2022-09-BEMC

PERIODICAL SEPTEMBER 2022 Information on Virtual Annual Meeting and Annual Report Inside

Members arrive to register and vote last year

Here’s how you can hear from your cooperative’s management team about the state of the co-op, and participate in the democratic process. There are gifts and prize drawings too! We’re holding the 2022 Annual Membership Meeting in a virtual format on Saturday, September 24, at 10:30 a.m. • The meeting will be posted at bemc.org/annual-meeting. • Submit any questions you would like to be answered at the annual meeting to annual.meeting@bemc.org • You can register and vote for your Board of Directors at any office location on September 21 from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and September 22 from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • Gifts will be available for the first 2,000 members who register and vote in-person. • All those who register and vote will be eligible for prize drawings, and prizes will be mailed to the winners. Thank you for being a member! Join us for your 2022 virtual Annual Meeting!

PERIODICAL Published by September 2022 Be energy efficient on vacation page 20 Plant this cool weather crop now page 26 Native American Artifacts of North Carolina page 10 Your Brunswick Electric Annual Report is inside —see center pages The magazine of

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10 3022 Our state’s English settlements date back hundreds of years. But North Carolina’s earliest settlers, Native Americans, had arrived thousands of years prior. Archaeologists and private collectors reconstruct their early history through artifacts such as these, collected from around the state. (Learn where each of these artifacts was found on page 10.) Watercolor by Gary Palmer, a member of Union Power Cooperative. OnFavoritestheCover 10 Connections to the Past Archeologists and private artifact collectors study North Carolina’s earliest societies. 12 Coming Home to Make Meaningful Change Megan Hiner is providing mental health services in northeastern NC. 22 Up, Up and Away Get a taste of Iredell County on the ground and above the trees. 2 From Our Readers 4 Viewpoints 6 More Power 20 On the House 26 Carolina Gardens 28 Marketplace 30 Carolina Kitchen 32 Where is This? 32 Carolina Creators CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS Carolina Country Scenes Get your cameras at the ready! Send us your favorite photo of people or scenes from around the state to be considered for our annual photo contest. See page 2 for details. carolinacountry.com | 1 Volume 54, No. 9

Send Your Photos!

Deadline is Nov. 15, 2022.

Thank you so much!

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.

Mike Finamore, a member of Albemarle EMC Editor’s note: Excellent point, Mike. We’re proud of all of this year’s Youth Tour participants and have posted the full list, along with their sponsoring electric co-ops, at carolinacountry.com/youthtour22.

THIS MONTH: Native American Artifacts

In September 2003, we ran an article on Native American arrowheads by Ron Harris, a member of the Piedmont Archaeology Society, which is still frequently read on our website. This month, we continue to explore the topic of artifacts and archaeological sites around the state (and hear more from Ron, who was interviewed for the story on page 10). Also, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives played a prominent role in a recent international electrification conference — learn more on page 6. —Scott Gates, editor

Us

Visit: carolinacountry.com/photocontest NCVisit Town Creek Indian Mound 2 | September 2022

Start rounding up your best photos and stories of Carolina people or scenes for our 2022 Carolina Country Scenes photo contest. We’ll pay $50 for those published in our January 2023 issue.

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.

From Our Readers Youth Tour Recognition Thank you for providing Carolina Country magazine on a monthly basis. It is always informative and enjoyable to read. When reading the cover article on the NC Youth Tour there was no mention or listing of who the students were and what communities they represented. Other than the mention of one or two students, it would have been nice to have their achievement recognized. Thanks again for providing a nice easy read on topics reflecting our local communities.

Jan Risk, a member of Tideland EMC

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 54, No. 9 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 Rue Reynold Editorial Assistant Sarah Thompson Editorial Intern Tara Verna Creative Director Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer Keith Alexander Keith@carolinacountry.comAdvertising 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.

Pirate Fan Just wanted everyone involved with the July 2022 publication of this magazine to know I truly enjoyed it! The articles “A Taste of the Pirate’s Life” and “Lady Pirates of the Carolina Coast” were especially interesting (pages 8 and 12, respectively).

In this way, we are advancing burn care here in North Carolina as well as for others in clinics around the world. Your electric cooperative, as one of the 26 electric co-ops across the state, is a vital partner in the development, growth and support of that work.

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Advancing Burn Care in North Carolina and Beyond By Booker T. King, M.D.

Burns are particularly difficult to treat. Our skin is our largest organ, and it has an equally large job to do. It keeps fluids inside and protects us from infection. When burns break down that barrier, which can happen in a matter of seconds, it opens patients up to the possibility of serious and lifethreatening infection.

Booker King, M.D., is director of the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center in Chapel Hill.

One such patient who came to the center in early 2020 was the victim of a random assault that left her with burns over 80% of her body. She underwent close to 20 operations and difficult physical therapy before being able to return home after 11 months in the hospital. She’s now an advocate for burn patients, joining in the efforts of our team of physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychiatrists, case managers and social workers to ensure that when patients leave the Burn Center, they have all the support possible.

For more than 40 years, the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center at UNC Health Care in Chapel Hill has been providing that kind of immediate and long-term care to burn patients, saving hundreds of lives and restoring thousands, both children and adults, to health and productivity. And since the Burn Center first opened in 1981, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have offered financial support to help ensure it remains focused on providing the best, most supportive burn care possible. Through the support of electric co-ops, we’re able to meet the challenges that come with being one of the top five busiest burn centers in the country. Our patients include lineworkers who have been injured on the job, children who have been burned by household hazards, and others who have experienced major, life-changing trauma that can take years to recover from.

For doctors treating burn victims, the first challenge is to save the patient’s life by repairing the burned area — this can take anywhere from months to more than a year. The second challenge is to help the patient heal, physically and mentally, to close to the point they were before the burn. This can take a lifetime.

On the research side, the Burn Center is able to leverage its position as one of the largest and most comprehensive burn centers in the world to the benefit of others in our field. Through electric co-op donations, we were able to fund a research fellow dedicated to clinical research, who is tasked with analyzing vast amounts of data from the Burn Center to better understand effective treatments in burn care.

Through the support of electric co-ops, we’re able to meet the challenges that come with being one of the top five busiest burn centers in the country.

The Jitterbug® Smart3 is our simplest smartphone with a simple menu, large screen and exclusive health and safety services. EASY Everything you want to do, from texting and taking pictures, to emailing and getting directions, is organized in a single list on one screen with large, legible letters. Plus, Voice Typing makes writing emails and texts effortless. SMART Turn your Jitterbug Smart3 into a personal safety device with our Urgent Response Service and exclusive health apps. AFFORDABLE Lively® has affordable value plans as low as $1499 a month or Unlimited Talk & Text plans only $1999 a month. Choose the plan that works best for you, then add your required data plan for as low as $249 per month2. Our smartphonesimplest ever. Data plans as low as $249/mo.2 $1999month2 TaUnlimitedlk&Text $1999month2 TUnlimitedalk&Text To order or learn more, 1.800.742.7710call Flexible and a ordable plans $1499/mo.2 300 minutes | 10¢ per text $1999/mo.2 Unlimited minutes | Unlimited texts Best Value Add required data plan for as low as $249 a month2. No feescancellationever 100% customerU.S.-basedserviceNocontractslong-termNo monthlyhiddenfeesMost nationwidereliablecoverage GRANDPARENT’S DAY 25%OFF 1 125% off regular price of $149 99 is only valid for new lines of service. Offer valid 8/28/22 through 9/24/22 at Rite Aid and Walgreens. Offer valid through 10/2/22 at Best Buy. 2 Monthly fees do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. A data plan is required for the Jitterbug Smart3. Plans and services may require purchase of a Lively device and a one-time setup fee of $35. Urgent Response or 9-1-1 calls can be made only when cellular service is available. Urgent Response service tracks an approximate location of the device when the device is turned on and connected to the network. Lively does not guarantee an exact location. Urgent Response is only available with the purchase of a Health & Safety Package. Consistently rated the most reliable network and best overall network performance in the country by IHS Markit’s RootScore Reports. LIVELY and JITTERBUG are trademarks of Best Buy and its affiliated companies. ©2022 Best Buy. All rights reserved. Available in-store or online at: lively.com/smart

“We are working together toward a shared goal: a decarbonized economy achieved through a variety of solutions at a pace and cost that doesn’t leave anyone behind,” Brannan said. “Our efforts should go beyond not leaving anyone behind to inviting all people and businesses to engage in new energy solutions that benefit them and balance the needs of the grid. We have a tremendous opportunity to innovate and reshape the energy industry from being the backbone — to also being the brains — of our society andOthereconomy.”speakers from electric cooperatives shared insights on topics ranging from consumer electrification programs, to grid resilience, to equity in the energy transition.

