2024-06-EU

Discover North Carolina’s NEW Moonshine and Motorsports Trail and experience our state’s history of perseverance and innovation like never before.

(ISSN 0008-6746) (USPS 832800) Volume 56, No. 6

Published monthly by

3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950

Scott Gates, CCC Editor

Warren Kessler Creative Director

Renee C. Gannon, CCC Senior Associate Editor

Rue Reynold Editorial Assistant

Jessica Armstrong Graphic Designer

Tara Verna Creative Services Associate

Donna Natosi Digital Strategist

Keith Alexander Advertising Keith@carolinacountry.com

Joseph P. Brannan Executive Vice President & CEO

Nelle Hotchkiss Senior Vice President & COO

Kristie Aldridge, CCC Vice President

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to 1 million homes and businesses. The 26 electric cooperatives are each member-owned, notfor-profit and overseen by a board of directors elected by the membership.

Why Do We Send You Carolina Country Magazine? Your cooperative sends you Carolina Country as a convenient, economical way to share with its members information about services, director elections, meetings and management decisions. The magazine also carries legal notices that otherwise would be published in other media at greater cost.

Your co-op’s board of directors authorizes a subscription to Carolina Country on behalf of the membership at a cost of less than $5 per year.

Subscriptions: Individual subscriptions, $12 per year. Schools, libraries, $6.

Carolina Country is available on digital cartridge as a courtesy of volunteer services at the NC Department of Cultural Resources, Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, Raleigh, NC 888-388-2460.

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8

Remembering D-Day

North Carolinians commemorate 80 years since the Allied invasion of Normandy. 12

Carolina Voices

What do you love about Carolina beaches? 20

The Keeper of Pea Island

Richard Etheridge and his historic life-saving station 22

Bounty of the Sea

Recipes from ‘Mariner’s Menu’ courtesy of NC Sea Grant.

“From early childhood, Carolina beaches have been a vital part of my life. In the past couple of decades, we have landed at Oak Island, our favorite destination.”

Photo by Kim Milian, a member of Brunswick Electric. Read more about why readers love Carolina beaches on page 12.

Voices

We received so many great responses for this month’s Carolina Voices. Let’s do it again for our October issue! Learn more on page 29.

From Our Readers

Backstage Jamming

I just want to echo what Jessie Lang said in her excellent article, “Music to come home to” in the April issue (page 12), about the special sense of community “often nurtured through jams and sessions.” When I was participating in the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, then held in the Asheville City Auditorium, in the ’60s-early ’70s, performing on stage — often solo, sometimes with a group — it was enjoyable, though the real fun was jamming with others outside the backstage door and later in a shopping parking lot.

John Becton, Chapel Hill

A member of Piedmont Electric Cooperative

Sweet Memories

The February 2024 article of How We Met (“Where did you first meet your sweetie?” page 18) was wonderful. I hope you’ll do this each February.

Lorraine Cantori, Bath

Reader Poll Results

THIS MONTH: Our Carolina Coast

During the coming summer months, we’ll be taking some time to spotlight each of the three main regions in North Carolina and their unique charms. And what could be better for June than Eastern NC, with its fertile cropland, peaceful inlets and sounds, and pristine beaches? This month also marks the 80th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy, which has its own Eastern North Carolina connections. Everything starts on page 8, and don’t miss updates on how your co-op is collaborating with others in the state on page 6.

—Scott Gates, editor

Recipe Convert

The folks at Tideland Electric have been providing us with electricity for over 20 years down here just outside of Oriental. Over the years … this magazine has turned up the quality several notches. Hence the reason for my writing this note. In the May issue I came upon a recipe for a coffee-based rub (“Carolina Country Cook’n Coffee Rub,” page 22). I am normally very skittish of these “magazinecipes.” Having recently read about the use of coffee with venison, I thought I would give this rub a roll. The ham had been aged about 10 days in the refrigerator in 2022 and cut from the bones into pieces in October of 2023. A two-pound flank steak-style cut was used and prepared as a roast with vegetables in a 100-year-old cast iron “Chicken Fryer” with lid as in a Dutch oven, as per the recipe. It was “to die for” in my humble opinion! I will use this rub going forward on all lean pieces of anything — might even use it on collards and rutabagas!

Jim Kellenberger, Oriental, a member of Tideland EMC

We asked our social media followers a pressing question this time of year: What’s your favorite vacation destination? Here are the results. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X to participate in future polls.

“Love the beach in the summer, mountains in winter for Christmas.”

Stewart David

“I’m the opposite: Mountains in the summer and beach in the winter (saves fighting crowds that way).”

David Frederick

8%

Preserving Reliable Electricity for Our Communities

By Charlie Bayless

At the center of the Brighter Future vision shared among North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives is a commitment and responsibility to provide the state’s 2.5 million cooperative members with reliable electricity — and to do so at the lowest possible cost. Together, we also share a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and are working toward that goal at a responsible pace, incorporating new technologies and sustainable energy resources in ways that do not sacrifice reliability and affordability.

Pace is critical.

In April, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued rules restricting the operations of existing coal plants and new natural gas plants. These rules, which are designed to reduce carbon emissions, will force some plants to retire early and limit the number of hours others can operate. In making these new regulations, the EPA singularly focused on reducing carbon emissions without addressing the big picture — these new rules will sacrifice reliability and affordability.

In order to maintain reliability, electric utilities need to be able to operate within a regulatory framework that balances reliability, affordability and sustainability.

The EPA is willing to close power plants before reliable forms of alternative generation have been identified, requiring unproven technology like carbon capture, and is also willing to implement these changes in an accelerated timeframe, which raises costs without benefits to co-op members.

The good news for members of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives is that we are industry leaders in integrating new sustainable grid technologies. More than half of our energy already comes from emissions-free resources such as nuclear and renewables. Collectively, NC co-ops utilize more than 350 megawatts (MW) of renewables and operate 90 MW of batteries. Cooperatives also operate five microgrids throughout the state connected to

businesses and residential communities. Finally, cooperatives served by the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC) for all of their power requirements are planning to join a Duke Energy project to harness energy from a state-of-the-art, hydrogen-capable natural gas combined cycle generating plant, which will lower emissions in the state by replacing an older coal-fired power plant.

As a result of all of these efforts, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives’ fuel mix is 20% more carbon-free than the national average.*

Reliable electricity is what powers modern life. It has become the engine of the economy. In order to maintain reliability, electric utilities need to be able to operate within a regulatory framework that balances reliability, affordability and sustainability rather than focusing exclusively on one. This starts with integrating new and proven technologies into operations. Only once those technologies have been verified to work can we replace existing forms of generation — ensuring that new regulations will not adversely impact rural communities by increasing costs and decreasing reliability.

We’re working with national partners to push back against EPA’s rules. We will continue to work toward a sustainable future, but doing so while championing reliable, affordable power on behalf of our members.

Charlie Bayless is the general counsel for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

*The fuel mix utilized by NCEMC, the wholesale power supply arm for 20 of North Carolina’s electric distribution cooperatives, is more than 60% carbon-free, versus the national average of 40% as reported by the U.S. Department of Energy. Visit carolinacountry.com/ournetwork for more information about the co-ops served by NCEMC.

Eastern NCDiscovering

How Do You Carolina Country?

Whether on one of our state’s peaceful hiking trails, at a sightseeing destination or while enjoying local restaurants, there are countless ways to experience all that North Carolina has to offer. Share your favorites on Facebook, Instagram or X with the hashtag #HowDoYouCarolinaCountry Here is how one co-op employee enjoys Carolina country along the coast.

Eastern NC Electric Co-ops

Eastern North Carolina, or what’s east of I-95, is served by 14 electric cooperatives that bring power to more than 450,000 total members. Although the region’s beaches draw millions of visitors each year, the Inner Coastal Plain is rich in cultural, historical and culinary gems. Its soil and climate are also perfectly adapted for agriculture.

1. Albemarle EMC Headquarters: Hertford Members served: 12,800 Miles of line: 1,420

2. Brunswick Electric Headquarters: Supply Members served: 89,000 Miles of line: 6,742

3. Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative Headquarters: Buxton Members served: 7,400 Miles of line: 338

4. Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative Headquarters: Newport Members served: 39,700 Miles of line: 2,432

5. Edgecombe-Martin EMC Headquarters: Tarboro Members served: 11,300 Miles of line: 1,480

6. Four County EMC Headquarters: Burgaw Members served: 32,900 Miles of line: 5,075

7. Halifax EMC Headquarters: Enfield Members served: 11,700 Miles of line: 1,703

8. Jones-Onslow EMC Headquarters: Jacksonville Members served: 74,600 Miles of line: 2,441

9. Lumbee River EMC Headquarters: Red Springs Members served: 57,600 Miles of line: 5,793

10. Pitt & Greene EMC Headquarters: Farmville Members served: 8,700 Miles of line: 1,080

11. Roanoke Cooperative Headquarters: Aulander Members served: 14,000 Miles of line: 2,452

12. South River EMC Headquarters: Dunn Members served: 47,000 Miles of line: 4,786

13. Tideland EMC Headquarters: Pantego Members served: 23,000 Miles of line: 2,684

14. Tri-County EMC Headquarters: Dudley Members served: 24,000 Miles of line: 2,527

Co-op Leaders Discuss Reliability, Resiliency at Brighter Future Summit

More than 400 electric co-op leaders from across the state met in Raleigh in April for the 2024 Brighter Future Summit, the statewide annual meeting of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

Joe Brannan, executive vice president and CEO for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, opened the meeting by discussing how co-ops are collaborating on projects to address issues like power reliability and grid security in innovative ways.

“We’ll need to continue to evolve, leveraging technology that supports grid infrastructure as well as our Brighter Future vision,” Brannan said. “Most importantly, perhaps, we’ll need to leverage our greatest strength: the strength of our cooperative network, reflected in this room. It’s you and your staffs that make this work.”

