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February 2022

Lifting up neighbors in need Operation

PERIODICAL

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Join other Blue Ridge members to help lift up your neighbors and community by donating your capital credits to Operation Round Up®. Your support helps families when they need it the most.

1/10/22 11:47 AM

Lifting up neighbors in need When life gets tough, Operation Round Up® is there to lift up our members. Last year, more than 1,000 Blue Ridge members received much-needed assistance.

The program is funded through the generosity of Blue Ridge Energy members who round up their monthly bill and by our subsidiaries. Many members also donate all, or a portion, of their capital credits.

Thanks to these donations, we’ve all joined together to help neighbors in need for over 30 years with energy bill crisis assistance and more recently, grants to local nonprofits in our communities that are also helping members. This is making a real difference in our communities!

Please help. Share what you can to lift up other members who need a helping hand. Every penny you give supports your neighbors.

Learn more and sign up today at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Share.

Operation

How can I lift up my neighbors?

You can agree to have your monthly bill rounded up for an average of just 50 cents per month through Operation Round Up. You can give even more through Operation Round Up Plus.

You may also donate your upcoming capital credits return.

Give an extra lift: Money will be coming to members in May, pending Board approval. This money back, known as capital credits, is a benefit of being served by this notfor-profit electric cooperative. Last year, the return was over $5 million.

If you’d like to help your neighbors in need, please consider donating all, or a portion of, your capital credits.

Donating is easy: 1. Return the card inserted in this issue.

2. Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Share.

3. Text ROUNDUP to 70216.

Together, let’s lift up our neighbors in need!

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February 2022

The magazine of

The Road to

Recovery page 10

Published by

Electric co-ops test grid security page 6

Find energy savings on a budget page 20

PERIODICAL

Brunswick Electric discusses its Beat the Peak program—pages 15–18 February covers.indd 4

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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.

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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

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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:

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 54, No. 2

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Favorites 2 From Our Readers 4 Viewpoints 6 More Power

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20 Energy Sense 26 NC Outdoors 28 Marketplace 30 Carolina Kitchen 32 Where is This?

32 Carolina Creators

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The Road to Recovery

Communities are working together to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic.

There’s No Taste Like Home Don Simmons’ soul food is nationally recognized.

Oldest Operating USO Delivers Jacksonville USO has been ‘always by their side’ for nearly 80 years.

On the Cover Karen Wicker, director of Drug Free Moore County, is finding new ways to help community members struggling with substance use disorder. Learn more about the opioid epidemic in North Carolina on page 10. Photo by Mollie Tobias Photography.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Vacations Gone Wrong Have you ever been on a trip that didn’t quite go as planned? Share your story with us for a chance to be included in our April issue and receive $50. Learn more on page 21.

carolinacountry.com | 1

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THIS MONTH:

Healthy Communities Healthcare has been especially topof-mind over the past two years, as the pandemic has presented one challenge after another. But even when we’re not facing a new virus, rural communities have their share of healthcare challenges. In this issue, we discuss a few ways folks are working together to support healthier communities.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 54, No. 2

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 Good Apples I came across your article on Tom Brown and his heirloom apples (“On the Hunt for Old Timey Apples,” August 2016, page 18).

Does anyone have the heirloom trees for sale? My Grandaddy had some old apple trees and they never took the blight, even though there were cedar trees all around. But the ones you get now will blight and die if there is a cedar or arborvitae anywhere. I’m 78 years old and may never see them produce, but I’d like to have some for someone else.

Marjorie Canipe, Marion Editor’s note: We recently spoke with Tom, and he still has apple trees available for sale.

Contact him at heritageapples@gmail.com or visit applesearch.org for more information.

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

By Kaylee Sweet, Hamlet, Pee Dee Electric

Welcome Scenes So look forward to this issue every year. Miss my REMC as we have moved to the coast from Asheboro.

Each photo [in “Carolina Country Scenes,” January 2022, page 10] must be the best, then I see the next one!

Thanks for sharing such beauty and joy from my home state!

Ann Cameron, past member of Randolph EMC, via carolinacountry.com

Common Good Strolling on social media I often become overwhelmed by the intolerance that we North Carolinians have for each other’s differences. The ease at which we consider differing opinions as dogma attaching everything we have proclaimed ourselves to be.

Your Carolina Country Scenes painted quite the opposite picture — we are as much alike as we are different. We want the best for our families and we want a healthy state to cultivate joy and growth. Thanks for helping me slow down to see and feel this again.

AJ Mageo, Wake Forest, a member of Wake Electric

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.

2 | February 2022

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Viewpoints

Addressing the Need for Rural Healthcare

By Don Gatton

Electric cooperatives power one in eight Americans—that’s 42 million people, and we don’t take that responsibility lightly. While our goal always is to provide you with safe, reliable power at an affordable price, we are also committed to supporting our local communities. Concern for Community is not just a guiding cooperative principle to display on the wall; it’s at the heart of everything we do.

Rural communities are the foundation of electric cooperatives, but the unfortunate reality is that rural healthcare faces challenges not seen in urban areas. We have fewer physicians and limited access to specialized care. As a result, rural Americans are at greater risk of dying from potentially preventable diseases like heart disease and cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and NC’s electric cooperatives Prevention. That needs to have facilitated more than change. We want our rural citizens to have access to the same quality of care found in more densely populated areas.

Electric cooperatives from all over North Carolina are helping in USDA financing to to bridge that gap by first responders and providing community healthcare facilities that donations, as well as serve rural communities federal grants and zero-interest loans to organizations in need. For example, with assistance from Four County EMC’s memberfunded Operation Round-Up TRUST program, a center specializing in treating addiction problems is able to make critical repairs to its residential facilities. Hospice care centers and counseling facilities can continue to provide services to those in need, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. With collaboration between Operation Round-Up and volunteer

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groups, wheelchair-accessible ramps have been built, allowing members with disabilities to maintain independent lives.

Electric co-ops are supporting even larger healthcare and first responder needs through a U.S. Department of Agriculture resource called the Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant (REDLG) program. The REDLG program provides rural utilities with grants and zero-interest loans to directly fund local projects that create and retain employment in the communities they serve. Since 2015, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have facilitated more than $35 million in USDA financing to first responders and healthcare facilities that serve rural communities.

Bladen Healthcare, LLC, through a zerointerest REDLG loan provided by Four County EMC, expanded an outpatient medical center, enabling the facility to serve more patients and provide specialized services not offered before.

Through a similar zero-interest loan, Pender EMS & Fire was able to purchase much-needed ambulances, 911 vehicles and other equipment necessary to serve the community.

Through these endeavors and others such as scholarships, teacher grants and youth programs, your electric cooperative is committed to improving the quality of life for co-op members.

