2026-10-BRE

October 2026

Managing Costs in Challenging Times

Through cost management efforts and the success of our family of companies, Blue Ridge Energy has been able to shield members from much of the impact of rising costs to provide electricity.

However, sustained increases in wholesale power prices and electric system material costs have led to the need for a rate adjustment effective in November.

Turn the page and see Membership Matters inside to learn more.

PERIODICAL

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Managing Costs in Challenging Times The Rising Cost of Delivering Reliable Power We understand that any change to your electric bill matters, and we remain deeply committed to serving our members with care, transparency and compassion. As a not-forprofit electric cooperative, Blue Ridge Energy adjusts rates only when necessary to continue providing the safe, reliable electricity you depend on. Ongoing increases in wholesale power costs, along with higher prices for the materials and equipment required to maintain a dependable electric system, have made a rate adjustment necessary.

While rising wholesale power and equipment costs cannot be fully offset, profits from Blue Ridge Energy's subsidiary companies have helped reduce the impact on members and have been an important tool in helping us avoid larger rate increases.

A 2026 cost-of-service study approved by your Board of Directors indicates the need for a 5 percent rate adjustment effective with November bills. For the average residential member using 899 kWh per month, this will add approximately $7.25 to the monthly bill.

We know household budgets are important, and we will continue working diligently to manage costs responsibly while delivering the reliable service and member support you deserve.

You can still power all your everyday needs for around $5 a day for the typical residential household.

"Our commitment is always to serve you, our member-owners, with top-level service, the most reliable electricity, and at the lowest cost possible. We will continue working hard to provide that value to you and future generations."

- Katie Woodle, CEO, Blue Ridge Energy

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October 2026

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Published by

FEATURE

Eat well at the NC State Fair BLUE RIDGE ENERGY

Learn how increasing costs impact you and your co-op PERIODICAL

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October 2026

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18 FAVORITES

2 From Our Readers

6 Trailblazing New Opportunities

3 Up Front

McDowell Tech’s Trail School is a blueprint for building the outdoor economy

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4 Your Power

Fan Favorites at the NC State Fair

16 Energy Sense

A culinary adventure with a side of serendipity

18 Carolina Adventures

Spirits Abound Across North Carolina Ghost tours share local history with a spooky twist

19 Carolina Calendar 23 Carolina Kitchen 24 Snapshots 24 Where is This?

AN ON

Hundreds of miles of trails across North Carolina, including this spot near Curtis Creek Campground in McDowell County, are maintained by trained professionals to ensure safe and sustainable access. McDowell Technical Community College is among those offering professional training to maintain this outdoor economic resource. Learn more on page 6. Photo courtesy of Destination McDowell.

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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READER | LETTERS THIS MONTH

Blazing Trails I love a good hike, especially this time of year when canopy colors are starting to pop and trails are lined with fresh fallen leaves. But a good trail can be taken for granted; in the quiet stillness of the woods, it’s easy to forget the hard work that goes into building and maintaining it. In this issue, you’ll learn about one of several educational programs focused on the “outdoor economy,” creating spaces for people to enjoy North Carolina’s great outdoors.

Also, we seek answers to some burning questions in this issue, including when leaf season will peak and where to go for the best food at the NC State Fair.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 58, No. 10

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 Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer Tara Verna Creative Services Associate

—Scott Gates, editor

Donna Cooper Digital Strategist Dan Tomkiewicz Advertising Dan@carolinacountry.com

FROM OUR READERS

Basket-Making Traditions

I found one of Neal Thomas’s baskets in a thrift store today, signed and dated 2018 (“Carolina Creators: Neal Thomas,” October 2022, page 24). I have bought several of his baskets over the years. They are well made and useful. I enjoyed listening to his video on carolinacountry.com.

Ann Rogerson, Kenly, a member of Wake Electric

Deep NC Roots

Thank you for the great remembrance on Alamance County (“Surprises Await in Alamance County,” August 2026, page 18). I used to be well acquainted with just about every inch of that county — relatives lived in Graham, close friends lived near Saxapahaw, and we frequently traveled through the county on NC 87 back and forth to Reidsville, then later to a clothing outlet at Mebane, still later from Liberty across through Snow Camp on our way to Duke via backroads. A favorite place was the battleground, where we visited before interest was renewed in that area.

My roots run deep in North Carolina, and I am so glad to have grown up at

a time before the Research Triangle was even thought of — before the Interstates were carving us up “like a hog being butchered,” according to a friend. And I'm sorry the young people have no idea what a jewel this state was before it was discovered. Now we have a hard time keeping it from being “loved to death.” Please, in your articles, urge people to treat with care what is left, and what can be learned.

We used to make everything we needed here in NC and in the United States.

We need to bring it back if we want to be around in the future.

Judith Stewart, Cedar Point, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric

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: CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Carolina Voices What was a favorite childhood toy? Whether your childhood was a few years or a few decades ago, we want to know about the toy you loved the most and what made it special. Visit carolinacountry.com/voices by Oct. 30 to submit for our December issue.

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

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Building Bridges Through Cooperation

By Aisha Everett

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Every October, National Co-op Month gives us Charlie Farrell, CCC’s board chair and a reason to pause and talk about what makes the manager of Member Engagement Strategy for cooperative model different: local ownership, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, has democratic control, concern for community. watched that principle shape CCC’s board table But underneath all of it sits the principle that itself. “Our strongest decisions come when makes the whole system work: Principle 6 (P6), every sector — electric, credit union, agriculture, Cooperation Among Cooperatives. Sharing food, worker-owned — has a seat in the room,” values doesn’t make cooperation automatic. he says. “That’s P6 before we ever get to the Real cooperation is a daily choice, to build community-facing work.” bridges instead of operating in silos.