Nikki Hensley, innovation and business development analyst for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, was a panelist in a discussion on the environmental and economic benefits of electric vehicles, and ensuring that EV adoption is accessible to all, including underserved communities.

Joe Brannan spoke during the Electrification 2022 opening session.

n June, the Electrification 2022 International Conference & Exposition brought together more than 1,500 stakeholders in Charlotte to chart the future of energy. The second semi-annual conference, hosted by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), drew innovators from around the world to discuss the path to decarbonization and the role of beneficial electrification in achieving a net-zero carbonSeveraleconomy.representatives from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives spoke at the event, sharing insight into how cooperatives are leading innovation that supports a Brighter Future vision — a shared mission of maintaining affordability and reliability while pursuing sustainability goals, as well as programs and partnerships with members that achieve beneficial outcomes.

Jim Musilek, vice president of innovation and business development for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, spoke to audiences on two panels about agricultural electrification and utility programs that accelerate end-use electrification.

Lee Ragsdale, senior vice president of energy delivery for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, led a panel on grid resilience, and the technology, planning and investment to support it, in a rapidly electrifying society.

September Quick Hits A Grand Day Do something grand for Grandparents’ Day this September 11! Children can connect youngerlove — withwisdom — andcanGrandparentsorgrandparentswitholderadults;sharegenerations. Farm Traffic As farmers prepare for harvest, be aware farmwithsharepreparedandtotheroadslow-movingvehicles. School Days Set a consistent bedtime for duringneedsleepgettingthey’retochildrenschool-agedensurethetheyforsuccesstheweek. EV Week Considering going electric? driveelectricweek.orgVisit to find in-person and online events to learn about electric vehicles during National Drive Electric Week, Sept. 23–Oct. 2. NC IConferenceeInternationalInsightsLeadersCo-opShareatlectrification

Travis Bode of Surry-Yadkin EMC and Todd Moore of Pee Dee Electric led a pre-conference workshop on electrification in the agriculture and food industries, sharing details about partnerships with local commercial members that have integrated innovation and new electricMarshalltechnologies.Cherry,president and CEO of Roanoke Electric Cooperative, led a workshop on practical approaches to community decarbonization, as well as a panel titled “Equity at Scale: Programs and Partnerships to Advance Solutions for Impacted Communities.”

At the opening session, Joe Brannan, CEO of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, emphasized the cooperatives’ focus on members in developing programs and strategies to power a brighter future.

“Much is at stake as we take on the global challenge of decarbonizing our economy,” Brannan said in his remarks. “Achieving net-zero energy across the U.S. by 2050 will involve an energy transformation that is unprecedented in speed, scope and scale. Working together, we can succeed in this transition.”

—Olivia Dela Cruz, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

6 | September 2022 more power

—Math teacher Cecelia Hampton (right), pictured with fellow math teacher Shannon Osborne

“Mrs. Hampton is the most decorated Bright Ideas teacher in our service area,” Rountree said. “We’re proud to continue Blue Ridge Energy’s 28-year tradition of supporting educators like Mrs. Hampton and investing in the future of our local students through the Bright Ideas program.”

Hampton won her first Bright Ideas grant in 2004, for a project that paired older and younger students to create a recycling effort using red wiggler worms and lunchroom garbage in order to develop a better understanding of our impact on the environment. Since then, she has won close to $11,000 in Bright Ideas grants for more than a dozen projects covering several subjects, ranging from math and history to science and technology. She said the projects have helped students schoolwide delve deeper into learning and make broader connections.

—Lindsey Davis, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

Alleghany Teacher’s ‘Bright Ideas’ Take Students on Problem-Solving Adventures

Cecelia Hampton and her students with “Whiteboard World,” her 2019 Bright Ideas Grant winner.

carolinacountry.com | 7 More Power

A t Sparta Elementary in Alleghany County, enthusiasm for learning lights up every corner of the school. Many of the sparks that kindle that enthusiasm emanate from sixth-grade math teacher CeceliaHampton,Hampton.whohas been teaching for 31 years, believes in making learning interactive and relevant for her students. To put her creative ideas into action, she turned to her local electric cooperative, Blue Ridge Energy, and the Bright Ideas education grant program.

“I like to think of Blue Ridge Energy and the Bright Ideas program as spreading ‘glitter’ far and wide across our school,” Hampton said. “It has stuck with us and turned up in the most amazing places!” Her partnership with her local electric co-op has provided new tools for Hampton to innovate the ways her students learn, taking students on interactive experiences through history and setting them up for success as they advance through grade levels. Her most recent project in 2021, “Dive into Digital,” equips students with Wacom electronic drawing tablets and digital scanners to take any paper project and turn it into a digital masterpiece.

Tasha Rountree, director of community relations for Blue Ridge Energy, says that supporting students and teachers is part of their mission as a community-owned cooperative to power a brighter future, now and for generations to come.

Bright Ideas grants are offered by electric cooperatives in North Carolina to enhance student success and bring creative learning to life.

Since 1994, electric cooperatives in North Carolina have supported 14,000 projects statewide, benefiting millions of students. Applications for Bright Ideas grants for the 2022–2023 school year are being accepted now at NCBrightIdeas.com.

The impact of these projects expands well beyond Hampton’s classroom. As teachers have moved classrooms, and because projects are utilized year after year, the benefits reach schoolwide and are growing every year.

“From worms wiggling to Wacom tablets, I have had the privilege of joining in the joy and wonder of learning,” Hampton said. “The Bright Ideas grant program has provided me with the opportunity year after year to furnish my students with quality, hands-on, problemsolving adventures.”

“I like to think of Blue Ridge Energy and the Bright Ideas program as spreading ‘glitter’ far and wide across our school.”

SUNSET BEACH • OCEAN ISLE BEACH • HOLDEN BEACH OAK ISLAND • CASWELL BEACH • BALD HEAD ISLAND LELAND • SHALLOTTE • SOUTHPORT • CALABASH Like the tide, you will return. Book your holiday stay and enjoy seasonal offers at CrystalCoastNC.org. Holidays With A Twist fun for the family!whole MORE DETAILS TO COME AT NCZOO.ORG

See where she first turned a helmet into a crown. Based on a true vacation. Watch her story and plan yours at visitnc.com

Hardaway-Dalton spear point Stone pipe Old Town burnished jar Randolph stemmed spear point Palmer corner-notched spear point Carved stone face Archeologists and private artifact collectors study NC’s earliest societies By Emory Rakestraw Native American Artifacts of North Carolina These are just a few examples of artifacts that can be found around the state. Visit bit.ly/unc-artifacts to view 3D models of more from UNC’s archaeology program. Late Woodland Period (A.D. (TownMontgomery1550–1700)CountyCreek) Middle Woodland Period (A.D. Jackson300–1000)County Middle Woodland Period (500 B.C.–A.D. 500) Montgomery County Late Paleoindian Period (8500–7900 B.C.) Stanly (HardawayCountysite) Late Woodland Period (A.D. Stokes1500–1600)County Early Archaic Period (8000–6000 B.C.) Stanly County (Hardaway site) to Connectionsthepast 10 | September 2022

“It’s not about what you find, it’s whataboutyoufindout.”

In Gilead, Town Creek Indian Mound was settled as we know it today between the years 1000 to 1150, and has under gone consistent archaeological research for more than half a century. The Pee Dee people flourished there as part of the South Appalachian Mississippian culture, a regional civilization that shared cultural traits including earthen mounds, widespread trading and reli gious“Theseceremonies.peoplewere living a woodland lifestyle and exper imenting with gardening,” explains Rich Thompson, site manager of Town Creek Indian Mound. “We also have jewelry made with shells from the coast, Mica elements from the mountains, and copper, which I was told came from the Great Lakes area.”

For someone like Dr. Randolph Daniel Jr., who chairs the anthropology department at East Carolina University in Greenville, these finds by private collectors can link to “diagnostic projectile points” (a variety of pointed tools for different uses). In this way, private collectors and archae ologists can work together. Detailing the locations of finds helps archaeologists discover excavation sites, learning the how and why of early inhabitants.

“The Clovis is the oldest and earliest prized Native American point. They’re very hard to come by,” Ron says. He has 50 of them.

“The perspective of professional archaeologists is steward ship; for collectors it’s ownership,” Randy says. “The main question is, who owns the past?”

