Our mission is to serve the energy needs of our members today and in the future at the lowest cost consistent with sound economic principles and management.
MPD Electric Cooperative Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
MPD Annual Meeting Is Saturday, Oct. 4
Are you excited about fall? I just love the crisp morning air, football and all of the local fall festivals our region has to offer.
The fall event I look forward to most each year is the MPD Electric Cooperative annual meeting. Each October, we meet at the historic Darlington Raceway for food, music, prayer and prizes.
This year’s annual meeting is Saturday, Oct. 4. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at Darlington Raceway, with the official meeting starting at noon. To register the day of the meeting, enter Gate 39B just off Harry Byrd Highway, and pull into one of the open lanes. Make sure to bring this edition of South Carolina Currents, as it includes your registration barcode. At registration, you will receive an instant $25 bill credit as a thank you.
We are also hosting two preregistration days:
• 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the MPD Electric Bennettsville office
• 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at Darlington Raceway
The most exciting part of the annual meeting is seeing who wins the grand prize. There are two grand prizes this year, including $10,000 cash. You must be present to win the grand prize. But just for registering, you are automatically entered to win one of more than 50 raffle prizes. You do not have to be present to win these prizes—we’ll make sure to get them to you after the event.
We’ll be having so much fun on Saturday that you and your family won’t want to miss it. Dance along to music by NTRANZE, and be sure to stop by the face-painting and balloon artist station. Bring some cash to buy a delicious hot dog from our Power to Serve tent. We’ll be selling raffle tickets for $1 to enter another cash prize drawing.
All proceeds from the food tent and raffle ticket sale benefit our Power to Serve program to help community members in need.
We look forward to seeing you Saturday, Oct. 4. Come visit, catch up and enjoy fellowship.
See you there!
DON TEAL Trustee
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT
Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Chasity Anderson, CCC
SC CURRENTS EDITORS
Jennifer Paton, CCC
Valeri Saldanha Rosa
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Victoria Hampton, CCC
David Herder, CCC
Sable Riley, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
SENIOR MANAGER, PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
South Carolina Currents (issue 76) is published monthly, except in December, by Pioneer Utility Resources, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Preferred periodical postage permit number 23830 paid at Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: South Carolina Currents, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Subscription price of $9.89 per year includes postage.
HOW TO CONTACT CURRENTS
Have a problem receiving your edition of South Carolina Currents? Utility members should contact MPD Electric Cooperative. Reprint permission: Direct all requests to Pioneer Utility Resources.
MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS
Please do not send unsolicited materials. If interested in writing for South Carolina Currents, query first. Include a selfaddressed stamped envelope for writers’ guidelines. Address requests and queries to Pioneer Utility Resources.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
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Willie Wiredhand is the longtime mascot and spokesplug of electric cooperatives around the United States. He was adopted in 1951 by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Here’s your task: Willie is hidden somewhere in every issue of Currents. See if you can find this friendly face among the news and stories as you read!
Rice and grits go Italian with a few simple tweaks Page 34 Page 12
An exploration of 15 ports of call, with guided excursion options at each
All onboard meals and our signature evening cocktail hour
Full enrichment package with guest speakers and nightly entertainment
All tips and gratuities
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of New England. From quaint island villages to the breathtaking beauty of the coastline, summer in New England is a truly delightful experience. Discover the region’s rich maritime heritage, savor a traditional Lobsterbake, and marvel at grand mansions of the Gilded Age. Return to the comfort of your onboard sanctuary and bask in the warm camaraderie of fellow guests and crew.
After two years at a Washington, D.C., private school—where I succeeded more at the school newspaper than my political science major—I knew I needed a change in course. But where to go next? My father attended Tulane University, so Louisiana State University was out of the question. They were avid rivals.
But then a friend from my home state of Louisiana animatedly detailed the pregame show of a Saturday night in Baton Rouge— how the LSU Tiger Band marches silently on the field and, in an instant, dramatically performs “Tiger Rag” while the stadium erupts. Goosebumps ran up my arms. It sounded like the perfect college experience. With the state school price tag, my father agreed. There are so many similar traditions at colleges across the South, enhancing that collegiate ambiance that makes each university unique and special.
Clemson and the University of South Carolina
There’s a long-standing rivalry between Clemson and South Carolina, and each college has its own traditions around the annual football matchup. South Carolina burns a massive papiermache tiger surrounded by cheering fans, while Clemson holds a funeral for Cocky, South Carolina’s rooster mascot.
Rivalry aside, Clemson’s football team dresses out at Fike Field
House and runs down the hill on to the field at the start of each game, a tradition some call the most exciting 25 seconds in college football.
Players also honor a rock from Death Valley, California, that was brought to the field in 1967. Then-coach Frank Howard told his players that if they gave 110% against Wake Forest, they would receive the privilege of rubbing that rock. The team won, and “Howard’s Rock” became a Clemson football tradition.
English bulldog Uga proudly represents the University of Georgia.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UGA
Cocky, the University of South Carolina mascot, welcomes visitors to campus.. PHOTO BY CHERE COEN
Traditions
LEFT: University of Alabama’s famed coach Paul “Bear” Bryant is immortalized in bronze as part of the school’s Walk of Champions. PHOTO BY CHERÉ COEN
South Carolina Gamecocks fans line up out-of-service train cabooses—called “Cockabooses”—outside Williams-Brice Stadium. Each train car is privately owned and outfitted for tailgating.
University of Georgia
Georgia has gone to the dogs. The UGA mascot is an adorable English bulldog named Uga. Heading into the country’s 10th largest stadium, students sing for “Calling the Dawgs,” a song that ends with a woof.
There’s even a Dawg Walk, where thousands of fans greet the players and coaches at the main entrance to Sanford Stadium while the Georgia Redcoat Band plays. If the football team wins, fans head to the Chapel Bell on the North Campus and ring it into the night.
On the superstitious side, undergraduates are warned not to walk under the circa-1850s black iron arch on the North Campus for fear of not graduating.
Murray State University
If you meet your “sole” mate while attending this Kentucky university, hang your shoes on the Shoe Tree for a lifetime of good luck.
Murray students are nicknamed racers, because the original nickname of thoroughbreds—it’s Kentucky, after all—felt too long to the journalists writing about the teams.
Lander University
Lander University in Greenwood doesn’t have a football team but the college, which dates back to 1872, continues many traditions. On freshmen move-in day, faculty and staff turn out to help the new students move in. Sometimes even the mayor shows up. After students are settled in, they are ushered into the arena where faculty and staff line up like a greeting tunnel and cheer them on. Nursing students participate in an annual pinning ceremony and the Lighting of the Lamps of Knowledge.
The Lander community believes in creating new traditions as well, such as the holiday tree lighting.
“Lander is an old university, and we want to maintain traditions but also move into modern traditions,” says Amanda Darden, vice president for student experience and quality assurance.
College of Charleston
Students entering the College of Charleston at Porter’s Lodge pass through an arch inscribed with “Know Thyself” in Greek.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY JOSEPH HENDRICKSON, PNG STORE
ABOVE: Those who find their “sole” mates while attending Murray State University hang their shoes on a campus tree for continued good luck. PHOTO COURTESY OF MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY
Where in the Community?
Every month, MPD Electric Cooperative features a new, recognizable spot from somewhere in the Pee Dee. Check out next month’s page for the answer.
This building, known as Old Vidalia Academy, was built in 1877. With the help of farmhands, Dillon farmer Herod W. Allen built the one-room schoolhouse for the community. Fifteen children originally enrolled, paying $3.50 for the year. As the student population grew, the building moved to a nearby farm of Dr. M.F. Monroe. Within 15 years, the school population outgrew the building, and it merged with another institution. Since then, the building has been used as a Methodist meetinghouse, a sharecroppers’ residence and a chicken coop. Preservationists Cindy and A. LaFon LeGette Jr. acquired and restored the building in 1966. They donated the schoolhouse for use in a downtown Latta park on West Main Street, where it still stands behind the old post office building.
— Gene H.