This July’s “Co-op Unlocked” event brought As an electric cooperative member, you’ve that same idea to life for the next generation, likely seen this up close. When storms knock with Piedmont Electric and Central Electric out power, crews from co-ops across the state partnering alongside Coastal Credit Union show up to help restore power to communito give high school students a firsthand look ties that aren’t even their at the cooperative model own. That’s P6 at its most across sectors.

Intentional visible moment.

That momentum carries collaboration But it doesn’t stop with into November, when CCC multiplies our impact.” storm response, and it isn’t hosts The Cooperative limited to one sector. Some Advantage Summit of the most meaningful cooperation happen(Nov. 5–6), bringing cooperative leaders and ing across the Carolinas right now crosses cooperative-serving organizations from across industry lines: electric co-ops partnering with the Carolinas together to strengthen crosscredit unions to keep capital working in local sector partnerships and explore new ways to communities, electric and telephone co-ops serve their communities. teaming up with agricultural cooperatives to CCC is also investing in who comes next. bring broadband to rural areas, and food co-ops, Applications are now open through Oct. 15 worker-owned businesses, and agricultural for the Jim Graham Emerging Cooperator cooperatives finding new ways to support each Scholarship. High school graduates from the other’s members.

Carolinas, as of July 1, 2026, are eligible to apply That cross-sector work is exactly what the whether heading to college, trade school or a Cooperative Council of the Carolinas (CCC) credentialing program. exists to build. Operating in a silo might feel So, cooperation isn’t accidental. It’s a choice simpler in the short term, but intentional cooperatives across the Carolinas make every collaboration multiplies our impact. When day, and one that makes all of us stronger. cooperatives across industries choose to Aisha Everett is executive director of the Cooperative work together, we build a stronger economic Council of the Carolinas. Learn more about the foundation for families across both North and organization and its programs at carolinascouncil.coop.

South Carolina. carolinacountry.com | 3

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YOUR | POWER

Science of the Season The data behind NC’s peak fall color As late summer transitions to autumn, North Carolina is gearing up for one of the most spectacular displays of natural beauty in the country. But when will the leaves peak, and how vibrant will the colors be? While many factors play a role, decades of data reveal that our fall foliage timing boils down to a few key variables — most notably, the weather in September.

Here is a look at the science behind this year's foliage forecast and what we are tracking as we head deeper into autumn.

September: the ultimate determinant While we often look at summer temperatures and spring rainfall, historical data gathered from the Boone weather station by Dr. Howie Neufeld, retired professor from Appalachian State University, shows that September average (“mean”) daily temperatures are the true determinant for leaf color timing at middle elevations (2,500 to 4,000 feet).

Neufeld suggests the relationship is remarkably precise: “For every degree increase in the mean September temperature, fall leaf colors are delayed by approximately two days.

When September averages are unusually warm — as we saw in 2018 and 2019 — the peak color can be delayed by as much as two weeks.”

Interestingly, while high mean temperatures delay the colors, extremely high maximum (daytime) temperatures in August or September actually have the opposite effect, causing leaves to turn sooner. This is likely a hidden “drought” signal, as heat-stressed trees begin shutting down early. Clouds and improved

summer rainfall have kept a lid on late-season hot weather in the High Country.

The recipe for brilliant reds What makes a “good” fall color year?

For most people, it comes down to the brilliance of the reds.

While yellows and oranges remain relatively consistent from year to year, red pigments known as anthocyanins are highly variable. Anthocyanins are stimulated by a specific weather pattern: abundant late-summer sunshine paired with a rapid drop in temperature.

Sunny days allow trees to produce sugars through photosynthesis. When nighttime temperatures drop sharply into the 30s and 40s, those sugars get trapped in the leaves, triggering intense red pigment production.

2026 outlook and progression This year, according to Evan Fisher, owner and founder of Explore Fall in Asheville, above-normal spring and summer temperatures, combined with ongoing — but easing — drought

conditions, has him believing there will be a slightly earlier than normal start of the season.

All data considered, a classic downslope fall color progression can be expected: ® Late September: Peak colors begin

at high elevations (above 4,000 feet, including Mt. Mitchell and Craggy Gardens).

® Oct. 10–20: Peak color reaches

middle elevations (2,500 to 4,000 feet, including Boone and Asheville).

® Late October: Lower elevations in

the foothills (below 2,500 feet) peak.

® November to Thanksgiving: Color

moves through the Piedmont and finally reaches the coast.

With a rolling peak that spans up to eight weeks, North Carolina is poised to deliver the longest and possibly the most spectacular foliage season in the nation.

Al Conklin is chief meteorologist for WBTV in Charlotte.

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Visit carolinacountry.com or scan the QR code on page 1 to watch Al’s Carolina Country Forecast and learn more about this year’s fall colors.

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YOUR | POWER

Four Steps to Stay Secure Online Artificial Intelligence is making cyber threats faster, smarter and harder to spot. Fight back with these tips from the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Make passwords long (16+ characters) and different for every account. A password manager can help you create and store them safely.

Be cautious of unexpected email or text messages with odd links, urgent language, misspellings or unfamiliar senders. If something feels off, delete or report it.

Add a quick extra verification step — like a code, security key or authenticator app — to protect valuable accounts such as email, banking and social media.

Install software updates as soon as they’re available.

Updates fix security flaws and help block the latest threats.

Parton’s Literacy Program Lives on in NC Dolly Parton passed away on Aug. 25, although her legacy of philanthropy lives on. For one, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have long supported her Imagination Library to deliver free, age-appropriate books each month to children from birth to age 5, including families in rural communities.

