2021-06-SYEMC

June 2021

The magazine of

See NC by wind or by wave Starting on page 12

Published by

Natural gas: nimble, reliable power page 10

Find ways to save energy outdoors page 26

PERIODICAL

Surry-Yadkin EMC advocates for rural broadband access —s ee center pages June covers.indd 22

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The Best of North

Carolina

Whether you’re looking to explore a state park, visit a museum exhibit, find a fun family outing, or step back in time at an historic site, you’re at the right place!

make it a

STATE cation

F

O

PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

ncdcr.gov/DEAI

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dncr.nc.gov

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Volume 53, No. 6

16

12

Favorites 4 From Our Readers 6 Viewpoints 8 More Power 26 Energy Sense 30 Carolina Bookshelf 32 Carolina Calendar 33 Adventures 36 Carolina Gardens 38 Marketplace 40 Carolina Kitchen 42 Where is This?

42 Featured Photo

12 16 28

28

See NC, From the Air! Change your perspective with an exhilarating airborne experience.

Tubin’ the Tar

Go with the flow on NC’s lazy rivers.

New Life on the Water Tanya Binford’s surprising path to becoming a record-setting sailor.

On the Cover The view from a hot air balloon over Buncombe County. From the mountains to the coast, there are plenty of ways to get a bird’s-eye view of our state — learn more starting on page 12. Photo courtesy of VisitNC.com.

CALL FOR VOTES

Last Call for Carolina’s Finest Get in your votes for the best of the best across North Carolina for a chance to win one of three $100 gift cards. Categories include barbecue, burgers and bakeries. See page 29 for details.

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THIS MONTH:

Carolina Country Adventures Typically, we like to dedicate our April issue to travel. But with pandemic restrictions limiting travel options earlier this year, we saved travel for a summer month. So in this issue we explore a smattering of ways to visit destinations around the state and get some fresh air — some very high up, others closer to the ground. We also continue exploring North Carolina’s electric cooperatives’ Brighter Future initiative on page 10.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 53, No. 6

Published monthly by

3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950 Warren Kessler Publications Director Scott Gates, CCC Editor Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor Karen Olson House Contributing Editor

—Scott Gates, editor

Tara Verna Creative Director Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com

From Our Readers

Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO

Place Name Peculiarities I was intrigued by Lori Grossman’s article in the May issue about Tar Heel pronunciation quirks (“Say it Like a Tar Heel,” page 24). Here are a few place names she might want to add to her list.

Excepting perhaps affairs of the heart, Concord has been the scene of no recent conquests. So “Conquered” is not your destination if you’re headed to the city near Charlotte. “CON-cord” is the preferred pronunciation.

Next door to Concord is Rowan County. Dan Rowan of TV’s “Laugh-In” notwithstanding, the county’s name is pronounced “Row-ANN.” And Salisbury, the county seat, is pronounced “SAULS-berry.”

In the East, you will find Beaufort County and the coastal town of Beaufort in Carteret County. Both are pronounced “BOW-furt.” Also near the coast is Tyrrell County, pronounced “terrell.”

Ven Carver, Lansing, A member of Blue Ridge Energy

More Tricky Pronunciations Comments via carolinacountry.com

The best is Mebane in Alamance County. It is pronounced meh-ben.

That one got me when I first moved here. Colfax in Guilford County pronounced call-fax by locals.

Mark Schumacher

I live in Shallotte, pronounced Shalloat. Seems easy to me, but I hear from others what sounds like a small onion like veggie, and a friend in SC who called and asked where exactly I lived “because I knew that even you couldn’t misspell Charlotte that bad.”

Allan Richards

We have a community here called Baton (BAY-ton). News anchors, even the old timers, call it Bah-ton … like that thing majorettes twirl. Sometimes I wonder if it’s on purpose, but we cringe when we hear it.

Cindy Day

Correction to our May issue: A few eagle-eyed readers caught an error in our place name pronunciation article; Cullowhee is in Jackson County — there is no Cullowhee County.

Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO North Carolina’s electric cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to 1 million homes and businesses. The 26 electric cooperatives are each memberowned, 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.

Subscriptions: Individual subscriptions, $12 per year.

Schools, libraries, $6.

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

Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC, and additional mailing offices. Editorial offices: 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950. 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 27616-2950.

All content © Carolina Country unless otherwise indicated.

Contact us Phone: 919-875-3091 Mail:

3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

Web:

carolinacountry.com

Email:

editor@carolinacountry.com

Change of address: Please contact your electric co-op or go online to 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.

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Viewpoints

Getting You From Point A to Point B

By Suzy Morgan

Last fall, I was faced with a personal challenge: drive an all-electric Tesla Model 3 the nearly 400 miles roundtrip from Wake Forest to Ocean Isle Beach and back. The car belongs to my electric co-op, Wake Electric, and I was to make the trip to check on repairs being made following Hurricane Isaias. You may have heard of “range anxiety” — feeling nervous about having enough charge in an electric vehicle (EV) to make it from point A to B — and you may have experienced it yourself. I had a full-blown case of it!

But I had no need to worry. That Tesla got me to point B after a fun ride, alerting me of charging stations along my route. Once at my destination, I fully recharged at one of Brunswick EMC’s charging stations to make the trip back home.

Over the past two years, electric cooperatives across North Carolina … our chargers have been installing EV chargers in a vast network across the state, are available for ensuring folks like me (who keep a wary eye on the battery level gauge) all to use, some can rest easy on their all-electric of whom may journeys. In fact, using funds from a variety of sources — including not be able to $700,000 from the NC Department charge at home. of Environmental Quality and $1 million from North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives — more than 100 charge ports have been installed or are planned as part of this network, making crossstate EV entirely travel possible.

Electric co-ops have taken on this project for a few reasons. For one, as electric vehicles become more affordable, you’ll start to see more on the road. Some estimates* project as many as 25–30 percent of U.S. vehicles will be electric by 2030. For many EV owners, charging is available at home, but there was no clear path forward for charging on the road.

Electric co-ops, which serve 93 counties across the state, decided to blaze that path.

Making more chargers available helps make EV ownership a viable option for co-op members, along with all the benefits EVs provide: lower fuel costs, less annual maintenance and zero carbon emissions.

Second, installing chargers in co-op territory — predominantly rural and suburban parts of the state — gives travelers another reason to make a stop. The charger I used on Ocean Isle may make a beach trip possible for an EV owner, who wouldn’t have otherwise been able to visit.

It’s a way of promoting tourism, as well as the economic development that comes with it, in communities served by electric co-ops.

Third, our chargers are available for all to use, some of whom may not be able to charge at home. Wake Electric has installed 16 EV chargers throughout the communities we serve, including at apartments where EV owners wouldn’t otherwise be able to charge at night. This helps level the playing field for EV ownership, removing a barrier that might prevent some from making the switch to an electric vehicle.

So if you’re considering an EV but still a little uneasy at the thought of bridging the distance between chargers, take a look at the North Carolina electric cooperatives’ charging network. Chances are, we’ll get you where you need to go.

Suzy Morgan is board president at Wake Electric in Wake Forest. She was seated as president of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives at the 2021 Annual Meeting.

Visit ncdriveelectric.com for more information about electric vehicles and to find out how your electric co-op is supporting EV ownership. *Deloitte, “Electric vehicles: Setting a course for 2030,” bit.ly/evs-2030

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More Power

Four County EMC’s Mitchell Keel Retiring Keel dedicated 27 years of service to electric co-ops

F

our County Electric Membership Corporation’s CEO Mitch Keel will retire effective June 30, following a 27-year career serving electric cooperatives.

“Working here at Four County EMC has been the highlight of my career,” Keel said. “We have a great board of directors to work with and very capable employees. They want to move the co-op forward, and that makes a big difference.”

A native of Eastern North Carolina, Keel joined Four County EMC in Burgaw as CEO in 2004. During his time with the co-op, he has focused on innovation and deploying new technology as a means of better serving members and the communities they call home.

Under Keel’s leadership, Four County EMC deployed an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) project, allowing two-way communication between the co-op and its meters.

More than 200 miles of fiber optic cable, connecting substations and co-op offices, also improved communication between co-op systems and allowed for faster response times during outages.

Four County EMC and its members weathered several storms during Keel’s tenure, including devastating effects from Hurricane Florence in 2018. Nearly 90 percent of the

Keel (right) at a Poletop Rescue competition for NC electric cooperatives

Keel at a Four County EMC annual meeting

co-op’s members lost power following Florence, and widespread flooding slowed restoration efforts. Building on that experience, the co-op recently enhanced a storm response process that includes partnerships with five strategic locations throughout its service territory – camps and community centers where visiting line crews can rest and recuperate during restoration efforts.

“With the unpredictability of Mother Nature, it’s crucial that we continuously improve our emergency plans to ensure that power is restored to our members as quickly and safely as possible,” Keel said of the initiative.

Keel has served North Carolina’s electric cooperatives on several statewide boards and committees throughout his career, including as president, vice president and secretary- treasurer of the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation Board of Directors.

Prior to joining Four County EMC, Keel was general manager of Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative in Missouri for 10 years. He also managed electric utility systems for the cities of Kinston and Ayden, and was an electrical engineer for the Greenville Utilities Commission. He is a U.S. Army Veteran and was an honor graduate of the U.S. Army’s electrical engineering school. Keel

also studied electrical engineering at NC State and earned his business degree from Mt. Olive College.

In retirement, Keel and his wife, Cindy, look forward to spending time with their three children and nine grandchildren.

“While we will miss his commitment and leadership, we are in a better position due to his many contributions,” said Four County EMC Board President Franklin Williams. “He has paved the way for the cooperative’s future.”

Don Gatton Named Incoming CEO for Four County EMC Don Gatton, who currently serves as Vice President of Human Resources for Four County EMC, has been named incoming CEO through a unanimous vote by the co-op’s board of directors. Gatton will assume the role July 6 following CEO Mitch Keel’s retirement.

