2021-12-BRE

December 2021

Sending you and yours warm holiday wishes May your holidays be happy and filled with light. Your Blue Ridge Family hopes this season is joyful and bright.

PERIODICAL

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THE GIFT that keeps on giving

Being a member of a not-for-profit electric cooperative, like Blue Ridge Energy, brings benefits you can enjoy all year long:

Focused on YOU

• You receive capital credits. That’s money back to those who use our services.

• You have access to innovative services, including outage texting, flexible payment choices, solar options and tools to help you manage your energy usage.

• Your energy experts provide guidance on everything from smart thermostats to fireplaces to make your home cozier and efficient.

• Your cooperative supports local healthcare, education and job development to improve the quality of life in our communities.

Your Blue Ridge Energy membership. It truly is a gift that keeps on giving.

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December 2021

Baking Spirits

Bright Published by

What’s in NC’s new energy law? page 8

Greentop Gifts makes wrapping paper for all page 18

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge Energy provides board election information — pages 21–24 December covers.indd 3

11/9/21 4:02 PM

NORTH CAROLINA

PARKS AND TRAILS FOR HEALTH

Get on the PATH to health and wellbeing at N.C. parks, museums and historic sites.

pathnc.com Sign-up to recieve our newsletter, full of great outdoor opportunies.

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Volume 53, No. 12

16

12

Favorites 4 From Our Readers 6 Viewpoints 8 More Power 18 Carolina People 26 Energy Sense 30 I Remember 32 NC Outdoors 36 Carolina Calendar 38 Marketplace 40 Carolina Kitchen 42 Where is This?

42 Carolina Artist

On the Cover This Nantucket Cranberry Pie (recipe on page 41) is one of many recipes in this issue that will help dress up your holiday dinner table. Find more festive culinary ideas starting on page 12. Photo by Tara Verna.

12 16 28 34

34

Cooking Up a Festive Table Holiday recipes by reader request.

The Crop that Pops

Yadkin Valley Popcorn is a local leader in growing a beloved snack.

Kitchen Flops

Culinary catastrophes from our readers.

Save Room for Sonker

Discover a beloved dessert on the Surry County Sonker Trail.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

What’s Cooking in Your Kitchen?

This issue is chock full of recipes, but we want more!

Send us your recipes, and we’ll offer $25 for those published. See page 41 for details.

carolinacountry.com | 3

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THIS MONTH:

The Food Issue

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800)

Like a parent with their children, we couldn’t pick a favorite issue if asked. But our annual Food Issue sure is fun to put together. We hope you enjoy it, too, and perhaps find a dish worthy of your holiday table. A special Thank You to those of you who submitted tales of woe from failed recipes —d on’t miss Kitchen Flops on page 28. Also, historic energy legislation recently passed in North Carolina, which you can learn more about on page 8.

Volume 53, No. 12

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 Effective Ventilation I just received the November issue and felt the need to add to the “Happier Cooking with Kitchen Ventilation” article (page 22). With the newer energy codes starting in the 90s, homes were built tighter. This has caused the need for even better ventilation to remove contaminants from the indoor air. But power exhausting requires makeup air to replace the air being exited to enable the exhaust fan(s) to be effective. Try cracking a window while using the fan to test.

Joe Hennessey, via carolinacountry.com Great point, Joe. Cracking a window while using the fan can be an easy way to provide “makeup air” mentioned in the downdraft exhaust fan section of the article. Thanks for this friendly, no-cost reminder. Trying this out in mild weather could be useful, but the fan should perform whether the window is open or closed.

—Jonathan Coulter, senior consultant with Advanced Energy

Edgar Serrano Digital Media

Growing More Than Food Hats off for the September articles about creative approaches to agriculture: “Moving Forward Through Farming” and Farming for the Future “Fresh Produce Delivered.” Both Kamal Bell and Will Kornegay are using agriculture to serve far more than food. Thanks to Carolina Country for making their stories known.

September 2021

page 12

Making solar power more flexible page 8

Published by

Got Pests?

Seal them out! page 26

Bring on the heat at the NC Hot Sauce Contest —p age 30

Julia Williams, Denver A member of EnergyUnited

Correction to our October issue “The Mystery of the Missing ‘Power Saw’” (page 32) was written and submitted by Tom Grady, not Brady.

Although Tom graciously says it’s not the first time he’s been confused with the NFL quarterback, it’s no excuse for us. Sorry about that, Tom.

Cookies NOW I found a similar recipe for Peanut Butter Cookies (July 2021, page 33) at least 40 years ago and it became my go-to when I need a “cookie NOW” recipe. I have successfully substituted SunButter [made from sunflower seeds] when making them for my grandson with a peanut allergy. Love it!

Cathy Powell, via carolinacountry.com

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.

4 | December 2021

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Viewpoints

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Neighbors Helping Neighbors

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By Joshua L. Winslow, PE

For those of us in the electric co-op world, the concept of neighbors helping neighbors is more than a rural tradition; it is the way our organizations were founded. Working together to improve the communities we live in is in our DNA. Our actions continue to be guided by the Cooperative Principles, including Concern for Community, and in a time when consuming news can be challenging, it is good to be reminded of what we can accomplish when we work together.

Concern for Community is at work when co-ops engage in business development efforts that bring employers and jobs into service territories. It’s at work when we provide the support that helps start-ups succeed. And it’s at work when we collaborate with the towns and counties we serve to help our communities grow and become even better places to live.

Showing Concern for “All across our state, Community also means supporting a member’s individuals are making nonprofit that is making a difference. Brunswick a difference in the lives Electric member Barb Dullaghan wanted to of others, and their provide duffel bags with personal items to electric co-op is often foster children, because they were often moved there to support them.” quickly and without any belongings. Once she turned her vision into a reality, we were able to provide one of our Community Grants to help her keep the project going. All across our state, individuals are making a difference in the lives of others, and their electric co-op is often there to support them.

Sometimes, members go above and beyond in supporting their co-op’s efforts. Brunswick member Jane-Marie Terefencko used her 70th birthday as an opportunity to help her neighbors

through one of our initiatives. She celebrated by asking her friends and family to support our Warm Homes, Warm Hearts utility assistance program. They rose to the challenge, raising more than $13,000, which we matched.

A lot of people were helped by the strength of her intentions.

And sometimes, co-op employees are the ones inspired to develop programs to improve the communities they serve. Brunswick employee Judy Gore was talking to a teacher who was buying school supplies with her own money, and conceived the Bright Ideas Education Grants program more than 25 years ago, which has since been adopted by co-ops across the state. Teachers in thousands of North Carolina classrooms have been awarded funding for creative classroom projects that make learning better for their students, because of an idea that was acted upon.

Having Concern for Community as a North Star — part of our core mission — encourages people to see what might be possible, and deploy the resources to make it possible. When you know and care about those who live around you, the cooperative model can motivate you to action, and provide the framework to make amazing things happen. And isn’t that the kind of inspiration we need more of these days?

Joshua L. Winslow is CEO and general manager for Supply-based Brunswick Electric.

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WHY KIDS NEED 4-H CAMP NOW MORE THAN EVER! WWW.NC4HCAMPS.ORG

4-H CAMP PROMOTES PHYSICAL HEALTH

Combined with activities like swimming, canoeing, horseback riding, hiking and more, youth learn how to enjoy physical activity.

4-H CAMP TEACHES INDEPENDENCE

4-H CAMP CULTIVATES A SENSE OF BELONGING

Children are encouraged to push their boundaries, step out of their comfort zones and grow selfconfidence necessary to become independent.

4-H CAMP TEACHES RESPONSIBILITY

For many, 4-H camp is a first experience cleaning a cabin or setting a table. It may also be the first time campers work with others to overcome challenges.

4-H Camp gives young people the opportunity to be themselves while appreciating others with values, attitudes and abilities different from their own.

4-H CAMP BUILDS AFFINITY FOR NATURE Far from the digital screens at home, 4-H campers are fully immersed in the natural world.

North Carolina Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity provider.

Learn more about our three 4-H centers.

Youth DO NOT need to be enrolled in 4-H to participate.

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EST. 1964

eastern4hcenter.org 252-797-4800

bjpenn4h.org 336-349-9445

millstone4hcamp.com 910-652-5905

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More Power

North Carolina Passes Bipartisan Energy Legislation New law calls for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050

I

n October, NC Governor Roy Cooper signed historic bipartisan energy legislation into law. House Bill 951, titled Energy Solutions for North Carolina, sets the state’s electric sector on a path to reduce carbon emissions in the coming decades, utilizing least-cost solutions with a focus on maintaining or enhancing reliability.