Parton created the Imagination Library in 1995 in her home county in East Tennessee, inspired by her father’s inability to read. The program now mails more than 3 million books each month and has gifted more than 300 million free books worldwide, including nearly 25 million in North Carolina.

“Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is an inspiring literacy program that North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have been pleased to promote in the communities we serve,” said Jordan Overbee, president and general manager for Piedmont Electric Cooperative, which is among the co-ops that have supported the program. “Dolly’s commitment to literacy will have an enduring impact for generations to come.”

Visit imaginationlibrary.com for more information about the program.

QUICK HITS

® CHARGE SAFELY | Help prevent electronic fires by using the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. ® HEAD-HEART-HANDSHEALTH | National 4-H Week starts Oct. 5! Electric co-ops partner with 4-H to help equip young people with skills for life and careers in a changing world. ® SCARY PRODUCE Pumpkin carving originated in Ireland,where in the 1600s it became customary to carve spooky faces into turnips to ward off roaming spirits. ® HALLOWEEN SAFETY | While trick-or-treating with kids and grandchildren, carry a flashlight and look both ways before crossing a street.

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Visit mcdowelltech.edu/wdoutdoor for current course offerings, and follow McDowell Tech Trail School on Facebook (@McDowellTechTrailSchool) for course updates.

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McDowell Tech’s Trail School is a blueprint for building the outdoor economy | By Jason Frye

As heavy drops of rain began to patter through the leaf canopy, the dozen-strong trail crew stowed heavy iron bars, rock hammers, saws, shovels and hand tools beneath an oilcloth tarp, safe from the afternoon’s weather and out of sight of hikers and trail users.

“We’ll be back tomorrow, bright and early, to finish this project,” says Jeremy Poore, director of the Outdoor Economy Training Division at McDowell Technical Community College, served by Rutherford EMC. “With the work we did today, we’ll be able to make quick work of it.”

Helmeted heads nodded in agreement as the group made way back to the trailhead and, ultimately, an air-conditioned classroom in Old Fort. As eager as the crew was to learn the art of trailside stone masonry in the field from a master of the craft, they’re equally eager to spend the afternoon in a cool classroom.

Chances are you’ve recently walked, jogged, hiked or biked along a trail or greenway. Maybe you log a few miles a month on a town greenway or on lakeside loops in a city or county park. Maybe you put hundreds of miles on your hiking boots or bicycle tires in some national park or bike-friendly trail system. Did you ever think of what (and who) it

takes to build and maintain these trails? For Jeremy Poore, the what, who and how of trail building occupies much of his mind and his time.

McDowell Tech’s Outdoor Economy program focuses on providing professional trail building crews and their loyal volunteers with the skills, knowledge and continuing education they need to safely and successfully complete their important jobs. And their jobs are important — very important.

In 2024, North Carolina’s outdoor recreation economy accounted for 3% of jobs statewide — that’s more than 155,000 workers — and it contributed $17.7 billion in economic impact, according to data from the NC Department of Commerce. Jeremy himself is one of those workers; in addition to running the “Trail School” for McDowell Tech, he operates a mountain biker- and hiker-friendly shuttle service, delivering folks to trailheads like those along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and picking them up when they reach the bottom. He works and lives in Old Fort and is part of the town’s outdoor-driven renaissance.

“You can look at Old Fort as a sort of test case in the outdoor economy,” he explains. “Can you build a community around a natural resource while serving both locals and visitors?”

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Jason Frye

Old Fort, like many small towns across North Carolina, was once home to mills and a small but mighty workforce. When mills and jobs leave, what can communities build on?

“Community Colleges help provide meaningful workforce training and continuing education to skilled workers, so what does meaningful training look like in McDowell County and Western North Carolina?” Jeremy asks. “Well, three sides of the county are lands in conservancy of some sort from the National Forest to the Blue Ridge Parkway; the same holds true in counties across the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. Naturally, we look to the outdoors to be that economic driver.”

The classes Jeremy oversees at McDowell Tech cover everything from trail design and construction — using hand tools or heavy equipment — to tool safety, wilderness first aid and best practices for site stewardship.

“There are only seven programs like this across the nation, and at any given time, about half are closed,” Jeremy says. They’re not closed from lack of interest or students, but from a lack of funding.

Many programs, like the one at McDowell Tech, rely on grants and fundraising for their first few years, but once they’ve become established as a vital part of workforce training, things can shift. Those shifts can be the development of certificate- or degree-based programs, which offer long-term funding stability, or programs that lean more into the practical “field work” aspect of trail building. Currently, Jeremy is mapping out both paths forward and seeking to strike a balance, though demand for classes is high, and

Photos courtesy of Destination McDowell unless noted.

trail worker training pulls him into the field and away from the desk.

Jeremy offers a wide array of classes and workshops driven by the demand of local and regional trail building groups, as well as by the availability of funding for particular sessions.

“If the National Forest Service lets me know they need a chainsaw training and certification course, I’ll work with them to find the ideal class size and dates that work for their folks and our instructors,” he says.

Chainsaw certification, required if a volunteer or professional trail builder needs to operate a chainsaw on federal lands, is one of many intensive classes that blend lecture and fieldwork, and typically sells out. Wilderness First Aid also sells out quickly, as well as Trail Crew Leader Training, which covers team dynamics and trail design, construction and maintenance.

Courses are short — generally two days — and inexpensive, with many current courses coming in at less than $75 per participant.

“In some ways we’re a test case for the outdoor economy,” Jeremy says. “Can a small community like ours — surrounded by the playground and classroom that is Pisgah National Forest — grow and thrive with a trail-focused economy? We think we can, and we think the growth we’ve seen so far in Old Fort proves it.”

