2024-01-BRE

January 2024

WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT,

SO DO WE Your cooperative prepares throughout the year to restore power quickly and safely when needed. Make sure you’re ready, with valuable tips and tools on the next page.

PERIODICAL

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Well-prepared It’s how we roll Blue Ridge Energy does everything possible to prevent outages, but nature can throw a curveball with winter ice and heavy snow. Crews on standby roll out. Along with a team of system operators and other behind-the-scenes employees, they work until power is restored.

Make sure you’re ready, too: • Prepare an outage kit beforehand. Have essential items like a flashlight and batteries, bottled water, nonperishable food items, blankets, a manual can opener and more.* • Keep your phone fully charged, and check your texts for outage info.

Automatic outage texting is provided to members who have cell phone numbers listed on their accounts. Receive initial alerts when an outage affects your service address, and a follow-up message once power is restored.

• Download the Blue Ridge Mobile App to stay informed. Check the Outage Map, follow restoration efforts and more. Download it from the App Store, Google Play or the “Outage Info” page on our website.

• Have extra bottled water on hand.

If there is an outage: • Report your outage online, on the mobile app, or call 1-800-448-2383.

• STAY AWAY from downed power lines. They may still be energized!

• Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

• If you use a grill, do so outside and make sure it’s away from flammable objects.

• Never use a generator inside.

Together, let’s be well-prepared to weather winter outages.

* Visit the “Storm Room” page on BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

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January 2024

Carolina Country

Scenes

page 16

Published by

Co-ops partner on innovative projects page 6

Cookin’ up NC Brunswick stew page 8

PERIODICAL

Blue Ridge Energy explains the steps to restoring power after a storm—pages 11–14 CC01-Cov.indd 3

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Phone Mail: Web: Email:

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January 2024

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 56, No. 1

Published monthly by 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950 Scott Gates, CCC Editor Warren Kessler Creative Director Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor Rue Reynold Editorial Assistant Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer

Donna Natosi Digital Strategist Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com

or

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

a al

3 12:18 PM

16

Tara Verna Creative Services Associate

Kristie Aldridge, CCC Vice President 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.

Carolina Country is available on digital cartridge as a courtesy of volunteer services at the NC Department of Cultural Resources, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Raleigh, NC 888-388-2460.

Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC, and additional mailing offices. Editorial offices: 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950. Carolina Country® is a registered trademark of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Carolina Country, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950.

All content © Carolina Country unless otherwise indicated.

Contact us

8 16 20

Brunswick Stew by the Gallon George Wooten is among those keeping a Southern tradition alive.

Carolina Country Scenes A gallery of your photos, submitted through our annual photo contest.

On the Shoulders of Giants

Ken Peacock built a legacy by putting students first.

Favorites 2 From Our Readers 4 Viewpoints 6 More Power 15 On the House 22 Carolina Kitchen

Phone:

919-875-3091

24 Carolina Calendar

Mail:

3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

24 Where is This?

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.

On the Cover “This is a common scene here during the fall at the Crystal Coast, of Bogue Bankers’ stop net [fishing equipment for mullet]. To many here, this marks the start of the autumn season.” Photographed

by Nicholas Green of Morehead City, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

What’s Cooking in Your Kitchen?

We’re always on the lookout for great recipes from our readers (and we put our money where our mouth is, offering $25 for those published). See page 22 for details.

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From Our Readers

THIS MONTH:

Carolina Country Scenes Toward the end of November, the Carolina Country team gets together for what I now count among my holiday season traditions: the annual judging of the reader photo contest. It’s always a joy to see what has been submitted from all across the state, typically with ample artful shots of sunsets, mountain views, coastal starry skies, butterflies, and—usually met with a collective “awww” from our group—cute kids and animals. See some of the best from what was submitted starting on page 16.

—Scott Gates, editor

A top-down view of Dan’s Christmas cactus

Festive Flowers I read the article on Christmas cactus in your November issue (“Snappy, Seasonal Blooms,” page 26) and sent you a picture of mine. I leave this 50-pound beauty out during the spring and summer months under my carport, and water it occasionally. By October I bring it inside and do not water it until November. By then I can see the blossoms on the plant.

Creamery Correction On page 9 in your December issue, “Raise a Glass to Eggnog," listed four small dairies that produce eggnog.

Simply Natural Creamery in Ayden has a wrong phone number listed. The number is 252-746-3334 (not area code 242), and although the city of Ayden is in Pitt County, “The Creamery” as we know it here is actually in Greene County.

Dan Kasel, a member of Piedmont Electric Cooperative

Kevin Wright, Snow Hill, a member of Pitt and Greene EMC

Carolina SNAPSHOTS

THEME

Bundled Up A Ready to Play!

Ian Slade, Wake Forest A member of Wake Electric B Snow Time is Family Time

Jane Van Hoy, Statesville A member of EnergyUnited

C

C Snowshoeing at Sugar Mtn.

Kate Kedzierski, Morganton A member of Rutherford EMC D Cold Can’t Stop Her

Kimberly Farmer, Dobson, A member of Surry-Yadkin EMC

A SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO!

March Theme: Garden Giants

B

D

Send us your best shots based on the upcoming month’s theme by Jan. 20 — we’ll pay $25 for those published. Submit high resolution digital photos and find full terms and conditions at carolinacountry.com/snapshots (no emails, please). We retain reprint and online rights for all submissions.

2 | January 2024

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Viewpoints

The Co-op Spirit of Innovation

By Greg Puckett

Since the early days of rural electrification, co-ops have been innovators in our field.

