H O U T SPENDING MONEY

EnergyUnited-0321.indd 7

2/8/21 3:16 PM

LEAN RECIPES FOR SPRING Have a lighter recipe you’d like to share?

We’d love to see your vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free recipes featured in our e-cookbook!

Send your favorite recipe to EU-communications@energyunited.com.

Please submit your recipes no later than March 20.

If you don’t have access to email, please send a typed version of your recipe with your first and last name to: EnergyUnited: Cookbook Collection P.O. Box 1831 Statesville, NC 28687

L E T ’ S C O N N E C T: EnergyUnited

@EnergyUnitedEMC

EnergyUnited Electric Cooperative

ENERGYUNITED.COM

EnergyUnited-0321.indd 8

EnergyUnitedEMC

1-800-522-3793

2/8/21 3:16 PM

Carolina Living

Electronics Efficiency Crossword Puzzle It seems weird, but it’s true. Electronics use power even when they are “off.” Complete this puzzle to learn how to prevent this.

WORD BANK

1 Down: Use a with an on/off switch when powering multiple electronics to easily manage energy use.

1

Ä chargers Ä computers

2 Across: For devices that require batteries, use ones, which are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

3 Down: Unplug electronic products, like , when you’re not using them.

Ä label

Ä rechargeable Ä power

2

3

strip

4

4 Down: Electronics that include the Energy Star® are the most energy efficient.

5 Across: Many come with a sleep mode or power management feature, which can save $30 on annual energy costs.

5

March 2020 2021 | 19 March

CC03_tv.indd 19

2/4/21 9:45 PM

Carolina Living

Easy Chicken Enchiladas With black beans

Nonstick cooking spray 1 medium onion, chopped

Delicious Discounts

Step up to the plate with affordable, flavorful dishes

P

reparing a variety of meals throughout a busy week can be challenging, especially if you need to cut costs. A winning plan is to use kitchen staples on hand, along with fresh ingredients, to make delicious, affordable recipes.

Another way to spend less is to shop for groceries at discount stores. An example is Aldi, which repeatedly tests its products to ensure their quality is equal to, or better than, national leading brands. Finally, try to stock up on discounted items you regularly use.

These recipes help you make two flavorful dinners without breaking the bank.

—FamilyFeatures.com

Chicken 1 pound chicken breasts ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon cumin Salt and pepper, to taste Enchiladas 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided 1 jar (16 ounces) restaurant-style salsa, divided 10 whole-wheat tortillas Optional toppings Diced avocado Plain Greek yogurt Cilantro

Dredge chicken in flour and pinch of salt. Turn on sauté function on pressure cooker. Add oil; sauté chicken 2–3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.

Add onion, mushrooms and garlic. Sauté until softened. Add broth and let sizzle out.

Add chicken, bell pepper, tomatoes and remaining salt to pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure 15 minutes. Release pressure.

Shred chicken. Stir in butter, capers, parsley and a squeeze or two of lemon juice. Serve with preferred pasta and top with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, cook onion until translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Transfer to large bowl and set aside.

For chicken, season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Add chicken to same skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook 5–7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Use fork and knife to shred chicken.

For enchiladas, in large bowl with cooked onion, add shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies and 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese. Mix well.

Pour 1 cup salsa on bottom of greased pan and use spatula to spread evenly. Scoop about ½ cup chicken and veggie mixture into each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam side down in pan.

Top enchiladas with ¾ cup salsa and remaining shredded cheese; spread evenly.

Cover pan tightly with foil and bake 25–30 minutes. Remove from oven; serve hot. Add avocado, yogurt and cilantro, if desired.

Yield: 6 servings

Yield: 10 servings

Pressure Cooker Chicken Cacciatore 1–1½ pounds chicken breasts or chicken thighs Flour 1 pinch salt, plus 2 teaspoons, divided 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, diced 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup chicken broth

1 1 4

bell pepper, diced can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes tablespoons butter Capers (optional) Parsley, plus additional for topping (optional) Lemon Preferred pasta Parmesan cheese (optional)

20 | carolinacountry.com

CC03_tv.indd 20

2/4/21 9:48 PM

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2/5/21 2:59 PM

Put Up Your Harvest

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Safe canning and food preservation techniques for your kitchen

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By Pamela A. Keene

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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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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.

F

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.

F

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.

F

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.

28 | carolinacountry.com

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(Buildings not as shown above) (FOB plant-local codes may affect prices)

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

Dinner’s on you!

Sweepstakes

Every southern cook knows the way to show you care is a homemade meal. Drop off dinner to a friend in need!

Go online for recipes that reheat or freeze in a breeze.

Win $100 from The Terra Ceia Farms

Carolina Country is partnering with The Terra Ceia Farms in Pantego, a member of Tideland EMC, to offer a random drawing to jumpstart your spring planting. The Van Staalduinen family has been offering mail-order bulbs and plants from The Terra Ceia Farms for decades.

Visit carolinacountry.com/terraceia

by March 31 to enter the random drawing.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. There are two ways to become an eligible entrant: (1) PRIMARY ENTRY: An Entrant must complete online entry form at carolinacountry.com/terraceia; (2) ALTERNATIVE ENTRY: An Entrant may also send a letter with their first and last name, mailing address and telephone number to Carolina Country, Terra Ceia Sweepstakes, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616 prior to conclusion of the applicable Sweepstakes Period.

One entry per person, drawn by random; odds of receiving one (1) of three (3) gift cards (retail value of $100 each) depend upon number of entries received. Entries must be received by March 31, 2021.

See all 9 recipes online at carolinacountry.com/extras

30 | carolinacountry.com

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March 2021 | 31

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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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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.

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