2023-02-PEMC

Peace of mind for emergency home repairs

For many patients with macular degeneration and other visionrelated conditions, the loss of central visual detail also signals the end to one of the last bastions of independence - driving. A Wilmington optometrist, Dr. Edward Paul, is using miniaturized telescopes which are mounted in glasses to help people who have lost vision from macular degeneration and other eye conditions.

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

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

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

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

familiar with the condition. As many as 25% of those over the age of 50 have some degree of macular degeneration. The macula is only one small part of the retina, however it is the most sensitive and gives us sharp central vision. When it degenerates, macular degeneration leaves a blind spot right in the center of

to recognize faces, read a book, or pass the driver’s vision test.

Nine out of 10 people who have macular degeneration have the dry form. New research suggests vitamins can help. The British medical journal BMC Ophthalmology recently reported that

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

Doreen Jenkins, 72, of Pocahontas,

friend. She wanted to keep her Iowa drivers license and was prescribed bioptic tele-

lights farther away. Dr. Paul also prescribed microscope glasses for reading newspapers and menus in restaurants.

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

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

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

TOZAL Comprehensive Eye Health Formula is now available by prescription from eye doctors.

risk factor for developing the disease, heredity, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure have also

degeneration accounts for 90% of new legal blindness in the US. While there is currently no cure, promising research is being done on many fronts. “My job

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

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

www.LowVisionNC.com (910) 208-9011

Dr. Edward Paul & Dr. Casey Krug Offices located in Wilmington, Asheville, and Charlotte

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800)

Volume 55, No. 2

Published monthly by

3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

Warren Kessler Publications Director Scott Gates, CCC Editor

Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor Rue Reynold Editorial Assistant Tara Verna Creative Services Associate Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com

Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to 1 million homes and businesses. The 26 electric cooperatives are each member-owned, notfor-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.

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Healthcare advocates are training the next generation of rural doctors.

Stephen Hayes honors Black history through sculpture.

Samantha Gulledge, a 2022 Graduate of Pfeiffer University’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, is among those students who trained and are training to make a difference meeting the healthcare needs of rural communities. Learn more about these efforts on page 8.

Photo courtesy of Pfeiffer University.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Home Improvement Wins

We’ve run DIY fails from readers in the past, but we want some success stories! Share photos and stories from home improvement projects that went as (or better than) expected. See page 2 for details

From Our Readers

‘Bonus Heat’ Questioned

In your January 2023 issue, there is quite the error in the From Our Readers with respect to kitchen oven heat. Although true that opening an oven after cooking can add heat to a home in the winter, it is not true that the heat is wasted by keeping the oven closed. The heat in the oven, after cooking, will radiate its heat in all directions and this heat will be distributed out into the house. Of course, the heat gain to the house will be slower in keeping the oven door closed, but the heat will certainly not be wasted. Please publish a correction to this article as your readership is being misinformed.

James Gobbel, Hayesville A member of Blue Ridge Mountain EMC

Editor’s note: We received a few comments about this. Although the title we gave the letter (“Bonus Heat”) was misleading — the heat in the oven would be “bonus” whether the door is opened or not — we checked in with Jonathan Coulter, senior consultant at Advanced Energy about the physics of it: “I absolutely agree with Mr. Gobbel and the reader letter from your January issue. For me it comes down to instant gratification on whether to leave the oven door open or not. If I’m in the kitchen and want the additional warmth, I will open the oven door after turning it off. But, if I have other things going on and leave the kitchen, I will keep the oven door closed after use (and the leftover heat will dissipate into the home slowly).”

THIS MONTH: Rural Healthcare

A lack of access to healthcare, even for primary care physicians, is a reality in many rural counties across the state. While electric cooperatives are supporting efforts to change that through community grants and loans —  funding equipment for first responders and even upgrades for new and existing clinics — advocates are also working to inspire the next generation of rural healthcare practitioners. Read more on page 8. You can also find event listings from around the state on our Carolina Calendar (page 24), back by popular demand as of last month.

—Scott Gates, editor

Soup Servings

How much does the recipe for Rotisserie Chicken French Onion Soup (January 2023, page 22) make? It’s important to know the quantity!

Judith B. via carolinacountry.com

Editor’s note: Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Judith! The recipe serves 6 to 8. You can find the updated version, along with our archives of more than 1,000 recipes, at carolinacountry.com/recipes

Home Improvement Wins

Home improvement projects can sometimes take unexpected turns — but

Rules

Deadline: March 15, 2023

One entry per household

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

Include your name, electric co-op, mailing address and email address or phone number with your entry. Text should not exceed 200 words. We retain reprint and online rights. Payment will be limited to those entries appearing in print, not entries featured solely on carolinacountry.com

Send to Online: carolinacountry.com/DIY-success No emails, please.

Mail: Carolina Country — Home Improvement Wins 3400 Sumner Blvd. Raleigh, NC 27616

If you would like us to return your photo print, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. (We will not return others.)

NC Co-op Assets Pass the Test During Winter Storm

By Amadou Fall

If you’ve been following along in Carolina Country in recent years, you likely have a sense that North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are working together to prepare for a future where we continue our commitment to providing reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost, while also advancing the pursuit of responsible sustainability goals.

Much of the grid innovation you read about in the magazine, and also is discussed by your local electric co-op, plays a part in this transition. And on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all of those assets were put to the test. Winter storm Elliott walloped states from Colorado to the East Coast with extreme temperatures, and in some cases wind and blizzard-like conditions. A sudden drop in temperature comes with a sharp and increased demand for electricity as heaters work to keep folks comfortable. As a result, ahead of the storm North Carolina’s electric cooperatives prepared for response to high loads and educated members about the need to conserve electricity. North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), which provides power to 25 electric cooperatives in North Carolina, began communicating proactively about the storm within the co-op network and with Duke Energy, which provides a portion of our power.

From the electric cooperative perspective, the new grid technologies performed as expected in coordination with existing resources to manage a very challenging situation. We needed and were able to utilize all components of our grid during the extreme weather event: our generation plants, load response programs, battery energy storage systems, and other distributed sources managed by our Distribution Operator service (“Smart, Deliberate Grid Management,” July 2022, page 4).

