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October 2026

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HONOR YOUR HERO See how on back cover

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October 2026

The magazine of

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FEATURE

Eat well at the NC State Fair SOUTH RIVER EMC

Learn how the Cooperative Difference benefits you 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?

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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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CAROLINA | LIVING

Bring Home the Fall Festival Start an autumn tradition every generation will enjoy

By Rue Reynold

You don't need a crowded event, expensive admission ticket or a long drive to enjoy the magic of fall festival season. With a little creativity, your backyard, patio or even driveway can become a cozy gathering place filled with seasonal fun that feels just as memorable as a community festival. Best of all, it's easy to adapt for families, couples, groups of friends or neighbors.

Set the autumn scene Start with your home before buying new decorations. Soft blankets, woven baskets, lanterns, string lights, pumpkins, potted mums and colorful fall leaves can quickly transform an outdoor space into a welcoming retreat. Arrange separate areas for eating, playing games and relaxing so guests can move comfortably throughout the gathering. Remember to have a playlist filled with folk, acoustic, country or classic autumn favorites to add to the warmth and help set the mood the moment everyone arrives.

Serve festival-inspired favorites No fall festival is complete without seasonal treats. Set up a self-serve station with hot apple cider, hot chocolate or coffee so guests can refill their cups throughout the evening. Offer favorites like popcorn, caramel apples, soft pretzels, roasted nuts or kettle corn for easy snacking. For the main meal, keep things simple with chili, baked potatoes or grilled hot dogs that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings. Consider a buffet-style setup so guests can eat whenever they're ready without interrupting the fun.

Bring out the classic games Classic festival games are easy to recreate with inexpensive supplies and a little imagination. Ring toss, cornhole and sack races appeal to guests of all ages, while pumpkin bowling — using small pumpkins to knock down empty bottles or bowling pins — adds a festive twist. Apple relay races or scavenger hunts can also encourage friendly competition. Offer small homemade treats, ribbons or seasonal trinkets as prizes to make each game feel a little more special.

Add a make-and-take activity A simple craft gives everyone something to remember the day by. Guests can paint mini pumpkins, press colorful leaves into bookmarks, decorate caramel apples or assemble fall garlands using natural materials. These hands-on projects are enjoyable for both children and adults while adding another creative element to the celebration.

End around the fire As the evening cools, gather around a fire pit or outdoor heater if conditions allow. Roast marshmallows, share stories, listen to music or simply enjoy conversation beneath the stars. If an open fire isn't an option, wrap up in cozy blankets with warm drinks and glowing lanterns to create the same inviting atmosphere.

A memorable fall celebration doesn't require elaborate decorations or a large budget. With simple food, classic activities and time spent together, an ordinary backyard can become the setting for traditions that everyone looks forward to year after year.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.

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CAROLINA | LIVING

Fall without the Haul Simple ways to celebrate the season without buying it all

By Rue Reynold

Store shelves fill with new candles, sweaters, mugs, blankets and décor — all promising to make life feel a little cozier, which may encourage us to shop. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying seasonal finds, you don’t need to reinvent your home or wardrobe to embrace autumn. Instead, focus on experiencing the season.

Shop your own home Before heading to the store, rediscover what you already have. Bring out forgotten decorations, rearrange blankets and pillows or display candles and baskets in new places. Even fallen leaves or branches can bring a touch of autumn indoors.

Give your closet a fall refresh Experiment with new combinations before buying new clothes. Layer summer dresses with cardigans, pair T-shirts with jackets and bring favorite scarves, boots and sweaters back into rotation.

Sometimes an old wardrobe feels surprisingly new after a season away.

Taste the season Let food create that cozy fall feeling. Bake

an apple crisp, make homemade cider, try a comforting soup or invite friends over for chili.

Seasonal flavors can become traditions rather than purchases.