For novices, it’s important to remember objects found on state land belong to the state. Most arti facts that belong to collectors have been found on their privately owned property or purchased at meetups. If you’re unsure where to start, a tip of advice is to look on“Throughoutriverbanks. time, these societies have been set up within a short distance of fresh, moving water,” Rich explains. For him, the thrill of excavation — for both hobbyists and professionals — revolves around one central theme. “If you’re the person in the trench, you could discover an artifact that hasn’t seen the light of day in thousands of years. It’s a connection to the past and a feeling of knowing you’re the next in line to have contact with that artifact. It creates a fellowship.”

Ron, who lives in Taylorsville and is a member of EnergyUnited, has a vast collection of Native American artifacts — some discovered, some traded and some significant, like his collection of stone Clovis points dating back 10,000 to 12,000 years, which denote the earliest inhabitants of present-day North Carolina.

Found objects Due to vast Native American settlements throughout North Carolina, objects are still waiting to be unearthed. But with slightly differing goals, there can be friction between archaeologists and private collectors.

—Dr. Randolph Daniel Jr. Digital Extras Learn more about Town Creek Indian Mound in a video from NC Historic Sites at carolinacountry.com/extras carolinacountry.com

Notable sites The Hardaway archaeological site, situated in the Uwharrie Mountains outside of Badin, inspired Randy’s Ph.D. disser tation. Hardaway is the oldest excavated site in the state. Artifacts found here indicate occupation that could date to the Paleoindian Period (9,500 – 7,500 B.C.), and the original excavator, the late Dr. Joffre Coe, wove together chronolo gies of consistent settlement. Randy has re-examined much of the Hardaway material, which serves as a guidebook for identifying similar artifacts across the eastern United States.

“It’s not about what you find, it’s about what you find out,” Randy says. “Everyone has a frame of reference for what an arrow head or spearhead looks like, other stone tools are less obvious.”

He encourages collectors to keep detailed records of their findings, such as numbering artifacts to coincide with GPS points. Both seasoned and novice collectors can benefit from Piedmont Archaeology Society (csasi.org/states/nsc) meetups, which provide opportunities to buy artifacts and form

It's only natural to wonder how these materials wound up here, and Rich describes it as a highway system composed of waterways. Canoes allowed Native Americans to estab lish trade routes. While goods were swapped, the rocks that make up the Uwharrie Mountains were the preferred stone for toolmaking, significant to both Town Creek, Hardaway and beyond.

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“Theseconnections.meetupsare also great for meeting other collectors, and sometimes you can even buddy up with people and they will invite you to go on [pre-approved] excavations,” Ron says.

Emory Rakestraw is a Wilmington-based freelance journalist. Her love for North Carolina and its history has inspired a wide range of stories available at emoryrakestraw.wordpress.com

In 1951, at the age of 10, Ron Harris found his first arrowhead. Featuring a pointed tip, flaked scars and composed of fine-grain rock, he immediately knew what lay in his palm. Today,

One person specifically in that community was a hand some fella named Erik Alnes. Erik works for the NC Division of Coastal Management, where he manages three different reserve lands on the Outer Banks. They were married earlier this year! Megan credits Erik’s individual journey for refreshing gratitude in her rural roots.

A pillar of many communities in northeastern North Carolina, Megan Hiner is the proud owner of her own clinic, Mindful Tides, PLLC, where she provides counseling services to folks in need. Megan and I go back to the Washington Youth Tour in 2009. She had never heard of Alleghany High School or my co-op, Blue Ridge Energy. I had never heard of Camden County High School or her co-op, Albemarle EMC. But, like the other 30 rising seniors on the trip, our small public high schools and local co-ops set us on a path for success.

Megan Hiner is providing mental health services in northeastern NC

“I did not really realize what home meant to me until I met my husband,” she explains. “He moved around a lot growing up. His story helped me reflect and be thankful for the strong foundation I was able to build in such a small community.” Well Megan, it was so great catching up with you. Huge congratulations to you and Erik! Excited to see what y’all will do next.

“It was great to see people who really deserve and need support, get support. Seeing folks who were once really struggling begin achieving crucial milestones is incredibly powerful. Generally, mental health services are incredibly stigmatized in our world. In reality, we all need support.”

Coming Home to Make Meaningful Change

By Jacob Brooks

Megan, please meet all o’ my friends across rural NC. All o’ my friends across rural NC, please meet Megan.

Equipped with her Master of social work, Megan returned to NC and picked up where she left off. She returned to Albemarle Hopeline in the fall of 2017 and quickly started working on her licensure. From there, she took a position working with local health departments in Camden, Currituck, Martin, Pasquotank and Washington counties.

Megan and her husband, Erik with their dog Macy. Eric helped her realize how her home town made her grow into who she is.

Where We Come From 12 | September 2022

Megan’s journey took her to Raleigh. She began her undergrad career at Meredith then transferred to NC State. Graduating with a degree in communications, she realized her calling was in the public sector.

Jacob Brooks has personally sought therapy in the past. He's battled depression and anxiety. He wishes all y’all well.

Hey hey, North Cackalacky. I’ve got another servant leader y’all need to meet. She’s just another big-hearted North Carolinian making a difference.

“Time spent with Veteran’s Affairs was incredibly reward ing,” she says with sincerity. “I assisted countless veterans struggling with their mental health and housing insecurity. I also worked at a center designed to support housing insecure and truant teenagers.”

When asked what called her home, a familiar somberness fills the air. “I came back after losing some loved ones in my family. They needed me, so I came home. But I stayed because I was able to find a fantastic community.”

“I care about identifying systems that are not working and making structural change,” she says. “I realized I was in an echo-chamber where the same voices were being heard. I wanted to make real, meaningful change for folks on the Leadoutside.”byherconvictions, Megan began working for agen cies such as Albemarle Hopeline (albemarlehopeline.org), a domestic and sexual violence agency serving Pasquotank, Perquimans, Camden, Currituck, Chowan and Gates counties. In the fall of 2015, she went a little further south to Florida State for a master’s in social work.

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wayNEWAforBEMCmemberstoConnecttoSave! 157-0166-06-07 Free ecobee3 lite smart thermostat offer valid Sept. 6 - 30, 2022. While supplies last. Terms and conditions apply, see site for details. Sales tax may apply. ecobee smart thermostat is a trademark of ecobee. Enroll in Connect to Save and receive a FREE ecobee3 lite smart thermostat. Brunswick Electric is excited to provide you a new offering through our Connect to Save program: a FREE ecobee3 lite smart thermostat (a $149.99 value) or an ecobee SmartThermostat with voice control for $79 ($170.99 value). You will also receive free installation and a $50 annual incentive if you enroll in Connect to Save before September 30. Enrollment starts Sept. 6! This offer ends Sept. 30, 2022. 844-577-SAVEmarketplace.connecttosavenc.com/BEMC(7283) Scan to learn more.

ThePiedmontHawRiver in Saxapahaw | thehaw.org

This area holds a rich history as a home to Native American tribes and extends all the way to providing protection to escaped slaves during the Civil War. With territory running through eight NC counties, the Haw River holds incredible biodiversity in every area, including natural heritage habitats and endangered species. What makes this area stand out among others is its easy access to aquatic insect species, so you can see the evolutionary process right before your eyes.

By Rue Reynold

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country. Linville

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MerchantsCavernsMillpond

NC provides rich adventures for environmental enthusiasts

| linvillecaverns.com

Photos NC

Merchants Millpond | bit.ly/millpondstatepark

Located in Columbia, this National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) holds one of the largest wetland restoration projects in the country. The area possesses a dense popu lation of black bears and welcomes more than 100,000 birds on its vast acres during the winter. Untouched trails rich in botany lead to upland pine forests and the open water on Pungo Lake, where you can listen to thousands of swans and snow geese take flight. This refuge also conserves a rare wetland called, “Pocosin,” a word of Native American origins meaning, “swamp on a hill.”

by Visit

LinvilleMountainsCaverns

It’s no secret North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and mountains in the nation, but did you know it's also a place to observe the fruits of evolution and untouched habitats? Here are five unique areas to experience nature in ways you may not have before.

carolinacountry.com | 15 Carolina Living

Lakes NWR | bit.ly/pocosinlakes

Gates County holds one of North Carolina’s rarest ecological communities, having 760 acres of seasoned ecosystems that have evolved over 190 years. Untouched wilderness resides in expansive wetlands and a combination of pine and hardwood forests, including numerous species of reptiles, amphibians and rare plants. One of its greatest wonders is the Lassiter Swamp, an area that possesses the final marks of an ancient bald cypress swamp. It also holds mistletoe that has twisted trees into unimaginable shapes. Whether it’s exploring the depths of an underground crystal cavern or navigating miles of conservative marsh land, you’ll discover a new appreciation for the world we live in and the creatures we share it with.