Tactical Meets Practical
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Precision Takes Time
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Make Cacio e Pepe Magic
Rice and grits go Italian with a few simple tweaks
Story and photos by Libby Wiersema
Pasta, rice, grits, cornmeal, polenta—I have an entire shelf in the pantry dedicated to my favorite carbs. But it tends to shrink much too slowly, as I only indulge on Sundays. Because of my Italian heritage, pasta is usually my pick. My mother and grandmother religiously made Sunday sauce, and I do the same.
But back to the pantry. In my quest to reorganize, I emptied that carb shelf onto the counter and gasped. There were six bags of stoneground grits, six bags of rice (heirloom, basmati, jasmine, brown, wild, black, arborio), three unopened bags of cornmeal (blue, yellow, white), four packages of polenta (instant and coarseground), one bag of masa harina and 16 kinds of pasta (partial and full packages).
Do you think I need an intervention?
I have resolved not to add to my
impressive cache for a while. I also relaxed the Sunday pasta option to every other week and replaced it with some of the other carbs that have patiently waited to be noticed.
One of my favorite ways to keep Sundays Italian with alternative carbs is so simple and delicious that I wonder why I did not do it sooner. My strategy: the cacio e pepe approach. My nonna often prepared cacio e pepe as a weekday lunch or dinner for me and my sisters when we were children. The simplicity of the dish made it a no-brainer: pasta, pasta water, butter, black pepper and pecorino Romano cheese.
In recent years, cacio e pepe has become a trendy addition to some restaurant menus and a popular flavor for everything from popcorn to chips. That does not surprise me.
Despite the few ingredients and ease
of preparation, cacio e pepe tastes richly decadent. It is also highly versatile— something I discovered by applying the concept to rice, polenta and grits. If you cook pots of rice and grits on a regular basis, this can be a wonderful way to add new life to those leftovers.
The recipes on Page 13 don’t take long to go from pot to plate. These dishes will fly from plate to belly even more quickly.
If you wish to make grits or polenta cakes, add in an hour or two of chilling time.
A Word About Cheese
I want to underscore the importance of using pecorino Romano cheese for these recipes. This salty, hard cheese is largely used for grating over pasta dishes and is often referred to by the brand name “Locatelli,” though you may occasionally see other brands. It is made from the milk
Cacio e pepe grits cakes meld Southern and Italian flavors. Be sure to splurge on authentic pecorino Romano cheese.
Cacio e Pepe Grits
Stoneground polenta may be substituted. If you are using instant polenta, you will get a silkier dish. Follow package directions for preparation, then add pepper and cheese.
1 cup stoneground grits
4 cups water
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
4 ounces pecorino Romano cheese, grated
Bring water with salt to a boil, then stir in grits and butter. Reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring frequently, until grits are thick and creamy. Incorporate black pepper and cheese. Serve warm.
Cacio e Pepe Grits Cakes
With Fresh Tomato-Basil Salsa
1 recipe prepared cacio e pepe grits
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered ¼ cup sweet onion, diced
Cool the prepared cacio e pepe grits to room temperature. Divide in half. Using your hands, shape each half into a cylinder about 11/2 inches in diameter. Wrap separately in plastic, using the wrap to shape and smooth into a firm package. Place in refrigerator and thoroughly chill—about 1 to 2 hours—to congeal.
Mix the tomatoes, onion, garlic and basil in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil. Set aside.
Unwrap the grits cylinders once they are cold. They should hold their shape. If not, they need more time in the refrigerator. With a sharp knife, carefully slice each cylinder into 1/2-inch disks. Over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil in an iron skillet. Brown grits cakes, turning once. Arrange
of sheep on the island of Sardinia, though its origins harken back to Rome. Pecorino Romano is not a brand but means “sheep (cheese) of Rome.” The cost may seem a bit high as far as cheese goes, but this is my motto: Life is too short to forego the pecorino. The price per pound hovers between $17.99 and $19.99, but a
on a platter, and top with tomato-basil salsa. For a fantastic brunch, serve with ciabatta toast, fresh fruit and an egg fried in hot olive oil until edges are lacy and crispy.
Cacio e Pepe Fried Rice
2 cups cooked rice
¼ cup sweet onion, chopped
½ cup frozen green peas, thawed under running water and drained
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
½ cup grated pecorino Romano cheese
Salt, to taste
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and saute until translucent and fragrant. Add rice, and distribute evenly with a wooden spoon. Do not disturb for 2 to 3 minutes. Add peas to the rice, and cook for about 2 more minutes. Remove from heat. Gently incorporate cheese and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, adding salt if desired. Serve warm as a side dish. For a main dish, top with grilled South Carolina shrimp.
little goes a long way. Do not be tempted to buy regular Romano cheese unless you want flavorless, rubbery cacio e pepe. This is one splurge you should always spring for. You do not have to be Italian to adopt my motto.
Buon appetito! n
Libby Wiersema writes about dining, food trends and the state’s culinary history for Discover South Carolina as well as other print and online media. Contact her at libbyscarolinaspoon@gmail.com or visit the Carolina Spoon Facebook page at facebook.com/SClibby.1111.
Cacio e pepe-style grits cakes with tomato-basil salsa make a colorful side dish for brunch or dinner.
NIKON D810, 180mm lens
ISO f/7.1100, at 1/500
By Dave LaBelle
As I age, I feel a far stronger affection for little children than I did when I was young. I believe most people do.
Their beautiful, angelic little faces— usually unscarred by the hardships of life—melt us.
For me, there is something calming— even healing—watching children. I can slip into a somber or even unpleasant mood, and then I hear or watch children playing when they don’t think adults can see or hear them, and I am lifted out of myself and smile with gratitude.
I am reminded of a line from an old Tom T. Hall song, “Old Dogs and Children and Watermelon Wine,” that says, “God bless little children while they’re still too young to hate.”
Perhaps it’s because we travel through time and remember those carefree days of playing in creeks and catching frogs or riding our first pony. Maybe it’s because those beautiful, angelic little faces remind us of the fleeting days when our children
Shining Light
or grandchildren believed every story we told them.
For beginning photographers, especially students learning in photography programs, photographing children is easier and less scary than making pictures of adults. Recognizing this, I offered assignments in beginning classes built around photographing children to help shy students build confidence and not become discouraged before approaching adults.
However, as students grew confidence and ability to approach strangers, it was understood that making pictures of children at events was too easy, the low fruit of capturing storytelling pictures. They were expected to stretch their comfort zones and photograph all ages.
But lest we “throw out the baby with the bathwater,” as the old folks used to say, we should never forget or overlook the power and beauty of innocence found in the faces of children.
In an effort to capture profound pictures, we often overlook the obvious: Innocence is the greatest beauty of all.
Reader Challenge
Capture a child’s face while giving special attention to the eyes. As much as possible, fill the camera viewfinder with the face. Use a telephoto lens if you have one. Above all, be patient. Watch, become invisible, anticipate, always ready for those revealing moments. Always watch the light, the truly magical ingredient to most great photography.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing tips and life perspectives. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog, bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
I made this photograph of a young rider backstage before the rodeo event. She put another cowboy’s hat on hers while awaiting her turn to saddle up and carry a flag during opening ceremonies.
Where Does Coffee Come From?
Coffee is the liquid sunshine that gets us through Monday mornings, long meetings and late-night Netflix binges. But have you ever stopped to consider where that magical elixir comes from?
Coffee starts its journey far from South Carolina, usually at the foot of a mountain in a far-flung corner of the world before it lands in your favorite mug.
Coffee comes from a seed, but we don’t call it a seed; we call it a “coffee bean.” I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t a bean a legume?” And you’d be correct, but coffee beans are really the seeds inside the fruit of the coffee plant, which grows on a shrub.
Coffee plants thrive in the “Coffee Belt,” a global zone that straddles the equator, stretching from the Tropic of Cancer in the north to the Tropic of Capricorn in the south. Here, in the warm embrace of steady temperatures, high altitudes and sunshine, little green bushes grow with leaves so shiny they practically glow.
left to dry in the sun, and once they’re dried out, the beans are extracted from the fruit. This method often results in a fuller, fruitier flavor profile, which is why some people swear by Ethiopian coffee.