Jason Frye is a food and travel writer from Wilmington who writes Moon North Carolina and other travel guidebooks, and contributes to other media outlets across the state.

Follow him on Instagram @BeardedWriter.

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Fan Favorites at the

The author (left) with her dear friend, Giny.

Battered Bologna Fries at Granny's Kitchen

NC State Fair

It was a hot day for October, but I was on a mission with a job to do. So off to the NC State Fair I went with my bestie, my oldest and dearest friend on planet earth, Giny. Now, the thermometer claimed it was only in the 70s, but for “seasoned” ladies like us, bebopping around on hot pavement and shuffling through a slowmoving crowd of fellow seasoned folks taking advantage of Senior Citizens’ Day (bless us all), it felt more like 90 degrees the minute we stepped onto the midway.

But with a fresh culinary adventure calling, Giny and I were off and running. Our first stop was Lawrence & Perry BBQ (lpquenc.com), a food truck with an ever-present line of eager, hungry patrons.

Turns out the owners, Martin Lawrence and R.J. Perry, have been best friends since

A culinary adventure with a side of serendipity Story and photos by Wendy Perry

kindergarten — serendipitously like Giny and me. Same origin story, same lifelong bond, same “we grew up together and never quit each other” kind of friendship.

Their cooking career started early in third grade, flipping pancakes in Martin’s mama’s kitchen. She was one of few mothers who didn’t mind children experimenting at the stove, and those pancakes eventually turned into grilling afternoons, cookouts and parties at their college apartments. R.J. went to NC Central University, Martin to rival NC A&T, but they stayed connected through food and friendship. Both were business majors, always dreaming about turning their shared passion into something more.

Food trucks weren’t everywhere back in the mid-2000s, but by 2016 the trend exploded. The timing was perfect. They launched Lawrence & Perry BBQ with one grill and a mission tied to family, cooking for Relay for Life in Warren County in honor of R.J.’s mama who passed away from breast cancer when he was just seven.

Those early fundraisers lit the spark that carried them to festivals, events, a food truck and eventually the NC State Fair.

This year marks their fifth year at the fair, and their fan base is serious. Even with gates just

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Lawrence & Perry's deep-fried ribs and lamb chops were named Best New Savory Food at the 2025 NC State Fair.

Granny's Country Kitchen serves up pork belly churros (above) and Dirty Cheerwine (bottom right).

opening, the line at Lawrence & Perry is waiting. Their specialties are deep-fried ribs and lamb chops, named Best New Savory Food at the 2025 NC State Fair. They go through roughly 5,000 pounds of ribs during the fair! You read that right: Five. Thousand. Pounds.

And then there’s their legendary Slop Bucket, with fries in the bottom then pork or chicken drenched in barbecue sauce, topped with slaw, baked beans and mac and cheese — in a bucket! It’s the kind of thing that makes you stop and say, “Well, I didn’t know I needed that, but gimme a fork, ’cause I do.”

Giny and I eventually moseyed all the way down to Pitzer Heritage Circle via a tram ride at the opposite end of the fairgrounds where Granny’s Country Kitchen (grannyscountrykitchen.com) serves up country vittles.

A beloved diner with locations in Icard, Hickory and Claremont, the original opened in 2003 under Kent and Lisa Cranford, and today Granny’s family includes more than 75 employees across the three restaurants. During the fair, about a dozen of them run the eatery like a well oiled machine, even staying together in a local Airbnb.

I chatted with Clyde Leggings, a Brunswick Electric member and manager of the NC State Fair location.

Granny’s has been at the fair since 2013, and he’s seen just

about everything (he’s most perplexed by “challenging” customers who order and pay for food, then can’t be found when it’s ready). Granny’s is known for their Battered Bologna Fries and wildly popular Pork Belly Churros: cinnamon sugar dusted pork belly sticks drizzled with chocolate and caramel. When I asked Clyde about the most “North Carolina” thing about their food, he didn’t hesitate: “our country cooking.” Their best sellers prove comfort food never goes out of style with about 100 orders of mac and cheese a day, and roughly 2,000 Dirty Cheerwines, their house specialty, sold last year.

We ended our day with one of those ice cold Dirty Cheerwines, NC’s own cherry elixir “dirtied” with Half n Half, lime juice and vanilla (find a recipe for your own Salty Spiced Maple Dirty Root Beer on page 23). ’Twas a fittin’ way to finish our fair culinary adventure — two friendships, two ends of the fairgrounds and one perfect reminder that at the NC State Fair, food isn’t just about what’s served up. It’s about the people who pour their hearts into feeding us, one plate (or bucket), one smile, one fair season at a time.

Culinary Adventurist Wendy Perry (WendyPerry.com) is a home economist, blogger and NC food artisan.

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YoUR NEXT GREAT Southeast ADVENTURE SAVOR THE SEASONS in Upcountry South Carolina

Discover Upcountry

In late October and early November, take a cruise on Lake Jocassee, explore over 100 waterfalls, and take in the spectacular scenery along a scenic byway in South Carolina’s Upcountry.

UpcountrySC.com

NC Liver Mush Festival Mush, Music & Mutts

Saturday, October 17th uptown Shelby, NC

NC Liver Mush Festival

Join us on Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Uptown Shelby, NC, for the 41st Annual NC Liver Mush Festival!

NCLivermushFestival.com

 Thoroughbred Country, SC

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

UpcountrySC.com

While traveling through Thoroughbred Country, you may find a love for the arts, a sense of adventure, peace with nature and a new appreciation for all things equine.

