2021-11-BRE

November 2021

LET’S BE A HELPING HAND TO OUR NEIGHBORS

Join with Blue Ridge Energy to help families in your community stay warm this winter. Through Operation Round Up® PLUS, sharing is caring.

Be a good neighbor. Partner with us to make a difference. Turn the page to see how.

PERIODICAL

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for Lending a Helping Hand Winter’s cold temperatures always result in tough challenges for those struggling to pay electric or fuel bills. That’s why so many people have stepped up to join Blue Ridge Energy in helping out.

Thanks to the generosity of thousands of Blue Ridge members and customers who participate in Operation Round Up® and Operation Round Up® Plus, more than 2,500 local residents have received crisis energy assistance during the last 12 months.

Can you share more?

Here’s how: Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ORU.

Through Operation Round Up, participants voluntarily round up their electric bills to the next dollar amount.

The average contribution of just fifty cents per month (or $6 a year), joined with others’ gifts, goes a long way in sharing warmth and hope with neighbors in need.

Many members are going the extra mile through Operation Round Up Plus. In addition to rounding up their bills, they contribute an extra amount to assist deserving families. From an additional $1, $5 or even $10 a month, they have donated based on their ability to do so.

Are you fortunate enough to share? Be a good neighbor and lend a helping hand. Join Blue Ridge Energy in supporting your neighbors in need.

And THANK YOU to all those who have helped along the way!

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November 2021

2021

Starting on page 12

Published by

Shop local, shop rural! page 8

Head to the mountains for an EV adventure page 26

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation helps meet community’s needs — pages 17–20 November covers.indd 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

F

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

O

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

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Volume 53, No. 11

T Reroute Marketing

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2021

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12

Favorites

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4 From Our Readers 6 Viewpoints 8 More Power

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24 Carolina Gardens 28 Carolina Calendar 30 Marketplace 32 Carolina Kitchen 34 Where is This?

34 Carolina Music

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12 22 26

2021 Carolina’s Finest Awards See who our readers voted to be the best in barbecue, burgers and eight other categories.

Happier Cooking With Kitchen Ventilation Say goodbye to smoke and smells.

Electric Vehicle Adventure Scenic spots to charge your EV in western NC.

On the Cover The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, in Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative territory on the Outer Banks, holds the distinction as the tallest brick lighthouse in the country. It was also deemed by Carolina Country readers to be the “Finest NC Landmark” in this year’s Carolina’s Finest Awards. Learn about other reader picks starting on page 12.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Carolina Country Scenes It’s not too late to enter our annual photo contest! Send us your favorite photo of people or scenes from around the state by November 15. See page 10 for details.

carolinacountry.com | 3

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THIS MONTH:

Carolina’s Finest

Megan Mendenhall/Duke University

Finest Public Garden: Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Ever wonder where you could find the best bakery in North Carolina? Have you pondered what main street, of all our state’s quaint downtowns, is the finest? Well, ponder no more — our readers have voted on the finest our state has to offer, and their picks (for best bakery, best main street and eight other categories) are sure to please.

Explore the winners of 2021 Carolina’s Finest awards, starting on page 12.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 53, No. 4

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

From Our Readers

Edgar Serrano Digital Media

Diverse Communities Thank you for the diverse stories you show in Carolina Country.

I notice you show a diversity of people in our community, with ages, people of all colors, genders, all-abilities (disabilities) and backgrounds. I enjoy reading stories from the diversity of everyone in our community, and I notice the ads, too. The September cover photo of the family from Sankofa Farms caught my eye, and I enjoyed the story.

How about more about folks with disabilities? I remembered and found your 2018 article online (“Inspiration on the Farm,” September 2018, page 10).

Maria Troiani Howard, Chatham County, a member of Central Electric Editor’s Note: Thank you, Maria —w e’re always looking for new ways to highlight the diverse communities served by electric cooperatives, and we’ll do more to feature those with disabilities going forward.

Community Garden Conversion

Q:

Do y’all have any information on how to reclaim abandoned or long-unused property as a community garden?

Any info or pointers would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Amy, via carolinacountry.com

How wonderful to be transforming a vacant lot into a community garden! Start by learning how the site has been used in the past and prepping it for your garden:

A:

■ Check your dirt! Identify which

types of contaminants may be present and what steps you can use to protect your gardeners.

Learn more at bit.ly/check-dirt.

■ Remove any solid waste, includ-

ing old cars, broken glass, used needles and other trash.

■ Remove weeds and invasive

plants from the site.

■ Nurture soil health by

adding compost and planting cover crops.

Start small — one of the most common and most damaging mistakes community garden leaders make is taking on too much, too fast. Build a team of supporters to foster the development of the garden, and increase the size as you have the resources to joyfully support the additional load. Learn more at carolinacountry.com/ CommunityGardens.

—Lucy Bradley,

Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO North Carolina’s electric cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to 1 million homes and businesses. The 26 electric cooperatives are each 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.

NC State University Extension Specialist

4 | November 2021

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North Carolina Arts, History & Nature

Fall in One Place

The leaves are changing and a wide range of colorful events are sweeping our state. Autumn is a perfect time to take in everything North Carolina has to offer, from the gorgeous weather to local foods to traditional music.

This fall we’re kicking off a new season with the NC Symphony, spectacular new exhibit openings at our Raleigh Museums and rich arts programming across the state. We invite you to explore everything we have to offer this fall. Find it all in one place at ncdcr.gov/fallinoneplace.

#fallinoneplaceNC NC DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

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Viewpoints

Co-ops and the Military: A Shared ‘Esprit de Corps’

By Charlie Bayless

As an Air Force veteran, I was drawn to electric utilities when I transitioned out of the military. At first glance, these appear to be two very different occupations. However, both professions are connected by common overarching values: service and a commitment to community.

The notion of service permeates almost all aspects of the military, which is often referred to as “the service.” During my career, I knew that I was serving my community and not just furthering a corporate agenda. I had a sense of purpose and a knowing that I was helping others, both my fellow soldiers and people I encountered around the world. The military’s commitment to service could be seen in how soldiers carried out their daily duties, supported each other during deployments, and engaged the local community. This service extended to This same culture the overseas missions I particof service and ipated in, through the building of infrastructure in developing community are countries or conducting joint fundamental exercises to help those countries prepare to respond to building blocks emergencies.

Hand in hand with service upon which electric was a commitment to commucooperatives are built. nity, which was fundamental to military life. Community support extended past the vast array of services that the government provided to help military families, to a willingness to help one another and their families in any situation. No matter where you were assigned, you always knew there was a network of other military families that would help with a transition to a new base or assist your family during a deployment.

