2026-07-BEMC

July 2026

The magazine of

Where the Once Roamed Published by

FEATURE

Test your know-how with NC Revolutionary War trivia BRUNSWICK ELECTRIC

Local students awarded college scholarships PERIODICAL

2026-07-Cov.indd 5

6/10/2026 2:22:42 PM

THERE’S A TREASURE IN YOUR BACKYARD You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy.

A WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system taps into the stored solar energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. That’s money in the bank and a smart investment in your family’s comfort.

Scan below to learn how to tap into your buried treasure WATCH

5 Reasons Geo is Best

CALCULATE

Savings Calculator

TALK

Chat with a geo professional

visit us at waterfurnace.com WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

CC07_JA.indd 2

6/8/2026 8:53:09 AM

and the

founding of our nation July 2026

nc 250

trivia

16

2026

8

20 FAVORITES

2 From Our Readers

8 Where the Bison Once Roamed An American icon’s return to NC

4 Up Front 6 Your Power

Carolina and the 16 North Founding of Our Nation Test your history chops with this revolutionary trivia

20

15 On the House 18 Carolina Adventures 19 Carolina Calendar

Carolina’s Finest: 2026 Finalists

22 Carolina Kitchen

The nominations are in, and it’s time to vote on the finest NC has to offer

24 Snapshots 24 Where is This?

ON THE COVER

The bison, our national mammal, once grazed over at least 40 present-day states, including North Carolina. Although wild herds haven’t roamed our state since the late 1700s, protected herds have been introduced—including at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, served

by Randolph EMC. Learn more on page 8.

If you spot this icon, there's more to see online. Visit our website or scan this QR code to access extra recipes, an event map and more!

SCAN TO READ

carolinacountry.com | 1

CC07_JA.indd 1

6/9/2026 2:22:40 PM

READER | LETTERS THIS MONTH

Celebrating 250 Years For as long as I knew him, my late father had a beard. Legend has it he first grew it in for our country’s 200th anniversary in 1976, when “bicentennial beards” were a thing—plenty were shaved off come August, but his stuck. Although I haven’t heard much about a similar trend this year (maybe “semiquincentennial beard” is just too much of a mouthful), there are plenty of unique celebrations going on around the country and right here in North Carolina. We’ve dedicated this issue to joining in the celebration. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 58, No. 7

Published monthly by

®

NC Electric Cooperatives

3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950 Scott Gates, CCC Editor Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor Rue Reynold Editorial Assistant

—Scott Gates, editor

Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer

FROM OUR READERS

Tara Verna Creative Services Associate

Community Resource I'm very happy to read your article about Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) across North Carolina (“Ready to Serve,” page 8, May 2026). CERTs can be a vital, educated resource for more immediate services in many situations. I served on the Teton County, Wyoming, CERT for 11 years, learned many skills, and assisted with response to a variety of situations. Thank you to all CERT members and everyone who manages and trains them.

Donna Natosi Digital Strategist Dan Tomkiewicz Advertising Dan@carolinacountry.com Amadou Fall Executive Vice President & CEO Kristie Aldridge, CCC Senior Vice President & COO

Anpeytu Neier, Enfield, a member of Halifax EMC

Warren Kessler Director of Brand Strategy

June Issue Delights This is the first time I have ever found so many fascinating articles in your magazine and I have enjoyed every one! Thank you for such interesting and informative articles. The governor, oyster farming, snorkeling in our rivers, easy efficiency, making waves, and “I Remember” — they were delightful! Well done!

Patty Kribbs, Raleigh, a member of Wake Electric

C

RE

E

AD

NB OR CIPRE

Joe Hobby’s Kitchen Secrets

N

S

For some reason I RE O VELATI missed “Cornbread ed Kitchen Secrets Expos Recipe Revelations”

by Joe Hobby back in 2024 (page 22, December 2024).

I read it today and here’s where it started: “I felt like a student at Hogwarts who had been told there was no such thing as magic.” And then I couldn't stop laughing for the rest of the article. Brilliant and fun! by

By Joe Hob

22 | December 2024

Thanks to Lori Gibby of Lincolnton, a member of Rutherford EMC, for sharing this adorable photo of a young reader!

Joy Martin, Hope Mills, A member of South River EMC

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.

Who was one of your most inspiring teachers? Share your stories with us by July 15 and we'll pay $50 for those published in our September issue.

Visit carolinacountry.com/carolina-voices to learn more.

S

Contact us Phone:

919-875-3091

Mail:

3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

Web:

carolinacountry.com

Email:

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

•

All content © Carolina Country unless otherwise indicated.

Social:

*

C

1

O editor@carolinacountry.com

Change of address: Please contact your electric co-op or go online to carolinacountry.com/address Experiencing a power outage?

Please contact your electric co-op directly to ensure prompt service.

Visit carolinacountry.com/co-ops to find yours online.

2 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 2

S S B

6/10/2026 12:54:27 PM

Y

* p

tives

Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction enturies ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.

m

EO

O

a bers ings ries legal media at

scription at a cost of

ear.

as a t of ally

nal mailing , NC emark of ves, Inc.

7.4.12.5); dress d., Raleigh,

icated.

m

B.

ONLY $99

On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.

e

ble, safe and usinesses. ned, noted by the

26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise

C

-2950

We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection. Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99.

C.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

A.

The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!

Jewelry Specifications: • Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings

Sedona Turquoise Collection A. Pendant (26 cts) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 Complete Set** $747 * $249 +s&p Save $498 **Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.

Call now and mention the offer code to receive your collection.

1-800-333-2045 Offer Code SDT197-01

You must use the offer code to get our special price.

Rating of A+

*Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.

14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. SDT197-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

CC07_JA.indd 3

Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color

S t a u e r … A f f o r d th e Ex tr a o r d i n a r y.®

6/4/2026 1:32:01 PM

UP | FRONT

A Shared History to be Proud of

By Scott Gates

We have a lot to celebrate this year. Most obvious successes, inspiring stories and good recipes from to this month’s issue is the 250th anniversary of our communities. Perhaps more importantly, our nation’s independence, launching the great though, it’s a way for your electric cooperative “American experiment” that we are all a part of to provide regular updates — including notices of today. What’s interesting to our community of board elections and annual meetings — in a timely, Carolina Country readers is how the governing cost-effective way. philosophies that shaped our nation influenced Thanks to economies of scale and postage rates the creation of electric cooperatives more than a available to our type of publication , everything century later. it takes to get Carolina Country into your In May, electric co-ops celebrated the 90th mailbox each month — from the work our staff anniversary of the Rural Electrification Act does, to printing, paper and postage — costs (REA), which provided low-cost federal loans less than the price of a postage stamp. That’s for building electric pretty remarkable. distribution systems in It’s then our goal to It’s inspiring to rural areas. It empowered make the most of these think about, though member-owned electric combined efforts to co-ops and helped revive ensure each issue meets not surprising that rural America’s economy in the trusted expectations folks without electricity the wake of the Great of 80 years of service. banded together to get Depression. It’s inspiring To that end, we made things done and strung the to think about, though not some changes you surprising that rural folks may have noticed last lines themselves. without electricity banded month, starting with the together to get things done magazine design. and strung the lines themselves.

