Currents South Carolina
A PUBLICATION OF MPD ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE FEBRUARY 2024
BEYOND the Stars
The Ronald McNair Life History Center in Lake City honors the legacy of a local astronaut Page 6
PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX
www.mpd.coop
OFFICE LOCATIONS
1301 E. Pocket Road
P.O. Box 100561 Florence, SC 29502
843-665-4070
676 Highway 9 East
P.O. Box 1057
Bennettsville, SC 29512
843-479-3855
REPORT POWER OUTAGES
866-747-0060
OFFICE HOURS
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
PRESIDENT/CEO
William L. Fleming Jr.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
John Alford
Melvin Carabo
Preston Gainey
James Goodson
Eddie Gordon
David Howell
Sam P. “Bo” McInnis, Jr., Chairman
Robert Norton
Hamer Parnell
Jeff Quick, Secretary
Ronald “Ronnie” Quick
William “Buster” Rogers, Chaplain
Janelle Sauls
LaShon Sellers, Vice-Chairman
Charles R. “Ricky” Smith
Don R. Teal
Patricia Ann Toney
Lee C. White
CO-OP NEWS EDITORS
Katie W. Wilcox, CCC email: kwilcox@mpd.coop
Matt Haynie email: mhaynie@mpd.coop
MISSION STATEMENT
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.
Staying Connected
Do you remember getting free AOL internet CDs in the mail back in the day? Maybe you recall companies such as Prodigy or CompuServe. Or perhaps you remember being told that when the clock struck midnight December 31, 1999, all the computers in the world would fail because of a simple date change.
If any of these rings a bell, then you most certainly remember life before the internet. If you don’t, let me explain how life before the World Wide Web was so different from what it is today.
First off, having followers was a bad thing. It usually meant someone was stalking you, and you should call the cops immediately. Sending people a message involved paper, a stamp and a trip to the post office. If you needed to fact-check something, you needed a trip to the library. If you were lucky enough to afford them, you could reference your set of 32 Encyclopedia Britannica that the nice door-to-door salesperson talked your parents into buying.
Oh, how times have changed.
Today, it’s hard to imagine life without the internet. We shop, pay bills, watch movies, order food, attend school and communicate with others online, just to name a few impacts. The internet has drastically changed how we live and in many ways, it has made our lives better.
Now, don’t get me wrong. The internet is not all sunshine and rainbows, and it has created its fair share of problems in our lives. Overall, however, I believe our lives are better with it than without it.
Social media specifically has made staying in touch with friends and family as easy as shooting fish in a barrel—although I have never tried shooting fish in a barrel; that’s just something we pre-internet folks used to say. You no longer have to wait until the next family reunion to find out granny went skydiving for her 80th birthday. You can see the video—before the plane lands—on Facebook.
Did you know social media is also a seamless way to keep up with MPD Electric Cooperative?
Through our various social media channels, you can learn more about what is going on at your cooperative as it’s happening in real time.
This is especially valuable during storms. Using social media, we can provide minute-by-minute outage reports and notify you when your power is restored. When safe to do so, our dedicated lineworkers send us pictures from the field so we can share what areas are seeing the largest impacts. Facebook, specifically, is a great listening tool for us. Often, our members let us know conditions as they see them unfold during storms.
Social media and the internet are just two more ways we can take care of you, our MPD Electric family. Stay connected with us! Click on the QR codes below to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
RONNIE QUICK Trustee
Space Heater Safety: Warming Your Home Safely
By DeAnna Greene
During the colder months, many homeowners turn to space heaters as a convenient way to keep their living spaces warm and cozy. Space heaters have gained popularity for their ability to provide localized heat. However, it’s important to note that most space heaters are not energy efficient. These devices typically consume a significant amount of electricity compared to other heating methods, such as central heating systems.
While space heaters can effectively provide localized warmth, it is essential to understand the potential risks they pose and the necessary safety measures to ensure a safe heating experience.
At MPD Electric, we prioritize the safety of our members, and we’re here to provide guidelines on how to use space heaters safely.
Choose the Right Heater
When selecting a space heater, choose one that meets safety regulations and is appropriate for your specific needs. Look for space heaters with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label, which ensures the heater has undergone rigorous testing.
Additionally, consider the size of the area you plan to heat and opt for a heater with an automatic shut-off function in case the heater tips over or reaches a specific temperature.
Location
Appropriate placement of your space heater is crucial to avoid potential hazards. Always place the heater on a level, nonflammable surface, at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, such as furniture, curtains or bedding. Never
place a space heater on countertops or near water sources. It could start a fire or create an electrical hazard.
Power up With Caution
Before plugging in your space heater, inspect the electrical cord for any damage or fraying. Ensure the heater is compatible with the electrical outlets in your home. Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip. They can overheat and create a potential fire risk. If needed, have a certified electrician install additional outlets to accommodate your space heater safely.
Temperature Control and Monitoring
Space heaters often come with built-in thermostats and temperature controls. Set the heater to a comfortable temperature and avoid leaving it unattended. Remember to turn off and unplug the heater for added safety when leaving the room or going to sleep. Additionally, never use a space heater as the primary heating source for an entire home. They are intended for limited, localized use.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Even when taking proper precautions, accidents can still happen. Have functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors placed throughout your home. Consistently check the batteries and ensure the detectors are always in good working condition.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
To ensure the continued safe use of your space heater, perform regular maintenance and inspections. Clean the heater per the manufacturer’s instructions, removing any dust and debris that may
pose a fire hazard. In addition, schedule an annual inspection with a qualified technician to verify that all components are functioning correctly and that there are no hidden problems.
Educating Children and Family Members
When using space heaters, educating your family members—especially children— about the potential dangers and safety precautions is crucial. Prevent burns or other accidents by teaching them not to touch or play near the heater. Emphasize the importance of unplugging the heater when not in use and encourage them to alert an adult if they notice any safety concerns.
At MPD Electric, safety is our priority. Following these space heater safety guidelines allows you to enjoy their warmth and comfort without compromising your well-being. Stay warm and safe this winter.
The Ronald McNair Life History Center in Lake City honors the legacy of a local astronaut
By Jodi Helmer
The world watched January 28, 1986, as the Space Shuttle Challenger launched from Kennedy Space Center.
Just 73 seconds into the flight, the Challenger broke apart in the air, and the pieces fell 46,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida. All seven crew members aboard the flight died.
Ronald McNair was one of the NASA astronauts who lost his life in the Challenger disaster. He was 35.
In 1978, Ronald was selected from a pool of 10,000 applicants to join the NASA astronaut program. He made his first trip to space in 1984 as a mission specialist aboard the Challenger, and was the second African American astronaut to go to space.
The University of South Carolina called Ronald “the unlikeliest of heroes,” but the events that led to his career as an astronaut tell a different story.
On a Mission to Make a Difference
BEYOND the Stars
Ronald grew up in Lake City, South Carolina. His brother, Carl, remembers Ronald having a strong interest in science and dreaming about going to space. He was so intent on pursuing that passion that when he was 9 years old, he snuck out of the house and walked to the library, where he chose to read math and science books.
Carl told NPR that as Ronald waited in line to check out the books, the librarian asked him to leave, telling him, “The library is not for coloreds” and threatened to call the police. Ronald waited, and when the police arrived, he was allowed to go home with the books.