Sometimes referred to as “Undiscovered South Carolina,” Thoroughbred Country includes Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. Explore each and discover rolling countrysides, diverse culinary experiences, history from every era, Mennonite culture, folk art and antique shops in charming small towns. tbredcountry.org

Mack's liver mush booth

www.nclivermushfestival.com

Escape to a region where rolling countrysides meet with quaint downtowns filled with historic sites, tasty fall festivals and unforgettable experiences.

Adventure in Thoroughbred Country, SC

tbredcountry.org Aiken | Allendale | Bamberg | Barnwell Counties

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embership M

10 TWENTY TWENTY SIX

MATTERS

Rising Costs L ead to 5 Percent Rate Adjustment Average member will see additional $7.25 on their monthly bill beginning in November

Continued rising costs for wholesale power and electric system materials is the key driver behind the need for a 5 percent rate adjustment, approved by the Board of Directors of Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation (d/b/a Blue Ridge Energy) following a thorough cost of service study.

Beginning in November, the typical Blue Ridge Energy member using 899 kWh monthly will see an additional $7.25 on their monthly electric bill.

Explaining the need for the rate adjustment, Chief Executive Officer Katie Woodle said: “As a cooperative operating to provide at-cost electricity in the best interests of our member-owners, it is never easy to pass along a rate adjustment even when it’s necessary. However, we have experienced sustained significant increases in our largest expense — the cost of wholesale power that we purchase to reach homes and businesses.”

“Additionally, the equipment, materials, technology and other resources required to maintain our electric system to provide reliable electricity for our members have also experienced sustained rising costs,” she said.

Woodle said Blue Ridge Energy has worked extensively to control expenses. “We are very fortunate to have our Propane and Fuels and RidgeLink subsidiaries, which play an

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important role by contributing earnings that are then used to help offset costs for our electric members,” she said. For example, in 2025, the subsidiaries generated $6.7 million in after-tax net benefit back to the parent cooperative, which helped mitigate some of the cost challenges and help keep rates lower than would otherwise be needed.

“We also have recently renewed our employee-led WorkSmart program to identify additional savings opportunities throughout the organization in our day-to-day operations,” Woodle said. “Since the program began in 2009, over $56 million has been saved through targeted efforts by employees to identify processes and technology that allow us to work more efficiently and in a more cost-effective manner.

Blue Ridge Energy wants to help members keep their bills as low as possible. Tips and energy efficiency information are available on BlueRidgeEnergy.com, where members will also find programs such as Budget Billing, the cooperative’s “pay as you use” FlexPay option and the Usage Tracker, which shows daily electricity usage that help members make changes if needed to get ahead of high bills.

Look for more details in the Perspective on the next page and on the cover of this magazine.

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THE

Perspective Managing the Impac t s of a Rising Cost Environment As a cooperative, we exist to provide atcost electricity and work hard to shield our members from the rising-cost environment in wholesale power, and inflationary pressure we’re seeing impact crucial equipment required to deliver reliable energy.

What’s happening To ensure Blue Ridge Energy remains financially strong and continues operating at cost, we recently completed a comprehensive review of rates in response to rising wholesale power and electric system costs.

Providing reliable electricity at the lowest possible cost remains our mission. That is why rate adjustments are never easy to implement or communicate. However, effective with November bills, rates will increase by five percent, or, $7.25 per month for the average residential member using 899 kWh of electricity.

Why it’s happening Wholesale power, or the power we purchase from electric generation facilities to serve our system, makes up a majority of the costs your cooperative faces on a yearly basis. Across the energy market, demand for electricity continues to increase while supply remains tight. As a result, the cost of purchasing the energy needed to power homes and businesses continues to rise.

In addition to rising wholesale power costs, we’ve found no relief in the prices for equipment needed to maintain reliability that’s critical to our communities. From the poles, wires and transformers, down to the nuts and

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From Blue Ridge CEO Katie Woodle

bolts to hold it together, increases have continued from already historic levels.

What we’re doing in response As a member-owned cooperative, we have a responsibility to manage these challenges carefully and look for every reasonable opportunity to control costs. We continue working to secure the best possible wholesale power arrangements on behalf of our members. Over the past 20 years, strategic wholesale power decisions have helped Blue Ridge Energy members avoid approximately $369 million in costs that would have otherwise impacted rates. We continue to evaluate additional opportunities to strengthen our power portfolio while maintaining the high level of reliability our members have come to expect.

Our revitalized employee-led WorkSmart program remains another important tool for controlling expenses. Since its inception, the program has generated millions of dollars in savings through workplace efficiencies. Our subsidiaries also play an important role. In 2025 alone, Blue Ridge Energy Propane and Fuels and RidgeLink returned $6.7 million in after-tax net benefits to the cooperative, helping offset some of the cost pressures impacting our electric operations.

We never take rate adjustments lightly. We are committed to providing reliable electricity and doing so at the lowest possible cost. Most importantly, we remain committed to working on your behalf and seeking every opportunity to lessen the impact of rising energy costs on our members.

Membership MAT TERS

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Clean Energy Charge Changes

The “NC CEPS” charge on your bill is changing, effective on November bills. This charge is to comply with the state’s Clean Energy and Renewable Energy portfolio standard requiring all utilities to generate and distribute more electricity from renewable, nuclear and clean energy resources and to encourage energy efficiency among consumers.

Members will see the following increased changes: the residential fee will move from

$1.89 to $1.92, the commercial fee will move from $10.52 to $10.60, and the industrial fee will move from $67.92 to $70.12.

Expenses to comply with the clean energy law fluctuate annually based on the cost of energy and energy efficiency projects determined by the cooperative’s wholesale power provider. State law requires that a portion of renewable energy be generated from swine and poultry waste.