Sessions also included a CEO panel discussion about grid resilience and reliability, featuring Wake Electric

Statewide Board Officers

Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Engineering & Operations

Don Bowman; South River EMC CEO & Executive Vice President Chris Spears; Tideland EMC General Manager & CEO Paul Spruill; and moderator Amadou Fall, senior vice president and COO of power supply for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative Executive Vice President and General Manager Susan Flythe addressed the group as board president of the

The following were elected to 2024–2025 board leadership positions:

NCEMC (power supply) Two-year terms seated in 2023: President: Susan Flythe, Cape Hatteras EC; Vice President: Greg Andress, Union Power Cooperative; Secretary-Treasurer: Josh Winslow, Brunswick Electric

NCAEC (co-op services) One-year terms seated in 2024: President: Dirk Burleson, Rutherford EMC; Vice President: Tammie Phillips, Randolph EMC; Secretary-Treasurer: Winston Howell, Edgecombe-Martin County EMC

TEMA (material supply) Incoming directors (three-year terms ending April 2027): District I: Eddie Oldham, Central EMC; District II: J. Michael Davis, Tri-County EMC; District III: John S. Spence, Albemarle EMC

Youth Leadership Scholarships

The North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives awards three scholarships each year to Youth Tour participants from the past year:

North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation, building on Brannan’s discussion of challenges facing electric utilities and co-ops’ accomplishments in overcoming them.

“Folks in this room are collectively making decisions that will affect people for generations to come,” she said. “I can’t think of a more talented group of people to lead us in developing and implementing reliable, affordable, and sustainable solutions. Our future is bright in North Carolina.”

Community Grants Available for Ag Projects

AgSouth Farm Credit is supporting non-profit organizations and farmers markets with grants of up to $5,000 to support the future of agriculture in the Carolinas and Georgia. Grant applications will be accepted until June 30. Grants will be awarded in November/December 2024, to be utilized during the 2025 calendar year. Visit bit.ly/AgSouthGrant for more information.

Aidan Stroud, representing Blue Ridge Energy, received the Gwyn B. Price Memorial Scholarship.

A’Mya Harmon, representing Roanoke Cooperative, received the Katie Bunch Memorial Scholarship.

Haley Dorsey, representing Blue Ridge Energy, received the Youth Leadership Council Scholarship.

In April, more than 75 leaders from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives met with congressional staffers in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Legislative Conference. Co-ops met with the staffs of 15 members of the NC congressional delegation   from the offices of 13 representatives and Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd.

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives focused on several key issues during meetings, including:

■ The importance of reliable electricity, which is vital to North Carolina’s economy, the nation’s economy as a whole and national security;

■ Opposition to EPA’s Power Plant Rule (see page 4);

■ Protecting U.S. Department of Agriculture funding for co-ops, including a 2022 voluntary grant and loan program designed for electric co-ops pursuing energy innovation;

■ Safeguarding rural electric infrastructure; and

■ Alleviating supply chain issues and lessening challenges in procuring grid components in a timely way at a reasonable price.

“These conversations came at a critical time, as electric co-ops here in North Carolina and across the country are facing an array of industry and policy challenges, including meeting the most fundamental expectations for reliable power,” said Sharla Wells, vice president of external affairs for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “Maintaining an open dialogue with policymakers is crucial, as our members of Congress look to co-op leaders as the pulse of the rural communities they serve.”

River

and North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives met with the office of Rep. David Rouzer.

Remembering

North Carolinians commemorate since the Allied invasion of Normandy

By Pamela A. Keene

n June 6, 1944, one of the largest military operations in a single day marked the turning point of World War II in Europe. With the cooperation of eight Allied nations, more than 7,000 ships and more than 156,000 military personnel landed in northern France on the beaches of Normandy.

It was D-Day, and George Sarros was there. As a Motor Machinist 3rd Class on LST 515 — a landing craft that could carry tanks — he saw the action up-close.

“We heard the battle wagons [heavily armored ships] pounding the beach with guns and could see the Higgins Boats with the guys going over the side as they rushed the

beach,” he remembers. A training exercise leading up to June 6 also resulted in casualties, as German torpedo boats attacked a group of LSTs along the English coast. George’s ship rescued survivors. “The Lord was with us, but we lost three of our ships. And I think about all of those sailors, just the ages that we were, who didn’t have a chance. I’m so grateful for [our] Captain [John] Doyle — he was a great captain.”

Every year on June 6, thousands of people from around the world gather on the beaches of Normandy to commemorate one of the most important events in modern history.

“The invasion of Normandy changed the course of the war, establishing a firm presence for the Allies in Europe, liberating France and pushing the Germans back,” says Wilbur D. Jones Jr., Capt. (Ret.) U.S. Navy, author and World War II historian in Wilmington. “Through months

Landing Ship, Tank (LST), or tank landing ships, were used to deliver vehicles directly onto beaches or at temporary ports like the one pictured here.

Listen to ninety-nine-year-old George Sarros share his D-Day story as a Motor Machinist 3rd Class on board an LST 515 at carolinacountry.com/extras

There are several museums to visit across the state to learn more about North Carolina’s role in World War II. Here are a few.

® Battleship North Carolina Wilmington | 910-399-9100 | battleshipnc.com

® Cape Fear Museum of History and Science Wilmington | 910-798-4370 nhcgov.com/548/Cape-Fear-Museum

® Gra veyard of the Atlantic Museum

Cape Hatteras National Seashore (reopening May 20, 2024) 252-986-0720 | graveyardoftheatlantic.com

® Military Hist ory Museum Blakeslee Air Force Recreation Area, Kure Beach 252-526-9600 | ncmilitaryhistoricalsociety.org

® National Montford Point Museum

Camp Johnson, Jacksonville (call for base access) 910-554-0808 | montfordpointmarines.org/Museum

® Edgecombe County Veteran’s Military Museum Tarboro | 252-823-0891 | edgecombevet.com

® 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum Fort Liberty | 910-436-1735 82ndairbornedivisionmuseum.com

® John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Museum Fort Liberty | 910-432-4272 | bit.ly/jfk-museum

® U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum Fayetteville | 910-643-2778 | asomf.org

® NC Museum of History Raleigh | 919-814-7000 | ncmuseumofhistory.org

® North Carolina Aviation Museum & Hall of Fame Asheboro | 336-625-0170 | ncamhof.com

® The Veterans Museum of the Carolinas Brevard | 828-884-2141 | theveteransmuseum.org

Janis Allen

George Sarros

George Sarros, then and now.

Matt Small

Digital Extras

of secretive planning, coded messages and strategic decisions, the Allies surprised the Germans and began the 12-week Battle of Normandy that would — 25 months later — eventually result in the defeat of Germany.”

Wilmington, designated the nation’s first World War II Heritage City on Sept. 2, 2020, holds several ways to pay tribute to D-Day and World War II: The Battleship USS North Carolina, permanently moored in Wilmington on the Cape Fear River; the Hannah Block Historic USO/ Community Center; and the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science.

“Although the Battleship North Carolina served in the Pacific Theater of the war, she stands to pay homage to the 11,081 North Carolinians who lost their lives in World War II,” says Dena Merlino Scott, marketing director of the Battleship North Carolina. “Many families visit the Battleship North Carolina to reconnect with those who died serving their country, not just around Memorial Day and D-Day, but throughout the year.”

Wilmington’s Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center downtown is one of only a handful of USO World War II buildings still standing across the U.S.

,,We heard the battle wagons pounding the beach with guns and could see the Higgins Boats with the guys going over the side as they rushed the beach. ,,

“When USO operations in Jacksonville, NC, were relocated to Camp Lejeune, the Jacksonville USO director donated the 1940’s World War II-era telephone booth to our USO building here,” Wilbur says. “Renovated to look just like it did in 1943, it’s the hub and keystone of the World War II history preservation activities in Southeastern NC with a World War II-lobby museum, a popular public venue and perfect blending of the arts and history.”

The Germans came much closer to American soil during World War II than people thought, attacking and sinking American supply ships and other vessels. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum documents many of the shipwrecks off the coast of North Carolina, including four German U-Boats that were sunk during World War II.

“One of the closest calls came when a German U-Boat fired three shots on the Ethyl-Dow Chemical Plant at Kure Beach,” Wilbur says. “Some people don’t believe that the Germans actually fired on the North Carolina coast, but there is an overwhelming amount of evidence that supports it, including displays in the North Carolina Military History Museum in Kure Beach.”

Now 89 years old, Wilbur was a 7-year-old living in Wilmington when war broke out. From an early age, history has fascinated him, and he’s made it his life work in retirement, authoring 20 history-related books, including eight about World War II.

“Every year the number of veterans who remain dwindles, and if we don’t keep these stories alive for future generations, people will forget,” he says. “Already D-Day has, for many people, become just another day on the calendar. Somehow, that can easily disregard all the sacrifices our veterans made to protect our freedom.”

When George Sarros, who celebrated his 99th birthday in April, looks back on those days 80 years ago, he is emotional.

“We were all just kids over there and we were so gung-ho and loved our country so much,” he says, his voice catching as he fights back tears. “We would have made any sacrifice necessary, including our own lives, for America.”

Then he pauses.

“That was a long time ago. That was history.”

Pamela A. Keene is a freelance journalist who writes for magazines and newspapers across the Southeast and nationally.

At least one North Carolinian will be going to Normandy, France, for the 80th D-Day Ceremony on June 6, 2024. At 98 years old, U.S. Army Col. Sam Kitchen (Ret.) will make the journey as part of “Veterans Back To Normandy,” a France-based organization that raises funds to bring American veterans to Normandy.

“This year, 12 veterans from across the U.S. will be traveling to Normandy with us for this important event,” says Roger Vickers, U.S. liaison for the group that was founded in 2012 by French national Valerie Gautier. “When we notified Sam that he would be going, he was at first speechless, then he said he couldn’t believe it.”

As a 16-year-old in 1943, Sam’s mother gave him permission to tell recruiters he was 17 because he was so determined to sign up. It was the start of a military career in the Marines and the Army that would take him to Okinawa and the Philippines during World War II, then to serve in Korea and Vietnam.

