2026-09-CCEC

September 2026

The magazine of

Uncommon Retreats

Published by

ON THE HOUSE

Power up your next camping trip CARTERET-CRAVEN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

PERIODICAL

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Learn why peak demand matters to you and your co-op

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September 2026

22

8

24 FAVORITES

2 From Our Readers

8 Uncommon Retreats

4 Up Front

NC lodging that embraces the extraordinary

6 Your Power

22

Farm Fresh in WNC

20 On the House

Yadkin and Wilkes county farms offer something for everyone year-round

26 Carolina Adventures 27 Carolina Calendar

24 Carolina Voices

Who was one of your most inspiring teachers?

28 Carolina Gardens 30 Carolina Kitchen 32 Snapshots 32 Where is This?

AN ON

Lark and Tommy Elliott, the owners of Tuxedo Falls in Henderson County, took camping to the next level with their elegantly appointed treehouses and tree tents. “Roughing it” is not on the agenda, but there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy waterfalls, hikes, birdwatching, fly fishing and other WNC experiences.

Learn about this and other unique spots on page 8.

If you spot this icon, there's P more to see AG E 1 online. Visit our website or scan this QR code to access extra recipes, an event map and more.

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ON THE COVER

SCAN TO READ

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READER | LETTERS THIS MONTH

Fall Travel The end of summer and start of fall has always been my favorite time to travel, when the weather is a little cooler and the crowds are a little smaller. There’s also no shortage of festivals in September, which can be a great excuse to explore parts of the state you may not have seen before.

In this issue, you’ll find unique places to stay the night, picturesque agritourism and an updated list of festivals on carolinacountry.com. Also, don’t miss readers honoring their favorite teachers on page 24.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 58, No. 9

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

A Powerful Project

Thank you for the articles in the August issue about the project to bring electricity to the small village in Guatemala. I was delighted to read about this project, and I am so glad to see that North Carolina co-ops are thinking about and sharing their skills with the wider world.

As a former Peace Corps volunteer and longtime traveler in the developing world I have seen many wonderful, difficult and creative ways to get electricity in faraway places. One lightbulb can make such a difference — kids can read and study! I really appreciate that you provided stovetops and medical supplies as well. Very impressive!

Thank you again for shining a light on this project.

Peggy Schaeffer, Belhaven A member of Tideland EMC

Tara Verna Creative Services Associate

Helping Others

I just wanted to say thank you! I was born and raised here and am now married to a Hispanic minister, and it warms my soul that God placed a desire to go and help those in need (“Building a Brighter World,” August 2026, page 8). If there were more people as this willing to help those less fortunate maybe our world would be a better place, and all nationalities could live in love and harmony. That is God’s desire, I believe.

Thank you to all those who gave time, money and energy to bless those who truly need help.

Geishila Escobedo Hernandez, Morganton A member of Rutherford EMC

Deer Me

I live in NW Caldwell County. I have battled deer, eating the garden and flower beds.

The deer even come to the foundation of our house and eat our hostas and hydrangeas.

I tried human hair. (I dumped hair saved from a beauty salon on the tomato plants.

They looked like Spanish moss hanging on oak trees.) The deer ate the whole plant to the ground that night, hair and all. I put a half-bar of Irish Spring in the middle of the hosta plants under my windows—the next morning the soap was about 18 inches from the plants and the hostas were eaten. We already gave up gardening vegetables. Does anyone have a method that REALLY works?

Teresa Gryder, Lenoir, a member of Blue Ridge Energy

Editor’s note: We hear you, Teresa. Those deer can be voracious! We’ve compiled articles on keeping them at bay at carolinacountry.com/deer, including ideas from readers.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Carolina Country Scenes Get your camera at the ready! Send us your favorite photo of people or scenes from around the state by Nov. 15 to be considered for our annual photo contest.

Learn more on page 29.

Donna Natosi Digital Strategist Dan Tomkiewicz Advertising Dan@carolinacountry.com Amadou Fall Executive Vice President & CEO Kristie Aldridge, CCC COO Warren Kessler Director of Brand Strategy 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 Phone:

919-875-3091

Mail:

3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

Web:

carolinacountry.com

Social: 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.

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UP | FRONT

The Cooperative Difference on the Dance Floor

By Sandi A. Francis

It was a late night in some distant, vast, booming people from North Carolina that I got the priviballroom of the Gaylord Hotel, across the river lege to befriend. Each of these has the capacity to from Washington, D.C. change one’s outlook on life.

On this final evening of the 2026 NC Youth Yet the pivotal moment of Youth Tour wasn’t Tour, more than 2,000 Youth Tour delegates from something I saw through a passing glance — it across the country gathered for the NRECAhappened in the middle of a dance floor, dubbed All-State Night. Music blared through the of all places. room as delegates conversed and echoed laughter For just a few minutes on that dance floor, throughout the corners of the venue. Yet somenobody cared about titles, speeches, accomplishhow, despite sitting in the middle of a crowded ments, backgrounds, appearances or income. ballroom after an incredible trip, I couldn’t help We were kids again, enjoying the company of but feel dejected within the collective triumph. people who, only days before, had been complete Those feelings, which strangers. We were ordiI had supposedly left at nary people united under Cooperatives were home before I took off, the same cause, and built by ordinary began to slowly creep in. that was enough. people who recognized I wrestled with whether That, friends, is I truly belonged there. At the spirit of the coopa need, set aside their the start of the week, I had erative model. differences, and chose to been selected by my fellow Cooperatives weren’t work together to meet it.”

Youth Tourists to serve built by people who as our Youth Leadership believed they were Council (YLC) representative. But was I even extraordinary. They were built by ordinary people worthy of representing North Carolina? Did who recognized a need, set aside their differeveryone else know something I didn’t about ences, and chose to work together to meet it. being a leader? In the moment, leadership felt It was those same principles of authenticity, more like an impossible standard than ample service and cooperation that ultimately led me opportunity. to be selected as North Carolina’s YLC represenThen someone grabbed my arm. tative for 2026–2027. However, that recognition “Come dance!” wasn’t the most important thing I brought home Before I had time to overthink it, I was on the from Washington. dance floor, surrounded by students from every The most important lesson was this: corner of the country. “Unwritten” by Natasha Extraordinary things begin when ordinary people Bedingfield boomed from the speakers. With a decide to put their fears aside and courageously hopeful glance at the delegates around me and an get out together. urge to move, all the worry slowly began to fade.

I encourage you to get involved with your local I thought back to when we first journeyed to electric co-op and apply that very principle. And D.C., when North Carolina’s familiar scenery I encourage eligible youth to apply for the NC had given way to Washington’s monuments of Youth Tour — for what could be the journey of ivory and marble, meaningful historical sites and a lifetime. altogether unforgettable experiences. Capitol Sandi Francis represented Jacksonville-based Hill. Arlington National Cemetery. The National Jones-Onslow EMC on the 2026 NC Youth Tour.

Archives. The dozens and dozens of incredible 4 | September 2026

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NC Youth Tour ’26 Scrapbook In June, 43 students representing North Carolina’s electric cooperatives traveled to Washington, D.C., on the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The group joined more than 1,600 students from across the country for a week to immerse themselves in the nation’s capital while learning about the impact of electric co-ops on American history.