Gatton has served the co-op for a combined 13 years, both as director of Safety, Training and Loss Control and in his current role. From 2016 through 2018, Gatton served as Job Training & Safety Specialist with North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Olive College and a Master of Business Administration from the Florida Institute of Technology.

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More Power

NC State: Hurricane Season Could Be Above Average The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season could see 15 to 18 named storms forming in the Atlantic basin, according to researchers at NC State University. The Atlantic basin includes the entire Atlantic

Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. That number would put the season above average, even given a recent redefining of what “average” means.

This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced its current measure for average, based on the 30-year period between 1991 and 2020, is 14 named storms, with three major hurricanes.

The previous measure for average, between the years 1981–2010, was 12 named storms.

Of the predicted storms this season, seven to nine may become hurricanes, with two to three possibly being major storms.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

Visit ncstormcenter.coop for tips on how to prepare.

Pee Dee Electric CEO Elected to National Board Donnie Spivey, CEO and executive vice-president of Wadesboro-based Pee Dee Electric, was recently elected to represent North Carolina on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Board of Directors. NRECA works on behalf of more than 900 local electric co-ops across the country.

“I am honored to have been selected to represent the electric cooperatives of North Carolina,” Spivey said. “I look forward to serving as a voice for North Carolina on the national level, as well as gaining perspective that I can bring back and apply here at home.”

Spivey began his career at Pee Dee Electric in 1985 as a staff assistant, and was promoted to District Manager in 1993. In 1999, he was promoted to CEO and executive vice-president. He is a past president of the NCEMC board of directors

and currently serves as chair of the Power Supply Committee. In addition, he is a member of the boards of directors of NCAEC and ACES Power Marketing. Spivey also serves as secretary of the Board of Directors of Sandhills Utility Services, Inc., which owns, maintains and operates the electric distribution system on Fort Bragg Army Base.

In 2013, Spivey was appointed

by Governor Pat McCrory to serve on the NC Rural Electrification Authority Board of Directors and currently serves as Chairman of that Board. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration from Wingate University.

Spivey’s two-year term will begin with the adjournment of the NRECA Board of Directors’ 2022 annual meeting, currently scheduled for March 6, 2022, at which time Roanoke

Donnie Spivey

Electric Cooperative President and CEO Curtis Wynn will step down from his current role on the national board (see “Reflections on Two Years of National Service,” April 2021, page 6).

Has it Been 75 Years Already?

Carolina Farmer first hit mailboxes this month in 1946 A lot happened back in June 1946. The Blue Angels made its first performance in the sunny Florida skies. The BBC began broadcasting for the first time since the start of World War II. And Carolina Farmer—the precursor to Carolina Country magazine—was first mailed out to members of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives. In 1969 we debuted our new name (see “A Look Back at 50 Years of Carolina Country,” January 2019, page 8). Through it all, we’ve taken pleasure in sharing stories about the people and places that make North Carolina home. We’re looking forward to what the next 75 years will bring.

Our first cover featured a peach orchard in Montgomery County.

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More Power

Building a Brighter Future

Nimble and Reliable: Natural Gas Plants Most may be familiar with natural gas as an option, where available, for heating homes and lighting stovetops and fireplaces. But North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are using the resource for a much bigger job: generating power while helping to ensure reliability across the power grid.

The North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), which supplies power to 25 NC electric co-ops, owns two natural gas plants. The Anson and Hamlet plants, located in Anson and Richmond counties, respectively, use combustion turbines — large jet engines similar to what you’d find on a plane — to quickly ramp up power when it’s needed.

A reliable resource ■ The plants are used as “peaking” units, providing power during times of high demand.

■ Natural gas generation can also be used to supplement

renewable sources of power when not available, such as solar on a cloudy day.

■ Backup batteries provide power to control the turbines

Plant facts ■ Both plants came online in 2007.

should the plants themselves lose power.

■ Each plant has six units; the Hamlet Plant’s sixth unit

was added in 2014.

■ Combined, the plants provide a capacity of

672 megawatts.

■ The plants use a 1:1 mixture of demineralized

water and natural gas for fuel, a mixture that helps reduce emissions.

■ Each plant stores a total 900,000 gallons of water onsite

in two above-ground tanks.

■ The plants are heavily automated, and can be run with

few employees or even started remotely from on offsite control center.

The Anson Plant

Main parts of a natural gas plant (Anson Plant shown)

Combustion turbine units

Fuel tanks

Switchyard

Water tanks

Control building

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See NC

From the Air! Change your perspective with an exhilarating airborne experience

By Renee Gannon and Pamela A. Keene

VisitNC.com

“It feels just like flying in your dreams … an unforgettable, dynamic experience.”

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Thermal Valley

Aerotow hang gliding with Sara Sardano and pilot Craig Pearson at Thermal Valley Hang Gliding

Sometimes you just need to raise your sights for a different perspective. There are plenty of ways to take to the wide open skies above our state — from hot-air ballooning and paragliding to hang gliding where the Wright Brothers launched aviation. Whether in the mountains, Piedmont or along the coast, North Carolina has plenty of options to get a view from above.

Dancing with the wind Aerotow hang gliding and paragliding

VisitNC.com

In the mountains, thermals — rising, heated air — serve as your passage for flight. At Thermal Valley Hang Gliding (thermalvalley.net or 828-292-7473), situated between Morganton and Lenoir, the pilot for the tandem hang-gliding experience knows exactly where those thermal columns push up, leading to an exciting flight.

Owners Craig and Laura Pearson want to share their joy of free flight with the public, and hope some participants catch the flying bug and return for advanced training to become solo pilots. After a 15-minute ground school session on flight expectations, then helmet and safety glasses fittings,

the passenger on this tandem ride slips into a body hammock nestled under the glider’s canopy and above the pilot.

The tandem hang glider is towed into the air behind a light aircraft. At about 1,500 feet, the tow rope is released, freeing the glider to swerve and move up and down with the wind and thermals as fuel.

The 360-degree scenery of the mountains and foothills stretches to a view of the downtown Charlotte skyline on clear days. The quiet is punctured by just the wind and fun chit-chat with the pilot (and a few loud “woo-hoos”). Passengers also learn basic controls of the glider. The flight can range up to a mile high and lasts on average 10–35 minutes, before descending and landing on the runway like an airplane.

Aerotow hang gliding is “a way families can share a memorable experience and walk away with a positive feeling for hang gliding,” Laura says.

And feel the freedom of flight.

Thermals also fuel the fun north of Wilkesboro at the Sky Retreat’s Blue Ridge Paragliding Center (theskyretreat.com or 704-907-6963).

Owners Dima and Merin Sazinas have traveled all over the world as professional ballroom dancers and paragliders, but, thanks to Google Earth, found a home overlooking the Blue Ridge valley where their passion for paragliding (and dancing) could be shared.

Located at 3,300 feet, an engine isn’t needed for flight here, just patience (or “para-waiting,” as Dima quips). For a “butter smooth” safe June 2021 | 13

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tandem flight, a steady south to southwest wind is ideal. But that isn’t a daily occurrence. With the ever-changing weather conditions, Dima and his crew fly just shy of 100 tandem flights a year. He provides a two-week window to interested flyers, then a two-day notice once conditions look good for flight. When conditions are right, the tandem paragliding experience is worth the wait.

Once in the air, Dima and his tandem partner lift to about 3,800 to 4,300 feet. To go higher, he says, will give you a view of just the treetops. At this elevation, gliders go sightseeing at the nearby Cascades waterfall and to the Dark Sky Observatory in Ronda, as well as gain a bird’s eye view of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

When talking to Dima about paragliding and the freedom it provides, you notice why he has a passion for it. Dima smiles and explains that with every maneuver, the air is your partner, you are “dancing with the wind.”

A view of the Piedmont Hot air ballooning

VisitNC.com

Powered paragliding at Kitty Hawk, Outer Banks

For a quiet, leisurely float above the verdant landscape in Iredell County, check out Big Oh! Balloons in Cleveland (bigohballoons.com or 704-872-7761). For the past 40 years, Big Oh! owners Charles Page and Kristie Darling have been taking folks on hot-air balloon rides to cross an item off their bucket list, celebrate birthdays, become engaged or even get married.

“People have so many fantasies about hot-air ballooning, and many different reasons for wanting to soar,” says Kristie. “Our rides feature smaller baskets — where passengers stand with the pilot during the flight — so the rides can accommodate two to three people for the one-hour journey.”

The couple can also coordinate rides for larger groups.

“Statesville and Iredell County are home to balloon manufacturer FireFly Balloons; we have about a dozen balloon pilots that partner with each other. We’ve had as many

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Sky Retreat

VisitNC.com

Ballooning over Candler

Paragliding near Wilkesboro Kitty Hawk Kites

“During flight you’ll feel like you’re suspended in space, gently supported by a cloud …”

Hang gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks

as 21 balloons launch at one time for group rides.”

Even if you’re not into taking flight, visit Statesville for the 47th Annual Carolina BalloonFest from Friday, October 15, through Sunday, October 17. That’s when the county celebrates the colorful sport with dozens of hot-air balloonists offering tethered and free-floating rides, plus arts and crafts and entertainment. The event raises funds for charity.

Sailing over the dunes

Hang gliding and parasailing

Coastal North Carolina’s fame as the birthplace of aviation carries on through the Kitty Hawk Kites Flight School, with multiple locations on the Outer Banks. Offering hang gliding

along the same sandy dunes where Wilbur and Orville Wright took their first flight, the school replicates the experience in modern terms.

“We’re not just offering rides, we’re offering full-fledged hang-gliding instruction,” says Wolf Gaidis, flight park manager and lead instructor at the Kitty Hawk Kites Flight School at Jockey’s Ridge. “Everyone does ground school for the first 25 or 30 minutes, then we take them out to the dunes for a couple hours and several attempts at flying a hang glider.”

Harnessed-in students fly solo, launching their hang gliders with the wind in their faces, running along the dunes.

“During flight you’ll feel like you’re suspended in space, gently supported by a cloud — a wow experience — before gently landing on the sand,” Wolf says.