We are purpose-driven and community-focused yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Don Gatton is CEO for Burgaw-based Four County EMC.

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CEC CR 3

POWERING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are leading the way to a brighter future for our 2.5 million members and local communities.

Sustainable, Affordable Energy

Pursuing a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 using new and existing resources to ensure electricity continues to be delivered at the lowest possible cost.

Reliability & Innovation

Leveraging new technologies and innovation to deliver reliable electricity across resilient, co-op operated electric grids.

Local Community Support

Enriching the lives of our local members through continued education initiatives, economic development and communityfocused activities.

NCElectricCooperatives.com/Brighter

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1/5/22 4:04 PM 1/7/22 12:29 PM

More Power

FEBRUARY

Quick Hits

Gridiron Grub Settle in for this year’s Super Bowl on February 13 with some next-level snacks; search for winning appetizers on carolinacountry.com/recipes.

Winter-Ready Pets If you have pets that spend time outside, adjust food servings to provide extra calories, and check to make sure water bowls don’t freeze.

Happy Feet Stash an extra pair of socks in your car’s glove box. If your socks get wet from shoveling snow or stepping in water, you have a dry pair.

Toasty and Safe Using a woodburning fireplace this winter?

Clean out ashes from previous fires, and be certain the damper or flue is open before starting a fire.

NC Co-ops Participate in National Grid Security Simulation North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives joined several of the state’s distribution cooperatives and more than 700 planners from across the nation in participating in this year’s bi-annual GridEx VI event, a national virtual simulation to support grid security and safety.

GridEx is the largest grid security exercise in North America and is held every two years by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center. It brings together industry and government leaders to simulate cyber and physical attacks on the power grid.

The November 16–17 event provided co-op staff across the state a valuable opportunity to explore response and recovery scenarios involving simulated attacks on grid infrastructure, and to exercise cooperative crisis plans.

“GridEx is an important opportunity for our leadership and staff to practice and refine our response to crisis situations that affect our core grid infrastructure,” said Scott Brame, manager of compliance and jointly owned resources, and GridEx lead planner for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “Our participation in this simulation is a part of our deep commitment to grid security and safety, both physical and digital, and showcases our cooperative commitment to readiness.”

This year’s GridEx brought together 280 industry and government organizations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Electric utilities, state and federal agencies, critical infrastructure cross-sector partners and supply chain stakeholders worked through response scenarios to challenge assumptions, collaborate and enhance preparedness for current and evolving threats to the grid.

The event will return in 2023 with continued participation from North Carolina’s electric co-ops.

Celebrated Finest Some of the winners of the 2021 Carolina’s Finest awards, featured in our November 2021 issue, are served by electric cooperatives. Two such winners were the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (Finest NC Landmark) and Emerald Isle (Finest Getaway).

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative EVP and General Manager Susan Flythe with Cape Hatteras National Seashore Superintendent Dave Hallac

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative Communications Specialist Melissa Glenn with Emerald Isle Town Manager Matt Zapp

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More Power

Electric Cooperative Lineworkers Gain Knowledge and Skills at

Associate Degree Rutherford EMC Matthew Harshman

Nash Community College

Spring 2021 Advanced Certificate Recipients

In 2021, 14 electric cooperative linemen completed advanced education work in the Nash Community College’s Electric Lineman Technology program. The line workers earned curriculum certificates for completing college-level credits. Teamwork and consistent training are also benefits for these students as they train with students from their sister cooperatives during each week’s class.

The program includes courses with both classroom content and practical hands-on objectives. The specially designed training field built by the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives creates a training environment that allows individuals to increase skills for application when they return to their individual cooperatives. They learn skills such as overhead line construction, underground line construction and the National Electrical Safety Code. Beyond classes in line work and energy management, additional courses can be taken through the Community College System toward an associate degree such as writing and math to critical thinking, computers and communication.

Since the programs began in 1998, 23 co-op linemen have graduated with an associate degree. The community college program is supported entirely by electric cooperatives, but is also attended by linemen from Duke Energy and municipal electric systems.

In 2021, 396 co-op employees attended the NC Electric Cooperatives’ Job Training & Safety Technical Training Schools at Nash Community College, and more than 500 have registered to attend in 2022.

Pee Dee Electric Jesse Puckett

(17 Course-Hour Credits)

Surry-Yadkin EMC Nick Newman

Summer 2021 Advanced Certificate Recipients (17 Course-Hour Credits)

Edgecombe-Martin County EMC Alton Lewis

Halifax EMC Cody Pleasant Rutherford EMC Matthew Harshman

Fall 2021 Advanced Certificate Recipients (17 Course-Hour Credits)

Four County EMC Lee Bain Halifax EMC Branden Edwards Lumbee River EMC Joshua Oxendine Roanoke Electric Cooperative Robbie Stallings

South River EMC Nathaniel Lucas Daniel Purvis Tideland EMC Joshua Dunbar Robert Shively Tri-County EMC James Cozine

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More Power

Journey To Save A Life A casual conversation between co-workers led to a lifesaving surgery

By Catherine O’Dell

Catherine and Susan after surgery

O

n July 13, 2021, I had the honor to be a living kidney donor for Susan Green. Susan is the wife of a South River EMC co-worker, Dana Green. One day, Dana mentioned that his wife has a rare genetic kidney disease called Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, and that she would soon need dialysis and a transplant. This kind of conversation often leaves you feeling helpless, but I knew instantly that I could help. The exchange stayed in my mind and on my heart. A few days later, I asked about Susan’s blood type: A-positive, same as mine.

I couldn’t stop thinking about Susan.

I did some research and found that nearly 750,000 Americans are battling end-stage renal disease, according to Kidney.org, and that more than 100,000 people in the United States are waiting for a kidney transplant.

Tragically, 12 people die daily waiting for a life-saving kidney. The good news is that about 22,300 get a kidney and a new lease on life. There are approximately 6,500 transplants from living donors annually, although the majority of transplanted kidneys are from deceased donors. Organs from living donors provide a greater life span for the recipient: A kidney from a living

donor lasts 12 to 20 years, while a kidney transplanted from a deceased donor lasts eight to 12 years.

These startling statistics helped me to become more focused and inspired to help. I spoke to a friend who had donated a kidney, as well as one who had received a lifesaving kidney.

Both served to motivate me and were instrumental in my decision. I have been blessed with good health, and I knew that it was time to help someone else. I believe I was placed in the right place at the right time.

Once I told Dana that I wanted to be considered as a donor, she called the UNC Hospitals Jason Ray Transplant Clinic to get the ball rolling immediately.

“When Dana told me someone wanted to give me a kidney, I was so grateful, and I felt like my feet would never touch the ground,” Susan said.