We’re using a cleaner look to better showcase At a recent ceremony in Washington, D.C., photos and stories, echoing the style of the new commemorating the birth of electric co-ops, the carolinacountry.com. We’re also focusing on local administrator of the Rural Utilities Service — the advertising, so you may notice fewer ads, but predecessor to what was born from the REA — held likely ads more relevant to your interests. up a copy of “The Next Greatest Thing.” This 1984 And of course, we’re making room for more book provides a history of the first 50 years of reader-submitted stories and photos, like the rural electrification. I have a copy on my desk. And ever-popular I Remember, Carolina Voices and as it happens, the nationally acclaimed book was Snapshots sections. We love hearing your stories, edited by Richard “Dick” Pence, a former editor so please keep them coming (our contact inforof (drumroll please) Carolina Country magazine. mation is listed on page 2).

That brings me to yet another anniversary I hope you enjoy this issue and many more to to celebrate: 80 years of our magazine serving come. I speak on behalf of all of us at Carolina members of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives.

Country when I say it is our pleasure to serve you What started as Carolina Farmer magazine in 1946 on behalf of your electric co-op, reporting on the has grown into the publication you hold in your communities we call home. hands today. Why a magazine? For one, we all like Scott Gates is the editor of Carolina Country magazine and good news, and it provides a great way to share has been a member of an electric co-op for almost 20 years.

4 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 4

6/10/2026 12:56:48 PM

Your electric Co-op powers your home.

We power your financial life. $1 funds your membership to join this member-owned financial cooperative.

Built for you. Designed to do more with your money every day.

JOIN TODAY

ElecTel.org • 800.849.5600 3400 Sumner Blvd, Raleigh NC 27616 See credit union for details. Federally insured by NCUA.

LeafFilter® accepts 200% more water than competitors +

LeafFilter®

Common hood style

America’s #1 gutter protection

*

Scientifically tested and proved, see how LeafFilter stacks up against other leading options — and why it’s trusted by over 1 million homeowners.

LeafFilter®

Common hood style

Does not disturb shingles

Can disturb shingles/ void warranty

Attaches to existing gutters

New gutters required

Professional installation

Installation methods can vary

Aesthetic profile

Larger, bulkier profile

Offer expires 8/31/2026

Call today for your free gutter inspection

1-877-811-3664

CC07_JA.indd 5

Special discount! – Save up to**

25% off

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Get free estimate

LeafFilter.com/Countrysolved – Promo: 73 +Based on 6/12 pitch vs. hood-style competitors. *The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America. **Based on 6/12 pitch vs. hood-style competitors. **Promotional offer includes 15% off plus an additional 10% off for qualified veterans and/or seniors. Cannot be combined with any other offers. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. See representative for full warranty details.

6/4/2026 1:32:21 PM

YOUR | POWER

NC Electric Co-ops Advocate for Rural Communities at Rally in Raleigh Josh Conner

In May, leaders from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives gathered in Raleigh to meet with their local legislators and discuss policy priorities important to the 2.8 million North Carolinians served by the state’s 26 electric cooperatives.

Conversations provided lawmakers with insights into the needs and opportunities facing rural communities across the state.

Representatives from Rutherford EMC and North Carolina's “For cooperatives, sitting down face-to-face with our legisElectric Cooperatives met with State Senator Tim Moffitt. lators is vital,” said Jordan Hildreth, CEO of Lilesville-based Pee Dee Electric. “It allows us to share the real-world effects that policy has on the daily lives of our members, advocate for For electric cooperatives, these policy discussions are member-focused solutions and ensure that decisions reflect deeply connected to the communities they serve and call the needs of the members we serve.” home. The issues being discussed at the legislature directly More than 140 representatives impact rural communities across from electric cooperatives across the North Carolina. When co-op leaders Advocating for our state met with members of the North advocate for reliable energy policy members is one Carolina General Assembly during and infrastructure investment, they of the most important the event. As North Carolina’s energy advocate not only for their members, needs continue to grow, electric coopbut for a brighter future of their own responsibilities we have as communities. eratives are focused on solutions that an electric cooperative.”

“Advocating for our members is one ensure long-term reliability and affordof the most important responsibilities ability for members. we have as an electric cooperative,” Howell said. “Events like “These conversations matter because the topics being Rally in Raleigh give us the opportunity to meet directly with discussed — from energy reliability and affordability to elected officials and share how legislative and energy policy infrastructure and future power supply — directly affect our decisions impact the families, businesses and rural communimembers’ quality of life,” said Winston Howell, CEO of Tarboro-based Edgecombe-Martin County EMC. “It’s importties we serve every day. ant that rural communities have a strong voice at the table, and —Josh Conner, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives we are proud to represent and advocate for the best interests of our members.”

MADE ON CO-OP LINES | FOUR COUNTY EMC

Supporting Music on the Global Stage internationally recognized manufacturer is one of the greatest economic development success stories in our region,” said Jimmy Smith, director of Economic & Community Development for Four County EMC. “Through strong collaboration between Four County EMC, Pender Progress Corporation, Pender County, the Town of Burgaw, and community partners, Mojotone was able to remain and grow in Pender County, proving that rural North Carolina can compete on a global stage.”

Past customers include Rush; Eric

Mojotone

Mojotone, served by Four County EMC, has been named Exporter of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The company was founded in WinstonSalem in 2000 and makes amplifiers, sound system cabinetry and components for electric guitars.

A $1 million loan through USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program facilitated by Four County EMC helped the company relocate to Pender Progress Industrial Park almost 10 years ago.

“Mojotone’s journey from a small mail-order business in Burgaw to an

Clapton; ZZ Top; Garth Brooks; Keith Urban; and Burgaw native Audley Freed, a guitarist for Sheryl Crow, The Black Crowes and other bands.

