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 Roanoke Electric offers you safety preparation tips for before the storm —pages 15–18 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





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
THIS MONTH: Native American Artifacts
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.
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.
Thank you so much!
Jan Risk, a member of Tideland EMC
Deadline is Nov. 15, 2022.
Send Your Photos!
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.
Us
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.
(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.
Visit: carolinacountry.com/photocontest NCVisit Town Creek Indian Mound 2 | September 2022
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).





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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.
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.
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.
Advancing Burn Care in North Carolina and Beyond By Booker T. King, M.D.
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.
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.
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.
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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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
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.”
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.
—Olivia Dela Cruz, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives
“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.
Joe Brannan spoke during the Electrification 2022 opening session.
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.”
6 | September 2022 more power

Bright Ideas grants are offered by electric cooperatives in North Carolina to enhance student success and bring creative learning to life.
carolinacountry.com | 7 More Power
“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.”
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.
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.
—Math teacher Cecelia Hampton (right), pictured with fellow math teacher Shannon Osborne
Alleghany Teacher’s ‘Bright Ideas’ Take Students on Problem-Solving Adventures
“I like to think of Blue Ridge Energy and the Bright Ideas program as spreading ‘glitter’ far and wide across our school.”
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.
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.
Cecelia Hampton and her students with “Whiteboard World,” her 2019 Bright Ideas Grant winner.
“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.”
—Lindsey Davis, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives
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.


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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

| 11
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
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.”
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.
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
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.
“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.”
“The perspective of professional archaeologists is steward ship; for collectors it’s ownership,” Randy says. “The main question is, who owns the past?”
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
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,
“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.”
—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
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.
Coming Home to Make Meaningful Change
Megan Hiner is providing mental health services in northeastern NC
“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.
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.”
Megan, please meet all o’ my friends across rural NC. All o’ my friends across rural NC, please meet Megan.
“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.”
Jacob Brooks has personally sought therapy in the past. He's battled depression and anxiety. He wishes all y’all well.
By Jacob Brooks
Where We Come From 12 | September 2022
“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.”
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.

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From cost savings and convenience to lower emissions and a great driving experience, electric vehicles have something for everyone.
North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are accelerating access to the benefits of driving electric with an expanding network of more than 100 charging ports in destinations from the mountains to the coast. See how driving electric can power your adventures at NCDriveElectric.com.
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Caring for vulnerable family members If you have older family members or those with special needs, make sure they have enough medication and supplies for a few days. If they don’t live with you, arrange for a neighbor to check in on them. If a severe weather event is expected, consider having your relative stay with you if feasible, otherwise, call them daily. If you have an infant or young children, make certain that you have ample formula, diapers, medication and other supplies on hand to weather an outage lasting several days or more.
è Assemble a grab-and-go disaster kit. Include items like nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person, per day), diapers, batteries, flashlights, prescription medications, first-aid kit, batterypowered radio and phone chargers. è Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends (i.e., via text, social media, third party, etc.).
At Roanoke Electric, we care about your safety. Planning for an emergency situation today can give you more confidence to deal with severe weather and potential outages in the future.
Fill your car with gas. Have some extra cash available; during a power outage, electronic card readers and cash machines may not work. Store important documents such as birth certificates, property deeds, etc., in a safe place away from home (for example, a bank safe deposit box).
è Keep neighbors and coworkers apprised of your emergency plans.
We recommend starting with the basics. Here are general guidelines recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency:
è
è Bring pets indoors at the first sign of a storm or other emergency. Pets can become disoriented and frightened during severe weather and may wander off during an emergency.
è Cr eate an emergency kit for pets (include shelf-safe food, bottled water, medications and other supplies).
è
The Power of Preparation
è Microchip your pet and ensure the contact information is up to date.
Keeping four-legged family members safe
Roanoke Electric Cooperative ROANOKE ELECTRIC Flashes Flashes Roanoke Electric Cooperative SEPTEMBER 2022 SEPT1522
With severe weather events occurring more frequently, now more than ever, it makes sense to be prepared. During a prolonged power outage or other emergency, this means having enough food, water and supplies to last at least a few days.
è
è Store pet medical records on a USB drive or in an easy-to-remember location.
For more information about storm prep, please roanokeelectric.com.visit
By Glenn Brown, coordinator of Safety and Loss Control
In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, I want to remind members of our community about the power of preparation. While you don’t have to achieve a “doomsday prepper” level of preparedness, there are several practical steps you can take to keep you and your family safe. Even at a modest level, preparation can help reduce stress and anxiety, and lessen the impact of an emergency event.
è Organize your supplies so they are together in an easily accessible location that family members know about.
For families with pets, having a plan in place in the event of a prolonged outage or an emergency will help reduce worry and stress especially if you need to make a decision during an emergency.