This is not to say the storm came and went without issue. A regional storm of this size has wide-ranging impacts, and in other parts of the country, several weather-related factors came together to create a situation where, when a sharp and large increase in power was needed in the predawn period of the day to maintain the grid, it simply wasn’t available.

Duke Energy implemented rolling service disruptions for the first time in its history — a preventative measure used to avoid potential longer outages on a larger scale. (The Northeast blackout of 2003, which affected an estimated 45 million people across eight U.S. states, is an example of what can happen when demand outpaces supply unchecked.) Members of several electric co-ops across North Carolina were impacted by the situation. Cooperative substations are interconnected to an expansive transmission grid, and when power to these substations is interrupted, so too is electric service to cooperative members.

We thank cooperative members for their patience and understanding on what was otherwise a joyous holiday weekend, and we deeply appreciate all of your efforts to voluntarily conserve power.

Electric utilities, including electric co-ops, will learn from this experience in order to enhance service and response times during future storms. This storm underscores the importance of grid reliability and coordination of a diverse set of supply resources. The carefully managed resources and technologies we have implemented passed a critical test, and we are committed to implementing the lessons learned from this latest situation in our future grid planning and operations. Through all of these changes, we will maintain a dedicated focus on providing affordable electricity to our cooperative members, while keeping reliability and resiliency top priorities.

Amadou Fall is COO of the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation.

This storm underscores the importance of grid reliability and coordination of a diverse set of supply resources.

One-touch speed dialing Powerful speaker Urgent Response button for help, 24/7

EASY The Jitterbug® Flip2 and Jitterbug® Smart3 are our easiest Jitterbug® phones ever. Both have large screens and list-based menus. The Jitterbug Flip2 has big buttons, a powerful speaker, and one-touch speed dialing. With the Jitterbug Smart3, you can voice type emails and texts, video chat and use the internet for maps and directions.

SAFE Turn your Jitterbug phone into a health and safety device with Lively® Urgent Response service. Simply press the Urgent Response button to be connected to a certified Agent who will confirm your location, assess the situation and get you the help you need, 24/7. Save over $55 per year when you add Urgent Response and the Lively Link® caregiver app.

AFFORDABLE Unlimited Talk & Text plans are just $19 99 /mo., plus the required data plan for your Jitterbug Smart3. There are no long-term contracts and no cancellation fees.

Save over $55/yr. with a Health & Safety Package.1 Save over $55/yr. with a Health & Safety Package.

To order or learn more, call 1.866.991.6840 Save over $55/yr. with a Health & Safety Package.*

1Discount of $4 99 applied monthly. Discount not available when you activate on lively.com. 2Monthly fees do not include government taxes or fees and are subject to change. For details on current pricing, visit lively.com. Plans and services may require purchase of Lively device and one-time setup fee of $35. A data plan is required for the Jitterbug Smart3. Urgent Response or 911 calls can be made only when cellular service is available. Urgent Response tracks an approx. location of device when device is turned on and connected to the network. Lively does not guarantee an exact location. Urgent Response and Lively Link are only available with the purchase of a Lively Health & Safety Package. Consistently rated the most reliable network and best overall network performance in the country by IHS Markit’s RootScore Reports. Amazon Alexa integration with Jitterbug Flip2 requires Alexa registration and is subject to Alexa’s Terms of Use. By enabling Alexa on the Jitterbug Flip2, you acknowledge that Lively is not responsible for Amazon Alexa’s functionality or services. Amazon, Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon. com, Inc. or its affiliates. Screen images simulated. Appearance of device may vary. LIVELY and JITTERBUG are trademarks of Best Buy and its affiliated companies. ©2023 Best Buy. All rights reserved.

Wake Electric’s Privette Posthumously Awarded Order of the Longleaf Pine

Late director’s family received the award on his behalf

On Dec. 8, former Wake Electric Director Rodney Privette was posthumously awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Since 1963, North Carolina’s governors have reserved the award as the highest honor for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments.

Privette passed away unexpectedly in August. He had served on the Wake Electric Board of Directors since March 2016. The award was presented to Privette’s family by NC Senator Sarah Crawford and NC Representative Terence Everitt. Donnie Lawrence, current chief of the Rolesville Rural Fire Department, coordinated the presentation, which coincided with the annual meeting for the fire department.

“Rodney’s impact on our community is an inspiring example of leadership to everyone who knows him,” said Wake Electric Board President Suzy Morgan. “As a Rolesville native, Rodney’s community ties ran deep, and Wake Electric celebrates the mark he left on the cooperative as well as public safety and economic development in our area.”

In addition to serving on the Wake Electric Board of Directors, Privette had served as chief of the Rolesville Rural Fire Department since 1992 where he had begun as a volunteer firefighter in 1975. He also served on the Wake County Fire Commission,

helped form the Rolesville Chamber of Commerce, served on the board of the Wake Forest Federal Savings & Loan and co-owned Privette Insurance Agency with his sister. He was also a devoted, lifelong member of the Rolesville Baptist Church.

“Rodney filled so many roles in service to his hometown,” said NC Senator Sarah Crawford, as quoted by The Wake Weekly. “And what I knew of Rodney from such a short time, and what I’ve learned since, is that he taught every single one of us what it means to live a life of devotion to others.”

“This prestigious award is a fitting way to recognize and honor Rodney’s legacy and impact on his community and our great state,” Morgan added. “We are proud to see one of our own being honored among North Carolina’s notables.”

In his spare time, Privette would restore old cars, including a 1965 Plymouth Barracuda that was once owned by a U.S. Army soldier who died in Vietnam (“The Compassionate Collector,” May 2020, page 14).

Students: Apply Now for Basketball Camp!

Rising sixth and seventh graders can now apply for a Touchstone Energy Sports Camp Scholarship to attend basketball camp in June.

Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp NC State University Raleigh

Carolina Basketball School

The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

Visit ncelectriccooperatives.com/sports-camps to apply by March 31.

(L to R) Privette’s family receiving the award were fiancée Susan Cashion; daughter Brandi Privette and her fiancé Kevin; Niki Privette and grandsons Carson, Hunter and Andrew, and son Coy Privette. NC Sen. Crawford and NC Rep. Everitt presented the award.