Through our history we’ve found ways to bring service to unserved communities, ever improving access to reliable, affordable, safe electricity as technology has advanced. That spirit continues to drive us today, and in a time of uncertainty as our industry evolves, we are pursuing and applying new technologies that help us maintain reliable service while giving members better control of their energy use.

For example, at my co-op, Surry-Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation in Dobson, we’ve launched a partnership with North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC) and Hollar & Greene Produce, one of Surry-Yadkin’s commercial/ agricultural member-owners and the largest cabbage distributor in the United States. The eTRU (electric transportation refrigeration unit) This innovative project project has been a win-win for has allowed the Hollar & Greene Produce and cooperative to help a Surry-Yadkin EMC. member-owner reduce The eTRU project allows carbon emissions… the trucking company to use a hybrid refrigeration unit to cool its cabbage with electricity while in staging at the distribution center, reducing the diesel it needs to purchase and burn.

This innovative project has allowed the cooperative to help a member-owner reduce carbon emissions in order to meet standards set by their customer’s sustainability goals. (Learn more on page 6.)

Also in 2023, Surry-Yadkin applied for a Department of Energy (DOE) Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships grant. Our application was one of a handful of co-op projects awarded nationally, saving our member-owners more than $7 million to harden the grid and make our power more reliable.

This infrastructure work will include the installation of new innovative technology — called FLISR (fault location, isolation and service restoration) devices — which will allow us to locate and respond to outages more efficiently, reducing outage restoration

times. It will provide security monitoring in the field, as well as increase reliability and redundancy of electricity on some of our most critical circuits.

This means if the power has an interruption for some reason, such as a storm, in that critical area, we will be able to switch power from another area so there is little to no interruption to the member-owners. This is called a “self-healing” circuit.

The co-op has skin in the game, too. The $15 million, five-year grant project requires a little more than a 50% match from the co-op with the DOE covering the other just under 50%. We are investing in our infrastructure to benefit the member-owners and the community through job creation and economic development.

This year, Surry-Yadkin EMC will join other electric co-ops across the state in deploying a battery storage system at our newest substation. These projects allow power generated on the grid to be stored in a battery facility. During critical peak use times, the stored energy can be placed back on the grid to help offset the high demand. Ten such battery systems are currently operating at North Carolina co-op substations, with another dozen in the works.

Innovation continues to drive the electric industry, and North Carolina’s electric co-ops are always on the hunt for the best ways to serve our member-owners — whether that is through direct member services projects, grid reliability projects or other new initiatives. Together, we are building a brighter future that allows us to continue our mission of powering and empowering the people and communities we serve.

Greg Puckett is executive vice president and general manager for Dobson-based Surry-Yadkin EMC.

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More Power

eTRU Project Honored with Innovation Award Surry-Yadkin EMC and Hollar & Greene Produce partnered on emissions-reducing project Surry-Yadkin EMC

Just six months after unveiling a solution to reduce carbon emissions for a major produce distributer in North Carolina, Surry-Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation and Hollar & Greene Produce have been recognized with a Cleantech Innovation Award.

These awards, which are hosted by the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster, recognize initiatives and projects that have contributed to the growing cleantech ecosystem in North Carolina. Surry-Yadkin EMC and Hollar & Greene were selected in the transportation category for providing a more energy efficient way to transport produce.

“An award for innovation or an award of any kind never crossed my mind during the project,” said Travis Bode, manager of economic development at Surry-Yadkin EMC. “Being recognized for the award is a huge honor not only for Surry-Yadkin EMC, but for the whole partnership between Hollar & Greene, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and our team.”

The eTRU project, which stands for electric transport refrigeration unit, uses electricity to power refrigeration units used for cold-storage shipping, instead of diesel. This new and innovative technology is the first of its kind for a North Carolina electric cooperative.

Representatives from Surry-Yadkin EMC, Hollar and Greene Produce and the local community during a ribbon-cutting for the eTru project

The pilot program has already seen success, with Hollar & Greene saving hundreds of dollars on fuel every month, along with reducing their carbon emissions and noise pollution.

“Projects like this are critical to putting us on a path to achieving our Brighter Future goals,” said Joseph Gadient, innovation and business development analyst for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “We already have a relatively low-emission generation mix in North Carolina that is getting cleaner by the day, so any opportunity to convert fossil fuel technology to electric will save emissions both now and in the future.”

Hollar & Greene is a family-owned business that has roots in the mountains of North Carolina since 1963.

They serve as one of the largest cabbage producers and distributors in the United States, with their produce traveling hundreds of miles around

the country. In their selection of the eTRU project, the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster said, “because transportation sources account for 36% of NC’s greenhouse emissions this type of program has the potential to help meet the state’s carbon targets.”

Surry-Yadkin EMC says the ability to bring innovative technology like this to one of their members is a major win for everyone involved.

“It’s a great feeling to make this kind of an impact with one of our commercial and industrial members and ties directly back to the cooperative principles,” Bode said. “We’re excited to see how this pilot program continues to unfold, and looking at how we can implement technology like this in our service area and hopefully beyond.”

—Josh Conner, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

Energy Trivia

Q:

Hydropower has long been the leading source of renewable generation (accounting for about 6% of annual U.S. power generation), but what type of power is expected to become the No. 1 renewable source in 2024?

A:

Solar power. “We forecast that the United States will generate 14% more electricity from solar energy than from hydroelectric facilities in 2024,” the U.S. Energy Information Administration said.

“Our forecast is driven by continued growth in new utilityscale and small-scale solar facilities.”