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Visit carolinacountry.com or scan the QR code on page 1 to see more photos of NC youth tourists exploring D.C.

Jones-Onslow EMC Member to Represent NC Sandi Francis, a 2026 Youth Tour participant sponsored by Jacksonville-based Jones-Onslow EMC, was selected by her fellow youth tourists to serve as North Carolina’s Youth Leadership Council (YLC) representative.

As this year’s YLC representative, Sandi will attend the 2027 Annual Meeting of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives in Raleigh, as well as the 2027 national electric co-op PowerXchange conference in San Diego.

 Sandi Francis with Sen. Ted Budd (holding a Krispy Kreme pin) in front of the U.S. Capitol.

Visit ncelectriccooperatives.com/youth-tour for more information about the program.

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YOUR | POWER

Employees at TEMA's warehouse in Raleigh

Materials Supply Co-op Marks 50 Years of Service TEMA has helped co-ops manage costs since 1976 Photos by Josh Conner

Over the past half century, a not-for-profit service company has supported North Carolina’s electric cooperatives around the clock, whether shipping out vital supplies during hurricanes and winter weather, or providing the latest technology cooperatives need to maintain systems and prepare for growing energy needs.

Tarheel Electric Membership Association (TEMA) has been a cornerstone of our state’s electric co-ops for 50 years, providing the essential materials that help all 26 co-ops deliver reliable, affordable power to more than 2.8 million North Carolinians, while also supporting eight member co-ops in Virginia and one in Maryland.

TEMA was established in 1976 to give cooperatives collective buying power, allowing them to purchase items in bulk and access them as needed. Its warehouse has grown into a 112,000-squarefoot operation that offers a diverse inventory of 1,500 product variations.

“There’s a lot of people that came before us to help lay the groundwork, and it’s a privilege to be part of that legacy and carry the mission forward,” said Matt Mulhollem, director of purchasing at TEMA, who has worked at the company for 26 years. “One of the things that has remained constant here for everyone is keeping the co-ops top of mind. Our motivation is service, not maximizing profits or sales, but focusing on the members and their needs.”

Mulhollem says much has changed since he started in early 2000. He recalled the rows of file cabinets that housed all of their paper records and doing inventory at night with a flashlight after a busy workday. Today, he says they have leveraged technology to help maximize capacity, increase head count, and go paperless, along with expanding access to more manufacturers.

TEMA plays a vital role in helping co-ops keep costs down

Bright Ideas Grant Application Deadline Teachers! Do you have a great idea for a classroom project, but could use more funding support?

Your electric co-op wants to hear about it! Visit ncelectriccooperatives.com/community/ bright-ideas and submit an application by Sept. 15, 2026, to be considered for a 2026/27 Bright Ideas grant.

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YOUR | POWER

QUICK HITS

® BE PREPARED | September is National Preparedness Month, a great time to take small steps to make a big difference in being prepared for emergencies. Visit ready.gov/september to learn how. at a time when affordability is top of mind for both co-ops and their members. TEMA returns patronage to its member cooperatives, meaning a percentage of what cooperatives spend is paid back. That commitment to affordability extends to how TEMA works to keep the cost of essential materials and supplies low for its members.

“Availability is big for affordability,” said TEMA Chief Operating Officer Jason Caudle. “We have a diverse portfolio of manufacturers that we work with, along with buying in bulk to help keep prices lower.”

That commitment to cooperatives extends beyond day-to-day operations, carrying through when storms hit and reliable support matters most.

“Our goal is to always have stock to support multiple members

throughout a weather event,” said Caudle. “We also assist with crew movement for cooperatives in need.

When co-ops call us, we work to coordinate and bring in mutual aid crews from across the state and throughout the eastern United States.”

With 50 years of history now behind the organization, Caudle says he looks forward to what’s ahead and the next 50 years.

“It’s an exciting time to be in this industry with so much growth happening in rural North Carolina,” Caudle said. “Our job is to help cooperatives prepare for that growth and ensure members have access to reliable electricity as the state moves forward.”

—Josh Conner, NC Electric Cooperatives

® EV CURIOSITY | September is also National Drive Electric Month, an opportunity to learn more about the ever-advancing capabilities of electric vehicles.

Contact your local electric co-op to learn more. ® RURAL ROADWAY SAFETY During harvest time, share rural roads and be patient with slow-moving farm equipment.

Support your local farmers and give them a wave! ® SAFE DIGGING | Don’t be like Murphy—plan ahead for digging projects and call 811 or visit NC811.org at least three days before a shovel hits the dirt.

Utility marking is free.

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Uncommon Retreats

Getaways abound in the state, as do lodging options. If you’re looking for a shot of whimsy, adventure, back-to-nature or luxury, we’ve got you covered—from the mountains to the coast.

BY LEAH CHESTER-DAVIS

Buffalo Creek Vacations

All aboard! Leave it to a family of train enthusiasts to create lodgings out of a set of cabooses, collected from various rail lines around the country. Buffalo Creek Vacations, owned by the Clackett and Hillis families, combines a rail-themed getaway with agritourism. Stay in a caboose and pretend you’re on an all-American adventure gazing out at the scenery of grazing bison. Guests can be a “ranch hand for the morning” and help feed the bison and other animals.

Three cabooses are currently for rent, with plans to add another by the end of the year. In the works is a Pullman Military Troop Sleeper used to transport soldiers during World War II. The property has a depot, which includes a gift shop, game room and laundry. Upstairs is a model train museum, a delightful bit of Americana.

Clyde

13 Caboose Way, Clyde buffalocreekvacationsnc.com | 828-307-2974

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The Cove

Riverwalk Villas

Port City Marina, 9 Brunswick St., Wilmington thecovewilmington.com | 910-651-3253

Anchors aweigh! Step onto the long dock that’s bordered by rows of floating villas at the Wilmington Riverfront and feel as if you’re setting sail on a grand adventure. While your houseboat remains docked, it is floating on the Cape Fear River, providing a unique, one-of-a-kind stay.

The Cove Riverwalk Villas give the vibe of being away from the world but provide convenience to downtown Wilmington and all it has to offer. Each luxury, two-story floating villa has a deck, with some boasting views of the Battleship North Carolina.

The Riverwalk leads to many restaurants downtown and connects to the Live Oak Bank Pavilion, the city’s largest music venue. Enjoy a show and then sail away (or at least pretend to) and allow the gentle sway of your houseboat to rock you to sleep.

Wilmington

Historic

Brookstown Inn Just imagine if the walls could talk in the Historic Brookstown Inn, a former cotton mill built in 1837 by Francis Levin Fries, a founding father of Winston-Salem.

One of the first Southern factories to use electric lighting, the rooms that were once humming and clacking with weaving, carding and spinning machinery—even producing uniforms for the Civil War—are now used as rooms or meeting spaces for guests. Features include soaring ceilings, wooden beams and exposed brick.

The Inn is steps from Old Salem, and near the West End Historic District and its coffee shops, bakeries, breweries and restaurants. It’s also close enough to walk downtown for more options. The imposing red brick structure, on the National Register of Historic Places, is a distinguished landmark of the Brookstown neighborhood.