Parasailing is also available, providing a peaceful, bird’s-eye view while being towed by a boat below.

For longer rides at higher altitudes, Kitty Hawk Kites has inland sites for tandem hang gliding, where a student and instructor fly together.

“The gliders are pulled up by an ultralight via a tow rope and when they reach an altitude of around 2,000 feet the instructor releases the glider from tow for a 10- to 15-minute ride back to the ground,” Wolf says. “It feels just like flying in your dreams … an unforgettable, dynamic experience.”

Renee Gannon is the senior associate editor for Carolina Country.

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

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Tu

T a r e h t ’ n i b Go with the flow on NC’s lazy rivers

By Tara Verna

Tara’s daughters, Isabella (background) and Rosalina, tubing the Tar River in 2017.

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Margarita Galvan

Most of the tubing crew (left to right): the Verna’s: Lino, Isabella, Tara, Rosa and Leo. And their cousins, the Galvan’s: Sandro (blue shirt) and Marco.

Birding chirping …t urtles sunning themselves …f eet dangling from a bright orange tube into water the color of sweet tea …k ids laughing and splashing …a cold sip of a drink …t he silvery flip of a speckled perch …j eez it’s hot! ... bouncing off the tube for a quick cool, dip …c lambering awkwardly back on …g azing up into a canopy of kaleidoscopic greenery …o h, look! A heron! Ah, the magic of tubing a lazy river in North Carolina!

Something for everyone

I’ve been tubing down the Tar River in northeastern North Carolina a few times. Each trip has been a welcome respite from stress, the pandemic, daily life — in other words, magic. You’d have to work hard to be unhappy on a lazy river, as it offers something for just about everyone.

My kids found joy in splashing and dunking one another; beaching their tubes on large rocks along the way for a picnic; leaping from said rocks or half-submerged trees to cool off.

Writer Tara Verna, living the life.

I loved watching their antics, feeling the pull of the gentle current and the water flowing over my feet — closing my eyes to drink in the sun and feeling goosebumps while passing under the shade of a towering oak. My sisterin-law took a continuous stream of photos with her phone, tempting fate by holding it over the river, straining to get that “perfect” selfie or action shot.

My husband kept the cooler tube close, indulging in snacks and drinks and sun with a little too much abandon, until his skin was approaching lobster-done.

Great blue heron

Although our trip lasted about three hours and only covered 1.5 miles, the Tar River is actually 215 miles long and averages 3–6 feet deep. It winds its way southeast, from Roxboro through places like Louisburg, Rocky Mount, Tarboro and Greenville.

In the past, it was used as a major route for tar-laden barges as they headed to the sea, hence its “tar” moniker. Today, it’s home to an amazing number of species that rely on this river ecosystem, including bald eagles, osprey, beavers, deer and more.

Son Leo (back) and his cousin Sandro

June 2021 | 17

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tuckshot.com

Loafers Glory Rafting & Tubing

Getting ready to float down the Toe River

Miles of adventure

The Tar River is one of more than 40,000 miles of rivers and streams in North Carolina, so there is certainly plenty to choose from. You can go it alone or rent your equipment from a company like Tar River Life (tarriverlife.com). Most of these companies offer tubing as well as kayaking or canoeing. A few allow children as young as 3, but most encourage ages 5 and up. They’ll typically have you park your car at the end point and bus your group to the start. After you finish, you’ll have a short walk back to your car.

You’ll find something unique about all of them. The Tar River trip offers a high bank at the end and if the water is deep enough, my kids love running and cannon-balling into the river. I love the stone, graffiti-covered wall at the end where we take our “after” shot, imagining we look like a rock band rather than simply drippy, tired and sunburned — but happy.

After coping with the stresses of a pandemic for more than a year, it might be just what the doctor ordered to capture a little vitamin D and downtime on a lazy river. Megan Greer, general manager of Tar River Life, finds her own version of healing in the river.

“As a staff, we tend to take the river for granted,” she says. “But after this past year, it has rekindled our passion to see people enjoy it so much — we feel so much gratitude.”

Tubing rapids on the Tuckasegee River

Tubing tips Leave your keys in your car, or attach a spare in your wheel well with a magnetic clip.

Make a day of it by arriving late morning.

Bring your own rope to tie off of a bank for lunch.

Take your time and be “lazy.”

Rent a cooler tube. You’ll supply the cooler and munchies. But you can attach it to your tube and have a ready supply of drinks (no glass) and sandwiches along the way.

Rent a dry pouch for your phone.

Wear sunscreen and sunglasses.

Keep a set of dry clothes in your car.

Tara Verna is the creative director for Carolina Country.

Plan your trip

With thousands of miles of river to explore across the state, there’s likely a lazy float waiting to be had not far from you. Here are a few outfitters to help get you on the water — call ahead to confirm availability.

MOUNTAINS

Deep Creek Smoky Mountain Tubing, Bryson City bit.ly/deepcreektubing | 828-488-6055 French Broad River Zen Tubing, Asheville zentubing.com | 855-936-8823 Green River Silver Creek Tubing, Saluda silvercreektubing.com | 828-894-2331

Toe River Loafers Glory Rafting & Tubing, Bakersville bit.ly/toerivertubing | 828-688-9290 Tuckasegee River Dillsboro River Company, Sylva bit.ly/tuckasegeetubing | 828-507-2428 Yadkin River North Carolina River Riders, Ronda northcarolinariverriders.com | 336-244-6220 PIEDMONT

New River High Mountain Expeditions, Boone bit.ly/hme-tubing | 828-202-1981

Dan River Dan River Adventures, Stoneville bit.ly/danrivertubing | 336-548-0080

Oconaluftee River Smoky Mountain Tube & Raft, Cherokee cherokeetubeandraft.com | 828-497-4545

Tar River Tar River Life, Bunn tarriverlife.com | 919-496-9237

Cousin Sandro leaps off the Tar River’s banks, at the end of our journey.

carolinacountry.com/extras Watch videos from rivers around the state to get a feel for what tubing has to offer.

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Member Moment: Wine industry thriving in the Yadkin Valley region

By Wendy Wood

I

n 2003, the Yadkin Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA) became North Carolina’s first federally approved AVA. Since that time, vineyards and wineries have popped up all across the region, and the state, sparking a new tourism draw for locals and visitors.

The Yadkin Valley AVA region has more than 35 vineyards and wineries featuring wines from locally-grown grapes, both native muscadine and scuppernong, as well as a number of European vari-

eties. Wine trails have been created, wine festivals are held annually in several towns, and music and art events as well as outdoor recreation opportunities abound at and near these locations.

Being a rural power provider in five counties, it is no surprise that a number of vineyards and wineries in the Yadkin Valley are members of Surry-Yadkin EMC. In fact, four of the five counties served by SYEMC have vineyards which are members.

Each vineyard has its own unique

See Wine, page F A publication for Surry-Yadkin EMC members

June 2021

Courtesy of Jones von Drehle Ripe grapes are harvested among the vines at Jones von Drehle in Wilkes County, one of SYEMC’s members. The vineyard also features a beautiful pond and water elements.

Aerial tree trimming takes place Wendy Wood | SYEMC Photos to left: On April 26, Chase Lail of Treeline Helicopters Inc. trimmed the transmission line right-of-way between Pipers Gap and Kelly Hutchens substations. The aerial tree trimming was a first for Surry-Yadkin EMC. It took about 3½ hours for the job, which typically takes a ground crew two to three weeks. This type of aerial trimming is used by other power companies and cooperatives in especially rough terrain like some of the rights-of-way in SYEMC’s service area. This form of trimming improves safety due to the rough terrain a ground crew could encounter and is more time and cost efficient. A chipping crew went back behind the helicopter to clean up the brush along driveways and in yards where needed. For safety, a letter was delivered to all property owners along the right-of-way the week prior to the trimming, and SYEMC employees kept observers at a distance during the trimming.

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ConnectWith: Employees making a difference for SYEMC members

Benge focuses on what’s best for others

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hen Debbie Benge joined the Surry-Yadkin EMC staff in 2009, she came with a wealth of knowledge and an eagerness to serve the members of the cooperative.

Benge previously had worked for 24 years as an employment consultant with the North Carolina Employment Security Commission, as well as 10 years following that with Surry Community College’s Career Center as a cooperative education coordinator. In those roles, she helped the public and students with resumes, job applications, job placement, interview preparation and internship programs.

When she retired in 2009 from SCC, she had planned on baking full-time, something she had done on the side for 15 years, and then working part-time somewhere. But those plans changed quickly.

As she completed her time at SCC, she learned of a parttime position opening at Surry-Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation. Benge applied and was selected to fill the position in human resources handling payroll and other HR tasks, so she went back to work only a week after her retirement.

In July 2011, the HR position became full-time, and when an opening was announced for an executive assistant in 2016, Benge applied and got the job, a role she still maintains.

“Surry-Yadkin is a great place to work, and I work with wonderful people,” said Benge. “I’ve always enjoyed working with people and clerical/administrative work

B Surry-Yadkin-0621.indd 2

has long been a part of what I did.”

She said two things have driven her throughout her career. “I have always wanted to help others better themselves and be all they could be, and the second thing is that it has always been important to me to treat everyone fairly, with courtesy and respect.

“I feel these positions I’ve held have allowed me to do that and grow with that. God has been so good to my family and to me; I have just always wanted to share any gifts or knowledge He has blessed me with to help others.”

Benge was born in Washington, D.C., but when she was a small child, her parents returned to Mount Airy. “Financially we didn’t have much, but my parents made up for it with love and taught me to respect others and settle for nothing less than doing my best,” she said.

Recently, Benge was nominated for and named the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce’s Administrative Professional of the Year.

In the award announcement, it read, “As executive assistant to the executive vice president and general manager as well as the board of directors, this lady has a multitude of traits and skills that make her a great administrator. One of her greatest strengths is the ability to adapt to any situation and think quickly and efficiently to solve any problem thrown her way.