6 | January 2024

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“ s t c s t d

NC Zoo, Randolph EMC Partner to Deploy Electric Tractor A few years ago, the thought of plugging in a tractor to recharge after a long day’s work seemed far-fetched. Now it will be part of the everyday routine for the staff at the North Carolina Zoo. In a partnership led by Randolph EMC and supported

by North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, the Asheborobased Zoo added an all-electric tractor to its fleet this fall. The electric vehicle will not just cut out grueling oil changes and costly diesel fuel, it will have all the same capabilities as its fuel-consuming predecessor.

“Randolph Electric is proud to facilitate this “Bringing new partnership between the solutions like North Carolina Zoo and a private sector company this to the dedicated to reducing carbon emissions,” said communities we Michael Trent, vice serve is all part of president of member services and public relathe cooperative tions for Randolph EMC. difference.”

“This partnership is just another example of how North Carolina’s electric cooperatives work every day to develop sustainable practices that translate to a brighter future for our member-owners.”

The collaboration was a natural fit between all parties.

The North Carolina Zoo is a member of Randolph EMC and has worked closely with the local electric co-op on a number of innovative projects over the years, including electric vehicle charging stations, and already has a number of electric vehicles in their fleet.

“The intention from day one was for this tractor to operate no differently than a conventional one,” said Jim Musilek, vice president of innovation and business development and strategic management for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “These types of tractors have been

Randy Berger Photography

s s

More Power

used in greenhouses, municipal applications and livestock with great success. Once we get our hands on the pilot results, we will better understand how they function and where else we can implement technology like this.”

While electric cars and bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, projects like electric tractors are still breaking ground in the EV world. Musilek says this pilot program will shed light on the possibilities that these machines have for not only the state zoo, but for businesses and consumers statewide.

“We are thinking outside the box with many of the projects we are working on these days,” Musilek said.

“Bringing new solutions like this to the communities we serve is all part of the cooperative difference we strive to make.”

—Josh Conner, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives

Need Support in a Crisis?

988 is a resource for you and loved ones Did you know that since 2022, a simple crisis support resource has been in place across the country? People can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

The number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. No matter the time or where you live, you can reach a caring, trained counselor who can help people experiencing mental healthrelated distress, including thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, or other reasons for emotional distress.

carolinacountry.com | 7

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BRuNSWICK

STEW

BY THE GALLON

When it comes to talking about Southern foods, any list that’s fit’n will include Brunswick stew. And if not, you need a better list!

The “Battle of the Brunswicks” has gone on for centuries.

Much debate has ensued as to the origins of this hodge-podge of meats and vegetables. Depending on who you ask, folks in Georgia declare being first, and have even memorialized it with a “first pot” monument in Brunswick, while those in Brunswick County, Virginia, make the case for themselves.

Then, there are those who proclaim it was a favorite of Queen Victoria of England and they got it from Germany! This battle will likely live on forever in culinary history books. No matter where it was born, the fact is, some of the best Brunswick stew can be found right here in North Carolina — where you can go to 10 different barbecue restaurants and have it cooked as many different ways as a side, or a bowl unto itself with hushpuppies. There are as many recipes as there are stars in the sky, and there’s just no “right” way to cook it.

Knowing our readers, we feel certain many of y’all have your own recipe and stand firm about what should and should not go in it. Perhaps we can all agree on the basics: There’s meat, it’s tomato-based, and it has vegetables. It should be thicker than soup and juicy — but not so thick you’d eat it with a fork.

George Wooten is among those keeping a Southern tradition alive Story and photos

by Wendy Perry As for the meat(s), perhaps the hunters in your life have been remiss in bringing home fresh rabbit or squirrel for stew cooking, the originals. Most folks spare those critters and use chicken and pork. Some just use pork barbecue from local restaurants.

Here in the South, stew is oftentimes cooked to celebrate some sort of event. Back in tobacco days, it was common for there to be a big old wash pot of stew cooked for farmhands to celebrate culmination of the harvest.

Communities had and many still have stew cookin’s, and in the fall especially you’ll be able to get some from your local church or fire department. Some cook their own and pre-sell tickets, leaving behind the communal sit-down fellowship I remember “back in the day.” While others get to sell from expert cookers.

One such a fellow, Mr. George Wooten — a member of Edgecombe-Martin County EMC — came to me by personal reference from several friends. From my first call, he felt like an old friend and welcomed me to spend a few hours, commencing in the dark of night, joining him and his stew crew.

White-fisted during peak deer season driving at 4 a.m. on unfamiliar backroads, I made my way through the fog to his stew cookhouse on the outskirts of Macclesfield in Edgecombe County. Upon arrival, my headlights caught his “stew today” sign at the road alerting passersby of

8 | January 2024

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Wendy Perry and Mr. George

Neighbor and retired co-op employee Bill Harrell helps out.

stew day and saw the neon “OPEN” light glowing from his cookhouse.

The stew crew would arrive soon. George puts the chicken on to boil in his ginormous cooking vats about 1 a.m., so when the crew arrives, it’s time to start adding the vegetables and stir — for hours!

(For food safety reasons, the non-profits George cooks for get one permit per month.)

Helpers arrived, and before stew making commenced, Mr. George gathered us all around to begin in prayer. Then, cans started getting opened, dumped and everyone took turns stirring the pots for about three hours. The stew is stirred with cherry wood paddles with holes like those used for making apple butter. They reach to the bottom of the pots to keep the stew from burning, and the holes offer less resistance. Stirring never stops.

Once finished and packaged by 8:30 a.m., the morning’s efforts yielded 848 quarts of stew — I’ve never seen anything like it!

On this day, he cooked for the Macclesfield Fire Department to sell at the town’s fall festival and United Church of Jesus Christ (Princeville), both who had presold tickets. Once quarts were picked up by the preacher and firemen for delivery, the pots were cleaned and the cookhouse put back as when we started, ready for the next cookin’.