6 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 6

6/9/2026 9:12:48 AM

s

YOUR | POWER

Tech Leader Named COO of Power Supply Co-op North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives has named Chris VanLokeren as chief operating officer (COO) of North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC). NCEMC is an electric generation and transmission cooperative with more than 4,500 MW of owned and purchased power serving the full wholesale power needs of 20 of the state’s local distribution cooperatives and partial power needs of five (learn more at carolinacountry.com/about-nc-co-ops).

VanLokeren has served as the chief information officer of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives since 2018. He will succeed Amadou Fall, who was recently appointed executive vice president and CEO of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. In his new role, VanLokeren will be responsible for strategic leadership of NCEMC’s core operations, including portfolio management, energy delivery, energy innovation and asset management.

“Chris has been a driving force behind our organization’s technology, operations and resilience, and I’m thrilled to welcome him into this critical leadership role,” said Fall. “He understands how to align people, systems and innovation to deliver value for our

QUICK HITS

members. I am confident he will help position NCEMC for continued reliability, growth and success in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.”

Since joining North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, VanLokeren has implemented a strategy focused on data management, thoughtful software and platform integration, and cybersecurity.

Through innovative partnerships, the organization has enabled leading-edge programs, such as distributed energy resource management, recognizing that technology will remain a critical driver of transformation in the energy industry.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” VanLokeren said. “Thanks to our member electric co-ops, we have been national leaders on technology and innovation. My focus is on delivering results today, moving with purpose, and building for the future in an everchanging energy landscape.”

® STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD! North Carolina law bans motorists from sending or reading text or email messages while driving. ® BIG BIRTHDAY | Find Independence Day celebrations around the state on page 18, and if you celebrate at home, do so without fireworks that explode, spin or leave the ground (illegal in NC). ® ONE IN A BILLION | July 4 is also International Cooperative Day—as a member of an electric co-op, you’re one of more than 1 billion co-op members worldwide. ® COOL WINDOWS | During summer, keep south- and west-facing blinds and curtains closed during the day to block the sun’s heat..

Source: energy.gov

carolinacountry.com | 7

CC07_JA.indd 7

6/9/2026 2:27:23 PM

Where the Once Roamed

AN AMERICAN ICON’S

RETURN TO NC

BY LORI GROSSMAN

Usually, we think of our national mammal, the bison, wandering the Great Plains. But they were once native to North Carolina — numerous enough to leave a legacy in many places bearing their name. Over 40 North Carolina place names include “buffalo” in some form, with creeks named “Little Buffalo” in Cabarrus, Ashe, Graham, Lee and Johnston counties. There’s a “Big Buffalo Creek” in Lee County, and too many named “Buffalo Creek” to list here.

These awe-inspiring animals once roamed American grasslands — including North Carolina — in the millions.

Then they were hunted and slaughtered almost to the brink of extinction. To add insult to injury, they’re not even known by their proper name! (“Buffalo” are a different species native to Asia and Africa.)

According to the Meherrin Tribe (headquartered in Ahoskie), members of the Cherokee Tribe in Western North Carolina gave a “dressed buffalo skin” to Hernando de Soto’s men in 1540. Other sightings were recorded in the 1600s and 1700s, mostly in the Piedmont and Mountain areas.

Bison have humps and large heads that help them plow

through snow to find grass. Also, bison have heavy, shaggy coats that are shed in the spring and summer. Native Americans depended on bison as a food source and used the hides for clothing and shelter. When Native Americans were forced to leave their homelands, the bison population dwindled, too. A marker at milepost 373 of the Blue Ridge Parkway commemorates the place where Swannanoa Valley settler Joseph Rice shot the last bison in 1799.

A little over 100 years later, the American Bison Society attempted to reintroduce bison in Buncombe County. The herd consisted of three males and three females. Only two remained by the late 1920s, and the effort was called a failure. But failure would prove to be only temporary as other herds have since been established around the state, including in Person and Randolph counties.

The North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro Located approximately 85 miles northeast of Charlotte in Randolph County, the NC Zoo officially opened on Aug. 13, 1976. It’s the largest natural habitat zoo in the world and home to a small herd of bison.

The first three bison arrived at the zoo on Oct. 17, 1974, from their previous home at Fort Niobrara National

8 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 8

6/9/2026 2:29:39 PM

Sunset Ridge Bison Farm North Carolina Zoo

-

VisitNC.com

n

Visitors take a tractor-ride tour at Sunset Ridge Bison Farm.

Watch a video from the NC Zoo to learn more about how Annie the bison learned to wear a fly mask.

Wildlife Refuge in Nebraska. There are six females in the current herd that roams the Prairie Habitat. Trained staff called keepers feed, train the animals and monitor their health. Keepers also share insights into bison behavior with zoo guests. Keeper Robin enjoys building relationships with the bison.

“All of them have unique personalities and it is fun to get to learn their quirks,” she says. “They live in a matriarchal herd, and everyone has their place in it.”

Keeper Robin also played an important role when one of the bison needed help. “[Bison] Annie has seasonal allergies and gets very itchy eyes [which developed small cuts and attracted flies].

Keepers trained Annie to voluntarily wear a fly mask to help with this,” Robin explains. “Wearing the mask keeps her from scratching her face, plus keeps flies away. We got the largest sized fly mask made to fit a draft horse and modified it for Annie.”

It took lots of patience (and grain) to train Annie to wear her new mask. And like human allergy sufferers, she takes medication. She just takes lots more than we do.

Sunset Ridge Bison Farm, Roxboro Jack and Sandy Pleasant’s 260-acres have been in the family for 200 years. Old documents reference bison living in the Hyco Creek bottoms in 1728. Deeds dating to the late 1700s mention “buffalo wallows” as landmarks for surveyors.

Sunset Ridge Bison Farm acquired eight head of bison in 2001. It was the fulfillment of a dream that Jack first visualized in 1964 when he saw a herd of bison while backpacking in New Mexico. Jack and Sandy brought bison back to land where the majestic mammals had lived for hundreds of years.

So bison have returned to Person County. Jack leads tours and looks after the herd of about 100 bison. He had done his due diligence and prepared for their arrival, but says that one thing surprised him.

“Though the literature tells you a bison can clear a six-foot fence from a standing position, you understand it differently when your 1,850-pound bison bull jumps the gate in front of you!”

July is National Bison Month, so why not dress cool, pack some water, and go visit some bison?

Freelance writer Lori Grossman currently lives in Texas but carries memories of North Carolina in her heart.

carolinacountry.com | 9

CC07_JA.indd 9

6/10/2026 8:47:19 PM

Generational Wealth A future for generations to come

469

$

ea.