Laura Browne, The Wake Weekly

Randy Berger

Powering A Brighter Future

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives are enhancing reliability and advancing our service to consumer-members with cutting-edge technology as part of our Brighter Future vision.

Learn about our 5 microgrids, 10 battery energy storage systems, 13 solar + storage sites and more.

Scan here to visit

A fresh start for

rural healthcare

Training the next generation of rural doctors

By Sarah Thompson

Before Cannon Memorial Hospital’s labor and delivery unit closed in 2015, Dr. Benjamin Gilmer delivered one of the last babies to be born in an Avery County hospital. The unit where his cousins were born is gone because it was no longer seen as cost-effective to provide obstetrical care in the county, Dr. Gilmer explains.

“We have had more labor and delivery closures per capita than any other region in the country,” Dr. Gilmer says. “This is bad for communities, bad for the economy and certainly bad for women who would like to deliver their child in their home communities.”

Dr. Gilmer is the medical director of the Rural Health Initiative and Rural Fellowship at the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC), the largest of nine area health education centers in the state, which address the supply, retention and quality of health professionals, particularly in rural communities. Before joining MAHEC, he lived and worked as a doctor in rural North Carolina. He believes that inspiring the next generation of doctors is the best way to help rural places not only survive, but attain health literacy and gain access to specialized doctors educated on social justice in health advocacy.

Counties in need

The North Carolina Institute of Medicine describes primary care providers as “the entry point into the health care system.” Access to their care is associated with fewer health disparities and better health among various socioeconomic statuses.

The target primary care provider to population ratio should be equal to roughly 6.6 providers per 10,000 patients, according to the Institute. This ratio symbolizes how access to providers improves overall health of communities and can prevent a diagnosis or injury from becoming a

critical health issue. Yet many rural counties in North Carolina fall far short of this ratio (see map). The gap between access to health providers in rural versus urban counties is not just an inconvenience, it’s causing serious health disparities that doctors like Benjamin Gilmer want students to understand — and want to change.

Rural training

Dr. Crystal Gaddy worked in rural healthcare systems for more than 18 years. She has witnessed its shortfalls firsthand. Today, she is an associate professor at Pfeiffer

Corey Nolen

NC Primary Care Physicians 2021, by county

Source:

University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program in Stanly County, where she and other faculty echo the significant need for students to practice medicine in rural areas.

“We’re able to, along with other faculty, really teach and educate our students with the hopes that they will, at least initially or at sometime within their careers, serve those who are really underserved,” Dr. Gaddy says. “From the moment the students enter Pfeiffer’s Occupational Therapy Program, that is the main focus.”

Pfeiffer University’s graduate program in Occupational Therapy (OT) began about two years ago alongside their Physician Assistant (PA) Studies program. As their brandnew building started construction and faculty got together to discuss curriculums, rural health was always a part of the conversation. The most pressing issue discussed was the shortage of health providers in rural regions.

Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies and Randolph EMC member Dale Patterson says that it is extremely difficult to keep providers in rural places. When he’s not at the university, Dale continues to provide clinical care once a week in his local county, Montgomery. At Pfeiffer, students learn about the need for their skills in rural areas, but also the unique opportunities that practicing and living in a rural community can bring.

“The more rural you get, the more difficult it is to retain providers over time,” Dale says. “It can be burdensome on someone over a long period of time if you’re the only provider in office.”

Students discover this for themselves during their required fieldwork. Both the OT and PA programs place students across the country, and the world, to work with health providers and experience what it means to serve and be a part of a community. Dr. Gaddy believes that rural fieldwork is where students get the chance to show off their creativity and critical thinking.

“The best place to be creative is within rural healthcare,” Dr. Gaddy says. “When you have access to everything in the world, you don’t have to critically think as hard. With our students — with us trying to push them within those fieldwork areas and those opportunities in places we call ‘emerging areas’ — it shows them that anything is possible.”

Universities and rural health organizations try to motivate students to practice in rural areas through scholarships, loan forgiveness and other incentives. When Dale was in school, he received a National Health Service Corps scholarship and advises his students to take advantage of those opportunities, which give them more financial freedom to serve communities in need.

Desiring the work

Back in Western North Carolina, Dr. Gilmer works 60 to 80 hours a week trying to recruit the newest generation of doctors to practice in rural places. Over the past five years, they’ve placed approximately 30 doctors in western regions of the state. The Rural Health Initiative (RHI) has become the largest recruiter of the health professionals in the mountains and are busy looking to place more psychiatrists, general surgeons and obstetricians.

“Our ultimate goal is for every member of every rural community to have access to a primary care provider,” Dr. Gilmer says. “We want our students and doctors to desire work in rural areas.”

Like Pfeiffer, Dr. Gilmer advises students to look for avenues of support that can ease their transition into rural health systems. He explains the three pillars of support that RHI utilizes to attract and retain health professionals in western North Carolina. First, they talk with high school students to inspire them to give back to their community by becoming a rural care provider. Second, they recruit, train and support students through their schooling by providing scholarships, special training for rural care and connecting them with communities early on. Third, they support practices so that they feel well-capacitated and that they’re a part of a much larger mission.

Hope for the future

The work is exhausting yet rewarding. Doctors and local citizens are dedicating their lives to advocate and save lives in rural communities because they know everyone deserves the best care, no matter where they live. These advocates of rural healthcare find solace in those they work with and in the changes they’re seeing in the eyes of their students, patients and communities.

“Everybody wants to give rural communities the health services they need. It’s apolitical,” Dr. Gilmer says. “It’s more than medicine, and we’re just trying to do our part.”

Sarah Thompson was a Carolina Country editorial intern in 2022. She is currently pursuing a journalism degree from UNC Chapel Hill.

Dr. Benjamin Gilmer

Corey Nolen

Marching Toward Freedom

Stephen Hayes honors Black history through sculpture

By Vanessa Infanzon

In 2019, the Cameron Art Museum approached Durham-resident and sculptor Stephen Hayes about memorializing the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who marched through Wilmington during the Civil War Battle of Forks Road in 1865. Stephen accepted the challenge to create the memorial.

“This is a super important monument,” Stephen says, a 39-year-old Duke University assistant professor of the Practice of Art, Art History and Visual Studies. “It will tell the history of a story that is untold.”