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives supported the law because it recognizes the importance of creating a framework to support sustainability while prioritizing reliability and affordability. Cooperatives advocated for these priorities throughout the legislative process on behalf of the state’s 2.5 million electric co-op members.

“This legislation includes well thoughtout provisions to chart a path for North Carolina to responsibly decrease carbon emissions while ensuring consumer protections, also allowing for technology

advancements over time,” said Nelle Hotchkiss, senior vice president & COO of Association Services for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

The law applies primarily to Duke Energy, setting a goal for the investorowned utility to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and does not place any specific mandates on electric cooperatives. However, solutions identified by Duke Energy to meet its goal will likely be comparable to those electric co-ops have implemented or plan to implement in their voluntary pursuit of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Devising a plan to reach Duke Energy’s emissions reduction goals falls to the North Carolina Utilities Commission, with an implementation plan due December 2022. The plan will be revisited every two years to ensure the most current and effective technologies are being utilized.

Under the new law, the NC Utilities

Commission has the authority to retire coal-fired power plants and review cost-competitive replacements including renewable generation, batteries and natural gas-fired plants.

“We look forward to providing further input as the new law is implemented,” Hotchkiss said. “We will continue to advance our commitment to building a brighter future for electric co-op members and their communities, while making affordability and reliability top priorities.”

“We will continue to advance our commitment to building a brighter future for electric co-op members and their communities, while making affordability and reliability top priorities.”

STUDENTS: Apply Now for the 2022 Youth Legislative Assembly Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at local, state and national legislatures? Is “I’m Just a Bill” your favorite Schoolhouse Rock song? Then the Youth Legislative Assembly (YLA) is for you! YLA is a mock legislative session where high school students voice their opinions and vote on issues concerning local, state and national government.

“We typically have 200 to 215 students participating from schools around the state, although in the past many have represented urban or suburban areas. It’s a great opportunity for students in rural areas, as well,” said Program Coordinator Erica Gallion. “The YLA experience increases confidence and knowledge of current issues, and it creates connections that can lead to future opportunities for participants.”

“North Carolina knows YLA, and year after year, carolinacountry.com/extras Read a personal account of the YLA experience from Dustin Humphries, a former participant who served as speaker during the 2019 Youth Legislative Assembly.

Apply at ncleg.gov/YLA by February 1, 2022.

Rep. Tim Moore, speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives (right), presents Dustin Humphries with a speaker gavel at the 2019 YLA.

it invests in these students because of how well YLA prepares its participants to serve our region,” said 2019 YLA participant Dustin Humphries. “The Youth Legislative Assembly’s unparalleled exposure to our government’s most sacred chamber is an opportunity that simply cannot be passed up.”

For more information about ways to get involved or to support the Youth Legislative Assembly, contact Gallion at Erica.Gallion@ncleg.gov or at 919-301-1372.

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More Power

Eastern Co-ops Partner on Bird Park EV Charger During this year’s Drive Electric Week (September 25–October 3), Sylvan Heights Bird Park held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its first electric vehicle (EV) charging station — a single ChargePoint Level 2 CT 4000 commercial charging station, which has two ports and can fully charge most vehicles in less than four hours. The nonprofit bird park, located in Scotland Neck in Halifax County, is part of the NC Zoo Society and home to the world’s largest collection of waterfowl.

Funding for the charging station was provided through the North Carolina Volkswagen Settlement, with additional support provided by Halifax EMC, Edgecombe-Martin County EMC, Roanoke Electric Cooperative and Tideland EMC through North Carolina’s Electric

Cooperatives’ matching grant program. Lake Gaston Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Foundation also awarded Sylvan Heights an EV grant.

“Sylvan Heights reached out to us to ask for help in bridging the gap between the VW settlement rebate they received and the remaining cost,” said Halifax EMC Manager of Marketing and Economic Development Julia Allsbrook. “While the bird park isn’t served by an electric co-op, we felt it was important to support the project as we all continue to promote expansion of the EV charging network, and because the park is such an economic asset to Halifax County and surrounding counties — bringing over 55,000 visitors per year.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by park staff members and Scotland Neck town officials, along with representatives from Halifax EMC, Edgecombe-Martin County EMC and North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

Columbus County Mural Celebrates Bees, Butterflies The next time you’re passing through Whiteville in Columbus County, be sure to check out the new mural at the intersection of Madison and Frazier streets.

The Columbus County Beekeepers Association received a community grant from Brunswick Electric to commission the mural, painted by local artist Bess Hinson Taylor, as part of the Whiteville Butterfly Trail. Although largely depicting bees and flowers, the mural also features a butterfly as a fellow celebrated pollinator.

“We love investing in our communities and seeing projects like this come to life,” said Brunswick Electric Manager of Member Engagement and

Communications Brookes Versaggi. “This beautiful mural will be enjoyed by Whiteville residents, visitors and our employees who live and work in the area. It’s a homerun for everyone, and we’re proud that Brunswick Electric could play a part in making that happen.”

Artist Bess Hinson Taylor at a ribbon-cutting event for the mural

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More Power

Building a Brighter Future

Bring Energy Tech Home for the Holidays Electric cooperatives across North Carolina are investing in new technology to help provide reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost, while also pursuing responsible sustainability goals. But advanced energy tech isn’t just for the power grid outside your door — affordable solutions, connected to a home wireless network, can help use energy more efficiently. (They make great gifts, too.) Here are a few types of devices that are readily available: Amazon

ecobee

Smart thermostats

Smart speakers

Smart plugs

Wi-Fi enabled thermostats can be programmed to activate heating and cooling on a schedule, remotely, or take over the job themselves. They also provide “demand response” opportunities for electric utilities to reduce costs by trimming energy use. Prices start at $100.

These can play music, make calls, or even locate a misplaced smartphone, and entrylevel models can cost as little as $30. Their biggest potential lies in the ability to act as a hub for your other smart devices.

These devices plug into any outlet, connecting it to your network and making anything plugged into it “smart.” Control lamps (or Christmas lights) by voice via a smart speaker, or remotely via a smartphone app. Most cost around $20.

Popular brands: ecobee, Google (Nest), Honeywell

Popular brands: Amazon, Apple, Google

Popular brands: Cree, GE, Phillips, TP-Link Visit carolinacountry.com/energytech to learn more about evolving technology that is paving the way for a brighter future.

Co-op Leadership Camp Returns to the Woods in 2022

The 2022 Cooperative Leadership Camp will be held June 20–24 at Camp Monroe in Laurel Hill — the first time an in-person camp will have been hosted since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The camp is facilitated by the Cooperative Council of North Carolina (CCNC) and supported by its members, including North Carolina’s electric cooperatives.

“We have a new program planned for 2022, and we couldn’t be more excited to be back in person,” said CCNC Executive Director Emily Nail. “Sessions will include workshops about co-op farming; financial planning; the electric co-op lineworker experience; and the concepts of diversity, equity and inclusion in business.”

Applications for this summer’s Cooperative Leadership Camp are now being accepted from rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors across North Carolina.

All campers are sponsored to attend by cooperatives or funding through CCNC. Co-op leadership campers are also eligible for the $1,000 Jim Graham college scholarship, which they can apply Apply Now for during their senior year of CCNC.coop high school.

Deadline: April 30

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3,000-Year-Old Beauty Secret Revealed Turquoise — the original fashion icon — comes full circle for an amazing price.

7 carats of genuine turquoise

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he’s been around for thousands of years, but she’s never gone out of fashion. We’re talking turquoise, one of the world’s most ancient gems. Egyptian queens adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry more than 3,000 years ago. And the blue beauty is even more coveted now than she was a millennia ago.

Do you know someone who’s even more beautiful now than when you first met? Then the Timeless Turquoise Pendant is for them –– a stylish circle formed from seven total carats of natural turquoise and exquisite sterling silver metalwork. And the price? Let’s just say we made sure timeless was attainable for less than you’d think.