Minimum order of 5 coins

GENERATIONAL WEALTH is of paramount significance as it represents a beacon of

financial stability. It serves as a tangible testament to the hard work, diligence, and financial acumen of previous generations, offering a solid foundation upon which future generations can build their dreams and aspirations.

American Gold Reserve is releasing Government issued $5 Gold American Eagles completely free of dealer mark-up for only $469 each. These beautiful $5 Gold American Eagles are a perfect way to enter the gold market. They are set for immediate public release and will sell out fast.

PR32-5488

CHECKS

24 hours - 7 days a week

1-866-852-3346

• Free of dealer markup.

• Protection against inflation and deflation.

• Gold offers financial cover during geopolitical uncertainty.

• Good portfolio diversifier.

GOLD RESERVE

Strict limit of 10 per household, per lifetime. For new clients only. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice due to market conditions.

AGR_CarolinaCountry-7_875_x_10_875 - 06242026- VC-PR325488.indd 1 CC07_JA.indd 10

5/26/2026 12:16:09 PM 6/4/2026 1:32:50 PM

🁆

July 2026

BRIGHT IDEAS EDUCATION GRANTS SPOTLIGHT:

Firing Up Inspiration

J

eff Rudnik holds several master’s degrees in higher education, and worked in colleges for 10 years before pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching so he could do what he loves most – getting high school students excited about art. A professional artist himself, he has been teaching visual arts at East Columbus High School since 2019 and also serves as the chair of the arts department. Jeff has brought in more than $22,000 in grants to better serve the students at ECHS. “Due to a confluence of circumstances, I was able to choose the high school in the system where I would teach. I chose ECHS because it seemed that the arts department had been left behind. There were no materials, the stage was stacked with storage, and the sound system didn’t work. I started

writing grants to get things going.

Arts is a graduation requirement, and students can choose from band, chorus, dance, theatre or visual arts.

There was no band or chorus teacher for a while, the dance program is wonderful, but guys don’t often want to do it, and theatre isn’t for everyone. So, the visual arts classes, including ceramics, filled up, and I wanted to make it a great experience.

The most recent grant I got from BEMC purchased a pug mill that helps us recycle clay. With ceramics, you try, mess up, throw the clay in a bucket, and repeat. A student can go through 20 pounds of clay in a class, and recycling by hand is a labor intensive process that takes several days and involves turning it back into sediment, pouring the water off the top, letting it evaporate until it thickens, then kneading it until it hardens enough to be malleable. The pug mill reduces the process to less than 30 minutes, and the quality is consistently good.

Getting kids involved in art makes their engagement with

school stronger; they look forward to coming to school to work on their projects, and the success they experience and the confidence they feel can be tremendous. Watching someone throw and throw, and all of a sudden they’ve made something they love, and they’re dancing around the room – it’s wonderful to see. And it’s always a great day when we’ve fired their work, and it’s time to open the kiln. It’s so much fun to watch their faces light up when they see what their finished pieces look like.

And the impact can be long lasting.

One student was in band, and we lost the teacher, so she came into ceramics.

She loved it, worked really hard, was in the ceramics room every spare moment she had, and began selling and displaying pieces. Now she’s going to UNC-Charlotte studying architecture, incorporating what she learned in ceramics, and is in the process of reviving their ceramics club. A little opportunity and inspiration can go a long way.

Brunswick Electric provides grants for up to $2,500 for innovative classroom projects that would otherwise go unfunded. Apply by Sept. 15 at bemc.org/bright-ideas-grants.

July 2026 | 11

Brunswick-0726.indd 11

6/9/26 3:16 PM

• MEMBER SPOTLIGHT •

3CRE8 Wreaths and Handicrafts Three successful, close adult siblings were making a saddle wreath to honor their beloved late mother on Mother’s Day in 2024. Stephanie Hilbourn, Al Nobles and Michelle Thompson were reminiscing and talking about what their mother would think about the wreath, when an idea emerged that would add an extra dimension of joy to their lives, and make future customers very happy. We asked them to tell us how, and about the creative process for their custom wreaths, door hangers, swags, and more.

“T

he three of us laugh a bunch, share a lot with each other, and just enjoy being together,” Al began. “The wreath for momma was coming along quite well, and I jokingly said that we should do this as a business.”

Michelle continued, “I told them you’re not going to believe this, but I was just talking to a nursing co-worker about how amazing it would be to work with the two of you because we all have the same work ethic. Stephanie said it had been on her mind as well.”

Stephanie owns Duncan’s Insurance, started by their mother in 1987. She and Michelle had been doing bows and florals for years, and had a booth at the county fair, but Al never thought of trying anything like that.

“Until the fall of 2023,” Al added.

“I’m a pharmacist, and we were redecorating the store, and really needed some new wreaths for our big double doors. I couldn’t find anything I liked, so on a whim I thought, maybe I could make them. I did, and customers started asking me if I could make some for them, and I did. By the time Mother’s Day came around the next year, I was hooked, and all three of us were ready to launch 3CRE8.”

They each bring their own expertise and style; Stephanie’s custom designs are more traditional and minimal, Al’s are big and bold, and Michelle specializes in painting signs, door hangers and all the things that round out their offerings. They begin each project by understanding the customer’s expectations and vision, and they all say that seeing the joy on the customer’s face when they’ve exceeded them, is why they love what they do.

“We’re very self-critical, and have

high expectations for our work,” Stephanie said. “It’s the best feeling when I’ve done something that people really like. There’s a little piece of us in everything we do, we’re very intentional – our slogan is ‘Art with Heart’.”

“Yes,” Al agreed. “A regular customer of mine normally gives me suggestions for what she wants, but last Christmas she said just do what you do. What I came up with included three cardinals, and her daughter picked it up and brought it to her. She called me and said, ‘you couldn’t have had any idea about the significance of those three cardinals, but I wanted to thank you, it’s very special’. I just love when that happens.”

3CRE8.com 922 S Madison St. Whiteville 910-333-6180 Facebook.com/3Cre8

12 | July 2026

Brunswick-0726.indd 12

Not signed up for Capital Credits? Call xxx-xxx-xxxx today to get started!

6/9/26 3:16 PM

Warm Homes, Warm Hearts: Neighbors Helping Neighbors Since 2008

B

EMC introduced Warm Homes, Warm Hearts, a community-based heating assistance program, at its Annual Meeting held on Sept. 20, 2008.

Partially in response to the recession, the co-op saw a need and developed the program to help solve it. BEMC employees kicked it off by raising nearly $12,000 through individual donations, raffles and a big yard sale. The co-op invited members to donate and pledged to match each dollar up to $50,000 annually for a potential fund of $100,000 to help our neighbors.