“Ever since I was a teen, I’ve wanted to visit the place where the paratroopers landed in Normandy right after midnight on June 6 for the start of the D-Day invasion,” says Sam, who lives in Cumberland County. “I’m finally realizing my life’s dream.”

US Coast Guard

Roger Vickers

What do you LOVE about

CAROLINA

Beaches?

The summer months are finally here, and for many, that means the ocean is calling. Way back in chilly February we asked readers to share stories and photos that describe what they love about our state’s beaches. Thank you for all of the great submissions—we’re now longing for the smell of a salty breeze! Here are some of our favorites.

Sanctuaries for the Soul

The enchantment of Carolina beaches is a tapestry of sensory delights and timeless memories, woven from the very essence of the sea and sand. There’s an ineffable aroma that greets you, a briny, life-affirming scent that awakens the senses in a profound embrace, unmatched by any other locale. It’s a fragrance that beckons the soul, inviting it to partake in the ocean’s age-old dance of ebb and flow.

Closing my eyes, the rhythmic symphony of waves rushing toward the shore transports me across the decades, erasing the years until I am twenty once more. Each crescendo of water against sand is a time machine, a gentle yet powerful reminder of youth’s eternal echo within us.

The tender caress of the water as it playfully nuzzles my toes with each advancing tide is a tactile sonnet, a

connection so intimate and rejuvenating that it defies the passage of time. And there, amidst this timeless ballet of nature, our little dog, Chelsea, despite her 18 years, dances at the water’s edge. Her joyous leaps and bounds against the frothy waves are a testament to the beach’s magical ability to renew, to inspire a jubilant zest for life akin to that of a puppy’s innocence.

Carolina beaches, with their symphonic waves, rejuvenating waters, and the ability to collapse the boundaries of time, are not just stretches of sand but sanctuaries for the soul, where every visit is a return to life’s most cherished moments.

Jimmy Smith, Youngsville, a member of Wake Electric

Frisco Beach on Hatteras Island. Kenneth Newman, a member of Cape Hatteras Electric

Seaside Adventures

I have a very clear memory of going to the beaches of North Carolina just about every year since my family moved here from Florida. We’ve stayed in many different places like the Outer Banks and Surf City, but no matter where we go the fun and beauty of the beach always seem to be present, ensuring a good time.

My family and I have climbed the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and have done tours to see Corolla’s wild horses and dolphins. We’ve also found a baby shark, horseshoe crabs and parts of a stingray skeleton; the excitement has never ceased to amaze me and pique my curiosity. I also love the mysterious stories that surround the beaches, like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse being haunted and the ghost of Edward Teach (Blackbeard) still looking for his head!

I cannot wait until the next time we decide to go, and I can once again see the warm, soft sand, roaring waves and make new memories.

Camryn

Hildebrand, age 13

A member of Wake Electric

Sunrise, Sunset

While there are plenty of things to love about our Carolina beaches, the things I admire the most are the morning sunrises and evening sunsets. The unique geographical orientation of our home near Emerald Isle, and the rest of the Crystal Coast, gives us a southern view of the ocean. This positioning affords us the opportunity to witness the sun peeking over the eastern horizon and dipping below the water to the west. Doing morning walks before work, or evening walks after dinner, my wife and I have the perfect, picturesque view of an orange glow reflecting off the dark blue water as it washes over the soft sand. Moments like those are hard to take for granted.

Jordan Waugh, Peletier

A member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

‘Life Couldn’t Have Been Better’

We had a wonderful time in late September/early October 2017 at the Outer Banks with my husband’s family. I’ve always loved lighthouses and horses, and we were able to see both, blessed with pretty weather! The Spanish mustangs were beautiful with a backdrop of the shore and ocean waves splashing the white foam. It was a trip I’ll never forget.

We ate, talked, played fun group games, shopped, walked up and down the shore in front of our ocean front rental, smelled the fresh ocean air, enjoyed seafood, watched the dolphins jump, and little crabs running up and down the sand. Life couldn’t have been better, except for when the little dog, Molly, got into sand spurs, but thankfully I had a pair of scissors with me to help cut them out of her fur.

[And something special happened] … my sweet fatherin-law, Dan, who is now in Heaven, said: “There’s 10 of us,” every time we sat down at the large table to pray blessings over the meal.

Karen Gilliam, Morganton, a member of Rutherford EMC

Endless Canvas

Fiery sunsets, foggy days, shelling, fishing, wildlife and creamy sand under my feet are only a few things I love about Carolina beaches. But what I love best is the huge canvas the flat shore presents, beckoning to me. While carving mandala designs with the end of a PVC pole holder, with the constant wash of the waves over the shore, I’m transcended to a place of Zen in my mind.

THE COVER

Boundless Joy

From early childhood, Carolina beaches have been a vital part of my life. I began visiting Carolina Beach for family beach week (much different in the 1960s than the Carolina Beach of today). Britt’s donuts, still a beloved institution, is a cherished memory.

As teenagers in the 1970s, we would often make a day trip from Raleigh to Atlantic Beach. Emerald Isle became more of a destination in the young adult years, including numerous church group trips.

In the past couple of decades, we have landed at Oak Island, our favorite destination, and the place we bought a vacation home in 2022. The lighthouse, access to both sunrises and sunsets as a southern-facing beach … shops, restaurants and watering holes all provide boundless joy.

Kim Milian, Raleigh, a member of Brunswick Electric

Veronica Krug, Emerald Isle A member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative

Illuminating the Night Experience the magic of fireflies

By Rue Reynold

As the warmth of June envelopes North Carolina, a whimsical spectacle unfolds under the cover of darkness. Amid the lush foliage and marshy landscapes, the enchanting dance of fireflies illuminates the night, weaving a tapestry of light that captivates both young and old.

The science behind the glow Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are beetles that produce a mesmerizing glow through a process called bioluminescence. This natural occurrence happens when a chemical reaction takes place within specialized cells in their abdomen, producing light without heat. The purpose of this luminous display varies among species, with some using it to attract mates, while others utilize it as a warning signal.

Folklore and cultural significance

Fireflies can be found on every continent but Antarctica, and for centuries they have captured the imaginations of cultures worldwide, inspiring folklore and legends that celebrate their mystical allure. Every year, Japan holds Hotaru Matsuri, the Firefly Festival, where fireflies symbolize the transient nature of life and the arrival of summer. Japanese folklore tells of fireflies being the souls of samurai, while Chinese folklore depicts the lightning bugs as the souls of lovers separated by death.

In Europe, especially in countries like Italy and Spain, fireflies have long been associated with romance. Italian poets have often used fireflies as

metaphors for the flicker of new love. They also often symbolize hope and the ephemeral nature of beauty. Native American cultures also have rich folklore surrounding fireflies. Some tribes believe fireflies carry the spirits of the dead, while others see them as bringers of light and wisdom.

Where to view in North Carolina North Carolina is home to several species of fireflies, each with its own preferred habitat.

■ MOUNTAIN: Fireflies thrive in the cool, moist environments of the mountains, such as forests and meadows. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest are filled with lightning bugs during the summer months. The Elkmont area is famous for its synchronous fireflies, which flash in unison, creating a breathtaking natural light show.

■ PIEDMONT: In the piedmont, fireflies prosper in grasslands, fields and wooded areas. Parks such as Umstead State Park and Jordan Lake State Recreation Area provide perfect habitats for fireflies to light up the night and set you in a dream world.

■ COAST: Fireflies can be found in abundance in the coastal plains, marshlands, forests, coastal dunes and along waterways. Places like Merchants Millpond State Park and Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge will make you feel like you’re living in a fairytale.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country.

Firefly Facts

1. There are over 2,000 species of fireflies worldwide, with 30 to 40 species found in North Carolina.

2. The flash patterns of fireflies vary between species, with some emitting continuous glows, while others display synchronized flashing.

3. Fireflies are declining in number due to habitat loss, light pollution and pesticide use, making it more important than ever to appreciate and conserve these fascinating creatures.

Say Goodbye to Insomnia

Six tips to improve your sleep quality.

From consistent exercise to eating healthy and even daily journaling, it may seem like all your priorities are in order, but without sleep, you won’t be able to reap the full benefits of your hard work. Here are several tips to help improve your sleep quality so you can achieve your goals.

Morning movement and light exposure

Whether you’re a yogi or prefer a simple stretch when your feet hit the floor, movement and light during the day can help stimulate quality sleep later that night.

Bedroom sanctuary

Keep the room dark, noise-free and comfortable with the thermostat set to 65–67 degrees for better sleep conditions.

Sleep gains equal gym gains

Morning workout warriors should schedule earlier bedtimes to ensure 7–8 hours of sleep. For evening workouts, aim to end your session as early in the evening as possible — too much physical activity before bed can keep you up at night.

10-3-2-1-0 method

Decrease caffeine intake at least 10 hours before bed and then avoid eating bothersome foods 3 hours beforehand. Engage in relaxing activities at the 2-hour mark and cut out screentime with 1 hour to spare. These habits can lead to zero times of needing to hit the snooze button.

Nightly rituals

Create nightly rituals that activate circadian rhythms and allow your body to unwind. Consider activities that relax you the most, such as taking a bath, reading a book, journaling or sipping decaffeinated nighttime tea.

Drug-free sleep aid

If you still occasionally struggle to fall or stay asleep, try a low-milligram melatonin supplement. They are designed to help you get quality sleep and wake up refreshed.

For more ways to improve sleep habits, visit Natrol.com.

—Family Features

Co-op

20 23

Welcome to the 2023 Annual Report! This document is a collection of the cooperative’s successes, challenges and so much more. In the pages that follow you will find that we are looking at 2023 through the lens of Neighbors Helping Neighbors not just because it’s a nice sentiment, but because it is at the core of our identity.