Stephen’s creation — “Boundless,” a life-size bronze statue of 11 African American men — was unveiled in November 2021 on the grounds where the Battle of Forks Road was fought. The permanent exhibit is also the focal point at the only park in the nation built to honor the United States Colored Troops and their fight for freedom.

“They will be here until the end of time,” Stephen says of the troops. “I use my artwork to change the narrative.”

In the early stages of developing sketches for the sculpture, Stephen immersed himself in the history of the battle by walking the site and meeting the United States Colored Troops reenactors from Battery B 2nd United States Colored Light Artillery, USCT 35th Regiment Tryon Palace New Bern, and the 5th USCT Company C. While in character, these men gave Stephen a history lesson explaining what it was like to march and what kinds of clothing and shoes were worn. These soldiers didn’t have the benefit of making the trek on horses.

Each soldier’s face is based on a real person. At Stephen’s request, the museum put out a call for descendants of the soldiers and reenactors to pose for the sculpture. Stephen casted their faces, using plaster gauze

to capture the details in a mold which would later be filled with plaster. The hands were cast from another group of people, veterans and additional descendants of the soldiers.

“The bodies were made from mannequins, dressed in clothing from that time period,” Stephen explains. “I made the clothes flow in the direction of the movement pattern. Then I placed the heads on top of the bodies.”

Unlike most monuments, Stephen intentionally placed “Boundless” on the ground, not on a pedestal. He wants viewers to question how this monument speaks to ones they’ve seen mounted on a tall platform.

“A lot of my work is on the ground so people can be a part of the work,” Stephen says. “These guys marched on the ground. I wanted people to be face to face with my work. I didn’t want it to be on a pedestal so people have to look up and gawk at it.”

Once the plaster mold was ready, Stephen reached out to Carolina Bronze Sculpture, Inc., in Seagrove about casting the piece in bronze. The large multifigure casting was complex, says Ed Walker, president of Carolina Bronze. He and Stephen worked closely together.

“(Stephen) is a visionary,” Ed says. “He can create pieces that have strong statements about societal changes, especially about the plight of African American people. He’s highly respected in my book in his ability to convey those types of images so that people can view and experience his sculpture, and lead with a new sensibility about important social issues.”

Vanessa Infanzon moved to Charlotte for college and never left. When she’s not writing about business or travel, she’s paddle boarding on the Catawba River.

Alan Cradick

Cameron Art Museum

Carolina Bronze Sculpture

Alan Cradick

Stephen Hayes

Navigating Supply Chain Issues

The electric utility industry has not been immune from supply chain issues. However, you can rest assured that Piedmont Electric Cooperative has the supplies it needs to continue to provide you with the first class service you have come to expect.

Meter Project Slows

Supply chain issues have had the biggest impact on our ability to complete the meter exchange process we began last year.

Manufacturing constraints have delayed the delivery of the remaining meters we need to complete the project. We expect to receive the final batch of meters we need in the spring.

While we currently have enough meters to maintain both our new and legacy system, the delay in the delivery of new meters will push the project’s completion into late summer or early fall.

In operation for nearly 50 years, TEMA uses the collective buying power of North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives to secure better pricing for equipment, to diversify the number of suppliers and to help ensure that Piedmont Electric can continue to deliver the affordable, reliable electricity with the level of service you know.

Even in a time when costs are rising, this partnership saves the cooperative money while providing the materials we need to build and maintain our system.

Critical Infrastructure

Cooperation among cooperatives, one of our core seven principles, helps us bolster our supply lines, strengthen our service to our members and protect us from many of the supply chain issues other industries are facing.

Piedmont Electric is a part of a regional group of cooperatives that formed the Tarheel Electric Membership Association (TEMA), a material supply organization for North Carolina’s electric cooperatives.

Flip

Find Your Perfect Match

Love is in the air… and so are savings! Whether you’re lucky in love or still searching for that special someone, your perfect match is out there in the form of one of our convenient energy-saving programs that can help you save on your monthly bill.

We’ve developed a short, one-minute quiz you can take to get personalized recommendations about which Piedmont money-saving programs could be the best match for you. The quiz will help you think through your energy goals and ask you questions about how you currently use energy.

Depending on your lifestyle, routine and energy habits, some of our energy-saving programs will work better for you than others. For example, if you work from home, our time-of-day rate can help you save money by offering you a lower rate when you use energy during off-peak times. Or, if you got a new electric vehicle to help you kick off the new year on a “green foot,” our EV time-ofday rate could be just what you need.

Answering Piedmont Electric’s quiz questions will take all the guesswork out of it, so you’ll know exactly which programs will make the biggest impact on your specific bill. Once you’ve answered the questions, technology will work its magic, calculating which programs you should consider joining. The process is quick and easier than scrolling through your favorite smartphone apps.

So, what will it be? Is your perfect match our time-of-day rate? Or maybe it’s our smart thermostat savings program? There’s only one way to find out.

Head to pemc.coop/my-piedmont-programs today to take the quiz and learn which program you’re sure to love. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 800.222.3107.

SmartHub Makes It Even Easier to Track Your Savings

Once you’ve taken the quiz and signed up for your perfect match, don’t forget to create a SmartHub account if you haven’t already. SmartHub makes it easier than ever to keep tabs on your energy usage so you can get more insight into how joining our programs can impact the amount on your bill. Visit pemc.smarthub.coop to get started.

How Your Dollar Is Spent*

Thanks to the cooperative structure, we don’t answer to investors or shareholders. Instead, we answer to you, our member-owners. As such, we think it’s important that you know exactly how your dollars are spent when you pay your monthly electricity bill.

The easiest way to do this is by breaking down the percentage of where each dollar goes from our members.

By far, our biggest expense as a cooperative is the cost of purchasing power and is one of the areas where we have seen the biggest upward pressures on price. However, when we work collectively to lower our energy use on high-demand days, we can lower our wholesale power costs as well. Then, all of our dollars will go further as a result.