Nearly 20 years later, individual members and community groups continue to generously step up and donate each year, helping Warm Homes, Warm Hearts evolve into a year-round utility assistance program.

BEMC still matches donations, and funds are still administered by Brunswick Family Assistance and the Columbus County Department of Aging.

Marketing Director at the time, Linda Thomas, remembers, “Getting Warm Homes, Warm Hearts off the ground was so much fun, it was easy to get people excited about it. I remember seeing the envelopes from members coming in, sometimes there’d be a huge stack; one would have a two-dollar bill, the next would have a $300 check. It was great to see so many folks

participate. Sometimes they would enclose a note with their donation or make it in memory of someone – they all really cared about helping their neighbors.”

“After the first two or three years,” Linda continues, “different community groups would hold their own fundraisers or pool their own resources and make a donation together. That really gave us a boost, a real rise to the thermometer that we kept in the front of the building to keep the membership informed of how we were doing. And the employees remained very involved, raising money before each Annual Meeting to jump start that year’s campaign. It was and remains a truly community-driven program to this day.”

We’d like to thank all our members who continue to make Warm Homes, Warm Hearts work. If you’d like to contribute, as always, BEMC will match your donation.

Please make your check payable to Warm Homes, Warm Hearts and mail it to: WHWH Campaign, c/o BEMC, PO Box 826, Shallotte, NC 28459. Thank you!

“The Warm Homes, Warm Hearts program has been a lifeline for Brunswick County families in their darkest moments. Every dollar goes directly to keeping the lights on and the heat running, because for families on the edge, an unpaid utility bill isn't just an inconvenience, it's a threat to their health, their stability, and their overall well-being. Thanks to our partnership with BEMC, Brunswick Family Assistance is turning moments of crisis into stories of hope.” – Kyle Abrams, executive director, Brunswick Family Assistance

July 2026 | 13

Brunswick-0726.indd 13

6/9/26 3:16 PM

Congratulation to our 2026 College Tuition Scholarship Winners!

Every year, the co-op awards a $2,000 scholarship to a high school senior in each of Brunswick and Columbus County high schools, and to outstanding seniors who live in our service territory but attend other high schools. Applications are available in mid-December, and the deadline to apply is mid-March. More information is available at bemc.org/scholarship-highway.

Wendy Bustillos of East Columbus High School will be attending East Carolina University to study nursing. She is from Whiteville.

Briar Johnson of South Columbus High School will be attending Brunswick Community College to study business administration. He is from Clarendon.

Jahan Lesane-Powell of West Columbus High School will be attending Catawba College to study sports management and business. He is from Chadbourn.

Tyler Tran of Brunswick County Early College High School will be attending NC State University to study mechanical engineering. He is from Winnabow.

Chelsea Saunders of North Brunswick High School will be attending UNC Greensboro to study human resources. She is from Winnabow.

Cooper Pittman of South Brunswick High School will be attending NC State University to study sports management.

He is from Oak Island.

Emmanuel Velazquez of West Brunswick High School will be attending UNC Charlotte to study mathematics. He is from Sunset Beach.

Carlie Stanley of North Myrtle Beach High School will be attending UNC Wilmington to study exercise science. She is from Nakina.

Morgan Jacobsen of Columbus County Career & College Academy will be attending Johnson and Wales University to study food and beverage entrepreneurship. She is from Clarendon.

*BEMC OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY JULY 3, IN HONOR OF INDEPENDENCE DAY* BRUNSWICK ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP CORPORATION | CUSTOMER SERVICE ( 800) 842-5871 | bemc.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS Larry Fowler David Gore PRESIDENT

S E C R E TA R Y T R E A S U R E R

Glenn Humbert

Calvin Duncan

VICE PRESIDENT

A S S T. S E C R E TA R Y T R E A S U R E R

This institution is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Kim S. Anderson Moses Herring Perry Sellers

Dan Strickland Frederick Tedder John Ward

Joshua L. Winslow

Dennis Worley

CEO/G ENER AL MANAGER

AT T O R N E Y

14 | July 2026

Brunswick-0726.indd 14

6/9/26 3:16 PM

ON THE HOUSE

photos.cooperative.com

Co-ops Through the Decades Some things change, some stay the same

By Jonathan Susser

Q: A:

Reflecting on the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary made me realize that I don’t know much about the history of our electric co-ops. Any interesting nuggets to share? pleasant — has remained relatively consistent.

That observation likely isn’t groundbreaking, but it was neat to see.

Another fun discovery I made while researching: In November 1974, Carolina Country had an About the House column (On the House’s ancestor, perhaps?) titled “How to Save on Home Heating Costs.” Many of the recommendations it offered — lowering your thermostat before leaving for a winter vacation, regularly checking your filter and replacing it as needed, not excessively tinkering with your thermostat setpoint — would feel right at home in 2026.

While some things change, some stay the same.

Today, the co-ops continue to explore and deploy innovations to maintain and extend the benefits afforded by electricity and provide a brighter future across our state. Although many of the specific technologies and use cases look different, the emphasis on convenience, on efficiency and on lightening the load does not.

So, here’s to another 90 years of the cooperative way, not only supporting our communities with reliable, affordable power that improves quality of life, but also being a trusted resource as new products and technologies arrive.

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

photos.cooperative.com

Quite a few! And I think looking back on the evolution of our cooperative story, and our narratives around electricity use and access, is a great idea.

Electricity generation in North Carolina dates all the way back to the 1880s, but it took another half-century to reach our rural areas, spurred by the North Carolina Rural Electrification Authority and federal Rural Electrification Administration.

It was then that our farmers and other local community members installed the poles, strung the lines and ultimately formed the co-ops that we know today.

Edgecombe-Martin County EMC came first, energizing the homes of 82 members in 1937 (for reference, it now serves nearly 12,000 members).

Around that time, only about 3% of farmers across the state had electricity.

But from there, change happened quickly. By the mid-1950s, more than 95% of North Carolina farms were connected to safe, affordable and reliable power. And that was a huge deal.

The January 1954 issue of The Carolina Farmer, which would become Carolina Country a decade-and-a-half later, contained a letter to the editor from a Lexington member that simply said, “Rural electrification was a blessing to our rural community.”

That same issue featured an article about how to get the most out of infrared heat lamps for brooding chickens, another about the productivity benefits of electric hotbeds and yet another touting the efficiency advantages of electric kitchen appliances.