After processing the beans, they are then dried, hulled—the outer shell is removed—and graded before being sent to roasters around the world.
Now, we get to the part where the magic happens: roasting.
Green coffee beans are bland, but when they hit a roaster, they transform into the rich, aromatic, deeply satisfying brown beans we know and love.
Roasting subjects the beans to high heat, which causes them to “pop.”
Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia and Vietnam are coffee powerhouses, but nearly 70 nations grow coffee in the Coffee Belt, each with unique flavor profiles.
The first coffee beans are picked by hand, and the harvest season varies by region.
Farmers carefully pluck the ripe cherries. Yes, they’re called cherries, and no, I wouldn’t eat them like real cherries because they taste like lawn clippings, but suit yourself.
After picking, the cherries go through a process that separates the beans from the fruit. There are two main methods: wet processing and dry processing.
Wet processing involves washing the cherries, removing the outer fruit and drying the coffee beans. It’s more water-intensive but can produce a cleaner final product.
Dry processing, also called “natural processing,” is more rustic. The cherries are
As they roast, the beans undergo a chemical reaction known as the Maillard reaction, which creates the complex flavors and aromas we associate with coffee. A light roast might taste fruity and floral, while a dark roast might have deeper, more chocolatey or smoky notes.
A lot happens to a coffee bean before it reaches you. The next time you take a sip, think about that little bean’s long journey from tropical farms to your cozy kitchen counter.
Ed Salley is MPD’s IT guy. Ed not only knows a lot about technology, he knows a lot about everything. Send your question to asked@mpd. coop, and it may be featured in next month’s Ask Ed column.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY RANGIZZZ
Stitching CommunityTogether Community
Barn quilt trails highlight South Carolina history
By Jodi Helmer
BACKGROUND: With its swirling blues and dramatic pattern, this quilt square brings a sense of motion to downtown Walhalla. It anchors the corner of 200 South Catherine St.
INSET: Nestled at the scenic Table Rock Tea Co. in Pickens County, this quilt square reflects the farm’s love of nature and tradition. Visitors can sip locally grown tea while enjoying the colorful design at 118 High Hills Lane. PHOTOS COURTESY OF UPSTATE HERITAGE BARN QUILT TRAIL
Cynthia Blair often saw square blocks painted with colorful patterns mounted on barns as she drove from South Carolina to Chicago. Curious, she stopped in the arts community of Berea, Kentucky, to ask about the painted blocks and was told that the panels were called barn quilts.
Cynthia learned Kentucky is home to a barn quilt trail, and she received a brochure mapping out a route that travels past barn quilts throughout the region. It piqued her interest. She returned home to South Carolina and shared the flyer with fellow board members of the Blue Ridge Arts Council, asking, “Why don’t we do this?” And, with that, the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail began.
A Stitch in Time
Barn quilts are believed to date back more than 300 years, when European immigrants introduced them to America. The painted replicas of traditional quilt squares hung on the sides of barns and often served as route markers before there were road signs, according to American Barn Quilts.
The idea of creating modern barn quilt trails didn’t start until 2001. Ohio resident Donna Sue Groves—who is often called the Mother of the Quilt Trail—painted a barn quilt and hung it on her tobacco barn to honor her mother, an avid quilter. It was the inspiration for the first barn quilt trail in the nation. Since then, the barn quilt movement has caught on, and the colorful quilts can now be found in more than 40 states, including South Carolina.
Before launching the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail in 2010, the organizing group visited quilt trails in North Carolina, West Virginia, Tennessee and Ohio. They spent a weekend in a barn and visited Oconee County to learn how to make barn quilt blocks. The all-volunteer committee included quilters and artists of all ages and skill levels.
The group’s first quilt square was Goose on the Pond, a traditional pattern featured in the first known catalog of quilt patterns published by the Ladies Art Company in 1890. It hangs on the Walhalla Civic Auditorium.
“Every one of our barn quilts has a real quilt connected to it and a story about that quilt and the quilter, if we know who it
was,” Cynthia says. “Even if we don’t know the quilter, we can still go back and get the history of the patterns.”
A Community Patchwork
Since that class over 15 years ago, the trail has expanded to include more than 450 hand-painted quilt panels, including 290 panels hung throughout Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties. Maps with selfguided routes to explore the quilt trails give visitors and locals alike an appreciation for the region and its barn quilts.
Interest in joining the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is diverse and widespread. Some quilt blocks are displayed on public buildings to drive tourism, while others adorn private homes and farms as a tribute to a favorite quilter or local quilting heritage.
A quilt block depicting the South Carolina Star, a design that dates to 1907, hangs on the Welcome Center at the South Carolina/Georgia border. The Belton Area Museum Association chose the Carolina lily for its building in Belton. The more complex designs and color schemes are a significant evolution from their first quilt box, which Cynthia describes as “three colors and all straight lines.”
The owner of a birdseed shop in Cody County commissioned a barn quilt. His late wife was a quilter, and he wanted a replica of a quilt she created to hang in his store.
Cynthia calls it one of the most complex barn quilts volunteers have ever painted.
“It was a birdbath with bluebirds in it, but every single block in that quilt was a separate piece of fabric,” she says. “It took two years to finish that one, and it’s beautiful.”
Interest in the quilt trail continues to grow. Quilt squares hang along walking trails in downtown Pickens. The South Carolina Botanical Garden at Clemson is interested in a series of historic, flowerthemed quilt blocks for the garden. A new Black History Quilt Trail in Oconee and Pickens counties is in the works, and the latest addition to the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is a water trail.
The water trail features quilt squares on the docks, boathouses or other locations that can be viewed from Lake Keowee. There are eight barn quilts on the trail, and Cynthia hopes the trail will continue to expand on Lake Keowee and other local lakes and other historic sites across the state.
“Barn quilts give you an appreciation not only for the artistry and the craft of quilting but also the heritage of this area,” Cynthia says. “We want to celebrate the tradition of quilting and the women—and sometimes men—who made these beautiful quilts.”
For more information about the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail and maps of the trails, visit uhqt.org.
Standing tall along 1035 Anderson Highway in Easley, this design pays homage to the strength and beauty of the oak tree. Its bold pattern catches the eye of travelers as they wind their way through the countryside.
Across
Across
1 Sign in the sky for Noah (7)
Sign iu the sky for Noah (7)
5 Word before “drink” or “neck” (5)
8 Sounds like a visitor made an estimate (7)
Word before "drink or "neck" (5)
9 ____ space; UFO’s region (5)
10 Flavor that hijacked a test (5)
11 Illustration, for example (7)
12 Abundant supply (6)
14 Movie-theater fixture (6)
Sounds like a visitor made an estimate (7)
17 Output from an engine (7)
19 Derby prize (5)
22 Corrosive fluids (5)
23 Entail (7)
____ space; UFO's region (5)
24 Black billiard ball (5)
25 Chorale members (7)
Down
Flavor that hijacked a test (5)
1 Chief assistant is a dexterous chap (5)
2 Express lane tally (5)
Illustration, for example (7)
3 Most hectic (7)
4 Least narrow (6)
5 It has a stirring role (5)
6 Strong, as emotions (7)
Abundant supply (6)
7 Steve Buscemi’s job, before he became an actor (7)
12 Get ready for (7)
Movie-theater fixture (6)
13 Resounding (7)
15 A number of people traveling together. Derived from a Persian word meaning “a group of desert travelers” (7)
Output from an engine (7)
Derby prize (5) Corrosive fluids (5)
(7)
Spirituality
“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”
— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals
In a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them.
Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony.
This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of only
930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-finished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free! Don’t miss your chance to own this exclusive tribute to timeless elegance and meaningful symbolism.
Necklace Specifications:
• 2 1/2 ctw. Kyocera lab opals and DiamondAura® accents
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish.
In a large bowl, combine hash browns, butter, soup, sour cream, onion, 1½ cups cheese and pepper. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish, and top with the reserved ½ cup of cheese. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LILECHKA75
Crustless Quiche Casserole
12 large eggs
1⁄3 cup milk
2 tablespoons sour cream
½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
Dash of pepper
Heat oven to 350 F.