Mr. George grew up helping his mama cook stew for

their church. In 1988, he started cooking Brunswick Stew for others. Fascinated at all that stew made at this one cookin’, I asked him if he has any idea how much stew he has cooked in all these years? Without batting an eye he said, “Oh I sure can tell you. I keep up with that in notebooks and can tell you who I cooked for, when and how much. I’ve cooked 230,000 quarts.”

People, that is A LOT of Brunswick stew — 57,000 gallons, to be exact! The most he’s cooked in one batch is 1,200 quarts, or 300 gallons.

Mr. George is an NC Brunswick stew cookin’ legend and has helped so many garner much-needed funds for their communities. You may have enjoyed some of his stew and not even known it.

We are grateful for folks like him, keepers of our culinary heritage, and for Brunswick stew — no matter where it came from.

Culinary Adventurist Wendy Perry (WendyPerry.com) is a home economist, blogger and NC food artisan. Join her in adding your favorite stew cookings, restaurants and recipes at NCBrunswickStewTrail.com.

Digital Extras

Did Wendy get you hungry for Brunswick stew? Have no fear—you can stir up your own batch with her recipe, available at carolinacountry.com/extras carolinacountry.com | 9

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01 TWENTY TWENTY FOUR

MATTERS

Restoring power during a storm

Step by step...

Restoring power after an outage involves steps for safely getting the most members restored in the shortest amount of time. Our plan is based on these priorities: Step 1:Transmission structures and lines that supply power to one or more transmission substations are restored first. These main delivery lines receive first priority because they serve tens of thousands of people.

Step 2: Next are distribution substations, which “step down” (reduce) voltage from transmission lines so it can be distributed to thousands of members.

Step 3: Main distribution supply lines (the ones you see on poles along roads) that carry electricity away from substations are targeted next.

Step 4: The final power supply lines to a member’s home, called “tap lines,” are restored. These carry power from utility poles or underground transformers.

Step 5: Damage can also occur on the service line leading from the transformer pole into your home.

This could be why your neighbors have power and you don’t — one reason all outages should be reported.

Members should always report outages to the cooperative in one of several ways: Blue Ridge Energy’s mobile app; by calling our PowerLine at 1-800448-2383, or by using outage texting. To report an outage, text OUT to 70216.

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THE

Perspective Powering our Communities f or the Future A new year is often associated with change and while the energy industry and what is happening at your cooperative is always evolving, one thing that has not changed is our focus and commitment to providing reliable electricity that you, our member-owners can count on – whenever you need it.

M c a p I s c O 1

From Blue Ridge Energy CEO Doug Johnson

20 years ago as our team recognized the need to upgrade an over 60-year-old 100 KV transmission line that was nearing the end of its useful life to serve our mountain counties. In 2022, work was completed to upgrade that line from 100 KV to 230 KV to increase capacity and to improve reliability to better serve the growing electricity demand in these areas.

As you are all aware, we work in some of the most rugged terrain in The final component the country, with a growing of the project, the membership, and steadily Rutherwood substation, “steps down” the increasing electricity demand. We know that as 230KV transmission line electric demand grows and to 100KV transmission technology evolves, the lines. The entire project electrical system designed is benefitting the cooperative’s electric system for the needs of yesterday through improving grid will not keep up with the resiliency and increasing needs of tomorrow. Careful capacity to manage system planning from our A large transformer being installed at the the ever-increasing engineering and operations Rutherwood Substation in 2023 challenges of handling team is required to continue high electricity demand, particularly during the delivering reliable energy. harsh winters.

We are pleased to share with you that the final Operating an electric utility takes careful piece of our largest reliability project to date is planning for the needs of our members and now complete. As part of a 17-mile transmission upgrade to serve our mountain districts of ensuring that reliable energy is delivered.

Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga, the Rutherwood Completing this project would not have been Substation, located in Watauga County, is now possible without the diligent work of our energized. This substation and the associated engineering and operations team from the transmission line upgrades will have a signifilinemen to the engineers planning and overseeing the project – and to them, I say cant impact on improving reliability now and in thank you for their outstanding work! the future. Planning for this project began over

Page 12

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Membership MAT TERS

12/12/23 12:05 PM

A o t 5 s

N s m d e t

D a d t A r T t s a i

Q R l a B o

S t e q

Interested in becoming a candidate f or the board of direc tor s?

Members wishing to be considered as a candidate for the Board of Directors have two application options: the nominating committee process or the nomination by petition process.

Interested members must complete and submit a director application packet by contacting Julie O’Dell, Chief Administrative Officer, at jodell@blueridgeenergy.com or 1-800-451-5474, ext. 3202.

All application information is due by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 1, 2024, when going through the Nominating Committee process, and by 5 p.m. on Monday, April 1, 2024, for those seeking nomination by petition.

(a) must be a natural person and a citizen of the United States, (b) must be at least eighteen (18) years of age, (c) must have been a member for a minimum of three (3) years, and such three (3) year period may include at the time of application by a director candidate, the membership duration of a spouse, as long as the director candidate applies for and becomes a joint member prior to being elected or appointed as a Director of the Cooperative, (d) must have a high school diploma or GED,

Nominations by petition must include signatures of 20 or more members with a minimum of five from each of the four directorate districts with a requirement that each signature is the name that appears on the member’s electric service bill.

Directors are members of the cooperative and serve three-year terms, with three directors elected from each of the Cooperative’s four districts (Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe and Alleghany districts). Each director represents all members of the Cooperative.