Fifty years later, the March 2004 edition of Carolina Country had a column about “new” gardening tools, including several electric products, to make the activity more enjoyable.

In other words, the framing and messaging around electricity over the decades — as a way to make life easier, safer, more efficient and more

carolinacountry.com | 15

CC07_JA.indd 15

6/8/2026 11:22:32 AM

and the

founding of our nation

as one of the original colonies, the old north state’s early history is intertwined with that of the united states. test your knowledge and score yourself to see how you stack up! answers are at the bottom of this page.

1

2

3

4

5

Were North Carolina and South Carolina ever the same colony?

A. Yes B. No

T

Bonus Point: What was it called?

Did any revolutionary war battles take place in North Carolina?

A. Yes B. No

W

Bonus Point: Name one

During the American Revolution, what were supporters of the British Crown called?

W

A. Patriots B. Confederates

A B

C. Tea-Timers D. Loyalists

The Halifax resolves authorized NC delegates to the continental congress to vote for what?

A. Abolish the Stamp Act B. Vote for independence from Great Britain

C. Move the capital to Raleigh D. Free barbecue for all

What is a clocked stocking, popular with men and women in the 1700s and 1800s?

A. A clock that sits on the floor B. Shoes that have a clock design on the back

C. Stocking with a decorative embroidered design D. A footrace in one’s socks

ANSWERS: 1. A (Carolina) | 2. A (Moore's Creek, Guilford Court House, Ramseur's Mill, Lindley's Mill) 3. D, 4. B, 5. C, 6. B, 7. A, 8. C, 9. A, 10. A

16 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 16

6/10/26 5:01 PM

HOW DID YOU DO?

Less than 5 correct: We guarantee you know more than when you started.

5 to 7 correct: Quite respectable — we didn’t know what clocked stockings were, either.

8 to 10 correct: You’ve got serious history chops.

More than 10 (with bonus points): Amazing!

You’ve earned full bragging rights at your Fourth of July celebration.

6

The “Overmountain Men” were important in which revolutionary war battle?

A. Guilford Courthouse B. Kings Mountain

C. Moore's Creek D. Yorktown

What year was the Declaration of Independence signed?

A. 1776 B. 1783

C. 1876 D. 1982

Which colony made the first formal endorsement for independence from Great Britain?

A. Virginia B. South Carolina

C. North Carolina D. Massachusetts

What are naval stores?

A. Products made from pine tree sap used to build ships B. Money to buy navy supplies

C. Military rations during the American Revolution D. Stockpiled oranges

What were camp followers?

A. People, mostly women, who followed military camps to provide food, laundry and other essentials

C. S oldiers who followed behind camps to ensure enemies were not close behind

B. Patriots who chose to camp out while soldiers used their homes

D. G eorge Washington enthusiasts who hoped to catch a glimpse of the general

carolina country thanks the north carolina department of

natural and cultural resources for providing these questions.

7

8

9

10 A PROGRAM OF

Visit america250.nc.gov to learn more about NC and our nation’s 250th birthday!

carolinacountry.com | 17

CC07_JA.indd 17

6/10/2026 1:26:50 PM

CAROLINA | ADVENTURES

O

Hickory Ridge History Museum

Honoring 250 Years of Independence Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with history, heritage and fun

By Rue Reynold

As communities across the nation commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s Independence Day offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the people, events and ideals that shaped both North Carolina and the United States.

Whether you’re interested in the history of the Revolutionary War, family-friendly activities or traditional Fourth of July festivities, there’s a celebration waiting in every region.

Mountains Independence Day Celebration at Hickory Ridge History Museum | horninthewest.com Step back into the 18th century at the annual Independence Day Celebration at Hickory Ridge History Museum in Boone.

Hosted at the historic museum known for preserving Appalachian heritage, the event features patriotic readings, living history demonstrations, traditional music and familyfriendly activities. Visitors can experience how early Americans celebrated independence while exploring the museum’s collection of historic cabins and exhibits.

Macon County’s America 250th Celebration franklin-chamber.com/events The Macon County’s America 250th Celebration combines Independence Day festivities with recognition of the nation’s

semiquincentennial. The celebration highlights local history, patriotism and community pride through special programs and activities to honor the people, events and ideals that helped shape America over the past 250 years.

Piedmont Capitol 250: North Carolina Freedom Fest america250.nc.gov Held on the grounds of North Carolina’s historic State Capitol, Capitol 250: North Carolina Freedom Fest offers a day filled with history, culture and entertainment. Visitors can take in historical demonstrations, exhibits, live performances, food vendors and family activities while learning about North Carolina’s role in the nation’s founding and growth. The event serves as one of the state’s signature America 250 commemorations.

Independence Day Celebration at Museum of the Waxhaws | museumofthewaxhaws.org/events The Independence Day Celebration at Museum of the Waxhaws highlights the rich Revolutionary-era history of the region. Guests can enjoy patriotic programming, historical presentations and family-friendly activities that connect modern celebrations to the area’s important role in early American history.

18 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 18

6/10/2026 1:10:13 PM

Events: July Denton Antique Festival 01 June 30–July 4

Knight 08 Gladys Schaefer Center for the

Harrison Park 336-250-5348

Performing Arts 828-262-4046

250 Celebration 03 July 3–4 Macon County Recreation Park 828-349-2090

Riverfront Convention Center 252-626-7046

Independence Day Celebration 1-5pm Hickory Ridge History Museum 828-264-2120

Sock Puppets vs Danville Otterbots

July 24–25

Bethel Middle School Gym 828-400-7323

Historic Halifax

Capitol 250: NC Freedom Fest 10am-4pm

Downtown Raleigh

Onslow County Freedom Festival onslowcountync.gov/2268/Freedom-Festival The Onslow County Freedom Festival offers a full day of family-friendly entertainment, including live music, activities for children, food vendors and one of the region’s most anticipated fireworks displays. The event celebrates both community spirit and national pride, making it a popular Fourth of July destination for residents and visitors alike.

America’s 250th anniversary serves as a reminder that history is not only something to study but something to experience. Through festivals, historical reenactments and community gatherings, North Carolina’s Fourth of July celebrations invite residents and visitors alike to become part of that ongoing story.

Visit America250.NC.gov to find more exciting events to celebrate this summer.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.