“She remains calm through any situation whether it be major outages, board meetings, or other tasks that need to

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syemc.com

Manager's Message | Greg Puckett

Broadband expansion needed, but not at expense of members

Dear Valued Member,

While the pandemic has shone a bright light on the need for expanded rural broadband, the issue is something that we in rural areas have prioritized for many years. As the executive vice president and general manager of Surry-Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation, an electric cooperative serving rural members in Surry, Yadkin, Stokes, Wilkes and Forsyth counties, I am grateful that more than $140 million in state and federal funding has recently been awarded to connect unserved and underserved rural residents in our state. It is critical that rural broadband expand quickly, efficiently and fairly — and that as grant funding creates a new market for broadband providers in our communities, we join together to reject efforts by for-profit special interests that would shift costs to North Carolina’s rural consumers.

Rural communities have long awaited high-speed connections because for-profit cable providers have been unwilling to invest in broadband infrastructure in sparsely populated areas.

Despite that challenge, electric cooperatives for years have supported efforts to close the digital divide by exploring local solutions and facilitating expansion of access to broadband providers to utility poles quickly and at a fair rate. Several years ago, Surry-

Yadkin EMC agreed to lower pole attachment costs for other utilities, such as cable and telephone providers, in order to benefit the expansion of internet to our members and the communities we serve.

Unfortunately, with the backing of a Fortune 100, for-profit cable company, a bill has been filed in the North Carolina legislature that would shift costs to “make ready” utility poles for new broadband infrastructure to electric co-ops and their members.

Should this bill pass, special interests would receive more funding for their shareholders at the expense of rural consumers and further burden the very people who expanded rural broadband is intended to help.

This proposed policy is wrong. Notfor-profit co-ops — and their members — should not be expected to subsidize broadband deployment costs, especially after more than $140 million in funding has been awarded for broadband expansion in North Carolina. Shifting the cost of pole replacements to the electric cooperatives could lead to higher electric rates for rural residents who should be benefiting from the broadband deployment. Broadband costs should be kept separate from electric rates so that electric cooperative members aren’t unfairly burdened.

This policy also breaks precedent. In January, the Federal Communications

Commission declined to issue the cost-shifting rules that the special interests seek, noting that the issue is complex and requires more thoughtful consideration.

It is in the best interest of rural people and communities to ensure that new federal and state funding is applied as intended to cover expanded access, and that rural co-op members are not burdened with unfair costs.

As not-for-profit, community-owned organizations, electric cooperatives remain focused on keeping costs as low as possible for members and supporting efforts that bring opportunity and prosperity to our communities.

Deploying broadband is no exception.

We look forward to seeing broadband access extend to unserved areas in North Carolina. We will continue to work with policy makers and those who are deploying broadband to ensure that access is expanded to our entire state, while advocating against policy changes that could burden rural consumers with unfair costs.

Cooperatively yours,

Greg Puckett Executive Vice President & General Manager

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President's Message | Lee Von “Toby” Speaks

Community meeting planned; 80th Annual Meeting slated

Dear Fellow Member,

In order to continue protecting the health and safety of Surry-Yadkin EMC’s members and employees and in an effort to curtail expenses, this year’s 80th Annual Meeting of SYEMC will take place in a business meeting format.

The Annual Business Meeting will be held Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at SYEMC’s headquarters in Dobson, with an option for members to watch the meeting virtually. The business meeting format will help us avoid the cost of a traditional meeting, which included facility rental, labor, food, entertainment, equipment and insurance.

Elections for directors will be held through mail-in and electronic ballots, administered by a third-party vendor, Survey & Ballot Systems. In 2020, the Annual Meeting and elections had a much larger participation than in pre-

vious years when a traditional Annual Meeting was held, with 2,533 ballots returned.

More details about when and how to vote will be provided in upcoming editions of Carolina Country as well as mailed and/or emailed to eligible members of the cooperative.

Our board and staff miss the opportunity to interact in person with our members at the traditional annual meeting, but with the advanced planning needed for a traditional Annual Meeting, we felt the COVID-19 numbers were still too high and the state had not adjusted large gathering permission with enough time to plan such an event.

Instead, at the end of August, we are planning a floating Community Meeting, something we had originally planned in 2020 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced us to cancel. The community meeting will

Benge From page B

be completed at once. You can always find her with a bright pair of reading glasses that match her outfit working away on her task with a smile on her face.”

The announcement explained that Benge “is always more than willing to help her co-workers in different departments accomplish whatever the task may be for the cooperative. She has a very broad skillset and knowledge base from the different roles she has held, as well as previous work from SCC and the Employment Security Commission, that are an asset to our organization.

“Her personality shines through her work every day. She is best known for her strong writing skills with the unique capability to write as if you can hear her speaking with you in person, even with the most complex emails. She is very outgoing, yet always professional. She communicates with employees, vendors and attorneys on a regular basis without any hesitation.”

For the award announcement, SYEMC Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Puckett said of Benge, “I’m grateful to have Debbie at SYEMC. She is an exemplary employee that puts forth 110-percent effort each

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be held Aug. 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Salem Baptist Church, 430 Rockford Road, Dobson. It will give members a chance to talk one-on-one with key staff and directors about topics such as rates, capital credits, infrastructure projects, understanding a bill, Operation Round Up and more.

We look forward to the opportunities we have to engage and interact with our members as COVID-19 restrictions begin lifting. If there is anything we can do to assist you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 336-356-8241.

Cooperatively yours,

Lee Von “Toby” Speaks President, SYEMC Board of Directors

and every day for the membership. Her previous knowledge has played a key role here for the various duties she has held working for human resources, payroll, the board of directors, as well as the company attorneys.

“She is always willing to help in any way she can to serve our members,” he said. “If you visit her office, you can expect to hear the tunes of the Eagles, the Beatles, or the Rolling Stones. She is relatable and has the ability to remain professional while still having everyone in the room laughing. It is her unique personality. Eleven years ago, when Debbie Benge came to work for SYEMC on a parttime basis, we were very fortunate, and I’m happy that she agreed to join us shortly thereafter full-time.”

Benge lives in Mount Airy with her husband, Ricky.

Their children, Katie McCrary and David Benge, are both married with two children each, ranging in age from 8 months to 7 years old.

Time doesn’t allow for Benge to operate her baking business anymore, but she said now she enjoys baking for her grandchildren.

“I will eventually retire (again), but I feel certain that a way will be provided for me to continue to be of service to others, whether it be paid, unpaid, or on a volunteer basis … it’s just what I know and who I am.”

June 2021

5/10/21 4:11 PM

Meet your directors Stephen Joyce — District 6

Stephen Joyce, director for District 6, has been a member of Surry-Yadkin EMC for 32 years. He has served on the board of directors for almost six years. He serves on the board’s Ethics Committee and has previously served on the co-op building committee as well as the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation’s Nominations Committee.

His awards and certificates include Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and several courses taken toward the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

He is a full-time employee with Jewel Machinery Inc. in forestry and construction equipment sales. He previously has worked with equipment dealers representing John Deere and other equipment brands. He farms, raising beef cattle, and owns a landscaping mulch sales yard.

“Serving on this board has been a privilege, in representing my district and to be a part of a member-owned cooperative,” Joyce said. “Serving in this capacity has been a great experience. I have been able to continue my education in this field, gaining knowledge of the rural electric industry.

“As we travel the roads of growing technology, with solar options, battery storage, and upgrading our system to meet the needs of our communities, it requires that a director keep up with the trends and knowledge of the latest technology that may be offered. I am fascinated with how far we have come in the rural electric industry in my 32 years as a member.

“Decisions made by our board for the benefit of our members never comes lightly. We have experienced some tough concerns along the way, with rates, system

upgrades, and other factors that can affect our determination to provide quality electric service. Through it all, our co-op directors have always kept our members’ safety first in mind, along with cost to the membership, both now and as we look into the future of the co-op,” he said.

“Meeting and listening to our members’ concerns for our cooperative is very important to me. Also, being a part of making decisions that impact all of us is a huge responsibility that I take very seriously as the cooperative grows and as we move into the future.”

Joyce is married and has two children. He enjoys traveling with his family on vacation when he can. For enjoyment, he looks forward to time out on his tractor, doing the work that is required around the house and on the farm. He attends Volunteer Primitive Baptist Church, where is he actively involved.

David Pendry — District 9

David Pendry has been a member of Surry-Yadkin EMC for 39 years. He has served on the board of directors for 16 years, representing District 9, which covers eastern Yadkin County and SYEMC’s service area in Forsyth County. He serves on the board’s Ethics Committee.

His awards and certificates include Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD), Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and Director Gold Credential (DGC).

After farming full-time for 20 years and working parttime delivering fuel oil, which he previously did full-time for 29 years, Pendry recently took a job hauling equipment for a Yadkin County company that does stream and wetland restoration. He also teaches Sunday school part-time at his church, Northwood Baptist Church in Yadkinville.

“It has been a privilege to represent the members in District 9 over the past 16 years,” said Pendry. “As a member myself, I appreciate how much the co-op does for us. When there are power outages, I know the workers at Surry-Yadkin will be doing their best to get the power on as quickly and safely as possible. The members are truly Surry-Yadkin EMC employees’ number one concern.

“As long as I can remember, my family has been a

member of SYEMC. My father was grateful way back when power was offered to our rural area. I have seen this cooperative grow over the years and serve its members well.”

Pendry is married with four children and one grandchild on the way. He enjoys horseback riding and raises beef cows. He is out on the tractor most evenings doing one thing or the other. He said it allows him to get a lot of work done on the farm, but it also provides time out in the fresh air and an opportunity to enjoy the Lord’s creations.

June 2021

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syemc.com

Member Connections is a monthly publication intended for the members and friends of Surry-Yadkin EMC.

Board of Directors Lee Von (Toby) Speaks, President Willard Swift, Vice President Karoline Overby, Secretary David Miller, Treasurer Wendy Wood | SYEMC Divine Llama Vineyards in East Bend combines beautiful scenery, wine and llamas for a family-friendly way to spend the day. Picnics are encouraged, and sometimes food trucks are on site.