As a member-owned cooperative, you are a fundamental part of who we are. We support neighbors in need thanks to the generosity of members rounding up their bills through Operation Round-Up; we support the community through EnergyUnited Foundation grants that are voted on by the EnergyUnited Foundation Board; and perhaps most importantly, we provide 99.9% reliable, affordable energy across our territory through the hard work of our employees. Whether it is sharing the same planet or living next door, we value the strength of Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

We’re thankful to be a part of your neighborhood.

WHO IS EU?

OUR CORE VALUES

These principles have helped define who we are, not only as an energy services provider but also as a community leader. It’s a tradition over eight decades strong, and one we take great pride in continuing.

SAFETY INTEGRITY

To keep our employees, members and communities safe, we operate with safety protocols to protect the good of all involved. It’s first on our list because it’s the foundation of our co-op and our community.

We trust each other and make decisions affecting all aspects of our business through a collaborative effort. Full cooperation to support these efforts is expected. It’s a different approach to business and one that we will always live by.

COMMITMENT

We are dedicated to our members, employees, communities and to ourselves. We do what we say we will do and maintain our tradition of citizenship and service with actions that demonstrate care for the people we serve.

EXCELLENCE

We continually strive to improve our products and services so that we all can prosper both as individuals and as a corporation.

EnergyUnited is a member-owned business committed to delivering reliable energy services at competitive prices.

OUR MISSION: OUR VISION:

To empower our people to serve our members and communities, to enhance their lives by providing safe, affordable, reliable and sustainable energy services.

OUR PURPOSE:

To improve the quality of life for our members, customers and communities.

FROM THE CEO & PRESIDENT

THOMAS GOLDEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

DR. MAX WALSER PRESIDENT

As a member-owned cooperative, our annual reports tend to look slightly different than those of larger publicly traded or Fortune 500 companies. Where corporations may lean toward answering to their shareholders, we, quite simply, answer to you. It’s one of the things that sets us apart as a cooperative and is the basis of the theme for this year’s report: Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

In settling on this theme, we kept coming back to the same question: “What are the ways in which we, as a cooperative, act as good neighbors?” With that in mind, you’ll notice that the structuring of this year’s annual report asks that question with scale in mind. We’re a good global neighbor by supporting largescale initiatives to more positively impact the earth’s environment; we’re proud to be a regional neighbor and work with statewide initiatives to support our educators and students; and locally, we work hard to energize the homes, businesses and technologies that our members use every day. After all, a neighbor doesn’t always have to mean the folks you live next door to – it can mean the community of all of us, striving for a better

tomorrow by starting with actions we make today. We had several wins last year, one of which was being named a Top Workplace by the Charlotte Observer –and while that speaks to our internal culture it also reflects the commitment, joy and love we put into being your local connection.

Additionally, we are proud to report that our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship has remained a top priority. Through our collaborative initiatives and programs, we have been able to expand our renewable energy portfolio. We are able to offer renewable energy to more members, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all. Renewable energy efforts do not contribute to any increase in cost and are only chosen when they are reliable, affordable, safe and sustainable for the cooperative and our members. You may have noticed that we rolled out a new digital publication to reflect this for 2023, our Cooperative Responsibility and Sustainability Report. After all, sustainability isn’t just about making eco-friendly strides toward the future, it’s also about what works best for the longevity and well-being of our communities.

PRESIDENT

As your local connection and energy provider, we care greatly about the communities we support. We look for ways to support our students and educators with grants and scholarships, technologies and innovations we offer, and the 99.9% reliable energy we provide to keep your Every Day Empowered. Within this year’s annual report you can also expect to find several focus areas and generous financial donations that have gone to support our communities. All donations come from Operation Round-Up wh ere our members round up their bills to help neighbors in need – thank you all for your generosity. In 2023, the EnergyUnited Foundation donated over $900,000 to support individuals, families and nonprofit organizations. As a community-focused organization of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, the EnergyUnited Foundation understands the meaningful impact of every dollar awarded for community support. We rely on our Foundation board, made up of community volunteers, to steer the direction of these grants.

As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful for the continued support and trust you have placed in us as your energy provider. It is your commitment that drives us to excel and innovate, and we are proud to share with you the positive achievements we have reached together. Our dedication to innovation and technology has also been a driving force behind our success. Last year, we launched several new initiatives aimed at improving the member experience and increasing operational efficiency, which you will read about in this

year’s report. These efforts have enabled us to better serve you, our members, and position EnergyUnited as a leader in the energy industry.

Looking toward the future, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. As always, we remain committed to our mission of providing safe and sustainable energy to our members, and we will continue to invest in technology and infrastructure to meet your evolving needs. We want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support of EnergyUnited. It is because of you that our jobs carry as much meaning as they do and that our communities are as empowering as they are. In other words, we are thankful to be your neighbor.

Sincerely,

THOMAS GOLDEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

DR. MAX WALSER PRESIDENT

LEADERSHIP

OUR EXECUTIVE TEAM, BOARD OF DIRECTORS & DISTRICT MAP

EXECUTIVE TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THOMAS GOLDEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

BRETT ALKINS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

PAM BRITT

CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER

ALEC NATT

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

RYAN GARDNER

VICE PRESIDENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

STEVEN MCCACHERN

VICE PRESIDENT OF ENERGY DELIVERY

LAQUISHA PARKS

VICE PRESIDENT OF ENERGY SERVICES & CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS

DR. MAX WALSER

CHERYL WRIGHT

SAFETY

OUR TOP PRIORITY

We have shaped our cooperative culture around The EnergyUnited Way – a collection of principles that helps us be the best that we can be. They are:

BE SAFE THE

ENERGYUNITED WAY

SAFETY BY THE NUMBERS

In 2023, our line crew and employees:

Worked 476,598 hours

Completed over 40 safety training topics (97% of employees)

BE SECURE BE PRESENT BE MEMBER-FOCUSED

Conducted 6,585 job briefings via the Federated Safe App

Conducted 896 trainings through the new EHS Insight job briefing form

Made 160 "Good Catches"

The “Good Catch” program is an internal initiative encouraging the EnergyUnited team to watch for potentially hazardous situations in our communities. Last year, we reported 160 “Good Catches” within our service areas that could have otherwise resulted in an injury, equipment damage or a vehicle event. These shared learnings help spread awareness of potential dangers and the methods to avoid them.

ENERGY DELIVERY

MODERN TOWNS, INNOVATIVE

COMMUNITIES

It takes a lot of work to ensure 99.9% reliability across our 19 counties. We enjoy the work and love to keep our members empowered. Our Energy Delivery team plays a critical role in the cooperative’s efforts to provide safe, reliable power. Take a look below at the progress we continue to make in this mission, by the numbers.

99.9% RELIABILITY

7,566

200 4,1647

140,16011,730 58.5

Most days, our reliability rating is 99.975% but even when extreme weather impacts our service area, our rating still remains high at 99.958%. Additionally, in 2023 we increased capacity in two substations to better serve our membership.

Our distribution design team plays a critical role in ensuring our members receive reliable energy each day.

624.5 MEGAWATTS

Our grid peaked on July 28 in 2023 and reached over 624 megawatts of power. Want to learn how to avoid peak usage times? Read more on the next page.

DELIVERY

OUR DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAMS

Fortunately, we have two programs - Beat the Peak and Peak Time Perkswhich will help you save money by decreasing your power usage and in turn will help the cooperative better manage costs by limiting how much power we purchase during the peak. Learn more about these programs by scanning the QR code below.

FINANCIAL

CORPORATE PROFILE BY THE NUMBERS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

COSTS BREAKDOWN

SUSTAINABILITY

GOOD GLOBAL NEIGHBORS

EnergyUnited is committed to supporting sustainable initiatives that prioritize environmental stewardship, community engagement and democratic governance. Each of these pillars is closely connected to the overall health of the communities we serve. We recently outlined these initiatives in our Cooperative Responsibility and Sustainability Report.

The publication is 100% digital and includes our Environmental, Governance and Community “wins” across our 19 counties. If you have not yet checked it out, please scan the QR code to learn more about all we accomplished in 2023.

2023

CRSR REPORT

EnergyUnited hosted its second annual ride-and-drive electric vehicle (EV) event, Driving Change, on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Career Academy and Technical School in Troutman. Driving Change was organized in conjunction with National Drive Electric Week to share educational resources for prospective EV owners and to increase awareness of the unique experiences associated with EV ownership. EV owners registered for the event and were on-site to share their thoughts and experiences. In addition to these EV owners, many industry stakeholders and vendors also attended the event.

SUSTAINABILITY

ENERGY SUPPLY MIX

NATURAL GAS – 59.8%

Natural gas is an economical generation resource that emits less carbon dioxide in comparison to coal. Additionally, natural gas is available on demand, 24/7, making it a reliable energy source for members.

Nuclear power reactors do not produce any carbon emissions, which offers a huge advantage over more traditional energy sources. Plus, nuclear energy is incredibly reliable and has the ability to produce energy nonstop.

Coal is a highly abundant and affordable energy resource, but it also has a greater environmental impact. Coal accounts for roughly a quarter of all energy-related carbon emissions, which is why we plan to phase out our use of coal within the next few years.

RENEWABLES – 2.5%

There are many environmental and economic benefits of using renewable energy, such as generating energy that produces no greenhouse gas emissions, reducing air pollution, diversifying energy supply and minimizing dependence on imported fuels.

ENERGIZED

NEW GROWTH FOR OUR 19 COUNTIES

DEVELOPING WITH THE HELP OF RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN & GRANT (REDLG)

Cooperatives like EnergyUnited use REDLG funds provided by USDA Rural Development to help finance business start-up costs, expansion projects, community development initiatives and more. This program contains two funding opportunities, known separately as the REDLoan and REDGrant programs. Under the REDGrant program, the USDA provides grants to telephone or electric cooperatives to establish a revolving loan fund to finance projects that support community development.

EnergyUnited applies for and works with companies to help facilitate their business growth. We are proud of the effort we put toward the economic growth of our communities and helped support two large initiatives in 2023.