They attend Board meetings, Board committee meetings, and attend numerous training sessions throughout the year to be equipped and knowledgeable to serve in the best interests of the membership.

Qualifications to serve as a director of Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation are listed below from Section 3.02 of the Cooperative’s Bylaws and can also be found online at BlueRidgeEnergy.com or at any local district office.

SECTION 3.02 Qualifications. To be eligible to become or remain a Director of the Cooperative, such person must meet the following qualifications:

(e) must be receiving electric service from the Cooperative at his primary residence which shall be for qualification purposes where a member is registered to vote and spends most of his time, (f) must not have had a membership that has been in a state of suspension as defined in Section 1.10, (g) must have and sustain the Cooperative’s most favorable credit rating as defined in the Service Rules and Regulations, as herein defined in Section 3.15, (h) must not have been involved at any time in meter tampering reported to law enforcement, (i) must be legally competent and available to attend regular Board meetings, committee meetings, training and other events. Directors who miss more than two consecutive regular Board meetings may be subject to removal action by the Board. It shall be the duty of the Board to develop additional policy guidelines on attendance requirements,

Story continues on page 14...

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Vegetation management helps Blue Ridge Energy achieve one of the BEST reliability ratings in the country.

Continued...Interested in becoming a candidate for the board of directors? (j) must not in any way be employed by, financially interested in, or serving as an officer, director, trustee or equivalent for a competing enterprise with the Cooperative or its subsidiaries, or a business that sells products, services or supplies to the Cooperative or its subsidiaries, (k) must not have a close relative (as hereinafter defined in Section 3.14) who is in any way employed by, financially interested in, or serving as an officer, director, trustee, or equivalent for a competing enterprise with the Cooperative or its subsidiaries, or a business that sells products, services or supplies to the Cooperative or its subsidiaries, (l) must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or a felony

pursuant to state or federal laws, (m) must not have been a former regular full-time employee of the Cooperative or its subsidiaries, (n) must not have a close relative who is an employee or incumbent director of the Cooperative as defined in Section 3.14 of these Bylaws, (o) must comply with the requirements of the governing conflict of interest policies and guidelines as adopted by the Board, and (p) Must complete a conflict-of-interest statement as part of the formal candidacy application process that includes disclosure of any nonmember campaign assistance.

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

Membership MAT TERS

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DISTRICT OFFICES Caldwell Watauga Ashe Alleghany PowerLine*

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

(800) 451-5474

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

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

12/12/23 12:05 PM

On the House

Uncharted Water (Heaters) Know your water heater options before it needs replacing

By Jonathan Susser

Q:

When I followed last month’s advice and insulated my water pipes (“Winterization Tips for Energy Savings,” page 16), I noticed that my water heater is getting up there in age, but I don’t know much about the technology. Can you fill me in?

A:

Water heaters, especially when hidden away in a crawl space, attic or closet, can frequently get the out-of-sight, out-of-mind treatment. But to minimize surprises, it’s helpful to check in regularly with our home appliances. My own water heater celebrated its 18th birthday last August, so this topic has been top of mind for me as well.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters represent 14% to 18% of a home’s overall energy consumption, up there with our heating and cooling systems. This amount, though, can vary based on the kind of water heater you have — there are several types and efficiency levels available.

One distinction is between storage and tankless water heaters. Storage water heaters are more traditional, relying on a storage tank to supply hot water. Alternatively, tankless, or on-demand, equipment heats water only when needed and does not have a tank. Tankless water heaters take up less space, but they tend to cost more upfront and may require a larger supply of gas or electricity.

As noted, the broad categories of storage and tankless water heaters come in gas and electric versions. Digging deeper, there are units specific to each fuel source, so it would be helpful to know what yours runs on. You don’t have to stick with the same fuel when you get a replacement, however, and newer technologies are making it easier to switch to electric, if that’s of interest.

Gas water heaters include atmospheric vent water heaters, power vent water heaters and direct vent water heaters. These differ in how they vent gases and other combustion byproducts to the outside, with the various mechanisms mostly connected to efficiency ratings.

Electric water heaters come in two main forms.

Standard models call on electric resistance heat, and there are also super-efficient heat pump versions. In our November column, we discussed heat pumps functioning as a heating and cooling system. Here, the heat pump is using electricity to absorb heat from the surrounding air and using that to heat water in a storage tank. This equipment is two-to-four-times more efficient than electric resistance water heaters, but has certain temperature and space constraints.

Other more niche water heaters exist as well, such as solar water heaters and combined heat and power (CHP) water heaters.

As with any appliance, efficient water heaters generally cost more initially, but given the technology’s expected life span and its role in your monthly energy bill, operating costs — in part based on efficiency — may be worth considering.

Keep in mind that heat pump water heaters and other higher-efficiency models are eligible for incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act, and maybe from your electric co-op, too. So, when you’re in the market, remember to see how you might be able to take advantage. Asking neighbors about their experiences or contractors they used is always a smart idea, as well.

Jonathan Susser is a content developer for Advanced Energy in Raleigh.

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Scenes

A gallery of your

best photos

Thanks for all of the annual photo contest entries! The judges chose from hundreds of photos of people and places throughout NC. In addition to these images, we’ll run more as the “Photo of the Week” on our website (carolinacountry.com/potw). Our Facebook and Instagram pages also routinely showcase reader photos.

—The editors  Cherry and Elsie and Fiona and Jolene | Four of our Scottish Highlands (Cherry, Elsie, Fiona and Jolene) were enjoying a cool summer evening with a Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop at Crooked Creek Highlands (Canadian wildfire haze in the background.).