Our other costs help us effectively run our cooperative. Our top priority is to provide our members with safe and reliable power. To do this, we spend money to maintain the power grid, restore power during outages, offer member services and return capital credits to our members. We also account for interest, taxes, depreciation and the administrative costs of running our co-op. Every portion of every dollar spent is an investment in our members and is approved by our board of directors. At a time when it feels like we’re all getting less for more, we hope you feel confident that Piedmont Electric is working to make your dollar go further. We truly thank you for being a member.

Medical Power Needs During Outages

If you are a Piedmont Electric Cooperative member with a medical condition or use medical equipment that is dependent on having electricity, it is important to know how Piedmont Electric handles your situation in relation to power outages.

In the case of a power outage, Piedmont Electric will make every effort to respond to your needs. However, we cannot guarantee that we will restore electricity in a manner that would not threaten your dependence on medical equipment or would accommodate your medical condition. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you have a back-up plan to temporarily relocate to another location with electricity or have a standby power generator to accommodate your needs during prolonged power outages.

Piedmont Electric attempts to contact all members prior to planned outages or disconnections for non-payment. Make sure your phone number and email are up-to-date to ensure we can reach you ahead of these potential events and so that you will have time to plan accordingly. Verify your contact information on SmartHub or contact us at 800.222.3107.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

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

PIEDMONT ELECTRIC CONNECTION

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

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_ cust.html or at any USDA office, or call

(866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all the requested information in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to the USDA by:

1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

2. Fax: (202) 690-7442

3. Email: program.intake@usda.gov

Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Published monthly for the members of Piedmont Electric Cooperative. Piedmont Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Hillsborough and Roxboro Drive-Thru Hours: Tuesday,Wednesday and Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Caswell Drive-Thru Hours: Wednesday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Offices are closed except for scheduled appointments.

Available by phone Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Report outages, make payments and access account information by phone 24-hours-a-day by calling 800.222.3107.

Voice instructions will direct you through the system.

2500 NC Highway 86 South PO Drawer 1179 Hillsborough, NC 27278

Stephen B. Hamlin President & General Manager

DIRECTORS

Bill R. Barber, Chair

Randy Kinley, Vice Chair

David Poythress, Secretary

Richal Vanhook, Treasurer

Steven P. Bailey, Stephen C. Long, V. Kay Scurlock-Ferguson, Elizabeth Townsend & Cyrus Vernon

IF YOUR POWER GOES OUT, CALL OR TEXT

800.222.3107

Opt in for text alerts by texting “pemc” to 800.222.3107. Once you’ve opted in, report an outage by texting “#out” to 800.222.3107 or "#status" for an update on your outage.

Our automated outage reporting system uses your phone number to determine your service location. Update the phone number connected to your account online through SmartHub, by completing the form on your monthly bill or by calling 800.222.3107.

Use the SmartHub app to report an outage or online at pemc.smarthub.coop/#reportanissue: with your SmartHub login.

Please note that it may take up to 24 hours for our system to recognize new cell phone numbers in the text outage alert program.

With families reserving 2023 accommodations earlier than ever, there’s never been a better time to find the perfect place for your spring or summer getaway. It is nice to know that awe-inspiring remote beaches, legendary wild horses and iconic historical sites are here for you to treasure on the Corolla Outer Banks.

Find shopping, dining and entertainment with the new Corolla OBX Mobile App, on the App Store and Google Play.

Land of Legendary Wild Horses

Just North of where paved roads come to an end on the Outer Banks is where the official state horse of North Carolina roam. The legendary Corolla wild horses have been calling our beaches home for over 400 years.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse

A beacon helping guide travelers for well over a century, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse towers over the Outer Banks landscape. For a small fee, visitors can climb the winding staircase for a wide-open view of the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

Whalehead in Historic Corolla

In the heart of Historic Corolla Park you will find the Whalehead Museum, a restored 1920s era Art Nouveau architectural masterpiece with a storied history. Whalehead is host to several seasonal events, and offers tours Monday through Friday.

The Currituck Maritime Museum

Located just across the park from Whalehead, the new Currituck Maritime Museum tells the integral story of the history of wooden boats on the northern Outer Banks and their craftsmen through exhibits and artifacts. Open Monday through Friday.

Irrigation equipment can be upgraded to use less water, which means less pumping and less energy consumed.

Energy Efficient Farming Equipment

New tech can result in big energy savings

By Miranda Boutelle | Photos courtesy of Bonneville Power Administration

The importance of farms cannot be understated. Farmers feed our families and keep the country running. In North Carolina, farms generate more than $90 billion annually and provide jobs to one in six North Carolinians. But the business brings many challenges, including risk and uncertainty. Finding ways to use less energy can reduce costs and result in energy savings for years to come.

When looking to improve farm efficiency, consider the following areas.

Motors and pumps

Because motors and pumps account for a significant amount of energy use on a farm, replacing inefficient motors with efficient models can save energy and reduce costs. Adding variable frequency drives (VFDs) allow you to vary the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor or pump to adjust the motor’s speed. This saves kilowatt hours and reduces load by only operating at the needed capacity. VFDs can be used in place of a phase converter, which allows use of three-phase power equipment where there is only access to singlephase power. North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have piloted a new technology that eliminates the need for a phase converter and VFD when using motors on single-phase power.

Irrigation

Upgrade irrigation equipment to use less water, which means less pumping and reduces the amount of water and energy consumed. The goal is to get the right amount of water where it is needed. This can be accomplished by reducing evaporation through system design and fixing leaks in the system. GPS and geographic information system technologies allow for more specific irrigation targeting. Monitor and test systems regularly to ensure maximum efficiency.

Lights

The longer lights are on, the higher the potential for savings. Prioritize replacing incandescent or fluorescent exterior lighting on photocells or lights that stay on all night. LED lights last two to four times longer than fluorescents and 25 to 35 times longer than incandescents. That means less frequent replacement, which saves on materials and labor costs.

Heater controls

In climates where engine block heaters are used to keep vehicle engines warm enough to start, adding engine block heater controls with temperature sensors and timers will reduce electricity use. To keep water from freezing on farms with livestock, save energy by using stock tank heaters

Variable frequency drives allow you to vary the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor or pump to adjust the motor’s speed.

with thermostatic controls, which operate only when needed instead of running constantly. Insulated stock tanks may eliminate the need to heat water.