Linville Caverns is perfect for anyone seeking an underground adventure. Discovered in the early 1800s, this cavern lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains where groundwater shaped an intricate labyrinth over the centuries. See nature in her rawest form with stalactites and stalagmites lining nearly every surface and colors you rarely see. The cavern is also home to an underground stream of blind fish and a seemingly bottomless pool of water recorded to be over 250 feet deep.

Elk Knob State Park | bit.ly/ElkKnob Elk Knob is home to a high number of natural communities, including many rare or endangered species of flora and animals. Located in the southern Appalachian range, Elk Knob is an excellent spot for any eco-lover whether you’re drawn to mountains, rivers or forests. The area is covered in rich, sweet soils derived from mineral-raden rocks, and the New River is considered to be one of the oldest rivers in the world.

5 Unique Natural Wonders

PocosinCoast

help protect your body during a workout

Ways to restore electrolytes

Scan Subscribe!to 16 | September 2022 Carolina Living

Injuries can happen at any time, so take a small list of items just in case. This kit can include bandages, antibiotic oint ment, antiseptic, elastic wraps, pain-numbing spray and hydrogen peroxide to help kill germs.

MAILINGNAME ADDRESS CIT Y STATE ZIP PHONE NUMBER (If we have questions) 1 Year (12 issues) $12 2 Years (24 issues) $24 Check Enclosed Yes! Please start my subscription. Love Carolina Country? Don’t miss an issue! Subscribe and get Carolina Country in your mailbox every month for just $1 an issue! Co-op Members, check with your electric cooperative to find out if they offer complimentary subscriptions as a benefit of membership. Make checks payable to: “Carolina Country.” Mail to: Carolina Country Subscriptions, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616 carolinacountry.com/subscribe 5 Essential Items to Have When Exercising

Tips to

While carbonated beverages can give you a quick energy boost, these drinks may hinder your performance and create excess sugar you may not want. Staying hydrated is important, so make sure your water or non-carbonated drink is ready to grab when you need it.

Baby wipes Baby wipes can cool you off when you get too hot and can also be used as a quick refresher until you hit the shower.

Source of contact

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country.

You never know what might happen, so have your phone at your side or locate the nearest place you’ll be able to make a call in the event of an emergency. If you’ll be jogging or hiking alone, be sure to tell someone where you’ll be and when to expect you Whetherback.you’re hiking up a mountain or working on planks in a gym, these five tips can assist you in your exercise success.

Non-carbonated drinks

As you sweat, your body releases electrolytes which can result in muscle cramps and long-lasting fatigue. To help prevent or recover from this, consult your MD for the best option for you, such as electrolyte-rich beverages, foods or salt pills.

First-aid kit

By Rue Reynold Cooler weather and beautiful colors are the perfect recipe for outdoor jogs or a window seat at the gym. No matter where your favorite spot lies, remember that your body is top priority and should always be taken care of. Here are five items to bring with you before starting your workout session.

Here’s how you can hear from your cooperative’s management team about the state of the co-op and participate in the democratic process. There are gifts and prize drawings too! September 2022 | 15 SEPTEMBER 2022 Electric cooperatives lead the industry in smart meter deployment, with a 78% use of AMI meters, compared to 63% for the rest of the industry. Meeting!AnnualVirtual2022forJoinPowernumbersinUsYour è We’re holding the 2022 Annual Membership Meeting in a virtual format on Saturday, September 24, at 10:30 a.m. è The annual meeting will be posted at bemc.org/annual-meeting. è Submit any questions you would like to be answered at the annual meeting to annual.meeting@bemc.org. è You can register and vote for your Board of Directors at any office location on September 21 from 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., and September 22 from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. è Gifts will be available for the first 2,000 members who register and vote in-person. è All those who register and vote will be eligible for prize drawings, and prizes will be mailed to the winners. Thank you for being a member!

If you own your home served by the cooperative, receive a monthly electric bill and have two years of service with a good payment history, the loan process is simple:

16 | September 2022 David VICEFrederickPRESIDENTGoreTedderPRESIDENT CUSTOMER SERVICE (800) 842-5871 | OUTAGE REPORTING (800) 682-5309 Shallotte (910) 754-4391 Southport/Oak Island (910) 457-9808 Whiteville (910) 642-5011 AUTO BILL PAYMENT 24/7 (866) 934-6830 P.O. Box 826, Shallotte, NC 28459 email:www.bemc.orgnewsletter@bemc.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS Larry ASST.CalvinSECRETARYFowlerTREASURERDuncanSECRETARYTREASURER Deborah Ahlers Moses Herring Glenn Humbert Perry Sellers Dan JohnStricklandWard Joshua L. MANAGERCEO/GENERALWinslow Dennis ATTORNEYWorley This institution is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Is a LoanWeatherizationRightforYou? I f you’ve been considering an energy efficiency project, whether it’s DIY or one that requires a licensed professional, a Weatherization Loan can help with funding. BEMC members can apply for a 5% loan up to $8,000 for residential projects and up to $10,000 for commercial projects. Terms can be as long as 60 months, and payments are included with your monthly electric bill.  TogetherWeSave.com has a list of energy efficiency ideas for you to consider. Eligible projects include new heat pumps with a minimum 15 SEER rating, new electric or solar water heaters, ENERGY STAR replacement windows and doors, insulation of all types, and duct repair or replacement.

You will be notified of the status of your application within 24 hours. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to be as energy efficient as possible. As always, call (800) 842-5871 to speak with one of our energy experts about any questions you may have.

There’s Still Time! Bright Ideas Education Grants Deadline is September 15 Teachers, as you begin a new academic year, do you have an idea for a project that will enhance your students’ learning experience, but isn’t in the budget? Don’t forget that you can still apply until September 15 for a grant up to $2,000 for an innovative classroom project that needs funding. Visit bemc.org/bright-ideas-grants to apply. Last year, Brunswick Electric distributed $34,372 to local teachers, and this year, you could be among the recipients.

1Choose a contractor (must be licensed for heat pump installation)

2Obtain cost estimates

3Complete an application at any BEMC office or online at bemc.org/ weatherization-loans BEMC offices will be closed Monday, September 5, for Labor Day.

Membership makes a difference – in our resources. Brunswick Electric is one of 26 electric cooperatives in North Carolina and part of an alliance of more than 900 cooperatives across the United States. There’s strength in numbers. We use our collective power to ensure we get the best rates on wholesale energy, and that we have access to the latest, most advanced technology available. And whenever we need help after a severe weather event, it’s nice to know that we have a nationwide network of other co-ops we can call on for help.

Membership makes a difference – in our future. Recognizing and supporting the priorities of our members, we have launched efforts to achieve important sustainability goals.

Membership Makes A Difference

Members come first at BEMC. It’s that simple. Because BEMC belongs to the members we serve, we strive to be accountable, service-driven, and do more for our communities than provide electricity. In short, we aim to put your best interests over the bottom line. That’s where the cooperative difference begins, but that’s far from where it ends. There are several additional ways that your membership makes a difference. Below, we’d like to share four areas of focus where BEMC strives to add additional value and make a difference for you.

Membership makes a difference – in our communities. Community growth and sustainability are vital to Brunswick Electric’s mission. And giving back to the people and organizations that keep our communities strong and growing is important to us. Over the past year, Brunswick Electric provided over $120,000 in programs focused on advancing education, supporting youth opportunities, and promoting economic development. We’re proud to help our neighbors and we’ll continue to be actively involved in partnerships that build a brighter future for all of us.

2 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

Brunswick Electric is on target to reduce carbon emissions by 50 percent from 2005 levels by David PresidentGore, Joshua L. Winslow, CEO David Gore, President Joshua L. Winslow, CEO

On the following pages of our annual report, you’ll see several more highlights of ways that membership makes a difference. If there is ever a way that we can help make a difference in your membership, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We appreciate you, as always. Thank you for being a member.

Membership makes a difference – in our programs and services. It’s you, our member, that guides our cooperative. BEMC was built by members, for members. We listen to your suggestions. We hear your desires. And of course, being members ourselves, we understand your needs. We tailor our programs and services to make sure there are options available to meet them. There’s no such thing as a onesize-fits-all solution. It’s your priorities that have shaped the cooperative and will continue to guide our path ahead.

2030. And reach net-zero carbon levels by the year 2050. We’re exploring and developing new technologies, programs and services to help reach these goals, but rest assured, we’ll never sacrifice affordability or reliability to get there. And we will never lose sight of the fact that the brightest parts of our future are the people and communities we serve.