In the NPR article, Carl said his brother saw science as a possibility but admits he never believed Ronald would achieve his dream of going to space because astronauts were celebrities like Neil Armstrong.
He asked the reporter, “How was a colored boy from South Carolina—wearing glasses, never flew a plane—how was he gonna become an astronaut?”
It was that childhood passion for science that put Ronald on a path to higher education.
He was the valedictorian of the Carver High School class of 1967. He graduated from North Carolina A&T University with a Bachelor of Science and earned a Ph.D. in physics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology before joining NASA.
North Carolina A&T and the University of South Carolina later awarded Ronald honorary doctorates.
In 2011, the building that once housed the library where Ronald was almost banned from checking out books was dedicated as Ronald
McNair Life History Center.
Michael Cooper, who was the head librarian when the Washington Times wrote an article about the history center in 2015, was a high school student at the time of the Challenger disaster but expressed amazement at the astronaut’s childhood tenacity.
“Here was this little boy who had the strength to show his emotion toward books, the importance of books,” Michael says. “To me, he was trying to open doors for other people his age. It was amazing this child did it, rather than an adult.”
A Space Odyssey
Ronald spent the first part of his career working with lasers. At MIT, he performed experiments on chemical and high-pressure lasers.
He was later hired as a staff physicist at Hughes Research Laboratories in California, where he contributed to the development of lasers that could separate isotopes and photochemistry using nonlinear interactions in low-temperature liquids and optical pumping techniques.
In 1984, Ronald completed his first flight as a NASA mission specialist. He was part of STS 41-B aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger that launched February 3, 1984. As part of the mission, Ronald worked alongside a crew of four astronauts to deploy two Hughes 376 communication satellites and test in-flight sensors and computer programs.
STS 41-B was the first flight of the Manned Maneuvering Unit and the first time astronauts used the Canadian arm to position crewmen around the space shuttle’s payload bay. Ronald operated the arm and was responsible for several middeck experiments, including acoustic levitation and chemical separation.
The Challenger was in space for eight days. Upon its landing February 11, 1984, at Kennedy Space Center, Ronald had logged 191 hours in space.
Ronald’s wife, Cheryl McNair Moore, told CBS News her husband described the view of Earth from space as beautiful and peaceful, without divisions or lines.
“As he thought the Lord meant for us to live,” she says.
When he was not engaged in experiments aboard the Challenger, Ronald—an accomplished musician— played his saxophone. He was the first astronaut to play a musical instrument in space. He planned to play a saxophone solo on his second Challenger mission as part of composer Jean Michel Jarre’s album, “Rendez-Vous.”
As a tribute to the astronaut and musician, Jean Michel included “Last Rendez-Vous,” which became known as Ron’s Piece, as the last track on the album.
Keeping a Legacy Alive
Ronald McNair Life History Center is filled with memorabilia that honors the life of the local astronaut. The photographs and artifacts tell the story of Ronald’s life and pay tribute to his accomplishments.
At a 2011 vigil honoring the astronauts who died during the Challenger explosion, Ronald’s daughter, Joy, told the South Carolina Now, “It truly touches my heart to know that the Lake City community
The Ronald McNair Life History Center at Francis Marion University displays moments from Ronald’s life, including a statue of Ronald. PHOTOS BY KATIE WILCOX
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT
Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mike Teegarden, CCC
SC CURRENTS EDITORS
Jennifer Paton, CCC
Valeri Pearon
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Chasity Anderson, CCC
Victoria Hampton, CCC
David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
SENIOR MANAGER, PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
Elizabeth Beatty
PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
South Carolina Currents (issue 58) 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.
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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!
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.
The historic Duvall building on Second Street in Cheraw was built in 1914 for Cheraw Hardware & Supply Co. Originally, wagons could drive through the building from front to back and be loaded inside the warehouse. The third floor was once used for community dances, basketball games and roller skating. It was later used by the National Guard. The business closed in 1997 after 104 years of operation by the Duvall family. The building now serves as a salon and tobacco shop.
Life at a Glance
Graduated from MIT with a Ph.D. in physics. His dissertation was titled, “Energy Absorption and Vibrational Heating in Molecules Following Intense Laser Excitation.”
Earned several awards, including a service commendation from the Los Angeles Public School System, Distinguished Alumni Award and the National Society of Black Professional Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award.
1978
1976
1984
1979
Chosen from a pool of 10,000 applicants to complete the NASA astronaut training program.
Served as a mission specialist, STS-51-L aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger, which exploded 73 seconds after launch. Ronald died January 28 at age 35.
1986
Served as a mission specialist for STS41-B aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. The mission featured the first untethered space walk, and McNair became the second African American astronaut to go to space.
Cheryl McNair Moore founded the Challenger Center, a nonprofit organization focusing on science, technology, engineering and math education to inspire students through hands-on learning opportunities.
Buildings across the nation were named—or renamed—to honor the astronaut, including The McNair Building at MIT and the McNair Science Center at Francis Marion University. There are also several public schools bearing his name and even a crater on the moon named McNair Crater.
The University of South Carolina founded the McNair Aerospace Center in 2011 to support the state’s aerospace industry through aerospace education, research leadership and industry advancement.
In a biography on its website, the university says, “(McNair’s) inspiring career was cut short in the Challenger space shuttle tragedy in 1986, (but) his legacy continues.” n
OPPOSITE and ABOVE: The Ronald McNair Life History Center at Francis Marion University displays moments from Ronald’s life.
Onizuka,
PHOTOS BY KATIE WILCOX TOP: The crew for the Space Shuttle Challenger flight 51-L leaves their quarters for the launch pad, Jan. 27, 1986, at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Front to back are Commander Francis Scobee, Mission Spl. Judith Resnik, Mission Spl. Ronald McNair, Payload Spl. Gregory Jarvis, Mission Spl. Ellison
teacher Christa McAuliffe, and pilot Michael Smith. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Ronald’s McNair’s
1967
thinks so much of my father’s life and legacy, and the fact that they continue to keep it alive and honor him 25 years later is simply amazing.”
Lake City holds the vigil annually on January 28.
Ronald overcame numerous obstacles to pursue his dreams and encouraged others to do the same. The Ronald McNair Life History Center continues that work.
Plans to expand the center include a science and technology museum to help South Carolina students learn about space, physics and other science topics Ronald studied.
Ronald logged numerous academic and professional achievements. He was a Presidential Scholar and Ford Foundation
1971-74
Fellow, and the National Society of Black Professional Engineers named him a Distinguished National Scientist. He was inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame in 1997.
In recognition of his passion for learning and higher education, the U.S. Department of Education created the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program. Congress funds the program to encourage minority and low-income, first-generation college students to pursue graduate education and doctoral degrees.
In 2015, former Lake City Mayor Lovith Anderson told the Manning Times the center keeps Ronald’s legacy alive.
“The life center says a lot for this community and how we’ve grown,” he said.
Born October 21 in Lake City, South Carolina.
Graduated from Carver High School. The school was segregated until 1970.
Graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science from North Carolina A&T University.
Named a Presidential Scholar and Ford Foundation Fellow.
Named a NATO Fellow.