Megan White, Hamptonville Photo by Maggie Shore, GoldenRust Photography  The Cowboy Poet | This is T.C. Carter, a poet from Four Oaks, performing at the Selma Open Mic at Old Fashioned Ice Cream. Known as the Cowboy Poet, four of his poems were recently published in the 2024 edition of “County Lines: A Literary Journal.”

Cindy Brookshire, Pine Level  Old Glory & the Barn | It was high summer as I drove past our neighbor’s beautiful pasture. On this day, I only saw our majestic Stars and Stripes and wondered about the memories made in and around that barn in Lansing. Simple beauty, simple life.

Joy Cook, Lansing, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

16 | January 2024

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 A Bee’s and Butterfly’s Delight | My husband, Ira Preston Steele, took this photo of his sunflower field beside our house.

Wanda Steele, Carthage, a member of Randolph EMC Photo by Ira Preston Steele  Assassin Fly .

Frank Ellison, Lewisville, a member of EnergyUnited  Age Sure Don’t Mean Quit | My 86-year-old dad, Carroll Jones, loves to be out in the field working. Age may slow him down but it sure don’t mean quit. Thankful he is still able to be out on his tractor doing what he loves best. Blessed beyond measure.

Donna Jones Turner, Bostic, a member of Rutherford EMC, Photo by my niece Heather Spencer

 Buck Hikes Hanging Rock | Buck enjoys the view while hiking at Hanging Rock State Park.

Casey Hicks, Danbury, a member of EnergyUnited

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 Sharing Secrets Some favorite North Carolina pastimes include sharing secrets and watching birds out the window of the old cabin.

Rebecca Yarbrough, Mocksville, a member of EnergyUnited

 The Star of the Show | My family and I went to Lake Gaston for vacation, but this time with a new member joining us. My sweet, Amir l, was the star of the show. This day, he was having a tough time getting settled, but was immediately soothed in the arms of his dad.

Maddy Stetler, Wake Forest  Little Bit | Several rumors spread regarding a mysterious cub wandering around an NC wildlife refuge. It was clear he was too small to be on his own. But day by day, he learned to forage for food. Locals even nicknamed him “Little Bit.” Karah Vaughn, Franklinton  Country Cotton Sunset | The vibrant sky over the cottonfield was so mesmerizing, I had to stop and snap some pictures. Nothing beats a beautiful country sunset during harvest season in North Carolina..

Mindy Skocz, Williamston, a member of Edgecombe-Martin County EMC

18 | January 2024

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 Monkey See You Communicating at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro.

Louann Fields, Rockingham, a member of Pee Dee Electric  “Bubbly” Backyard Shenanigans | In our backyard, my 13-year-old son, Henry, and I were simply enjoying the sweet summertime..

April Kettering, Winston-Salem, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

 Shake It Off This willet just finished a bath in the Outer Banks surf and gave himself a good shake. I never get tired of watching shorebirds at the Outer Banks.

Kim Steffan, Mebane, Piedmont Electric Cooperative

rs us cub dlife o small day, he ocals Bit.”

| The eld was p and beats uring lina..

member ty EMC

 Field Aflame | This is a beautiful cornfield in our backyard in Millingport (Stanly County). It is very important that we preserve our farmlands.

Jeremy Lowder, Albemarle

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 “Nellie” Jelly | Famous to the grands and neighbors alike for her “Nellie” jelly, my 94-year-old mother looks forward to beating the deer to her sweet white scuppernong grapes. Here she checks to see if it is ‘harvest time’ on the farm in Fayetteville where she has lived since 1962.

Yvonne Wheeler, Fayetteville, a member of South River EMC

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Carolina People

On the Shoulders of Giants

Ken Peacock built a legacy by putting students first

By Jacob Brooks

Josh Brooks

Jacob Brooks enjoying life on St. Croix.

Appalachian State University

“People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” There is debate on who said it first. I’ve always heard it to be Maya Angelou. That’s more than fine by me.

And I feel these words-to-live-by sum up another big-spirited North Carolinian, former Appalachian State University Chancellor Dr. Kenneth “Ken” Peacock.

I’m not sure how I got so lucky; Ken took a liking to me. A first-generation college student himself from Rocky Mount, I think he appreciated my stories about a family who knew four-part harmonies and singing in churches, juxtaposed with stories about bootleggin’, lawn mower racin’, and, dear reader, my adolescent pyromania.

Ken delighted in the idiosyncrasies of life. Light mischief was a welcome element to time spent with him. He loved a well-timed one-liner. Sometimes one had to wonder if they’d entered an alternate dimension and were in a scene from the The Bob Newhart Show or Sanford & Son with some of his antics. Our shared appreciation for pranks kept us passing a grotesquely packaged chicken foot back and forth.

Beyond the hijinks and laughs I think he saw a kid who needed a little guidance. Ken showed me to how to properly wear a suit. Gave me pointers on tying a solid Windsor knot. Taught me how to conduct myself in a boardroom.

Ken and his wife, Rosanne, took me, my brother Josh, and another App State buddy, Tyler Hunsader, to a fine-dining restaurant in Boone. This was my first experience having a meal where the sides were individually priced from the entrée. I was either 21 or 22. While my eyes frantically danced around the menu seeking the cheapest options I could find, I’ll never forget the steady

Dr. Kenneth “Ken” Peacock

hand extended my way from Ken, tactfully done while Rosanne, Josh, and Tyler were engaged in conversation, and done so to say, “It’s okay. We’ve got you.” Again, something perhaps a young Rocky Mount boy who stood on the shoulders of giants before knew to do for a young Alleghany boy, knowing he’d eventually do the same.