The first step was a blood sample to ensure our blood type and subtypes match. We matched.

I spent two days at UNC Hospitals

undergoing a series of scans and tests to ensure my kidneys were healthy and functioning properly, and to confirm that I was healthy enough to undergo surgery.

I stayed in touch with Susan every step of the way.

Once all results were returned, we learned everything looked good — except I had to lose some weight before being cleared for surgery.

I started walking and dieting. It is amazing how dedicated you become when someone else’s life depends on your success. In the meantime, Susan began dialysis, a step she was hoping to avoid, but ultimately made her healthier for the surgery.

The weight and I had parted ways, and it was time for the surgery. We checked into the hospital early one morning, and by midday both of our lives were changed and we are forever bound to one another.

I spent two days in the hospital and returned to work two weeks later.

The doctors, nurses and staff at the Jason Ray Transplant Clinic are passionate about the care they provide, so much that I trusted them with my life. My life can go on without much difference, but Susan’s life is changed forever. It is this point where Susan’s story begins.

“I have been given a second chance for life,” Susan said. “I would encourage those on the transplant list to stay strong, and don’t give up! Spread the word that you need a kidney, because there are amazing people who might want to donate.”

Catherine O’Dell, CCC, is vice president of Member Services & Public Relations for Dunn-based South River EMC.

How you can help Saving a life can be as simple as donating blood, registering to become an organ and tissue donor upon your death, or by being a living donor of bone marrow, part of your liver or one kidney. Visit donatelife.net for complete information on donation options.

8 | February 2022

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I p H

I d h C i a w s b o s d o Karen Wicker (left) is the executive director of the recovery center.

NC-certified Peer Support Specialists Stephanie Heck (center) and Amy Locklear are in recovery, giving them a unique perspective to help clients.

The Road to

Recovery Communities are working together to turn the tide on the opioid epidemic

By Gordon Byrd

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In an archipelago of outpatient doctors’ offices that cordons the hospital, Acadia Healthcare’s Comprehensive Treatment Center is frequented by professionals, stayat-home parents, insurance agents, wounded veterans — no one has the same story, but all shared the same burden as they stood together in line one early December morning. All struggled with substance use disorders, a part of the nation’s ongoing opioid epidemic.

From 2000 to 2020, more than 28,000 North Carolinians lost their lives to drug overdose, according to the NC Department of Health and Human Services, and annual suspected overdose deaths continue to climb (see chart). But communities are banding together to help those in need, providing several potential paths to recovery.

From recovery to support

Louis Leake, clinic director at the Comprehensive Treatment Center — the largest opioid addiction treatment facility in the state — is a U.S. Army combat veteran, a pastor,

and a sought-after speaker on the opioid crisis that has been gripping America’s society for over three decades. His office is small, tucked in the back of the building, but it gives him the opportunity to see each client pass as they exit. He knows many and has counseled more than a handful of them. No one demographic describes them. No archetypal story.

“We have three generations of families who attend our clinic,” he says, emphasizing that addiction to opioids is not limited to the young, or the poor, or the destitute.

Substance abuse is not limited to syringes or illicit drugs, either.

“Prescription pain medications, opium, heroin and fentanyl are all opioids and affect the brain in essentially the same way,” writes Barbara AndrakaChristou, author of “The Opioid Fix.” Louis was a paratrooper who logged more than 18 years of service and countless parachute jumps. Then, a parachuting accident left him paralyzed, with rods and screws holding his back and legs together. The pain medicine he was prescribed worked, though a creeping dependence was almost imperceptible.

Suspected Overdose Deaths* 2018–2021 +26% YTD (Jan–Nov)

3,132 2,554

2,688

Full year

+15%

+5%

2,351

2,471

2,844

3,595

2018

2019

2020

2021

*Estimate of statewide medical examiner system overdose deaths; the majority become confirmed as poisoning deaths. Percent change represents year-to-date (YTD) suspected overdose deaths compared to YTD total of previous year, based on available data at time of publication.

Source: NC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner

Mollie Tobias

It was bitter cold, and a misty rain dogged the line of people outside a nondescript building near Cape Fear Hospital in Fayetteville.

“There are different paths to substance use disorder, and there are different paths to recovery, too.”

“My pastor asked me to help the young men who were living in a halfway house our church ministered to,” Louis says in explaining his first step to realizing his addiction. “I heard these guys’ stories, and I thought: that sounds far too similar to my own story.”

Louis’ path to recovery was spiritual — as he puts it, he went on a spiritual retreat and came back different. He researched opioid addiction and began taking classes in a counseling program offered by the local community college. In recovery, he began counseling others.

Kennard Dubose, assistant professor in the Department of Social Work at UNC Pembroke, traces the history of addiction counseling from its earliest beginnings in Alcoholics Anonymous.

“In the past, people in recovery were the counselors for others entering recovery,” he explains. The profession of substance abuse counseling has matured since then. Now certification programs are plentiful across the states. carolinacountry.com | 11

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Treatment centers have also proliferated. At first, abstinence-based treatments centers were the only centers available. Now, medicated assistant treatment centers are available in nearly every county of North Carolina.

Abstinence-based treatment programs follow a model that is similar to Alcoholics Anonymous’ 12-step program. The people in recovery stop taking the drugs, and work through withdrawal with counseling and support from peers.

Medicated assistance treatments also involve counseling and peer-support, but these treatment programs curb the symptoms of withdrawal by reducing their severity.

Both treatments work, but patients need to get to the treatment first. More local resources, as well as work to remove the stigma of substance use disorders, are making a difference.

Mobilizing community

Drug Free Moore County (DFMC), which has received funding support from Central Electric, the electric cooperative based in Sanford, is a nonprofit coalition with the mission of providing educational resources, treatment information and addiction recovery support. It was organized in 1989, but with the onset of the opioid crisis has ramped up its efforts from prevention programs for school students to providing recovery support to families who are affected by substance use disorder.

DFMC Director Karen Wicker recently opened a community recovery center called Moore ReCreations in Carthage to help provide a variety of support and resources to individuals and families. The center’s goal is to help individuals “recreate” themselves during their recovery.

Moore ReCreations provides peer support services, a safe syringe program, and recovery support groups in person and via Zoom through the Moore County Detention Center. Future plans include a family support group, a reentry support group for inmates, recovery yoga, a community garden, sewing classes and other opportunities for growth and healing. DFMC is also working to provide a medically assisted treatment (MAT) program at the center through a contract with a locally established MAT program.

Karen is no stranger to the ravages of the opioid crisis.

Like many, she has personal experience with opioid addiction in her family. It started innocently enough, with her daughter’s adolescent anxiety issue bringing drugs into her life as doctor-prescribed treatment.