2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
¼ cup bacon bits
Spinach and/or mushrooms, sauteed and lightly salted
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
1 can crescent rolls
Spray a 9-by-13-inch pan with cooking spray. Set aside. In a medium-size mixing bowl, add eggs, milk, sour cream, cheese, salt and pepper. Whisk together until mixed well.
Add green onions, bacon and any sauteed veggies. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into the greased pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center springs back when touched.
Bacon, Sweet Potato and Egg Casserole
1 pound bacon, cut into ½-inch strips
1 yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, seeds removed, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 large eggs
1 cup milk
3 cups fresh or frozen diced sweet potatoes
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, chopped
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Remove bacon, and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Roughly chop the bacon. Set aside. Add the onion and red pepper to the skillet. Cook over medium heat until tender. Add the garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Whisk in the milk. Stir in the cooked vegetables, potatoes and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Set ¾ cup of bacon aside, and stir in the rest. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and green onions. Bake for 20 minutes. Evenly distribute the remaining bacon on the top of the casserole.
Bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes or until the eggs are firm and the top is slightly golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes. Cut into squares, and serve warm.
Note: This casserole can be prepared in advance. Pour the mixture in the pan, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to eat.
1 pound mild breakfast sausage
6 extra-large eggs, beaten
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 block cream cheese, cut into small cubes
2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheese
Spray a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Brown sausage in skillet, draining excess grease.
Spread crescent rolls in the bottom of the dish. Top with sausage. Pour eggs over sausage. Spread cream cheese cubes evenly, and top with shredded cheese. Bake for 30 minutes.
Note: You can prepare everything the night before. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake the next morning.
Overnight Blueberry French Toast Casserole
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract, divided
2 cups blueberries, divided
2 loaves French bread, cubed
2 cups milk
8 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Mix cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup blueberries.
Cover the bottom of a 10-by-14-inch baking dish with a layer of bread cubes. Spread cream cheese mixture over bread layer. Top with remaining bread cubes.
Whisk milk, eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large bowl. Pour over bread mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup blueberries over bread-egg mixture. Tightly cover dish with aluminum foil. Refrigerate 8 hours to overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 to 60 minutes before baking.
Heat the oven to 375 F. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, and continue baking until the center is set, about 30 minutes.
Do
What’s O l D ~ ~
By Judy Garrison
An adage widely attributed to 18th century English writer Jonathan Swift proclaims, “everything old is new again.” That old statement is true again in the 21st century when reusing, recycling and renovating all renews the joy of old things.
Whether filling your closet with coastal grandmother fashion, choosing home decor from the local antique shop or opting for travel that’s filled with a slice of Americana, what once was is back.
is N Again e w ~ ~
The mom-and-pop motel industry boomed in the 1960s with road trip travelers always on the lookout for a neon vacancy sign. Simple and basic, these motels provided the necessities for a one- or two-night stay at an affordable rate.
By the 1980s, chain hotels, garnished with buffets and predictability—a must for success, according to Holiday Inn’s creator Kemmons Wilson—were all the rage, snuffing out smaller establishments, leaving many abandoned. By 2012, only about 16,000 motels remained nationwide.
But never underestimate nostalgia powered by an investor.
If any positive came from the COVID-19 pandemic, it would be the acceleration of the motel renaissance. Never losing the desire to hit the road, travelers opted for smaller lodging options, doors that opened to the outside—eliminating lobby and hallway traffic—shorter trips that required less planning and anything that wasn’t a cookie-cutter experience.
Motels fit the bill.
Owners refreshing these motels are counting on a visceral
The Greene’s Motel in Boone, North Carolina, was built in 1958 and thrived in the 1960s. The motel was later renamed to Rhodes Motor Lodge. PHOTO COURTESY LODEN HOSPITALITY
Rhodes Motor Lodge
Boone, North Carolina
VACANCY
reaction from travelers to continue bookings. Tossing millions into renovations, choosing simplicity in decor while adding modern amenities and transforming neglected eyesores into community icons, motels are making a comeback.
Here are some of the most impressive vintage-inspired motels in the Carolinas.
In the High County of North Carolina, Rhodes Motor Lodge is perched on a hillside location with a view of bustling Boone.
Built in 1958 as Greene’s Motel, this property thrived until the mid-1970s when it was sold, soon falling into disrepair. Years later, Loden Hospitality bought the property with a new vision.
During renovation, contractors uncovered the original cantilevered roof, sections of broken-tile terrazzo floor and block glass windows, all of which were restored to add a vintage feel. Everyone involved worked closely to determine which parts of the original structure could be saved, creating a cross between a midcentury motor court and a rustic lodge.
The 54-room, 21st-century motel is taking reservations from travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind boutique experience.
Named for the rhododendrons that bloom each spring, the lodge features rooms with luxury linens, tree-trunk nightstands and a Coleman cooler ice bucket. The on-site restaurant, Canteen, serves dinner daily and breakfast on weekends. Enjoy the outdoor firepits and Adirondack chairs on a cool fall evening or gather around the lobby fireplace with a craft cocktail.
For booking information, visit rhodesmotorlodge.com.
mixing the old with new.
Built as The Lord Carteret Motel of the 1950s, City Loft Hotel began its transformation in 2007. Owner Matt McAlhaney’s renovations included adding European features like handcrafted mahogany beds and sliding doors leading into the bathrooms that include soaking tubs, catering to the 21st-century traveler.
Open exterior corridors, open-air stairwells, convenient check-in and a coffee shop on-site make it one of the best-loved destinations in the city.
For booking, visit citylofthotel.com.
Skyline Lodge
Highlands, North Carolina
Sitting at an elevation of 3,700 feet, the Skyline Lodge dates to the 1930s, when it catered to a wealthy clientele that survived the 1929 stock market crash.
The motel’s stone, wood and hand-cut cedar shakes were touches evocative of Frank Lloyd Wright, who was a friend of the commissioned designer. The lodge closed in 1938. In the 1950s it was rescued from disrepair.
Today, a full renovation allows Wright’s inspirations to shine, including his signature twist that incorporates the outdoors as a major element of the indoor spaces. Enjoy The Wright Suite, which features scenic views of mountain ranges from two balconies.
Enjoy your local mountain adventure and then come back to the best seat in the Highlands.
For booking information, visit skyline-lodge.com.
The Longleaf Hotel
Raleigh, North Carolina
City
Loft Hotel
Beaufort, South Carolina
Located in the heart of historic downtown Beaufort, City Loft Hotel is a 22-room boutique hotel
Named for the longleaf pine, The Longleaf Hotel was originally a Travelodge in the 1960s. Now a stay at the hotel includes luxury bedding and a fully stocked fridge. An espresso bar in the lobby serves local Yellow Dog Bakery pastries and Counter Culture brews daily.
It offers mid-century coziness with attention to detail.
From a standard room to a king, each guest room is designed for the traveler. Plus, there are discounts for educators and visitors to area colleges. The lounge, open daily, serves world-class wines and classic cocktails. Popular with locals and visitors, the lounge or patio area is ideal to cap off the day.
Described on its website as an “unpretentious atmosphere that
VACANCY
is just a little bit swanky,” its nostalgic, yet modern, tone offers the ultimate relaxation.
For more information and booking, visit thelongleafhotel.com.
The Starlight Motor Inn
Charleston, South Carolina
If ever a first glimpse transports you back in time, it is inside the lobby of The Starlight Motor Inn in historic North Charleston.
Built in 1961, The Host of America was affordable and accessible. Locally and privately owned, the motel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020 and underwent full restoration and renovation in 2022.
The 51 rooms are vintage inspired with modern conveniences.
The Burgundy Lounge has been a favorite for locals and storytellers since 1966. The bar provides local spirits and old-school classics and is open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday.
Longing for a dip in the pool? Purchase a day pass and see what the fuss is all about.
For more information and booking, visit starlightchs.com.
Unscripted
Durham, North Carolina
By design, you can’t miss Unscripted. Its bright blue exterior brings the energy to this downtown Durham location.
It began its life as Jack Tar Motor Lodge in the 1960s. Today, the vibe is urban while holding on to its mid-century modern flair, with inviting architecture.