Stop Energy Vampires — Save Money Did you know some of your electronics continue to use energy even when they’re turned off? These so-called “vampire” or “phantom” electronics can quietly add up on your energy bill each month.

Devices like TVs, gaming consoles, printers, microwaves and other appliances, phone chargers and computers draw small amounts of electricity anytime they’re plugged in— whether you’re using them or not. Multiply that across your home, and it can account for 5–10% of your monthly electricity use.

Here’s how to fight back: Unplug devices when not in use — especially in guest rooms, home offices, and entertainment areas.

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•

Use smart power strips that cut power to multiple devices at once when they’re not in use.

•

Enable energy-saving modes on your TV, computer, and game systems.

•

When buying new electronics, look for the ENERGY STAR® label to ensure higher efficiency.

Taking just a few of these steps can help reduce waste, manage your energy costs, and make your home more efficient — without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

For more money-saving tips, head to: BlueRidgeEnergy.com/Save

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

Membership MAT TERS

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ENERGY | SENSE

Seal Ductwork for Savings

By Miranda Boutelle

If you live in a home with a forced air furnace, the biggest energy waster may be out of sight. Improve your home’s efficiency and comfort by repairing and sealing ductwork.

Around 20% to 30% of the air you pay to heat or cool is lost through leaks, holes or poorly installed ductwork in the average home, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This results in wasted energy and uncomfortable homes, regardless of the thermostat setting.

Properly sealing ducts can reduce wasted energy by delivering conditioned air where you want it inside the home. If you have a room that is cold in winter and hot in summer, the culprit might be a leaky or disconnected duct.

Duct sealing also helps with indoor air quality. Leaking return ducts can pull air from the spaces they run through, such as attics and crawl spaces.

Know your ducts You can seal ducts yourself or hire a professional. For a do-it-yourself approach, start with a visual inspection to determine your duct type. Most homes have flexible or metal ducts.

Metal ductwork comes in various shapes and sizes, including round and rectangular, and with various options for turns and connections. Ducts should be insulated when they run through unconditioned spaces, such as crawl spaces, attics and garages. If your metal ducts are insulated, you must remove the insulation to properly seal them, then reinsulate.

Flexible ducts typically have an inner and outer layer with insulation in between. The inner layer is made of bendable plastic reinforced with wire, like a stretchedout Slinky covered in plastic. The outer layer holds the insulation in place. The inner liner in flexible ducts can become brittle over time, cracking easily and causing leaks.

If your inner liner is in bad shape, replace the flexible duct.

Check for any obvious disconnections, gaps, extra bends or sagging ducts. Improve airflow by using short, straight, taut runs. Avoid sags and excess turns.

Wikimedia

Reduce waste and improve indoor air quality Air ducts

Tools of the trade When it comes to installing, repairing and sealing ducts, use products designed for the job.

Metal ductwork should be fastened together at each joint using sheet metal screws. Make sure your ducts are properly supported to keep the joints from separating over time.

For flexible ducts, use Panduit straps. These are heavyduty nylon zip ties that offer long-term durability and a tensioning tool specifically designed to tighten them.

Seal every joint and seam using duct-sealing mastic — a thick paste that can be applied with a paintbrush or gloved hand. When it dries, mastic creates a flexible, airtight seal, eliminating duct leakage. Use mesh tape to bridge larger gaps before applying mastic. Remove register covers inside the home to seal the joints and seams there. You also want a good seal where the duct meets drywall or flooring.

In easier-to-reach areas, you can opt to use UL-listed foil-backed tape designed for ductwork.

Do not use duct tape. Fluctuations in temperature cause the adhesive to fail.

Safety first Duct sealing is messy, so make sure to protect yourself and your home. Use drop cloths to protect flooring. Metal tape and the edges of metal ducts are sharp, so put on coated work or garden gloves underneath nitrile or latex disposable gloves. To protect your arms, wear a longsleeve shirt tucked into your gloves or a long sock with the toes cut out.

After air sealing, have an HVAC professional test the airflow during your next annual maintenance visit.

If you don’t feel comfortable getting your hands dirty, hire a professional. Most companies that install ductwork or heating and cooling systems can also seal ducts.

Sealing your ductwork gives you peace of mind that your home is not wasting energy or introducing unhealthy air into your living space.

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

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CAROLINA | ADVENTURES

Wilkes Heritage Museum Renee Gannon

Asheboro Ghost Walk, Peggy Kilburn

Clockwise, from left: Ghost tours in Asheboro and Wilkesboro; the Old Burying Grounds in Beaufort

Spirits Abound Across North Carolina Ghost tours share local history with a spooky twist

By Renee C. Gannon

When traveling, I often find local tours to learn the area’s history and lore, and ghost walks are a fun, informative adventure. From big cities to small towns across North Carolina, spirited stories set up your imagination and curiosity to learn more.

It’s not just the lady in white on the side of a rural road you’ve been warned not to give a ride. It’s the mule team in Mount Airy that perished tragically; and the sailor who died in a fiery blaze at a long-forgotten hotel in downtown Wilmington. And of course, pirates, always pirates in our coastal towns.

Many walks are family friendly but check before booking. Walks are typically under 2 miles and less than 2 hours. The state’s metro areas offer multiple tours year-round, but don’t overlook the spooky vibes found in smaller towns.