• Stony Knoll Vineyards, stonyknollvineyards.com

Wine From page A

draw, from llamas, to music and food trucks on the weekends, to cabin rentals and fine dining, to overnight camping opportunities and more.

Here is a list of the vineyards and wineries which are Surry-Yadkin EMC members, as well as their website information so you can find up-to-date hours and event information.

Surry County • Golden Road Vineyards, grvwines.com • Herrera Vineyards, herreravineyards.com • Round Peak Vineyards, roundpeak.com • Serre Vineyards, serrevineyards.com • Shelton Vineyards, sheltonvineyards.com

Yadkin County • Cellar 4201, cellar4201.com • Divine Llama Vineyards, divinellamavineyards.com • RagApple Lassie Vineyards, ragapplelassie.com • Sanders Ridge Vineyard & Winery, sandersridge.com

Board Members Brenda Hardy Stephen Hutson David Pendry Alvin Reid, Jr. Eddie Campbell Stephen Joyce Greg Puckett, Executive Vice President and General Manager Wendy Wood, Editor

Surry-Yadkin EMC Forsyth County 510 South Main Street • Medaloni Cellars, Dobson, North Carolina 27017 medalonicellars.com 336.356.8241 | 800.682.5903 • Westbend Winery and Brewery, www.syemc.com westbendwineryandbrewery.

Office Hours com Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Wilkes County To report an outage, day or night • Jones von Drehle Vineyards, 336.356.8241 | 800.682.5903 jonesvondrehle.com An Equal Opportunity Employer • MenaRick Vineyard & Winery, menarick.com Connect with SYEMC syemc @SurryYadkinEMC SurryYadkinEMC

Wendy Wood | SYEMC Shelton Vineyards in Surry County features ponds and beautiful scenery for visitors to its tasting room and restaurant, Harvest Grill.

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Serving the Yadkin Valley since 1940.

June 2021

5/10/21 4:11 PM

Carolina Living

Lake and Pool Electrical Safety Crossword Water and electricity never mix! When you’re cooling off in the water, remember to practice electrical safety. Complete the crossword puzzle, then check your answers against the key at the bottom.

1 2

3

1 Down: When possible, use operated devices when near a lake or swimming pool.

2 Across: Never bring devices near a lake or pool. If they come in contact with water, electric shock could occur. Devices should be kept at least 10 feet away from water sources.

t

3 Down: If you hear , immediately exit the water. Storms may be near.

4

4 Across: All outdoor electrical outlets should be covered to keep them .

Answers: 1) Down: battery 2) Across: electrical 3) Down: thunder 4) Across: Dry June 2021 | 23

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5/10/21 1:48 PM

Carolina Living

Cooking Your Favorite Seafood Stumped on timing?

Use the 10-minute rule.

Pesto Salmon Sheet Pan

C

rab legs for a birthday. Scallops for an anniversary.

Salmon for when family are in town. Many people enjoy eating seafood at restaurants as go-to celebratory meals.

However, cooking seafood at home can be intimidating.

But seafood dishes are surprisingly simple to prepare.

“Whether it is shellfish or a fillet of your favorite fish variety, seafood makes any day special,” said Linda Cornish, president of Seafood Nutrition Partnership.

“Plus, you can feel good about enjoying immune-boosting food rich in vitamins A, B and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and minerals such as calcium, selenium, iron, zinc and more.”

Seafood Nutrition Partnership and its partners from the Eat Seafood America! campaign offer these kitchen tips:

½ acorn squash, cubed ½ medium red onion, chunked 2 cups baby. multicolored potatoes, halved ½ cauliflower head, chunked

The 10-minute rule Measure the fish at its thickest point. Cook it on medium-high (about 375 degrees) for 10 minutes per inch, turning halfway through the cooking time. A thin fish like sole or pollock cooks in about 4 to 5 minutes, while a thicker tuna steak might be 15 minutes.

Yield: 4–6 servings

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste 1 side of salmon or 4 fillets ½ cup pesto

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

On a large sheet pan, place acorn squash, red onions, potatoes and cauliflower. Salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil. Stir to coat well and place in single layer around the edges of the pan.

Add salmon to the sheet pan and spread with about half the pesto. Roast at 400 degrees for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon is fork tender and fully cooked through.

Top with the remaining pesto and serve.

The flake test Insert a fork at an angle at the thickest point and twist gently. The fish will flake easily when it’s done, and it will lose its translucent or raw appearance.

Create foil packets Foil makes cleanup extra simple. You can use shrimp or a piece of fish, and veggies such as bell pepper, green beans, cherry tomatoes and zucchini. Layer fish on top of veggies onto a large piece of foil, season to taste, add some lemon slices and a drizzle of olive oil. Fold it up before cooking it in the oven, on the grill or even campfire.

Steam on the stovetop Fill a deep pot with 1 to 2 inches of water, add wire rack and bring to a boil. Add seafood and cover to cook. Seafood like lobster, crab legs and shrimp will turn pink or red when done, so look for the bright color and then enjoy.

This delicious salmon recipe only takes about 15 minutes of preparation. For additional seafood recipes, visit seafoodnutrition.org.

—Brandpoint.com 24 | carolinacountry.com

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5/11/21 3:07 PM

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704-626-1644 CarolinaReplacementWindow.com Offer not available in all areas. Discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and applies to purchase of 4 or more windows and/or entry or patio doors. Buy two windows and/or doors, get the second two windows and/or doors, of equal or lesser value, 40% off. Discount applied to lowest priced window and/or door products in purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers. Initial contact for a free Window and Door Diagnosis must be made and documented on or before 6/30/21, with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. No payments and deferred interest for 12 months available to well qualified buyers on approved credit only. Not all customers may qualify. No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 12 months. Renewal by Andersen retailers are independently owned and operated retailers, and are neither brokers nor lenders. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only, and all financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen retailers, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender. S&L Windows and Doors, LLC d/b/a Renewal by Andersen of the Carolinas. NC Residential Builders License #80213. South Carolina Residential Builders Commission #571. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. ©2021 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2021 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved. All sales, marketing and installation of windows is conducted by Renewal by Andersen of the Carolinas, an independently owned and operated affiliate operating in NC and SC.

1

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5/10/21 8:31 AM

Energy Sense

Three Ways to Save Energy Outdoors Find efficiencies outside

By Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen

It’s summertime, and after far too many months cooped up, many North Carolinians are spending more time out in the yard, in gardens, and on decks and patios. We often use this column to discuss ways to save energy indoors, but there are ways to save outside of your home as well­ — here are three:

1

Outdoor Lighting If you have security lighting, there’s a good chance you can save a little energy. Some security lights can be 500 to 1000 watts. That’s the equivalent of 40 to 80 indoor LED bulbs — quite a lot of energy! Adding timers, motion sensors and light sensors can reduce your bulb energy use. Plus, when you use your lights less often, your neighbors may appreciate a little less light pollution!

Switching to LEDs is another great strategy. Solar lights are also a good way to light walkways, a water feature or your deck — without having to buy any electricity at all.

2

Grilling Using your oven can raise your kitchen’s temperature by up to 10 degrees, increasing the need for running your air conditioner, so grilling outdoors is a great way to save energy. If you like to grill most of your meals, you may want to consider the fuel you use. If natural gas is available, it’s usually much less expensive than propane. Natural gas is also convenient because you don’t have to refill any tanks like you would with propane. On the downside, if you don’t already have gas lines running to your patio or deck, the cost of installing them can be prohibitive.

Other fuel types, like charcoal briquettes or wood, take more preparation and can be fussy to work with, and charcoal grills emit three times as much carbon as gas grills.

Whichever fuel type you choose for your grill, you can save energy by keeping the lid closed during cooking, rather than cooking with the lid off at higher heat.

3

Pumps and maintenance Many of us have one or more pumps that service our yard or reside on our property. Pumps can supply water for a swimming pool, your lawn and garden, or your septic system or well. It’s easy to let maintenance slip, which cuts the pump’s efficiency and shortens its life.

Maintaining pumps involves cleaning the filters or checking oil and belts. If you have multiple pumps and need to hire a professional for assistance, try to do all the maintenance at once to reduce the overall cost. You may also want to consider replacing older pumps with energy efficient Energy Star®-rated ones before they break down. While you’re at it, check for leaks in the water lines, which make your pumps work harder and longer.

Hopefully these ideas will help you enjoy your outdoor living space this summer — and help you save energy!

This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency.

Visit carolinacountry.com/your-energy for more ideas on energy efficiency.

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5/10/21 1:47 PM

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU.

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5/7/21 12:25 PM

New Life on the Water

Tanya Binford

Tanya Binford’s surprising path to becoming a record-setting sailor

By Pamela A. Keene

After a romantic date in 1996 on a sailboat in San Francisco Bay, Tanya Binford was hooked on boating. But it would be a couple of decades before her real on-the-water adventures began.

“I always dreamed of just sailing away after that first time on a sailboat, but my life certainly took a very different turn in 2014.”

Tanya, who never boated growing up, accomplished what less than 2,000 people have done since the mid-1980s, typically with at least one other person on board. She circumnavigated the Great Loop up the Eastern Coast of the United States, becoming the first female to boat the 5,500-mile route solo. Her six-month journey took her from North Carolina, up along the East Coast and through three of the Great Lakes, south along the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, around Florida, then back up the East Coast.

“Circumnavigating the Eastern United States has become popular since the late 1990s,” says Kim Russo, director of the America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association, based in Summerville, South Carolina. “But what Tanya has done, especially by herself, is a true accomplishment. She must really have a strong sense of adventure to do such an amazing journey.”

Approaching age 50, Tanya was working as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Tucson when the death of a dear friend caused her to reassess her life.

“I had too many friends and colleagues who had died before retiring and being able to live their dreams,” she says. “I asked myself, would I have any regrets as I lay on my own deathbed?