200 Brookstone Avenue, Winston-Salem brookstowninn.com | 336-701-3904

Winston-Salem

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Tuxedo Falls Luxury Camp

The summer camp vibe along with tree houses and tree tents may harken back to carefree days of childhood, but Tuxedo Falls Luxury Camp is all about grown-up indulgence.

While it’s unusual to find safari tents up in the trees, they lend both a sense of adventure and a luxurious getaway.

Don’t let the words “treehouse” or “tree tent” dissuade you. Owners Lark and Tommy Elliott have thought of everything and serve up utmost comfort in a scenic, natural setting with a nod to local artisans.

The property features five waterfalls, all within walking distance of your tree dwelling. Enjoy a hike to experience the wonders of mountain flora or cast a line into a nearby stream. Allow the kid in you to emerge with some arts and crafts activities in the lodge or grab a drink at the bar to enjoy around the firepit. Unwind in a soaking tub on your private deck and gaze at the starlit sky. In the evening, nature’s sound machines—the gush of waterfalls accompanied by the call of hoot owls—help you drift off to a peaceful sleep.

100 Twin Creeks Rd., Zirconia tuxedofalls.com | 828-595-4894

Zirconia

River & Twine

24 East Elm St., Rocky Mount riverandtwine.com | 252-904-4731

With the claim of being the state’s only tiny house hotel and the largest such complex in the country, River & Twine is a charming stop in Rocky Mount near the banks of the Tar River. The complex offers 21 boutique tiny houses, with each being named for a region or river in eastern North Carolina.

It’s amazing what can be packed into such a compact space of about 200 square feet while delivering functionality and comfort. Each includes a cozy living area, kitchenette, bathroom and bedroom. Each tiny house has easy access to an inviting outdoor space with firepits, grills and other amenities.

River & Twine is steps away from Rocky Mount Mills, an impressive renovation of a former cotton mill that now features restaurants, coffee shops, live music venues and breweries in what is referred to as a brewery incubator. Also nearby in the Rocky Mount Mills District is the Nash County Visitor Center, a must-stop to learn about local attractions.

Rocky Mount

Carolina Country Contributing Editor Leah Chester-Davis loves to explore North Carolina. Her business, Chester-Davis Communications (chester-davis.com), specializes in food, farm, gardening and lifestyle brands and organizations.

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IN ANOTHER STATE, A FOODIE IS HOPING TO FIND “AUTHENTIC” BBQ. SADLY, THEY’RE IN ANOTHER STATE.

Sam Jones BBQ, Winterville & Raleigh

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Explore more of North Carolina at VisitNC.com

8/3/2026 2:10:31 PM

Join us in September as we celebrate the heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains with all-day music and dancing, food trucks, handmade crafts, and the warm hospitality of mountain folks.

September 19 10:00 am - 4:30 pm Main Street, Sparta, NC FREE ADMISSION 31 Years and counting!

featuring

Wayne Henderson & friends!

blueridgemountainheritagefestival.com

A HELPFUL GUIDE IN YOUR POCKET.

Tryon, NC

Get free travel guides, highway maps and trip-planning resources for your next North Carolina adventure.

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Experience Colonial South Carolina

Scan For more info

We’re Way More Than Horses!

Win a

Fall Travel Guide To receive free information about the destinations advertised in this issue and be entered into a random drawing for a $100 gift card, check what you’re interested in, clip and mail this form to:

$100 gift card

Carolina Country Travel, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616 or enter online at carolinacountry.com/travel

 Alamance County

 Discover Upcountry (SC)

 Alpine Helen (GA)

 NC Seafood Festival

Blue Ridge Mountain  Heritage Festival

 Stokes County/Hanging Rock

Carolina Bible Camp  Bluegrass Festival

 Visit NC

SAVOR THE SEASONS in Upcountry South Carolina

 Thoroughbred Country (SC)

Please include your name and address: Name:________________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________State:_______ Zip:________________ Email:_________________________________________________________________________

Every season is the best season to explore the many treasures in the Upcountry.

By providing your email address you agree to receive email communications from Carolina Country and our partners.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, complete online entry form at carolinacountry.com/travel or mail selections to Carolina Country Travel, 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 the one (1) $100 gift card depend upon number of entries received. Entries must be submitted by September 30, 2026.

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MEMBER news

The Cape CCEC Member Ted Rudder

September 2026

Why Peak Demand Matters Working Together, We Can Beat the Peak At Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative, we are committed to providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity to the members we serve. As your electric co-op, we believe it is important for members to understand how the electric system works and how your everyday energy choices can help control costs for everyone.

One important concept is peak demand, periods when electricity use across our system is at its highest. These peaks typically occur on hot summer afternoons when air conditioners are working hardest and on cold winter mornings when heating systems are running and families are preparing for the day.

Like most electric cooperatives, CCEC does not generate electricity. Instead, we purchase power from our wholesale power provider, North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), and deliver it to homes and businesses throughout our service area. The cost of that electricity increases during periods of high demand, meaning the electricity used during these peak periods is often the most expensive power the cooperative purchases all year.

When demand rises sharply, it places additional strain on the electric grid and increases costs for the cooperative and its members. By reducing electricity use during these periods, members can help lower wholesale power costs and improve system reliability.

That’s where CCEC’s Beat the Peak program comes in. Beat the Peak is a free, voluntary program that alerts members when electricity demand is expected to be especially high. During these events, members receive a text message asking them to reduce energy use for a short period of time, typically by adjusting their thermostat a few degrees, delaying the use of dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers, or waiting to charge an electric vehicle.

While one member reducing energy use may seem small, thousands of members making small changes at the same time can have a significant impact. Together, these efforts help lower wholesale power costs and support more affordable rates for the entire membership.

Members interested in participating can sign up for Beat the Peak by scanning the QR code or calling 252.247.3107. By working together during periods of high demand, we can help keep costs low while delivering the reliable service members depend on every day.

Capital Credits: Ownership Pays Did you know that as a member of CCEC, you’re also an owner? That means when the co-op does well financially, you benefit. One of the ways we return value to our members is through capital credits.

Capital credits are your share of the co-op’s annual margins (money left over after we pay all operating expenses). Instead of going to outside shareholders, those margins are allocated back to you, our members, based on how much electricity you use and years of cooperative membership.

At the July board meeting, CCEC’s Board of Directors approved the retirement of capital credits in the amount of $2.55 million. This amount includes retirements from the years 2000-2025. Active CCEC members will see a credit on their September bill, while former members will receive a check. Capital credits are a big part of what makes co-ops different from investor-owned utilities. We’re not here to make a profit, we’re here to serve you, our members.

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative |

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Understanding Your Electric Rates New Rates Begin Oct. 1 At Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative (CCEC), we are committed to keeping electric rates fair, transparent and aligned with the actual cost of providing reliable service. As a memberowned cooperative, every rate decision is made with our members’ best interests in mind, not to generate profits, but to recover the cost of delivering safe, dependable electricity.