Emerging technology

New farming technologies that offer efficiency possibilities include electric tractors, space heating and water heating. Equipment with information technology capabilities can aid efficiency by monitoring conditions and automating farming tasks. As with home efficiency practices, consider the equipment used most and the savings potential from upgrading or modifying existing equipment.

Improving efficiency on the farm can result in less energy use, lower bills and improved farming success during challenging financial times.

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

The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now...

The MDHearing™ VOLT uses the same kind of technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price.

Over 800,000 satis ed MDHearing customers agree: High-quality, digital, FDA-registered rechargeable hearing aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, you don’t need to spend thousands for a hearing aid.

The MDHearing VOLT is a medical-grade, digital, rechargeable hearing aid offering sophistication and high performance; and works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive support. Now that you know...why pay more?

thinning hair and receding hairline

says top US Doctor

Thousands are rushing to get a new hair restoration method based on surprising new studies from the University of California.

It is the world’s first and only hair loss solution that revives dead hair follicles. And studies confirm it helps men and women regrow a thick, full head of hair, even after years of balding.

Now, with news of this breakthrough spreading like wildfire — the manufacturers are struggling to keep up with overwhelming demand.

That’s because, unlike other methods, it is prescription-free, drug-free, and has no side effects. And while hair transplants can cost $4,000 or more, this new approach costs pennies on the dollar and doesn’t involve going to the doctor’s office.

Instead, it leverages cuttingedge technology to prevent hair loss, fills in embarrassing bald spots, and Re-Nourishes thinning hair — with results you can see and feel in 30 days or less.

As Jeanne F. from San Diego, CA reports: “When my husband began to use this product, all he had on top of his head was fuzz. His hair began to grow after 30 days and now it is about 2 to 3 inches long!”

Surprising Truth About Hair Loss

It is commonly believed that hair loss is hereditary.

Unfortunately, most people think there is nothing they can do to stop it. However, while many doctors will tell you that thinning hair, a receding hairline, and bald spots are due to your genetics, this is not the whole story.

“While genetics play a role, it’s not the main reason you lose hair,” says Dr. Al Sears, the nation’s top anti-aging doctor. “And surprisingly it’s not just your age, thyroid, hormones, stress, or a vitamin deficiency, either.”

The latest scientific research reveals that hair loss is primarily caused by the stem cells in your

hair follicles dying.

“This discovery is a true breakthrough because by reviving these stem cells on your scalp, you can stop hair loss dead in its tracks and trigger new hair growth, even in areas that have been thinning for years,” explains Dr. Sears.

Now, at his world-famous clinic, the Sears Institute for Anti-Aging Medicine in Palm Beach, FL, Dr. Sears and his team have used this game-changing discovery to develop a brand-new hair restoration formula that is taking the country by storm.

Sold under the name ReNourish, it is flying off the shelves with men and women of all ages raving about the results it delivers.

“Your hair grows in three phases,” explains Dr. Sears. “First, you have the anagen phase, the hair growing phase. Then the catagen phase, when hair gets ready to shed. And finally, the telogen phase, where your hair is pushed from the follicle and falls out.”

As you get older it becomes harder for your hair follicles to complete this three-phase cycle. The results? Your hairs get stuck in the telogen phase. This is when they start falling out and stop regrowing, no matter what you try.

This process doesn’t happen overnight, says Dr. Sears.

“At first, your hair dries out, becoming brittle, thin, and harder to style. Then, you start finding hairs on your pillow and down the drain. Finally, you’re left with bald spots that age you prematurely.”

you can revive dead stem cells and improve the appearance of thicker, fuller hair.

For example, the key nutrient of Re-Nourish was tested on a group of severely balding women.

After 6 months, nearly 70% of the women saw significant improvement in hair growth. Their hair was noticeably fuller, thicker, and healthier looking. Most exciting of all, they grew new hair on parts of their scalp that had been bald for years.

In another study, Italian researchers gathered a group of both men and women with thinning hair and applied the core ingredient of Re-Nourish. After 12 weeks, they reported a staggering 74% increase in hair growth.

“It’s really mind-boggling that my hair started growing back,” says Zan R., another Re-Nourish customer.

“I have seen a significant improvement in hair growth. Previously, you could see thinning areas at the back of my head and now hair has grown over it,” says Peter W. from Ontario, Canada.

And Susan D. from Fort Pierce, Florida reports, “My hair was thinning. So, I began to use ReNourish every day on the front part of my scalp. Now I have thicker hair.”

Regrows Hair In Just 30 Days

Scientists now know that stem cells are the lifeblood of your hair follicles.

Research from the University of California shows they’re the reason you’re able to grow hair. However, these stem cells aren’t always active. In fact, studies reveal they’re only active during certain phases of the hair growth cycle.

Fortunately, Re-Nourish puts a stop to this. It revives the dead stem cells in your hair follicles and reactivates your hair’s three-phase cycle, triggering new growth in as little as 30 days — even in areas that’ve been balding for years.

Reawakens Dead Hair Follicles

For years, scientists couldn’t figure out why hair follicle stem cells died.

However, a study from the University of California finally found the answer.

It has to do with T-cells — an important immune cell in your body. The researchers discovered these T-cells are the only way to command hair follicles to grow new hair.

More importantly, they showed that T-cells helped revive the stem cells in your hair follicles — spurring new growth, filling in bald spots and natural hairline.

Re-Nourish uses a unique blend of all-natural ingredients. By spraying it on your hair once per day, scientific studies show

With results like this, it’s no surprise that demand for ReNourish is soaring. Thousands of men and women are scrambling to get their hands on the limited supply available.

Re-Nourish is not currently available in any store at any price. But we’ve secured a small batch for our readers.

Try Re-Nourish 100% Risk-Free

To secure the hot, new ReNourish formula, buyers should contact the Sears Health Hotline at 1-800-548-0935 TODAY. “It’s not available in retail stores yet,” says Dr. Sears. “The Hotline allows us to ship directly to the customer.” Dr. Sears feels so strongly about Re-Nourish, all orders are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee. “Just send me back the bottle and any unused product within 90 days from purchase date, and I’ll send you all your money back.”

Call NOW at 1-800-5480935 to secure your supply of Re-Nourish. Use Promo Code CCRN123 when you call. Lines are frequently busy, but all calls will be answered!