Layers of Love
Take Valentine's Day to new heights with a multilayered chocolate cake
Story and photos by Libby Wiersema
Chocolate has been a Valentine’s Day tradition since the Victorian era when Richard Cadbury first packaged his confections into heart-shaped boxes for gift-giving. It was a brilliant stroke of marketing that boosted sales and charmed recipients. For modern-day lovers with a passion for chocolate, it remains a steadfast and sweet show of affection.
These days, chocolate in most any form is just as welcome, with chocolate cake a commonly preferred Valentine’s Day dessert. Perhaps no other cake makes as much of a first impression as the Southern favorite called little layer chocolate cake.
As the name implies, this cake consists of multiple—as in kaboodles—of little layers coated with a boiled cocoa-based icing. You have likely enjoyed it at birthday celebrations, family gatherings and other functions where Southerners congregate for food and fellowship.
Nobody forgets their first encounter with this towering, slightly askew, chocolatey calling card of church ladies and grandmothers across the Deep South. On any given holiday, it gets paraded out in all its stratified, gooey glory.
Both Alabama and Georgia claim this cake as their own invention. Carolinians are quick to point out that they have been eating it since before time began.
Marylanders insist their Smith Island cake is the original version. In Louisiana, the wide-spread belief is that its Hungarian-rooted Doberge cake is what first influenced bakers to go to such extreme heights.
While each faction makes a strong argument, all that matters in the end is that somebody somewhere at some point in time had the notion to bake a ridiculous number of thin cake layers and glue them all together with a rich chocolate icing.
Having never made one myself, I became little layer chocolate cake-curious while pondering its place in Southern culture. I searched recipes, talked to friends and family, and flipped through myriad church and community cookbooks.
Of course, the internet yielded an endless number of recipes, too. After settling on one, I secured six aluminum pie pans and cleared the kitchen counters. I was ready to tackle this giant of a cake.
As instructed, I sprayed each pan with food release and cut parchment paper to fit the bottoms. Making the batter was easy. The icing was a bit more involved just because it required constant stirring and a candy thermometer.
A certain amount of coordination was needed for baking and removing the cakes to cooling racks. I was facing 18 layers, so I had to juggle space and equipment.
What I thought would be the easiest part—stacking and icing the layers— turned out to be the trickiest. Each layer
Eighteen pancake-like layers of cake meld with rich chocolate icing to create a dessert well known throughout the South.
soaked up the icing, which turned out a bit thinner than expected, like a sponge. They did not lay flat upon one another, so I gently tried to press them together.
As the cake grew taller, it resembled something from a Dr. Seuss book, and I worried it would fall sideways. Amazingly, the icing did its job and kept the whole thing together.
But what a mess! That icing was everywhere: the counters, the pans, my apron, my face and my fingers. Everything I touched was marked by chocolate. Just like the recipe warned, the final visual effect was not exactly picture-perfect. In fact, it was downright awkward-looking for a celebration cake.
I allowed everything to set while I cleaned up. Then, it was time to put my little layer chocolate cake to the test. Nervously, I cut into it. To my surprise, the
slice held together as I plated it.
Now, for the first bite: While the icing and the cake tasted good on their own, when melded together, there was a surprising “wow” factor. Something about all those little chocolate-soaked, pancakelike layers was simply extraordinary in the mouth. (Note: For overnight storage in the refrigerator, I had to cover it with a pasta pot as none of my cake stands or carriers were deep enough.)
Admittedly, making this cake requires time—a little more than two hours—so I will not be doing an encore anytime soon. But I will happily taste a slice made by somebody else.
Here are a few establishments that offer this cake—from six to 18 layers—either on the daily menu, on a rotational basis or by special order. Call in advance to check availability.
Little Layer Chocolate Cake
If your Valentine is a chocolate cake lover, roll up your sleeves and get busy making this high-rise, eyepopping, tastebud-pleasing dessert. It truly makes for a stunning presentation. I used the recipe from Southern Living, which was much like all the others I perused. Due to space limitations, I am providing the link here: http://tinyurl.com/8vj42387. You may also email me for a copy.
• Magnolia on Main, Bennettsville 843-479-9495
• CJ’s Cakes and Catering, Hartsville 843-339-9003
• Freeman’s Bakery, Florence 843-662-3903
• Icing Ink, Florence 843-407-1470
• Sweet, Florence 843-799-0500
• Sweet Tooth, Florence 843-245-7697
If you know of other bakeries or cafes offering little layer chocolate cake, shoot me an email. n
Libby Wiersema writes about dining, food trends and the state’s culinary history for Discover South Carolina, and other print and online media. Contact her at libbyscarolinaspoon@gmail.com, or visit the Carolina Spoon Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SClibby.1111.
Grow Where Planted
By Dave LaBelle
It’s an old saying: “Grow where you are planted.”
Most of us struggle with being content, often feeling we want or even need to be somewhere else—maybe someplace more exotic? Anywhere other than where we are.
Generally, I am content wherever I am. But, admittedly, now and then I catch myself mentally whining—wishing I could be photographing international events in those glamorous places my
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer
Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
globe-trotting friends go.
During these pity parties, pride seizes me, and I mumble under my breath, “I could make great pictures, too, if I could be where they are.”
Shame on me.
Truth is, beauty and heartache are present everywhere humans exist, and as a homeless friend once wisely advised, “It’s all a matter of putting on your perspecticles.”
I have lived and worked in many states across our great country and even in other countries, and each and every place has its unique beauty.
In California, I was obsessed with photographing the moody ocean, rolling hills and “two trees,” landmarks that stood on the foothills above Ventura for decades and could be seen from miles away. I never tired of trying to make a better, unique
photograph of these beloved twins.
We presently live in Iowa. How long we will live here, I do not know. But this I do know: If my heart is always wandering the hills and oceans of faraway places, my eyes of envy will rob me from seeing the unique beauty surrounding me right here.
Iowa is a land of seductive openness, uncluttered landscapes where dreams dance playfully between swaying oceans of corn fields. It is a comforting place where I can watch forever skies kiss the Earth.
It is also a special place that draws people from across the globe to experience the “Field of Dreams” movie site. One of my greatest joys has been getting to know and photograph some of the original Ghost Players who were in the 1989 movie. n
Reader Challenge
Ask yourself what makes where you live different, compelling, beautiful or even unique? Is it the way the winter light awakens a particular mountaintop? Or the color or life-rhythm of a fishing village? Perhaps it is a river or lake that brings you the greatest joy or comfort? If I came to your town or city, what would you want to show me?
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
NIKON D800, 58mm lens ISO 100, f/3.2 at 1/320
Against a backdrop of dark skies and green hills, pickers cut and box celery in Ventura, California.
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
MPD Electric Scholarship Committee presents:
The MPD 2024/25Scholarship
Open to children of current MPD Electric Cooperative members, this scholarship is available to those who plan to, or are currently attending any 2-year or 4-year college as a full-time student. Annual awards available are up to $9,500!
Apply online at www.mpd.coop
The application deadline is Friday, March 29th!
• Selected applicants will be required to provide a final transcript before issuance of scholarship.
• Scholarships will be renewed each semester of attendance, not exceeding the two- or four-year limit, based on cumulative GPA obtained within each year the scholarships have been applied. Payment will be sent to the financial-aid business office of the applicant’s chosen school each qualifying semester and applied to the recipient's school account.