“This, combined with peer pressure and the grief suffered from the death of her brother when she was 18, started a slow but downward spiral,” Karen explains.

“There are different paths to substance use disorder, and there are different paths to recovery, too. As a parent it is hard to pinpoint what is going on until something dramatic happens.”

For Karen, it was when she received one of the worst phone calls any parent could imagine: her daughter had been air-lifted to Chapel Hill following a head-on collision.

Her status was unknown. It wasn’t until several weeks

Louis Leake, who often speaks on the opioid crisis, at the 2019 Opioid Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit in Raleigh

later they learned substances were involved.

“When my daughter had started treatment, we did not know that, unfortunately, relapse is a part of this disease.

The journey of recovery wasn’t always easy or pleasant as a parent of a loved one suffering,” Karen says. Her daughter has started a new life after being in recovery for several years. “Friends, family and people in general do not understand the heartbreak of not being able to help the one you love, or to even talk about it. Stigma is such a huge factor in families not getting the help and support they need.”

Taking the first step

The most important work is to remove the stigma of substance use disorders. For some, the perceived shame of addiction treatment keeps them from seeking help until it is too late.

Macon Moye, former vice president and general manager of WRFX’s John Boy and Billy network in Charlotte, first began taking pain medication for chronic knee pain. What was occasional use became daily, then became paired with alcohol. For years he refused to seek treatment until he was eventually hospitalized for more than three months.

“Two decades of drug and alcohol abuse takes a toll on your organs. They had shut down. Quit working,” he recalls of his 2012 near-death experience. Now, he is nearly a decade into recovery and supports others who are battling through recovery and the stigma associated with it through work at Chloe’s Place in Southern Pines (chloesplace.net) and at the Raleigh-based Welwynn Outpatient Center (welwynn.com).

Macon urges people who are suffering from a substance use disorder to seek treatment: “Life is too short to live dulled and desensitized.”

Carolina Country Contributing Editor Gordon Byrd is a veteran who works for UNC Pembroke. While not working or writing, he spends most of his time with family and church.

Seeking help Are you or someone you know struggling with a substance use disorder? Contact the Alcohol and Drug Council of North Carolina at 800-688-4232 or alcoholdrughelp.org.

12 | February 2022

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Carolina People Heart of North Carolina Visitors Bureau

No Taste Like Home

By Bridgette A. Lacy

On work days, Don Simmons starts at 6 a.m. ordering supplies, scheduling work shifts, and writing the daily menu on the chalkboard at Magnolia 23, his Southern cuisine restaurant in downtown Asheboro.

Throughout the day, he may wash dishes, cook the delicious pan-fried chicken, take orders and greet every customer that comes through the door of the cozy space that reminds you of your grandmother’s dining room with mirrors and pictures on the wall.

Everybody ranging from blue collar workers, families, business people and tourists eat there.

“His food is wonderful,” says Asheboro Mayor David Smith. “His fried chicken has been recognized nationally.”

Magnolia 23 opened in 2009, the same year Don retired from his position as a supervisor for Energizer Battery Inc. in Asheboro.

“The economy was rock bottom,” Don says. “But as soon as we opened, we did pretty good.”

Word of the made-from-scratch soul food and the great hospitality kept customers coming through the door.

His wife, Doris, makes the melt-inyour-mouth cornbread and often runs the cash register. And ownership of the business has been passed to daughters Brittany Simmons, a physician assistant in Greensboro, and Crystal Simmons, an associate professor at SUNY Geneseo.

Don is well known beyond his restaurant and volunteers on his days off. His latest service project is organizing a free Crowder Baseball Camp, named for the late Chester Crowder of Asheboro.

“We want every kid to have a chance to play,” Don says.

Bridgette A. Lacy (bridgettelacy@att.net) is the author of “Sunday Dinner: A Savor the South cookbook.”

Don Simmons Claim to fame: Home cookin’. Magnolia 23 was voted #63 on a list of “America’s 75 Best Fried Chicken Spots” by the Daily Meal, a website dedicated to food news.

Most popular dishes: Grilled pork chops, country style steak, fried catfish, mac and cheese, collards and candied yams; desserts include fried apple pie and Hershey bar cake: a chocolate cake with white icing and pieces of Hershey’s candy sprinkles on it.

Read the full version of this article at carolinacountry.com/extras

14 | February 2022

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embership M

02 TWENTY TWENTY TWO

MATTERS

Vegetation management Balancing power reliability with scenic beauty The single major cause of power outages is damage to power lines from trees and limbs during severe weather such as high winds, heavy snow, ice, or lightning.

With over 8,000 miles of power lines to protect, Blue Ridge Energy works year-round on vegetation management to ensure members have the most reliable electricity possible. Blue Ridge ranks among the most reliable electric providers in the nation, and in recent years, has added another method to help achieve reliability in a safe, environmentally friendly manner: aerial tree pruning.

This method utilizes specially trained helicopter pilots who carefully conduct pruning along rights-of-ways.

Trained “spotters” are located on ground level and are in constant communication with the pilot.

Used by utilities across the nation for years, aerial tree pruning is approved by the American National Standards Institute. The process is less intrusive to member property and the environment than traditional methods.

As with all vegetation management, members are notified in advance of pruning. Debris is removed from maintained areas, while in non-maintained areas, debris is either left or bushhogged to the ground.

Our vegetation management program combines several growth control methods that balance scenic beauty with safe, reliable power. For more information about rights-of-way and reliability, visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Resources/Trees-Rights-ofWay-and-Reliability.

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THE

Perspective

Blue Ridge Energy Member s Foundation From Blue Ridge CEO Doug Johnson

This year, we’re celebrating the 15th year of your Blue Ridge Energy Members Foundation!

The Members Foundation was formed in 2007 to expand commitment to the members and communities we serve. It is funded by member donations to Operation Round Up® (ORU) and our subsidiaries; Blue Ridge Energy Propane and Fuels, and RidgeLink, LLC both contribute a portion of their annual profits.

Your Foundation is unique in that 100 percent of all donations go directly to help members in need of crisis energy bill assistance, as well as funding community grants to small, local not-for-profit organizations that help our members and improve the local quality of life.

Another unique quality of the Members Foundation is its Foundation Advisory Committee made up of 12 rotating cooperative members from across our service area. The committee helps our board of directors provide oversight and reviews community grant applications.

Over its lifetime, the Members Foundation has assisted some 20,000 members with crisis energy bill assistance. More than 1,000 families who need a helping hand receive this crisis assistance each year.

These contributions, combined with those from our subsidiaries, make a huge difference in providing a helping hand to those needing it right here in our own communities.

If you haven’t joined ORU, we encourage you to do so now, if you can. If you are already contributing and want to do more, Operation Round Up Plus® allows members to give an extra monthly amount that you determine.