We talked about our faith. We shared a special affection for the hymn, “Precious Memories.” Our regular phone calls covered, again, the important things: family. He always told me the latest tales of his grandkids: Jacob, Piper, Allie, Price and Reynolds. He enjoyed his view as a grandpa, telling me, “You know, I’m getting to watch Brian and Chris do things with their children that I did with them. And that’s special to me.”

And, in those moments when I felt like I was less than I hoped to be, Ken was there for me.

Ken passed away in October at the age of 75. He belongs to the ages now, but, as is the nature of Appalachian folklore, his legend lives on.

So, North Carolina, as we head into 2024, let us stand on the shoulders of some fellow giants of North Carolina history, who, in their own way, always served something a little bit bigger than themselves.

As for me, in July I left North Carolina for the U.S. Virgin Islands, and life on St. Croix is good. I decided to go back to teaching for a bit and have accepted a position with the Virgin Islands Dept of Education as a reading specialist for kids with autism. To be totally candid, I think I’m going through one of those personal and professional crossroads. We’ll see what happens. As always, thanks for reading, North Carolina.

Jacob Brooks is missing the Blue Ridge Mountains. He’s watching a lot of Perkins Builder Brothers these days. He’s working on his first book.

20 | January 2024

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Advertising published in Carolina Country is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to customers at the advertised price. All ads must adhere to Carolina Country’s advertising policy, which can be found in our media kit at carolinacountry.com/advertise/MediaKit. The magazine, North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc., and the member cooperatives do not necessarily endorse the products or services advertised. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading is never knowingly accepted. Should you encounter advertising that does not comply with these standards, please inform Carolina Country at 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616. 919-875-3091.

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Carolina Kitchen

Sweet Heat Sticky Belly Burnt Ends Did you know pork belly is just unsmoked, uncured bacon?! So if you eat bacon, you eat belly. Cook up a bunch of this “pork candy” to nibble during a football game or anytime.

4 pounds pork belly (unsalted), skin removed and cut into 1½-inch cubes ¾ cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons paprika Dry rub 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper ²⁄₃ cup brown sugar, packed Zest of 1 large orange 2 teaspoons chili powder Warm Sticky Belly Drizzle 1 tablespoon granulated garlic ½ cup honey 1 tablespoon granulated onion ½ cup melted butter 1 tablespoon crushed brown mustard seeds Juice of the zested orange 1 tablespoon black pepper 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper Lightly coat belly with oil. Drain excess.

Combine dry rub ingredients in a large bowl and toss with belly cubes. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight, tossing periodically.

Sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. Heat wok or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly coat with oil. Sear belly in small batches, turning as each side gets nicely charred and a little burnt, being careful not to crowd in skillet.

Combine all drizzle ingredients in a small bowl. At serving time, drizzle burnt ends and serve extra for dipping.

Yield: About 8 servings, depending on your crowd and other foods

From Your Kitchen Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes Soft and lightly spiced, these little donut holes are technically mini muffins, packed with the power of pumpkin, and baked rather than fried. We tried them with powdered sugar, but recommend sticking to good ol’ cinnamon/sugar.

1¾ cups flour ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon ground allspice ¹⁄₈ teaspoon ground cloves 2 teaspoons baking powder ²⁄₃ teaspoon salt ¾ cup pumpkin purée ½ cup milk ½ cup brown sugar ¹⁄₃ cup coconut oil 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¼ cup butter, melted Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil a mini muffin pan.

Recipe courtesy of Debbie Buell of Wake Forest, a member of Wake Electric.

In a large bowl, combine flour, spices, baking powder and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, milk, brown sugar, oil, egg and vanilla.

Pour mixture over dry ingredients and stir just until just moist.

Scoop the batter into the muffin tray.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean.

Combine cinnamon and sugar.

Cool for 2 minutes and dip into melted butter. Roll in the cinnamonsugar mixture and finish cooling.

Yield: 24 donut holes

Submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe.

Contributors whose recipes are published will receive $25.

Juicy Beans & Greens Ladled over toast

Nothing like spooning up a rustic dish of simply prepared beans for a hearty meatless meal. Or add a scoop of our pork belly burnt ends — this is stick-to-your-ribs wintertime food!

6 tablespoons avocado or olive oil 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 3–4 large garlic cloves, minced ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon sage 1 teaspoon white pepper 2 cups vegetable broth 1 can (15-ounce) navy beans, undrained 1 can (15-ounce) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (14-ounce) diced tomatoes with peppers and onions 1 package (5-ounce) fresh spinach, roughly chopped Juice and zest of 1 small lemon 1 loaf rustic bread, 1-inch thick slices Additional oil Fresh cilantro, chopped Cheese, grated (we used smoked gouda) Heat oil with butter over medium heat in large skillet until butter melts. Add onion and cook 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 3 minutes more until lightly browned.

Stir in seasonings, broth, beans and tomatoes. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to boil for 2 minutes. Reduce to a slow simmer and cook for about 5 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in spinach, lemon juice and zest. Stir until spinach is wilted. Taste and add salt if needed.

Brush both sides of bread with oil.

Toast until crispy.

Spoon juicy beans over toast in bowls.

Drizzle with oil. Scatter with cilantro and grated cheese. Enjoy immediately.

Yield: 4–6 servings Recipes by Wendy Perry unless otherwise noted. Learn more about Wendy at WendysHomeEconomics.com.

Digital Extra Visit carolinacountry.com/recipes to search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient.

22 | January 2024

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The stainless steel multitool offers wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, a set of screwdrivers, a pair of pliers and much more. The powerful flashlight has three different settings, and the tactical loop watch is a reliable, water-resistant timepiece that clips to your hip and never leaves your side. All told, opening the Survival Box gives you instant access to nine different tools for JUST $19.50.