NC I-85 BUSINESS PARK

EnergyUnited requested two $2 million USDA Rural Economic Development (RED) Loans (totaling $4 million), which went to the Samet Corporation and the City of Lexington as two separate 10-year zero-interest loans. The funds were requested to be used to upgrade the water and sewer lines in the 763-acre site known as the Davidson County Corporate Park.

DAVIE INDUSTRIAL CENTER

We also applied for and received a $1.5 million REDLoan, which was provided to Commercial Realty Advisors as a 10-year zero-interest loan. The funds are going toward constructing a 500,000-square-foot commercial building within Davie Industrial Center, a 70-acre industrial park located in Davie County.

The industrial park complex will be located on approximately 70 acres of undeveloped land currently zoned for commercial development outside of the Mocksville town limits. The industrial park has a premiere location within Central North Carolina. It is within 30 miles of four additional interstates and is situated between the Triad and Charlotte metropolitan areas, which represent the two largest industrial markets in North Carolina, making this a prime location for business and company sites.

ECONOMY

We’re thrilled to empower new business opportunities that have come to our service area such as:

NC Commerce Center

At over 700,000 square feet, this site will usher in new business and job opportunities within Mooresville.

NC 40/77 Park

This Statesville project is being constructed on behalf of NorthPoint Development. The park is expected to include five buildings totaling 3.85 million square feet of industrial space upon full buildout.

Beltway 77 Project

At over 800,000 square feet, the Beltway 77 Project in Huntersville, is ushering in a multiphase, core industrial development located in Charlotte’s booming I-77 North submarket.

COMMUNITY

GREAT CORPORATE CITIZENS AND NEIGHBORS

Last year, the co-op continued to champion the community with several programs. The Bright Ideas grant program funded more than 30 educators across our service area to support innovative, classroom-based projects. We were proud to grant nearly $50,000 to local K-12 teachers.

In 2023, we awarded Elleigh Williams and Yajat Govardhan Empowering the Future scholarships. Each received $5,000 toward their education at NC State and the University of Detroit Mercy, respectively.

In addition to our Bright Ideas and Empowering the Future programs, we also selected two students to send to Washington, DC, as part of the Electric Cooperative . This opportunity allows students to learn more about the cooperative model within the context of national policy. Lastly, the cooperative was pleased to send two middle school students to Sports Camp at Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp at NC State and Carolina Basketball Camp at UNC-Chapel Hill.

The EnergyUnited Foundation was established over 25 years ago to serve as a critical resource for the community. Whether individuals have fallen on hard times or simply need some extra support, the Foundation understands the meaningful impact of every dollar awarded to individuals, families and nonprofit organizations, because that’s just what you do for your neighbors in need.

A RECORD YEAR OF GIVING

The EnergyUnited Foundation celebrated a record year of giving in 2023 with more than $900,000 in grants to individuals, families and nonprofit organizations. We are proud to support our communities in such a powerful way and owe it to you, our members, for generously rounding up your bills so that we can continue to support our communities.

IT & MEMBER

MEMBER-FOCUSED SUPPORT

As your local connection, we are much more than your energy services provider. We are a people-first organization that focuses on empowering employees to best serve our members. Over the past five years, the cooperative has experienced significant growth, expanding its workforce from 199 to 260 employees, and we’ve adjusted our practices to serve you even better.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

In 2023, EnergyUnited partnered with vendors to responsibly dispose of end-of-life equipment and electronic waste. We also promoted the reuse and refurbishment of IT equipment whenever possible to extend product life cycle and reduce waste.

Last year, the IT department achieved the following:

• Worked to reduce paper with electronic initatives

• Had zero cyber-security incidents in 2023

• Maintained an "excellent" score by a third-party cyber-security monitoring company

The IT department also worked closely with Member Support to implement a cloud-based phone system to deliver the following benefits to EnergyUnited members:

• Helped identify training needs

• Identified recurring member issues

• Predicted staffing needs

• Maximized Member Support’s service level

• Projected call volume insights

MEMBER SUPPORT

MEMBER SUPPORT

The Member Support team is always here to support you. From questions about billing and payments to inquiries about grant opportunities, we’re here to help. Take a look at these stats:

31 94%

Average seconds to answer member phone calls

Benchmark answer within 45 seconds.

Customer Satisfaction Score

At the end of every phone call, EnergyUnited members are asked about their overall experience with the cooperative. Responses are used to calculate customer satisfaction scores, which help identify opportunities for improvement.

149,982

WHAT MAKES

THE CO-OP DIFFERENCE

MEMBERS FIRST

The history of our electric cooperative is vast and fits within a larger national history. Our cooperative is part of a network of 26 member-owned and democratically governed entities across the state and though our histories may differ somewhat, our roots all run back to the same goal: empower communities across historically rural areas.

By the mid-1930’s nine out of 10 rural homes across America were still without electric service, and the unavailability of power kept many of these local economies solely dependent on agriculture. For many years, larger energy companies passed over these smaller neighborhoods until finally, President Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act, which provided funding for rural citizens to form electric cooperatives. Said differently: co-op members hold the power.

It is still that core aspect of our identity that drives our progress forward. As a matter of fact, none of our accomplishments would be possible without the very spark that began our existence: you.

Since its inception, our cooperative has evolved to include a larger service area, more members and resources in place to make sure we always keep your best interests at heart.

MAKES A CO-OP

MAC MEMBERS

The Member Advisory Committee (MAC) is a group of members who collectively act as a sounding board to help shape service processes and cooperative programs. In addition, MAC members are briefed regularly on EnergyUnited activities and strategic initiatives across three locations: Statesville, Lexington and Cornelius/ Lake Norman.

OUR GENEROUS MEMBERS

The EnergyUnited Foundation is funded entirely by our Operation Round-Up program, which encourages members to round up their bills to the nearest dollar each month. This small change can add up to some incredibly profound differences. Thank you to all of you enrolled in Operation Round-Up, and for those of you who would like to enroll, please call us at 1-800-522-3793 or sign up on My EnergyHub.

THE POWER OF YOU

Because we are owned and governed by you, we do things a little differently. For starters, any major decision is presented and voted on by our member board of directors. Secondly, our co-op holds elections to vote on new board members when multiple nominations are received. Members vote in these elections. As a matter of fact, every action every day, including the creation of this annual report, reflects the care and commitment we have for serving our members. From all of us to you, we’re thankful to be a part of your neighborhood.

Water Safety Fill-in-the-Blank

Summer means fun in the sun and spending time in the water to cool off. But remember, electricity and water never mix! Read the safety tips below and fill in the blanks with the correct choice from the word bank.

Psst! Check your work in the answer key.

1. When possible, use operated or rechargeable devices when you’re near water sources like a swimming pool.

2. If you hear while swimming, go inside until storms have passed.

3. Never bring devices near a swimming pool or other body of water. Devices should be kept at least 10 feet away from water sources.

4. All outdoor electrical outlets should be covered and kept

5. Never handle electrical devices if you are from swimming or other water activities.

Creative DIY Mason Jar Projects for a Vibrant Summer

Turn old jars, cans or containers into works of art

By Rue Reynold

June is the perfect time to embrace creativity and add a touch of charm to your outdoor spaces. With just a few simple materials and a dash of imagination, you can transform ordinary containers such as mason jars into delightful summer-themed lanterns and stylish outdoor planters. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating these fun and eco-friendly projects.

Lantern Jar

Use flameless tea lights for non-heat resistant containers or for extra caution. Their soft glow will not disappoint.

„ Mason Jar or other heat-resistant, transparent container

„ Acrylic paint

„ Paintbrushes

„ Tea lights or flameless tea lights

„ Twine or string (optional)

Clean and dry your container thoroughly.

Carefully paint the exterior of the container with a design of your choice. Let dry completely.

If desired, attach or glue embellishments to the container. Let dry or ensure the decorations are secure.

Place a tea light candle or flameless tea light inside the finished container and set the container in your desired location. Light the candle and enjoy the warm, inviting glow. Create a hanging lantern by tying twine securely around the rim to form a handle.

Single Planter

Recycle any container by turning it into a planter. Consider upcycling your DIY lantern into a planter after evening festivities. Just add soil and a plant!

„ Mason Jar or other heat-resistant, transparent container

„ Acrylic paint

„ Paintbrushes

„ Soil

„ Gravel or small rocks

„ Plants or herbs

„ Fertilizer (optional)

„ Glue (optional)

„ Decorative embellishments like twine, ribbons or stickers (optional)

Clean and dry your container thoroughly.

Carefully paint the exterior of the container with a design of your choice. Let dry completely.

If desired, attach or glue embellishments to the container. Let dry or ensure the decorations are secure.

Add 1–2 inches of gravel or small rocks to the container to act as a drainage layer. Fill the rest of the container with soil and a small amount of fertilizer, leaving enough space for your plant to grow and thrive.

Carefully plant your chosen greenery into the soil, ensuring it is securely nestled.

Arrange your newly created planters in your garden, or on your balcony, patio or window.

Follow your plant’s care instructions so it can grow strong and healthy.

Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country.

Powering Down on Vacay

Give your home a break while you’re away

By Miranda Boutelle

Just like you, the equipment in your home is hard at work getting through the daily grind. While you are off enjoying a new adventure or time away, your home’s equipment can benefit from a vacation, too. Doing so can reduce unnecessary energy waste and unneeded wear and tear on your heating and cooling system, appliances and more. Here’s how to set your home to vacay mode.

Your heating and cooling system keeps you comfortable. If you aren’t there, it doesn’t need to be quite so comfortable in your home. Setting the thermostat closer to the outdoor temperature can save you energy and money. I don’t recommend completely turning off the heating or cooling system. In extreme weather, your heating and cooling system also helps protect your home from freezing pipes or damage from excessive heat.

As a rule, you can typically set your thermostat 5 to 10 degrees closer to the outdoor temperature when you aren’t home. Each home is different, and the weather varies depending on where you live. Consider the right temperature balance for your home.