Others find the easiest way to help is to donate all or a portion of their capital credits return (see the cover and insert).

Giving back is a cooperative tradition. The Members Foundation and ORU reflect the power of partnership between members and their electric cooperative. Working together, I’m proud to say that we’re making life better for the people and communities we serve!

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

The Members Foundation, with approval from your board of directors, has also awarded $1.4 million in community grants. These grants have helped provide a variety of services for the aging adults, youth, economic vitality, health care and education.

Member donations to our ORU program have made this possible. I want to thank those of you who are already participating in ORU.

M

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Attention youth!

Scholarship and leadership opportunities are available as part of Blue Ridge Energy’s support of local communities.

To qualify for these opportunities, high school students must join Blue Ridge Energy’s Leadership Track in their freshman or sophomore years, or as early as possible during high school. To join or learn more, visit: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ LeadershipTrack.

In February, qualifying seniors involved in Blue Ridge Energy’s Leadership Track will be invited to apply for up to eight $4,000 renewable scholarships for students seeking a four-year degree. Awards are based on leadership performance, resume

development and a personal interview.

Additionally, for students in Caldwell County, Blue Ridge Energy helps administer the Charles and Lucille Suddreth scholarship, which awards $800 for a student seeking a vocational degree including the Electrical Lineworker Institute. Financial need and academic performance are the primary criteria and the deadline for applications is April 15. Apply at: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/ scholarships.

Leadership camp opportunities as well as college bound workshops are also available to high school students in the Blue Ridge Energy Leadership Track. Learn more at: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/LeadershipTrack.

Scammers targeting members Blue Ridge Energy members have reported being targeted through various scams, many where someone claims to be a co-op employee and demands immediate payment.

These scammers threaten to shut off power if the payment is not received in a certain amount of time. Scammers often ask for personal account information and/or demand that payment be made with a prepaid card.

Scammers are even “spoofing” telephone numbers to make it appear to be coming from Blue Ridge Energy.

If you doubt the identity of someone claiming to represent the co-op, hang up and call Blue Ridge Energy at 1-800-451-5474 or use the phone number listed on your bill.

Here are a few tips to take control of the situation if you’re ever targeted by a scam: •

Take your time. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency so that you’ll

Membership MAT TERS

Blue Ridge-0222.indd 17

act fast and hand over personal information, especially by phone. Take time to think before acting.

•

Be suspicious. Scammers typically request immediate payment through prepaid debit cards or third-party apps.

Unusual requests like this should raise red flags. If the request seems strange and out of the ordinary, you’re likely being targeted by a scammer.

•

Confirm before you act. If you’re contacted by someone claiming to represent Blue Ridge Energy but you’re unsure, just hang up the phone and call the utility directly. Never use the number they may give you. Remember to call the cooperative by using the number on your bill or call 1-800-451-5474. We can verify your account at any time.

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Use portable electric generators safely Portable electric generators can offer benefits should an extended outage occur. However, if you connect a portable electric generator improperly, it could be fatal for you and for line technicians!

Follow these tips to prevent misuse of portable electric generators: •

•

•

•

•

Have a qualified, licensed electrician install a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch between the generator and utility power in compliance with all state and local electrical codes.

extension cords to carry the electric load.

Make sure the cords are rated for outdoor use, have a grounded, threepronged plug, and are in good condition.

•

Do not run extension cords under rugs.

•

Never connect generators directly to your home’s wiring. The reverse flow of electricity can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

•

Never plug a generator into a household outlet.

•

Do not refuel a generator while it is running.

•

Only store fuel outside of living areas and away from heat sources like water heater pilot lights.

•

Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting it down.

•

Keep children and pets away from generators.

Operate electric generators or other fuel-powered machines outside where deadly carbon monoxide fumes cannot enter the home.

Use the generator only in a well-ventilated and dry area located away from air intakes to the house. Do not use a generator in an attached garage.

Do not overload the generator by operating more appliances and equipment than the generator is sized for. The operating instructions should have an output rating for the generator.

Individual appliances should be plugged directly into the receptacle outlet of the generator using appropriately sized

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-0222.indd 18

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

(800) 451-5474

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

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

1/10/22 11:40 AM

PRESIDENTS’ DAY Window Special!

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Initial contact for a free Window and Door Diagnosis must be made and documented on or before 2/28/22, with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. 2No payments and deferred interest for 12 months available from third-party lenders to well qualified buyers on approved credit only. No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 12 months. Products are marketed, sold and installed (but not manufactured) by Renewal by Andersen retailers, which are independently owned and operated under S&L Windows and Doors, LLC d/b/a Renewal by Andersen of the Carolinas. NC Residential Builders License #80213. South Carolina Residential Builders Commission #571. See complete information and entity identification at www.rbaguidelines.com. ©2022 Andersen Corporation. ©2022 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved.

1

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Energy Sense

Mark Gilliland

Budget-Friendly Energy Savings

By Miranda Boutelle

W

e all want to afford being comfortable in our homes — decreasing monthly bills and being more efficient at home is something we all should practice. Here are some budget-friendly energy efficiency tips targeting one of the biggest energy users in the home: the heating system. Heating and cooling account for nearly half of a U.S. home’s energy consumption.

Add coziness to your home One way you can feel warmer in your home without turning up the thermostat is by making your home cozy.

The way our bodies perceive the temperature of a room is based more on the surfaces in the room than the air temperature. In general, harder surfaces feel colder.

For example, your tile floor will feel cooler than your fabric sofa.

Cold floors in a room make us feel colder. Adding an area rug to a hard-surface floor can make us feel warmer, even with the same setting on the thermostat.

The same goes for windows. Windows are typically the least-insulated surface in a room and can feel cold in winter months. Adding or closing curtains can help the room feel warmer.

Check your windows Make sure your windows are closed and locked. Locking windows pulls the sashes tighter together, reducing gaps that allow air to flow through and cause drafts. If your sash locks don’t form a tight fit, adjust them or add weatherstripping.

There’s a variety of window weatherstripping products available for less than $20. Most are simple to install and only require tools you most likely already have around the house, such as scissors and a tape measure.

Mark Gilliland

Make sure your windows are closed and locked to reduce gaps that allow air to flow through and cause drafts.

If you can see light around the edges or underneath the door, you are losing energy. Adding weatherstripping is an easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project.

Some are more permanent solutions, and some are intended to be used for one heating season and then removed. Temporary solutions such as caulk strips, putty, pull-and-peel caulking or window insulation films can be used if you rent your home and can’t make permanent changes.

Seal your doors Weatherstripping doors is an easy do-it-yourself project.

Make sure your doors seal tightly and don’t allow drafts to pass through around the edges or under the door.