The military’s commitment to service and community are included in a concept known as “esprit de corps.” While many think of this as a gauge of morale, it goes deeper, encompassing a shared culture of customs and goals. This same culture of service and community are fundamental building blocks upon which electric cooperatives are built and their employees operate.

At the heart of cooperative service is sacrifice.

Many co-op employees work long hours in extreme weather to ensure all members have reliable service. When a storm occurs, electric cooperatives mobilize. Linemen from surrounding communities provide aid and office staff often perform fieldwork in an effort to restore power as quickly as possible. This commitment to provide service to the community often requires cooperative employees to spend weeks away from home, often missing holidays and other special occasions. Much like the military, these employees are committed to a larger calling of service to others.

Cooperatives also play a vital role in the community. For-profit corporations were historically unwilling to provide power or other vital services to rural communities because of low profit margins. Without locally operated cooperatives, many communities in North Carolina might still lack access to reliable and affordable utility services vital to modern life. The cooperatives’ commitment to community also extends beyond utility infrastructure. Cooperatives often provide funding for fire and EMS services, work to bolster local economic development, help disadvantaged members with energy efficiency upgrades, and sponsor youth and scholarship programs. The goal of sustainable community development is even enshrined as one of the cooperative principles, Concern for Community.

As we celebrate Veterans Day this year on November 11, I look back at my past and current careers, and I appreciate the tie that binds the two together: service to others and developing a strong community.

Charlie Bayless was a captain in the U.S. Air Force and is the incoming general counsel for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

6 | November 2021

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HARD TO WRAP. EASY TO GIVE .

From cutting down the tree to finding that perfect stocking stuffer, STIHL has your holidays covered. The STIHL Holiday Gift Guide has legendary tools, gear and accessories for everyone on your list. real stihl. find yours. stihlusa.com/GiftGuide ©2021 STIHL/MAS 21MASHL4-12-145352-4

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More Power

NC’s Electric Cooperatives, CoBank Fund Digital Inclusion

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n August, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and CoBank, a national cooperative bank, partnered to contribute $20,000 in grants to support the launch of a new statewide digital literacy training program at the Institute for Emerging Issues (IEI) at North Carolina State University.

The funds will support four digital inclusion planning workshops, hosted by IEI’s Building a New Digital Economy in North Carolina (BAND-NC) program. They will create a cohort of North Carolina counties working to build local capacity and share and implement digital inclusion priorities statewide.

“We’re proud to partner with BAND-NC to introduce programming that will increase digital literacy across rural North Carolina, enabling residents with critical new skills to navigate activities such as online learning, telemedicine and employment applications,” said Lark James, senior vice president and CFO of North Carolina’s Electric

(Left to right) Nelle Hotchkiss, COO of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, presents the grant award to IEI’s Leslie Boney and Maggie Woods

Cooperatives. “We’re grateful to IEI for its focus on this important issue, and for CoBank’s continued generosity in supporting impactful initiatives that contribute to a brighter future for cooperative members and our state.”

As North Carolina works to address the digital divide and bridge the broadband gap, BAND-NC provided minigrants to communities that want to implement digital inclusion plans or have immediate digital needs.

“This investment from the North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and CoBank helps us take on one of the biggest challenges remaining as we seek to make broadband available in every home: helping those who haven’t had broadband take full advantage of it,” said Leslie Boney, director of IEI. “We need to help those who don’t see the value of broadband or don’t know how to use it to get the skills and capacity they need to succeed, whether it is to download homework, work or look for work from home, or get healthcare.”

‘Vets Power Us’ Program Seeks to Bridge Military to Co-op Service

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Mrs. Ruth's Jams will be among the participating merchants.

mrsruthjams.com

orth Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives support the national Vets Power Us program (electric.coop/vetspowerus), aimed at employing and honoring veterans, active military and their spouses. This effort helps veterans understand potential career paths with electric co-ops and in turn, provides co-ops with best practices in attracting, onboarding and retaining veterans.

“The military and electric cooperatives are connected by the common overarching values of service and a commitment to community,” said Charlies Bayless, U.S. Air Force veteran and incoming general counsel for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives (see page 6).

Veterans interested in finding a co-op job can start their search at careers.electric.coop/jobseekers, or find more energy industry jobs through the Center for Energy Workforce Development’s Troops to Energy Jobs Initiative (troopstoenergyjobs.com).

Shop Local, Shop Rural!

November 11 is an online “Shop Rural Day” in North Carolina, a livestream e-commerce show for NC rural brands to sell directly to consumers around the country. Participating merchants will be offering deals, auctions, trivia games and more. From noon to midnight, log on to shopruralday.org to support rural North Carolina businesses.

8 | November 2021

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his story breaks my heart every time. Allegedly, just two years after the discovery of tanzanite in 1967, a Maasai tribesman knocked on the door of a gem cutter’s office in Nairobi. The Maasai had brought along an enormous chunk of tanzanite and he was looking to sell. His asking price? Fifty dollars. But the gem cutter was suspicious and assumed that a stone so large could only be glass. The cutter told the tribesman, no thanks, and sent him on his way. Huge mistake. It turns out that the gem was genuine and would have easily dwarfed the world’s largest cut tanzanite at the time. Based on common pricing, that “chunk” could have been worth close to $3,000,000! The tanzanite gem cutter missed his chance to hit the jeweler’s jackpot...and make history. Would you have made the same mistake then? Will you make it today?

In the decades since its discovery, tanzanite has become one of the world’s most coveted gemstones. Found in only one remote place on Earth (in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro), the precious purple stone is 1,000 times rarer than diamonds. Luxury retailers have been quick to sound the alarm, warning that supplies of tanzanite will not last forever. And in this case, they’re right. Once the last purple gem is pulled from the Earth, that’s it. No more tanzanite. Most believe that we only have a twenty year supply left, which is why it’s so amazing for us to offer this incredible price break. Some retailers along Fifth Avenue are more than happy to charge you outrageous prices for this rarity.

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More Power

NC Co-ops’ Rick Feathers to Retire Charlie Bayless named as his successor as general counsel

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ick Feathers, senior vice president and general counsel for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, has announced his retirement. Feathers, who has served cooperatives, their members and communities for more than 18 years, will be succeeded by Vice President and Senior Regulatory Counsel Charlie Bayless at the end of the year.

“The depth of legal and utility industry knowledge Rick possesses and has applied over the last 18 years has been instrumental in shaping policy and advocating “His dedication for the needs to the mission of of electric cooperatives electric co-ops and their will have an members impact on co-op in North Carolina and communities beyond,” for generations said Joe Brannan, to come.” executive vice president and CEO of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

“His dedication to the mission

of electric co-ops will have an impact on co-op communities for generations to come.”