Installing a smart thermostat gives you the ability to control your settings remotely from your smart phone. This allows you to adjust the temperature after you leave home and right before you return.

Most water heaters include a vacation mode setting. This setting drops the temperature to reduce wasted energy when you’re away. A storage water heater is like an insulated tea kettle, standing by and ready for you to have hot water whenever you need it. Give that water heater a vacation, too. Changing the setting to vacation mode keeps it on at a lower setting, saving energy. Leave yourself a note with a reminder to turn it back on when you get home, so you don’t wind up with a disappointing shower before the first day back at work.

Closing the curtains can provide two benefits. It can keep heat from the sun at bay. This reduces the load on your heating and cooling system, which saves energy. It also has the benefit of blocking visibility into your home when you’re away.

For security, some people use timers or leave on exterior lights. Make sure any lights left on are LEDs,

instead of incandescent or compact fluorescent bulbs. LEDs use less energy and have less impact on your electric use when left on all night. You can also consider adding smart LEDs to your home. Smart LEDs can be controlled remotely through an app on your phone.

Did you know there are devices in your home that continue to draw power from your electrical outlets even when turned off or on standby? Before you leave, walk through your home and unplug devices and small appliances. Make sure gaming consoles and computers are fully powered down. Unplugging any devices that have lights, clocks or use standby mode can also reduce wasted energy.

Having peace of mind that your home is powered down and secure can help you enjoy your vacation. After all, we all need an occasional break.

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

Mark Gilliland

TheKeeper Keeper of Pea Island

By Donna Campbell Smith

On June 28, 1848,

in order to “save lives from the perils of the sea,” the U.S. Federal government began funding volunteer lifesaving efforts along the Atlantic coast an act that sowed the seeds of what would become the U.S. LifeSaving Service.

unique in American history: the Pea Island Life-Saving Station in Rodanthe. This was the only one of approximately 450 stations in the country to be commanded by a Black keeper, and the only life-saving station with an all-Black staff.

Richard Etheridge and his historic life-saving station

Before the Pea Island station rose to this distinction, however, there were problems reported within the North Carolina network of stations. Lives were not being saved. Between 1876 and 1878 there were three major wrecks along the North Carolina coast, and 211 lives were lost. The wreck of the schooner M&E Henderson was the straw that broke the camel’s back. National news covered the story and reported four lives were lost. Three survived only because they got ashore on their own. Investigators learned that the keeper and some of the surfmen of the Pea Island station were absent at the time of the shipwreck. Help arrived too late because the absentees had gone hunting.

General Superintendent Summers Kimball began an investigation. His investigations revealed the stations’ keepers were not knowledgeable seamen. The position of keeper was a prestigious one. It was found that keepers were placed in these positions because of who they knew in high places rather than their ability and knowledge of the sea. While there were some Black surfmen who had grown up working on fishing boats and did know the sea, there certainly were no Black keepers.

U.S. Life-Saving Service Inspectors Frank Newcome and Charles Shoemaker were assigned to conduct further investigations. Newcome asked for names of the best surfmen of the life-saving stations. They wanted men who knew the sea and had the best work ethics. One name kept coming up: Richard Etheridge. Richard Etheridge was a Black man, born a slave in 1842 on Roanoke Island in Manteo. He had been illegally taught to read and write by his owner, John B. Etheridge.

Richard Etheridge enlisted in the Union Army in 1863, serving in the 36th U.S. Colored Troops. He became a sergeant. After the war, Etheridge came back to the Outer Banks, married, and returned to working as a fisherman. He joined the staff of the life-saving station at Oregon Inlet in 1875 and later was transferred to the Bodie Island station, holding the lowest ranking job.

Newcome and Shoemaker recommended Etheridge for the position of keeper of the Pea Island Life-Saving Station. He was hired. His training in the U.S. Army gave him the skills to be a good leader. The surfmen were a “checkerboard” crew, meaning they were made up of both white and Black men. The white men did not want to work under a Black superior and resigned. Etheridge recruited Black men from other stations to fill the vacated spots, making Pea Island Life-Saving Station the first and only all-Black staff in the country.

There was resistance in the white community. They threatened the Black workers. In 1880 the Pea Island

station was burned to the ground. But that was not the end of the Pea Island station. It was rebuilt and Etheridge carried on with his job. He took to his responsibilities like he’d learned in the military, conducting daily drills with the life-saving equipment, and testing the men on their knowledge.

On Oct. 11, 1896, the Pea Island crew was put to the true test when the E.S. Newman ran aground south of the station during a hurricane. Etheridge immediately assembled his crew when he saw the distress signal. The storm was too violent to use the life-saving equipment. Etheridge issued an order that line be tied between his two strongest surfmen, who were then tethered to shore, and that they “go down through the surf as near the side of the vessel as possible.” They then carried each survivor safely ashore, one-by-one. All nine people aboard the Newman were rescued that night, and as Etheridge noted in his

They wanted men who knew the sea and had the best work ethics. One name kept coming up: Richard Etheridge. Richard Etheridge was a Black man, born a slave in 1842 on Roanoke Island in Manteo.

log, “the voice of gladden hearts greeted the arrival of the station crew.”

Etheridge worked as keeper of the Pea Island station for 20 years. In January 1900, he became sick and died at the station. The Pea Island Life-Saving Station continued to be staffed by an all-Black crew until it was decommissioned in 1947.

The legacy of Etheridge and the Pea Island LifeSaving Station remains an important part of our state and national history, and a point of pride in the local community.

“If we are to promote unity, love and community, we need to provide inclusivity and exposure of all history in Dare County such as Captain Richard Etheridge and the all-Black life-saving station at Pea Island, the enslaved and the free,” says Coquetta Laverna C. Brooks, secretary of the Pea Island Preservation Society. “The beauty of a fabric is in the detail, and the detail is in the thread. We are all pieces of thread!”

Donna Campbell Smith is a Carolina Country contributing writer who lives in Franklin County.

Bounty of the

Sea

North Carolina’s coast is teeming with sea life, many of which has been prepared in recipes passed down for generations. Celebrate our coast with these kitchen-tested seafood recipes from “Mariner’s Menu,” courtesy of NC Sea Grant.

Recipes from ‘Mariner’s Menu’

Photos by Vanda Lewis

SEA FACT Many bivalves possess nacre, or mother-of-pearl, and can create pearls if an irritant such as a grain of sand gets inside their shell. Our native Eastern oyster (Crassotrea virginica) creates small, chalky pearls without nacre and have no value.

SEA FACT The shells of the hard clam, Mercenaria mercenaria, were ground up and used by Algonquin tribes to make beaded necklaces used as wampum. Look for the violet-purple interior portion of the shell the next time you’re at the beach!

The Seafood Experts

These recipes come from “Mariner’s Menu: 30 Years of Fresh Seafood Ideas,” published by UNC Press on behalf of NC Sea Grant — the non-profit research and outreach organization focused on enhancing the sustainable use of North Carolina’s ocean, coastal and watershed resources. Visit marinersmenu.org to find more recipes or order the cookbook.

Sea Facts courtesy of NC Sea Grant Coastal and Marine Education Specialist Erika Young.

Southern Fried Oysters

1 pint shucked oysters, standard or select Bisquick (or similar baking mix)

Oil for deep frying

Drain oysters and pat dry. Roll in baking mix.

Deep fry in preheated 375-degree oil until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve.

Baked Clams with Garlic Butter

36 littleneck clams

¼ pound butter, softened

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped garlic

3 tablespoons coarsely chopped green onion, including tops

½ cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley

¼ cup dry white wine

¼ cup fresh breadcrumbs

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese Rock salt

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Scrub clams thoroughly with a stiff brush under cold, running water. Open clams and discard top shell.

Combine butter, garlic, green onion, parsley, wine, crumbs, salt, pepper and half the Parmesan. Blend until smooth.

Place clams on the half shell in a bed of rock salt in a cooking pan. Spoon butter mixture evenly over clams. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and bake until clams are done and cheese is melted, about 6 to 8 minutes.

SEA FACT The female blue crab has a signature triangular or domed shaped covering on the abdomen, which provides protection and coverage for the eggs. It is illegal in NC to possess immature females at any time.

SEA FACT Triggerfish are shaped like a flattened football and have rough, sandpaper-like skin. They deposit eggs in guarded nests, and some species are extremely territorial.

Seafood-Stuffed Avocados

½ pound backfin crabmeat

½ pound cooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 tablespoons mayonnaise

3 tablespoons sour cream

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

3 avocados, chilled Paprika

Lettuce leaves

Carefully remove any shell or cartilage from crabmeat. In a medium bowl, lightly toss crabmeat and shrimp. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, salt and pepper. Add to crab and shrimp. Mix gently but thoroughly. Chill for several hours.

When ready to serve, peel and remove pit from avocados. Cut in half lengthwise. Pile centers with salad. Sprinkle with paprika. Place on lettuce leaves.

Fried Triggerfish

With shallot butter

Fish

1½ pounds triggerfish fillets, skinless

2 tablespoons canola oil

2 tablespoons butter

Salt and pepper, to taste Flour

Shallot Butter

½ cup butter, softened

2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots

1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon

1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil

¼ salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

For shallot butter, combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside. Heat oil in a skillet to 375 degrees. Add 2 tablespoons butter and melt. Lightly salt and pepper fish then dredge lightly in flour. Place in skillet and sauté until lightly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the fish over and repeat, cooking until done.

Spread shallot butter over warm fish and serve.

The heritage of American Silver Dollars is rich and diverse, marked by stunningly beautiful designs, leading to an enduring desirability in the hearts of collectors around the world. In this iconic U.S. Silver Dollar set, spanning nearly 150 years, you’re getting FIVE American Silver Dollars issued over the last 15 decades that each reflect the history, culture and economic aspects of the United States.