Collect experiences, not things Simple experiences like a scenic walk, collecting colorful leaves or curling up with a favorite autumn read can create the same seasonal excitement without the clutter. Also consider visiting a local festival, decorating pumpkins you can later compost and ending the night around a bonfire.

Buy what matters Seasonal shopping doesn’t have to be off-limits.

When something catches your eye, consider whether you’ll enjoy it for years, thrift when practical and choose one item you truly love over several impulse buys.

Fall is happening all around you. Enjoy the weather, sights, traditions and people that make it special — no shopping spree necessary.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.

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South River EMC

Communicator

October 2026

Local Voices Shape Solutions October is National Co-op Month

When you hear the word cooperative, what comes to mind? As your local electric co-op, we hope you think of South River EMC. Regardless of the services offered, all cooperatives have one thing in common: they’re led by the people they serve––and that simple idea makes a meaningful difference.

Cooperatives come in all shapes and sizes, each created to meet a specific need. Credit unions help members save and borrow money. Producer cooperatives, like Ocean Spray and Land O'Lakes, help farmers bring their products to market. Retail cooperatives, like REI and ACE Hardware, are owned by their shoppers or a membership of store owners, while housing cooperatives give residents a voice in managing their communities. And utility cooperatives—like South River EMC—provide reliable electricity to the communities they serve.

Unlike many businesses that answer to outside investors or shareholders, cooperatives are built for their members. Their goal isn’t simply to earn a profit—it’s to provide value, meet unique local needs and strengthen the communities they call home.

That’s exactly what makes South River EMC different.

Our story began in 1940 when neighbors came together to bring electricity to an area when other utilities wouldn’t. While a lot has changed since then, our purpose has remained steady. We’re still here to provide power and make decisions with our community’s best interests in mind.

continued on page B

South River EMC's first board (l-r): [back]: Bynum Jackson, L.D. Herring, L.A. Hall, Kyle Harrington, Ralph Johnson [front]: Rebekah Evans, E.E. Fisher, Kesler Butler

South River EMC earns this award based on data modeled by the ACSI® in 2024. Award criteria are determined by the ACSI based on customers rating their satisfaction with South River EMC in a survey independent of the syndicated ACSI Energy Utility Study.

For more about the ACSI, visit theacsi.org/ badges. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC.

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LOCAL continued from page A

Being locally owned means we have the flexibility to focus on what matters most to the communities we serve. That’s why no two electric cooperatives are exactly alike. Every community has different needs, and every cooperative reflects those priorities.

For some co-ops, that means expanding programs that help members save energy and money.

Others may focus on supporting economic development, investing in new technology or creating new opportunities for local students.

South River EMC assists the community through programs like Operation Round Up, which benefits schools and non-profits, benefitting our local communities at large.

You’ll also find the co-op difference in the little things. It’s the lineworkers restoring power after a storm. The employees

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answering your questions when you call. The team members volunteering at community events. The board members— your neighbors—who help guide decisions for the future.

We’re your neighbor and local energy partner, and we’re committed to serving this community for generations to come.

This National Co-op Month, we invite you to join us in celebrating

the cooperative difference, because this co-op belongs to you.

Whether it’s South River EMC, your local credit union or ACE Hardware, cooperatives prove that when people work together, everyone benefits.

Your membership is what makes our mission possible—and it’s what keeps us focused on serving the people and communities that matter most.

sremc.com

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Change Coming To Net Metering Beginning in November, members who participate in net metering will see a change in how energy generation is distributed within your bill.

Previously, if you had a solar

system connected through net metering, all energy generated was put toward your entire bill, including fixed monthly charges.

As of Nov. 1, energy generated through solar systems connec-

ted by net metering, will go specifically toward energy charges.

This will not include fixed monthly charges and fees such as the grid access charge, outdoor or subdivision lighting, and any other applicable monthly fees or charges.

If your solar system generates more energy than you used during a billing period, that will roll forward to be applied to future energy use.

There will be no loss, just a change to distribution.