For MembersOur

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 3 Our ValuesCooperationIntegrityAgilityServiceSafetyInnovationStewardshipExcellence

$80,000 assistance for

Bright Ideas Education Grants

yearbook staffer Jada Williams with a camera purchased with a grant received by Mrs. Belinda Collins.

Whiteville High School cheerleaders, taken by “Sandspur”

The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour

Brunswick Family Assistance’s Lead Intake Worker Mary Williams (left) and Executive Director Stephanie Bowen

in utility

Sponsored two students for all-expensepaid trips – the 2021 tour was virtual

$34,372 to local teachers for innovative classroom projects

Community

4 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW Warm Homes, Warm Hearts

those in need

Left: Austin Booth enjoying a break from studies. Right: Helen Rippy Roehner sporting her college sweatshirt.

$37,750 to local organizations serving our neighbors

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 5

Community Grants

Left to right: Girl Scout Troop leader Theodora and scouts Cynthia, Mary Claire, Guiliana, and Sonia, and North Brunswick Kiwanis’ Project Dignity leader Barb Dullaghan, packing backpacks for foster children.

Scholarship Highway $10,000 in college tuition to local seniors

After more than a decade in development, the first phase of the Shallotte Riverwalk opened to the public in September 2021.

Brunswick Electric assisted the Town of Shallotte with funding for the purchase of its initial seven acres of riverfront land through the Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture. We requested and were granted a $1.7 million zero-interest USDA loan for the project, and these funds were loaned to the town of Shallotte, along with $300,000 from our revolving loan Futurefund.development might include shops, restaurants, water access, residential units and a small hotel. You’ll find access to the Shallotte Riverwalk at 140 Cheers Street. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenic views that change so beautifully and vary by time of day and season.

Community

6 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

The Shallotte Riverwalk opens

Additionally, the Zion Hill system has the capability to be configured to provide power, during an outage, to a geographic location near the system. But it is its primary capacity, reducing peak demand, that will provide the initial, and substantial, return on investment.

Technology

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 7

BEMC is building a 5 MW battery storage system adjacent to our Zion Hill Substation that should be completed this fall. The system will charge during non-peak hours and release up to 5 MW of energy onto the grid during times of peak demand. This project will play a critical role in expanding the reach of renewable energy and reducing peak demand, which in turn lowers wholesale power costs, and reduces the need for future infrastructure projects.

It will be owned by North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), the trade organization that uses our collective buying power to purchase wholesale power for the 26 electric co-ops in the state. All North Carolina electric cooperatives benefit from the wholesale power cost reduction achieved through any battery storage system NCEMC installs in our network.

Five MW battery storage system underway at Zion Hill Photos courtesy of Randolph Electric Membership Corporation, the first stand-alone battery energy storage across North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

The return of The Columbus County Agricultural Fair

The Columbus County Agricultural Fair roared back to life last October, after a two-year, pandemic-related hiatus, delighting thousands each night of a six-night run. A year-long planning process that involved dozens of volunteers culminated in 60 acres of something for everyone, including rides, food, live music, dance troupes, award-winning produce and recipes, art, local crops and crafts, a livestock show and a demolition derby.

Community

8 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

BEMC proudly participated as a Platinum sponsor of the fair, providing half-price admission and giveaways on Thursday night. We also started a new tradition in 2021 with a pole top rescue demonstration. Mark your calendars for October 2022 and plan to join BEMC at the fair. You’ll be glad you did! Details are available at columbuscountyfair.com

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 9 Highlights MEMBER SERVICES Installed 3,603 new services. Personally handled 50,559 phone calls. Assisted members with more than 44,729 service orders. Achieved an American Customer Satisfaction Index score of 8.9, compared to the national average of 7.7 for electric cooperatives in 2019. TECHNOLOGY Implemented technology platforms for managing new peak energy reduction programs, including Beat the Peak and Bring Your Own Thermostat. Increased cybersecurity readiness through advanced firewall upgrades, backup enhancements, and periodic cybersecurity awareness training for employees. Deployed text messaging capability for members to report outages and request outage status updates.

‘Member’ is a universal word

Tarheel Electric Membership Association (TEMA) is a clearinghouse for North Carolina’s co-ops, and when a co-op needs help, TEMA broadcasts a request for aid. If our weather outlook is positive and we’re in a position to help, our crews are on their way. When our linemen are helping other co-ops, they have the same desire to restore power as quickly as possible as if they are working on our own lines. They take pride in what they do, and their performance shows it. And when we need help, our members benefit from the same sense of urgency in others who come to get the power back on. It’s another way membership makes a difference.

10 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

Community Electric cooperatives across the state and country work together for the benefit of members in a variety of ways, and mutual aid after weather events is one of the most visible to members.

Doubled the size of the Sunset Beach Substation and added an additional transformer to prepare for the homes being built.

SAFETY

Conducted a crisis response table top exercise. Cody Buck placed third in statewide Pole Top Rescue Competition.

Developed, implemented and facilitated Brunswick Community College’s Lineman Program. Had no lost time injuries.

& TRAINING

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 11 Highlights

Upgraded 5.1 miles of conductor and poles from single phase to three phase for reliability and backfeeds during outages in the Whiteville District on and around Dulah Road, Wright Road and Hallsboro Road.

Upgraded 1.5 miles of underground conductor in the St. James area for future growth and backfeeds for reliability.

Upgraded 1 mile of conductor and poles on Maco Road, and upgraded 5 miles of transmission line in the Winnabow area to concrete poles and larger conductor to allow for backfeeds to other power sources. Added 107 miles of line for a total of 7,110 miles of line.

Purchased and distributed 1.54 billion kWh for the membership.

Upgraded 2 miles of conductor and poles from single phase to three phase for growth and reliability in the Supply District on N. Mulberry Road, Mintz Cemetery Road and Sabbath Home Road.

POWER SUPPLY & ENGINEERING

An update on our path toward a Brighter Energy Future

12 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW

Technology In 2021 we announced our plan to preserve reliability and affordability while achieving significant sustainability goals. By using new and existing resources and technologies we’re well on our way to a brighter future.

Central to our efforts is our belief that for energy to be sustainable, it must be affordable. Rest assured, we’ll make sure you’ll always have the power you need. Eliminating the need for extra capacity has the dual benefits of not having to build additional carbon-emitting infrastructure, and saving on wholesale power costs. And that means a future that definitely looks brighter. How we’re getting there A 5 MW battery will be in service at Zion Hill in 2022, and we’re expanding our Connect to Save – Bring Your Own Thermostat program to include a direct installation option. We’ve also developed a residential battery pilot program, where we’re paying a few members with these systems to dispatch their batteries at peak times to see how beneficial the impact is, and if it should be expanded. The members who sign up for our Time-of-Use rate option, and participate in Beat the Peak alerts, continue to contribute significantly to our sustainability goals.

Participants voluntarily reduce their use of electricity during peak usage periods: a few critical hours when the most people are using the most electricity, all at the same time. This helps hold down power costs and keeps rates and bills low for all members.

This program provides 5% loans for energy efficiency projects, up to $8,000 for residential projects and $10,000 for commercial projects.

Terms can be as long as 60 months, and payments are included with your monthly electric bill. If you own your home, and have two years of service with a good payment history, the loan process is simple.

Programs and options

difference

Enrolling allows BEMC to make brief changes to your HVAC setting by three degrees on a limited number of peak demand periods, which helps us control wholesale power costs.

PrePay Power With this option you pay for power in advance of when you need it. There’s no monthly bill or deposit, and you always know how much you’re spending on electricity. It’s easy to check your account status, and add money to your account, any time of day or night. You’ll also receive high energy use email notifications to help you control your usage. that make a

Time-of-Use rate option

Weatherization Loans

Receive a $50 bill credit, and a $4 credit each month when you enroll your smart thermostat.