• To renew the scholarship, recipients must maintain a GPA of 2.7 or higher, based on a 4.0 scale.
• Student progress will be reviewed annually following each academic school year. Students who fall below the minimum GPA requirement and full-time status of at least 12 hours each semester will be ineligible to further receive the scholarship.
• Students who are eligible for the LIFE or HOPE scholarships, or other academic scholarships, are eligible to receive the scholarship. In such cases, the amount of the MPD Scholarship may be used to supplement the other scholarships received, but the total scholarship package may not exceed the total cost of the college’s tuition and fees.
Deadline March 29, 2024. Current transcript and completed scholarship application
Please submit online at mpd.coop
For questions, call Katie Wilcox at 843-292-4387
Who Is Cupid?
Cupid, the mischievous cherub armed with a bow and arrow, is the prankster responsible for orchestrating love connections across the universe.
Often depicted as a rosy-cheeked baby with tiny wings and a penchant for mischief, Cupid has played matchmaker since ancient times, leaving a trail of heart-shaped chaos in his wake.
The legend of Cupid, the mischievous god of love in Roman mythology, evolved from the Greek myth of Eros, the god of desire. Initially portrayed as a handsome and powerful archer, Cupid underwent a transformation in Roman art and literature, where he took on the cherubic appearance we commonly associate with him today.
Legend has it that Cupid is the son of Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Apparently, love runs in the family, and Cupid inherited his mother’s knack for stirring up romantic trouble. Armed with his trusty bow, rumored to be made from the finest materials sourced from the heavens (and maybe a touch of glitter for that extra flair), Cupid aims at unsuspecting hearts, piercing them with the sweet sting of love.
But Cupid’s matchmaking antics are not without their quirks. It’s said he sometimes wears a blindfold, adding a dash of unpredictability to his love connections. Picture this: a blindfolded
cherub, armed with a bow and arrow, navigating the tumultuous terrain of love with the grace of a tipsy flamingo. It’s a spectacle that could only happen in the fantastic world of mythology.
Cupid’s arrows are no ordinary projectiles either. They are dipped in a potent love potion that works its magic on anyone struck by one. It’s like a cosmic Tinder swipe, only more enchanting and with a 100% success rate. Once struck, individuals find themselves head over heels, often in the most unexpected (and sometimes hilarious) pairings.
The misadventures of Cupid have been chronicled in countless tales throughout history, and his escapades are the stuff of comedy and tragedy. From accidentally causing love triangles to triggering whirlwind romances that even Shakespeare would find bewildering, Cupid’s track record is a rollercoaster of emotions.
In modern times, Cupid has adapted to the digital age, swapping his bow for a smartphone and his arrows for heart emojis. His celestial matchmaking skills have transcended the boundaries of time and space, infiltrating social media platforms and dating apps.
Now, instead of shooting arrows, he sends push notifications that say, “You have a new match!”
Who knew love could be delivered to
your doorstep with the efficiency of an Amazon package?
Despite his mischievous ways, Cupid remains a beloved figure in popular culture. His image is plastered on Valentine’s Day cards, chocolate boxes and cheesy romance novels.
People might grumble about his interference in their love lives, but deep down, they secretly thank the mischievous cherub for the unexpected twists and turns that make love the thrilling adventure it is.
So, the next time you feel the sweet sting of love or find yourself in an unexpected romance, you might just have Cupid to thank—or blame.
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.
Across
Across Macy's event, for one (6)
1 Macy’s event, for one (6)
4 Shelled food, reportedly providing strength (6)
9 Leaves for smoking (7)
Shelled food, reportedly, providing strength (6)
10 Doodling or daydreaming, perhaps (5)
11 A background actor in a film (5)
12 Strappy summer shoes (7)
13 Recalling (events of the past) (11)
18 ____ delivery or ____ effects (7)
20 Aesop conclusion (5)
Leaves for smoking (7)
22 Church choir accompaniment (5)
23 Stress; suspense (7)
24 Bear hardship (6)
Doodling or daydreaming, perhaps (5)
25 ____ ratio (measure of screen proportions) (6)
Down
1 Like many indoor plants (6)
A background actor in a film (5)
2 CAPTCHA target (5)
3 Reveal to a customs inspector (7)
5 The “u” of “yuppie” (5)
Strappy summer shoes (7)
6 It falls after a play (7)
7 Like Marcia, among the “Brady Bunch” daughters (6)
Recalling (events of the past) (11) ___ delivery or ___ effects (7)
8 Likelihood (11)
14 Broke the surface (7)
15 Evokes a memory (7)
16 Dry place for sailors to wash (6)
17 Celestial, orbiting body (6)
Aesop conclusion (5)
Church choir accompaniment (5)
Stress; suspense (7)
Bear hardship (6)
____ ratio (measure of screen proportions) (6)
Like many indoor plants (6)
Home Cooking WITH COFFEE
Coffee Coffee Cake
Crumb topping
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon instant coffee powder
4 tablespoons butter, melted
Heat oven to 350 F.
Spray a 9-by-9-inch pan, and line with parchment. Spray the parchment as well.
For the crumb topping: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, coffee powder and salt. Add the melted butter. Mix until it forms crumbs that you can clump together in your hand.
For the cake: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking
Cake
1¾ cups cake flour
¾ teaspoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
soda, cinnamon and salt. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the coffee and sour cream until smooth.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until each is well-combined. Add the vanilla. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Starting and ending with the dry
½ cup strong-brewed coffee
1⁄3 cup sour cream
1 cup butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 extra-large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
ingredients, alternate adding the flour mixture and the coffee mixture to the stand mixer. Mix well after each addition. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Top with crumb topping, spreading it evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven. Cool for 20 to 30 minutes before cutting and serving.
Sausage Gravy for Biscuits
1 pound ground sausage
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1 cup water
¼ cup brewed coffee
Salt and pepper, to taste
Brown sausage in a cast-iron skillet. Add flour, and brown. Add milk and water. Simmer for desired thickness. Stir coffee into the mixture. If it’s too thick, add more milk. Season with salt and pepper. Serve over your favorite biscuits.
Coffee Baked Beans
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 sweet onion, chopped
¼ cup vinegar-based barbecue sauce
Heat the oven to 350 F.
28-ounce can baked beans
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
¼ cup brewed coffee
Cook the chopped bacon in a pot over medium heat until browned, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the bacon grease in the pan. Drain the bacon on paper towels.
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook for 15 minutes over medium-low heat or until caramelized. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the bacon back to the pot, as well as the remaining ingredients. Mix.
Pour the beans into a greased 8-by-8-inch baking dish. Bake for 2 hours. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Mocha Cupcakes
Cupcakes
1 cup sugar
½ cup brewed coffee, cold
½ cup canola oil
2 extra-large eggs, room temperature
3 teaspoons cider vinegar
Frosting
3 tablespoons milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons semisweet chocolate chips
Heat oven to 350 F.
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1⁄3 cup baking cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon salt
1⁄3 cup butter, softened
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons brewed coffee
½ cup chocolate sprinkles
In a large bowl, beat sugar, coffee, oil, eggs, vinegar and vanilla until well-blended. In a small bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. Gradually beat into coffee mixture until blended.
Fill 12 paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make frosting: In a large bowl, melt chips and butter in a microwave. Stir until smooth. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar and enough coffee to reach desired consistency. Pipe frosting onto cupcakes, and add sprinkles.