If you have any questions, contact us at 910.892.8071.

Honor Your Veteran through our

Fields of Honor

Visit: sremcfields.com before Oct. 28.

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On the go and need to make a payment? South River EMC offers several different payment options.

Scan the QR code.

Trip of a Lifetime: Electric Cooperative Youth Tour South River EMC is committed to investing in the next generation of leaders in our communities.

One way we do this is through the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, an exciting week-long educational experience that gives local high school students the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. The Youth Tour provides students with much more than a sightseeing trip. Participants explore our nation’s capital, visit historic monuments and the Smithsonian museums, tour Capitol Hill and learn more about 2026 Youth Tourists June McIntyre and Caleb Faircloth

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American history and government.

Students also have the opportunity to meet with members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation and gain a firsthand understanding of the legislative process.

Another important part of Youth Tour is learning about the cooperative business model and the role electric cooperatives play in their communities.

Along the way, students will meet other young people from across North Carolina and the country, creating friendships and memories that can last a lifetime.

The experience also helps students develop leadership, communication and civic engagement skills.

South River EMC selects students from our service area to attend Youth Tour at no cost to the students.

In addition to the trip, South River EMC Youth Tour participants are eligible for a $1,000 college scholarship for the Cooperative, and the opportunity for two additional scholarships through our statewide organization.

Youth Tour is an opportunity to step outside the classroom, experience our nation’s history firsthand, meet new people and discover new possibilities for the future.

South River EMC is proud to provide this experience and help prepare young people to become tomorrow’s leaders.

For more information about the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour scan, the QR code.

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Time-of-Use Changes Nov. 1 We apologize for a mistake that appeared in last month's newsletter. We have corrected the Grid Access information in the table at right.

The time-of-use rate continues to reward members who shift their energy use to lower-cost, off-peak hours. While the rate is changing to reflect today's energy costs, members who adjust when they use electricity can still save compared to the standard residential rate.

Important Times To Remember Winter (Oct. 16- Apr. 15) On-peak: 6- 9 a.m.

Grid Access Charge: No Change Current rate: All on-peak energy

21.90 ¢

All-off peak energy

8.76 ¢

All super off-peak energy

4.39 ¢

Updated rate:

Summer (Apr. 16- Oct. 15.)

On-peak: 2- 6 p.m. *Monday- Friday, excluding major holidays* Super off-peak 10 p.m.- 5 a.m. daily All other hours are off peak

All on-peak energy

30 ¢

All off-peak energy

10.341 ¢

All super off-peak energy

7.889 ¢

Borrow a Page from the Co-op Playbook With October being National Co-op Month, cooperatives can have a lot to teach us about smart money habits.

Co-ops are built on member ownership and a shared stake in the outcome—and in practice, that tends to translate into patience and a long view. You can apply the same mindset to your own finances: Think long-term. Co-ops are built around the needs of generations of members, not just what happens this year.

The same goes for your retirement savings. Small, consistent contributions today may add up to meaningful progress down the road.

Reinvest in yourself. Many co-ops return profits to

members as capital credits.

Consider doing the same: redirect a tax refund, bonus or unexpected extra income into savings or debt payoff instead of spending it right away.

Lean on community. Co-ops succeed through collective strength. Don't be afraid to lean on trusted resources.

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ENERGY SMARTS Weatherization Can Improve Comfort and Energy Costs Weatherizing your home can help improve comfort while reducing energy waste.

South River EMC offers a rebate to eligible homeowners who have weatherization work completed through a Community Action program.

The weatherization package for

qualifying single-family or manufactured homes includes air and duct sealing, improved insulation, an HVAC tune-up or replacement, and installation of a programmable thermostat in homes with a heat pump or electric furnace/ central air conditioning.

To qualify for the rebate, the

complete weatherization package must be completed.

If you think your home could benefit from weatherization, this program may help make needed improvements more affordable.

For eligibility requirements and rebate details, scan the QR code.