Beat the Peak alerts

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 13

This option offers you a lower rate for electricity when demand on our system is low, balanced with a higher rate when demand on our system is high. You’ll lower your bill by shifting your energy usage away from peak times, because you’ll pay a lower rate than our standard rate all other times, and a much lower rate from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

CommunityConnect to Save –Bring Your Own Thermostat

14 BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW OurYourBoard2021Board of Directors District 1 Perry Sellers District 8 Calvin Duncan District 7 Dan Strickland District 6 David Gore District 2 Deborah Ahlers BrunswickAt-LargeCounty John Ward District 9 Frederick Tedder District 4 Glenn Humbert District 5 Larry Fowler District 3 Moses C. Herring 2021 Board Officers President – David Gore Vice President – Frederick Tedder Secretary/Treasurer – Larry Fowler Asst. Secretary/Treasurer – Calvin Duncan

BEMC 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW 15 CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET Assets Net utility plant Other property & investments Current Deferredassetscharges Members’Total Equity & Liabilities Members’ DeferredCurrentNoncurrentequityliabilitiesliabilitiescredits Total CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Operating Revenues Operating expenses: Cost of power Other variable operating expenses InterestDepreciationTotaloperating expenses Net operating margins (before allocations) Net non-operating margins Total net margins (before allocations) Patronage allocations Total Net Margins 489,243,089489,243,089355,428,26652,685,93775,821,8115,307,075187,719,950244,690,02244,124,17812,708,939 188,410,635 115,778,62438,181,11419,627,8477,839,994181,427,5796,983,0562,260,0359,243,0915,599,78114,842,872 $$$$$$$$$$ $ $$$$$$$$$$ 3 243,923,954467,836,32969,053,48547,694,13443,223,2127,865,498180,261,18337,645,8106,005,382467,836,329 186,007,920 178,874,71418,650,940113,377,24138,125,7578,720,7767,133,2062,145,0889,278,2945,582,23514,860,529 2020202020212021 $$$$$$$$$$ $ $$$$$$$$$$ Our bond ratings are Fitch A+ and Standard & Poor’s A Financials

P O Box 826, Shallotte, NC 28459 800.842.5871 bemc.org EVERGREEN CERRO GORDO WHITE MARSH CHADBOURN OLD DOCK PIREWAY TABOR CITY ASH CALABASH SHALLOTTE HOLDEN BEACH OAK ISLAND BOLIVIA Brunswick County Columbus County LELAND DIRECTORIALDISTRICTS

4 Methods to Soap a

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country.

The melt and pour method is the easiest way to make soap. You buy a premade soap base, melt it down and then add color, fragrance or oil. Once it hardens, it’s ready to use. This is a great method for absolute beginners, children and those who are hesitant to work with lye (the solution used to make soap from scratch).

Visit TheNerdyFarmWife.com to learn more about the melt and pour and cold process methods of soapmaking.

Milling Also known as French milling or hand milling, this method combines cold process, hot process and melt and pour. Soap is first made using either the cold process or hot process method. Once complete, the soap is grated and then melted as you add additional color, fragrances orMillingingredients.isoften alternated with the term “rebatch ing” because they follow the same process, but they have different meanings. “Milling” indicates creating your own soap starting from the cold process or hot process method. “Rebatching” refers to reshaping an old soap, taking a premade commercial soap and adding your own spin to it, or fixing a soap that may not have gone as planned during the original cold process or hot process attempt.

Make Your Own Unique

friend

The cold process is the most common method for hobbyists because you have complete control over what goes in your soap and how it looks. This is a made-from-scratch process that’s done by mixing fats (oils and butters), sodium hydroxide lye, fragrance or color. Combining fats with lye begins a chemical reaction called saponification which breaks down the fats for them to bind with the lye. After setting the soap mixture aside, saponification and water evaporation can take up to 30 days or more for handmade soap to dry and reach its maximum mild state. Always be in a well-ventilated room and wear protective goggles and gloves when working with lye, which is a strong chemical that can burn skin or cause harm if the fumes are inhaled.

Hot process This method mirrors the cold process almost exactly, but rather than wait for saponification to complete on its own, you significantly speed it up by applying heat. While hot processed soap should also be allowed to set before using, it takes much less time to complete compared to cold processed soap. The downside to this method is not being able to easily design elaborate patterns. To learn more about hot process soapmaking, check out “Hot Process Soap Making” by Heidi Villegas.

Cold process

Soapmaking can be a rewarding hobby to get into for gift-giving or a personal treat. To help get you started, here are four methods to create the soap of your dreams.

Create handcrafted soaps for yourself or gift them to

By Rue Reynold

Melt and pour

No matter which method you choose, research and prepare thoroughly before attempting to make soap. Take each step one at a time and you’ll soon have a shelf (and gift bag) full of amazing handcrafted creations.

carolinacountry.com | 17 Carolina Living

18 | September 2022 Carolina Living

1 jar (24 marinarounces)asauce

1 cup dry French green lentils or brown lentils

Toppings: Fresh basil Parmesan cheese Red pepper flakes Cook lentils according to package directions. Drain then return to pot and add marinara and vegetableStirbroth.welland simmer over low heat about 10 minutes. Cook penne according to package directions. Top cooked pasta with lentil marinara, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.

SchoolPowerRecipesKid-FriendlytoThroughDays

Energy-fueling meals the whole family can enjoy A menu of filling, delicious recipes is just what your family needs to make each school day a successful educational adventure. Satisfying lunch and dinner ideas can give loved ones the fuel they need to take on afternoon lessons and power through homework. (Foil or insulated containers can help keep food warm if packing for a school lunch.)

Culinary.net

1 tablespoon mustard

1 box cauliflower penne

Dill pickle slices, halved 1 egg, beaten Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until beef is thoroughly cooked and onions are tender. Drain. Stir in ketchup and mustard. Separate biscuit dough. On ungreased baking sheet, flatten biscuit dough to form 6-inchSpoonrounds.beefmixture onto one side of flattened dough. Sprinkle with cheese. Top with dill pickle half. Fold dough overWithfilling.fork tines, press dough edges to seal. Cut two slits in top of dough to releaseRepeatsteam.with remaining dough, beef mix ture, cheese and pickles. Brush each turnover with egg wash. Bake 18–22 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Visit Culinary.net and VeggiecraftFarms.com for more family-friendly recipes. —FamilyFeatures.com

1 can flaky biscuits

1 cup shredded cheese

1/2 cup onion, chopped 2 tablespoons ketchup

This family meal makes it easy to incorporate vegetables without sacrificing taste.

Lentil Marinara with Veggie-Based Penne

Cheeseburger Turnovers These cheeseburger turnovers provide the lasting energy little learners need.

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup vegetable broth

IN POWER. SINCE 1920. R&T Power Systems delivering the promise to always keep you out of the dark! #PromiseOfPower RTPowerSystems .com SERVING EASTERN 252-773-0739NC If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for. The blade is full tang and is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion. The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. HUK825-01, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 Stauer ® www.stauer.com *Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. Bad to the Bone • 12" overall length; 6 ¹⁄2" stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives  “The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO -aEXCLUSIVEFREEStauer®8x21CompactBinoculars$99value-withpurchaseofHuntsmanBladeHuntsman Blade $249* Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P 1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: HUK825-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Not actualshownsize. Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary .® Rating of A+ Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79!

Until September 30th Thank you for 1Subject to availability, on a total purchase of 3 or more. 25% discount valid during first appointment only. To qualify for discount offer, initial contact for an appointment must be made and documented on or before 9/30/22 with the purchase then occurring on or before 10/10/22. 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. CarolinaReplacementWindow.com save 25 save% 25 % We’re celebrating our 27th anniversary—we couldn’t have done it without you, and we wanted to give you our BIGGEST new customer DISCOUNT. on windows and patio doors1 Window & Door SALE! 704-626-1644 newBIGGESTcustomerdiscount! with for downpaymentsinterest $0 $ 0 0 % 00% 0 1 1year year 2 Years 27Years 27 Call or scan the code to book your FREE Window & Door Diagnosis

Simple steps to save energy while away

Turning off the appliance completely may sound like a better option, but it could have unintended consequences.

Heading back inside, make sure interior doors are kept open so that conditioned air can better circulate, but close all windows so it doesn’t escape. Furthermore, drawing your blinds or shades before you depart will minimize the heat that makes its way into your home; the more heat enters, the harder your cooling system must work to maintain its target temperature. Closing blinds also increases privacy and could have a security benefit.

In addition to keeping your home cool on these hot summer days, your cooling system also acts as a humidity control device. If it’s off, the high outdoor humidity could leak indoors and impact furniture or clothing, and could lead to indoor mold or mildew growth. Keeping it at 78 to 80 degrees will ensure the system runs enough to dehumidify but not so much that you waste energy and money.

Another way to reduce your cooling system’s energy use is to clean up around the outdoor unit. Do you have any grass clippings, bagged leaves, tarps, etc. nearby? If so, relocate these items farther away to support the unit’s heat exchange capability and allow it to run more smoothly.