Feathers, a Wake Forest University graduate, earned a law degree from the University of Virginia following six years of service in the United States Army, punctuated by assignment to Fort Bragg’s 82nd Airborne Division. Upon completion of law school, Feathers practiced law for firms in Virginia and North Carolina, leaving the firm currently known as Womble Bond Dickinson to join North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives in 2003.

“I grew up in a rural, cooperativeserved community in Virginia, and I carried those experiences with me to this role,” Feathers said. “Our state’s rural people and communities deserve the same access to affordable, reliable electricity and energy innovation as anyone, and it has been a privilege to advocate on their behalf.”

Bayless has been an integral part of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives' legal team since 2010.

He graduated from Virginia Military Institute and the West Virginia

Rick Feathers

University College of Law. Following five years of service in the U.S. Air Force (see “Co-ops and the Military: A Shared ‘Esprit de Corps’,” page 6), he was selected for the role of senior vice president and general counsel because of his experience on state and national energy issues.

“As a network of cooperatives, we are driven by our service to people and communities,” Brannan said. “Charlie is a strong leader and is capable of balancing service to cooperative members with the pace, demands and opportunities of the rapidly evolving energy industry as we work toward our commitment of building a Brighter Future for North Carolina.”

C A R O L I N A C O U N T R Y S C E N E S

Photo Contest

Send us your best photo (Carolina people or scenes) and the story that goes with it. We will pay $50 for each one published in the Carolina Country Scenes section of our January 2022 issue. Judges will select more for our “Featured Photos” throughout the year, and we’ll pay $50 for those as well.

Rules Deadline: November 15, 2021 One entry per household Digital photos should be a minimum of 1200 by 1800 pixels, while print photos need to be at least 4 x 6 inches.

Include your name, electric co-op, mailing address and email address or phone number If you want your print returned, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. (We will not return others.)

If you did not take the photo you are submitting, please tell us who did and, to the best of your ability, when it was taken so that we can appropriately recognize the person/organization.

We retain reprint and online rights. Visit carolinacountry.com/photocontest for full terms and conditions.

Payment will be limited to those entries appearing in print only, not entries featured solely on carolinacountry.com.

Send to Online: carolinacountry.com/photocontest No emails, please.

Mail: Carolina Country Photo Contest 3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616

10 | November 2021

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Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction

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On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise.

Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.

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“Delicious, affordable, great food and

excellent customer service!!”

The Best Around selected by our readers

By Leah Chester-Davis Now in its third year, Carolina’s Finest has become a popular feature in our magazine.

This year, our readers nominated their favorites for barbecue, burger joint, bakery shop, festival, getaway, main street, family outing, public garden, landmark and made in NC product. We believe you will be just as excited as we were to learn the favorites in this year’s categories — they do not disappoint!

12 | November 2021

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Hwy 55

Finest Burger Joint

Various locations | hwy55.com

With its nostalgic décor, black and white checkerboard tiles, and comfy booths you can sink into, Hwy 55 has the aura of a daysgone-by diner. It’s the hamburgers, though, that our readers seem to love! Menu items include nods to the state like its Carolina Classic or the John Boy & Billy BBQ Bacon Burger, which includes the sauce made famous on the duo’s Charlotte-based nationally syndicated show by Carl the Cook (johnboyandbillysauce.com). Founder Kenney Moore opened Andy’s Cheesesteaks and Cheeseburgers — what would later become Hwy 55 — in Goldsboro in 1991. The chain has since grown to more than 100 locations in eight states. No matter where you live, you’re likely to find one nearby!

Delicious, affordable, great food and EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE!!

—Amy, Nashville, a member of Edgecombe-Martin County EMC

Finest BBQ

“…the owner works numerous hours weekly to make sure

his customers are happy.”

Finest Bakery Shop

Fancy Pastry Shop

407 E. Center Street, Lexington facebook.com/fancypastryshop | 336-248-2279

Cream horns, oatmeal cookies, doughnut holes, apple fritters, pies and decorated cakes are among the many confections that make the Fancy Pastry Shop in Lexington a go-to spot for many of our readers. The delicious goodness keeps them returning and standing in line to get a bakery box filled with their favorite tasty treats. In 2000, David and Tami Rothrock began running the shop that Tami’s father started in 1969, using his recipes. Several of their customers are now on the fourth generation of family members to enjoy this local scratch bakery.

They are the best bakery in the world! They make everything homemade and from scratch, and the owner works numerous hours weekly to make sure his customers are happy.

—Haleigh Davis of Lexington

Finest Festival

Apple City BBQ

Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival

3490 NC Hwy 16 South, Taylorsville applecitybbq.com | 828-471-5215

A pile of hickory wood near the smoke pit and a packed parking lot are two signals that Apple City BBQ in Taylorsville is the place to stop. Adam Dula, who owns the establishment with his wife Haley and parents Myron and Robin Dula, says their business model is simple: “Do one thing and do it right. In our case, that one thing is barbecue,” Adam says. His brother David is the pitmaster and has joined Adam in perfecting a high quality, craft product that has folks raving.

Authentic, certified, wood-smoked BBQ! Brisket so tender you can eat with a spoon. Chicken is so moist, which is HARD to do. Sauces are delicious!

Pulled pork so tasty it doesn’t even need sauce.

Homemade pimento cheese brisket egg rolls are to DIE FOR!!! Best BBQ place I’ve ever eaten at.

—Brandon Jolly, Taylorsville

2nd Saturday in September 1988 Jericho Church Road, Mocksville | cbcbluegrass.com

Bluegrass music and good cheer fill the air the second Saturday in September at the Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival in Mocksville, served by EnergyUnited.

This festival — also voted one of Carolina’s Finest in 2019 — offers up an impressive slate of musicians in a family friendly environment, and it’s all for a good cause. Started 10 years ago as a fundraiser for the Camp’s scholarship fund, the festival has turned into an event for folks of all ages.

Great music and family atmosphere, supporting a great cause!

—Brian Baity, Statesville, a member of EnergyUnited

carolinacountry.com | 13

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Margarita Galvan

2021

VisitNC.com

“I

“It truly looks like a scene from a

historic movie…”

Finest Mainstreet

Finest Family Outing

White Street, Wake Forest

The North Carolina Zoo

wakeforestnc.gov

4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro nczoo.org | 800-488-0444

White Street in Wake Forest packs an eclectic mix of shops, coffee, wine and food establishments, a brewing company, and a day spa into a few blocks that is accented with stately lampposts and large containers of seasonal plantings. It’s a fun street to stroll and explore. Among the treasures you’ll find is the North Carolina Specialty Shop, featuring a wide range of tasty food products; Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs; Bodega Tapas & Wine; The Cotton Company; and B & W Hardware Company. Stop in and get a bag of complimentary popcorn to enjoy as you browse the store and explore all this popular street has to offer.