Beginning Oct. 1, 2026, CCEC will implement updated electric rates following a comprehensive Cost-of-Service Study. This independent study is a routine part of responsible financial planning and helps ensure each member class pays its fair share of the cost of providing electric service.

The Cost-of-Service Study examined every aspect of CCEC’s operations, including wholesale power purchases, system maintenance, infrastructure investments, equipment replacement, and administrative expenses.

These evaluations determine not only how much revenue is needed to operate the cooperative, but also the fairest way to recover those costs among the various member classes.

One of the most significant changes is how wholesale power costs will be recovered. Over the past two years, members have seen the Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment (WPCA)grow several times as the cost of purchasing electricity from our wholesale power supplier increased significantly. Rather than increasing or decreasing base rates, the WPCA was designed as a temporary line-item adjustment on monthly bills that could be modified as wholesale power costs changed. While this approach allowed CCEC to respond quickly to changing costs, it also resulted in monthly bills that were less predictable.

Following the recommendation of the Cost-of-Service Study, effective Oct. 1, the current WPCA will be incorporated into CCEC’s base rates. The current WPCA charge will be eliminated and there will be a corresponding increase to the Base Grid Charge and energy rate. This adjustment creates a more stable and transparent rate while ensuring the base rates more accurately reflect the actual cost of providing electric service.

The Base Grid Charge, formerly the Facilities Charge, for standard residential members will increase from $26 to $30 per month, and the per kWh energy charge will increase slightly. Together, these changes more accurately recover both the costs of maintaining the electric grid and the variable costs of purchasing and delivering electricity.

The Base Grid Charge covers costs required to provide electricity to every home and business, regardless of how much energy is used. These costs include maintaining poles, power lines, transformers, substations, meters, and the crews, vehicles, and equipment needed to keep power flowing 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The energy charge recovers the cost of purchasing and delivering the electricity members use each month.

Members will also notice an adjustment to the seasonal rate schedule. The summer rate will apply from April 1 through Oct. 31, while the winter rate will apply from Nov. 1 through March 31. This updated schedule better aligns seasonal rates with members’ actual energy use throughout the year.

Overall, these changes are revenue-neutral by member class. In other words, the purpose of the new rates is not to generate additional revenue for the cooperative, but to recover costs in a manner that more accurately reflects how electric service is provided. In fact, a residential member using approximately 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month is expected to see a bill decrease of about 75 cents per month under the new rate structure. Some members may see a slight increase, while others may see a larger decrease depending on their monthly energy use. See page 17 for several kWh usage examples using the updated summer and winter rates.

Although the WPCA charge will be eliminated, CCEC will continue to monitor wholesale power costs. A new Wholesale Power Tier Adjustment (WPTA) will replace the WPCA. If wholesale power costs increase or decrease significantly in the future, the WPTA may be adjusted to reflect those changes, helping the cooperative recover the actual cost of providing electricity while avoiding larger, more frequent rate adjustments.

Reliable electric service requires ongoing investment, thoughtful planning, and responsible financial stewardship. These rate updates help ensure CCEC can continue providing the dependable service members expect while maintaining a rate structure that is fair, transparent, and based on the actual cost of serving our membership.

As your electric cooperative, we remain committed to helping members manage their energy costs. Our team is available to review your electric usage, explain how the new rates may affect your bill, and recommend programs that can help you save, including Equalizer budget billing, energy efficiency rebates, and future Time-ofUse rate options. If you have questions, please call us at 252.247.3107.

Thank you for your continued trust and for allowing Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative to serve you.

A residential rate comparison chart outlining all of these changes and the estimated monthly impact to your bill can be found on page 17.

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es -

l

A Closer Look at the New Residential Rates

What New Rates Mean For Your Bill The following graphs illustrate how the rate adjustment is expected to affect residential members at different levels of monthly energy use during both the summer and winter billing seasons. While individual bills will vary depending on usage patterns, the overall impact for most members is expected to be modest. Members with lower monthly energy use may see a small increase in their bill, while members with average to higher usage are expected to see little change or a slight decrease in their monthly costs. These examples are intended to provide a general estimate and help members understand how the changes may affect their household’s monthly electric bill. For more specific information regarding the rate adjustment, visit ccemc.com/account.

e

e

This chart compares the current and new residential rate structure effective Oct. 1, 2026, including the incorporation of the Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment (WPCA) into the base rates, updated Base Grid Charge and energy charges, revised seasonal billing periods, and the new Wholesale Power Tier Adjustment (WPTA).

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The Power of Efficiency Keeping Rates Affordable While Delivering Reliable Service Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity to the members we serve. As part of that commitment, the cooperative recently completed a comprehensive Cost-of-Service Study, which serves as the foundation for our new rates. The study ensures that rates are fair, equitable and accurately reflect the cost of providing electric service to each member class.

The results of the Cost-of-Service Study demonstrate that CCEC continues to provide reliable electric service at rates that compare favorably with other electric providers in Eastern North Carolina.

While all electric providers face ongoing challenges from inflation, rising material costs and increasing investments in infrastructure, CCEC works diligently to keep rates as low as possible without compromising reliability. Several factors contribute to that success including: Conservative Financial Management As a not-for-profit cooperative, CCEC’s focus is on serving members rather than generating profits for shareholders. The cooperative follows a conservative budgeting philosophy that emphasizes careful spending, long-term planning and responsible stewardship of member resources.

Higher Member Density Creates Efficiency One of CCEC’s greatest advantages is its relatively high member density. The cooperative serves approximately 17 members per mile of line, significantly higher than many rural electric cooperatives. This means the cost of building, maintaining and operating the electric distribution system can be spread across more members, creating efficiencies that help keep electric rates lower.

A Lean, Local Workforce The co-op’s small, highly efficient workforce is dedicated to serving the communities in which they

live. By carefully managing staffing levels, CCEC is able to provide exceptional service while maintaining cost efficiencies. Local employees understand the unique needs of the area and work every day to ensure members receive reliable service and maximum value. After all, most of them are co-op members, just like you!

Economies of Scale CCEC benefits from several cooperative partnerships that help control costs and deliver value to members.

One of the most significant partnerships is with North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC).

NCEMC provides reliable, affordable electricity to its 25-member cooperatives by owning power generation assets, purchasing electricity through long-term contracts, identifying innovative energy projects and coordinating transmission resources. Because NCEMC serves multiple cooperatives, it can spread costs across a larger member base and leverage its scale to secure economical power supplies. These efficiencies help keep wholesale power costs lower, which directly benefits CCEC members through more affordable electric rates.

Tarheel Electric Membership Association (TEMA), a cooperative owned by North Carolina electric cooperatives, provides many of the materials and supplies needed to operate and maintain the electric system.

Cooperatives pool their purchasing power to obtain competitive pricing on poles, transformers, wire, meters, safety equipment and other essential materials. By purchasing these items in larger quantities, TEMA helps reduce costs that would otherwise be higher if utilities bought supplies independently.

At the end of the day, every decision is guided by one question: How can we provide the greatest value to our members? The answer is found in the cooperative principles that have guided CCEC for generations — local control, financial responsibility, and a commitment to serving the communities we call home.