a journey with John to find the perfect bed and breakfast – including going to B&B school.
What the Fritzes did do over the next eight years was come up with an eight-point marketing plan – consisting of the eight things that were most important to them. “After a year of doing market research and attending B&B school, our accountant said that it was time to start our search,” John said. “So I hopped on the internet.”
A Local Hidden Gem
Learning about B&B life
JerniganSPOTLIGHTHouse Bed & Breakfast:
John and Dee Fritz decided to run their first bed and breakfast, many didn’t think that the Jernigan House Bed & Breakfast was the perfect fit.
Thirty-three years later, the idea that resulted from John’s confusion standing in a major hotel unable to find his room number, birthed something unique for those traveling for business.“Working for Honeywell at that time, I traveled a lot,” John recalled. “Standing in confusion, it was in that moment where it finally clicked. I said to myself, there has got to be something better for the business
Finding HouseJerniganthe
16 SEPTEMBER 2022 Roanoke Electric Cooperative MEMBER
“We interviewed everyone in town including the CEO of the hospital at that time,” Dee explained. “We thought about all the nurses and doctors coming into town that needed a place to stay. We knew the need was here.” After making four trips back to Ahoskie with their eightpoint plan, the Fritzes purchased the Jernigan House in 1998.
“Most people who think of bed and breakfasts locations, they think of attractions and destinations for tourists,” Dee said. “That’s not what we were looking for. We wanted to cater to the business traveler. And so we did nothing that we learned while in that course.”
“We had looked at a few places and we found this building on the internet,” John stated. “The only had a picture of the front of this house online and we just happened to be traveling to see our son and his family in Atlanta and I said we may as well come and take a look at the house in Ahoskie. It was on our way.”
DeeofagainstideathrilledandofDee,hometime,breakfaststhantherePennsylvaniaLivingtraveler.”inwhereweremore200bedandattheherushedtohiswife,withtheideapurchasingabedbreakfast.Whileshewasn’tabouttheinitially,andtheadvicetheiraccountant,agreedtogoon
While an attractive place to the residents that call it home, Ahoskie isn’t much of a destination for tourism. “People in Ahoskie would never imagine in a million years that a bed and breakfast would ever succeed in Ahoskie,” John said.
The rememberedcouple pulling into town that December and parking in the front yard of the property. When they came in, they couldn’t help but notice the red walls that were prevalent throughout the home except for the yellowJohnkitchen.recalls that just as he stood in the middle of the courtyard when he got the idea, he knew Ahoskie was the place after standing on the top porch in the back.
Ahoskie is a town known for its warm greetings and quiet, small-town hospitality. So when
“There were 15 to 20 retired couples when the Fritzes started B&B school and each day we went back, there were less and less couples still remaining,” laughed John. What made them keep coming back? John attributed it to his distinct memory in the hotel courtyard.
Built in 1917 as a wedding gift for Robert & Jesse Jernigan, the building has been meticulously restored to maintain its architectural authenticity and “Casual Elegance”. Aside from
Dee admitted that going from setting up remote offices for Honeywell, to having 10 people standing in her kitchen waiting for breakfast was a daunting idea. However, the dynamic shift worked out better than she anticipated the day she drove to Ahoskie.