It truly looks like a scene from a historic movie while still being on trend and alive! Truly a destination any time someone comes to visit me from out of town.

Beaded lizards and bears and elephants, oh my! The North Carolina Zoo appeals to all ages and offers adventure, wonder and a wide range of animals and plants in the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, served

by Randolph EMC. More than 1,800 animals reside in four different habitats: North America, Africa, the aviary, and the desert. The marvels of nature abound, from polar bears and alligators, to giraffes and lions, to Chilean flamingoes and golden-crested mynas, to Gila monsters and the ornate uromastyx (a lizard found in Africa and Asia). Feeding times are popular to see animals and zookeepers at work; check the website on the day of your visit for times.

It’s just an awesome experience for animal lovers and families.

—Lynne Coble, Staley, a member of Randolph EMC

—Krista, Wake Forest, a member of Wake Electric

Finest Getaway Emerald Isle emeraldisle-nc.org | 252-354-3424

VisitNC.com

Emerald Isle. The name alone evokes a place of beauty and charm. This getaway spot, served by Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, sits at the tip of the southern Outer Banks and at the western end of the Bogue Banks barrier island.

The island offers stretches of pristine beaches, incredible views of the ocean and Bogue Inlet, and a variety of water sports, fishing, shopping, golfing, or relaxing while simply sinking your toes in the sand and breathing the ocean air.

Twelve miles of sandy beaches, a beautiful bike trail and a community focused on ‘Nice Matters’!

—Matt Zapp, Stella, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

14 | November 2021

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Reroute Marketing

VisitNC.com

VisitNC.com

“It’s a great reprieve

The Finest in 2022 We’ll be relying on you again next

2022

for college students or hospital workers…”

year to share your opinions on Carolina’s Finest. Look for voting to open in our April 2022 issue.

Finest Public Garden

Finest Made in NC Product

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

George’s Barbecue Sauce

420 Anderson St., Durham gardens.duke.edu | 919-684-3698

georgesbbqsauce.com | 252-459-3084

Inspiration abounds at Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a premier public garden on 55 acres of the Duke University campus in Durham.

The landscaped and wooded gardens accentuate Mother Nature’s beauty, offering a peaceful environment to relax, walk, explore, photograph eye-catching plants, or learn about gardening and plants on one of the educational programs or tours. Bold plantings, thousands of plant species, terraces, sculptures, and water features make up the gardens. With five miles of allées, walks, and pathways, visitors get a chance to enjoy four distinct garden areas.

This garden backs to the Duke campus and Duke University Hospital. It’s a great reprieve for college students or hospital workers on lunch break. It’s nice for family photos, a wedding, or a family stroll.

C

It’s only fitting that the winner in the “Finest Made in NC Product” would have something to do with barbecue! George’s Barbecue Sauce claims the favored spot in our readers’ hearts (and bellies)!

An Eastern-style barbecue sauce, George’s has been around since 1975 when the company’s founder, George Stallings, cooked up a batch, sold it from his pickup in Rocky Mount, and ended up with a bunch of fans for his homemade concoction.

Today, Ashley and Brian Hassell continue to use George’s recipe to make the sauce in small batches at their production facility on the family farm near Nashville. The stand-out, bright yellow labeled jars are shipped to grocery stores statewide.

Reminds me of my Granddaddy’s.

—Wendy Smith, Boone, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

—Grace Denton, Durham, a member of Piedmont Electric

Finest NC Landmark Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 46379 Lighthouse Road, Buxton bit.ly/chlighthouse | 252-473-2111

VisitNC.com

The black and white candy cane stripes make the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse one of the most recognizable in the country, as well as a beloved North Carolina landmark. It is the tallest brick lighthouse in the country, reaching nearly 200 feet.

It’s a “must-visit” while on the Outer Banks. For intrepid souls, lighthouse climbs are available. Plan on navigating narrow stairs with 257 steps, the equivalent of a 12-story building, with two-way traffic and a handrail on only one side.

The sparking blue waters make for a pristine backdrop for this beautiful lighthouse. The view from the top overlooking the surrounding islands is just as stunning.

—Christin, Fayetteville, a member of Lumbee River EMC

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10/8/21 3:55 PM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.

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

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

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embership M

11 TWENTY TWENTY ONE

MATTERS

Cold weather is coming Tips to manage winter bills Cold weather is coming! Higher bills can result from heating as well as increased use of lighting since more time is spent indoors as the days get shorter. To manage your winter electric bills, Blue Ridge Energy offers these following tips: Be energy efficient. Simple steps help! Set your thermostats to the lowest comfortable level. Open curtains on sunny days to let in natural heat; close them at night. Only run full loads in dishwashers. Use cold water for washing clothes. Limit shower times to reduce hot water usage. Turn off unnecessary lights.

Try FlexPay. You control your payment schedule and amounts with FlexPay! Pay as you use by phone, kiosk or online. No late fees or deposits, but you must maintain a positive account balance to keep electricity flowing.

Use Budget Billing. Equalize your payments for 11 months. In the 12th month, your account is “evened up” with a final payment billed or credit applied.

Help paying your bill: • Be sure to contact your local social services agency for special assistance options, including Operation Round Up® or state and federal crisis assistance programs.

• You can also call Blue Ridge Energy to set up a payment arrangement plan.

Free to members: Usage Tracker! This daily electricity tracker alerts you to high electricity usage, which can help you avoid a high bill! Go to BlueRidgeEnergy.com > My Account > Usage Tracker or click “Usage Details” on the Blue Ridge mobile app to monitor your daily usage.

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THE

Perspective Giving back: Member s Foundation Giving back is a cooperative tradition.

That’s why we formed the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation. It’s the power of partnership between members and your electric cooperative.

Because of our member’s generosity in donating to Operation Round Up®, which helps fund the Foundation, this year we have been able to meet the needs of our members struggling to pay their energy bills as well as allocate $150,000 in community grants to local, not-for-profit helping organizations.

The cooperative’s two subsidiaries, Blue Ridge Energy Propane and Fuels and RidgeLink, also contribute $50,000 annually to the Foundation.

This year, we received a record number of applications for community grants — 90 in total. Last year as many experienced the financial impacts of COVID, we had a record number of members requesting assistance to help pay their energy bill and all Foundation funds were used to meet this need. With the level of crisis bill assistance requests now decreasing, we are pleased to be able to once again award community grants to local organizations that help our members in so many ways with critical needs and assistance.

In fact, Blue Ridge Energy has prioritized its community grant program to focus on economic and community development programs and projects that improve local quality of life. The Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation seeks new grant

Page 18

Blue Ridge-1121.indd 18

From Blue Ridge CEO Doug Johnson

applications each spring and summer and awards are made based on needs identified in our communities.