Coffee Dry Rub for Steak
2 tablespoons coarse salt
2 tablespoons instant coffee
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon crushed coriander
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cayenne, more or less to taste
Add all ingredients to a medium-sized bowl. Mix well. Once mixed, it can be used immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight glass container.
S’mores
Creme Brulee
1 cup whole milk
3 extra-large eggs, room temperature
2⁄3 cup sugar
1⁄3 cup baking cocoa
2 tablespoons strong-brewed coffee
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Heat oven to 325 F.
2⁄3 cup graham cracker crumbs
1⁄3 cup sugar
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1.55-ounce milk chocolate candy bar, broken into 12 pieces
In a small saucepan, heat milk until bubbles form around sides of pan. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, cocoa and coffee until blended but not foamy. Slowly whisk in hot milk.
Place six 4-ounce broiler-safe ramekins in a baking pan large enough to hold them without touching. Pour egg mixture into ramekins. Place pan on oven rack. Add hot water to pan to within ½ inch of the top of the ramekins.
Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Centers will still be soft. Remove ramekins from water bath immediately to a wire rack. Cool for 10 minutes. Refrigerate until cold.
In a small bowl, mix butter and cracker crumbs. Set aside. To caramelize topping with a kitchen torch, sprinkle custards evenly with sugar. Hold torch flame about 2 inches above custard surface. Rotate it slowly until sugar is evenly caramelized. Sprinkle custards with crumb mixture, and top with marshmallows. Using the torch, heat marshmallows until browned. Top with chocolate pieces. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour.
To caramelize topping in a broiler, place ramekins on a baking sheet. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Heat broiler. Sprinkle custards evenly with sugar. Broil 3 to 4 inches from heat for 3 to 5 minutes or until sugar is caramelized. Sprinkle custards with crumb mixture. Top with marshmallows. Broil for 30 to 45 seconds or until marshmallows are browned. Top with chocolate pieces. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour.
Visit the International African American Museum for a thought-provoking history lesson
Story and photos by Libby Wiersema
Several such signs are positioned around the perimeter of the International African American Museum in Charleston. While guests may enter the building wondering why this is hallowed ground, those who immerse themselves in the experience are sure to gain enlightenment.
Please respect this sacred space.
The IAAM is no ordinary attraction. In fact, the term “attraction” fails to embody the essence of what is happening here. From the moment one strolls onto the grounds, a transformation ensures their exit will be far more measured. For some, this means thoughtful reckoning and contemplation. For others, it means heightened ancestral connections and cultural pride.
planted and germinating for hundreds of years, and now we till the soil.”
The care with which this dream has been cultivated is evident in every aspect of IAAM.
The surrounding garden, punctuated by Canary Island palms and a sweetgrass field, uses water and land to create a prologue to the African American story. The modern, sleek building—elevated by 18 tabby-infused columns—hovers 13 feet above Gadsden’s Wharf, where nearly half of all enslaved Africans first stepped foot onto this continent.
“I thought I knew everything about [our] struggles and contributions, but what I see here is so much more than I ever imagined,” says a tearful Cylie Ward, who is visiting from Washington, D.C. “It gives me all the feels and just a deeper respect for the path we’ve been on, all the obstacles, and where we need to go as a nation.”
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:The International African American Museum’s acronym also delivers an empowering statement: “I AM.” Milestone events in African American history are documented through IAAM exhibits. Transatlantic Crossings offers a stunning visual account of the African American experience.
BACKGROUND IMAGE: Walls filled with the names and ages of enslaved Africans invite reflection and contemplation.
Such reactions have been commonplace since the highly anticipated opening of IAAM.
“After decades of planning and hard work, we are thrilled to officially open IAAM to the public,” Tonya Matthews, president and CEO of IAAM, said at the June 27 grand opening. “Thank you for waiting several centuries for this moment to honor the untold story of the African American people. We welcome everyone to visit us at IAAM— to simultaneously hold the sensations of trauma and joy that are woven together throughout our exhibitions and feel something that is akin to everything. Our stories, our history—they are seeds, and seeds sprout. They have been
The haunting ebb and flow of Tide Tribute is an homage to them, with the silhouettes of men, women and children “floating” beneath a shifting, shallow sheet of water. It is a hypnotic sight, one that seems to conjure the spirits of the countless captives who disembarked at this once-busy slave port.
It is an apt launching point for the story that continues to unfold inside. Visitors enter through the Transatlantic Gallery–a foyer defined by eight giant video screens alive with images of the historical journey of African Americans. Beyond that, guests can meander through a varied layout of timelines, educational videos, interactive features, artifacts and an array of artistic and literary displays.
Inside the façade of a prayer house, guests may take a seat on a bench and view a moving short film. It’s just one area where visitors can settle in and watch a video presentation.
The museum does not shy away from the realities of slavery and other atrocities, nor does it ignore racial progress and current affairs. The real story of Charleston is told here, and it has little in common with the more familiar, romanticized versions. Collectively,
the past and present deliver a thoughtprovoking history lesson, unlike anything visitors might have gotten in a classroom. Multilayered and textured, the features of this museum and its rotating special exhibits create an eye-opening experience.
“The most common remark we receive from guests is, ‘I can’t wait to come back again,’” a museum volunteer says.
A series of dedicated galleries provides an educational and often riveting narrative. In one, the names and ages of captured Africans float somberly across a wall like a universe of stars against a darkening sky.
Themes such as African roots/African routes, American journeys, Atlantic worlds, Carolina gold, creative journeys, South Carolina collections and Gullah Geechee examine how culture, economics and politics have been shaped by free Blacks, nationwide and across the state. This includes local history, too, such as information about Florence County’s Jamestown community in Mars Bluff.
In the Center for Family History, visitors can access tools and receive assistance in researching their African roots and documenting their own American experiences in Storybooth, a groundbreaking component that makes IAAM especially relevant to many people.
Galleries for special art installations shine the spotlight on local African American artists. A recent display by Charleston multidisciplinary artist Fletcher Williams III offered an ethereal walk through a colorful labyrinth using sculpture, light and sound to deepen the meaning of the Southern experience. n
The International African American Museum is at 14 Wharfside St., Charleston. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Visitors must reserve a time and buy a ticket for their visit. The last entry each day is 4 p.m. For more information, visit iaamuseum.org/plan-your-visit or call 843-872-5252.
RIGHT: Atlantic Crossings depicts haunting video images symbolic of the African American experience.
ABOVE RIGHT: The museum hovers above Gadsden’s Wharf, where nearly half of all enslaved Africans first landed in this country.
The story of African Americans in South Carolina is conveyed through words and images.
Silhouettes of the enslaved people who first arrived in Charleston appear to move beneath the ebb and flow of a tidal pool.
The plantation system that relied on slave labor is explored in depth at IAAM.
Fun Festivals&
FEBRUARY 1-10
ArtFields Traveling Exhibition
This exhibition features the 2023 Art elds Jr. winning art and regional art. Closing celebrations are 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 10.
8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday
BURR GALLERY, CHERAW COMMUNITY CENTER
200 Powe St., Cheraw
FEBRUARY 1-15
Anne Frank Exhibit
Visitors learn about Anne Frank’s story and legacy through photos, videos and original artifacts that represent the experience of her family as they hid behind her father’s business in Amsterdam. Entry is free.