Time is running out for timeless turquoise. Just because turquoise is timeless, doesn’t mean supplies of it will last forever. Turquoise is only found a few places on Earth. Typically unearthed in arid climates like the American Southwest and Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, turquoise requires a delicate balance of minerals and water to achieve its gorgeous range of blues. But even when conditions are optimal for turquoise to form, finding stones of gem-worthy quality is a challenge. There are very few turquoise mines left, and then, less than 5% of turquoise mined worldwide is of jewelry condition, making it rarer to come by than even diamonds.

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COOKING UP

A Festive Table

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Holiday recipes

BY READER REQUEST

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In our September issue, we asked readers to provide feedback on Carolina Country recipes, as well as preferences in the kitchen.

One message came through loud and clear: “More recipes, please.”

Here’s a start — a special section of recipes sure to please a crowd this holiday season. In the survey, we also asked what type of holiday recipes you’d like to see in this issue. Main dishes is the winner (39%), followed by appetizers (32%), desserts (23%), other suggestions (5%) and drinks (1%). Carolina Country Contributing Recipes Editor Wendy Perry took your request and ran with it, creating three simple (though impressive) main dishes.

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Creamed Spinach Shrimp Scampi With lemon-chive cornbread dumplings

What could be as delicious as shrimp scampi and lemony creamed spinach? Combining the two and topping off with fluffy lemon-chive cornbread dumplings, that’s what! The tender dumplings are just the right touch to float atop the scampi to spoon into all that buttery creamy goodness. And the best part: You can have this impressive dish ready, start to finish, in only about 30 minutes!

Lemon-Chive Cornbread Dumplings 1 ½ 3 3

⅓ ½

cup buttermilk cornbread mix cup lemon poppyseed muffin mix tablespoons milk tablespoons sour cream Zest of 2 lemons (about 1 tablespoon) Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons) cup chopped fresh chives teaspoon black pepper

Combine mixes. Stir in remaining ingredients until blended (mixture will be thick).

Set aside while preparing the scampi.

Yield: About 1 dozen dumplings

Creamed Spinach Shrimp Scampi 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup (4–5 large) shallots, thinly sliced 4 cloves minced garlic 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled/deveined 2 packages frozen creamed spinach, thawed Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons) 2 teaspoons white pepper ½ cup melted butter Chopped chives for garnish Zest of 2 lemons for garnish Heat oil and butter over medium heat in a 12-inch skillet. When butter has melted and is sizzling, add the shallots and garlic.

Sauté until tender, 2–3 minutes.

Add shrimp and cook until they are just pink (not fully done), about 3 minutes.

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the creamed spinach, lemon juice and pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

Scatter heaping teaspoons of dumpling mix about the top of the simmering scampi. Drizzle with the melted butter.

Cover and cook about 10 minutes until dumplings are firm and puffy.

Garnish with chives and zest; serve.

*Note: If you can’t find pre-Frenched chops (where the rib bone is exposed and all meat is removed from the bone), simply buy bone-in loin chops. Cut the rib meat piece off end of bone (cook on the side for nibbling). Scrape any remaining meat from the bone and that’s it!

Maple and Apple Cider Brined Tomahawk Pork Chops With herbed butter

Want to impress guests with taste and presentation too? Offer them these fancy brined “Frenched” chops. Just a bit of planning ahead is needed to brine, but after that, a quick sear and you’re ready to gather round the table in under 30 minutes. What’s the perfect side for this dish? NC sweet potatoes, of course!

4 bone-in pork loin chops, 1½" thick, Frenched* Brine 3 cups spiced apple cider ¾ cup maple syrup ¼ cup kosher salt 3 bay leaves Several sprigs each fresh rosemary and thyme Several turns cracked black pepper Herbed Butter (can be prepared day ahead) 1 stick salted butter, softened 2 tablespoons each minced fresh rosemary and thyme 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Maple Drizzle ¾ cup maple syrup 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon dried sage

For the Brine, combine ingredients and warm until salt is dissolved. Add 2 cups of ice to quick cool.

Place chops in a container. Pour brine over chops; cover, and refrigerate 12 to 24 hours. Discard brine.

For the Herbed Butter, mash ingredients together with a fork at least one hour before serving.

For the Maple Drizzle, combine the maple syrup, cinnamon and dried sage.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

For chops, drain and pat dry. Coat with oil or butter and grill over hot fire to desired doneness (145 degrees by thermometer for moist pink medium chops, longer if desired). Oil generously while cooking for a nice char. Let stand 5 minutes before enjoying.

Top with a dollop of herbed butter.

Pass the Maple Drizzle.

Yield: 4 servings

Yield: 4–6 servings

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Open Faced Chicken Cordon Bleu Over savory French toast

Cordon Bleu is such a crowd pleaser but can be a bit intimidating for some. Make our sheet pan recipe in short order for something to be enjoyed by most everyone (the young ones, too). Nice for supper or a holiday brunch gathering!

Chicken Pan spray 12 slices Canadian Bacon 1½ pounds thin sliced chicken breasts Salt and pepper 1 tablespoon honey mustard

1 1 8 2

stick butter, softened cup Panko crumbs ounces sliced Swiss cheese packages Bearnaise sauce mix 2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray baking pan.

Overlap 2 slices of bacon into 6 portions. Place chicken over bacon; season with salt and pepper. Mix mustard into butter and spread over chicken. Press crumbs into butter. Bake about 20 minutes till brown (prepare French toast while chicken is cooking). Top with Swiss cheese. Bake about 5 more minutes till chicken is done and cheese melts.

For sauce, combine mix with milk; whisk while heating. Thin with more milk if needed.

French Toast 12 slices bacon 3 large eggs, beaten 1 cup half and half ²/₃ cup grated parmesan 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1½ teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup each chopped fresh chives and parsley 6 small croissants, cut horizontally Cook bacon till crisp in nonstick skillet. Drain and save drippings.

Combine eggs with remaining ingredients, except for croissants. Brush same skillet with drippings (over medium high heat). Moisten each croissant half in egg mixture for about 1 minute. Cook in hot skillet about 2 minutes per side until toasty.

Keep warm.

To serve, place chicken over a croissant. Top with Bearnaise sauce and crumbled bacon. Serve immediately.

Yield: 6 servings

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VisitNCFarmsToday.com 11/8/21 1:18 PM 10/28/21 12:52 PM

t a h t p o r C e Th

s p Po

corn p o ing P w o y r e l g l a n i V Yadkin local leader ck is a ed sna v o

l e b a ose le bie Mo in Ripp

By Deb d / The Yadk

o y Wo by Photos

Wend

The largest of 10 storage silos at Shallowford Farms, home of Yadkin Valley Popcorn, can hold 1 million pounds of popcorn kernels.

processing. Conventional corn intended for animal feed can be put in large dryers after harvesting and is dried to a moisture content of 25% to 30%, Sam explains. However, popcorn will pop in the hot dryers, so the ears are left on the stalks to dry in the field.

If all silos were full, it would come to 7 million pounds. But there’s no need to worry about an explosion on a hot summer day.

“Popcorn has to reach about 400 degrees inside the kernel to pop, so that’s not going to happen,” says Sam Vestal, company manager.

As one of the state’s few popcorn growers, capable of growing as much as 2,000 acres, the Yadkinville-based company’s farm-to-snack offerings include flavored popcorn as well as the raw kernels. The products are sold in several North Carolina and East Coast supermarkets.

“It’s popped and packaged right on the farm where it’s grown, Sam says. “Eating this, you’re eating your heritage.”

In the field, popcorn looks and grows just like conventional corn, but it’s an entirely different variety.

First of all, ears of popcorn are smaller, although they’re harvested with the same kinds of combines.

Then popcorn requires special

The moisture content is also different — 12% to 13% for popcorn.

Workers use a special machine to check the moisture level, because if the corn dries out too much, you’ll get nothing but duds when you start popping. (The moisture level is important because popcorn pops when, under heat, the moisture inside the kernel expands and puts pressure on the starchy surface until it explodes and turns the kernel inside

out, creating the fluffy treat that fuels movie watching.)

Popcorn became associated with movies during the Great Depression, according to food historians. It was an affordable treat, and popcorn carts proliferated in cities, many setting up in front of theaters to catch patrons. Theater owners saw the snack’s popularity and began selling popcorn themselves.

In recent years, popcorn has gained a reputation as a healthy snack, which has led to several national brands of bagged popcorn, plus theater-style flavors. Yadkin Valley Popcorn’s sales went up during the pandemic, possibly because people were watching movies at home but still wanted theater-style snacks.