By Connor Sill and Jonathan Susser

Dealing with your heating and cooling system is your best initial step, since space heating and air conditioning typically make up about 50% of house hold energy consumption, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. You can give your AC a breather by setting the thermostat to 78 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, remember that the steps you normally take to save energy at home can work the same at a vacation rental property. Just something to keep in mind even though you won’t be paying the power bill.

20 | September 2022 On the House

A:

Q:I’m going on vacation soon and was wondering what steps I can take now to save energy while I’m gone. Any advice?

Yes, there are several actions you can take advantage of before leaving to limit your home’s energy use.

Give Your Home a Break While on Vacation

You may be interested in saving on energy-related expenses while on the road, too. If you’re driving to your destination, keep your tires inflated properly to improve vehicle effi ciency and safety. When cooling off in the car at highway speeds, it’s more effective to use your AC than to roll down your windows, which can increase air resistance, or drag. And using the recirculate function in the summer can help your car AC run more efficiently, sending precooled air back through the system versus cooling hot, outside air.

Connor Sill is a marketing and communications intern and Jonathan Susser is a content developer for Advanced Energy in Raleigh.

Sticking with safety and security, hold off on having any dishwasher and washer/dryer cycles run while you’re away. You may save yourself time by not coming back to dirty dishes or laundry, but you also could end up returning to something much worse, such as a bad water leak. Turning off your well pump or water valve can add to peace of mind, too. Also, consider using motion detection or timer-based lights and having a friend pick up any packages, mail or leftout trash bins to make it less obvious that you’re not home.

Stiltz is one of the world’s leading home manufacturers,elevatorsoyou’ll be in good hands. Your homelift will be installed and maintained by Stiltz trained professionals — expert technicians who truly care about your freedom, mobility and health. home neighborhood with a Stiltz Homelift.

Stairlifts were introduced in the 1920s, and not much has changed since. A stairlift has one use: to move you (and only you) between floors, slowly. And it fits in only one place: your staircase. Finally, a stairlift won’t keep up with you as your mobility needs change over time. For example, a stairlift can’t carry a walker or wheelchair.

HOMELIFT SPECIALISTS

– Mr. James, Roanoke VA

THE MODERN SOLUTION

IT’S NEVER TOO SOON Some Stiltz customers need a homelift immediately. But others want to “future-proof” their homes for the day when the stairs become a challenge.

A Stiltz Homelift is an extra pair of hands. Move laundry, suitcases, books, groceries, vacuum cleaners — even the family pet — up and down between floors with our dual remote controls.

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WHY LIMIT YOURSELF?

Southern Distilling Company

Despite my slight fear of heights, I've found ways to overcome it over the years on precarious hikes, ziplines, and on hang gliding and paragliding trips. But ballooning? Well, that intimidated me. No buckled straps, no helmets, and I wouldn’t be in control.

Pilot Patrick Grogan (Tree Top Flyer Ballooning, 704-450-4571) has been ballooning for more than 20 years. He owns the Pat O’Lantern and a neon, rainbow-swirled balloon named Neon Dreamz. A typical hour-long flight covers up to 15 miles while the balloon flies at various altitudes to catch the steering wind currents. It’s basically sailing, but in the air instead of on the sea. As the flight was nearing its end, Pat and his chase team pinpointed possible landing sites among the farm fields and rural roads below. He describes it as an adult game of Leapfrog — once the balloon heads down, the team positions in front, then the balloon flies toward and over them, and the chase resumes to the next road or field fit for landing until we are finally on terra firma in a cow pasture. After the flight, Pat and the other pilots continue a tradition that began in 1783 after the first successful hot air balloon flight in Paris: a champagne toast with pilot and passengers. Imagine, Pat quips, that peasants back then thought “the balloon was a demon because it spewed a foul odor and smoke.”

22 | September 2022 Carolina Adventures

ground

But the view of Iredell County spanning Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock from about 1,000 feet up was worth the short bit of anxiety I felt as I held tightly to the wicker basket’s edge. The colors of the foothills below as the sun slowly set in the pale sky were breathtaking from my perch beneath the hot air balloon (called Pat O’Lantern), a grinning orange pumpkin floating above the fields outside of Statesville.

What would those peasants think today when sighting a colorful array of balloons floating across the countryside? Magic, I imagine. Renee C. Gannon is the senior associate editor of Carolina Country. Digital Extra Watch clips of Renee’s hot air balloon flight at carolinacountry.com/extras. taste of County the and above the by Renee Gannon

Fort Dobbs Historic Site

Up, Up and Away Get a

Iredell

Ballooning Statesville may be best known as the Balloon Capital of the East, where 20-plus balloon pilots call home, and flights can lift off 365 days a year — a tradition dating back to 1969 when the first rose from a local field. The annual Carolina BalloonFest (carolinaballoonfest.com), held this October 14–16, celebrates the area’s long-standing hot air tradition. Just after sunrise and about two hours before sunset are ideal for flight due to the stable winds found during those times. My flight window began around 3 p.m., when 25 balloons started inflating outside of Statesville. It takes about 30 minutes to inflate the “envelope,” or balloon, using propane burners that heat the air to provide lift. One by one, pilots and passengers climbed into baskets and began the ascent under a multitude of colors and designs.

on

Historic crossroads Statesville, located in the western Piedmont, has served as a crossroads for settlers and travelers for more than 250 years. Trading routes and wagon trails later became today’s I-77 and I-40 interchange. In 1756, Fort Dobbs rose in a field of tall grass in Iredell County to defend western North Carolina and its settlers. The fort played a key role in the Anglo-Cherokee War in February 1760. Today, the Fort Dobbs Historic Site (fortdobbs.org) stands again to offer visitors a glimpse of war and peace. The settlers also brought distilling knowledge. By 1908, more than 400 distilleries were operating in the area, but various temperance movements and prohibition quieted the operations until just recently. One local distillery, Southern Distilling (southerndistillingcompany.com), showcases past and present distilling techniques to produce more than 24,000 barrels of spirits a year. The town’s revitalized downtown district is also worth a prolonged visit, offering a plethora of local galleries, dining, breweries and shopping options (visitstatesville.com).

trees Story and photos

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Spinach can be grown in either the spring or fall in North Carolina, but since it bolts in hot weather, the best time to plant is now — as summer begrudgingly gives way to autumn, when the warm soil encourages growth, while the coming cool will ensure an extended harvest of tasty leaves.

Fall for Spinach Plant now for an extended harvest Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

For backyard growers fond of slinging seeds— which, by the way, are cheaper than transplants— liberally sow the plants-to-be a half inch deep in rows about a foot apart. When seedlings start appearing, thin the newbie plants to about six inches apart. Use scissors to do the deed because pulling out young plants could disturb the fragile roots of ones left behind.

Since spinach is a fast grower, it needs about an inch of water a week to develop properly, so have the hose handy if Mother Nature doesn’t oblige. Also, mulch will help preserve ground moisture as well as discourage weeds.

Garden To-Do’s for September Proud of your garden? Enjoy a little friendly competition? Consider combining these two pleasures by entering some of your best botanical efforts at the NC State Fair’s Flower and Garden Exhibits’ contests in Raleigh. The Fair will be here before you know it (October 13–23), so look over all your garden ornamentals and produce for possible contenders and start babying them into blue ribbon shape. This includes fruits, vegetables, houseplants, cut flowers and floral arrangements. Visit ncstatefair.org if you want to check out the Flower and Garden competition categories and rules.

F As perennials and woody ornamentals are preparing to slip into their winter dormancy period, don’t encourage new growth that probably won’t have a chance to harden off before the first frosts bite. So, save the fertilizing chores for next spring, and resist the urge to prune trees and shrubs. F Houseplants have had their fun outside this year, and now is the time to bring them indoors before the chill of late fall arrives. During this transition, carefully check each plant for insects and especially insect eggs, which could hatch in balmy room temperatures and cause problems for your tucked away pretties.

When the spinach leaves reach pickin’ size (about five inches long) go for the older, outer ones first. As autumn strengthens, frost will start to creep into the spinach patch, but this won’t be an immediate concern because these hardy plants can withstand temperatures down into the lower 20s. In fact, a light dusting of frost will actually sweeten the leaves just a bit. As far as which spinach to try, Bloomsdale Long Standing has been a garden standard for years, but for me, its deep crinkles and crannies make this selection tough to wash clean and too friendly for hiding bugs. Instead, I opt for cultivars having smoother leaves, with Teton, Seaside or Space being my usual go-to picks.

L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Contact L.A. at lajackson1@gmail.com. First harvest the older, outer leaves of spinach when they are about five inches long.