Fireworks Extravaganza Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock 828-264-9061

Museum of the Waxhaws 704-843-1832

North Carolina 4th of July Festival Southport 910-457-5578

Big Rock Landing, Morehead City | 910-358-5080

Cruso Quilt Show

`10am-4pm

12pm-4pm

July 15–18

Jim Graham Building at NC State Fairgrounds | 980-565-8691

Independence Day Celebration

Independence Day Celebration

Unlimited Band 15 Ducks the Billfish Tournament

CryptidFest 24 Carolina July 24–25

Burlington Athletic Stadium 336-222-0223

bit.ly/dncr-independencedaycelebration At historic Tryon Palace, the annual Independence Day Celebration brings colonial history to life. Visitors can experience costumed interpreters, living history demonstrations, period games, music and patriotic activities that showcase how North Carolinians observed Independence Day during the nation’s earliest years.

Brock Gymnasium, Mocksville 336-753-6230

July 13–17

3-9pm Onslow Pines Park

Coast Independence Day Celebration at Historic Halifax

in July Arts 11 Christmas & Crafts Sale

Purple 13 National Heart Convention

County 04 Onslow Freedom Festival

Onslow County Freedom Festival

CAROLINA | CALENDAR

at Sea: 25 Patriots A Seaport Prepares for War Reenactments, demonstrations, family activities Bath Historic Site | 252-741-6036

Small Town, Big Celebration Festival for America’s 250 Downtown Aurora 919-449-6785

Enrichment Day 29 Animal Demonstrations, family activities, crafts Grandfather Mountain 828-733-2013

SCAN TO SUBMIT

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

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

carolinacountry.com carolinacountry.com | 19 | 19

CC07_JA.indd 19

6/9/2026 12:51:03 PM

2026

Nothing could be finer ...

Vote Now for the Finest in the State!

We’re pleased to announce the top finalists from each category, nominated by our readers. These are the best of the best, but we want to know your top picks! Winners of the 2026 Carolina’s Finest Awards will be featured in our November 2026 issue.

BBQ restaurant

Main Street/Downtown

 Lexington Barbecue  Parker's Barbecue, Wilson  Skylight Inn BBQ, Ayden

 Boone  Lexington  Mount Airy

Festival

Musician/Band

 Lexington Barbecue Festival  Lincoln County Apple Festival  Livermush Festival, Marion  NC Pickle Festival, Mt. Olive

 The Avett Brothers  Band of Oz  Le Salty Dead Salon/Barbershop

Landmark

 The Biltmore Estate  Cape Hatteras Lighthouse  Wright Brothers National Memorial

Lore/Legend

 Blackbeard’s Ghost  Brown Mountain Lights  The Maco Light

 City Barber Shop, Marion  Floyd’s City Barber Shop, Mount Airy  Sunshine Hair Designs, Tarboro

Vote on the

finest in each category at CarolinaCountry.com/ Finest by August 15 for a chance to win one of three

$100

gift cards

Seafood Restaurant

 Mayflower Seafood, multiple locations  Ocean View Seafood, Lexington  Pier 41 Seafood, Lumberton  Provision Company, Southport Winery

NC Product

 Blue Mist Barbecue Sauce  Hatteras Saltworks Pure Sea Salt  Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies

 Childress Vineyards, Lexington  Duplin Winery, Rose Hill  Shelton Vineyards, Dobson  WoodMill Winery, Vale

SCAN TO VOTE

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, complete online entry form at carolinacountry.com/finest, or mail in your nominations to Carolina Country’s Finest, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616, for a chance to win. All contact information will remain confidential. One entry per person, drawn by random; odds of receiving one (1) of the three $100 gift cards depend upon number of entries received. Entries must be submitted by Aug. 15, 2026.

Random drawing will take place after Aug. 16, 2026.

20 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 20

6/10/2026 2:44:17 PM

STEEL MOBILE HOME ROOFING These potato pancakes with sausage gravy are the definition of savory.

Get this latest recipe from Bo Weichel, aka Shotgun Bo.

Built for Strength.

Strenght. Designed for Life.

Recipe s u n o B

Bonus Recipe

PERMA-ROOF-OFFERS: • Eliminates Leaks & Roof Rumble • Maintenance-Free • Lifetime Warranty • Save on Utilities • Expert Installation

Find it online at carolinacountry.com/recipes

CALL NOW!

We will get your timeshare canceled!

TimeShareBeGone

800-633-8969

100% Money Back Guarantee!

Low flat Fee Payment Plans <>17 years in business!

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.

800-223-1770

roofover.com

Timesharebegone.com Legal attorney cancelations

How to Win at Love

ONLY

39

A classic tennis bracelet serves up over 10 carats of sparkle for a guaranteed win

plus FREE earrings!

I

t was the jewelry piece that made the world stop and take notice. In the middle of a long volley during the big American tennis tournament, the chic blonde athlete had to stop play because her delicate diamond bracelet had broken and she had to find it. The tennis star recovered her beloved bracelet, but the world would never be the same.

We’ve captured this timeless classic with over 10 total carats of DiamondAura®, our signature diamond alternative stone. This sparkling marvel rivals even the finest diamonds (D Flawless) with its transparent color and clarity, and both are so hard they can cut glass.

The first time we offered this bracelet, we sold out literally in minutes. It took six months to get it back in stock — Get yours before we run out! And there’s more... we will also include our Ultimate Diamond Alternative™ DiamondAura® stud earrings for FREE! Jewelry Specifications: • 10 ¾ ctw of the Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura®

• Rhodium-finished .925 sterling silver settings • Bracelet: Fits wrists to 7 ½".

Earrings: 1 ctw with post backs

FREE

earrings with your purchase of the Love Wins Bracelet.

Love Wins Tennis Bracelet (10 ¾ ctw) $399 $39* + S&P FREE stud earrings (1 ctw) with your purchase of the Love Wins Bracelet — a $99 value! *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045 Your Offer Code: LWB385-02

Stauer, 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. LW385-02, Burnsville, MN 55337 | www.stauer.com

Stauer® |

CC07_JA.indd 21

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

®

6/8/2026 8:54:39 AM

All recipes are by culinary Adventurist Wendy Perry (WendyPerry.com), a home economist, blogger and NC food artisan, unless otherwise noted.

L

E t e i

1

America’s Birthday Cake Carolina Country style What better way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than with juicy red North Carolina-grown watermelon? Make our Watermelon Cake your centerpiece with extra wedges piled all around for a crowd!

2 large seedless watermelon, peeled and cut into 2–3-inch-thick slices 1 quart heavy whipping cream 2 (8-ounce) containers mascarpone cheese, softened 4 tablespoons powdered sugar 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons each vanilla and almond extracts Assorted chilled seasonal fruits (we used berries, cherries, kiwi, dragon fruit, oranges and pineapple stars) Mint and rosemary Candies, pretzels, sprinkles, etc.