Heating And Cooling With a High-Efficiency System Heating and cooling your home can account for a significant portion of your monthly energy use, making an efficient HVAC system an important investment.

South River EMC offers rebates to members who purchase qualifying highefficiency heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps and central air-conditioning units.

When shopping for a new system, pay attention to its SEER2 rating, which measures cooling

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efficiency. Generally, the higher the SEER2 rating, the more efficiently the system operates. South River EMC offers rebates on qualifying systems rated 16 SEER2 or greater, helping members make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable.

If your heating and cooling system is older or you're planning a replacement, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit. A more efficient system can help reduce energy use while providing reliable

comfort throughout the year. For current rebate amounts, eligibility requirements and application information, scan the QR code.

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Hot water is an important part of everyday life, but heating water can also account for a significant amount of your home's energy use.

When your water heater needs replaced, consider an energyefficient option that can provide reliable hot water while helping reduce energy consumption.

South River EMC offers rebates

on heat pump water heaters and solar water heaters.

Heat pump water heaters transfer heat from the surrounding air to heat water, while solar water heaters use energy from the sun. Both options can help members improve their home's energy efficiency and potentially lower water-heating costs.

If your water heater is old or

you're planning a replacement, take time to research which option is best for your home. A rebate can help make the investment more affordable.

For current rebate amounts, eligibility requirements and application information, scan the QR code.

ENERGY SMARTS

Tap Into Savings With an Energy-Efficient Water Heater

A Clear Choice for Comfort and Savings Windows do more than provide a view—they help protect your home from outdoor temperatures and the elements.

As windows age, they can become less efficient, allowing unwanted air to enter and conditioned air to escape.

Signs windows may need replacing include drafts, condensation between panes, difficulty

opening or closing, damaged frames, or deteriorating caulking and weatherstripping.

If replacing your windows is the right choice for your home, South River EMC offers a rebate for qualifying Energy Star window replacements. Upgrading windows can improve comfort and help reduce energy waste.

Before replacing your windows,

consider addressing weatherization, insulation, and heating and cooling efficiency as well.

Then, if new windows are needed, the South River EMC rebate can help make the upgrade more affordable. For eligibility requirements and rebate details, scan the QR code.

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ADVISE GUYS

Message from Advise Guy Robby Talton

Protect Your Home’s Electronics Before It’s Too Late Homes are filled with valuable electronics and appliances that contain sensitive electronic components that can be damaged by power surges. South River EMC offers affordable protection to help safeguard your investment.

What Is a Power Surge?

A power surge is a sudden spike in voltage that can last only a fraction of a second, but can cause significant damage to electronic equipment. Common causes of power surges include: • Lightning strikes • Vehicle accidents involving utility poles • Animals contacting power lines • Large appliances cycling on and off • Faulty wiring in the home • Poor grounding systems While some surges are powerful enough to destroy equipment instantly, many are smaller and go unnoticed. Over time, surges wear down electronic components and microprocessors, leading to equipment failures.

Why Protection Matters Electronics are more advanced than ever, but also more sensitive. A split-second voltage change can:

• Damage circuit boards and microchips • Corrupt stored data • Reduce the life of appliances • Cause costly repairs • Lead to equipment failure Most homes contain thousands of dollars' worth of electronic devices. Even equipment that is turned off can be damaged by a voltage surge.

The Best Defense: Two Levels of Protection Experts recommend a two-stage approach to surge protection. Using both whole-house and point-of-use protection provides the best defense against surges.

Whole-House Protection South River EMC offers the Strike Guard whole-house protector, a high-energy surge suppressor installed directly at your meter base.

Benefits include: • Protecting your home's electric system • Helping stop damaging surges before they enter your home • Providing protection for major appliances and electronics Plug-In Surge Protection For added security, plug-in surge suppressors are recommended for

electronics such as: • Computers • Televisions • Gaming systems • Home office equipment These devices provide an additional layer of protection against surges.