Your local guide may even be a descendant of a ghost you hear about. The smaller tours are often only offered seasonally, so be certain to verify SC

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dates. Here are few of the many ghost walks found in North Carolina: MOUNTAINS Boone This small college town has an abundance of legends and unexplained encounters, from haunted dorms at App State to ghost dogs, soldiers and mystery lights, with historical events tied to many of the tales. tourboone.com/ghost-tours Waynesville Every fall, this mountain town offers a History and Haunts Tour. Guides share tales of those who settled in this rugged area; stories of true crime, folklore and family legends during a mile walk along Main Street. waynesvillewalkingtours.com Wilkesboro The Wilkes Heritage Museum hosts monthly ghost walks featuring local legends, true crimes such as the legend of Tom “Dooley” Dula and historic hauntings. wilkesheritagemuseum.com

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CAROLINA | CALENDAR

First in Fright

Wilkes Heritage Museum

Want to learn more about North Carolina’s haunted history? Check out Visit NC’s NCfirstinfright.com, a website dedicated to the state’s spooky stories. A free podcast is available on the website and most podcast streaming platforms.

“North Carolina is known for being ‘First in Flight,’” said Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit NC. “We’re excited that travelers will now recognize our state as ‘First in Fright’ as well.”

Events: October County Regional Fair Glory Festival 01 Chowan 10 Mountain Sept. 29–Oct. 3 Historic Downtown Marion American Legion Fairgrounds 252-482-4057

02 Oct. 2–3

Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival

Lou Mac Park, Oriental 252-220-2281

PIEDMONT

Fall Antique Fair

Renee Gannon

Asheboro The Historic Downtown Asheboro Ghostwalk, offered through the Sunset Theatre, weaves spooky stories about the people who lived there, including a tragic death by train, a murderous tale and haunted buildings. asheboronc.gov/sunset_theatre Hillsborough Year-round tours in the Triangle area’s oldest town take you back to Colonial days. Visit haunted houses, cemeteries and the public execution site of Regulator soldiers hanged in 1771. hauntedhillsborough.com

Oct. 2–3

Historic Downtown Cameron 910-245-3212

North Carolina Seafood Festival Oct. 2–4

Morehead City Waterfront 252-726-6273

03 Park Avenue, Blowing Rock Art in the Park 828-295-7851

Intracoastal Waterway Celebration Belhaven Harbor Park 914-806-2132

Mount Airy This lantern-lit walking tour through Mount Airy's streets dives into its historic past, detailing 13 of the town’s “less mortal” friends. A ghost trolley tour also runs, but only on the first Saturday in October and on Oct. 31. northcarolinamuseum.org/ghost-tours

Autumn Fest Downtown Mebane 336-269-6154

Heritage & Harvest Bourbon Showcase Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Fayetteville | 910-486-0221

Autumn Market & Fall Festival

COAST Beaufort Led by a pirate guide, the Beaufort Ghost Walk takes you through the historic district of a town founded in 1709 and known as a favorite of Blackbeard. Hear tales of ghost ships, Blackbeard’s curse, Civil War ghosts and spooky encounters at the Old Burying Grounds. pctourco.com/beaufort-ghost-walk Outer Banks The oldest guided walk in Manteo, OBX Ghost Tour searches for eerie happenings in the Outer Banks, from the vanished Roanoke colonists, ghostly pirate tales and unexplained whispers to eerie Manteo historic tales. obxghosttours.com Southport This lantern-led tour dives into small-town lore of hauntings in many pre-Civil War buildings along the historic waterfront as well as the Old Smithville Burying Ground. oldsouthtourcompany.com

Hickory Ridge Museum, Boone 828-264-2120

Pumpkin Fest Oct. 3–30

Silvermont Park, Brevard 828-862-5984

09

Uwharrie Bigfoot Survival and Outdoor Expo Oct. 9–11

Camp Barnhardt | 980-565-8691

Diggery’s Dino Adventure 10 Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

828-652-2215

Autumn at the Acres Sprouting Acres Farm Store 704-305-4217

King Mackerel Tournament Oct. 10–31

Chasin’ Tails Outdoors Bait & Tackle, Atlantic Beach 252-726-2121

Mash 16 Monster Downtown Burlington 336-222-5030

Festival 17 Apple Downtown Taylorsville 828-632-2999

Crystal Coast Highland Games Newport Flea Mall Inc. 252-726-8148

NC Liver Mush Festival Downtown Shelby 704-300-6097

Woolly Worm Festival Oct. 17–18

Historic Banner Elk School 828-898-5605

and Crafts Festival 18 Arts Oct. 18–19 The Arcade Commerce Building, Lake Lure | 828-625-4683

30 Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree Oct. 30–31

Berkley Manor, Ocracoke 252-928-1811

Fest 31 Fall Cape Carteret Town Hall 252-393-8483

Halloween Festival Memorial Park Gazebo, Blowing Rock | 828-295-5222

919-435-9458

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT

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

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

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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 99 +s&p Save $200 C. 1 1/2” Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * Complete Set** $747 * $249 +s&p Save $498 **Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.

B.

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

1-800-333-2045 Offer Code SDT220-01

Rating of A+

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14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. SDT220-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

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A.

26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise

ONLY $99

9/9/2026 2:33:18 PM

CAROLINA | KITCHEN

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

Crispy Baby Blooming Onion Bites Missing your fairday blooming onion?

These crisp pearl onions bring the same fun flavor with none of the fuss.

Fry up a big batch (they go quick!) especially during fall football watch gatherings.

Salty Spiced Maple Dirty Root Beer Toast the arrival of fall with a mug of this fun, lightly spiced dirty soda. Root beer is our favorite but other dark drinks are tasty, too. ¼ cup tablespoons graham cracker or gingersnap crumbs ½ teaspoon pumpkin or apple pie spice Pinch of sea salt ¼ cup maple syrup Cubed or crushed ice

1 bottle (16-ounce) cold root beer or Dr. Pepper ½ cup heavy cream ¼ cup maple syrup ½ teaspoon pumpkin or apple pie spice Whipped cream Cherries

To make the coating for the rim of the glass, mix crumbs, spice and salt on a small plate. Drizzle syrup on another small plate. Dip glass rim in maple syrup using a brush to coat rim about ½-inch deep. Press into crumb mixture tilting the glass making sure to crumb all the syrup.