I want to give a sincere thank you to our members who contribute to Operation Round Up. Without you, this level of assisting local communities and members wouldn’t be possible. Many even donate more by enrolling in Operation Round Up Plus® and still others opt to donate their capital credits refunds in the spring. You’ll learn more about how to donate in this and other issues of the newsletter and Carolina Country.

Finally, I want to also say thank you to the members who help guide the Foundation. A Foundation Advisory Committee, made up of volunteer members, reviews grant applications annually and makes recommendations to the Foundation’s Board of Directors for funding approval.

Working together, your Members Foundation is helping improve the quality of life for people in our area while also serving those in need of a helping hand!

To learn more about the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation visit: BlueRidgeEnergy. com/members-foundation. To learn more about Operation Round Up, see the cover wrap on this issue of Carolina Country or visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/community/ operation-round-up.

Membership MAT TERS

10/8/21 12:45 PM

S

In A o f in b

P A c o

T w t t

O

Outdoor lighting: security and beauty

Ridge hnson

Outdoor lighting available from Blue Ridge Energy can enhance the safety, curb appeal, and landscaping of your home! Select from a variety of lighting styles, including LED options.

Outdoor security lights can be added to your monthly electric bill. For more information, visit blueridgeenergy.com/outdoor-lighting.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http:// www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form.To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Page 19 Blue Ridge-1121.indd 19

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Did you know ...

Blue Ridge Energy maintains over: • 5,550 miles of overhead power lines • 2,880 miles of underground lines • 115,000 poles • 30 substations

Bylaws, Service Rules & Regulations updates:

At their regular board meeting held on September 23, 2021, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation’s Board of Directors approved two updates to the cooperative’s Bylaws and Service Rules and Regulations.

Redline versions indicating changes as well as final documents are available online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com > Company > Board & Governance.

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

Membership MAT TERS

Blue Ridge-1121.indd 20

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10/8/21 12:45 PM

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10/7/21 11:54 AM

On the House

Happier Cooking With Kitchen Ventilation Say goodbye to smoke and smells

By Jonathan Susser

Q: A:

I am getting tired of the heat and odors that build up in my kitchen. How can I keep the smells, smoke and steam from sitting there while I cook?

Good news: Your home likely already has an appliance for just that purpose. Unfortunately, people often don’t know much about it or how to use it.

I’m talking about the range hood and its cousins. Like it sounds, a range hood is more or less a hood that sits over your range or cooktop.

It’s usually metal, and comes in many shapes, sizes and styles. Basically, a range hood just sucks up the odor, grease and moisture particles from your cooking and dumps them elsewhere.

In the best-case scenario for all kitchens, that “elsewhere” is outside, thanks to ductwork through your roof or an exterior wall. Venting to the outside is particularly important for homes that use liquid fuel as a cooking source, since you don’t want carbon monoxide or combustion byproducts lingering around to ruin your appetite, or worse. (Now that it’s on your mind, it’s probably a good idea to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide alarm.)

A slightly less beneficial ventilation option is a range hood that is not ducted but rather recirculating. In this setup, the hood sucks up all that air, filters it for grease and particulates — and sometimes chemicals if a charcoal

filter is present — and then exhausts air back into your kitchen. This is not as good as ejecting contaminants away from your home, but it still helps with air quality, smoke and odors when used.

Instead of a hood above your range, you may have a microwave, like I do, that has an exhaust fan built in. The bottom of the microwave is the intake that draws in the air, and again, it can either move that air through ductwork to the outside or, more likely, recirculate it back into the kitchen through the top of the equipment, at about forehead level.

Another ventilation tool is a downdraft exhaust fan. Downdrafts typically come up next to your range or cooktop when operated and can be convenient if you don’t have a ceiling nearby for a range hood.

Fighting physics, downdrafts suck the pollutants down and out of your kitchen. However, for this reason they are often very powerful — don’t let your cat get too close — and can even backdraft your chimney (which can be harmful for air quality, health and safety) if makeup air is not provided from a better location.

No matter what kind of kitchen ventilation you have, it would benefit from occasional maintenance to keep it running well. For example,

it likely has a metal filter that can get gooey from the grease and moisture byproducts it traps. This filter should be cleaned or replaced if you notice that it’s getting dirty.

If you’re looking to upgrade your current setup (ventilation can be a great part of any kitchen remodel), be sure to do your research, ask friends or neighbors for recommendations, and get quotes from a few contractors if you go that route.

If you’re hoping to vent to the outside, you have a few options.

Getting a ducted range hood is the most common, but it’s also the most involved if the parts aren’t in place already. Another possibility is to just have an exhaust fan installed on a wall or ceiling close to your stove, a similar idea to a bathroom exhaust fan.

So there you have it. Feel free to use kitchen ventilation whenever someone in your household is whipping up a meal. It’ll keep you from needing to pinch your nose, help cool things off and limit condensation, mold and mildew, providing a much more pleasant cooking experience.

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

22 | November 2021

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W LO AS

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Actual size is 30.6 mm

“Atrocious Hideousness”

Teddy Roosevelt Inspired the Silver Walking Liberty

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alking Liberty Half Dollars, or “Walkers” as they were called, led a coin renaissance in the U.S. that was in large part inspired by President Teddy Roosevelt’s 1904 comment that U.S. coinage was “artistically of atrocious hideousness.” During the first two decades of the 20th century, every circulating coin denomination in the U.S. got a new look.

The front of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar features Adolph Weinman’s Walking Liberty design of a confident Miss Liberty striding toward the sun and the dawning of a new day, draped in an American flag, carrying laurel and oak branches representing peace and strength.

Design Used on the Best-Selling Coin Ever!

This design proved to be so beloved that it was chosen for the Silver Eagle Silver Dollar series back in 1986, a coin that has been the best-selling coin in history! The Walking Liberty’s back depicts a bold eagle with spread wings perched on a rocky crag from which grows a pine branch, a symbol of strength. Together the two images perfectly portrayed the dual message that

the U.S. had peaceful intentions, but was prepared to defend itself against aggression.

Worth Much More than 50¢

The beautiful, optimistic, solidly American design of Walking Liberty Half Dollars would have made the coins noteworthy in any historical age. But the fact that they were in circulation during the most challenging of times, through World War I and World War II and the Great Depression, significantly elevates their importance in U.S. history! Their patriotic design influenced the lives of millions of U.S. citizens well beyond their 50-cent value. Minted for 31 years (1916-1947), these half dollars embodied American pride, resolve and spirit.