Wood skewers

Place watermelon slices on a paper towel-lined tray and refrigerate for 1 hour to chill and absorb excess moisture.

Beat whipping cream to soft peaks. Add mascarpone, sugars and extracts; continue beating until light and fluffy.

Dab excess moisture from melon with paper towels. Spread a layer of filling onto a platter or cake stand to anchor the base. Stack watermelon slices slightly offset, spreading filling between layers and on top. Stabilize with skewers.

Decorate with fruit, herbs, candies, pretzels and sprinkles however you like. Let children join in the fun — every cake can be uniquely patriotic and party-ready for the Fourth of July or any summer celebration!

Yield: 2 cakes

I

i

s

m c

* i

Y Submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe Contributors whose recipes are published will receive $25.

22 | July 2026

CC07_tv.indd 22

6/8/2026 9:49:09 AM

r

e

Let Freedom Ring Deviled Egg Dip

FROM YOUR KITCHEN

Everybody loves deviled eggs, but nobody loves peeling them! Free yourself from the stress of perfectly peeled eggs and just make this dip! Still delicious and very forgiving when it comes to “ugly” eggs.

Pepper Chicken Salad

6 large eggs, hardboiled and peeled ¼ cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons stone-ground mustard 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (to taste) 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish 3 tablespoons minced red onion 3 tablespoons minced celery 3 tablespoons minced green onion tops, divided 2 tablespoons minced green pepper 1 tablespoon sweet pickle juice 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon white pepper ½ teaspoon black pepper In a mixing bowl, finely chop eggs.* Combine mayonnaise, mustard and hot sauce. Stir into eggs.

Fold in remaining ingredients. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Chill at least 30 minutes. Garnish with a bit of the minced green onion tops. Serve with chips, vegetables, crackers, pork rinds or your favorite dippers. *Prefer a creamy dip? Blend the eggs and ingredients in a food processor.

“We eat salads year ‘round and always keep a bowl full of some sort of salad. By making different ones that are easy to make and eat, I will reach for the bowl of salad every time. After all, the salad is ready to eat.”—Katie Martin 2 boiled eggs, chopped 2 pounds chicken, chopped 1 tablespoon salt 1 onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 2 teaspoons lemon pepper ½ cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons chicken broth Pepper and salt to taste Boil two eggs until done. Peel, chop and set aside.

Put chicken and salt in a pan. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer 12–15 minutes until chicken is done. Drain off broth, setting 3 tablespoons aside.

While chicken is cooling, chop celery and onion, set aside. Then cut up or shred chicken.

In a bowl, mix onion, celery, chicken, chicken broth, lemon pepper and mayonnaise together until desired consistency is reached.

Add more salt/pepper to taste.

Serve by itself, over lettuce, with crackers or on a sandwich.

Yield: 6 servings

Yield: 2½ cups

Recipe courtesy of Katie Martin of Danbury.

carolinacountry.com | 23

CC07_tv.indd 23

6/9/2026 9:32:01 AM

CAROLINA | SNAPSHOTS

1

2

3

4

ICE CREAM 1 Kelly Luciana, Morganton A member of Rutherford EMC

2 Linda Mathiasen, New Bern A member of Jones Onslow EMC

3 Kimberly Farmer, Dobson A member of Surry Yadkin EMC

4 Casey Hicks, Danbury A member of EnergyUnited Send us your best shots based on an upcoming theme—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.

Upcoming Themes: September: Harvest | October: Candy Crazy | November: Holiday Dish

where

in Carolina Country is this?

Send your answer by July 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 September 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.

The May “Where Is This” photo by Lumbee River EMC member Kathryn Ransom shows the old Patterson Building, also known as the Flat Iron Building, at the corner of McCaskill Avenue and Patterson Street in downtown Maxton. This Robeson County landmark’s notable shape also features a distinctive clock tower.

Built in 1911 for the Bank of Robeson, the structure may have been modeled after the famous Flatiron Building in New York City. It later served as a laundromat, but reader Tony Phillips commented the building is too beautiful for laundry! The town restored it in 1997 to house the Maxton Town Hall. The building is listed on the National Record of Historical Places. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Virginia Lowery of Red Springs, a Lumbee River EMC member.

1

24 | July 2026

CC07_JA.indd 24

6/10/2026 1:11:44 PM

Get a FREE consultation!

Call 844-742-1019

JULY FINANCING EVENT Order now and pay nothing until January 2028!

NO Money Down LIMITED TIME OFFER! NO Monthly Payments NO Interest for 18 MONTHS

1

MINIMUM PURCHASE OF 6 – INTEREST ACCRUES DURING PROMOTIONAL PERIOD BUT IS WAIVED IF PAID IN FULL WITHIN 18 MONTHS

TESTED, TRUSTED, AND TOTALLY PROVEN.2 Offer Ends 7/31/2026 Call for your FREE consultation.

844-742-1019 FINDYOURWINDOW.COM

DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 7/31/2026. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Get 18 months no money down, no monthly payments, no interest when you purchase six (6) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 7/1/2026 and 7/31/2026. Only valid on initial visit. Subject to credit approval. 18-month Promotional Period: when no payments are due, interest accrues but is waived if balance is paid in full before Promotional Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after Promotional Period, plus accrued interest, will be paid in installments based on terms disclosed in the financing agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License numbers available at renewalbyandersen.com/license. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. 2Based on testing of 10 double-hung units per ASTM E2068 20 years after installation. †It is the only warranty among top selling window companies that meets all of the following requirements: easy to understand terms, unrestricted transferability, installation coverage, labor coverage, geographically unrestricted, coverage for exterior color, insect screens and hardware, and no maintenance requirement. Visit renewalbyandersen.com/nationsbest for details. ‡Review aggregator survey of 5-star reviews among leading national full-service window replacement companies. January 2024 Reputation.com “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2026 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. RBA14201

1

CC07_JA.indd 3

6/4/2026 1:34:15 PM

NORTH CAROLINA’S CO-OPS

Celebrate Our

Communities Since 1937, electric cooperatives have been lighting the way forward for rural North Carolina. As our state has grown, co-ops have become part of the fabric of communities big and small. Cooperatives are not-for-profit, and everything we do is rooted in serving our members and strengthening our communities. As our nation celebrates 250 years of progress, the cooperative difference is more important than ever. Because when communities come together, there’s no limit to what we can power next.

Learn more at NCElectricCooperatives.com NCEC_2026-07_4th-of-July.indd CC07_JA.indd 4 1

6/10/2026 6/10/26 1:15:01 12:30 PMPM