Professional Installation You Can Trust All Strike Guard equipment is installed by trained South River EMC employees. Before installation, technicians will: • Inspect your home's grounding and verify adequacy • Ensure surge protection equipment is properly installed Protect Your Investment Today Electric utilities have equipment in place to reduce the impact of power surges, but not every surge can be prevented. That's why protecting your home is one of the smartest investments you can make.

South River EMC has a solution to fit your needs, contact us to learn more about Strike Guard surge protection or scan the QR code.

PO Box 931 Dunn, NC 28335 910.892.8071 800.338.5530 sremc.com

Follow Us! southriveremc

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Co-op Month Quiz October is National Co-op Month Did you know there are many different kinds of cooperatives?

A cooperative, or co-op, is a business that’s owned by the people who use it. Some co-ops help people buy groceries, some help farmers sell their crops and some— like your electric co-op—bring power to your home.

Read each clue below and guess the type of cooperative you think it is.

Answer choices: Worker

Producer

Consumer

Utility

Retail

Financial

Housing

1. Your local electric cooperative

5. A grocery co-op

It keeps the lights on, restores power after storms and is owned by the members it serves.

Local shoppers become members to help support a community grocery store and buy fresh foods.

Type: ______________________

Type: ______________________

2. REI

6. A cooperative apartment building

People can become members to shop for outdoor gear, enjoy special benefits and help support the business.

People work together to own and manage the place where they live.

Type: ______________________

3. Ocean Spray Thousands of cranberry and grapefruit farmers work together to grow fruit and produce juice sold across the country.

Type: ______________________

Type: ______________________

7. A cooperative bakery The people who bake the bread, decorate the cakes and serve customers also own the business together.

Type: ______________________

4. Your local credit union Members save money, open checking accounts and apply for loans through a financial institution they own together.

Type: ______________________

Answer Key: 1. Utility 2. Retail 3. Producer 4. Financial 5. Consumer 6. Housing 7. Worker

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CAROLINA | LIVING

The Stories Behind Halloween Traditions How folklore and centuries of changing customs helped shape Oct. 31

By Rue Reynold

Costumes, carved pumpkins, candy and spooky decorations feel inseparable from Halloween — yet the holiday we recognize today wasn’t created all at once. Instead, it took shape over centuries, influenced by folklore, religious observances, various cultures and community celebrations. While historians continue to debate the origins of certain practices, modern Halloween reflects a rich mixture of beliefs and festivities passed down and transformed across generations.

From Samhain to All Hallows Among Halloween’s earliest influences is the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Centuries later, Christian observances such as All Saints’ Day (also known as All Hallows’ Day) and All Souls’ Day became associated with the same time of year. The evening before All Hallows became known as All Hallows’ Eve, eventually shortened to Halloween. Rather than originating from one celebration, the holiday emerged through many cultural and religious influences that intertwined over time.

Why we dress in costumes Disguises and masks have long appeared in seasonal celebrations throughout Britain and Ireland, including a practice known as “guising.”

Participants dressed up and sometimes traveled from house to house, but there have not been concrete connections to how these activities relate to modern Halloween. As similar practices made their way across the Atlantic, dressing up took on new forms, eventually becoming the playful, imaginative part of Oct. 31 we know today.

How trick-or-treating developed The familiar trip from doorstep to doorstep also has a complicated past. Practices such as “souling” and guising involved visiting homes in exchange for food or small gifts, often after offering prayers, songs or performances. By the 20th century, neighborhood trick-or-treating had gained popularity in the United States, particularly as communities embraced more organized Halloween festivities. Eventually, individually wrapped candy became the treat of choice.

Why we carve jack-o’-lanterns Jack-o’-lanterns are often linked to Irish folklore surrounding a wandering figure known as Stingy Jack. In Ireland and Britain, people carved eerie faces into turnips and other root vegetables. Immigrants arriving in America found pumpkins larger, plentiful and much easier to carve, making them an ideal substitute. The glowing gourds soon grew into one of the season’s most recognizable symbols.