90% Fine Silver in Very Good Condition

Walking Liberty Half Dollars are struck in 12.50 grams of 90% silver. Half dollars today are minted in cupro-nickel, and there hasn’t been a precious silver half dollar in 55 years. Your Walkers will be dated 1934 to 1947 (dates vary) and will arrive in Very Good (VG) collectors condition.

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Carolina Gardens

Scent-sational Hyacinths Plant now for a fragrant spring Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

N

ovember is a grand time to plant spring-flowering bulbs, and gardeners are on the move to find not only the prettiest blooms for their landscapes, but, if possible, scented ones, too. Beauty from any of the typical three — daffodils, crocuses and tulips — is a given, although fragrant selections from them can be elusive. They exist, but you darn near have to sniff your nose inside out to detect their weak scents.

Not so with hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis). On crisp, early spring days, I usually smell my hyacinths before I see them. They are just that fragrant.

Hyacinths aren’t lacking in the goodlooks department either. Held up on short, sturdy stems, crowded clusters of flared flowers salute the new spring in a dizzying assortment of colors that rival the range found on a rainbow.

As a bonus, hyacinths are more like daffodils and crocuses rather than one-season wonders like tulips, meaning they will come back spring after spring. However, I have found their flower shows can diminish over the

years. Replanting more bulbs when their bloom production starts to wain is an obvious solution, and hyacinths — inexpensive, by the way — are worth the effort.

Hyacinth bulbs are best planted about 5 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart in a well-draining, well-tilled bed that basks in the springtime sun. (Too much shade will lead to floppy flowers.)

And too much nitrogen too fast (the typical bang plants get from standard fertilizers such as 8-8-8 or 10-10-10) will also cause the droops by stretching and weakening the stems, so it is best to use a time-release bulb fertilizer at planting time. Specialized bulb fertilizer, which is an easy find at most garden shops, costs more than regular fertilizer, but does provide a better, stretch-out nutrient nudge for primo hyacinth displays.

To intensify the eye-candy effect, plant hyacinths of the same color in swaths across perennial beds. This will certainly make these pretties hard to miss and definitely pooch up the fragrance factor. Also, because the nose

Hyacinths

will know they are around, consider growing hyacinths in containers close to areas you frequent, such as doorways, decks, porches or windows.

Finally, while gardeners are attracted to hyacinths, don’t expect the same adoration from those banes of bulb growers: deer and rabbits. Ditto for dirt-digging squirrels, who hate the bulbs. This makes hyacinths ideal springtime beauties for those who have to deal with such four-legged garden beasts!

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

Garden To-Do’s for November

Hyacinths F

Hyacinths showing up in stores during the holiday season will have been pre-chilled, so they will bloom earlier indoors than their typical flowering kin outdoors. Whether planted in potting soil or even glasses of water, these fragrant pretties will certainly bring cheer in the winter gloom! But even after their flower shows have finished, there is plenty of blooming spunk left in these bulbs. Just leave the hyacinths in a sunny spot indoors through the winter and then plant them in the spring garden.

Since their flowering rhythm has been thrown off, keep in mind they probably won’t rebloom for two to three years.

Two tips for new African violet growers: (1) Wipe the pot rims at least once a month to prevent salt buildup from fertilizer, which can burn the leaves and cause them to curl; and (2) at the same time, give each container a quarter turn to prevent plants from becoming lopsided as they reach for the sun.

F

Did your hollyhocks look raggedy this year? Chances are good they were inflicted with a disease called rust.

To help prevent this blight next summer, cut off the old stems — where rust likes to overwinter — and toss them in the trash. Do not compost.

24 | November 2021

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Carolina Adventures

EV Adventure: The Mountains Are Calling

carolinacountry.com/extras Get coordinates for mentioned charging stations in the online version of this article.

(and I Must Go Charge)

By Alexis Giannattasio and Jonathan Susser

M

aybe it’s the idyllic scenery or the charming towns; the great food and drinks (craft beer, anyone?) or the public art; or the countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Western North Carolina has something for everyone, and it’s no surprise that it draws so many visitors from both in and out of state. If you’re venturing to the region in an electric vehicle (EV), there’s now more to do — and more places to plug in — than ever.

Cherokee, Maggie Valley

Sitting on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (nps.gov/grsm) is the most visited national park in the country, and getting there by EV is about to get easier. Thanks to Haywood EMC, there will soon be a DC fast charger off I-40 in Waynesville. It will be the westernmost DC fast charger in the state.

If you’re looking for more activities in the area, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (gsmr.com) can be great family fun. You’ll also be near the ancestral home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (visitcherokeenc.com). You’ll find a spot to charge up at the Cherokee Welcome Center, which is right by the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. And maybe you can try your luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, which has multiple Level 2 plugs and Level 1 outlets.

For something a little quieter, you won’t want to miss the local shops and restaurants of Maggie Valley, which has a Level 2 charging station of its own.

Tail of the Dragon

On a scale of 1 to 10, Tail of the Dragon (bit.ly/cc-tail) would rank a solid 12 when it comes to adventure. Considered America’s number one motorcycle and sports car road, the 11-mile stretch of U.S. 129 boasts 318 curves and is featured in numerous Hollywood classics. If you’re brave enough to slay the dragon, you can charge up as you take a stroll through the souvenir store or grab a bite at the restaurant across the street.

Level 2 charging for Teslas and non-Teslas alike is available to the public.

More places to explore

Waterfalls and grand mountain peaks often bring travelers to western North Carolina, but some of the most surprising treasures are tucked away off the beaten path.

If you’re heading toward Mt. Mitchell (bit.ly/ncp-mm), the highest peak east of the Mississippi, take a detour in the surrounding towns along the way. Little Switzerland (visitlittleswitzerland.com)is quite the jewel on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It offers a quiet place to recharge (for you and your vehicle) at the Switzerland Inn. Thanks to Blue Ridge Energy, you can visit the rural areas near the top of our state with ease and charge up in West Jefferson at the Hotel Tavern.

For the best of both worlds — scenic lodging — there are many options to choose from. Various campgrounds trail North Carolina’s borders, including Mountain River Family Campground, River’s Edge Mountain RV Resort and Catawba Falls Family Campground. Each offers plugs and activities for the family, even if you don’t stay the night.

Tesla experience

Western North Carolina is also home to one of the Southeast’s most unique EV events: the Blue Ridge Parkway Tesla Drive (triangletesla.org/brptesladrive) in which more than 100 Tesla owners gather for a trip down America’s Favorite Drive.

It’s quite an experience! The next meetup is happening in April 2022, so if you have a Tesla or are thinking about getting one soon, the event is worth checking out and a great way to connect with fellow EV drivers.