Inside you’ll find 74 guestrooms, five food venues, and a rooftop pool deck and lounge that many consider its shining star. It is the first Unscripted Hotel built in the United States from the Dream Hotel Group, targeting the progressive and creative traveler.
For more information, visit unscriptedhotels.com.
Route 19 Inn
Maggie Valley, North Carolina
Once the Rocky Waters Motel, the inn opened in 1948 when road trip travel boomed along Route 19 through the Carolina mountains.
Today, the Route 19 Inn offers 30 rooms of classic motor lodge style. Totally renovated by a team of imagineers, Route 19 Inn delivers guests into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The hotel offers queen and king rooms as well as cabins. Each
room provides a bathroom with colorful mid-century ceramic tile. Look for the full-size teepee out front.
For booking, visit route19inn.com.
Holiday Shores Myrtle Beach,
South Carolina
Away from the mountains and right on the coast, find the vintage-inspired seaside accommodations of Holiday Shores. Highlighting the retro vibe with modern amenities, enjoy the kitchenettes or the outdoor pool. There’s even a kiddie pool.
From king and queen rooms to a beach cottage for eight, allow the brilliant colors to put you on island time.
For more information, visit holidayshoresmyrtlebeach.com.
ABOVE: Everyone involved in the renovation of Rhodes Motor Lodge worked closely to determine which parts of the original structure could be saved, creating a cross between a mid-century motor court and a rustic lodge. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEEING SOUTHERN
OPPOSITE PAGE: Vintage neon signs, like the one at New South Motor Inn in Georgia, will never disappear from the motel renaissance.
PHOTO BY BLAKE GUTHRIE
Fun Festivals&
SEPT. 11
Lake City Concert Series
Seraph Brass will perform at The Bean Market with a 6 p.m. reception before the 7 p.m. performance.
THE BEAN MARKET
111 Henry St., Lake City
SEPT. 12-21
Florence Little Theatre Presents ‘Sister Act’
See this musical crime comedy on stage. For tickets, visit www. orencelittletheatre.org.
FLORENCE LITTLE THEATRE
417 S. Dargan St., Florence
SEPT. 13
Run 4 Brighter Days
The 14th annual Run 4 Brighter Days raises awareness about Teen Suicide Prevention. Whether you run or walk, join us from 7:45-11 a.m. Register at runsignup.com.
LYNCHES RIVER COUNTY PARK
5094 County Park Road, Coward
SEPT. 13
Power Comicon
Comics, toys, statues, art, costume apparel and pop culture memorabilia for all ages abounds from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a cosplay contest with cash and prizes.
FLORENCE CENTER
3300 W. Radio Drive, Florence
SEPT. 1920
Florence Food Truck Festival
SEPT. 14
Second Sunday Tours: Pee Dee History Gallery
Join the Florence County Museum at 2:15 p.m. for a free tour of the Pee Dee History Gallery. Registration is required at www. ocomuseum.org.
The Pee Dee History Gallery includes Civil War artifacts, artifacts related to the life and career of former FBI agent Melvin Purvis, and fragments of the MK-6 atomic bomb accidentally dropped on the Mars Blu community in 1958.
FLORENCE COUNTY MUSEUM
111 W. Cheves St., Florence
SEPT. 19-20
Florence Food Truck Festival
Beginning at 11:30 a.m., this event is for all the foodies in your life. Make sure to stop by for a weekend of amazing food, live entertainment and good vibes. The festival is pet-friendly, so don’t forget Fido when planning your day out. Visit the event’s Facebook page to see a list of the vendors so you can plan your day.
FLORENCE CENTER
3300 W. Radio Drive, Florence
SEPT. 20
Happy Little Tri & Fun Run
The Happy Little Tri combines yoga, a 5K run/walk and painting into one event. Start the day at 8 a.m. with a grounding yoga session to stretch and reset, followed by an energizing 5K through the heart of downtown Hartsville. After crossing the nish line, cool down with a relaxed guided painting session where creativity will shine. Register at blackcreekarts.org.
BURRY PARK
131 Cargill Way, Hartsville
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY JACOB LUND
SEPT. 20
Crossroads Music & Market
With a lineup of live music acts, a vendor market lled with unique treasures, mouthwatering delights from local food trucks and dance performances that will get you moving, there’s something for everyone. The day starts at 9 a.m. and lasts until 8:30 p.m. Children’s activities will keep the little ones entertained all day long.
VILLAGE GREEN
111 Henry St., Lake City
SEPT. 26
Find the Loyalist Mystery Dinner
Join in on a mystery dinner at 6 p.m. to learn about the Revolutionary War, depict a local legend and solve the mystery of the Loyalist spy. Tickets are $30 each. For more information, contact the Marion Chamber of Commerce. Another performance will be in November at The Auctioneer in Mullins.
ST. JAMES
LEARNING CENTER
5333 S. Highway 41, Marion
SEPT. 13
Run 4 Brighter Days
SEPT. 20
Crossroads Music & Market
SEPT. 27
Game On! and Craft Fair
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., video games and creative crafts will collide. The Palmetto Mobile Arcade is the special guest, with a fantastic mix of classic retro games and modern favorites. When you’re ready for a break from the screen, unleash your inner artist at their video game craft stations.
DARLINGTON
COUNTY LIBRARY
204 N. Main St., Darlington
OCT. 4
Fall Plant Sale
With a curated selection of annuals and perennials, you’re bound to nd the perfect additions for your garden from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The gardens will be open for free during the event.
MOORE FARMS
BOTANICAL GARDEN
100 New Zion Road, Lake City
events@marlboro.coop
OCT. 4
Pee Dee Heart Walk
Join the Pee Dee Heart Walk from 9 a.m. to noon to help fund lifesaving research to eliminate heart disease and stroke. For more information. visit www2.heart.org.
FMU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
201 S. Dargan St., Florence
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY TAKE PRODUCTION
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY VALERIE
By Robin Howard
Learn to give an unforgettable speech SpeakingPublic101
Whether you’re pitching an idea at work or giving a wedding toast, being an engaging and effective public speaker helps you connect and make things happen. The art of the unforgettable speech lies in preparation, powerful storytelling and authentic delivery. Whether addressing a small gathering or an auditorium, certain elements can make ordinary remarks memorable.
Start With a Strong Opening
The first 30 seconds of a speech are pivotal. Start with a provocative question, a startling statistic, a personal anecdote or a powerful quote that immediately captures attention. Avoid generic openings like, “Today I’m going to talk about...” Instead, put your audience directly into the action.
For instance, rather than announcing your speech is about climate change, begin with, “Last summer, I watched my childhood home burn in California’s worst wildfire season.”
Know Your Audience
You need to know who you’re talking to. Research your audience’s demographics, interests, concerns and expectations. That way, you can tailor your message, choose meaningful examples and connect with
your audience emotionally.
Also, consider the audience’s level of expertise with your topic and adjust your language and technical details so everyone is included.
Build Around a Core
Every memorable speech revolves around one central idea. Think about distilling your core message into a single sentence that could fit on a bumper sticker. All your stories, examples and arguments should support this central theme.
For example, Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech wove multiple stories and arguments around the central theme of racial equality and justice.
Give a Clear Narrative
Organize your speech artfully using the classic framework, “Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you told them.” Create a clear story arc with a beginning, middle and end. Use transitions that flow naturally and help your audience follow your logic. Think of your speech as a journey, taking listeners from Point A to Point B in the most compelling way possible.
Use the Power of Three
The human mind naturally responds to patterns, particularly threes. Use this principle in your structure, examples and key points. Steve Jobs famously introduced the original iPhone as “three revolutionary products: a widescreen iPod with touch
controls, a revolutionary mobile phone and a breakthrough internet communications device.”
Tell a Story
Stories connect people. Include personal anecdotes, case studies or historical examples to illustrate your points. Ensure your stories are relevant to your message and include specific details that make them vivid and relatable. Use words to paint pictures that allow your audience to see, feel and experience your narrative.