There are many varieties of popcorn that pop into different sizes and shapes. Jonathan Mounce, operations manager, said that Yadkin Valley Farms uses a variety of the shape described as “butterfly” or “snowflake,” which pops up fluffy and takes seasonings well.

To make flavored popcorn, the company uses a large air popper which can pop 350 to 400 pounds of popcorn an hour. After popping, it’s tossed in soybean oil to add flavor and color, Jonathan says. Then flavor coatings are added. Yadkin Valley Farms’ most popular

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flavor is butter, but there’s also white cheddar and others.

For caramel corn, the popped corn is mixed with caramel and dried. The process is similar for a line of candy flavors that include blue raspberry, birthday cake and pina colada.

Kettle corn is popped in gas-fired kettles along with with oil, sugar and salt to provide the characteristic sweet-salty flavor.

Shallowford Farms has been operating for more than 30 years, although in the beginning it grew popcorn for other companies. When NC State University graduate Caswell Booe bought the business in 1998, he upgraded the equipment, began selling the popcorn under its own name and planning for the company’s future. After Booe’s death about two years ago, the company continued the plans, looking at more efficient equipment and working with a food scientist on different flavors.

New ideas just keep popping up.

In collaboration with Garner Foods, based in Winston-Salem, starting in January the company will offer popcorn in Texas Pete and Texas Pete Hot Cheddar flavors.

“You either get all in or get out quick in the popcorn business,” Sam says. “We’re planning on staying.”

Field Corn (left) vs. Popcorn

Debbie Moose (debbiemoose.com) has authored seven cookbooks and is a former food editor for The News & Observer in Raleigh.

carolinacountry.com/extras See a quick video tour of Yadkin Valley Popcorn (or visit shallowfordfarmspopcorn.com to schedule an in-person tour).

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Carolina People Greentop Gifts

Here Comes Clarence Claus Jackie and Shaun Rodgers want all children to feel represented, especially during the holidays

By Scott Gates

J

ackie Rodgers had a problem. It was 2015, and she had a new baby boy. Christmas is important to her (she’s the type that starts planning the family Christmas card in October), and she wanted everything to be perfect — right down to the wrapping paper.

“Once I had our son, I knew I wanted wrapping paper that had a brown Santa. But I started looking for it, and I couldn’t find it,” Jackie says. At the time she lived in Raleigh, and she reached out to friends in bigger cities who may have been able to track down more varied wrapping paper. But there were no brown Santas to be found. “Once I realized there was a void in the market and no one was making it, I said I would make it myself.”

“She definitely said that,” her husband, Shaun, remembers.

“And I definitely dismissed it, and said there’s no way you’re going to create your own wrapping paper.”

Jackie proved him wrong, and now the couple has Greentop Gifts to show for it. Their company makes wrapping paper and apparel featuring the jolly “Clarence Claus,” named for her late father. Family is important to the Rodgers, which also shows through in the company name itself: Jackie’s grandfather ran the Greentop restaurant in Hillsborough in the 1940s and ’50s, remembered as a place of fellowship and happy family gatherings.

Jackie had a very particular image in mind for Clarence Claus, and she interviewed several illustrators before finding a promising one based in Ghana.

“I really liked his style,” she says. “He sent me back his drawing, and I had no edits for the very first version — he brought to life exactly what I had in my head.”

Clarence Claus quickly resonated with families like the Rodgers who felt underrepresented during the Christmas season. The couple started shipping wrapping paper in 2016, spending long hours in their garage fulfilling orders after their son’s bedtime. And word got around. NBC News featured their product, and in 2017, Gayle King, editor-atlarge for “O, The Oprah Magazine,” praised the idea in her December column.

This is the fifth season for the company, now shipping wrapping paper and apparel through a fulfillment company (leaving their garage for the cars). Clarence Claus wrapping paper has been shipped to every state in the U.S., and as far as the United Kingdom and Japan. The Rodgers have also added to their assortment with the “Celebration Crew,” which features multicultural kids. And support for their ideas keep pouring in: This past year they were selected as a FedEx Small Business Grant winner, Google for Startups Black Founders Fund recipient, and Beyonce BeyGOOD Small Business Grant winner, to name a few.

There have been a lot of big changes for the Rodgers since they launched their company. They’ve moved to Atlanta, although they maintain NC ties with a home in Jones-Onslow EMC territory. Jackie left her corporate career in February 2020 and now works on the business full time. And with their family having grown by one (a little girl), their dedication to family and inclusiveness is only stronger.

“It’s important for children to see themselves in all things,” Jackie says. “Representation is important, especially for children. Children should know they can aspire to do and be all things. The images they see should reflect them from a doctor, fire fighter, a character in a children’s book — even Santa.”

Greentop Gifts

Scott Gates is editor of Carolina Country.

Bring Clarence Home Visit greentopgifts.com to shop an array of gift wraps, accessories and apparel featuring jolly ol’ Clarence Claus.

18 | December 2021

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11/9/21 2:10 PM

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BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Energizing student learning is one of the many ways North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are enriching the lives of members and supporting local communities, now and for generations to come. Congratulations to the hundreds of North Carolina teachers receiving Bright Ideas education grants from local electric co-ops this fall to fund exceptional projects!

NCBrightIdeas.com

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embership M

12 TWENTY TWENTY ONE

MATTERS

Keep the G rinch away f rom your savings

Holiday tips for saving money and energy 1. Turn off the lights when you leave the room. Don’t use more lights or lamps than you need.

2. Don’t leave any electronics, including televisions and video game systems, turned on after you’ve finished using them.

3. Instead of turning up the heat, put on a sweatshirt or sweater. At night, use an extra blanket or comforter to stay warm.

4. When going outside, make sure to shut the door behind you to keep heat in.

Keep windows down and locked. It’s also a good idea to close the refrigerator door as quickly as possible, instead of standing in front of an open fridge while deciding what you want.

5. Keep doors inside the house open to let heat move freely through the house.

Want more tips?

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THE

Perspective Nex t generation workf orce f or Blue Ridge Energy

F D

From Blue Ridge CEO Doug Johnson

As Blue Ridge Energy prepares for the future, we realize we have a critical role to play in building and maintaining an increasingly complex electric grid and meeting member expectations.

that we have been recognized the past several years as one of the top employers in North Carolina! This designation is based on workplace policies, business philosophy, operating systems and feedback from employees.

Crucial to that preparation is attracting and retaining an increasingly high-skilled and knowledgeable workforce to build upon the strong foundation created over the history of your cooperative.

At the heart of our succession plan is ensuring your cooperative continues serving your best interests as one of the top electric utilities in the nation for reliability, safety, customer service and value.

This challenge is real. Line technicians, engineers, information technology staff, system operators, energy specialists and more, as well as the leaders of these teams, have already begun the wave of retirements.

In fact, during the next five years, over 25 percent of the Blue Ridge team is eligible to retire. That represents decades of experience, knowledge and specialized expertise that will be leaving.

As members, we hope you feel our sense of community and purpose that exists because of a strong commitment to you. Our members deserve nothing less than our very best! Employees—both seasoned and new—tell us it’s a sense of doing something vitally important for those we serve that matters most. I’m excited about the new, talented and eager employees and leaders that are joining us, and I feel very confident your cooperative is, and will be, in good hands!

The good news is your cooperative is prepared! Several years ago we began implementing a succession plan to identify, attract and retain a highly skilled and talented next generation workforce. This plan includes training, internships, growth opportunities and employee and management development, as well as nurturing the culture of service that makes Blue Ridge Energy special. Our culture is so exceptional

Blue Ridge Energy wishes you and your family a happy holiday season and a joyous new year. We look forward to continuing our service to you in 2022 and beyond.

P

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Membership MAT TERS

11/8/21 4:04 PM

Ridge hnson

First Steps: Director elections

Members have the opportunity to vote for their Board of Directors each year. To keep you informed of election governance processes that take place throughout the year, your cooperative updates you in this newsletter. Two of the first steps in the director election process include appointing a Credentials and Election (C&E) Committee and a Nominating Committee. The Board appointed these committees for one-year terms at their October meeting.

Nominating Committee: This committee of nine cooperative members reviews and nominates qualified candidates to run for all open seats on the Board of Directors in the upcoming election.