Alexis Giannattasio and Jonathan Susser work for Advanced Energy, the Raleigh-based nonprofit energy consulting firm.

The adventure continues Darryl Cannon

Never fear your EV running out of charge while hugging the 318 curves of "Tail of the Dragon" — level 2 chargers await!

This column wraps up our EV Adventure series, but the fun doesn’t stop here. As North Carolina’s electric cooperatives and others continue to build charging infrastructure, it is becoming more and more manageable to drive on electrons from the mountains to the sea. Visit ncdriveelectric.com and pluginnc.com to learn more about EVs.

26 | November 2021

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Plug Into a Better Driving Experience DRIVE ELECTRIC

Power your next adventure with an EV. With exciting tech, reduced emissions and more convenience, electric vehicles have something for everyone.

As EV charging options expand statewide, there are more opportunities to escape than ever before. North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are providing cooperative members and travelers solutions for driving electric. See how driving electric can fit your life at NCDriveElectric.com.

NCDriveElectric.com

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Carolina Calendar

Christmas Open House Carriage rides, music Nov. 21, Lexington

November Events MOUNTAINS The Magical Lamp of Aladdin Musical comedy for kids Nov. 5–6, Franklin 828-524-1598 smokymountainarts.com

Studio Arts Tour

Through Yancey, Mitchell counties Nov. 12–14, Burnsville 828-765-0520 toeriverarts.org

Leonids Meteor Shower Experience

Evening under the stars Nov. 19, Rosman 828-862-5554 pari.edu

Holiday Street Lighting Carols, hot cocoa Nov. 26, Hendersonville 800-828-4244 visithendersonvillenc.org

PIEDMONT Exquisite Creatures

Exhibit with three-dimensional displays Through March 2022, Raleigh 919-707-9950 naturalsciences.org

Holly Day Fair

Craft gift show Nov 4–7, Fayetteville 910-438-4100 hollydayfair.com

Rhonda Vincent & The Rage Bluegrass music Nov 5, Mount Airy 336-786-7998 surryarts.org

Chili Cook-Off

Kids zone, music Nov 6, Hope Mills 910-426-2537 fb.me/e/HwqFDDDk

Ladies Night Out

Author-singer shares message Nov. 19, Charlotte 704-401-3200 billygrahamlibrary.org

Meadow Lights

Big light display, train ride Nov. 19–Dec. 31, Benson info@meadowlights.com meadowlights.com

All That Brass Nov 20, Fayetteville 910-433-4690 fayettevillesymphony.org

Craft Show Nov. 20, Asheboro 336-873-7726 peridot40@hotmail.com

Christmas Open House Carriage rides, carolers Nov 21, Lexington 336-249-0383 uptownlexingtonnc.com

COAST FY5

Contemporary country, bluegrass Nov. 5, Oriental 252-617-2125 pamlicomusic.org

Veterans Day Celebration & Parade

Food, craft vendors Nov. 6, Warsaw 910-293-7804 warsawchambernc.com

Fall Festival Nov. 6, Cape Carteret 252-393-8483 townofcapecarteret.org

Currituck Bulls & BBQ Music, rodeo Nov. 6, Powells Point 252-453-9040 bullsandbbq.com

Cape Fear Kite Festival Food trucks, music Nov 6–7, Kure Beach fb.me/e/2BRulQu1o

Festival of Gifts Nov. 6–7, Camden 252-333-8334 hollydaysfestival@hotmail.com

Mistletoe Market Music, car show Nov. 13, St. Pauls 910-865-5164 stpaulsnc.gov

Pickles, Pigs & Swigs BBQ, bluegrass Nov. 20, Mount Olive 919-658-3113 moachamber.com

Holiday Lighting Celebration Nov. 26, Elizabeth City 252-338-4104 visitelizabethcity.com

Holiday Flotilla Nov. 27, Ocean Isle 910-508-7749 ncbrunswick.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.

Veterans Day Celebration & Parade Food, craft vendors Nov. 6, Warsaw

28 | November 2021

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CC11-wk.indd 29

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HEARING AIDS TOO EXPENSIVE? Do you qualify for help or low payments? Hearing Aid Helpline 866-479-1519 STUDENT LOAN RELIEF HELPLINE. Do you qualify for forgiveness? 800-379-0954 ARROWHEADS, buying all types of authentic Indian artifacts . Any size collection. 757-373-3502 BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KITS: infinitysurvival.net call 316-217-3127 coupon code MD2170 PAYING CASH FOR OLD COMIC BOOKS AND OLD TOYS. Call Alex 704-616-6567 CASH PAID FOR OLD FISHING LURES–Call Rick Hutton 704-695-4917

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4 BURIAL PLOTS OAKLAND CEMETERY ASHEBORO $6500 all 4 336-483-5551

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To place a classified ad: carolinacountry.com/classifieds

TRIANGLE DETECTORS. Large selection of metal detectors and gold prospecting equipment, SALES & RENTALS. Durham 919-949-4007

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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.

30 | November 2021

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Marketplace

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Statement of Ownership and Circulation Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685 Title of Publication: Carolina Country Publication Number: ISSN 0008-6746 Filing Date: September 17, 2021 Issued monthly, 12 times annually. Subscription price is $5.00 for members, $12.00 for non-members. Mailing address of office is 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, N.C. 27616, Wake County. Publisher is North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc., 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, N.C. 27616. Editor is Warren Kessler, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, N.C. 27616. Owner is North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc., 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, N.C. 27616. There are no other owners or bondholders. The purpose, function and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes have not changed during the preceding 12 months. Circulation: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months, also actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date (September 2020). Total copies: Average 737,319 (September: 747,823).

Paid Circulation: Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales: None. Mail subscription: Average 730,653 (September: 740,429). Total Paid Circulation: Average 730,653 (September 740,429). Free Distribution by mail carrier, or other means, samples complimentary and other free copies: Average 6,666 (September: 7,394). Total Distribution: Average: 737,319 (September 747,823). Copies Not Distributed: Office use, leftover, unaccounted, spoiled after printing; Average: 0 (September: 0). Returns from news agents: None. Total: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 737,319 (September: 747,823).

carolinacountry.com | 31

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Carolina Kitchen

S

W

C t g o

Orange-Cranberry Quick Bread

I l g

With its fragrant aroma dairy and enticing taste, this free bread makes a good breakfast or snack. When cooled completely, it freezes well. Baking for dairy-sensitive folks? Vegan margarine works instead of the butter.

2 ½ ½ 1½ 1 1 1

cups all-purpose flour teaspoon salt teaspoon baking soda teaspoons baking powder cup sugar cup chopped pecans cup fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw) 3 tablespoons butter, melted Grated rind of 1 orange ¾ cup orange juice ½ teaspoon vanilla 1 egg Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder and sugar. Add the pecans and cranberries, and toss gently.