Bobbing for apples Apples appeared in various European courtship and fortune-telling activities, sometimes used to predict future romance or marriage. As their symbolic associations faded, games involving the fruit remained, with apple bobbing eventually becoming lighthearted Halloween entertainment popular with all ages.

As people from diverse cultures carried beliefs and celebrations with them, old practices mingled with new ones. Parties, costumes, games and neighborhood gatherings all contributed to Halloween’s transformation into a holiday centered largely on fun, creativity and community. Its history shows that celebrations rarely remain unchanged. Instead, each generation reshapes them while carrying pieces of the past forward.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.

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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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Visit carolinacountry.com or scan the QR code on page 1 for a collection of Halloween-themed recipes, crafts and stories.

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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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So if you’ve ever felt a medical alert device was too complicated or expensive, you’ll want to get

FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device with no monthly bills.

The medical alert device slugfest was dominated by two main combatants who both offer old style monitored help buttons that come with a hefty bill every month. But now Universal Physicians, the U.S. based heavyweight, just delivered a knockout blow sending the top rated contenders to the mat with the unveiling of FastHelp. It’s the sleek new cellular embedded medical alert device that cuts out the middleman by instantly connecting you directly to highly trained 911 operators all across the U.S. There’s absolutely nothing to hook-up or install. You don’t need a land line and you don’t need a cell phone. Everything is done for you. ■

■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio. “Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.

Seniors born before 1964 get big boost Instantly connects to free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button with no contracts, no deposits, and no monthly bills Seniors born before 1964 get new medical alert device Nationwide: Demand for new Medical Alert Device soars The phone lines are ringing off the hook.

That’s because for seniors born before 1964, it’s a deal too good to pass up.

Starting at precisely 8:30am today the PreStore Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“It’s not like old style help buttons that make you talk to a call center, only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month.

FastHelp comes with state-of-the-art cellular embedded technology. That means it works at home or anywhere and everywhere cell service is available whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino.

You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack Lawrence, Executive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians.

“We’ve never seen anything like it. Consum- ■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called ers absolutely love the sleek new modern design FastHelp. They are now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at and most of all, today’s instant rebate practi- 1-800-221-2809 DEPT. FSTH219 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere

(Continued on next page) cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

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— ADVERTISEMENT —

(Continued from previous page)

cally pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said.

FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever. ■ The only device that makes you look important, not old The problem with medical alert devices is, nobody wants to wear them because it makes them look old. Well, that’s not the case with FastHelp. That’s because it’s the first state of the art medical alert device designed to make you look important, not old. Old style monitored help buttons you wear around your neck, or require expensive base station equipment or a landline are the equivalent of a horse and buggy, it’s just outdated.

Millions of seniors fall every year and spend hours lying on the floor helpless and all alone with no help.

But seniors who fall and get immediate help are much more likely to avoid getting sent to a nursing home and get to STAY living in their own home independently.

Yet millions of seniors are still risking their safety by not having a medical alert device. That’s because seniors just can’t afford to pay the monthly bills that come with old style medical alert devices.

That’s why seniors born before 1964 are rushing to cash in the whopping $150 instant rebate before the 30 day deadline ends.

So there’s no need to wait for FastHelp to hit store shelves later this year because seniors born before 1964 can get it now just by using the $150 instant rebate coupon printed in today’s publication before the 30 day deadline ends. If lines are busy keep trying, all calls will be answered. ■

Doctor urges seniors to get new medical alert device Instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever

BORN AFTER 1964: You cannot use the rebate coupon to the right and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-221-9773 EXT. ADFH1026

All seniors born Nothing to hook before 1964 are get- up. You don’t need ting a $150 rebate a land line or cell and cover just $149 phone. It’s ready making this deal to use right out of too good to pass up the box

nd t hei r fa m i ly Seniors snap amembers are snapup new medical p i n g up a s le ek alert device that new medical alert that comes comes with no device w it h no mont h ly monthly bills bills ever,” he said.