Make sure any doors leading to an unheated space — outside or into a garage — are sealed tightly. If you can see light around the edges or underneath the door, or feel air movement when the door is closed, you know you are losing energy.

Because doors need to open and close easily, expect to do a bit of adjusting after installing weatherstripping. If weatherstripping isn’t installed correctly, it can make the door hard to close. Making it too loose defeats the purpose (you need to get it just right).

Close the damper If you have a fireplace, make sure the damper is completely closed when not using it. Leaving the damper open is like leaving a window open, it’s just harder to see. The air you just paid to heat your home will go right out the chimney.

The only exception is some gas fireplaces need to remain open for gas fumes to exit the home. If you have a gas fireplace, check the owner’s manual for more information on the damper position.

Layer up Dressing for the season prevents going overboard on your energy use. It can be tempting to adjust the thermostat to increase your comfort. Putting on a sweater or comfy sweatshirt can have the same comfort impact without increasing your energy use. Slippers can be a big help too, especially when your feet touch a cold floor.

The next time you consider turning up the thermostat a few degrees, try some of these tips first to stay warm and leave increased energy bills out in the cold.

This column was written by Miranda Boutelle of the Efficiency Services Group. Visit carolinacountry.com/your-energy for more ideas on energy efficiency.

20 | February 2022

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Morton_Carilina.Country.2.22.qxp_Layout 1 12/20/21 2:51 PM Page 1

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Vacations Gone Wrong

Lessons learned from less-than-relaxing getaways Maybe it was when you took a right instead of a left, sending your road trip down an unexpected (and unwanted) path. Or maybe that hotel you booked didn’t quite match up to the brochure. If you have tales of woe from vacations gone wrong, you’re not alone—we’ve all been there—and we’d love the opportunity to share them with readers. We’ll pay $50 for each photo or story published in our April 2022 issue.

Rules

Send to

Deadline: February 15, 2022

Online: carolinacountry.com/vacationfails No emails, please.

One entry per household Digital photos should be a minimum of 1200 by 1800 pixels; prints a minimum of 4 x 6 inches.

Include your name, electric co-op, mailing address and email address or phone number with your entry.

Text should not exceed 200 words.

We retain reprint and online rights. Payment will be limited to those entries appearing in print, not entries featured solely on carolinacountry.com.

Mail: Carolina Country—Vacation Fails 3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616 If you would like us to return your photo print, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

(We will not return others.)

carolinacountry.com | 21

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ADVERTISEMENT

THANK YOU! To those who support the

North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center North Carolina’s electric cooperatives hosted their 22nd annual golf tournament and fundraiser in September 2021, raising more than $148,000 for the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center at UNC Hospitals.

Electric cooperatives, in partnership with more than 80 organizations and individuals, have donated more than $2.4 million to the Burn Center over the years.

Beyond providing the very best in compassionate care, the Burn Center’s mission extends to advancing burn prevention education and outreach, innovative treatment, research, rehabilitation and life-long aftercare. Its success has led to the Burn Center’s recognition as one of the best comprehensive burn centers in the world.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are grateful to all of the organizations and individuals who contributed to the success of this fundraiser and the Burn Center. With the help of generous donors like these, the Burn Center can continue its groundbreaking work in helping burn patients become burn survivors.

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22 | February 2022

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Finally . . . a better mobility solution than Scooters or Power Chairs.

The Zoomer’s versatile design and 1-touch joystick operation brings mobility and independence to those who need it most.

Joystick Control (adaptable left or right)

If you have mobility issues, or know someone who does, then you’ve experienced the difficulties faced by millions of Americans. Simple tasks like getting from the bedroom to the kitchen can become a time-consuming and potentially dangerous ordeal.

You may have tried to solve the problem with a power chair or a scooter but neither is ideal. Power chairs are bulky and look like a medical device.

Scooters are either unstable or hard to maneuver.

Now, there’s a better alternative . . . the Zoomer.

My Zoomer is a delight to ride! It has increased my mobility in my apartment, my opportunities to enjoy the-out-of-doors, and enabled me to visit the homes of my children for longer periods of time. The various speeds of it match my need for safety, it is easy to turn, and I am most pleased with the freedom of movement it gives me.

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The Zoomer and Zinger Chairs are personal electric vehicles and are not medical devices nor wheelchairs. They are not intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. They are not covered by Medicare nor Medicaid. © 2021 Journey Health and Lifestyle

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85032

Please mention code 116359 when ordering.

1/7/22 12:29 PM

Onslow County Tourism

Oldest Operating

USO Delivers

Jacksonville USO has been ‘always by their side’ for nearly 80 years

By Pamela A. Keene Although the original building is currently closed, volunteers at the USO Jacksonville Center have been making a difference since 1942.

Megan Boggs knows the benefits of being a military spouse, which became all the more apparent when traveling alone with a 3-week-old infant. In 2013, on her way to introduce her son to her parents in Pensacola, her flight from Seattle was delayed.

“They took me in, comforted me and made everything okay.”

As she juggled her baby, extra luggage, a baby carrier and tried to navigate the flight changes, an airline official asked her if she was military.

“I replied that my husband was, and the airline employee pointed

me in the direction of the USO, knowing I needed their help. They took me in, comforted me and made everything okay.”

After she and her husband, U.S. Marine Capt. Gary Boggs, were transferred to the Marine Corps Air Station New River in Eastern North Carolina in 2019, she saw an advertisement for a facilities administrator at Jacksonville’s USO facility. It carries the designation as being the oldest continuously operating USO in the world.

“I was so excited when I was hired in early 2020,” Megan says, who has since been promoted to supervisor. “I started work the week of the COVID shutdown, so it’s been interesting to say the least. The best part is that we are able to continue our mission of the USO to support our troops

and their families, provide them comfort and a sense of family away from home. Our slogan is ‘Always by Their Side.’”

USO NC

“As a first-time mom, I knew I could easily navigate my traveling alone with a newborn,” says Megan. “Boy, was I wrong. If it hadn’t been for the USO in Seattle, I don’t know what I would have done.”

USO Outdoor Adventure Team deep sea fishing off Cape Hatteras

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USO NC

Onslow County Tourism

t the 1942.

Legacy of service The USO was founded in 1941 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt brought together more than a halfdozen service organizations to help the morale of the military and support those on the home front. Under the name United Service Organization, today it operates more than 250 centers around the world, including sites in communities, airports and military bases.

The USO supports service members stationed abroad, training or accomplishing missions in remote parts of the globe. It also connects with families of service members who are back home. The USO mission is to connect service members to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation.

It’s a congressionally chartered private entity — not part of the federal government — that receives its funding from individuals, organizations and corporations.