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday BLACK CREEK ART COUNCIL
116 W. College Ave., Hartsville
FEBRUARY 8
Father/Daughter Dance
A night out on the dance oor with Dad. Entry to the dance is $30 for father/daughter couples and $10 for each additional child. For more information, call 843-3984030.
6-8:30 p.m.
DARLINGTON COUNTY PARKS, RECREATION AND TOURISM
300 Sanders St., Darlington
FEBRUARY 9
24th Annual Father/ Daughter Dance
Make sure to arrive early for a special photo with Dad at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 and must be bought in advance. All proceeds bene t the Florence YMCA scholarship program.
6:30-8:45 p.m. SIMT
1951 Pisgah Road, Florence
FEBRUARY 10
9th Annual Ice Breaker
In its ninth year, this event includes NASCAR Advance Auto Parts late models, a STAR Super Stock tour, super trucks, mini stocks and vintage cars. Noon-5 p.m.
FLORENCE MOTOR SPEEDWAY
836 E. Smith St., Timmonsville
FEBRUARY 115
Anne Frank Exhibit
MARCH 11
An Evening of Laughter
FEBRUARY 10
Black Business Expo
Lake View SC will have its second Black Business Expo to highlight local Black-owned businesses.
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
LAKE VIEW COMMUNITY CENTER
Lake View
FEBRUARY 18-19
American Heritage Festival
Visit the home of the Swamp Fox to see reenactments, weapons demos, entertainment and more.
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sunday
GRAHAM’S FARM
843 McCutcheon Road, Lake City
FEBRUARY 24
14th Annual Swamp Fox
Chili Cooko
This event features music, chili, food trucks, cornhole and prize money. For more information, visit swampfox.org.
11 a.m.-5 p.m.
MAIN STREET COMMONS
229 N. Main St., Marion
FEBRUARY 25
Secret Lives of the Stars
Narrated by Patrick Stewart, this is an introduction to a variety of stars and the way they evolve and change over time. Entry to the event is free.
3-4 p.m.
DOOLEY PLANETARIUM
4822 E. Palmetto St., Florence
MARCH 3
Masterworks Choir
The Masterworks Choir 202324 concert season is in full swing with “A Celebration of Women Poets and Composers.”
4-5 p.m.
CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
265 W. Cheves St., Florence
MARCH 9
Forever Motown
“Forever Motown” delights with all-star performers, including former members of The Four Tops, The Temptations and The Marvelettes.
7:30-9:30 p.m.
FMU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
201 S. Dargan St., Florence
FEBRUARY 8
Father/Daughter Dance
MARCH 9
Forever Motown
MARCH 11
An Evening of Laughter
Join the comedian, actor, gameshow host, entrepreneur, humanitarian and di erence maker Je Foxworthy. This event bene ts the House of Hope of the Pee Dee. Ticket prices vary.
6:30 p.m.
FLORENCE CENTER
3300 W. Radio Drive, Florence
The Four Virtues of Stoicism
Can an Ancient Philosophy Make You Happier?
The FourVirtuesofS
By Robin Howard
The year is 301 BCE, and a group is gathered on the porch of the public marketplace. Several men are engaged in a debate about the meaning of life. They’re using the teachings of the great Greek philosophers such as Zeno, Epictetus, Seneca and Socrates as a foundation.
The Greek word for “porch” is stoa, so they’re known as the Stoics. In other words, street philosophers.
What these men were trying to discover was simple: What are the ingredients of a meaningful, well-lived life? Their conclusions persist in a school of thought called stoicism, which is just as relevant today as it was 1,700 years ago.
The Four Virtues of Stoicism
Stoicism doesn’t mean keeping a stiff upper lip. Instead, it’s a way to find inner peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances. Stoics believed
every situation we face is an opportunity to be met with at least one of these four traits:
Courage. Facing difficult situations with intentional calm helps us discover what we’re made of and gives us confidence and self-respect.
Moderation. If doing nothing is cowardice and doing too much is reckless, then doing just the right amount is the perfect balance. Developing small daily habits and making small changes is the key to contentment and success.
Justice. For Stoics, justice meant doing the right thing, even at significant personal risk. Stoics held this trait dear because they believed justice is contagious. When people see others doing the right thing, they are influenced to do the right thing.
Wisdom. How do we know what the right thing is? How do we know when
we’re doing too much or not enough? By cultivating knowledge and experience. Zeno implores us to listen, read and observe twice as much as we talk and to be teachable. He also advises us to ensure we’re taking in the right information (facts), not just any information available.
Stoicism in Daily Life
The men arguing on the porch believed nine philosophical practices could provide a practical framework for happiness in daily life:
Negative visualization. Stoics practice negative visualization because thinking about how things could be worse makes us feel grateful and can help us prepare for hardship.
The dichotomy of control. Stoics constantly remind themselves of what is and is not under their control. They focus their energy on their attitudes, choices
and actions, letting go of anxiety about external circumstances.
The discipline of desire and aversion. Stoics train themselves to want only what is in line with their values because contradicting our values makes us unhappy.
Mindfulness and self-examination. Stoicism encourages us to evaluate ourselves regularly. The more we improve, the happier we are.
The view from above. Considering the insignificance of our problems in the grand scheme of time and the universe helps us put trivial problems in perspective.
To learn more about Stoicism, read the modern version of “Meditations,” a book of the daily writings of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The book is annotated by scholars who put his observations in plain language. n
ADOBE STOCK AI ILLUSTRATION BY FERENC
Reasons Needs Slipcovers Your Furniture
Slipcovers offer great protection from petrelated damage.
PHOTOS BY BRANDI FAULK
The living room is a central spot for household activity. Whether you have children, pets or guests, or spend the end of each day kicking back and watching TV, your living room furniture suffers from everyday wear and tear.
If your furniture has seen better days, and you are ready for an update, you don’t have to cash in that check on a new couch, loveseat or chair. How would you like to make that same old furniture look brand new, while protecting it from further damage, dirt and spills? The solution is simple: slipcovers.
Here are five reasons people are falling in love with slipcovers all over again and how your furniture could benefit:
1. Easy to Maintain
The No. 1 benefit of slip-covered furniture is that it is easy to maintain and clean. No more spot scrubbing pesky stains and waiting for the couch to dry before you can sit down again. Just unzip or pull the cover off and pop it into the washing machine.
A removable, washable layer on your sofa is not only practical, but it also promotes a healthier living environment. Bacteria, dust and other allergens the naked eye cannot see build up over time on your furniture. Regular washing of your slipcover can help prevent problematic allergens, lingering odors or other contaminants and leave you with a cleaner, healthier home.
2. They Protect Your Furniture
The most obvious function of a slipcover is to provide a protective layer. Using a slipcover can greatly extend the life span of your furniture.
By absorbing the impact of everyday use, a slipcover cuts back on the strain on your furniture’s fabric and shields against spills, stains and scratches. This helps your furniture maintain its quality for longer and last for years to come.
3. Protection from Pets
A slipcover can be an absolute gamechanger for pet owners. From shedding fur to scratching, hairballs and other accidents, your pets put your furniture to the test.
A slipcover saves you from pet-related damage, helping confine messes, scratches and tears to an easily washable cover.