That was a turning point, and reignited my dream of sailing.”

Enter Annabelle

In 2010, it became necessary for her to see patients virtually, freeing her to live wherever she chose. She took the opportunity to move to Southport, North Carolina, with her son.

“I immediately felt at home in Southport, and within a month I’d bought a house. That was the beginning of my journey. My son and I came here to learn about boats.”

Fast forward to 2014. The deal she’d struck with her employer in Arizona several years before allowed her to take a sabbatical for her extended boat trip. Her goal?

Navigate The Great Loop on her

own boat, Annabelle, a small trawler equipped with a sleeping berth, galley and bathroom.

“It was about right for me, but tight quarters with other people on board,” she says about the 25-foot, 2008 Ranger Tug. She learned about navigation, general boat maintenance and safety on the water. She also connected with other “Loopers” (people who were in process of doing The Great Loop or had completed it). “[I met] so many supportive boaters who were willing to share their experiences — good and bad,” Tanya says.

“Without connecting with these people, some of whom became my friends along the way, I never would have made it.”

The voyage begins

By April 2014, she was ready to depart. Armed with her boating experience, navigation charts, a tentative schedule with reservations at various marinas and plenty of advice from other people, she headed out of Southport, north into the Intercoastal Waterway.

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5/10/21 2:52 PM

“The next six months were filled with all kinds of challenges and opportunities,” she says. “I learned how to repair the engine; I survived strong storms and dense fog; and I took plenty of time to enjoy the journey.”

The trip included many one-night stays in marinas or on moorings, but she also had extended overnight stops just because she wanted to get to know more about the communities she passed by.

“I couldn’t imagine being in all these places without learning more about them,” she says. “The thrill of seeing the Statue of Liberty from a boat and cruising the Chicago river through the towering skyscrapers of downtown Chicago can’t be replicated.”

Asked about the challenges, she relayed several stories about negotiating the canals and locks.

“My toughest was in the Erie Canal.

The lockmasters for the most part were helpful, but the pressure on me to manage my own vessel, tie off correctly and hold my own was pretty intense.”

Crossing her wake

In November 2014, almost six months from the day she left, Tanya ‘crossed her wake,’ meaning she had come full circle and returned to Southport.

She had earned the coveted gold flag awarded by the America’s Great Loop Cruisers Association to signify completion of the Loop.

Once home, she wrote the book “Crossing the Wake,” an account of her journey. She returned to work for a few more years, but last November, she retired to embark on her next adventure.

“I’ve sold everything and have my new canal barge waiting for me on the Saone River in France,” she says.

There’s a longing in her voice. “I’d be there already, but with the pandemic I have to be patient. The positive is that the delay allows more time for French lessons. The wait will be so worth it to begin this next stage of my

life, living in France and exploring the canals and rivers there.”

She adds: “I never would have dreamed my life would turn out this way.”

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

The 5,500-mile Great Loop

Visit greatloop.org to see an interactive map of the route followed by Tanya and other Loopers, and to learn more about America’s Great Loop. Her book is available at crossingthewake.com.

2021

Categories include: Nothing could be finer ...

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

We need your help!

We’re leaving it up to you, our readers, to pick the best of the best. Visit carolinacountry.com/finest

by June 30 and cast your votes in the categories below. Each voter will be entered into a drawing for one of three $100 gift cards.

  BBQ

  Main Street/Downtown

  Burger

  Family Friendly Outing

  Bakery

  Public Garden

  Festival

  Iconic NC Landmark

  Weekend Getaway

  Made in NC Product

Vote for your favorites at

carolinacountry.com/finest

by June 30 for a chance to win $100!

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

by June 30, 2021. Random drawing will take place July 1, 2021.

June 2021 | 29

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5/10/21 1:47 PM

Carolina Bookshelf

Exploring North Carolina’s Lookout Towers

In the 1920s and 1930s, forestry organizations built dozens of lookout structures in Western North Carolina as the backbone of a firefighting system. Many of these lookouts survive in North Carolina today, and represent some of the best destinations for hikers who want to see the Blue Ridge Mountains’ incredible views. Part hiking guide and part photography collection, this book contains stories and folklore of the fire lookouts and their inhabitants, a detailed guide of hikes to each, and details about the views at the top. In all, it leads hikers to panoramic vistas from 28 historic fire lookout towers as well as eight historical/former fire lookout towers. Lookout towers can be dangerous, and many are not routinely maintained. The book’s author, preservationist Peter J. Barr, based in Asheville, includes a safety reminder to assess structures and risk. Nature photographer Kevin Adams, based in Waynesville, augments Barr’s text throughout with 200 full-color photographs of the towers and the views. 450 pages for both hardcover, $39.95 and softcover, $29.95.

800-283-3572 blairpub.com

North Carolina’s Outer Banks

Written by an experienced insider, the latest edition to Insiders’ Guide to North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a comprehensive source for in-depth travel and relocation.

The updated guide provides tips on lodging, including unique vacation rentals, along with restaurants, events, fun things to do with the kids, nightlife, fishing spots and shopping. Some attractions listings are known favorites, while others wait to be discovered and cost little or are free.

The Outer Banks is a true arts community and the arts and culture section offers details on the many eclectic galleries there. The recreation chapter runs the gamut for outdoor activities, from windsurfing, hang gliding, scuba diving and parasailing to golf, tennis, in-line skating, sightseeing cruises, ATV excursions and beachcombing. There’s also advice on how to live and thrive in the area, covering retirement, real estate, education and health care. The book is written by Kip Tabb, a freelance journalist living on the Outer Banks. Insider Guide Series. 352 pages, softcover, $22.95; e-book, $16.49.

Hiking North Carolina

Keeping social distancing in mind, this newly revised edition of Hiking North Carolina is full of less-visited hikes. You’ll find details of more than 500 hikes across the state. These trails range from national forests and the Appalachian Trail to Piedmont forests, military and state parks, plus wildlife refuges and national seashores at the Outer Banks.

Hikes to NC’s most visited locations include alternate starting points and strategies to escape crowds. Choices include challenging backpack trips, handicapped accessible adventures, waterfall hikes and urban greenway escapes. Easy family walks include close-to-home sections of the Mountains-toSea Trail. Trail info includes difficulty ratings, elevation gains, descriptions and fullcolor photos. The trail finder organizes the options and entries provide trailhead directions with GPS coordinates and GPS compatible maps for hundreds of hikes. Safety and trail etiquette are also covered.

The guide is written by veteran travel author Randy Johnson, based in Banner Elk. 384 pages; softcover, $17.07.

Blue Marlin

New York Times best-selling author Lee Smith brings her storytelling magic to this semi-autobiographical novella that follows the always-curious 13-year-old Jenny. After the discovery of her father’s illicit affair with a mysterious local artist, Jenny is sent off to live with her church-going cousins while her parents attempt to recover their marriage. Then her father proposes a family vacation down to Key West. At the Blue Marlin Motel, Jenny, her beautiful mother, and chastened father share their stay with movie stars in town to film “Operation Petticoat.”

Jenny is a bit of a sleuth, so her observations to uncover the secrets of stars such as Tony Curtis also end up revealing the secrets of her own fractured family. Jenny confronts the frailty of family life while vying for the attention of actor Tony Curtis and a role in his movie. The author delivers wry humor and honesty to her flawed characters with Southern dignity. She lives in Hillsborough. 123 pages, softcover, $15.95; e-book, $13.99.

800-283-3572 blairpub.com

1

randyjohnsonbooks.com

800-843-2665 barnesandnoble.com

carolinacountry.com/bookshelf Find more books about and from NC online.

Prefer to support independent bookstores? You can cross-reference books and local shops where they are sold by visiting indiebound.org.

D

Carolina Bookshelf features select books that relate to North Carolina by setting or topic or that are by NC authors. To submit a book for a possible mention, please mail a copy of the book, along with a description of its topic, purchase information and your contact information, to Carolina Bookshelf, Carolina Country, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC, 27616.

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5/10/21 1:08 PM

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5/7/21 12:30 PM

Carolina Calendar

Vertical Mile Challenge Also half-mile run June 19, Hiddenite

Kayak for the Warriors Kayak/paddle board race June 5, Pine Knoll Shores

U.S. 301 Endless Yard Sale 100 miles of vendor sales June 18–19, Selma

June Events MOUNTAINS

PIEDMONT

Artists in Residence

Are We There Yet

Shows, meet artists at studio Through June, Blowing Rock artistsatedgewood.org brhs.air@gmail.com

Travel photos 1930s–1970s Through June, Raleigh 919-814-7000 ncmuseumofhistory.org

A Very Magical Family Reading

Branching Out

Puppetry, magic tricks June 10, Morganton 828-433-7469 commaonline.org

NC artists nature exhibit Through June, Cary 919-447-4000 theumstead.com

Charity Horse Show

Favorite Photographs

Horses, riders compete June 10–13, Blowing Rock 828-295-4700 brchs.org

Including Allen Thomas Jr.’s works June 1–17, Wilson 252-291-4329 wilsonarts.com

Vertical Mile Challenge

Full Frame Documentary Festival

Also half-mile run June 19, Hiddenite 828-632-1308 rockyfacepark.com

Nearly 100 films online June 2–6, Durham 919-687-4100 fullframefest.org

Weekend of Live Music

Bynum Front Porch Series

Traditional, innovative tunes Jun 19–20, Spruce Pine 828-765-9531 altapassorchard.org

Live music, food truck Fridays through June visitpittsboro.com

A Night of Comedy

Classics to Custom Car Show and Antiques to Chic

Jason Allen King, Tara Brown June 24, Morganton 828-433-7469 commaonline.org

Includes vintage shopping June 5, Sanford 919-718-4659, ext. 1400 kplaudate@downtownsanford.com

Art is in the Air

U.S. 301 Endless Yard Sale

En plein air, downtown June 25–27, Brevard mj@explorebrevard.com facebook.com

100 miles of vendor sales June 18–19, Selma 919-989-8687 johnstoncountync.org

Juneteenth Celebration Music, prayer honoring emancipation June 19, Marshville marshvillesjune19th@gmail.com