Main Office

1300 Highway 24 Newport, NC Customer Service & Paystation

450 McCotter Blvd.

Havelock, NC

Contact 252.247.3107 800.682.2217 ccemc.com customerservice@ccemc.com

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ON THE HOUSE

“

Energy Tech Considerations for Camping Take the edge off ‘roughing it’

By Jonathan Susser

We’re hoping to fit in an end-of-summer outdoor adventure with the kids. It’ll be their first time camping and my first time in a while. Any electrified conveniences we should consider bringing along?

Q:

A:

That sounds like an excellent final hurrah to close out the season. Electrifying your trip can add to convenience, safety and more, and obviously, there’s tons of information out there with camping checklists and “essential gear.” There are many directions you can go depending on the type of camping you’ll be doing, how long you’ll be in the wilderness, what comforts you’d like, etc. There’s no one size that fits all!

Lighting Lanterns and headlamps are generally your most popular lighting options, and advances in LED technology and batteries have made them brighter, longer-lasting and more affordable than ever. You should be able to find a model that meets your desires, including some high-performance ones. You can also seek out solar-powered and rechargeable variants.

Coolers There are many factors to evaluate with coolers — portability, price, length of storage, additional features and applications (a cooler as a seat, anyone?), energy efficiency and the like.

You’ll have your pick.

Along with the traditional hard vs. soft distinction, there are also powered/electric coolers. These require an electricity source and tend to be more expensive, but they can be valuable for longer trips, especially if you won’t have access to ice.

Kitchen Your kitchen setup can take numerous forms based on your camping situation, how close a support vehicle may be, and food needs. Camping

stoves, portable grills (gas, charcoal or electric), induction cooktops — all may be suitable for tasty meals to share.

Batteries and Solar Battery innovation is happening on a variety of fronts, from the home tools market to the larger battery storage and electric vehicle industries.

Take stock of the devices, gadgets and electronics that you’ll want to power or charge while away from an outlet. A portable power bank might do the trick, but if you’ll be gone for an extended period or have lots to power, a larger battery energy storage system avoids the noise, exhaust, mess and maintenance associated with a typical gas generator.

As alluded to earlier, solar-powered gadgets also come in many shapes and sizes. And portable solar panels are another way you can keep things running in a quiet, sustainable manner— they can even be used to charge batteries and battery systems.

If you’re hesitant to splurge on an item that you worry you’ll use only a few times, consider if there may be other activities (like tailgating) or opportunities (4-H, Y Guides, summer camp, an unexpected power outage) where it could come in handy. While some technologies may seem like luxuries at first, you might find additional uses for them to benefit convenience, safety and overall quality of life.

Happy camping!

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

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Know before you go: Check farm websites for event details and updated schedules.

Late Bloomers Flower Farm

in WNC Yadkin and wilkes county farms offer something for everyone year-round

By Vanessa Infanzon

Brittany Russell didn’t always appreciate her grandmother's Japanese-inspired garden or expertise in growing daylilies as a child. Today, she credits those early influences with cultivating her love of flowers. When she and her husband, Ronnie Russell, moved into their home in 2017, they grew sunflowers and zinnias in the yard.

It wasn’t until Brittany’s neighbors stopped by with flowers that she was inspired to build a flower farm at her Elkin home. Brittany had recently quit her job, and the loss affected her more deeply than she expected.

“The neighbors brought me a huge bouquet of flowers

from their yard,” says Brittany, a Surry-Yadkin EMC member. “Those flowers got me through the first week of being unemployed. I thought, ‘I want to share that with other people.’ That’s what started the farm.”

In 2024, Brittany opened the farm to the public, offering agritourism in the form of bouquet-making classes, field trips for school-aged children, garden tours and you-cut events.

“Keeping local agriculture thriving is important,” Brittany says. “It creates environmental stewardship, an understanding about caring for the land for future generations.”

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Perry Lowe Orchard

Choose from 30 varieties of apples at Perry Lowe Orchard in Moravian Falls.

Chelsea Welk

Meet Highland cows at "Fall on the Farm" on Oct. 17, 2026, at Crooked Creek Highlands.

these farms in yadkin and wilkes counties offer farm fresh experiences for everyone:

Late Bloomers Flower Farm

RUSSELL FLOWER FARM Elkin | russellflowerfarm.com Brittany and her team open the farm stand every Friday and Saturday, August through October. They offer you-cut events, educational field trips and garden tours by appointment. Join the fresh flower subscription program and receive enough flowers to make two arrangements. Sign up for Little Farmers Morning Out, a hands-on program for children under 12. The farm is available to rent for celebrations, parties and other special events.

With the help of Wilkes Economic Development Corporation and the Central Carolina Dahlia Society, Brittany was able to install two custom wheelchair-accessible raised garden beds so everybody can visit the farm.

LATE BLOOMERS FLOWER FARM Elkin | latebloomersflowers.com Late Bloomers Flower Farm, a sister-owned boutique farm, specializes in lavender, peonies and tulips. They also sell other seasonal blooms at the Elkin Farmers Market on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., mid-April through the end of October. Find crafted lavender bath and body products, lavender syrup, sourwood honey and whipped flavored honey at the market. Pumpkin Spice Whipped Honey is a fall favorite.

In early spring, Late Bloomers invites visitors to the farm for you-pick season. For 2027, the tulip field will be reimagined as a garden. “We want it to be a serene experience for visitors,” says Barbara Cason, a Surry-Yadkin EMC member. “People come for the nature and beauty.”

CROOKED CREEK HIGHLANDS Hamptonville | crookedcreekhighlands.com Crooked Creek Highlands hosts Fall on the Farm from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 17, 2026. This ticketed event features barbecue, food trucks and other vendors. Meet Highland cows, shop at the farm store and view the Blue Ridge Mountains from picnic tables and the barn.

Register for tours, yoga classes, professional photo sessions and events throughout the year. One-hour tours include time with Highland cows, Nigerian Dwarf goats, pony and donkeys.

PARADISE FAMILY FARM Boomer | paradisefamilyfarmnc.com If you ever thought about being a farmer, this working Scottish Highland cattle farm will provide you with the opportunity to do chores, groom cattle and tour the property on a utility task vehicle.

Overnight experiences in Paradise Family Farm’s two-bedroom Airbnb are for families, friends and couples. The retreat may be tailored to meet the needs of the group with activities such as yoga, a bonfire and crafts. The farm hosts barn yoga twice a week and rents space for weddings and other special events throughout the year.

HIDDEN HAPPINESS BEE FARM Deep Gap | hiddenhappinessbeefarm.com Whether you’re a bee aficionado or a new(bee), Hidden Happiness Bee Farm, operated by H. S. Greene, a Blue Ridge Energy member, will give you something to buzz about. The farm hosts the Annual Bee Fest from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 10, 2026. Free admission includes 40 artisan and craft vendors, food and live music.

Find the queen bee within the live observation hive, saddle up to the honey tasting bar, and wander through the gift and candy rooms. Visit the farm’s museum with artifacts from Willy Robert Cole, a bee expert from Todd. Sign up for beekeeping workshops in early 2027.