Use Concrete Language
Replace abstract concepts with specific, tangible examples. Instead of discussing environmental degradation, describe the last polar bear swimming through ice-free, Arctic waters. Use metaphors and analogies that make complex ideas accessible and memorable. When Warren Buffett explains market volatility, he doesn’t use technical terms. He talks about “Mr. Market” as a moody neighbor who offers to buy and sell stocks at different prices daily.
Incorporate Rhythm
Employ repetition, contrast and rhythm to make your words more memorable. Consider Barack Obama’s use of anaphora—the repetition of beginning phrases—in his “Yes We Can” speech or Winston Churchill’s powerful use of contrast in “We Shall Fight on the Beaches.” These devices create rhythm and emphasize key points.
Pause Strategically
Silence is a powerful tool. Strategic pauses allow important points to sink in, create dramatic tension and give your audience time to process emotional moments. They also help you appear more confident and in control.
Give a Strong Call to Action
End your speech by clearly stating what you want your audience to do, think or feel. Make your call to action specific, achievable and memorable. Rather than vaguely encouraging environmental consciousness, ask your audience to commit to three specific actions they can take within the next week.
Master Your Delivery
Your physical presence and vocal delivery significantly affect the strength of your speech. Practice maintaining strong eye contact, using purposeful gestures and varying your vocal pace and tone. Record yourself practicing and analyze your performance critically. Pay attention to your posture, movement and energy level. You’ll likely have to act more confident than you feel, but that’s an integral part of public speaking.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Build flexibility into your speech to handle interruptions, technical difficulties or time constraints. Know which parts of your speech you can expand or contract if something comes up. Prepare responses to potentially challenging questions or objections. Your ability to handle unexpected situations gracefully can make your speech even more memorable.
Connect Emotionally
While facts and logic are important, emotions drive memorable experiences. Share authentic moments of vulnerability, joy or conviction. Let your passion for your topic shine through naturally. When your emotional connection to your message is genuine, it becomes contagious.
Open and Close Strong
Bookend your speech by giving a powerful closing statement that relates to your opening statement. This creates a sense of completion and help your audience remember your message.
Remember the Power of Simplicity
Don’t overcomplicate your message or include too much information. The most memorable speeches often convey profound ideas through simple, straightforward language. As Einstein
said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”
Practice, Practice, Practice
Rehearse your speech multiple times in conditions similar to your presentation. Practice in front of mirrors, friends or video cameras. Know your material well enough that you can deliver it naturally without being tied to notes. This familiarity lets you focus on connecting with your audience rather than remembering your next point.
Creating an authentic connection with your audience is the key to an unforgettable speech. When you combine careful preparation with genuine passion and presence, you create moments that resonate long after the final words are spoken. The greatest speeches in history moved people not just because of what was said but because of the authentic truth and conviction behind the words.
Don’t Toss it
Egg-cellent uses for egg cartons
We all know eggs are a breakfast staple, but what happens to the cartons they come in? If you’re like most people, you probably toss them without a second thought.
But here’s the thing, those little trays are full of potential.
From garden hacks, children’s crafts and clever home uses, egg cartons are one of the easiest items to upcycle. So, let’s crack the code and uncover all the ways to give egg cartons a second life.
Start your garden from scratch. Fall is arriving, and it’s the perfect time to plant collards, kale and carrots.
Use a paper egg carton as a biodegradable seed starter. Fill each cup with soil, drop in your seeds and mist lightly with water. When your seedlings sprout, you can cut apart the cups and plant them directly into your garden or raised bed. The paper breaks down naturally in the sandy soil, giving roots room to stretch.
Create rainy day crafts for children. Stuck inside on a rainy day? Keep children busy by turning cartons into paint trays, sorting stations or as the base for creative critters.
Let the children glue pipe cleaners, googly eyes, or buttons to turn carton cups into caterpillars, bumblebees or other cute crafts for hands-on fun.
Compost it. If you’re using paper cartons, they are a perfect “brown” addition to your compost bin. Tear them up and mix them with greens such as kitchen scraps or grass clippings. They help absorb moisture and add carbon. Make a DIY bird feeder. Cut off the
lid and string each corner with twine, then fill the base with bird seed. Hang it on your porch or a tree to attract blue jays, cardinals and other birds. This is a great nature project for children that doubles as backyard entertainment. Use them as fire starters. Heading out to a campsite or preparing for a bonfire? Egg cartons make excellent fire starters. Fill each cup with dryer lint or sawdust, then pour melted candle wax over the top. Once hardened, break apart the cups and store them until later use.
Use them for organization. If you have a growing collection of buttons, beads, rings or earrings, egg cartons offer little compartments for organizing your treasures. You could decorate the carton by painting it or lining the cups with felt. Use as a gift box. Hosting a shower or handing out party favors? Decorate an egg carton and fill the cups with baked goods, candies, mini soaps or another small gift. Tie it with ribbon and add a tag for instant handcrafted charm.
Cartons come in handy for educational games. Use cartons to teach numbers, letters or colors. Label each cup with a number and have children drop the right number of beans inside or match colors with pom poms.
Make soap molds out of egg cartons. Pour homemade soap into carton cups for cute mini round bars, great for craft booths or handmade gifts. Let them cure, pop them out and wrap them up however you like.
Perfect for holiday ornament holders. Use cartons to safely store small ornaments or other small
Christmas trinkets between seasons.
Use as a deviled egg carrier for picnics. Repurpose for transporting deviled eggs to picnics or potlucks.
A portable paint palette. For DIYers or artists, each cup can hold a different paint color.
In true southern style, it’s all about making the most of what you have, along with a little creativity and a dash of purpose. So, before you toss that carton, take a second look. You might be holding on to the start of your next craft, garden or organizing win.
Brandi Faulk and her family are excited to share their homesteading journey with MPD Electric members. Their home, built in 1895, is a former railway hotel and farmhouse in Chesterfield County. Search “faulkfamilyfarmhouse” to see more photos of their experiences on Instagram.
Egg cartons are full of potential and can help keep your children busy with activities on a
BY BRANDI FAULK
rainy day at home. PHOTO
Uncle Scott’s Root Beer, $2
Uncle Scott’s Root Beer isn’t just another soft drink. It’s an American tradition. Authentic, flavorful and better for you, it’s everything root beer should be without all the things it shouldn’t. Uncle Scott’s Root Beer is made in North Carolina the oldfashioned way—with herbs, spices and pure cane sugar.
On first sip, Uncle Scott’s Root Beer delivers a rich creaminess layered with hints of vanilla, cherry, caramel and herbal notes of licorice, accompanied by a gentle fizz. Unlike conventional brands, this root beer embraces depth and complexity. An earthy, slightly spiced finish rounds out the flavor, evoking the traditional brewing methods of early American root beers. It’s the kind of drink that invites you to slow down and savor. Whether enjoying it in a bottle, poured over ice or in a root beer float, this classic soda deserves a spot in your fridge. Grab a bottle at Ramsey Farm’s Produce Stand in Mooresville, North Carolina; online at Yay Soda; or at retailers such as KJ’s, Food Lion and NC Provision Co. unclescottsrootbeer.com
Dino Bars, $24 (10 per box)
Snack time just went prehistoric on John’s Island. In a market saturated with heavily processed snacks, Dino Bars stomps into the scene with big flavor, clean ingredients and zero junk.
Wrapped in fun, colorful, dinosaurthemed packaging and boasting whole food ingredients, these organic fruit bars are a great choice for health-conscious parents who want convenience without compromise.
Dino Bars founders Jessica and Ian Saultz were on a mission to help their children snack smarter when they started their company. Dino Bars are proof that healthy doesn’t have to be boring. Each bar is made with fewer than 10 ingredients, with organic fruits, gluten-free oats, coconut oil for healthy
fats and hemp hearts for extra plant protein.
However, the best part is that the wrapper is part of the snack.
The bars come wrapped in edible rice paper that keeps them intact while keeping hands clean and eliminating waste. No peeling, no mess and no trash. This makes them perfect for travel, trips to the park, lunchboxes and as emergency snacks you can keep in a bag.