—Roanoke Electric Co-op
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Christophermember-ownerR.MartinofNorthamptonCounty
For more information about the Jernigan House, contact the Fritzes at (252) 209-5455.
“We’ve made a lot of good friends over the years,” John stated. “But after 25 years, we know it’s time for the next chapter of our lives. This isn’t just a part of your life, it is your life and we’ve loved it for over two decades. We will miss the interaction with our guests turned friends, and we hope to have someone special take over and continue this great operation.”
SEPTEMBER 2022 17
“We started off with only two rooms,” Dee stated. “I can remember having contractors come here Monday through Friday every day at 8 a.m. to start renovations. We even had some of the guests to help us with some of the renovations because they were just as excited as we were. All our thealsoprocessthroughofanfeltbeenexceptcontractorsonehavelocal.Itlikewehadentiregroupfolksgoingthiswithus.”TheFritzesrecollectedmajorinterest shown by the community in seeing the bed and breakfast operation in the small town. “When we had our grand opening in May 1999, more than 500 people showed up to walk through the doors that Sunday,” Dee said. “We never expected that level of interest from the community.”Today,the Jernigan House offers five elegant guest rooms/suites in a stately colonial revival style home known as a “Southern Colonial”. There is also a new common area that has been renovated to provide shade and comfort to enjoy a casual or business conversation in the open air.
“It has been such a joy to see prom attendees and their dates, and brides and grooms come and make lifelong memories,” Dee expressed. “Nothing beats seeing a bride coming down those steps and there’s not a dry eye in the building.”Whilethe Fritzes have enjoyed providing the southern hospitality many have grown to expect and love, they have decided to sell the Jernigan House.
A Community Pillar As the only bed and breakfast in Ahoskie for more than 30 years, the Jernigan House is a historic pillar in the town; offering a place to stay to everyone from out-of-towners on business to line workers needing a place to stay during major storm restoration efforts. “During times of natural disaster that sometimes knocked out power to thousands of member-owners, the Jernigan House has helped us accommodate additional help from sister co-op crews,” said Marshall Cherry, Roanoke Electric Cooperative’s president and CEO. “I cannot express enough how much of a vital resource it has
theweddingThere’sgardenthroughouttakingbefamiliesteenspromDuringbeen.”season,andtheircanalsoobservedphotosthearea.evenawallinstatelyhome with all the weddings that have been hosted at the Jernigan House.
“Locals can feel free to stop by to eat their lunch or just enjoy the private garden in the back,” Dee said.
Roanoke Electric Cooperative the Jernigans, the Fritzes are the only other family to live in the historic home.
“I’m very excited about all the co-op’s programs and services. You all seem to be ahead of the curve with programs like the EV Program and the solar and broadband initiatives. I hope that you all can continue to expand on programs like these.”
“
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Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month: Our faucets and appliances use a lot of hot water. You can lower your water heating costs by using less hot water in your home. Water heating accounts for a large portion of home energy bills.
18 SEPTEMBER 2022 Roanoke Electric Cooperative Published monthly for the member-owners of Roanoke Electric Cooperative P.O. Drawer 1326, Ahoskie, NC 27910 Office: 252-209-2236 or 1-800-433-2236 For outages call: 1-800-358-9437 For online bill payment: roanokeelectric.com Statement of Nondiscrimination: Roanoke Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Visit us at roanokeelectric.com BOARD OF DIRECTORS Allen Speller Chairman Robert “Nat” Riddick Vice Chairman Delores Amason Secretary-Treasurer Kenneth Jernigan Asst. Secretary-Treasurer Marva CynthiaDarnellColumbusCarolynBondBradleyJeffersLeeVaughan Editor: Brittany Tann President and CEO: Marshall Cherry ROANOKE ELECTRIC Flashes Flashes To report outages: è Call 1-800-358-9437 è Text “OUTAGE” to 352667. To make a payment: è Use our automated system at 252-209-2236. è Download our mobile app by texting “Roanoke” to 252-479-7929. è Text “PAY” to 352667. Holiday closing Our offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 5, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. You’re Invited! Co-op to Host Energy Solutions Expo, Oct. 7 Come experience the latest energy-saving technologies at Roanoke Electric Cooperative’s second annual Energy Solutions Expo on Oct. 7 at the Ahoskie Amphitheater. “This special event is one of the ways the co-op is addressing the pocketbook issues of great concern to many in our community,” said Roanoke Electric Co-op President & CEO Marshall Cherry. “It will present opportunities for us to learn about the latest innovative technologies that can help all of us save money and energy.” Event highlights will include guest appearances from elected officials and a technology showcase, featuring everything from electric vehicles to an array of smart energy-efficiency devices for the home.
Save the Date: Power Hour Webinar Roanoke Electric Cooperative will continue its Power Hour webinar series this fall. The hour-long virtual event will take place on Sept. 14. Please visit our website and social media platforms for details.
Source: Dept. of Energy
The outdoor expo, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., is free and open to the public.