In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, orange rind and orange juice. Stir in the vanilla and the egg until combined.

Add the butter mixture to the flour mixture and stir to combine, but don’t over-mix. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes, or until you can touch the pan, then turn the loaf out onto the rack and let cool completely before serving.

Yield: 1 loaf

t d

s s

Y

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.

Fall Vegetable Casserole

This recipe can be a hearty side dish to roast chicken or turkey, or a vegetarian main dish by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth. Apple cider gives the best flavor, but if using apple juice, purchase a brand with less sugar. We prefer the milder flavor of marjoram, but you can use oregano instead.

3 1 1 1 1 4

tablespoons olive oil cup chopped onions pound cremini mushrooms, sliced cup pearled barley cup long-grain brown rice cups peeled sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or a combo, in 1-inch cubes

1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup apple cider or apple juice 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth 1 teaspoon thyme 1 teaspoon marjoram ¾ teaspoons salt, divided

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan on medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and sprinkle on about ¼ teaspoon salt.

Continue to cook until the mushrooms are soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.

Spread the barley and rice on the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Spread the sweet potato and squash cubes over the grains, then add the black beans. Sprinkle on about ½ teaspoon salt, then distribute the mushrooms and onions on top. Pour the apple cider or juice and the broth over the ingredients. It will look like a lot of liquid, but it’s needed to cook the grains. Sprinkle on the thyme and marjoram.

Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour, or until almost all of the liquid has been absorbed and the grains are cooked.

Yield: 10–12 as a side dish; 8–10 as a main dish

32 | November 2021

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Carolina Kitchen

Spinach and Chard Salad

From Your Kitchen

With tahini vinaigrette

Chard works well with spinach in this fall salad, but be sure to remove tough stems and use only the leaves. The vinaigrette is also good on grilled or roasted vegetables. Tahini is available in many supermarkets, or try Middle Eastern markets for more choices.

2 ¼ 2 1 ¼ ¼ ¼

tablespoons tahini cup olive oil teaspoons sherry vinegar teaspoon lemon juice teaspoon honey teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper

1 garlic clove, crushed 4 cups fresh spinach leaves 3½ cups torn chard leaves, stems removed 4 thin slices of a medium or small red onion 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt and pepper until combined. Stir in the garlic clove. Let sit while you prepare the salad.

In a large bowl, toss together the spinach and chard. Separate the onion and arrange the slices on top, then sprinkle on the dried cranberries.

Strain the garlic clove from the dressing, then drizzle it on the salad. You may not need all of it; use your discretion. Toss and serve immediately.

Yield: About 4 servings

Mom’s Gingerbread

Everyone should have a good, basic gingerbread recipe in their baking repertoire, and this is it. Medium moist with a good crumb and full-fledged gingerbread flavor, this little cake proves that mom knows best after all.

teaspoons baking soda teaspoons hot water pinch salt cup sugar cup oil (we used coconut oil) 3 eggs 1 cup molasses

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

2 2 1 1 1

2 1 1 1 1

cups all-purpose flour teaspoon cloves teaspoon ginger teaspoon cinnamon cup boiling water Whipped topping, optional

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Dissolve baking soda in hot water, then add a pinch of salt.

Mix sugar and oil with eggs and molasses. Then add in the dissolved baking soda water.

Sprinkle in dry ingredients and mix.

Add the boiling water last. Mixture will be thin.

Bake in a 13-by-9-inch greased pan for 40–45 minutes.

Cool and served with whipped topping if you like.

Recipe courtesy of Annette Clontz of Belews Creek

Send Us Your Recipes

Baked Apples with Honey Topping Each month, we’re taking a look back at some old favorites from our recipe archive. For November, check out “Baked Apples with Honey Topping” from 1971. See this recipe and more at carolinacountry.com/kitchencorner.

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.

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where

in Carolina Country is this ?

Send your answer by November 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 December issue, will receive $25.

October

October winner

The October “Where Is This” photo by Maxine Gordon features an old barn in western North Carolina along US Highway 64 between Murphy and Andrews, just outside of Hayesville near Sweetwater Gap. This metal sign-covered barn in Cherokee County, adds reader Judith Roe, belongs to her mom, who still lives nearby. “My mom and dad ran Hilltop Grocery for many years. Some of the signs came from different oil companies they worked with. My brothers, husband and nephews put the signs up.” The barn is one of many found along Highway 64, recorded as the longest numbered route in NC, running 604 miles from the Tennessee state line to the Outer Banks. The winning entry chosen at random from more than 400 correct submissions came from Dennis Carlson of Canton, a member of Haywood EMC. Have a roadside gem you’d like to share? Submit a photo, plus a brief description and general location information, at carolinacountry.com/where.

MUSIC

Sean Hagwell

Carolina

November’S FEATURED TRACK

“Dolly Would”

By The Dryes This new country tune is both an ode to superstar Dolly Parton and a sassy anthem about being bold. Katelyn and Derek Drye first thought they’d name it “Dollywood,” but the song morphed creatively into a fun ditty about trailblazing.

Katelyn and Derek were raised in Winston-Salem and Thomasville, respectively. From an early age, Katelyn dreamed of a musical career. “I grew up on country music and Jesus,” she says. “I never had an alternative plan.” Derek says he found his voice when he first picked up the guitar. “It changed my life immediately.” The couple recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary and are now based in the Nashville area.

E a l F c W a a

S s S c y h

A a

1

v

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

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10/8/21 2:40 PM

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9/24/21 1:50 PM 10/7/21 11:54 AM

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10/7/21 11:54 AM

SCORE A CHANCE TO WIN

$500!

It’s easy. Simply update your current email address by Dec. 3 for your entry to win a $500 Visa gift card. You’ll catch important updates from your cooperative, too.

Get in the game! Choose one of these plays to enter:

Update your info at “My Account” on our website.

Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ EmailUpdate.

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Complete a form at any of our district offices.

* Only one contest entry per account. No purchase is necessary to enter or win. Void where prohibited by law.

Winner responsible for any applicable taxes.

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10/8/21 12:46 PM

Another combo that’s better together: Budget Billing and Bank Draft Some things are even better together. Here’s a combo that gives you greater control over your monthly bills, provides convenient payments and frees up your time: With Budget Billing,* you pay the same amount each month. No surprises.

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* A set payment amount is determined by your past 11 months’ usage. A final budget payment plus any “true up” amount, including any difference owed or credit due, will be billed in the 12th month to settle the account. Credits that exceed what is owed will be applied to monthly bills until credit is depleted. ** Your account will be drafted on the “DUE DATE” of the bill, giving you at least two weeks before your account is drafted.

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