PERRY LOWE ORCHARD Moravian Falls | perryloweorchards.com This sixth-generation apple orchard in Wilkes County grows 30 varieties of apples including candy crisp, honey crisp and pink lady. The Country Farm Market at 8741 NC Hwy. 16, open July through March, sells peaches in the summer and apples in the fall.

The farm at 4085 Brice Road hosts school field trips and you-pick events featuring activities, playgrounds and wagon rides. Wear the kids out on the trike track; the farm provides the bicycles. Enjoy apple pie, apple cider donuts and slushies. Pick pumpkins from late September to late October, every weekend, Friday through Sunday.

Vanessa Infanzon moved to Charlotte for college and never left.

When she’s not writing about business or travel, she’s paddle boarding on the Catawba River.

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CAROLINA VOICES

M

Who was one of your

most inspiring teachers?

Whether in elementary school or college, there’s no doubt that futures are formed in the classroom. We asked readers to reflect on their most influential teachers—here are some of our favorite responses.

Empowering Influence

Being asked who my favorite teacher was, my mind immediately went back to fifth grade. At that time of my life, I lived in a shell — very insecure and full of questions I was afraid to ask. My fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Merritt, changed my life forever.

Mrs. Merritt determined that every single child had value, and she spent her days developing and encouraging us as individuals and not just “the class” as a whole unit.

For those of us who were extremely shy, she helped us to see what we could do. Because I was such an introvert, I threw myself into schoolwork and did well. Instead of singling us out as a separate group, causing more peer pressure and remarks from the other kids, she had each of us work with (or tutor) someone in the class having a hard time. This built self confidence in us but also helped the

one we tutored to feel like we were a team.

She made learning fun. When reading a story out loud, she changed her voice for all the characters. She encouraged classroom decisions and a democratic form of government rather than her dictating. This helped each of us at a young age to see what we had to say was important.

As I look back on some of her “creative” teaching, including puppet shows for the whole elementary school we made ourselves, I can see her influence on my life and how I try to be creative in everything I do even to this day.

Over 50 years later, before she died, I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to express to her the impact she had on my life in our one short year together.

Sue Wells, Crumpler A member of Blue Ridge Energy

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I m s h w w s a o t l t a t I b w m b 1 i t t M r s w s F

Merci Beaucoup

It was a perfect storm of three teachers [who had the most influence on me], but of the three, Madame Wallace set the course for my future professional life. My junior high school French teacher was a tall and imposing woman, not only in stature, but in personality. She was a no-nonsense teacher and ripped a classmate to shreds when he alternated ink colors on his homework assignment! Her proficiency in French and ability to teach others gave me a strong foundation of the language, to the extent that my college instructors asked where I had learned to speak French so well! She insisted on accuracy, took no prisoners, and established a love for the language and culture at a crucial time in my development. Due to the love of the French language that she instilled in me, I decided to graduate from high school a year early to become a high school French teacher. In fact, I graduated with a major in French and minor in Spanish which served me well in my 32-year career as a public school teacher of both languages. During a hiatus in my career in the early 1990s, I substituted at a public school across the country in Anacortes, Washington. When I opened the textbook to start the lesson, my eyes fell on the name of one of the authors of the textbook: Marie Wallace, Bethesda, Maryland. My ninth-grade teacher wrote the book!! I retired from Wake County in 2019 and have continued to stay connected to the language by tutoring remotely, as well as on a recent 10-day trip to France where many were surprised to meet an American who could speak fluent French! Merci beaucoup, Madame Wallace!

Nancy Green, Ocean Isle Beach A member of Brunswick Electric

An Unforgettable First Day

I was assigned to the morning kindergarten session with Miss Blank. (I’m not trying to be covert here to protect her identity; indeed, that was her name.) My friends were all assigned to the afternoon class much to my 5-year-old horror!

The other students in that class will always remember their first day of school due to the terrified girl, clinging on to her mother and the doorframe, wailing and flailing, proceeding to cry on and off throughout her first day! Miss Blank was always so patient, kind and understanding, but what I really remember is how she took the time to talk to me about my feelings — to reassure me and offer me explanations that my frightened 5-year-old mind could understand. I can clearly recall how she would be at my side, like magic, when I began to feel anxious or upset.

How did she know? She amazed me! She always had an encouraging word and a gentleness about her that immediately made me feel safe. Soon I was eagerly running into

Demanding Excellence

When I think of my most inspiring teachers, it’s difficult to choose just one. It’s because when I evaluate my life, I have to include the ones who gave me my foundation and the one who inspired me with a lasting desire to pursue excellence. The foundation was established by my parents.

They were frugal but generous, believed in hard work, education and living by Christian values. Their example and these values have lasted a lifetime.

In 1962, I entered Rust College, a small historically Black college supported by the Methodist Church. I was warmly welcomed by the students; I felt I was part of a big family. During registration, I was advised by several upperclassmen that “Whatever you do, don’t register for T.C. Bibb’s English Class 101. He will flunk you in a minute.” Although I was a country girl from a very small town, I was reluctant to take their advice. “Don’t I have some input?” I thought to myself.

Well, I did register for Mr. Bibb’s English class, and it was one of the wisest decisions I ever made. He was almost impossible, but at the same time an outstanding teacher. His intimidating demeanor stood in direct contrast to his ability to motivate and inspire (at least me) at the same time. He didn’t expect the students to do their best; he demanded it.

His method of teaching shattered rote memorization.

We read the classics, after which we prepared and gave oral reports. We were given what seemed like endless writing assignments that challenged our abilities and improved our skills. He never failed to give constructive criticism, along with recognition and praise when appropriate.

No, I didn’t “flunk” English 101. I earned a “B” for each semester and a lifetime of inspiration to pursue excellence; although not always achieved, the pursuit did result in a life well lived and work well done.

Katie M. Robinson, Fayetteville A member of South River EMC

her class! I cried on the last day of school too, knowing I wouldn’t be having her as my teacher anymore. Fastforward to my senior year in high school. I decided to walk through the halls of my elementary school for old time’s sake and who did I see walking toward me in that dimly-lit hallway? Beloved Miss Blank! She hadn’t aged at all and I recognized her immediately, but the crazy thing was that she had also recognized me and called out my full name in greeting! I was shocked and asked, “How?” She leaned into me and said softly, “Your first day was unforgettable — I could never forget you and how proud you made me during your first year of school!”

Kim Wetherall, Monroe A member of Union Power Cooperative

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CAROLINA | ADVENTURES

Fayetteville Celebrates Culture from Around the World The 48th annual International Folk Festival brings colorful costumes, dance, music and food to downtown Fayetteville.

By Renee Gannon | Photos courtesy of DistiNCtly Fayetteville

People from all over the world call Fayetteville and Cumberland County home. That diverse international community will be represented the weekend of Sept. 25–26, 2026, as more than 30 nations come together in downtown Fayetteville to celebrate the area’s cultural diversity as well as its commonality, through music, dance, art and of course, food.

Organized by the Arts Council of Fayetteville (wearethearts.com), Executive Director Kennon Jackson says the festival began as a way to recognize the area’s cultural diversity while bringing together residents from different backgrounds.

“Its purpose remains much the same today: creating unity through food, music, dance, art and shared cultural experiences.”