Credentials & Election Committee: Made up of members from across the cooperative’s service area, this committee ensures director elections are conducted in compliance with Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation’s Bylaws. Responsibilities include selection of an independent election administration firm, review of petition candidate qualifications, validation of all proxies and ballots, and certification of election results.

Watauga district: Kelvin Gryder and Jimmy Friley

The Board of Directors appointed the following committee members Caldwell district: Patricia Hollar

The Board appointed the following committee members: Caldwell district: Jason Carpenter, Robert Marshall, and Ron Vance

Ashe district: Melanie Miller and Shawn Horton Alleghany district: Tommy Maines and Heather Andrews Members of both committees may not be employees, agents, officers, directors, close relatives or known candidates to become directors. The makeup of the committee reflects an equal number of members from each district, plus one representative from any district.

Watauga district: Heather Martin Ashe district: Marty Norris Alleghany district: Ron Farmer and Dwayne Bright

Candidates nominated by this committee as well as candidates running by petition will be posted in each Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation district office and on the website in April. Information about all candidates will be included in director election information mailed or emailed to all members in May. Information will also be provided in Carolina Country magazine sent to all members.

Please visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com for more info

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Scheer retires, Rountree and Blevins promoted Grey Scheer, director of community relations and 22-year employee of Blue Ridge Energy, is retiring in January. His passion for members has been evident in the strengthening of structures and processes of several key cooperative programs such as the Member Advisory Committees and Community Leaders Council, as well as developing and managing new programs like the Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation, Leadership Track, and “Heart of” free EKG programs for student athletes. Scheer has also overseen the cooperative’s Bright Ideas teacher grants program and scholarships for students, as well as electric safety education and the annual meeting. Grey’s demonstrated commitment to developing future leaders within our communities along with his dedication to member advocacy has made Blue Ridge a best in class cooperative. Scheer graduated from Appalachian State University with a BSBA in marketing and management and lives in Lenoir with his daughter, Ginny.

Announced as the new director of community relations is Tasha Rountree, who served as Ashe district manager for the past three years. In that role, she oversaw customer

service as well as district operations. Rountree and her team helped the cooperative earn one of the top spots in the country for satisfaction. She is a member of Watauga Opportunities Board, Ashe County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Business and Community Development Board, and Leadership Ashe Committee. She is a graduate of Leadership Ashe and the Watauga Leadership Challenge. Rountree graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in business administration in accounting. She resides in West Jefferson with her husband Josh, and son, Henry.

Selected as the new Ashe district manager is April Blevins, an Ashe County native, graduate of Beaver Creek High School and Appalachian State University with a degree in interior design and a minor in marketing.

April serves as the clerk for Bristol Baptist Church and is on the Business and Community Development Board. She is currently participating in the Leadership Ashe program through the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce. She lives in Lansing with her husband Billy and has three children: Alexis, Trent and Tyler, who are in college.

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

Membership MAT TERS

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DISTRICT OFFICES Caldwell Watauga Ashe Alleghany Wilkes PowerLine*

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

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OFFICE HOURS: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Monday - Friday Kiosks available

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

11/8/21 4:04 PM

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Energy Sense

Owens-Corning

Sleuthing for Home Energy Savings Utility bills provide clues to savings potential

By Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen

I

n any home, there are typically many opportunities to save energy. A host of products and services claim to provide maximum energy efficiency, but it can be challenging to know where to start. Fortunately, monthly bills can help identify areas for the most energy savings.

The months that require the most energy use are in the winter and summer, when temperatures are most extreme. Just total up your average energy use for the months when you use the most energy, then subtract the average amount you use during “shoulder months,” when you’re barely using your heating or cooling system (typically during fall and spring).

The most likely reason for the difference in energy use is heating and cooling your home. If someone says switching to a new heating or cooling system could save you 20%, they likely mean you can save 20% on heating or cooling costs, which are a portion of your overall energy costs.

Every home is different. For example, there’s a small percentage of homes that include uncommon energy uses like a well pump, swimming pool or a home business that require more energy than heating or cooling. But typically, heating and cooling your home are by far the largest energy uses.

Heating and cooling

Sealing air leaks is often the least expensive energy-saving measure that delivers the most bang for your buck. The second most cost-effective way to cut heating and cooling costs depends on your situation.

If you have an older propane or oil furnace, replacing it with an energy efficient heat pump might be your best investment. If you already have a relatively efficient furnace or air conditioning unit, insulating your attic could be the next most cost-effective measure, followed by insulating exterior walls or the crawl space or basement.

Loose-fill insulation is the most common and preferred method of insulating your attic floor. Notice the baffles near the attic perimeter that allow air to ventilate from the eaves into the attic space.

Replacing windows is a high-priority project for many homeowners, and new windows can certainly add value to your home. However, this can be a costly project, making it difficult to justify solely based on potential energy savings. If your windows are old and leaky, it could be worth the investment. Do your research upfront so you fully understand the costs of the project.

Water heating

After you’ve found ways to reduce your heating and cooling costs, where else should you look for energy savings? Your next largest energy use is likely water heating. A few low-cost measures like repairing leaky faucets and insulating the first 6 to 10 feet of hot water line could deliver significant savings.

Installing energy efficient showerheads can save water and reduce energy use. Check out Consumer Reports for reliable comparisons and reviews of energy efficient showerheads.

If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it’s likely time to consider how and when to replace it. You can purchase a traditional water heater that uses the same fuel you’re using now.

But there are several other options, including heat pump water heaters, tankless water heaters and even solar water heaters. Be sure to do some research before your water heater breaks so you know about your options.

Other opportunities

Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance

Appliances and lighting account for a smaller portion of your energy use. As you replace older appliances and lighting, look for options that include the Energy Star® sticker. You should also review energy use information found on the EnergyGuide label.

We hope this information will help you start to identify areas to save energy at home. Consider enlisting the help of an energy auditor who can provide an overall assessment of your home’s efficiency.

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.

A single ductless heat pump can serve up to four rooms through blowers installed in each room.

26 | December 2021

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11/19/21 4:36 PM

Join millions of older Americans who are rediscovering the joy of walking

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I tried canes, walkers and rollators . . . and I hated them. Shuffling along, hunched over, looking at the ground two feet in front of me – that didn’t seem like a fun way to get around. Then, one day, a friend introduced me to the Perfect Walker. Nothing’s going to stop me now!

The Perfect Walker is a revolutionary new mobility device that can change your life by changing the way you walk. It enables you to stand upright when you walk– with your spine straight and your eyes looking straight ahead. Your weight is supported by your upper arms and shoulders, some of the strongest parts of your body. Traditional walkers and rollators force you to put the pressure of your body weight on your hands and wrists. You push them in front of you, looking at the ground instead of where you are going. The Perfect Walker moves with you, with your body perfectly aligned and your feet free to walk in a • Stand-Assist Handles • Comfortable Seat normal fashion. Its easy-adjust height system allows • Adjustable Backrest • Folds Easily it to be the perfect fit/height for anyone from 4’9” to Optimized Center of Gravity • Easy-Brake Wheels • 6’2” and supports up to 300 pounds. The new Stand Assist™ Handles enable you to distribute your weight Plus, now you can choose between royal blue or rich bronze across your arms and shoulders, not your hands and wrists to help reduce back, neck, wrist pain and discomfort. It features comfortable arm pads, Old Way Better Way hand brakes, a fold-down seat and storage area with a backrest. It’s built with aircraft-grade aluminum to be sturdy yet lightweight, and its sleek design and oversized wheels make it perfect for tight spots in the house or walking in the yard .

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84531

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11/8/21 1:18 PM

Kitchen Flops Culinary catastrophes from our readers

Boy, those cooking shows sure do make it look easy, don’t they? We know the truth — things go wrong in the kitchen — and we asked readers to share some of their most epic fails. Here are some of our favorites, from baking bungles to aiming to impress guests (and falling short). Find more online at carolinacountry.com/kitchenflops.

Fruity Flop

Who knows? I dipped the fruit in the melted chocolate chips, and it turned into globs! My family enjoyed a great laugh over it and the dish turned out to be delicious anyway.

Lisa Brewer, Wilkesboro

Island Paradise?