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Give Your Home a Break While on Vacation
By Connor Sill and Jonathan Susser
20 | September 2022 On the House
A:
Yes, there are several actions you can take advantage of before leaving to limit your home’s energy use.
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.
Simple steps to save energy while away
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.
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.
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.
Connor Sill is a marketing and communications intern and Jonathan Susser is a content developer for Advanced Energy in Raleigh.
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?
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.
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.
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.

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Iredell
ground
Southern Distilling Company
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.”
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.
Up, Up and Away Get a
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
trees Story and photos
Fort Dobbs Historic Site
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
22 | September 2022 Carolina Adventures
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).
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.



UpcountrySC.com SAVORSEASONSTHE in SouthUpcountryCarolina Every season is the best season to explore the many treasures in the Upcountry. October 7-9 FESTIVAL Ava Gardner Museum 325 E Market St., Smith eld, NC 27577 919-934-5830 avagardner.org AvaGardner MAKE IT YOUR NATURE The outdoors is really a reflection of you. It’s up to all of us to do our part to help preserve the natural beauty of our state. Join us in following the 7 Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles, so our spaces can remain beautiful and enjoyable for years to come. PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE STICK TO TRAILS AND OVERNIGHT RIGHT TRASH YOUR TRASH LEAVE IT AS YOU FIND IT BE CAREFUL WITH FIRE KEEP WILDLIFE WILD SHARE OUR TRAILS













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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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.


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1 box (10 gingersnapounces)cookies
Pinch salt
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.
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.
Yield: Serves 4 CarolinaMarinatedKitchen
Mango Marmalade Fool
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
Asian Ramen Salad
1 bag (12 ounces) broccoli slaw, large pieces of broccoli cut small 2 stalks celery, cut into ¼-inch pieces
2 packages (3 ounces) ramen (vegetablenoodlesorchicken)
Garnish ½ cup salted peanuts
Salad
Dressing ¾ cup vegetable oil (we used sunflower) ¹/₃ cup rice vinegar ¼ cup sugar or honey
Chill at least an hour until ready to serve.
1 tablespoon soy sauce
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!
With gingersnap crumble
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!
30 | September 2022
1 bunch scallions, cut into ½-inch pieces
1 bag (8 ounces) snow peas, blanched and drained
1 cup heavy whipping cream
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.
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


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
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
Crispy Fried Sesame Shrimp Toast (pictured above)
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.
2 teaspoons sesame oil
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.
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.
*We used sliced Hawaiian bread for fun and a bit of sweetness.
Yield: about 7–8 servings Recipe courtesy of Champa Codipilly of West End, a member of Pee Dee Electric.
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
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.
1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
carolinacountry.com | 31
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.
Carolina Kitchen Beef With Black Pepper
1 teaspoon sugar


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 ?
July’s answer carolina creators See more photos
Photo by Betty Rose, Mount Olive
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
Homeplace Sunset
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.”



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