26 | September 2022 Carolina Gardens

Don’t want to keep watching your calendar? A single application at planting time of time-release fertilizer high in nitrogen will also work. Spinach transplants can easily be found now in garden centers and will obviously move up the date of your beginning harvest. In the higher elevations of our state, at this time of year, they are probably the best way to get in a decent crop before hard freezes come calling.

Like all leafy veggies, spinach thrives on nitrogen. Summer plantings have probably sucked much of the nitrogen from the garden’s soil, so after reworking a sunny growing site, refurbish it further with a generous jolt of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 fertilizer followed up with an additional, light dusting of these nutrient nuggets in about a month.

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1 bag (12 ounces) broccoli slaw, large pieces of broccoli cut small 2 stalks celery, cut into ¼-inch pieces

Dressing ¾ cup vegetable oil (we used sunflower) ¹/₃ cup rice vinegar ¼ cup sugar or honey

½ cup toasted sunflower seeds ½ cup sesame sticks Break up noodles and put in bottom of a large bowl. Mix together remaining salad ingredients. Combine all dressing ingredients and toss with salad. Pour over 24Covernoodles.andrefrigeratehours.Atservingtime, toss, garnish and enjoy!

Asian Ramen Salad

Salad

Yield: 8–12 servings Digital Extra We take food seriously. Visit carolinacountry.com/recipes to search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient, with a new recipe featured every week!

Yield: Serves 4 CarolinaMarinatedKitchen

1 bunch scallions, cut into ½-inch pieces

30 | September 2022

With gingersnap crumble

Dice ¼ cup of the sliced mango and set aside. Purée remaining mango in processor with marmalade and juice. Line up four dessert bowls (approximately 6 ounces each) and drizzle a tablespoon of purée mixture in bottom of each. Divide crumbs in dishes over drizzle, saving a bit for garnish. Set aside ½ cup of the whipped cream and fold remaining cream together with purée. Spoon purée-cream mixture over crumbs. Top each with 1 tablespoon of diced mango. Put a dollop of the saved whipped cream on top. Garnish with crumbs and orange zest.

Traditionally, a “fool” is an English dessert of puréed fruit folded into custard. Take a shortcut and throw together our 10-minute contemporary version that uses whipped cream instead of the more labor-intensive custard. Nibble at this light dessert alongside our crispy fried shrimp toast and Asian salad. Also fun for little chefs to make!

4 large ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced (1 cup puréed) 2 heaping tablespoons orange marmalade Juice of half an orange Zest of half an orange

Pinch salt

Chill at least an hour until ready to serve.

This cold salad offers a variety of textures, making a unique side dish. Feeding a crowd or in the mood for leftovers? The size of this recipe fits the bill! Plan to create a day ahead so the ramen has time to soak in the savory dressing.

Garnish ½ cup salted peanuts

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Mango Marmalade Fool

1 bag (8 ounces) frozen shelled edamame, cooked per instructions

2 teaspoons sesame oil 3–4 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 slice fresh ginger (about an inch), grated 1 package ramen noodle seasoning

1 box (10 gingersnapounces)cookies

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 packages (3 ounces) ramen (vegetablenoodlesorchicken)

Roughly crumble the cookies in zippered bag using rolling pin or can (about 2 cups crumbs) and set aside. Whip the cream to medium peak stage.

1 bag (8 ounces) snow peas, blanched and drained

Carolina Kitchen Beef With Black Pepper

In another saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat and add garlic, ginger, onion, tomato, black pepper and salt and cook until onions are tender. Next add the prepared beef and cook for another 5 minutes before serving.

In a saucepan, combine beef, black pepper, turmeric, salt and water and sauté over medium heat until beef is cooked. There should be very little gravy. Remove from heat.

*We used sliced Hawaiian bread for fun and a bit of sweetness.

2 teaspoons sesame oil

Combine breadcrumbs with sesame seeds and set aside. Combine remaining ingredients (except bread and oil) in processor. Pulse into a smooth paste. Divide paste among the 6 slices of bread and spread evenly to edges. Sprinkle with crumb mixture and lightly press into paste. Cut each piece diagonally into 4 triangles.Addabout ¹/₈-inch oil into a cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Gently place pieces of toast into hot oil, crumb side down. Fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gently turn with spatula and fry the other side for about 1 minute. Place on paper towels to drain. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately alongside warmed pepper jelly, duck sauce or sweet chili pepper sauce.

1 teaspoon sugar

Yield: about 7–8 servings Recipe courtesy of Champa Codipilly of West End, a member of Pee Dee Electric.

1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs

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. From Your Kitchen

Crispy Fried Sesame Shrimp Toast (pictured above)

If you like to add shrimp toast to your Chinese take-out order, it probably never crossed your mind to make it. But this crispy appetizer is not hard to make — you can even prepare the paste, freeze and fry up a fresh batch anytime the notion strikes you.

¼ cup toasted sesame seeds ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (washed and dried)

1 egg white 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari 4–5 scallions, chopped 1 teaspoon cornstarch 3 cloves garlic, sliced ¼ cup fresh cilantro, loosely packed, plus extra for garnish

2 pounds beef cut into 2-inch strips  2 teaspoons ground black pepper ½ teaspoon turmeric Salt to taste ¼ cup water 2 tablespoons oil (we used olive oil) 4 cloves choppedgarlic, 1 slice of ginger, about an inch, chopped 1 medium onion, sliced 1 medium tomato, sliced  ½ teaspoon black Saltpepperto taste 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and cut into lengthwise strips

2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger

This simple and delicious beef dish from Sri Lanka does not call for the trademark curry powder and spices used in most Sri Lankan dishes. To manage heat, this recipe uses a seeded jalapeño pepper instead of the traditional hot red chilies. You can also adjust the black pepper. Typically served with rice or bread, it can be served with naan as well.

Pinch of salt 6 slices white bread* Vegetable oil for frying Pepper jelly, duck sauce or sweet chili pepper sauce (optional for serving)

Yield: Makes 24 pieces 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

Send Us Your Recipes

carolinacountry.com | 31

Homeplace Sunset

The July “Where Is This” photo by Haywood EMC member Donna Keener features two curious-looking fiberglass steer by the roadside. They serve as the welcome committee to Puncheon Camp Creek Ranch, located at the intersection of Old Clear Creek and Rhodes Roads near Edneyville in Henderson County. Ranch owner Boyd “Bub” Hyder started creating this private, western-themed “town” in 1992. Its Main Street includes a general store, chapel, gas station, stable, bank, city hall, a hotel and saloon, as well as other buildings and fiberglass oddities. Several readers recognized these two heifer greeters as a cool part of their hikes at nearby Bearwallow Mountain. The winning entry chosen at random from more than 200 correct submissions came from Sarah Proctor of Shelby, a Rutherford EMC member. at carolinacountry.com/potw

A member of Tri-County EMC “A beautiful sunset at my homeplace with the old barn that was loaded with memories of work and play growing up. Lots of adventure existed for free.”

Photo by Betty Rose, Mount Olive

July’s answer carolina creators See more photos

Send your answer by September 15, 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 Sign up for email updates to guess next month’s “Where Is This” ahead of print publication: carolinacountry.com/register Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified. The winner, chosen at random and announced in our November issue, will receive $25. where in Carolina Country is this ?

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Summer 2023 - Washington, D.C.

Each summer BEMC sends two rising Juniors or Seniors to Washington, D.C., where they join more than 1,800 exceptional high school students from across the country on the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. During their trip the students visit monuments and tour museums, meet with federally elected officials, and learn about our nation’s history, the cooperative business model, and the importance of civic engagement. Sophomores and Juniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 are encouraged to apply at bemc.org/electric-cooperative-youth-tour

bemc.org/community-grants

Electric Cooperative Youth Tour

College Scholarships

Brunswick Electric awards two scholarships each year, $5,000 each, to two high school seniors, one from Brunswick County and one from the Columbus County area. The scholarship awards are based on a combination of academic achievement, participation in community or school-related activities, SAT/ACT scores, letters of reference, and a 1,500-word essay. Completed applications must be submitted through the student’s guidance counselor by March 15. For more information visit bemc.org/scholarship-highway.

Sophomores & Juniors - Apply December 1 - January 15

Seniors - Apply December 15 - March 15

Brunswick Electric has been providing grants of up to $2,500 each to community groups and non-profit organizations that make a difference in the lives of our members since 2003. Projects should fall into the areas of family services, civic and community programs, cultural and arts programs, emergency services, and economic development. This year, 32 local organizations received a total of $37,750, bringing the amount of grants awarded since the program’s inception to $681,250. For more information and to apply, visit

BEMC Community Grants

Apply December 1 - February 15

Making a difference in the community