I tried to create an Instagramtrending island cake. It was a complete FAIL. Gail Ekola, Fayetteville, a member of Lumbee River EMC

from orthy Island Cake An Instagram-w . ail Tr an di ry in In Sweet Lilly’s Bake

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s

Peculiar Pintos

For Sunday suppers my late husband, Bobby, and I often cooked pinto beans in the crockpot. One time though upon tasting, the beans had a very unusual taste. How can you mess up pintos? Upon further investigation, I found the culprit. The crockpot was sitting on the kitchen counter without the lid. In the overhead cabinet, an opened bottle of peppermint flavoring had overturned, run down onto the stove exhaust cover and dripped into the crockpot of pintos. I didn’t eat any, but Bobby did. First and last time I cooked Peppermint Pinto Beans!

Vicki Martin, Shelby, a member of Rutherford EMC

Yule Stumps

Reallocating holiday travel time in 2020, I determined to finally attempt a “Bûche de Noël” [Yule log] cake.

As a small child, my mom mastered these swirls of chocolate and cream.

So, I was sure that, between her tutelage and all I learned from the “Great British Baking Show,” I would succeed in a beautiful sponge cake. I scoured all the reputable webpages for a recipe to satisfy my memory and skills. Alas, despite following all directions, no lovely spiral, just chunks of springy chocolate cake and bowls of sweet smooth cream and rich frosting. So, “Stumps de Noël” were born.

Easy to share in personal ramekins, they became perfect for a pandemic holiday food swap. Though a little skeptical of the presentation, empty dishes returned from senior citizens and teens alike, confirming taste over looks, every time.

Amberly Dyer, Salvo, a member of Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative

Bunny Breakfast Fail

I wanted to make cute bunny pancakes like I saw on Pinterest. I had a vegan relative visiting, so I was confident I could make them vegan with the same effect. Not so. They were delicious but extremely flat. And the vegan marshmallow and chocolate syrup for the face made them look like demented zombie bunnies!

Racked Bundt

I forgot to allow room for my Chocolate Zucchini Bundt cake to rise.

Hardee Klitzman, Durham, a member of Halifax EMC

Bettina Vernon, Marvin, a member of Union Power Cooperative

Birthday Burn

My recipe that went wrong was a brand new, untried, peanut butter cookie recipe for a birthday gift for my son-in-law. Yikes!

Embarrassing, to say the least. I cut the bottoms off and we still ate them — but never, never again.

Betty Normandin, Carthage

Unsightly Treat

I really do not know what happened.

It’s not like I haven’t cooked a Bundt cake before. But it was delicious, though unsightly.

Cookie Parker, West Jefferson, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

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,

I Remember

Memories and photos from our readers

Dressed for Turkey Hunting My grandfather, A.D. Brandon, and his friends would put on their best clothes to go turkey hunting down in the Sandhills. They would raise a big tent to sleep and eat in.

When it got dark, they would go where the turkeys rooted and scare them all off. Then early the next morning, they called the turkeys up for the hunt.

Joseph Brandon, Yadkinville, a member of EnergyUnited

A Family Christmas Present I was born in the early 1950s in Edgecombe County near a very small town called Leggett. I was the youngest child of 12 (8 girls and 4 boys). My momma and daddy sharecropped on a farm. They raised chickens and hogs, and we always had plenty of food on the table. I was born in late November, and Christmas was right around the corner.

Momma and Daddy would always prefer to be paid just before Christmas for their farm work. Well, the year I was born, I was lucky to arrive in the hospital. When they brought me home, Momma gathered all the other children and told them they wouldn’t be getting any Christmas from Santa that year because they had to pay the hospital bill. Years later I was told that my older sister asked my parents, “Can’t you send her back to the hospital?” To this day, we laugh and joke about that.

Starstruck Daughter Below is a picture of my momma and daddy taken in the mid-1960s. To the left of Momma is my daddy, with a fellow band member on the right. They were born and raised in Swain County, North Carolina. They moved to Florida after marrying. Daddy started at Highway Southern College, where he graduated in carpentry, while Momma remained a housewife. They were able to get away together on Saturday nights and both were soon recognized for their musical talents. Momma sang and played guitar while Daddy played bass fiddle. They were soon hired to play gigs in juke joints playing country music, which gave them extra income at doing something they both loved.

Later, Momma was offered a contract in country music, but for reasons of her own, she declined. Everyone believed she was the next Loretta Lynn. They continued playing at birthday parties, neighborhood social events and family get-togethers.

I remember sitting on the floor staring up at them as they played, looking and sounding like real country music stars. I was so proud, so starstruck, in awe. Wonderful, happy memories that I cherish.

Patricia Rich, Star, a member of Randolph EMC

Patricia Whitley, Rocky Mount A member of Edgecombe-Martin County EMC

Send Us Your Memories We love sharing photos and memories dear to our readers. Submit your photo, plus roughly 200 words that describe it, online or by mail with a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want it returned (only one entry per household, per month). Include your name, mailing address, phone number or email address, and the name of your electric co-op. We retain reprint rights, and we’ll pay $50 for those we publish. Online: carolinacountry.com/contact U.S. Mail: I Remember, Carolina Country, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616 30 | December 2021

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nton with Helen Myers Be eth Myers, nn Ke , er th fa her in 1950

Christmas with Grandpa I grew up on a farm in Sampson County. Nine people lived in our house, including my Grandpa Crumpler. My Grandpa sat in a chair at the end of a cotton row as I picked cotton beside him in a 10-pound flour sack.

At Christmas, his children would bring him a lot of fruit. He would peel the oranges and share with us grandchildren. He put the peelings on the windowsill to dry.

After the peels dried, we would then eat the peelings. My Grandpa lived to be 92 years old.

Novella Hall, Autryville, a member of South River EMC

Pink Chicks and Fox Kits My daddy, Kenneth Myers, loved animals. He bought the horse in the photo when I was very young. He taught us children to love animals also. He raised pigs, chickens and a cow. When I was about 9 years old, he let me keep the little runt from a litter of pigs. I really loved that baby pig. He followed me everywhere, just like our dog. But, of course, when he grew big, Daddy took him to the stock market to sell. It broke my heart.

At Easter each year, Daddy got my siblings and I each a pink-, blue-, green- or purple-colored baby chick. They were so cute. As they grew, the color faded and they became white.

One day Daddy killed a red fox in the chicken house.

Afterwards he saw the fox had babies. He didn’t want those babies to starve, so we all looked in the woods behind our house until we found two baby foxes under an old sawmill. We raised them until they were grown and ready to be on their own.

I am very grateful for the way my parents raised me.

They and our Lord made me who I am today. Life was so much simpler and good back then.

Grandpa Crumpler lived to be 92 years old.

Helen Myers Benton, Lexington A member of EnergyUnited

Little Bo Peep Remembers Her Sheep The first grade class of Lilesville Elementary School presented their play, “Little Bo Peep,” in the school auditorium in May 1956. I played Little Bo Peep. The classes gathered to witness the comedy-drama and listen to the children say their lines and sing. These plays were held at many schools across Anson County. I wonder how many people will see this photo and remember their costume. Other than church functions, school activities were all many of us had to look forward to in those days.

Dorothy Steele, Lilesville A member of Pee Dee Electric

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NC Outdoors

Mike Zlotnicki

A Sharp Gift Idea

Time-tested, precision knife sharpening Story by Mike Zlotnicki

W

hen it comes to the gift for “the sportsman who has everything,” a controlled-angle knife sharpening system is hard to beat. Your dad and granddad may have used a whet stone back in the day, and I still have some floating around the house. These specialty knife sharpening systems are simply really good and easy to use.

The two main brands are GATCO (Great American Tool Company) and Lansky. They are nearly identical, and I’ve used the GATCO brand since the late Fred Bonner gave me one for Christmas in the mid ’90s.

The premise is that different types of knives have different angles to the bevel (sharp part of the blade), and these sharpening systems enable one to stay on the same angle and use various sharpening stones affixed to rods to put the edge on a knife.

For instance, pictured is a Buck Zipper fixed blade knife, a popular model for deer hunters. The directions recommend using the 25-degree angle hole in the clamp.

GATCO 5-Stone sharpening system

I bought an accessory clamp holder and attached it to a small plank of wood, which then clamps to my work surface. Starting with the course stone, you go up and down the blade, then flip and do the other side. Next I move to medium coarse, then fine, then extra fine until you can literally shave hair off of your arm (but don’t try that). For a typical folding or fixed blade hunting knife, it only takes about five minutes to go from dull to very sharp.

I’ll still carry a small portable sharpener if I’m going deer hunting, but these systems excel at rejuvenating an old or “abused” knife and making it useful again.

