ALBEMARLE RESIDENTS MAXIMIZE TIME ON THE HOME FRONT
Hibiscus plants like this rich pink-colored one are favored for both their blooms and ability to endure summer's heat. They vary in size and can grow from the ground or in pots where they can brighten decks and patios. Photo Courtesy Kesha Williams
Extension agency sees uptick in website visits, requests for information
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By Kesha Williams Correspondent
oastal Carolina lifestyle trends have long featured small group gatherings, handmade crafts and menus high in comfort foods. This year, following all the recommendations to limit the size of gatherings because of COVID-19, is no exception. The hosts of small gatherings are finally ready to drape tablecloths across outdoor tables where guests can pause to marvel at the coastal decor before loading their plates. Adults are introducing simple outdoor activities to teens and tweens, such as cornhole, badminton and doubledutch jump rope as well as song routines. For those who haven’t had enough computer screen time, a list of virtual tours of the nation’s and world’s famed museums, national parks and aquariums is just a click away. UNC-TV, the state's public television network, offers its members video-on-demand access to Public Broadcast System programs. Gardeners have been busy planting, fertilizing, snipping and clipping. The results: fresh peppers and tomatoes just ripe to complement char-grilled burgers, hot dogs, or blackened shrimp kebobs. The work of flower gardeners is fully displayed beside patio tables where arrangements of bold zinnias, sunflowers, peonies and dahlia sprout. Rich color tropicals, such as the hibiscus adored for its 4- to 8-inch wide flowers, enliven decks and paver walkways. News reports of increased online sales of cookware and bakeware justify the steady roll of delivery trucks to home cooks and bakers. Scan tables across multiple neighborhood yards to find seasonal favorites including berry cobblers, apple cream cheese bundt cakes, grilled corn, cobb salads, hush puppies, baked fish, salsas, Carolina style beef brisket,
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Albemarle Magazine Summer 2020