With six centers statewide, USO NC serves an average of 567,000 troops over the course of a year. All locations rely heavily on volunteers, some who are connected with the military and others, who as civilians, want to contribute.

USO NC

USO NC

Troop movement at RDU airport

Pictured is Marine Cpl. Kenneth Coty who, in 1963, found time to participate as a volunteer at Camp Lejeune, NC

“We couldn’t do all we do without our amazing volunteers,” Megan says, who, with Hailey Day, center operations and program coordinator, are the only paid employees at the Jacksonville USO. “They are always here for our service members and their families, no matter what the mission entails.”

Ongoing support Aside from the challenges of the pandemic, Megan has been pressed into service on another front.

The 79-year-old building that has housed the USO since 1942 was closed several months ago because of concerns about the structure of the foundation.

“Even without a physical building, we are able to carry out our mission and programs,” she says. “We’ve been working with base officials to move into a new facility, but in the meantime we are continuing our work. Our mission is in the heart of the service members and their families, and we will always do what is necessary to carry on regardless of location.”

A major part of the USO work surrounds providing resources for service members and military families in all stages of their service. Programs assist families moving into new communities, from helping families connect with schools to bridging

relationships with other military families. The organization’s work also provides support for moves from a military career into the civilian realm, and provides care for unaccompanied soldiers to let them know they’re not overlooked — even down to offering snack and personal-care packets during transitions.

“It sounds like a little thing, but for that solider who has no family nearby, having a pack of snacks on their racks when they return home or are quarantined due to COVID-19 can mean a great deal,” she says.

The Jacksonville USO typically serves more than 4,000 personnel each month.

“Particularly as a military spouse, I’m honored to wear the USO logo,” Megan says. “I remember that feeling of being alone in Seattle with a newborn and how the caring people with the USO helped me that day.

I am so grateful to be able to help others and give back, especially for our service members and their families who are making such sacrifices to serve our country.”

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

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NC Outdoors

Small Lures Can Land a Big Catch Downsize tackle to rejuvenate your fishing fun Story and photo by Mike Zlotnicki

In this time of the year between the end of hunting seasons and the beginning of spring fishing, I reminisce about various lures I’ve used through the years. My first “favorite” lure as a child was a red-and-white Heddon River Runt. I saw it in a bass’ maw in a Field & Stream article, and if it’s in an article it has to be good, right?

Through the years, though, certain lures became staples for different applications and species. Pro bass angler Jeffrey Thomas turned me on to the floating worm, so Danny Joe Humphrey’s Original Floater (distributed by Catch Outdoors in Raleigh (catchoutdoors.com) has been a constant for bass fishing. Ditto any topwater chugger, just for the explosive surface strike. For years, my choice bass fishing lure was a moccasin-colored Culprit plastic worm, Texas rigged with a 3/8-ounce bullet weight and a 3/0 offset worm hook. The Rapala Original Floating Minnow is always close by and comes in a variety of sizes, including 11/2-inch, 1/16-ounce size. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the Johnson Beetle Spin, which runs from 1/32 ounce to 1/8 ounce.

The reason I add the size or weight offerings for some lures is because as I’ve gotten older, more experienced (or jaded?), I’ve grown to enjoy downsizing my tackle and targeting fish of any size. Small fish bite smaller lures, and bigger fish will too.

Admittedly, I mostly pond fish these rather than fight the crowds at the boat ramps. If I’m in a boat, it’s most likely my smaller johnboat that slides in and out of my pickup bed. Instead of picking up a 6- or 7-foot spinning or baitcasting outfit with 10- or 12-pound test line, I often use an old 4½- foot Shimano Compre spinning combo with 4-pound test, or a Pflueger Trion spinning combo with 6-pound test line, and throw a 1/16-ounce Rapala or a 1/32-ounce to 1/16-ounce Beetle Spin. Everything in the pond will eat either one.

The diminutive Beetle Spin is basically a “safety pin” type spinner bait with a plastic grub body. (Bett’s Tackle in Fuquay-Varina (bettstackle.net) distributes the Bett Spin, a worthy facsimile.) It’s pretty much a cast-and-retrieve lure, but unlike the larger skirted spinnerbaits, one can unclip the blade holder and use the lure as a jig, valuable for fishing vertically in a boat or trying to reach deeper fish from shore. Of course, you can clip a split shot a foot above the lure and achieve some depth while still taking advantage of the spinning blade’s flash and vibration.

The Rapala has many imitators, but the balsa wood original is hard to beat. The sizes range from 1½ inch to 7 inches, straight or jointed in some models. The smallest models the 1½-inch FO3 and the 2-inch FO5 both weigh 1/16 of an ounce. One can “cast and crank” in a steady retrieve, with the FO3 running 2 to 4 feet deep and the FO5 running 3 to 5 feet. A neat thing to do with either is to use them as a top-water bait, twitching them in place after the cast and “teasing” a bass to bite. If there’s no action on top, simply retrieve and the side-to-side wobble imitating a baitfish will sometimes induce a strike.

Downsizing my tackle when the mood strikes has made fishing even more fun. Go small, and go fishing.

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.

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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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1/11/22 7:43 PM

CC1984_BEMEH5_CaroCountry.qxp_BEMEH5_CarolinaCountry_Feb2022 12/22/21 9:24 PM Page 1

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1/7/22 12:46 PM

Carolina Kitchen

S

W

W n O n w

D

Creamy Sweet Potato Breakfast Shake

F 1

With oat milk

Have you noticed all the “milks” these days in your dairy department? We’re into oat milk! It’s flavorful and makes great shakes, especially when paired with NC sweet potatoes. Whip up a batch for a filling breakfast, or freeze and eat as a custardy ice cream too!

1½ cups frozen sweet potato (approximately) 1 small ripe banana 1 cup creamy oat milk ½ cup vanilla yogurt 1 tablespoon hemp or chia seeds (we used a combination) 1 teaspoon each vanilla and almond extracts 1 tablespoon honey Pinch of salt A couple dashes of cinnamon To do ahead of time: roast and peel several sweet potatoes (any kind).

Cut into 1-inch chunks and flash freeze on a tray. Put pieces into a zippered bag once frozen to use when needed.

To make the shake, put all ingredients into a blender and whirl until nice and creamy. If too thick, add a little more milk for the consistency you like.

Garnish with a dusting of cinnamon and seeds.

Yield: 2 shakes, about 1½ cups each

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.

Easy Cheesy Everything Bagels

Kick your morning off right with these gluten- and carb-free bagels. Just a touch of red pepper offers a little pizazz, but leave it out if you’re not a fan — or add more if you are! A sprinkling of Everything Bagel Seasoning tops them off.

Enjoy as is, or with avocado or cream cheese.