Any and all blades These sharpening systems can handle the full spectrum of blades, from utility to culinary.

Pocket and hunting knives are recommended for the 25-degree angle, but there are six angled holes in the clamp ranging from 11 degrees (razor blades and X-Acto knives) to 30 degrees (utility cutlery like carpet knives).

Sharpening serrated cutlery is also possible using a V-shaped stone. You use the 30-degree angle and sharpen each serration on the sharpened side of the blade.

Kitchen knives have a range of uses, and the system’s instructions offer an equal range of sharpening angles to get it just right — 19 degrees for fillet knives and 22 degrees for most kitchen knives. It’s pretty nice to pick up any knife in the kitchen and know that it’s sharper than the day you brought it home.

The kits come with a small bottle of honing oil. The basic systems have three stones. The deluxe systems have five stones and use diamond surfaces for abrasion. Prices run from around $50 to just over $100. Go to lansky.com for more information on their systems. Bear & Son bought the GATCO sharpening division in 2016, so go to bearandsoncutlery.com for information on the GATCO system.

These sharpening systems may seem “over the top,” but they work, and work well. You may find yourself seeking out knives to sharpen if you purchase one, or better yet, unwrap one from under the tree.

Mike Zlotnicki is associate editor at Wildlife in North Carolina magazine. He lives in Garner with his wife, three daughters and two German shorthaired pointers.

32 | December 2021

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Sara Brennan

Save Room for

Sonker

And don’t forget the milk dip

By Matt Lardie

Rockford General Store

If your first reaction is, “Well, what the heck is a sonker?” don’t worry, you aren’t alone. Sonker is a dessert that hails from western North Carolina, with a provenance centered around Surry County (home of Mount Airy, the setting for The Andy Griffith Show’s fictional town of Mayberry).

The closest thing to a sonker would be a cobbler, but that’s where the agreement ends, and even then there are some who would chafe at that description. One family’s sonker might be made with peaches and have a pie-like crust floating atop the filling, while just down the road another household might make their sonker from sweet potatoes or apples with a batter-like topping that bakes into the filling. Many sonkers are

served with a “milk dip,” a creamy, sweet sauce meant to be poured over the top of the dessert.

Sonker varies from hill to holler, from family to family, and the easiest way to learn more about sonker is to try some for yourself: Enter the Surry Sonker Trail, a journey to eight different locations across Surry County, all serving their own takes on this iconic dessert. You can try the sweet potato sonker at The Tilted Ladder in Pilot Mountain, served piping hot in a martini glass with milk dip alongside. Or venture up to Mount Airy for a stop at Miss Angel’s Heavenly Pies, where her ‘zonka (bring your own Long Island accent to match wits with Miss Angel) is made from fresh fruit grown on her own farm.

Sam Dean

Look, there on the table! Is it a pie? Is it a cobbler?

No, no it’s...sonker!

Anchored Bakery

Shelton Vineyards serves an upscale version of sonker at their vineyard restaurant, a perfect way to end a meal, especially when washed down with a glass of dessert wine. Rockford General Store offers their sonkers to travelers exploring this tiny, historic corner of Dobson; a recent version was a spiced peach sonker with fresh vanilla ice cream.

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Sara Brennan

Sara Brennan

Navigating the Sonker Trail Traverse Surry County to find the sonker you like most — these eight stops on the Sonker Trail (sonkertrail.org) are sure to please.

And don’t miss the annual Sonker Festival, more than 40 years strong and typically held in the fall.

Anchored Bakery 139 Moore Avenue, Mount Airy anchoredbakerymtairy.com 336-705-3449 Prudence McCabe Confections 192 N. Main Street, Suite 400, Mount Airy prudencemccabeconfections.com 336-648-8160 Miss Angel's Heavenly Pies 153 N. Main Street, Mount Airy missangelsheavenlypiesinc.com 336-786-1537 The Tilted Ladder 105-A West Main Street, Pilot Mountain tiltedladder.org 336-444-4194

Southern On Main 102 East Main Street, Elkin southernonmain.com 336-258-2144 Skull Camp Smokehouse & Brewery 2000 N. Bridge Street, Elkin skullcampbrewing.com 336-258-8124 Harvest Grill at Shelton Vineyards 230 Cabernet Lane, Dobson sheltonvineyards.com 336-366-3590

Perhaps it’s high time you took a (very delicious) ride on the Sonker Trail to discover one of North Carolina’s most unique desserts for yourself.

Matt Lardie is a Durham-based freelance food, wine and travel writer who has written for Eater, Our State Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Robb Report and more. His last meal would be pepperoni pizza, mashed potatoes with too much butter, a gin martini and a slice of Key Lime Pie.

Sara Brennan

Rockford General Store 5174 Rockford Road, Dobson rockfordgeneralstore.com 336-374-5317

Skull Camp Smokehouse and Brewery in Elkin has a rotating seasonal sonker (with ice cream!) to accompany their extensive menu of smoked meats, while a short distance away in the center of town, Southern on Main makes each of their blueberry or apple sonkers to order, guaranteeing a fresh-baked sonker experience every time.

Anchored Bakery and Prudence McCabe Confections, both in Mount Airy, round out the current roster of Surry Sonker Trail participants; Anchored Bakery’s individual-sized sonkers can be enjoyed in the bakery or taken home for later, and the sonkers at Prudence McCabe are based on owner and baker Sue Heckman’s grandmother’s family recipe.

Each version of sonker, whether served at a restaurant or pulled from a home oven, carries its own story and sense of place, for nowhere else in America can you plop yourself down at a table and ask, “What kind of sonker do you have today?” Try that in Tennessee or Texas and you’ll get funny looks, but ask about sonker in Surry County and they’ll know just what you mean.

Tilted Ladder

carolinacountry.com/extras How many stops along the Sonker Trail can your sweetbuds handle?! Set your course on our website. carolinacountry.com | 35

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Carolina Calendar

A Small Town Christmas Variety show, tree lighting Dec. 3–5, Banner Elk

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Variety show, tree lighting Dec. 3–5, Banner Elk 828-898-8395 bannerelk.com

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

Christmas Tree 5K One mile fun walk Dec. 4, West Jefferson 336-982-2232 christmastree5krun.com

Christmas with Elvis Matt Lewis with orchestra Dec. 17, Boone 828-865-3000 apptheatre.org

Carolina Christmas Show Broadway-style singing, dancing Dec. 17–19, Marion 855-222-2849 marlumor.com

Meadow Lights Big light display, train ride Through Dec. 31, Benson info@meadowlights.com meadowlights.com

Kersey Valley Christmas Christmas experience for all ages Various dates in December Archdale kerseyvalleychristmas.com

Country Christmas Train Carols, wagon rides Various dates in December Denton 336-859-2755 dentonfarmpark.com

Christmas at the Library

Adult Prom and Dinner

Carolers, carriage rides Nov. 29–Dec. 23, Charlotte 704-401-3200 billygrahamlibrary.org

Live music, prizes Dec. 4, Windsor 919-452-1981 Planevents4U@yahoo.com

Menorah Lighting

Christmas Parade

Celebration at the bridge December 1, Waxhaw bit.ly/fb-menorah21

Dec. 4, Mount Olive 919-658-3113 moachamber.com

Hanukkah 8K

Open House

Include 1k walk Dec. 5, Durham jewishforgood.org

Live holiday music, refreshments Dec. 5, Windsor 252-794-3140 hopeplantation.org

Sounder Classic Black Cinema Series Dec. 12, Charlotte ganttcenter.org

Christmas with The Embers Beach music Dec. 16, Mount Airy 336-786-7998 surryarts.org

COAST Festival of Lights Drive-through light show Various dates in December Dublin 910-866-5819 lumilvineyard.com

Bettman and Halpin Americana, folk, bluegrass Dec. 9, Oriental 252-617-2125 pamlicomusic.org

Winterfest Flotilla Evening lights Dec. 11, Southport 910-457-7927 cityofsouthport.com

Christmas Parade Dec. 10, Roseboro 910-525-4121 roseboronc.com

D

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.

Hanukkah 8K Dec. 5, Durham

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

Sa

36 | December 2021

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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

A

M m b a

Wilted Asian Wedge Salad With ginger and carrot dressing

Here’s betting you’ve never seen an Asian wedge salad (we haven’t either). But this adaptation of the traditional wedge makes a fitting accompaniment to this month’s steak dish. Prepare it ahead of time so you’ll have more time to spend with guests!