4. Save Money
If something goes awry with your furniture, and you’re left worrying about permanent damage, a furniture cover can simply be replaced.
Rather than spending a lot on upholstery or a completely new piece of furniture, slipcovered styles are a more cost-effective option over time. And because slipcover prices are affordable, it’s easy to change the look of your home on a whim.
5. Give Your Room a New Look
A slipcover change is the fastest way to give a room a brand-new look. Whether you’ve been thinking of completely redesigning your space or just want to spruce the room up, slipcovers can transform your space with minimum effort.
Beyond just revamping your living space, slipcovers can help you set the mood for different seasons and decor. If you are going for a cozy vibe for fall, choose a slipcover with warm, earthy tones and soft textured fabric like velvet. If you’re looking for a brighter spring vibe, you could go with an eclectic pop of color.
With slipcovers you can easily swap out the color and fabric of your seating at any given time, adjusting for seasons, holidays or moods. This can keep your living space fresh and inviting year-round.
Whether you are looking to update old furniture, change your look seasonally or prevent stains and wear and tear, slipcovers can save your furniture and meet your needs.
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.
Slipcovers can give any room a whole new look.
Coldest Water Bottle, $26
Ditch the plastic and say hello to the last water bottle you will ever need.
This isn’t just any water bottle—it’s the coldest! Built with premium grade 18/8 stainless steel and interior vacuum insulation, the bottle traps the liquid inside the double walls and keeps it cold—or hot—all day. No matter the outdoor temperature, ice-cold water lasts up to 36 hours, and hot beverages stay hot for 13 hours.
Thoroughly tested against 50 leading brands on the market and with over 100,000 5-star reviews, this water bottle truly lives up to its name.
Bacteria-resistant and BPA-free, the bottle holds up to 21 ounces of liquid. It features a 100% leak-free cap and has a specialized handle on the lid with extraordinary grip. It can easily be attached to a bag and is available in a variety of colors and fun designs.
So, whether you bring it along to the gym for your next workout or on your next adventure, the coldest bottle is the perfect choice for on-the-go hydration.
kokada.com Coldest.com
Kokada Coconut Spread, $11.99
Enjoy the naturally sweet, coconutty goodness of Kokada. This yummy coconut spread makes a better-for-you treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. It is great for snacking, easy breakfasts and desserts.
Kokada Coconut Spread is available in its original flavor and fan favorites like brownie, brownie crunch, cinnamon toast and mint chocolate.
Spread on top of toast, use as a dip for fruits, crackers and pretzels, or mix it into smoothies. You can lick it right off the spoon, drizzle it on top of ice cream or use it as a natural sweetener for baking. The possibilities are endless.
Not only is Kokada delicious, but it fuels
your body with simple, organic ingredients sourced directly from the farmer.
This product is peanut-free, vegan and free of refined sugars. There is no other spread like it in the United States.
This two-time Good Housekeeping Snack award winner uses coconut treacle (coconut sap) as a healthier alternative to refined sugar. It is ideal for those trying to avoid sugar spikes, such as parents of young children or those who have diabetes. This first-of-its-kind spread is the perfect alternative for those with nut allergies.
This healthy, delicious snack can be found at Harris Teeter, Wegmans, Sprouts, Mom’s Organic Market and more.
Be Mine Sidewalk Chalk, $18
Grab the new Be Mine sidewalk chalk from Twee for your little sweetheart this Valentine’s Day. These chalk sets make the perfect art tools for little hands and can be used on any surface with a little grit, such as sidewalks and driveways made of asphalt or concrete.
All Twee products are designed to encourage creative play—aiding child development by increasing grip strength and fine motor skills.
Former preschool teacher and artist Kate Leibrand made her first batch of handmade doughnut-shaped chalk for her preschool students. The parents and children at her school loved these cute chalk designs so much that Kate began experimenting with other fun shapes, and it wasn’t long before Twee was born.
From food items such as macaroons, doughnuts and sushi to magical unicorn horns, gemstones, planets, stars and even numbers and letters—there is an endless supply of fun, educational objects to choose from.
Her handmade lines of sidewalk chalk and veggie paints are made with ecofriendly ingredients that meet American Society for Testing and Materials standards. Even the glitter and packaging are fully biodegradable.
These products are sold in Nordstrom, Barnes and Noble, Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn and more. Make sure to share your creations and tag TWEE @TweeMade #beallyouwanttoTWEE.
tweemade.com
To the Moon and Beyond
By Judy Garrison
Men in white lab coats skirt around the Davidson Center of Space Exploration at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
From scientists and engineers to military retirees, the emeritus docents at the facility in Huntsville, Alabama, are anxious to share with everyone their frontline contributions to some of humankind’s greatest achievements.
Charlie Johnson is one such docent. Hands outstretched, he welcomes Len Garrison to his cosmic man cave. Len is ready to spend three days at the Adult Space Academy, where adults who have always dreamed of space can experience a hands-on, simulated space mission.
“Such a pleasure,” Len says as he shakes Charlie’s hand. “What did you do here?”
Without hesitation, Charlie takes Len and walks underneath the massive Saturn V
rocket. He points up to the hydraulic system above the rocket motor.
In 1961, when President John F. Kennedy challenged Wernher von Braun and his team at NASA to figure out a way to send a man to the moon, it was Charlie—then a 31-year-old former Army pilot who had served in Korea—who worked with about 200 engineers to figure it out.
The rocket team, together since 1950, arrived at the Redstone facility in Huntsville
and proposed a guided missile center. They went on to create some of the world’s first rockets to orbit the Earth and created the Saturn V rocket that sent the Apollo astronauts to the moon.
“Von Braun had an open-door policy,” Charlie says. “He said, ‘Fellows, I don’t know how to do this, but get together and share backgrounds until you come up with an idea that will work.’ We had at least 100 stupid ideas. He knew how to get the best of what we knew.”
Of his contribution, Charlie says, “I didn’t have a clue it would work.”
Today, myriad docents spend hours daily with the visitors at Davidson Center, talking about how they enabled a man to land on the moon.
To Infinity and Beyond
“I was the kind of kid that drank Tang because the astronauts did,” says Len, a child of the 1960s. “I remember sitting in front of the black-and-white TV set alongside my dad, being glued to broadcasts of rockets blasting toward space. Heroes were right in the middle of my living room.”
Len recalls how it seemed as though the space program was always an important part of life. Getting to the moon was something to be conquered, and the United States was in a race with the Soviet Union.
“Even the school curriculum was heavy in math and science,” he says. “They were building the next generation of astronauts and engineers. Every kid wanted to be an astronaut.”
Standing underneath the Saturn V rocket, it was easy for Len to remember the little boy with big aspirations.
“My first taste of NASA was the Kennedy Space Center launch pad,” he says. “All that was just plumbing. Here you see the vehicle— every little piece, every system. You can walk from one end to the other. You begin to understand the daunting task of making it all work together perfectly, every time.”
Dressed in his royal blue space suit, Len trained on the multi-axis trainer, simulating spacecraft tumble and tried the one-sixth gravity chair to experience what it’s like to walk on the moon. He took a simulated mission to Mars and placed solar panels on
its surface.
With a team, he performed spacewalks in an iconic white suit and secured successful liftoff and landings.