Breakthrough research proves this discovery helps fill in bald spots, re-nourishes thinning hair, and leads to noticeable growth in as little as 30 days.

Americans can finally grow thick, lustrous hair

“This will help your

in just 30 days”

Now you can finally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing with Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s

FREE Shower Package!

✓ First walk-in tub available with a customizable shower

✓ Fixed rainfall shower head is adjustable for your height and pivots to offer a seated shower option

✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub

✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price

Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better, more aff ordable walk-in tub!

Cold Weather Delight

Winter daphne offers sweet, cold weather fragrances

Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

Natural fragrance can be elusive in the winter garden. That’s why cold nostrils warm up quickly to the sweet, unexpected blooms of winter daphne (Daphne odora), which brave the chill of February to saturate the cool air with their surprising aroma, reassuring gardeners that, yes, spring is coming soon.

For all the positive mojo winter daphne brings to the landscape in February, it is a modest plant. This small, rounded shrub usually only grows to about 4 feet high and wide. Its evergreen foliage is plentiful, yet just plain green, although the popular variegated cultivar “Aureo-marginata” has leaves buttered with soft yellow on their edges. Visually, the scented flowers are also humble, being tight clusters of small, rose-pink or white stars.

But, oh, what a scent!

With such nose candy coming from its blooms during the chilliest times, winter daphne should be the darling of gardeners yearning for year-round interest in their landscapes. But the popularity of this cold-season cutie has been tempered by its reputation of being a short-lived plant.

True, winter daphne doesn’t seem to be as stout as many other woody ornamentals, but oftentimes, its fleeting presence in the garden is the result of improper planting.

Winter daphne is susceptible to root and crown rot when grown in soggy soil, so plant it in an area that has excellent drainage such as a mounded site or raised garden bed. Heck, I even planted three of them in separate, 18-inch diameter pots five years ago, and, although not as big as my ground-bound winter daphnes, they are all still going strong.

When planting winter daphne, make sure its soil has been heavily amended with compost or a soil additive like PermaTill to lighten the growing ground up while, at the same time, retaining some moisture because winter daphnes don’t like completely drying out either. Adding a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the plant — being careful to keep it a few inches away from the trunk —will help even out its ground moisture supply.

Winter daphne

Once your winter daphne has been planted, do not disturb its roots. This means no digging around the root zone. (And don’t even think about moving it!)

A properly established winter daphne can live for many years. But whether one graces your garden for two, 10 or more years, its intoxicating perfume filling the air in deep winter makes this special plant worthy of a try in your garden.

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

L.A.’s website of the month: Finch Blueberry Nursery (finchblueberrynursery.com) in Bailey, North Carolina, offers an exceptionally wide selection of bare-root blueberry bushes online.

Garden To-Do’s for February

Bare-root roses can be planted now. Get your beauties-to-be in the garden as soon as possible after buying them this month, but first hydrate the roots in water for about a half a day before planting. Dig the hole 12 to 18 inches deep and about 2 feet in diameter — wide enough to spread the roots out. Forming a dirt mound in the hole’s center will help stretch and support the roots while they are being firmed into the planting site. Also remember, for the best performance, roses should be placed in a spot that receives at least six hours of full sunlight.

□ If rampant vines tried to eat your landscape last year, now is the time to tame them before excessive foliage, pesky bugs and rising temperatures make this chore a misery. Feel free to whack back such nuisance crawlers and climbers like bittersweet, wild grape, kudzu, poison ivy (wear gloves), wisteria, Virginia creeper and Japanese honeysuckle.

□ Pansies still perky? To continue their pleasant flower shows into the spring, deadhead spent blooms and water the plants with a diluted fertilizer solution every three to four weeks. Ditto for the closely related Johnny jump-ups.

“Mother of Pearl” Rose

Advertising published in Carolina Country is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to customers at the advertised price. All ads must adhere to Carolina Country’s advertising policy, which can be found in our media kit at carolinacountry.com/advertise/MediaKit.

The magazine, North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc., and the member cooperatives do not necessarily endorse the products or

advertised. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading is never knowingly accepted. Should

encounter advertising that does not comply with these standards, please inform Carolina Country at 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616. 919-875-3091.

Don’t we all love spaghetti? In the spirit of spaghetti love, we offer you this one with a Southwestern twist. Serve as pasta with sauce, or stir it all together, top with cheese and voila — baked spaghetti.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, chopped

1 large green bell pepper, chopped

1 large red bell pepper, chopped

1½ pounds ground pork (or any ground meat)

2 cans (4-ounce) diced green chilies, undrained

2 cans (15-ounce) fire roasted diced tomatoes

1 can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes

¼ cup chili powder

2 tablespoons cumin

3 tablespoons oregano

4 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons each salt and pepper

Several bay leaves

2–3 tablespoons sugar

1 box (12-ounce) spaghetti, cooked

1 package (8-ounce) shredded Mexican blend cheese

Garnishes: sour cream, sliced jalapeño and cilantro

Heat oil in heavy skillet over medium high heat. Cook onion and bell peppers until tender, about 4–5 minutes. Add ground meat and cook just until barely done. Stir in chilies, tomatoes and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. Add sugar and taste to balance acidity of tomatoes.

Spoon over pasta and top with cheese. Offer sour cream, jalapeños and cilantro for garnish.

Yield: 4–6 servings

Recipes by Wendy Perry unless otherwise noted. Learn more about Wendy at WendysHomeEconomics.com

Remember when Chi-Chi’s introduced us to fried ice cream long ago? Simply scrumptious. We created our own version with a twist — the crispy cereal provides crunch without frying.

½ gallon vanilla ice cream

8 cups banana nut crunch cereal

½ cup butter

1 tablespoon sugar

4 bananas

1 jar caramel sauce

Whipped cream, optional Cherries with stems, optional

Use scoop to make balls of ice cream and put into muffin tin lined with cupcake papers. Freeze until hard.

From Your Kitchen

Hearty Breakfast Casserole

With three kinds of meat and eggs for protein, balanced by carbs from hash browns and rolls, “hearty” is an understatement for this breakfast bounty. Fuel your day the casserole way! Note: prep this recipe the night before you plan to eat it.