For the soda, carefully fill the rimmed glass with ice, trying not to disturb the rim.

Pour root beer over ice, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Combine cream, maple syrup and spice; whisk until lightly thickened. Slowly spoon or pour spiced cream over the top.

Finish with whipped cream, a dusting of spice, and cherries!

Yield: 2 drinks

Don’t let the squash in this cake frighten you off. It’s a pumpkin relative, and by the time you pile on the sugar and spice and crown with your fluffy topping, it just tastes like autumn!

N

Butternut Squash Spice Cake

SCAN O

FROM YOUR KITCHEN

P

AG

E 1

2 bags (12-ounce) frozen pearl onions 2 eggs ¾ cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup cornstarch 2 tablespoons of your favorite seasoning blend (we used Aunt Dee Dee’s Kitchen Salt Free Ranch Dip seasoning) ½ teaspoon black pepper Fine salt Vegetable oil for frying (we used peanut) Heat oil to 350 degrees.

Thaw onions until softened, then pat completely dry.

Beat eggs in a shallow bowl.

In a second bowl, combine flour and cornstarch with seasonings.

Gently stir onions in the egg wash and pour into colander for excess to drain away. Toss a few at the time in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Put on a tray and let rest 5 minutes to allow batter to cling better. This makes for crispier onions.

Fry onions in batches 4–5 minutes, gently moving about in the oil until golden and crisp. Drain on wire rack. Dust while hot with salt. Best if served immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Yield: Makes 6–8 as an appetizer

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

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CAROLINA | SNAPSHOTS

1

2

3

4

CANDY CRAZY 1 Koral Duygulu, Waxhaw, A member of Union Power

2 Candace Creech, West End 3 Shanna Stawicki, Swansboro A member of Jones-Onslow EMC

4 Amanda Morrison, Bolivia

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: December: Winterscapes | January: Morning Light | February: Acts of Love

where

in Carolina Country is this?

Send your answer by Oct. 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 December 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 August “Where Is This” photo by Carolina Country’s Renee Gannon features Major General Nathanael Greene (the “fighting Quaker”), located at the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park off New Garden Road in Greensboro. While Greene and his men did not win here in March 1781, the battle changed the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. After the battle, British Lord General Charles Cornwallis stated: “I never saw such fighting since God made me. The Americans fought like demons.” The fight weakened the British forces, serving as the beginning of the end for Britain as Cornwallis would surrender at Yorktown later that year. General Greene is now surrounded by a city named in his honor. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Dean Senecal of Palm Coast, Florida, a Blue Ridge Energy member.

24 | October 2026

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9/9/2026 11:01:03 AM

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1-800-995-8795 Visit YourSafeStepTub.com *Offer expires 11/30/26. Free toilet with purchase and installation of a walk-in tub or walk-in shower only. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Market restrictions may apply.

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9/2/2026 11:37:28 AM

LOCAL POWER:

Lasting Promise A promise between neighbors still means something.

More than eighty years ago, not-for-profit electric cooperatives were formed to bring electricity to rural North Carolina. A lot has changed since then. Our grid and communities have evolved, but that deep sense of connection remains the same. Today, we’re still familiar, local faces providing reliable, affordable power. And we still prioritize people over profits. That’s our promise to you.

Your membership. Your community. Your cooperative.

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9/8/2026 9/3/26 12:03:37 3:10 PM PM

TWO WAYS

TO STAY ONE STEP AHEAD

Two smart tools to help you monitor your usage and manage your budget.

1 USAGE TRACKER

2 BUDGET BILLING Smooth out seasonal highs and lows with predictable monthly bills.

See when your energy use is highest so you can make simple changes to use less and save more.

Predictable monthly payments.

See daily use.

Less seasonal fluctuation.

See how weather affects usage.

Hassle-free billing.

Receive alerts.

The account is "evened up" in the 12th month, with a final payment billed or credit applied.

BUDGET BILLING Available FREE on the Blue Ridge Mobile App or through "My Account" at

BlueRidgeEnergy.com

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Todaeryvice Free S

BlueRidgeEnergy.com/BudgetBilling

9/9/26 3:30 PM

Small Steps.

Smarter $avings.

You don't have to tackle every tip to make a difference.

Start with one or two that fit your lifestyle, then build from there.

5-Minute Savings Turn off lights that aren’t being used.

Open blinds & curtains on sunny winter days to let in natural warmth, & close them during hot summer days to keep your home cooler.

Don't peek in the oven while baking! (also a good baking tip!)

Set water heater temperature no higher than 120°F. Clean your dryer's lint trap before each load.

No-Cost Savings Wait until your dishwasher is full before starting a wash cycle.

Wash dishes and clothes in cold water.

Don't let water run while shaving or brushing your teeth.

Switch your ceiling fan direction to rotate clockwise in winter to help circulate warm air downwards.

Limit shower length to 5–7 minutes.

Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in summer and as low as comfortably possible in winter.

Weekend Project Savings Fix dripping faucets and other water leaks.

Block drafts around doors or windows by replacing weatherstripping and caulking around windows.

Ensure attic access door is insulated and closes tightly.

Install a programmable HVAC thermostat.

Have your HVAC system serviced once per year by a NATE-certified technician.

More money saving tips available at

BlueRidgeEnergy.com

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