2 cups grated, melty-type cheese (like cheddar, Swiss, provolone, mozzarella) 1 cup grated, hard and dry cheese (like Parmesan, Asiago, Romano or Gouda) 4 eggs, lightly beaten ½–1 teaspoon crushed red pepper ½ cup chopped chives ¼ cup Everything Bagel Seasoning Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly oil a doughnut pan.

Combine all ingredients except the “Everything” seasoning. Stir until well mixed.

Divide into doughnut pan (fills 12 cavities) and press down lightly with the back of a spoon. Scatter the seasoning.

Bake 12–15 minutes or until puffy and lightly browned. Let stand about 10 minutes in pan before removing.

Serve with avocado, guacamole, cream cheese or whatever you like!

Yield: 12 bagels

30 | February 2022

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1/10/22 12:19 PM

t b r a t

Carolina Kitchen

Sunny Side Up Breakfast Salad With ginger-maple vinaigrette

From Your Kitchen

Who says salads can’t be enjoyed for breakfast? Many communities now have year-round farmers’ markets, so bundle up and visit yours.

Or find “rainbow” toppings in your grocer’s produce department. No need for exact ingredient amounts for this salad, but check out what we put on ours for inspiration.

Dressing ½ cup fresh orange juice Zest of 1 orange 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice ¼ cup light oil of choice 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 4 teaspoons maple syrup ½ teaspoon salt Fresh cracked black pepper

Salad Winter greens (we used a kale mix) Roasted acorn squash Persimmon Pomegranate arils Blueberries Clementines Dragon fruit Nuts Slices of cheese Quinoa salad (from the deli counter) Eggs (we prefer sunny side up!)

For dressing, combine ingredients in jar and refrigerate for up to 1 week (makes about 1 cup).

For salad, set aside some time to prep all your ingredients for the week so you can quickly enjoy a rainbow salad for breakfast before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. Slice, dice, peel, roast and refrigerate so you’ll only need to toss it all together and throw an egg on top. Or if you prefer, boil some eggs and use those instead.

Chocolate Espresso Banana Bread

The espresso and dark cocoa powders lend rich undertones to this fudgy bread. Chocolate cake for breakfast? Absolutely!

1¼ cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup dark cocoa powder (we used Hershey’s Special Dark) 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (or sub instant coffee) 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 stick butter

1 cup sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (2–3 brown bananas) ½ cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a loaf pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda and salt until well combined.

Using a hand mixer, cream butter and sugar together for about 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time.

Mix in dry ingredients. Add banana, sour cream and vanilla.

Pour into loaf pan. If desired, top with chips.

Bake for 55 minutes. Bread is done when a toothpick comes out clean.

Recipe courtesy of Erin Binkley, Wake Forest, a member of Wake Electric

Send Us Your Recipes

To roast acorn squash: wash, slice in half and remove seeds. Slice into 1-inch thick half-moons. Toss with oil and roast at 400 degrees for about 25 minutes.

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.

carolinacountry.com/recipes We take food seriously. Search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient, with a new recipe featured every week! carolinacountry.com | 31

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1/11/22 12:44 PM

Carolina Adventures

where

in Carolina Country is this ?

Send your answer by February 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 March issue, will receive $25.

January winner

January

The January “Where Is This” photo by Jones-Onslow EMC member Barry Fetzer features the Hugh Trader General Store, located on Miller Boulevard in Havelock. Barry took the photo during the 2010 winter storm that hit Craven County, and said the store looks the same today. He quipped that the store probably hasn’t changed much since built on that location around 1920. He adds that his wife would ride her bike to the store to buy a loaf of bread for her mom in the 1950s. Others remember buying penny candy, RC Cola and ice cream here. The store once served as the center of commerce between New Bern and the coast, where families used the barter system to purchase items, and it held the local post office. Reader Dennis Stokes noted that Babe Ruth bought provisions here when he fished in the area. The store is now maintained by the Havelock Historical Preservation Society. The winning entry chosen at random from almost 300 correct submissions came from Ethan Sanford of Hamlet, a Pee Dee Electric member.

carolinacreators Lakota John John Lakota Locklear (Lakota John) is a roots and blues musician hailing from the Lakota and Lumbee tribes, who grew up in Pembroke near the Lumber River. Lakota John’s career started with his dad’s record collection, grounding the budding musician in jazz and classic rock. But it was a journey to a blues workshop in Port Townsend, Washington, that opened his eyes to what had been around him all along. “I had to fly 3,000 miles to hear about all those blues guys and about Piedmont roots music,” he says.

He put that inspiration to work producing songs like “Good Notes,” a heartfelt piece, buoyed by his simple and classic picking style, emblematic of his lyrics-first approach. “If the story is strong enough, the music should support it,” John says. “Less is more.”

carolinacountry.com/music Come Hear NC, an initiative of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, is proud to bring exciting NC creators to readers of Carolina Country.

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Learn more about Lakota John and listen to his song “Good Notes.”

1/7/22 3:54 PM

We' Nor Nat Wh stat step you Nor stor to le

We're celebrating 50 years of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources!

Whether you're looking to explore a state park, visit a museum event, or step back in time at a historic site, you're in the right place! We help tell North Carolina's story, which is your story too. Join us at www.ncdcr.gov to learn more.

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GET PREPARED If severe winter weather causes power outages, Blue Ridge Energy crews are ready to respond. You can be prepared, too. Know what to do and have emergency supplies on hand.

SUPPLY CHECKLIST Flashlights and other emergency lighting Radio A corded landline phone Fresh batteries and power banks Non-perishable food Manual can opener Blankets

Back up power for any necessary medical devices First aid kit and necessary medications Water supply for drinking, cooking and flushing commodes Extra food for your furry friends

Stay connected and alert. Keep your mobile phone and devices charged.

Sign up for our Outage Texting service and download the Blue Ridge Energy Mobile App. You can also quickly report an outage by calling the PowerLine at 1-800-448-2383.

Visit BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Storm. It’s your one-stop shop for helpful outage information.

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What’s going on?

You need to know what’s going on if you experience a power outage. That’s why Blue Ridge Energy keeps members up to date through outage text alerts, our website, mobile app and social media outlets.

Find out what’s going on.

By signing up for outage texting, you can receive

Enroll in Outage Texting with the mobile phone listed on your account. Simply text “START” to 70216.

updates. The first texts notify participants of an outage and estimated restoration time. Another text goes out when power is restored. You can also text to check the status.

The website and mobile app also help. The outage map details the number of affected consumers, outage duration and estimated restoration time.

We’ll let you know what’s going on!

Download the Blue Ridge Energy Mobile App on your smart device.

You can also call the Powerline at 1-800-448-2383 to report an outage.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.

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