These tasty treats come in a variety of dino-mite flavors, including strawberry, blueberry, sweet potato raspberry, mango, cherry beet and pineapple carrot. Even your pickiest eaters are sure to love chomping into a Dino Bar.
dinobars.com
Beauty Lip2Cheek, $40
For color that compliments you, RMS Beauty’s signature jars are worthy of a place in your everyday makeup routine. Lauded for its clean ingredients, skin-loving formula and natural flush, Lip2Cheek is the perfect multitasker.
Once a runway favorite, now a clean beauty staple, this one-pot wonder has built a loyal following and continues to pop up on editor must-have lists and in makeup artist kits more than 30 years later.
Despite its size, each little glass pot packs a punch. Compact enough to slip into a purse or travel kit, it holds enough product to last several months of daily use. Simply tap your finger in the pot, dab onto the apples of your cheeks, blend and you are done.
On the lips, it swipes on like a hydrating stain, leaving behind a soft, satin finish that is never dry or chalky. It’s travel-friendly and surprisingly luxe. With a range of eight flattering hues that adapt beautifully
to your skin tone, each shade is buildable, blendable and formulated with natural pigments which are all curated by makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift and her clean beauty team out of Charleston.
If you need assistance picking the right shade, simply take the meet your match quiz online, book a video consultation or message one of the RMS beauty experts for personalized product recommendations.
rmsbeauty.com
Better inBARDSTOWN
Get away for the weekend in bourbon country
By Judy Garrison
The Bluegrass State’s heart beats loudly in Bardstown. Known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, this small Kentucky town oozes historic charm sprinkled with a heaping helping of Southern hospitality for all who come to this neck of the woods.
In Bardstown, rickhouses—traditionally sevento nine-story wooden structures where thousands of barrels of bourbon age and breathe—hold more barrels than the town has people. With more than 11.4 million barrels aging in Bardstown, the world won’t be without bourbon anytime soon.
Visitors come to Bardstown from all over the world in search of their pick of bourbon, but they leave with a collection of diverse experiences.
First, There’s Bourbon
There are 11 bourbon distilleries within 16 miles of the Bardstown downtown square. Bourbon’s rich history began with Baptist minister Elijah Craig who, in 1789, developed an elixir that exalted the evening cocktail. Bourbon from Bardstown finds its way into every element of life. From dining to entertainment to shopping, bourbon-inspired collections pop up at all distilleries and most shops throughout the city. Every distillery has a story, and the passionate locals
Thousands of barrels are stored in Bardstown rickhouses. PHOTOS BY LEN GARRISON, SEEING SOUTHERN
are ready to share it. The list is impressive: Bardstown Bourbon Co., Barton 1792 Distillery, Heaven Hill Distillery, James B. Beam Distilling Co., Lux Row Distillers, Log Still Distillery, Four Roses Bourbon, Maker’s Mark, Preservation Distillery, Old Steelhouse Distillery and Willet.
From tours and tastings, history comes to life as visitors walk each campus, open the door to the rickhouses, browse the shops, sip the bourbon and, for many, dine in local restaurants and savor signature dishes and cocktails.
September offers the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, when history and spirits take over for an entire week. Surrounding communities join Bardstown in promoting the distillers, as well as other bourbon attractions, such as the Blind Pig Bourbon market and the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.
The elite Bardstown Collection was released in the spring, marking the second year competing distilleries joined forces to create a one-of-a-kind bourbon series with all proceeds flowing back into the community. The 2024 collection is now available on-site.
bourbons from 10, 11 and 12 millionth milestone barrels that have been left untouched for years until we found an opportunity worthy of using them,” says Freddie Noe, eighth-generation master distiller at James B. Beam Distillery. “The result is a well-balanced and intricate bourbon.”
If bourbon is not your thing, allow the regional experiences and historical adventures to define the city.
which inspired songwriter Stephen Foster to pen his iconic song. There’s also a Broadway-style performance of “The Stephen Foster Story.”
The Old Bardstown Colonial Village and Park re-creates a 1790s village that tells the story of the early western movement. Don’t miss the 1819 Old County Jail. The Women’s Museum of the 1800s and Civil War Period enlightens visitors on the role of women as nurses, spies and soldiers.
From dining to entertainment to shopping, bourbon-inspired collections pop up at all distilleries and most shops throughout the city.
But Wait, There’s More
Steeped in history, Bardstown is Kentucky’s second-oldest city.
The collection is considered a collector’s item in the bourbon world, one that will never be replicated. For more information on the collection, visit bardstowncollection.com.
“This year, our limited-edition features
Visitors may take a ride through historic downtown in a horse-drawn carriage for a slow-paced experience and an overview of the city. Then, they can grab a coffee and take a walk on a self-guided tour to revisit some of the locations introduced during the carriage ride.
In the neighboring community of Trappist, the Abbey of Gethsemani was founded in 1848 by the Order of Trappist Cistercians. The abbey opens its doors to visitors who want to learn about monastery life. The abbey is the ideal introduction to the family story of Log Still Distillery. Dining in Bardstown can be as exciting as walking into in walking
Next, celebrate 170 years of the state song, “My Old Kentucky Home,” at My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Tour the restored Federal Hill mansion,
LEFT: Preservation is the youngest distillery, making bourbon and whiskey in tiny batches.
Jim Beam’s white barn is iconic.
a distillery. Step into the Flemish bond stonework Talbott Tavern and Inn, built in 1779 and considered the oldest Western stagecoach stop in America. It welcomed Daniel Boone, Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln as guests. Venture up the staircase to the room where the outlaw Jesse James left his bullets in the wall.
From its rough beginnings to an ideal evening dinner destination, Talbott Tavern showcases centuries of activity within its stone walls.
As with many local venues, the tavern connects to its bourbon and historical heritage. The chef pays homage to past guests with the Daniel Boone Pot Roast and Lincoln’s Bourbon BBQ Ribs. Save room for bread pudding with bourbon sauce. Stay for a nightcap at Bourbon Bar, the world’s oldest bourbon bar.
Toogie’s Table serves its take on modern American classics with regional flair. Its revolving seasonal menu produces
house-made pasta plus the Hog Chop.
Next door to the Table, Bardstown Motor Lodge is a renovated retro lodge that awakens memories of iconic summer seasons and nostalgic road trips.
After a James B. Beam Distillery tour in Clermont, head to The Kitchen Table on the Beam campus. Inspired by the original Beam family kitchen table, it is a setting for storytelling, whiskey sampling and good eating. Burned into the wood of each table is the mantra: “Some families want a fancier kitchen. All we want is a bigger table.”
The Kentucky bourbon influence fills the menu with items like Kentucky Burgoo and wood-fired pizzas.
With multiple lodging options within driving distance of the distilleries and downtown, The Mansion at Dant Crossing elevates the weekend to luxury.
This fully restored Georgian-style home built in 1840 sits centerstage on rolling hills and farmland, where the sunrises are
exquisite. When breakfast is delivered to the back door, the thought of never leaving is sure to cross one’s mind.
Dant Crossing offers other Airbnb rental options, as well as experiences without leaving the Beam campus. At The Amp, artists like Martina McBride, Lady A and Colt Ford take the stage just outside the front door. n
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Dining at Bardstown Bourbon Co. is a top-notch experience. Preservation is the first craft bourbon operation in Nelson County. Don’t miss the history room at Bardstown Bourbon Co. to view some of the oldest whiskey bottles. History greets visitors at Heaven Hill Distillery. Inside The Mansion at Dant Crossing, the family shares their inspiration of faith and family. Chef David Danielson of Dant Crossing curates culinary experiences for guests.
Plan Your Trip
Visit Bardstown has every detail in place for your fun Kentucky visit. From a Visitor’s Guide to full itinerary planning—all available online—the tourism bureau has the corners covered. Go to visitbardstown.com to get the party started.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY EVERYDAYSTUDIOART
Three Days in Blue Ridge
By Cheré Coen
When temperatures drop in the South, thoughts turn to fall. One of the best places to witness the changing of the leaves is Blue Ridge, where the mountain trees turn shades of ochre, yellow and red.
It’s also time for festivals, such as the Blues & BBQ Festival and Fall Arts in the Park. It all adds up to an ideal time for a mountain getaway.