Kennon explains that it began in 1978, when locals Martha Duell and Mildred Evans, recognizing the area’s many cultures, wanted to create an event to bring the community together.

“Many have chosen to make this community their permanent home, creating a destination shaped by an extraordinary variety of cultures,

traditions, languages and experiences. It is an authentic reflection of who we are as a community,” adds Kennon.

What to See and Do The International Folk Festival offers visitors a chance to experience the world without leaving North Carolina.

The festivities open on Friday afternoon, Sept. 25, with art exhibits and music along Hay Street. This serves as an appetizer to the main event on Saturday morning: The official opening of the festival with the Parade of Nations. An expected 75,000 visitors will witness a colorful display of flags, traditional dress as well as musical and dance performances that reflect the cultures represented in Fayetteville and the surrounding areas.

After the parade, visitors move a few blocks away to Festival Park. Music stages, the ARTS market and dance exhibit areas showcase the area’s international scene. Performances range from Indian dance and Caribbean steel drums to Celtic music and Mexican folklórico.

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CAROLINA | CALENDAR

Events: September Cannon Day 01 July 4–Sept. 5 North Carolina Museum of History, Raleigh | 910-814-7000

Heritage Festival 12 Unionville's Food, crafts, historic displays Unionville Elementary School 980-328-2515

How Salamanders Concert in the Park 03 are Secretly Running your life 13 Memorial Park Gazebo, By award-winning author Eleanor Spicer Rice Grandfather Mountain, Linville 828-733-2013

04 Sept. 4–6

Blowing Rock 828-295-7851

Family Gospel 15 Cockman Bluegrass Concert Old Rock School, Valdese 704-516-5523

Uwharrie Bigfoot Festival

Camp Barnhardt, New London 980-565-8691

19 Grahamtoberfest Forgotten Road Ales, Graham 336-229-4225

Apple Festival

Randy Travis Music Festival

Sept. 4–7

Downtown Marshville 704-221-3187

Downtown Hendersonville 828-697-4557

Collard Festival 11 Ayden Sept. 11–12 Downtown Ayden 252-375-8095

I attended the festival in 2025. Despite rainy weather last year, the music and dance performances as well as the overall cultural vibes overcame the overcast skies. Best of all, I sampled foods from around the globe at the International Café food market, located along the Festival Park Promenade.

My first stop featured Polynesian teriyaki chicken, chased by a Nigerian puff puff beignet.

I also sampled Thai chicken on a stick and Guyanese jerk chicken egg rolls, and Honduran fried chicken with green bananas. My favorite?

A puff pastry called a samosa, stuffed with potatoes and peas. I munched on flavorful food while strolling through the park and enjoying uplifting musical notes coming from the stage.

Why Attend The festival is free, family-friendly and filled with authentic international food, traditional dress, music, dance, visual arts and cultural demonstrations. “The Parade of Nations is a powerful experience, seeing thousands of people line Hay Street as neighbors proudly carrying the flags of their countries and sharing their traditions captures the spirt of Fayetteville in a way few other events can,” adds Kennon.

“It is both a celebration of our community and an invitation for visitors to discover a side of Fayetteville they may not have experienced before.”

12 Carolina Bible Camp Bluegrass Festival

Dublin Peanut Festival Dublin Primary School 910-876-2288

25 TimberJam Snow Camp Outdoor Theatre 336-534-0321

& Retreat Center 336-262-6325

Tweetsie Ghost Train Begins Sept. 25–26

NC Honey Festival Downtown Whitesville 336-580-1790

Art in the Park Downtown Blowing Rock 828-295-7851

Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock 877-893-3874

Carolina 26 North Muscadine Festival Duplin Events Center 910-296-2181

Girl Scout Day

Esperanza Festival

Grandfather Mountain, Linville 828-733-2013

Downtown Graham 336-264-4495

Fayetteville Greek Festival

Kenari Saxophone Quartet

Sept. 12–13

First Presbyterian Church, Morehead City 252-726-8148

Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church 910-484-2010

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

Visit carolinacountry.com/events for more information about each listing or to submit your own event.

Bonus Artic le |

SC

101 North Carolina Festivals We’ve pulled together a list of 101 unique festivals North Carolina has to offer—many of which are sponsored by electric cooperatives—and grouped them by month. Check this list year-round to ensure that, whatever your mood, you’ll be able to join in the fun.

P AN ON

Renee Gannon is the Senior Associate Editor for Carolina Country magazine.

AG

E 1

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CAROLINA | GARDENS

Peony Time!

Fall prep yields springtime payoffs Trafford W. Bigger peony

Story and photos by L.A. Jackson

LA’S WEBSITE OF THE MONTH

If you want to liven up your yard with imaginative hardscape additions, Garden Artisans (gardenartisans.com) is a good e-source for innovative, unusual, and, yes, even delightfully weird creations.

It’s time for peonies! Whoa!

Are you are thinking about those glorious, bodacious flower displays that are sure head-turners in any garden?

I hate to disappoint, but that pretty parade came and went last spring. Instead, September is a good time to start planting peony tubers.

Granted, tubers are less visually stimulating than fullblown blooming plants that can be bought in the spring, but, personally, I prefer planting dull, chubby peonies-to-be in the fall.

This is because spring-purchased plants can struggle during their first year in the garden if summertime weather dials up the heat and turns off the rain.

Planted this month, tubers will spend the fall and winter developing strong root systems capable of sustaining young peonies through their initial growing season and beyond.

Peonies (deer resistant, by the way) are sun lovers, so site

them accordingly. Dig a hole for each tuber at least 18 inches wide and deep, mixing in generous amounts of compost or soil conditioner for proper drainage.

The tubers’ tops should be no more than an inch below ground.

So which pretty peonies should you pick? In the South, it is better to go with selections that need less “chill hours” — professional growers’ speak for extended stretches of low winter temperatures.

If you are into tried-andtrue Southern oldies, “Sarah Bernhardt” (introduced in 1906) with its pleasingly pink, double flowers; “Festiva Maxima” (1851), a perfumed pleasure with double-white blossoms accented by raspberry sprinkles in the centers; and the fragrant, blushing pink “Nymphe” (1913) are dependable, lovely blasts from the past.

There are many newer cultivars available that also

GARDEN TO-DO’S FOR

Flower and Garden Show, NC State Fair

require less chill hours, so they, too, are well suited for Carolina Country gardens. “Bartzella,” a head-turner with large, fluffy, lemon-yellow blossoms; “Do Tell” with light pink petals dancing around a deep rose, puffball center; and “Garden Lace,” another delicate pink pleasure, are popular picks.

Personally, red turns my head, and “Scarlett O’Hara,” flaunting ruby petals surrounding golden centers, was my belle until “Trafford W. Bigger” stole me away with its simmering, crimson-centric blooms.

Peony tubers shouldn’t be hard to find at local nurseries now, but if you want to go on an e-hunt, in-state mail order nurseries such as Eden Brothers (edenbrothers.com), Terra Ceia Farms (terraceiafarms.com), and Plant Delights Nursery (plantdelights.com) are good places to start.

L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine.