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Regularly sold for $99, we’re offering this collection of survival essentials to you for A FIFTH OF THE NORMAL PRICE! Why? Because we’ve had an incredible year and we feel like giving back to our valued customers. As this kit has proven to be one of our all-time best sellers, we can only extend this offer while supplies last. Of our initial run of 1,737, more than half have already sold.

Your move, Mother Nature.

Survival Box Specifications: • Multitool: 3 1/4" x 1" folded • Flashlight: 3 1/2" x 1", 260 lumens, takes AA batteries (not included), three LED light modes: strong, medium and caution flashing • Watch: 2 3/4" x 1", battery type SR626SW (included) Survival Box $99 $19.50* + S+P Save $79.50 *You must use Insider Offer Code: SVB195-01 to get this price.

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January Events

JAN. 15

Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade The North Carolina Museum of History

JAN. 27

African American Cultural Celebration Contributions to NC’s history and culture NC Museum of History, Raleigh

West Broad Street, Elizabethtown 910-876-7905 JAN. 17–18

On Your Feet!

The story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham 919-680-2787 JAN. 27

African American Cultural Celebration

NOV. 17, 2023–JAN. 14, 2024

NOV. 24, 2023–MARCH 31, 2024

JAN. 13

Chinese Lantern Festival

Winter Wine & Beer Passport

Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary 919-462-2025

Standard Street, Elkin 336-526-1111

Celebrating the Legacy Through the Arts

NOV. 23, 2023–JAN. 6, 2024

JAN. 2–7

OBXmas

Girl from the North Country

Light displays, bar pop-ups, holiday markets 1 Visitors Center Circle, Manteo 252-473-2138

Broadway musical Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham 919-680-2787

NOV. 24, 2023–JAN. 28, 2024

JAN. 12–15

Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort

Martin Luther King, Jr. Dreamfest

Chetola Resort, Blowing Rock 828-295-5500

Collection of events celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Various locations, Cary 919-469-4069

Visual art, open mic poetry, arts and crafts W.D. Hill Recreation Center, Durham 919-560-4292

Dan Tyminski Band Bluegrass performance Appalachian Theatre of the High Country 828-865-3000

Contributions to NC’s history and culture NC Museum of History, Raleigh 919-814-7000 JAN. 27–28

Snow Fest Snow tube merry-go-round, snow slide, ice skating Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, Highlands 828-526-2112

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 Jan. 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.

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

November’s winner The November “Where Is This” photo by Rutherford EMC member Joan Moore features this whimsical statue of children reading books. “Story Time,” created by Gary Price, is located in front of the Cannon Memorial Library on Union Street in downtown Concord in Cabarrus County.

Readers guessed similar style statues from across the state, including Blowing Rock, Pinehurst, Greenville and the campuses of Appalachian State, High Point University, UNC-Chapel Hill and UNC-Wilmington. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Magdalena Jusino of Concord, a Union Power Cooperative member.

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Di M of

12/11/23 1:13 PM

Discover the Spirited Story of Stock Car Racing and Down-Home Distilling

?

Discover North Carolina’s NEW Moonshine and Motorsports Trail and experience our state’s history of perseverance and innovation like never before.

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Winter storm ready.

NCElectricCooperatives.com

When icy weather strikes, North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are here for you. This winter, our dedicated local teams are ready to respond to keep your family warm and connected.

Powering a Brighter Future, no matter the weather.

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SAY GOODBYE

to traditional billing with Pay as you go with our FlexPay program. You purchase electricity in any amount you need, in advance. Maintain a positive account balance to keep power flowing.

FlexPay offers payments you can plan for!

Pay as you go and keep an eye on your electric use.

Recharge your account by phone, online, at our kiosks or district offices.

No deposit required and no program fees.

Stay on track, thanks to notifications.

Enroll today at BlueRidgeEnergy.com/FlexPay. Blue Ridge-0124 WRAP.indd 3

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Winter Temps Keep Your Heating System

WORKING OVERTIME

Frigid temps strain your heating system. As the outdoor temperature drops, your system puts in overtime hours working harder to keep the indoors comfortable based on your thermostat setting. This is true for all systems, regardless of their fuel source.

That extra effort from your heating system shows up when you get the energy bill that covers a cold spell.

It’s the biggest culprit of energy bill spikes. But here are a few of many things you can do to help control your heating bill.

KEEP HEAT IN AND COLD AIR OUT — Seal air drafts around doors and windows using weatherstripping and exterior door sweeps.

BALANCE THE INDOORS — Few people want to turn down the thermostat, but it does give you the opportunity to wear that favorite sweater or socks.

Keep the indoor temperature at a comfortable setting, but know that every degree lower on your thermostat can decrease the cost of heating by 2% to 5%.

If you increase a heat pump thermostat setting, do so by two or three degrees at a time. That helps avoid activating the emergency (and expensive) heat strip.

THINK ABOUT YOUR WINDOWS — Open window coverings on sunny days to let in solar warmth. Keep curtains and blinds closed when it’s dark outside.

Fight winter’s impact on bills with Usage Tracker!

See how weather highs and lows affect your daily electricity use.

Help lower your energy bills by identifying which appliances around the house have the biggest impact on your bills.

Set alerts for when you exceed a daily usage amount to help you know when and where you could cut back to save on your bill.

You can take it with you on the Blue Ridge Energy Mobile App. Or, get it at “My Account” at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.

FOR MORE TIPS, VISIT BLUERIDGEENERGY.COM/SAVE. Blue Ridge-0124 WRAP.indd 4

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