We’ve Done the Work for You with this Extraordinary 5-Pc. U.S. Silver Dollar Set

Each of these U.S. Silver Dollars is sought-after by collectors individually, but this set includes every design of U.S. Silver Dollar in American history, issued from 1878 to 2024!

Morgan Silver Dollar: First struck 146 years ago in 1878, the Morgan has a historic legacy as the coin that helped build the American West. Minted until 1904, then again in 1921, this 90% silver coin with its iconic Lady Liberty design is the most collected vintage Silver Dollar in the world. Extremely Fine (XF) condition coin included in set.

Peace Silver Dollar: With a beautiful design memorializing peace following the end of World War I, the 90% silver Peace Dollar was intended as a one-year only release struck in 1921—but it proved so popular with the American people, it was struck until 1928, then again in 1934-35. Extremely Fine (XF) condition coin included in set.

Eisenhower Dollar: The last circulating U.S. dollar coin, the Eisenhower Dollar, aka the “Ike Dollar,” was prized by Americans, with its design featuring war hero President Dwight D. Eisenhower, backed by an image symbolizing the Apollo II moon landing.

First struck with silver 1971-1976, the Eisenhower Dollar in this set was struck in 40% silver for collectors, and you will receive a coin in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition.

Silver Eagle Type 1: The first-ever U.S. Silver Dollar minted in 99.9% silver, these coins were first minted in 1986 following President Ronald Reagan’s signing of the Liberty Coin Act into law on July 9, 1985, which authorized the U.S. Mint to strike America’s new silver bullion coin. This gorgeous Silver Dollar features the original, revered Type 1 “Heraldic Eagle” reverse design by John Mercanti, 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition coin included in set.

Silver Eagle Type 2: In honor of the popular 99.9% silver coin’s 35th anniversary in 2021, the Silver Eagle received a new, esteemed Type 2 “Eagle Landing” reverse design. This is the current issued coin by the U.S. Mint. Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition coin included in set.

You’ll save both time and money on this 150 Year U.S. Silver Dollar Set, with FREE SHIPPING and a BONUS presentation case, plus a new and informative 150 Years U.S. Silver Dollars booklet! Call right now to get yours before they’re gone!

Thick, Full, Youthful Looking Hair Means Better Looks, More Confidence, More Fun

Clinical study shows this new hair loss breakthrough can help both men and women enjoy a thick, full head of hair

America’s top anti-aging specialist, Dr. Al Sears, recently discovered a game-changing nutrient that’s giving men and women a next-level boost in con dence thanks to the groundbreaking power of plant stem cells.

For decades Dr. Sears has stayed at the forefront of anti-aging technology. And he uncovered this exciting solution to thin, dull, lifeless hair while researching a unique nutrient called malus domestica. Extracted from one type of rare apple, found only in Switzerland, it produces a powerful form of plant stem cells shown to help give a once sad-looking scalp a total transformation.

Introducing Re-Nourish, an exciting new solution that harnesses the power of plant stem cells to help men and women go…

“From Grandparent to Gorgeous” in a Matter of Weeks

“When you look at a crisp, shiny, red apple or a lush, vibrant rose in bloom, there’s absolutely no way to tell if the plant that produced them is ve years old or 105 years old,” says Dr. Sears, “And that’s because plants produce these powerful stem cells that ensure that year after year their fruit and owers look just as ageless as they ever did.”

Dr. Sears told us he’s able to tap into the power of those plant cells so Re-Nourish could offer that same lush, vibrant, ageless appearance for millions of men and women who are tired of their dull, withered-looking hair.

The Dawn of a New Era in Naturally Luxurious Hair

Dr. Sears couldn’t be more excited about the many bene ts of natural plant stem cells and the hope they offer for our future. And this naturally inspired plant-based approach makes Re-Nourish a unique and powerful breakthrough that’s not only creating remarkable results...

But the men and women who’ve had a chance to try it are spellbound.

Like April W. who had been grappling with a sad, scraggly,

con dence-crushing head of hair, “Conditioning treatments, vitamins, fancy blow dryers, special wet brushes and other expensive solutions never helped,” But then she tried Re-Nourish, “I’m seeing noticeable results with my hair thickness and length!”

John S. said he’s had betterthan-expected results. So, when he sat in the barber’s chair, he was pleasantly surprised “My barber that I have been going to for years noticed, and I didn’t tell him I was using the product Re-Nourish!!” he continued “My hair feels and looks much fuller. That’s all the evidence I need to know that this product is legitimate and useful — Great product.”

And Elizabeth B. from West Palm Beach told us, “I was worried that it would leave my ne, light hair feeling heavy or looking greasy, but it hasn’t done either. It also has a lovely natural botanical smell!”

For men and women with dull, thinning, or receding hairlines, ReNourish offers a new, exciting, and extremely easy way to achieve the appearance of a full, healthy-looking head of hair without expensive treatments and from the comfort and privacy of your own home.

The Secret Sauce Behind Re-Nourish

What sets Re-Nourish apart? Well, in addition to malus domestica, Re-Nourish harnesses the power of targeted botanicals like the legendary Burdock Root. Rich in antioxidants and used for centuries for radiant skin and luxurious-looking hair, Burdock was a must-have for a product like ReNourish

Another secret to Re-Nourish’s incredible success is Rosemary. Extracts of this aromatic, evergreen shrub are well-researched for their anti-aging properties. Making it an exciting addition to Re-Nourish’s unique, naturally inspired formula.

While Black Cumin, known for its beautiful white and purple owers, has been used for thousands of years to support the appearance of thick healthy hair, it was also added to the formula for its natural moisturizing properties.

These thoughtfully selected ingredients are combined with a targeted array of antioxidant vitamins and vital minerals for a revolutionary experience that’s safe, easy to use, and naturally inspired. With a pleasant scent that doesn’t linger and won’t leave your scalp itchy, aky, greasy, or uncomfortable.

Now It’s Your Turn for Gorgeous Looking Hair

You could be just weeks away from having the appearance of such thick, luscious hair – the kind of hair you just can’t help but run your ngers through. Feeling condent, vibrant, self-assured, and youthful. So, get ready for the admiring glances and compliments. Because that’s the power of ReNourish

It doesn’t just mean soft, lush, luxuriant hair. It can transform your life, boost your self-esteem, supercharge your con dence – and it comes as no surprise that surveys show men and women alike prefer the look of a dense, silky, head of hair.

It’s really no wonder that ReNourish is quickly gaining popularity. It’s making waves in the industry and creating a buzz among those who are fed up with a sparse,

limp, wispy head of hair.

And because Re-Nourish is only available through Dr. Sears’ partners at Pure Radiance, demand is so high the company is having a tough time keeping up. Stocks are running out faster than they can be replenished.

And that’s probably because Dr. Sears is currently offering readers a risk-free trial of Re-Nourish How to Get ReNourish

“It’s not available in retail stores yet,” says Dr. Sears. The reason? Dr. Sears doesn’t want pro t-driven third-party retailers raising the price on a unique, revolutionary product that has the power to truly transform people’s lives.

“Plant stem cells offer so many exciting bene ts for our future. But right now, there’s nothing like this available anywhere else. And that’s why we want to keep Re-Nourish affordable for anyone who wants to try it. And this way not only can we ship directly to the customer, but we’re also able to get their orders in the mail within 24 hours.” And for the outliers who still feel skeptical, Dr. Sears is backing every order with a riskfree, 100% money-back guarantee.

To take advantage of this special offer, simply call the Sears Toll-Free Health Hotline at 1-800926-4213 now. Use Promo Code CCRN524 when you call.

[EDITOR’S NOTE]: Due to recent media exposure for Re-Nourish, Pure Radiance is experiencing unprecedented demand. If the phone line is busy when you call, please try again to avoid missing this exclusive one-time-only offer.

Paddlers’ Paradise

Self-service kayak rentals make getting on the water easy

By Vanessa Infanzon | Photos courtesy of Visit Jacksonville

Lisa Miller has been kayaking all over the country for more than 30 years. Last fall, she tried out the new kayak kiosk, a self-service kayak rental station, at Riverwalk Crossing Park in downtown Jacksonville. Lisa came prepared to rent one of the four single-person kayaks: She downloaded the Rent.Fun app to her phone. Once she paid the hourly fee through the app, she heard the click to let her know the door to the vending machine was open. She grabbed the kayak, paddle and personal flotation device and carried it to the New River, just steps away from the kiosk.

Lisa spent the day on the New River, one of Jacksonville’s blueways (visitjacksonvillenc.com/209/ Blueways) water routes in Onslow County. She checked out the osprey nest at the Louis Sewell Jr. Bridge and found a shady stop near Wilson Bay for a break.

“The cool thing about being on the New River is there is a lot of nature to see as you go along the banks of the river,” says Lisa, a Jacksonville resident and former

Have App, Will Travel

Try out these kayak kiosks in North Carolina. Use the free Rent.Fun app or go online to rent.fun to get more information.

■ City Lake Park, 815 Concord Road, Albemarle

■ Hertford Bay Marina, 421 Albemarle Blvd., Hertford

■ Jacksonville Landing, 135 S Marine Blvd, Jacksonville

■ Northeast Creek Park, 910 Corbin St., Jacksonville

■ Riverwalk Marina, 15 Kerr St., Jacksonville

■ Slocum Creek Recreation Area, 120 Church Road, Havelock

Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative member. “You can see turtles, herons, egrets and kingfishers. It’s just a beautiful place to go.”

Albemarle, Havelock and Jacksonville are the first cities in the state to offer this “kayak vending machine” option.

“Several cities in North Carolina have added kayak kiosks as amenities,” says Susan Baptist, director of recreation services for Jacksonville. The kiosks are a great option for vacationers who don’t bring kayaks with them, military families who move often, and for those who don’t want to commit to purchasing a personal kayak. The rentals are $5 to $15 per hour, depending on the location.

“This is an opportunity for people to put their toe in the water,” Susan explains, “and explore without the investment and transport of a kayak.”

Vanessa Infanzon moved to Charlotte for college and never left. When she’s not writing about business or travel, she’s paddle boarding on the Catawba River.