Three Little Pigs Triathlon

6 for 60

Swimming, biking, running June 19, Smithfield 919-631-9847 fsseries.com

Battleship anniversary tours June 5–6, Wilmington 910-399-9117 battleshipncfriends.com

100th State Annual Singing Convention

Music in the Brewery

Professional, amateur gospel June 25–27, Benson 919-894-4389 gospelsingingconvention.org

COAST Summerfest Movies At park, for kids Thursdays through June, Shallotte 910-754-4032 townofshallotte.org

First Friday Artwalk Music, artists demonstrations June 4, Elizabeth City 252-338-4104 elizabethcitydowntown@ embarqmail.com

Indie Bookstore Day Giveaways, contests June 5, Elizabeth City 252-335-7243 visitelizabethcity.com

Kayak for the Warriors Kayak/paddle board race June 5, Pine Knoll Shores 252-808-2998 k4tw.org

Country/rock cover band June 11, Elizabeth City 252-599-1099 visitelizabethcity.com

Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament June 11–20, Morehead City 252-247-3575 thebigrock.com director@thebigrock.com

Corolla Cork & Craft Tastings, live music June 16, 23 & 30, Corolla 252-435-2947 visitcurrituck.com

Under the Oaks Art Festival June 22–23, Corolla 252-435-2947 visitcurrituck.com

60th Old Homes Tour Private homes, gardens June 25–26, Beaufort 252-728-5225 beauforthistoricsite.org

Bocce, Beer & Bites Tournament, DJ June 26, Elizabeth City 252-333-1510 visitelizabethcity.com

Know Before You Go Check information from the contacts listed for the most up-todate information. We strive for accuracy, but postponements and cancellations are possible.

carolinacountry.com/calendar See and submit more events online.

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5/11/21 2:26 PM

Carolina Adventures

Big Screens Under the Stars Drive-in movies are making a comeback

By Lori Grossman

I

’ll admit: the last time I was at a drive-in movie was back in high school.

And at that age, I was more interested in talking about boys, eating popcorn and enjoying the night air from the back of a pickup than what was playing on the big screen.

For a time, it seemed drive-ins were fading from the landscape, relegated to fond memories. But drive-ins were making a bit of a comeback before the pandemic began, and now, with social distancing still a necessity, most are filling their parking lots. Two in particular — Albemarle’s Eden Drive-In and Henderson’s Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre — were included in Architectural Digest’s list of the 25 most charming drive-in movie theaters left in America.

This isn’t a full list of NC drive-ins, but it’s a start. Check for the latest showtimes with the drive-in of your choice before you go.

The Drive-In at Carraway Village

Sunset Drive-In • Shelby sunsetdriveintheatre.com • 704-434-7782 Plans to be open for the season starting on Memorial Day weekend. Cash only. Outside food is allowed if you clean up, and there is a concessions menu on their website. No grills or pets.

Lexington Cinema and Drive-In

Hounds Drive-In • Kings Mountain houndsdrivein.com • 704-739-4424 Two 50-x-100-foot screens show current releases on Friday and Saturday. Pets must be on a leash. No outside food or drinks, so check out the concession menu on their website. No waiting—26 restrooms!

Badin Road Drive-In • Albemarle badinrddrivein.wordpress.com 704-983-2900 Built in 1948, closed for a time, then re-opened in 1994. Double features Friday and Saturday with current releases on two screens. Cash only. Concession options are listed on their Facebook page.

Triangle Drive-In • Raleigh triangledrive.in • 919-363-4050 Located near Barnes and Noble at Triangle Town Center, this drive-in opened in response to the pandemic. Shows family-friendly films on Friday and Saturday. Tickets and concessions must be ordered online, from food trucks or you can visit the mall’s food court. They plan to remain open throughout the summer.

State Line Movie Time • Tabor City statelinemovietime.com • 910-499-1756 Owner Sherry Barnes dreamed about building this drive-in, then did most of the work herself. It opened in May 2019 and is open every night, year-round. One big screen shows double features. Only cash at the gate.

Bring your own cooler and grill if you pay $10 for a cooler pass when you buy your admission. Leashed pets are welcome.

Lexington

lexingtoncinema.com • 336-237-0029 First-run movies every night, except Monday.

Limited concessions menu on website.

Cost: $15 per vehicle. They show a mix of new and older movies.

Eden Drive-In • Eden edendrivein.wordpress.com • 336-623-9669 Two screens showing double features every Friday and Saturday. You’ll find information about showings on their Facebook page, plus a menu with your favorite drive-in snacks. Good assortment of drinks and ice cream flavors. Go old-school and order a milkshake with your burger.

Chapel Hill

carrawayvillagedrivein.com • 919-441-1685 This one-screen drive-in opened last October. It shows a mixture of current films, Film Fest contenders and productions of iconic musicals. Tickets must be purchased online prior to the show. No outside food or drinks. Food trucks will be onsite for special events (check Facebook page), and a few concession items can be ordered online at bit.ly/cvdi-menu.

Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre Henderson

raleighroaddrivein.com • 919-336-9300 Once known as “The Moon-Glo Drive-In,” it opened in 1949 and is the oldest operating drive-in in the state. Open year-round with showings Thursday through Saturday.

Check out the helpful page for first-time visitors on the website. Order snacks at concession window or online. You’ll be paged or texted to pick up your food.

Freelance writer Lori Grossman currently lives in Texas, but carries memories of North Carolina in her heart.

June 2021 | 33

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Doctor urges seniors to carry medical alert device Seniors snap up new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills People don’t always do what their doctor says, but when seasoned veteran emergency room physician, Dr. Philip B. Howren says every senior should have a medical alert device, you better listen up.

“Seniors are just one fall away from being put in a nursing home,” Dr. Howren said. “With a medical alert device, seniors are never alone. So it keeps them living independently in their own home.

That’s why seniors and their family members are snapping up a sleek new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills ever,” he said.

Many seniors refuse to wear old style help buttons because they make them look old. But even worse, those medical alert sys-

tems come with monthly bills.

To solve these problems Universal Physicians, a U.S. company went to work to develop a new, modern, state-of-theart medical alert device. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“This slick new little device is designed to look like the pagers doctors wear every day. Seniors love them, because it actually makes them look important, not old,” Dr. Howren said.

FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special newspaper promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select areas. ■

■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio.

“Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.

Seniors born before 1956 get new medical alert device with no monthly bills ever It’s just what seniors have been waiting for; a sleek new medical alert device with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button for a one-time $149 price tag that’s a real steal after today’s instant rebate The phone lines are ringing off the hook.

That’s because for seniors born before 1956, it’s a deal too good to pass up.

Starting at precisely 8:30am this morning the Pre-Store Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“It’s not like old style monitored help buttons that make you talk to a call center and only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month.

FastHelp comes with state - of-the -ar t celFLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are lular embedded tech- ■ now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-866-964-2952 Ext. HELP2751 nology. That means it today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to (Continued on next page)

unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

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works at home or anywhere, anytime cell service is available whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino. You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack Lawrence, Executive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians.

“We’ve never seen anything like it. Consumers absolutely love the sleek new modern design and most of all, the instant rebate that practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said.

FastHelp is the sleek ne w m e d ic a l a ler t device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever.

Better still, it comes with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever – which makes FastHelp a great choice for seniors, students and professionals because it connects to one of the largest nationwide networks everywhere cell service is available for free.

And here’s the best part. All those who already have an old style monitored medical alert button can immediately eliminate those monthly bills, which is why Universal Physicians is widely advertising this announcement nationwide.

“So if you’ve ever felt a medical alert device was too complicated or expensive, you’ll want to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device with no monthly bills,” said Lawrence.

The medical alert dev ice slugfest was dominated by two main combatants who both offer old style monitored help buttons that come with a hefty bill

CC06-wk.indd 35

every month. But now Universal Physicians, the U.S. based heavyweight, just delivered a knockout blow sending the top rated contenders to the mat with the unveiling of FastHelp.

It’s the sleek new cellular embedded medical alert device that cuts out the middleman by instantly connecting you directly to highly trained 911 operators all across the U.S. There’s absolutely nothing to hook-up or install.

You don’t need a land

line and you don’t need a cell phone. Everything is done for you.

“FastHelp is a state of the art medical alert dev ice desig ned to make you look important, not old. Old style monitored help buttons you wear around your neck, or require expensive base station equipment or a landline are the equivalent of a horse and buggy,” Lawrence says. “It’s just outdated.”

Millions of seniors fall every year and spend

hours lying on the floor helpless and all alone with no help.

B ut s en ior s who fall and get immediate help are much more likely to avoid getting sent to a nursing home and get to STAY living in their own home independently.

Ye t m i l l i o n s o f seniors are still risking their safety by not having a medical alert device. That’s because seniors just can’t afford to pay the monthly bills that come with old style

medical alert devices.

That’s why seniors born before 1956 are rushing to cash in the whopping $150 instant rebate before the June 30th deadline ends.

So there’s no need to wait for FastHelp to hit store shelves later this year because seniors born before 1956 can get it now just by using the $150 instant rebate coupon printed in today’s newspaper before the June 30th deadline ends. If lines are busy keep trying, all calls will be answered. ■

HOW TO GET IT: IF BORN BEFORE 1956: Use the rebate coupon below and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-866-964-2952 EXT. HELP2751 IF BORN AFTER 1956: You cannot use the rebate coupon below and must pay $299 Call: 1-866-964-2955 EXT. HELP2751 THE BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. FastHelp with the instant rebate is a real steal at just $149 and shipping and there are no monthly bills ever.

PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal irresistible. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.

CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1956 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline before the June 30 th deadline. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.

EXPIRES

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE (Continued from previous page)

P7201A OF22162R-1

June 30, 2021

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FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 3G GSM CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR AND FRANK MCDONALD IS AN ACTUAL USER AND COMPENSATED FOR HIS PARTICIPATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720.