1 large head iceberg lettuce Oil for pan 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped ½ cup chopped yellow onion 3 tablespoons finely chopped peeled ginger ½ cup oil (vegetable or peanut) ¼ cup rice wine vinegar 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari or soy sauce 1 tablespoon sugar 5 teaspoons ketchup Zest of 1 small lemon ¼ teaspoon salt Optional toppings for salad: sliced radishes, cucumbers, celery and red onion; snow peas (blanched and chopped); toasted sesame seeds; lightly sautéed baby corn and diced water chestnuts For the salad, preheat skillet to medium-high.

Cut the lettuce into six wedges, removing core pieces. Lightly oil and sear cut sides of lettuce until slightly charred, about 1 minute per side. Place on a serving platter.

For the dressing, put all ingredients (celery through salt) into a blender and process until smooth. If needed, add 1 tablespoon of water at the time to thin. (Dressing should not be runny.)

Refrigerate up to a week.

To serve, scatter toppings around lettuce and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Add dressing.

Yield: 6 servings

C p G

Unless otherwise noted, recipes on these pages are from Wendy Perry, a culinary adventurist and blogger, who chats about goodness around NC on her blog at WendysHomeEconomics.com.

t c S

Steak with Mongolian Beef Gravy

A favorite at many Asian restaurants, we switched up Mongolian Beef with a little bit of “Southern” by making the sauce into … gravy! Use your favorite steak — filet, sirloin, or any cut suitable for grilling or broiling. Our preference is nicely marbled ribeyes. Serve whole or in bite-sized pieces with chopsticks for fun. Spoon over rice with a bit of fresh cilantro.

4 beef steaks of choice 3 cups low-sodium beef broth, divided 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2–3 tablespoons cooking oil 2 tablespoons minced garlic or garlic paste 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger

½ cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce ¼ cup dark brown sugar 3 bunches green onions, trimmed and sliced diagonally in 1½-inch pieces 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted 4 cups cooked jasmine rice ½ cup cilantro, chopped

Broil, grill or sear steaks on stovetop to desired doneness.

For the gravy, whisk ½ cup of broth with cornstarch to make a slurry. Set aside.

Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook about 30 seconds to season the oil. Stir to keep from burning.

Add remaining broth and tamari or soy sauce. Whisk in sugar until dissolved. Bring to a slow boil. Cut back to medium low and simmer 3–4 minutes.

As the mixture thickens, add slurry and whisk. Let cook several minutes to thicken into gravy. Stir in onions the last 1–2 minutes until they “wilt.”

Combine rice and cilantro.

Serve steak over rice and spoon on gravy. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Garnish with a few chopped green onions if desired.

Yield: 4 servings

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Carolina Kitchen

Ambrosia Shortcakes

Many of us will recognize this southern Christmas dish. Our grandmothers made it and their mamas did too, served in a pretty glass bowl. We turned this fruity favorite into a fun little dessert to enjoy anytime. Can be made a day ahead.

1 small ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into small pieces Zest of an orange 3 oranges (we used naval and blood oranges) 3 clementines 1 jar (10 ounces) sliced maraschino cherries, drained 1 cup white seedless grapes, sliced 1 bag (5 ounces) glazed pecans, chopped

From Your Kitchen

1 bag (7 ounces) unsweetened coconut, divided 2 pomegranates 1 star fruit (carambola), optional 2 packages (8 count) original crescent rolls 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar 1 pint whipping cream, whipped Reserved coconut and pomegranate arils

Combine pineapple, zest, oranges, clementines, cherries, grapes, pecans, most of the coconut and arils from one pomegranate.

Garnish with sliced star fruit. This is the ambrosia.

For the shortcakes, preheat oven per instructions. Unroll and tear each roll into 2 pieces. Place on baking pan and dust with cinnamon sugar. Bake about 6–7 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Store in airtight container for up to a week.

To serve, place one piece of shortcake on a plate. Spoon on ambrosia. Top with a second piece. Add a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with rest of coconut and pomegranate arils.

Yield: Makes 16 shortcakes

Nantucket Cranberry Pie

No rolling, no whipping, no peeling — this is our kind of pie — quick, simple and praiseworthy! While not overly sweet thanks to the tart berries, this pie is reminiscent of a French clafoutis: a dessert made with fresh fruit and covered with a thick batter.

2 cups fresh cranberries, chopped ½ cup walnuts, chopped ½ cup brown sugar 2 eggs ¾ butter, melted and cooled

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

1 cup sugar 1 cup flour ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon almond extract Whipped topping or ice cream, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 10-inch pie pan.

Chop cranberries and walnuts. Mix with brown sugar and place mixture in the buttered pie pan.

In a separate bowl, combine eggs, butter, sugar, flour, salt and almond extract. Stir until batter is smooth and spoon it over the cranberry/walnut mixture.

Bake for 40 minutes or until tester comes out clean. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream when cooled.

Recipe courtesy of Leslie Mahan of Wake Forest

Send Us Your Recipes

Fruit Cake Cookies This year, we’ve been taking a look back at some old favorites from our recipe archive. For December, check out “Fruit Cake Cookies” from 1970. 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 December 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 January issue, will receive $25.

November

November winner

The November “Where Is This” photo by South River EMC member Dale Jarvis features the iconic red barn at Rocky Creek Farm. Seems to be a few Rocky Creek Farms across the state, but this one is located on NC Hwy 109 South near Mount Gilead, and close to Troy, in the small community of Robedo. West Montgomery County Middle School sets right next door. Brittany Hutchison reports that she and her family have leased the barn for more than four years and own the horses that live there. The property is more than 100 years old.

She adds, “Every year we decorate it with Christmas lights and decorations, so make sure you drive by this December.” Reader Victoria Higdon says that the farm is also home “to an awesome donkey!” The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Mary Metcalf of Forest City, a Rutherford 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.

Daniel Wall Fine Art

carolinaartist

E a l F c W a a

First Snow Impression

By Daniel Wall Daniel Wall works in a style of his own creation: intense impressionism, as he calls it, although others have deemed it “extreme impressionism.” He’s been working in the style for more than 30 years, first developing it in college by studying masters like Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet. “Monet used a small brush for texture,” he says. “Instead of a brush, I use a palette knife.” As a result, the full-time painter’s oil paintings are full of heavy texture and bold strokes of color. Daniel was born in China, has studied art in Italy, and much of his work is inspired by locations around the world he’s visited, although a move to Raleigh in 2006 provided a new source of inspiration.

“Our state is beautiful, from east to west,” he says.

S s S c y h

A a

1

v

Learn more about Daniel at parkwest-wall.com or facebook.com/DanielWallArts.

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11/8/21 1:18 PM

A sleigh full of savings!

Give your home the gift of savings by managing energy use. Control costs and multiply your holiday greenery with these easy tips:

ENJOY COZY SAVINGS

DECK THE HALLS

Set the thermostat to 68° or lower. Turn it down even more if you have a houseful of guests. (They’ll generate lots of warmth!)

Use energy-efficient LEDs for holiday and home lighting. Set holiday lights on a timed system.

KEEP OLD MAN WINTER OUT Attach exterior door sweeps and add weatherstripping around doors and windows.

SEASON’S EATINGS

BE A LITTLE GRINCHY Set your water heater temperature to 120°. Take short showers and use the cold water cycle for full loads of laundry.

Enjoy even more SAVINGS by making bigger home efficiency improvements. With the Energy SAVER Loan, you can upgrade your heating/cooling system, install energy-efficient appliances and more! Get the details and apply at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ESLP.

Bake more than one item at a time. Cover items and use the microwave for faster cooking.

Bring home MORE savings (no reindeer needed) by visiting BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Save.

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Keep scammers from stealing YOUR green Be on the lookout!

Your cooperative will never call demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnection of your service.

But scammers will. They can even “spoof” phone numbers to make the call look legitimate.

Be smarter than those mean ones: • If suspicious, check your account status online anytime. You can easily create an online account at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

Or, call us at 1-800-451-5474.

• Don’t be tricked into giving out your personal or financial info.

Say “NO” if asked to purchase a debit or gift card to make a utility payment.

• HANG UP if in doubt. Don’t fall for scammers’ threats or promises.

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