Sep tember

The NC State Fair is rollin’ into Raleigh on October 15th for its annual 10-day stay.

Overdoing rides and overeating is required, of course, but, as a dedicated gardener, do take time to wander into the Flower and Garden Show, which is just a short skip away from the Village of Yesteryear. With many competitions for the best in cut flowers, houseplants, floral arrangements, bonsai, fruits, vegetables, landscape designs and more, new inspirations and creative ideas for your garden might be just as exciting as that big, pink teddy bear you’re gonna win down on the midway!

® Now is not the time to prune woody ornamentals, but before autumn leaves begin to fall, do look for any dead, diseased, or damaged limbs and cut them off.

® Tumblin’ autumn leaves are pretty, but they sure can make a bio-mess in your water garden. An easy way to keep them out of a small backyard pond is to cover the surface with hardware cloth and then use a leaf blower once or twice a week to swoosh the fallen foliage off the barrier.

28 | September 2026

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CAROLINA COUNTRY SCENES

Photo Contest

STEEL MOBILE HOME ROOFING

Send us your best photos of Carolina people or scenes!

We’ll pay $50 for those published in our January 2027 issue.

Built for Strength.

Strenght. Designed for Life.

RULES

Deadline: Nov. 15, 2026 One entry per household Submit high resolution digital photos online; print photos need to be at least 5 x 7 inches.

Include your name, electric co-op, mailing address and email address or phone number If you want your print returned, include a selfaddressed, stamped envelope.

If you did not take the photo you are submitting, please tell us who did so that we can appropriately recognize the photographer.

We retain reprint and online rights for all submissions.

Find the full terms and conditions at carolinacountry.com/photocontest

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Online: carolinacountry.com/photocontest No emails, please.

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Mail: Carolina Country Photo Contest 3400 Sumner Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616

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Contact your local Morton office for more details.

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

Creamy Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs With figs Sweet fruit meets savory with fresh herbs for this saucy one-skillet comforting chicken supper made for fall evenings.

4 large chicken thighs Salt and pepper Onion powder Garlic powder 2–3 tablespoons oil 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced 20 cloves garlic, peeled 2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons chopped rosemary 2 tablespoons chopped thyme 1¼ cup chicken broth ¾ cup chopped dried figs 2 tablespoons rice vinegar ½ cup Dijon mustard ½ cup maple syrup

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Trim excess skin and fat from thighs. Dry with paper towels. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic and onion powders.

Heat oil in a large castiron skillet over mediumhigh heat. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until browned; remove and set aside.

Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Stir in cornstarch, rosemary and thyme. Cook while stirring 1 minute to form a light roux.

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.

Add figs, then whisk in vinegar, mustard and syrup until smooth.

Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, or simmer on medium-low for 15 minutes until cooked through (165 degrees) and creamy.

Garnish with sprigs of rosemary and thyme and serve over rice, orzo or mashed potatoes.

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Yield: 4 servings

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s

Juicy Apple & Cheddar Biscuit Bubble-Up Cobbler We’ve tweaked the classic New England tradition of eating apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese into a juicy one-pan dessert. The biscuits are crispy and cheesy on top while soft dumplings lie underneath.

3 cans (15-ounce) fried apples, drained and juice reserved 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon apple pie spice 8 ounces grated creamy melt triple-cheddar cheese, divided 2/3 cup brown sugar, divided 1 can (5-count) flaky biscuits 6 tablespoons butter For the slurry,* whisk 2 tablespoons cornstarch into reserved juice.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray an 8-by-8-inch baking dish.

Gently stir extract, spice, half the cheese and half the brown sugar into the drained apples, being careful not to break the tender apple slices. Pour into prepared baking dish.

Pull layers of biscuits apart, tear some into pieces and flatten with fingers. Tuck some small pieces into the apples and place the remaining pieces over top.

Scatter remaining cheese over biscuit pieces. *Spoon half the slurry evenly over the top.

Top with remaining brown sugar and dot with butter.

Bake about 20 minutes until hot, bubbly and cheesy biscuits are toasty. Serve warm. *Note: If you prefer less juicy, omit spooning slurry over the biscuits. Instead, heat in the microwave about 3 minutes to thicken and pass at serving time for drizzling over the cobbler.

Yield: About 8 servings

FROM YOUR KITCHEN

Cheesy Rigatoni ‘Honeycomb’ Pasta Pie Need a showstopper that’ll impress kids and adults alike?

This gorgeous Honeycomb Pasta Pie slices like a savory cake, calls for four ingredients with minimal prep and tastes like a cheesy dream! ¾ pound (about 340 grams) dry rigatoni or similar short tubular pasta 5 cups hearty meat or tomato-based sauce 3 cups shredded mozzarella 1 cup finely grated Parmesan Boil the rigatoni in salted water until barely al dente — it should still have a bite since it’ll continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Generously butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan (or similar).

Stand the cooked rigatoni upright in the pan so they’re packed tightly against one another.

Using a spoon, pour the sauce evenly over and between the pasta tubes. Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella, letting it fall into the tubes and open spaces. Dust the top with grated Parmesan.

Cover the pan loosely with foil and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking another 10–15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbling and beginning to brown.

Let the pasta pie rest for about 10 minutes out of the oven in order to set up. Carefully release and lift the springform ring, then cut into wedges with a sharp knife and serve warm.

Yield: 8–10 servings Recipe by Bettina Vernon of Waxhaw, a member of Union Power Cooperative.

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

carolinacountry.com | 31

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CAROLINA | SNAPSHOTS

1

2

1

3

4

HARVEST 1 Tonya Byrd, Leland A member of Brunswick Electric

2 Darian Baker, Wake Forest A member of Wake Electric

3 Casey Hicks, Danbury, A member of EnergyUnited

4 Kelly Maines, Roaring River, A member of Surry-Yadkin EMC 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: November: Holiday Dish | December: Winterscapes | January: Morning Light

where

in Carolina Country is this?

Send your answer by Sept. 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 November 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 July “Where Is This” photo by Carolina Country’s Renee Gannon features the “Tribute to Carolina Shag” mural on the corner of Lake Park Boulevard and Raleigh Avenue in Carolina Beach. The mural by Brian “JEKS” Lewis honors Malcolm “Chicken” Hicks, a member of the Shaggers Hall of Fame. He was instrumental in developing the dance synonymous with the coasts of North and South Carolina since the 1940s. The mural also features the old Ocean Plaza, a famous Carolina Beach dance pavilion during the Shag’s heyday. The “Swing Dance of the South” found a home along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. The mural is part of the Carolina Beach Mural Trail (carolinabeachmurals.org). The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Tony Phillips of Sanford, a Central Electric member.

32 | September 2026

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8/10/2026 12:57:33 PM

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8/5/2026 10:30:01 AM

FUNDING PROJECTS

Empowering Education

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$ Teachers, bring your creative learning project ideas to life!

For more than 30 years, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have helped light up learning in K-12 classrooms statewide through the Bright Ideas education grant program. It’s just one part of our continued commitment to building a brighter future for the communities we serve.

Our annual grant deadline is approaching fast. North Carolina teachers with innovative ideas can submit an online application through September 15.

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