Wineries
Trees aren’t the only plants that change color in fall. So do grapevines, from a variety of yellows to a fiery red. This change signals harvest time.
Blue Ridge is home to several wineries with indoor and outdoor seating, the latter perfect for enjoying fall weather and colors.
Serenberry Vineyards offers a quaint tasting room with an expansive patio nestled among its vineyard. Sip their vintages beside an outdoor fireplace or relax on the greens.
A large, covered outdoor seating area stretches behind Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery’s tasting room, so visitors may buy a glass or bottle to enjoy.
Both wineries offer special events, such as live music. In nearby Ellijay, regional wines are highlighted at the Blue Ridge
Wine & Jazz Festival on Sept. 7.
Mercier Orchards grows a variety of fruit, including its famous apples, so it’s natural for the company to create wine from its harvests. Mercier also has the distinction of creating Georgia’s first hard apple cider from farm-grown apples. Sample its wines and cider at its store and tasting room a short drive from downtown Blue Ridge.
For more information, visit blueridgemountains.com/food-drink/ breweries-wineries, serenberryvineyards.com and blueridgewineandjazz.com.
Breweries
Breweries abound in Blue Ridge. So, if you love hops, you’re in for a real treat.
The first has a funny name and a funnier story: Two home beer enthusiasts were arguing over brewing, and one of their wives called them grumpy old men. It seemed like the perfect name for a microbrewery. Grumpy Old Men Brewing opened its taproom in 2013 and lies just south of town on Main Street.
The unique names continue with Angry Hops Brewery, which pours its craft beers inside and out—again, a great place to savor the fall weather.
Tipping Point Brewing Co. serves its craft beers across from the railroad depot at a second-floor location that includes a
porch where visitors may watch downtown action below.
For something unique, Copperhill Brewery in Copperhill sits a few steps over the Tennessee state line from the neighboring town of McCaysville, Georgia. Inside the tasting room, visitors may literally cross the state line—it runs through the floor.
For more details, visit blueridgemountains. com/blog/blue-ridge-breweries.
Take a Hike
Downtown Blue Ridge offers much in the way of shopping, art galleries and dining, but those who cherish the solitude of nature are sure to love what the mountains surrounding the town offer.
There are 300 miles of hiking trails in and around Blue Ridge, including access to the Appalachian Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail, named for the visionary who first proposed the Appalachian Trail.
For something more tuned to a weekend getaway, there are some easy to moderate hikes with a spectacular end result.
It’s a long drive and a 1-mile hike through a rich forest to the Swinging Bridge over the Toccoa River. Georgia Appalachian Trail Club and the U.S. Forest Service built the 270-foot swinging bridge
to service part of the Benton MacKaye Trail. There are places to rest and picnic on both sides of the raging river, but don’t miss the mid-bridge selfie opportunity.
It’s 2 miles and a fairly easy hike to reach Long Creek Falls, with its dramatic 50-foot cascade of water. Along the way, hikers may enjoy wildflowers, ferns and fall colors.
Find hiking information, directions and more at blueridgemountains.com/things-to-do/ outdoors/hiking.
Get Picking
Fall also means apple-picking season. The north Georgia mountains grow a variety of apples, and Mercier Orchards is the largest apple orchard in the Southeast. There are more than 40 varieties of apples to pick.
The apple-picking season usually falls between late August and November, but it depends on the whims of nature, so check Mercier’s website for updates. Be sure to stop in the store for hot, fried apple pies. Visit blueridgemountains.com/directory/ mercier-orchards.
Festivals
The smells of barbecue and the sounds of live music take over downtown Blue Ridge on Saturday, Sept. 20, for the 14th annual Blues & BBQ Festival. Music
runs continuously from noon to 9 p.m. as regional vendors sell their barbecue specialties. It costs $20 to join the fun— children younger than 12 are free—with a portion of the net proceeds benefiting local nonprofits.
Great food, arts and crafts, and live music make up Fall Arts in the Park on Saturday, Oct. 11, and Sunday, Oct. 12, at Blue Ridge City Park. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The cost is $5. Children younger than 12 are free.
To learn more about the upcoming festivals, visit blueridgemountains.com/events.
Relax and Unwind
Like the great outdoors surrounding Blue Ridge, there’s so much to choose from when it comes to accommodations. Travelers can find treehouses, rustic and luxury cabins, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and campsites in Blue Ridge and the surrounding area.
If a weekend away means restoring mind and body, Blue Ridge offers spas, yoga classes and assorted experiences, such as the decadent salt cave at Serenity in the Mountains. Both Serenity and Willow Creek Falls offer accommodations in addition to spa services.
Choose your ideal getaway at blueridgemountains.com/where-to-stay. n
Find more than 40 varieties of apples to pick this fall at Mercier Orchards. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY HANSENN Relax and rejuvenate at Serenity in the Mountains. PHOTO COURTESY OF SERENITY IN THE MOUNTAINS
FROM TOP: The Swinging Bridge suspends over the Toccoa River. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY SANTUCI PHOTOGRAPHY
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY INTOTHESTAR
Currents
A PUBLICATION OF MPD ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE SEPTEMBER 2025
OFFICIAL NOTICE TO MEMBERS 2025 ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting of the Members of MPD Electric Cooperative, Incorporated will be held Saturday, October 4, 2025, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by the business meeting at noon. The meeting will be held at the Darlington Raceway at 1301 Harry Byrd Highway, Darlington, SC 29532.
There will be two separate early registration days. The first will be held Wednesday, October 1 at MPD Electric’s Bennettsville office at 676 Highway 9 East in Bennettsville from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The second day for early registration will be Friday, October 3, at the Darlington Raceway from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Those members who participate in the early registration on Wednesday or Friday do not need to register on Saturday. Registered members are eligible to win various prizes, including the grand prize, a 2025 Evolution Golf Cart, or $10,000 cash. This year, the election of trustees for Districts 6, 8, 13, 14, and 17 will be held. Pursuant to a meeting of the Nominating Committee held on August 21, 2025, the following members are nominated: District 6, Don Teal; District 8, Robert Norton; District 13, Ricky Smith; District 14, Melvin Carabo; and District 17, Jeff Quick.
PLEASE BRING THIS MAGAZINE TO THE MEETING FOR
REGISTRATION.
Entertainment will begin at 9:00 a.m. featuring a local variety band, NTRANZE. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of MPD Electric Cooperative, we cordially invite you to attend this year’s annual meeting!
JEFF QUICK Secretary/Treasurer SAM P. “BO” MCINNIS, JR. Chairman
IMPORTANT: ANNUAL MEETING OFFICIAL REGISTRATION
Please bring with you for registration, business affairs, and prize drawings.
MPD
ELECTRIC SCAN THIS BARCODE
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 1: WEDNESDAY, OCT 1 | MPD OFFICE IN
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 2: FRIDAY, OCT 3 | DARLINGTON RACEWAY
REGISTRATION:
All members will register from their vehicles at any location.
REGISTRATION GIFT:
$25 MPD Bill Credit
PRIZE DRAWINGS:
More than 50 raffle prizes will be given out after the business meeting.
ENTERTAINMENT:
9:00 a.m. - Band: NTRANZE
GRAND PRIZE
2025 Evolution Golf Cart or $10,000 cash
FOOD:
MPD employees will be selling hot dogs to support our Power to Serve charity.
IMPORTANT: Please bring your registration ticket, found on the cover of this magazine (the September Currents), to your desired registration location.
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 1: MPD’s Bennettsville Office | Wednesday, October 1
Drive through anytime between 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 2: Darlington Raceway | Friday, October 3
Drive through anytime between 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
2025 MPD ANNUAL MEETING: Darlington Raceway | Saturday, October 4
Registration from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Business meeting begins at noon followed by raffle prizes.
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 1:
WEDNESDAY, OCT 1 | MPD OFFICE IN BENNETTSVILLE
EARLY REGISTRATION DAY 2:
FRIDAY, OCT 3 | DARLINGTON RACEWAY
2025 MPD ANNUAL MEETING SATURDAY, OCT 4 | DARLINGTON RACEWAY