5/7/21 12:25 PM

Carolina Gardens

Squash the Vine Borer

Get the jump on these pests to prevent problems Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

As spring matures into summer, vegetable gardeners are starting to have halcyon dreams of the coming harvest — but wait! Down in the squash patch — plants are dying! the offending borers (which can fatten up to about an inch long) and kill them with a needle, if you want, but I personally don’t have the desire to get down on all fours and perform surgery on a plant to dispatch such bothersome bugs.

A better way to stop squash vine borers in their tiny tracks is to start weekly sprayings with insecticidal soap at the bases of young plants. This will discourage adults from laying eggs and smother any that do make it onto the plants.

Another tactic to prevent destructive egg laying by the moths is to cover young squash plants with a lightweight row cover, such as Reemay, to physically keep them from the plants. However, since squash is best pollinated by insects, this barrier should be pulled back when the plants begin producing flowers.

Other good cultural practices to try out include the obvious: Severely infested plants should be yanked

Melissa McMasters

Odds are strong this calamity is the dastardly work of squash vine borers. Scientifically known as Melittia cucurbitae, I call them “#$%#*>!!”

The problem starts with orangecolored, wasp-like intruders with dark wings flitting about squash foliage.

They aren’t actually wasps, but rather squash vine borer moths looking to lay their tiny, rust-brown eggs on the plants’ stems and foliage. When the larvae hatch, they bore into leaf stems, where they then begin chewing the dickens out of them from the inside. This is what causes foliage on your squash and zucchini plants to wilt and die. (Pumpkin planters take note — vine borers can be a big problem for you, too.)

Areas where larvae enter stems can be found in the form of small holes that usually have yellowishbrown yuck around them. You can carefully slit stems at the holes, find

Squash vine borer moth

up and tossed in the trash — do not compost them. Also, rotate squash to other parts of the veggie garden every other growing season. In addition, since immature squash vine borers overwinter in the soil, till the veggie garden in late December and again in early February to expose these little nasties, as well as other hibernating bad bugs, to the frigid cold.

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

Garden To-Do’s for June

Saddleback caterpillar

Seen any weird-looking caterpillars in the garden lately? If so, observe but don’t touch.

Strange as it may seem, there are actually caterpillars that can sting. Bristling with hollow barbs or hairs filled with venom for defense, these caterpillars aren’t aggressive, but they also aren’t something you want to brush up against — they can inflict pain similar to a wasp or hornet attack, and if you are allergic to such stings, you could have even bigger problems.

In our state, two of the strangest looking that pack really mean stings are the puss caterpillar and saddleback caterpillar (see left).

Puss caterpillar

F

If you need to spray insecticides, don’t do it on a windy day. Also, wait until late in the afternoon, when the activity of friendly pollinators such as bees and butterflies is at a minimum.

F

Now that summer heat is upon us, create interest in the water garden by adding tropical water lilies.

F

Run out of space in the garden for ornamental plants? Think about hanging ‘em high. Hanging baskets in semi-shady spots such as porches and entryways will also liven up the landscape. For starters, consider planting any combination of begonias, impatiens, ivy, creeping Jenny, ferns or fuchsias.

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Connect with Carolina Country

Chart your next adventure. NC’s best destinations and events, all online.

Don’t miss out on your favorite content, including the latest from Carolina Kitchen. Sign up for email updates on our website!

Find your adventure on

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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. All ads must adhere to Carolina Country’s advertising policy, which can be found in our media kit at carolinacountry.com/advertise/MediaKit. 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.

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Carolina Kitchen

Egg Salad à la Linda Linda Miller’s egg salad is legendary among volunteers working at animal rescue events in Raleigh. Here is her recipe, tweaked to use bread-andbutter pickles. You can also use dill or sweet pickle cubes, or a combination.

But no matter which pickles you pick, drain them very well to prevent soggy salad. Serve on sliced bread, in pitas or scooped alongside tomato wedges.

6 ½ ½ ¼

½ ½ ¼ 4

hard-cooked eggs, peeled cup diced celery cup diced red onion cup chopped bread-andbutter pickles, drained well teaspoon black pepper, or to taste teaspoon salt, or to taste cup mayonnaise teaspoons Dijon mustard Chives, chopped (optional)

Slice the hard-cooked eggs into a large bowl. Chop up the eggs or use a pastry blender to cut them up.

Add the celery, onion, pickles, pepper and salt, and combine. Stir in the mayonnaise and mustard.

Cover and refrigerate. Keep cold until serving. Sprinkle with chives. cup

Yield: About 4 cups

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.

nd

the

Pimento Cheese Biscuits

The boom in locally made pimento cheese provides lots of options for these biscuits. (Try jalapeño!) When the biscuits are completely cool, they can be put in bags and frozen. Serve as-is with butter, or slice and fill with sausage patties, sliced tomatoes — or it’s hard to go wrong with more pimento cheese!

2 cups flour ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1 tablespoon baking powder

½ cup chunky 1 teaspoon salt pimento cheese

¾–1 cup milk Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and cayenne pepper, if using. Add the pimento cheese and use a pastry blender to cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk about ¼ cup at a time until the mixture forms a wet, but not soggy, dough. You may not need a full cup of milk.

Drop by large tablespoons onto the baking pan, placing the biscuits close together. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops and bottoms are lightly brown.

Yield: About 8 biscuits

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Carolina Kitchen

From Your Kitchen

Fruity Snack Bars

Granola bars make great travel fuel, but they’re often too sweet or chewy. Make these dairy-free bars any way you like them! Substitute chopped nuts or mini-chocolate chips for the fruit. Pack the bars straight from the freezer and they’ll be thawed when the hungries hit.

2 1 ¼ ¼ ½ ⅓

cups rolled oats cup flour teaspoon salt teaspoon cinnamon cup packed brown sugar cup dried cranberries

⅓ cup dried blueberries ⅓ cup chopped dates 1 package (16-ounce) silken tofu ¼ cup oil ¼ teaspoon vanilla

Spray an 8-inch by 8-inch baking pan and a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, stir together the oats, flour, salt, cinnamon and brown sugar, breaking up any clumps of sugar with a fork or your hands. Stir in the cranberries, blueberries and dates.

In a medium bowl, mash the tofu until no large pieces remain.

Stir in the oil and vanilla.

Add the tofu mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well. The batter will be thick. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 20–30 minutes or until lightly brown and cooked through.

When done, remove the pan from the oven and cut into 12 pieces. Place the pieces on the baking sheet and return to the oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden. If you prefer a crispier bar, turn off the oven and leave them up to 15 minutes longer.

Let the bars cool completely, then eat immediately or place in airtight bags and freeze.

Yield: 12 bars

Angel Food Cheesecake Cookies

These light, fluffy cookies combine the airy taste of angel food cake with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. A perfect dessert to finish off a summer meal!

1 stick salted butter, room temperature 1 package (8-ounce) cream cheese 1 egg

1 1 1 ½

teaspoon vanilla extract box angel food cake mix teaspoon cinnamon teaspoon nutmeg

Soften cream cheese and butter on counter before beginning.

In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla extract.

Beat in the angel food cake mix, adding slowly in small amounts. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour until slightly firm.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and nutmeg. Scoop tablespoons of chilled batter onto ungreased cookie sheets about 2 inches apart. If batter sticks, flour your fingertips to make transfer easier. Sprinkle each cookie with a dash of spice mixture if you like.

Bake for 12 minutes. The cookies will be soft. Cool completely and dust with more spice mixture.

Yield: Make 24–36 cookies

Recipe courtesy of Stephanie Carter of Winnabow, a member of Brunswick Electric

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.

Homemade Berry Ice Cream Each month, we take a look back at some old favorites from our recipe archive. For June, check out “Homemade Berry Ice Cream” from 1970.

See this recipe and 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!

June 2021 | 41

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W ea

where

in Carolina Country is this ?

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

Online:

carolinacountry.com/where

By mail: Where in Carolina Country?

3400 Sumner Blvd.

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

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

May winner

The May “Where Is This” photo by Tideland EMC member Kim Dysinger features the old Boat Works located near the intersection of Trent Road and Highway 55, near Merritt, between Bayboro and Oriental in Pamlico County. This dilapidated building proved to be a bit too obscure for many readers, with wrong answers dotted across the state.

The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Alison Klakowicz of Oriental, a Tideland EMC member.

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

scenes CAROLINA COUNTRY

featured photo

N

Dr. Seuss-Like Flowers Strolling through my backyard in Belhaven after a late spring rain, I was captivated by the Dr. Seuss-like flowers of the mimosa tree.

Submit your photos at carolinacountry.com/photos

CC06-wk.indd 42

Ginny Mason, Bath, a member of Tideland EMC

5/11/21 2:34 PM

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25

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% NO LONG-TERM OFF CONTRACTS

No long-term contracts

Keep your current phone number

Available in-store or online at:

2

No cancellation fees

100% U.S.-based live customer service

25

% OFF

reliable wireless network.

1

To order or learn more, call

1.800.650.4308

No hidden monthly fees

Affordable, flexible plans

lively.com/flip

25% off regular price of $9999 is only valid for new lines of service. Offer valid through 7/3/21 at Best Buy. Offer valid through 6/26/21 at Rite Aid and Walgreens. ²Monthly fees do not include government taxes or fees and are subject to change. Plans and services may require purchase of Lively device and one-time setup fee of $35. Urgent Response or 911 calls can be made only when cellular service is available. Urgent Response tracks an approx. location of device when device is turned on and connected to the network. Lively does not guarantee an exact location. Urgent Response is only available with the purchase of a Lively Health & Safety Package. Amazon Alexa integration with Lively Flip requires Alexa registration and is subject to Alexa’s Terms of Use. By enabling Alexa on the Lively Flip, you acknowledge that Lively is not responsible for Amazon Alexa’s functionality or services. Amazon, Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

LIVELY and JITTERBUG are trademarks of Best Buy and its affiliated companies. ©2021 Best Buy. All rights reserved.

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Plans as l

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$

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