Kayak Safety Tips

1. Dress in a T-shirt and shorts or a bathing suit. The seat in the kayak might get wet.

2. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, binoculars, a hat, water and a dry bag or plastic bag for your phone.

3. Wear flip-flops or water shoes in case you get out of the kayak where there are sharp rocks or oysters.

4. Clip a safety whistle to the kayak so it will float in case of an emergency.

5. Always tell someone of your plans, including your route and when to expect you back.

It was a perfect late autumn day in the northern Rockies. Not a cloud in the sky, and just enough cool in the air to stir up nostalgic memories of my trip into the backwoods. is year, though, was di erent. I was going it solo. My two buddies, pleading work responsibilities, backed out at the last minute. So, armed with my trusty knife, I set out for adventure. Well, what I found was a whole lot of trouble. As in 8 feet and 800-pounds of trouble in the form of a grizzly bear. Seems this grumpy fella was out looking for some adventure too. Mr. Grizzly saw me, stood up to his entire 8 feet of ferocity and let out a roar that made my blood turn to ice and my hair stand up. Unsnapping my leather sheath, I felt for my hefty, trusty knife and felt emboldened. I then showed the massive grizzly over 6 inches of 420 surgical grade stainless steel, raised my hands and yelled, “Whoa bear! Whoa bear!” I must have made my point, as he gave me an almost admiring grunt before turning tail and heading back into the woods.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars FREE when you purchase the Grizzly Hunting Knife. Make sure to act quickly. The Grizzly Hunting Knife has been such a hit that we’re having trouble keeping it in stock. Our first release of more than 1,200 SOLD OUT in TWO DAYS! After months of waiting on our artisans, we've finally gotten some knives back in stock. Only 1,337 are available at this price, and half of them have already sold!

Knife Speci cations:

I was pretty shaken, but otherwise ne. Once the adrenaline high subsided, I decided I had some work to do back home too. at was more than enough adventure for one day.

Our Grizzly Hunting Knife pays tribute to the call of the wild. Featuring stick-tang construction, you can feel con dent in the strength and durability of this knife. And the hand carved, natural bone handle ensures you won’t lose your grip even in the most dire of circumstances. I also made certain to give it a great price. After all, you should be able to get your point across without getting stuck with a high price.

Stauer 8x21 Compact Binoculars -a $99 valuewith your purchase of the Grizzly Hunting Knife

• Stick tang 420 surgical stainless steel blade; 7 ¼" blade; 12" overall

• Hand carved natural brown and yellow bone handle

• Brass hand guard, spacers and end cap

• FREE genuine tooled leather sheath included (a $49 value!)

The Grizzly Hunting Knife $249 $79* + S&P Save $170

California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy. A WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system taps into the stored solar energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. That’s money in the bank and a smart investment in your family’s comfort. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn how to tap into your buried treasure.

Arugula-Radicchio Salad With Blue Cheese Vinaigrette

Texture and flavor contrasts make a good salad, and this one is sweet, peppery, rich and crunchy — plus it looks beautiful. The vinaigrette offers the taste of blue cheese dressing without the heaviness of a creamy one. But sprinkle more blue cheese on if you’re a fan.

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons blue cheese, finely crumbled

¼ teaspoon garlic, finely chopped

½ teaspoon oregano

2½ cups baby arugula

1 cup radicchio, coarsely chopped (about 1 small head)

½ cup red onion, sliced

1½ cups pear, peeled and chopped*

¼ cup honey toasted pecans, chopped**

From Your Kitchen

Bangin’ Bang Bang Shrimp

½ cup mayonnaise  (we used Duke’s)

¹/₃ cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (we used Mae Ploy)

1 tablespoon Sriracha Hot Sauce

2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped

½ teaspoon coarse sea salt

2–3 dashes cayenne pepper

2 pounds medium peeled/deveined shrimp, tails removed

Cornstarch

Oil for frying

Sliced scallions (green and white)

Chopped lettuce  Lemon wedges

Whisk together sauce ingredients (mayonnaise through pepper) and refrigerate. The sauce can be made a day ahead.

Prepare the blue cheese vinaigrette by putting the olive oil, vinegar, pepper and salt in a medium-sized bowl and whisking until well combined. Stir in the blue cheese, garlic and oregano. Taste and add more salt if needed. Set aside or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day ahead. Bring to room temperature if refrigerated and stir well before using.

Put the arugula and radicchio in a large salad bowl and use your hands to gently toss and combine. Add the onion and pear. Lightly drizzle on the vinaigrette (don’t drown the salad; you likely won’t need all of it) and gently toss with serving spoons. Top with the pecans and serve immediately. *Sprinkle lemon juice on the chopped pear to prevent browning.

**Look for honey toasted pecans in the produce section or substitute a different sweetened nut.

Yield: 4–6 servings

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and generously toss with cornstarch in a large bowl.

Line a full-sized sheet pan with waxed paper. Place shrimp on sheet pan, shaking off excess cornstarch. Heat oil to 375 degrees and fry shrimp in batches until crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Transfer to paper-towel-lined plate.

Toss fried shrimp with sauce and serve over chopped lettuce topped with scallions and lemon wedges. Refrigerate leftover sauce for up to 2 weeks.

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

Switch up your typical Italian dinner bread with these herby, cheesy little muffins. Or pop them in your mouth for a savory snack anytime. Freeze any extras.

1½ cups cornmeal

½ cup flour

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons basil

2 teaspoons dried oregano or marjoram

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, slightly cooled

1¼ cups buttermilk

1 egg, beaten

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, stir together the cornmeal, flour, baking soda and powder, salt, Parmesan and herbs until well combined. When the butter has cooled, whisk in the buttermilk and egg. Pour the mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well but don’t overmix.

Divide the batter evenly into the mini muffin pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Yield: Makes about 20 mini muffins

Recipes by Debbie Moose unless otherwise noted. Learn more about Debbie at debbiemoose.com

Digital Extra Visit carolinacountry.com/recipes to search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient.

Recipe courtesy of Cynthia Gray of Newport, a member of CarteretCraven Electric Cooperative

Savory Parmesan Mini Muffins

June Events

JUN. 1

Black Bear Festival Water Street, Plymouth 252-793-6627

MAY 3–JUN. 2

Gold Hill Bicentennial Celebration

Gold Hill Mines Historic Park, Gold Hill

704-279-5674

MAY 31–JUN. 1

Ole Smoky Antique Tractor & Engine Show

Smoky Mountain Event Center, Waynesville 828-593-8330

JUN. 1–30

Artists in Residence at Edgewood Edgewood Cottage, Blowing Rock 828-295-7851

JUN. 1

Art in the Garden Davidson County Agriculture Center, Lexington 336-407-2853

JUN. 1

Carolina Beach Music Festival

Cape Fear Blvd & Carolina Beach Ave., Carolina Beach 910-458-8434

Creeper Trail Park Music & Mt. Craft Festival

Creeper Trail Park, Lansing 336-384-3938

Enfield Fishing Creek Paddle Paddling, food, music, giveaways Bellamy Mill, Enfield

JUN. 2

Bear Town Exchange Downtown Farmer’s Market, New Bern 315-430-7951

JUN. 5–9

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Carolina Civic Center Historic Theater, Lumberton 910-738-4339

April’s winner

JUN. 9–15

June Bloom Lavender Festival Sunshine Lavender Farm, Hurdle Mills 919-414-4982

JUN. 13

Celebration on the Sound Carteret Community College, Morehead City 252-222-6143

JUNE 14–15

301 Endless Yard Sale Various locations along U.S. Highway 301, Selma 919-989-8687

JUN. 15

Blueberry Fest Vernon Blades Park, Bridgeton JUN. 22

JUN. 7–8

Cherry Bounce Festival

Forest City Pavilion, Forest City 828-447-1730

JUN. 7–9

Yadkin Valley Carnival Heritage Center, Elkin 336-526-1111

Ocrafolk Music & Storytelling Festival Ocracoke Village 252-921-0260

JUN. 8–20

Juneteenth of New Bern Henderson Park, New Bern 252-497-8838

Music in the Creeper Trail Park Creeper Trail Park, Lansing 336-384-3938

Great Trent River Raft Race Union Point Park, New Bern 252-637-3111

JUN. 25

Korean War Remembrance A tribute to veterans and the Korean people Brevard College, Brevard 828-507-3171

JUN. 29

Heritage Day Crafts, music Bolick and Traditions Pottery, Lenoir 828-295-3862

Visit carolinacountry.com/calendar for more information about each event, including links to the most current information, or to submit your own event.

where in Carolina Country is this?

Send your answer by June 15, with your name, address and the name of your electric cooperative. Online: carolinacountry.com/where

By mail: Where in Carolina Country? 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616

Multiple entries from the same person will be disqualified. The winner, chosen at random and announced in our August issue, will receive $25.

Have a roadside gem you’d like to share? Submit a photo, plus a brief description and general location information, at carolinacountry.com/where

The April “Where Is This” photo by Neha Shah of Pittsboro features artwork located in the Siler City downtown courtyard near Chatham Avenue and Third Street, outside the Chatham Rabbit coffee shop and NC Arts Incubator. The coffee shop is a local gathering spot in the historic downtown area and a good starting point to explore the district’s stores, galleries, murals and restaurants. The courtyard area also houses the monthly Siler City Downtown Music Series from April to October. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Ed Slaby of Denver, a Rutherford EMC member.

Powering a Brighter Future

Reliability & Innovation

North Carolina’s 26 electric cooperatives are leading the way to a brighter future for 2.5 million cooperative members and communities through:

Leveraging new technologies and innovation to deliver reliable electricity across resilient, co‑op operated electric grids.

Affordable, Sustainable Energy

Advancing a goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 using new and existing resources to ensure electricity continues to be delivered at the lowest possible cost.

Local Community Support

Enriching the lives of our local members through continued education initiatives, economic development and community focused activities.