16 ounces hot breakfast sausage, cooked and drained

7 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ cup cooked, cubed ham

8 large eggs, beaten

3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 bag (16-ounce) cubed or shredded hash browns, frozen

1 tube (8-ounce) refrigerated crescent rolls

Salt and pepper to taste

Spray a 9-by-13 dish with nonstick cooking spray. Unroll the crescent rolls and pinch together to cover the bottom of the dish.

Crush cereal in zippered bag. Melt butter with sugar over medium heat. Add cereal and toss to coat. Toast while stirring for about 6 minutes. Remove to a bowl to cool.

Place ice cream balls into bowl of cereal and press onto balls. (Gloves help keep cream from melting as fast from heat on your hands when coating.) Keep frozen until ready to eat.

Smear plate with caramel sauce and top with coated ice cream ball, banana slices, a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry. Yield: Makes 8

Mix the sausage, bacon, ham, 2 cups of the cheese and the hash browns together in a bowl. Pour over the crescent rolls. Then pour the eggs over the mixture evenly.

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the egg mixture. Cover with the last cup of cheese and store overnight in the fridge.

Bake the next morning at 350 degrees until the center is set, around one hour to one hour and 15 minutes. Let set a few minutes before digging in.

Yield: 12 servings

Submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe

Recipe courtesy of Brenda Evans of Halifax, a member of Roanoke Electric

No Fry “Fried” Banana Pudding Ice Cream

Tex-Mexican Spaghetti

2 Trays – Diced Chicken Breasts (2.5 lb.)

2 Trays – Chicken Breast Strips (2.5 lb.)

2 Trays – Thin-Sliced Chicken Breasts (2.4 lb.)

1 Package – Organic Ground Chicken (1.5 lb.)

FREE –2 More Trays Diced Chicken Breasts (2.5 lb.)

FREE – 2 More Trays Chicken Breast Strips (2.5 lb.)

February Events

Yarn Bombing Street art with yarn or fiber

Through Mar. 30, Hendersonville 828-388-0247

Be the Change Actions & Reactions

Photography exhibition Feb. 1–24, Greenville 252-758-1946

43rd NC Jazz Festival Feb. 2–4, Wilmington 910-793-1111

Company K: From Asheboro to the Fields of France Play about National Guard origins Feb. 2–5, Asheboro 336-626-1240

Unsung Titans of the ‘70s & ‘80s African American actors in Hollywood Feb 2–26, Cary 919-462-2051

Art by African American Masters

Visual Art Class for ages 11–15 Feb. 3, Cary 919-469-4069

Cole & MaryAnn Delta Blues musicians Feb. 3, Elizabeth City 252-599-1030

Jason Catron and his Little Big Band Big Band-style concert Feb. 3, Oriental 252-617-2125

Ironwood Estate Orchids Annual Open House Greenhouse specializing in orchids Feb. 4–14, Hickory 828-294-3950

Lift Half-Model Class Woodworking boat model class Feb. 4–5, Beaufort 252-504-7740

Super Family Game Day Board games, arcade games Feb. 4, Greenville 252-758-1946

GMoArcade 21+ event with nightlife and video games Feb. 4, Greenville 252-758-1946

Merry Time for Tots

Maritime crafts and activities for ages 2–5 Feb. 8, Beaufort 252-504-7740

Dancing with the Stars 2023 Tour Feb. 8, Durham 919-680-2787

Ocean Infants Maritime crafts and activities Feb. 8, Beaufort 252-504-7740

ZUZU African Acrobats Drumming, singing and stunts Feb. 9, Morganton 828-433-7469

Adults Only Tour

Alternative museum tour for ages 21+ Feb. 10, Beaufort 252-504-7740

The Bryan Show Music and magic Feb. 14, Washington 252-946-2504

Applause! Theatrical performance of African folktales Feb. 18, Cary 919-469-4069

Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart Play about baseball legend Feb. 18, Washington 252-946-2504

The Powell Boyz Gospel concert Feb. 18, Washington 252-946-2504

The Face of Emmett Till Interactive symposium workshop Feb. 19, Cary 919-839-9505

Empire Wild Musical trio Feb. 19, Oriental 252-617-2125

Brandi Carlile A special solo performance Feb. 22, Durham 919-680-2787

Who Hijacked My Fairytale? Theatre performance starring Kelly Swanson Feb. 23, Morganton 828-433-7469

Riverdance Irish and international dance performance Feb. 24–26, Durham 919-680-2787

Visit carolinacountry.com/calendar for more information about each event, including links to the most current information, or to submit your own event.

where in Carolina

Country is this?

Send your answer by Feb. 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

Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified. The winner, chosen at random and announced in our March issue, will receive $25.

December’s winner

The December “Where Is This”

member Brad Camp features the covered bridge along the Fonta Flora Trail at Lake James, located off Highway 126 in Burke County. The almost 20-mile, multi-use trail will eventually reach 100 miles, connecting Morganton to Asheville, as well as the Overmountain Victory State Trail and the Mountains-to-Sea Trail along the way. For now, hikers and bikers enjoy the trail as it showcases Lake James and its surrounding environs. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Samuel Smith of Morganton, a Rutherford EMC member.

Have a roadside gem you’d like to share? Submit a photo, plus a brief description and general location information, at carolinacountry.com/where

photo by Rutherford EMC

Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart Play about baseball legend Feb. 18, Washington

The

As a homeowner, you don’t trust just anyone to make repairs to the systems in your home. That is why Piedmont Electric selected HomeServe to offer repair plans to members. HomeServe is a leader in home repair solutions, with more than 4.5 million homeowners trusting them to help protect their finances.

HomeServe arranges a repair every 49 seconds in the United States and helps homeowners with the expense and inconvenience of water, sewer, electrical, and HVAC home emergencies by offering affordable coverage and bringing prompt, reliable service.

HomeServe USA Repair Management Corp. (“HomeServe”), with corporate offices located at 601 Merritt 7, 6th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851, is an independent company separate from Piedmont Electric Cooperative and offers this optional service plan as an authorized representative of the service contract provider, North American Warranty, Inc., 175 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Your choice of whether to participate in this service plan will not affect the price, availability or terms of service from Piedmont Electric Cooperative.