Many seniors rePeople don’t al- f use to wea r old ways do what their style help buttons do c t or s ay s , but because they make when seasoned vet- them look old. But e r a n e m e r g e n c y even worse, those room physician, Dr. medical alert sysPhilip B. How ren t e m s c o m e w i t h says ever y senior monthly bills. should have a medi- To s olve t he s e cal alert device, you problems Universal better listen up.

Physicians, a U.S. “ S e n i o r s a r e company, went to just one fall away work to develop a contracts, no deposfrom being put in a new, modern, state- its and no monthly nursing home,” Dr. o f - t h e - a r t m e d i - bills ever.

Howren said. “With cal alert device. It’s “ This slick new a m e d i c a l a l e r t called “FastHelp™” little device is dedevice, seniors are and it instantly con- signed to look inn e v e r a l o n e . S o nects you to free cognito to slip in it keeps them liv- unlimited nation- you r p o cket . S e ing independently w ide help ever y- n ior s love t hem , in their own home. where cell service because it actualThat’s why seniors is available with no ly makes them look

important, not old,” Dr. Howren said.

FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select publications. ■

Five Star Customer Reviews Hurricane Help “We had two hurricanes recently.

I had no electricity for 6 days. I fell, so I pushed the button, and they came right out and picked me up off the floor. I tell many of my friends they need to get FastHelp!” - Virginia, FL

LIFESAVER “When I got my FastHelp I never thought I’d have to use it, but when I fell and broke my hip it saved my life.” - Harold, OH Very appreciative of having FastHelp “I did have an emergency. Help RESPONDED quickly and came in a few minutes.” - Irving, PA

WE LOVE THE PRODUCT “We bought it outright with no bills ever.” - Rosemary, NY Safe anywhere “This little FastHelp device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my daughter-in-law got it for me.”

Pete, FL

A+ Rating: These are unsolicited consumer feedback from satisfied customers as reported to Universal Physicians.

HOW TO GET IT BORN BEFORE 1964: Use the rebate coupon to the right and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-221-2809 EXT. FSTH219

Comes with new cellular embedded technology that works at home or anywhere you go so you are never alone

BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around.

We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up.

With the instant FastHelp rebate, it is a real steal at just $149 and shipping. There are no monthly bills ever.

PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal a must have. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.

CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1964 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 30 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.

REBATE COUPON

VALID FOR USE

30 DAYS ONLY

Amount of Rebate (AOR)

1P

$150.00 OFF

FSTH219 2Y RE: DLVY: ML2077R1

1 OF 1

PLEASE USE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER WITH NO TRANSACTION FEE. ALL OTHER PAYMENT FORMS HAVE A THREE PERCENT TRANSACTION FEE. FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 4G CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES P7484 OF24656R-1 TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720.

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Dress up dinner with this simple and healthy Glazed Salmon with Caesar Fettuccine. Find the recipe on our website, courtesy of Bo Weichel, aka Shotgun Bo.

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

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CAROLINA | KITCHEN

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!

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Butternut Squash Spice Cake

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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

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2

3

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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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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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Salute our defenders this Veteran’s Day.

South River EMC is proud to host a field of honor during the week of Veteran’s Day, at both offices. ​ ach office will host 500 flags, many sponsored in honor or memory E of military members. Flags will be on display November 6-16. ​ ou can sponsor a flag saluting a current, former or deceased Y member of the military with a minimum $25 donation each.

Every 3-foot x 5-foot flag will carry a tag bearing the name of one honored vet. All proceeds will go to local veterans’ organizations.

Deadline to sponsor a flag is October 28, 2026.

To sponsor one or more Fields of Honor flags, visit sremcfields.com.

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