At the end of camp, when Len’s badge was flipped upright—it remains upside down until the program is completed—pride radiated from a man who experienced only a taste of the impossible.
Most of the children and young adults who go through the program in Huntsville are considered to be part of the Mars generation—the people who will one day walk on Mars.
As for the adults, many are reliving a dream that was shaped during their childhoods: the pride of putting a man on the moon.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center is at One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama. The center is open seven days a week. Visit rocketcenter.com for
Camp Details
U.S. Space and Rocket Center offers Camp programs for ages 9-11, 12-14, 15-18, and 19 and older.
OPPOSITE: As
Weeklong camps run throughout the year and include Space Camp, Space Academy, Advanced Space Academy, Aviation Challenge, Robotics Academy, Adult Space Academy and Space Academy for Educators. Scholarships are available. Visit spacecamp.com for more information.
TOP: As pilot of the simulated mission, Len Garrison reads through the checklist and keys in sequences before liftoff. PHOTO BY MARK PEAVY PHOTOGRAPHY
RIGHT: The Saturn V rocket sits inside the Davidson Center. PHOTO BY LEN GARRISON, SEEING SOUTHERN
Len and his co-pilot take turns assembling a giant solar panel upon landing on Mars, he remains harnessed which simulates Mars gravity. PHOTO BY MARK PEAVY PHOTOGRAPHY
Three Days in Durham
Arrive hungry and curious to thoroughly enjoy a weekend in one of the South’s most charming historic cities
By Robin Howard
Since its incorporation in 1869, Durham, North Carolina, has grown from a sleepy village of 100 people to one of the Southeast’s most innovative and eclectic cities.
With deep roots in tobacco and banking, Durham’s turn-of-the-century wealth eventually attracted other industries, including technology, pharmaceuticals, medicine and educational institutions, including Duke University and North Carolina Central University.
Today, the city’s tobacco-era buildings have been restored and converted into retail and social spaces, and there is a strong sense of community. Durham has a long civil rights and social justice activism history and supports a vibrant, active Black community, including more than 200 Black-owned businesses.
Durham is a 2 1/2-hour drive from Dillon and Marlboro counties. With so much to see and do, it’s worth a weekend visit.
Where to Stay
Durham has options for every price range, from four-star luxury hotels to quaint bed-and-breakfasts and economy accommodations. With legendary hospitality and food, Morehead Manor—a century-old mansion in the Morehead Hill neighborhood—is an affordable choice within walking distance of most of Durham’s top eateries and attractions.
If you’re looking for spacious rooms and expansive front porches for reading or people-watching, Old North Durham Inn is a cozy, historic home close to the action.
Art lovers may enjoy a stay at 21c Museum Hotel, a 125-room boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Durham. Housed in a historic art deco building—formerly a bank—the hotel is also a contemporary art museum with more than 10,000 square feet of exhibition space. The hotel's accessible rooms feature visual doorbells and strobe alarm clocks for the deaf or hard-of-hearing and roll-in showers and height-adjusted surfaces for those who need them.
Durham’s budget-friendly options, including highly rated Hyatt Place and Hilton Garden Inn, are comfortable and well-located.
What to Do
Social justice is a hot topic in Durham, and there’s no better place to start your visit than the new Pauli Murray Center.
The late Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray, now the 11th woman featured on the back of a quarter, was the first Black female in the United States to become an Episcopal priest. Murray was a civil rights activist, advocate, scholar, author and poet. The center is in her childhood home and has been designated a National Treasure and National Historic Landmark.
If sip-and-stroll sounds like your idea
of fun, head to the American Tobacco Campus. Twenty years ago, the city of Durham began transforming the former American Tobacco factory into a mixeduse space that includes restaurants and cocktail bars, including Ment Beverage Co., a 3,000-square-foot tasting room for unique alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages that you can take with you as you wander the social district.
Durham’s Museum of Life + Science is a must-see for children and curious adults. With an 84-acre interactive science park, the museum is home to one of the
largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast. The outdoor space is also a haven for rescued lemurs, red wolves and black bears.
The museum approaches learning through play. Guests may spend hours exploring interactive activities such as boat building, digging for fossils and learning about space travel.
Broadway fans, rejoice. The beautiful Durham Performing Arts Center hosts touring Broadway productions, concerts, dance performances, comedy and more. With more than 200 shows a year, you can enjoy big-city events without the lines or crowds.
From March to September, sports fans can cheer on the Durham Bulls—the city’s beloved minor league baseball team—at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The park is designed to evoke the nostalgia of oldtime baseball parks and features a manual scoreboard.
Art lovers may enjoy a trip to Duke University’s campus to visit Nasher Museum of Art. The collection contains some of the country’s best contemporary art, focusing on work by artists of
LEFT: 21c Museum Hotel welcomes visitors with eclectic art in its lobby bar. ABOVE: Ekhaya's dining experience caters to all five senses.
African descent and those who have been historically underrepresented.
Where to Eat and Drink
When visiting Durham, come hungry and open-minded because this booming food scene is an amalgam of cultures and flavors. New for 2024 is Seraphine, where the chef recreates New Orleans Cajun cuisine. Also new is Ekhaya, a sister restaurant to the country’s first Zimbabwean restaurant, Zweli’s. Ehkaya offers tempting small plates and traditional entrees, many of which are vegan.
For an aperitif or nightcap, visit Durham Distillery, a woman-owned operation that evokes the golden age of martinis. Don’t miss the opportunity for a social media post from the hilariously named Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge.
In the lovely Brightleaf neighborhood, Goorsha offers traditional Ethiopian snacks and entrees with lyrical names such as Timatim Fitfit, Anzifa, Kitfo and Zilbo. In the Old East Durham neighborhood, Proximity Brewing—Durham’s first Blackowned brewery—has an indoor bar and lounge and a spacious outdoor patio that
shares space with Mike D’s, an awardwinning Black-owned barbecue joint; and Congress, a Black- and woman-owned café and bar.
Those looking for a swanky or romantic dinner should make a reservation at Nanas. This iconic restaurant closed during the pandemic but recently reopened with a new look.
Events and Festivals to Enjoy
Hosted by the Black Brew Culture group in Durham Bottling Co., Blacktoberfest— held mid-October—is a community beer festival dedicated to creating a new narrative in craft beer while celebrating Black culture. Last year’s Blacktoberfest featured original recipes and collaborations from 12 Black-owned breweries, food pairings and a vendor market.
Every year, the Hayti Heritage Film Festival is the first week of March and focuses on the efforts and creativity of Black crew and filmmakers. In addition to an incredible lineup of films, the festival hosts a food truck roundup and plenty of popcorn. n
ABOVE: The Hayti Heritage Film Festival is held in Durham the first week of March. RIGHT: Annual holiday festivities start with the Lucky Strike Water Tower Lighting at American Tobacco Campus. A festive procession leads celebrants to CCB Plaza for downtown Durham’s tree-lighting celebration.
Who Owns What?
Electric Co-op Owned Equipment vs Member-Owned Equipment
This graphic depicts equipment owned by the co-op (in gold) and the member (in blue). If a storm damages any equipment owned by the co-op, we are responsible for repairs. If a storm damages any member-owned equipment, the member is responsible for repairs. Members should hire a licensed electrician when making any repairs to member-owned equipment.