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.
Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC, and additional mailing offices. Editorial offices: 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950. Carolina Country® is a registered trademark of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Carolina Country, 3400 Sumner Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616-2950.
Change of address: Please contact your electric co-op or go online to carolinacountry.com/address
Experiencing a power outage?
Please contact your electric co-op directly to ensure prompt service. Visit carolinacountry.com/co-ops to find yours online.
10
Canines for Service, Friends for Life
A Wilmington nonprofit is transforming lives, one dog at a time.
20
Documenting History
Preserving the legacy of NC’s Rosenwald Schools.
Safe Haven for Freedom
The Freedmen’s Colony on Roanoke Island.
Favorites
Army and Air Force veteran Jeff with his service dog Carter, a yellow Labrador retriever trained by the team at Canines for Service in Wilmington. Learn about the work the nonprofit is doing to support veterans in need on page 10. Photo by Randy Berger Photography.
Connect with Carolina Country
Want sneak peaks at articles, first shots at contests and access to exclusive digital content? Visit carolinacountry.com/signup to join our email newsletter list.
From Our Readers
Cattle Conundrum
The nice photo on the cover of the January issue has caused a rousing, but good-natured debate among a few of us. Many Google searches later, we are still unsure whether these are cows or yaks or some sort of a hybrid bovine-ox. The submitter of the image says “cows.” Surely, there is a more concise identification. We would love one.
THIS MONTH:
Serving Those Who Served
As someone who has a history of owning some less-than-obedient dogs, I’m always impressed by the truly well-trained ones out there. This month’s cover story on Canines for Service highlights a nonprofit helping dogs go above and beyond as service animals assisting U.S. military veterans. We’re also recognizing Black History Month with two stories about how African Americans made strides toward equality following the Civil War and into the early 1900s. Also, well-deserved congratulations go out to lineworkers who’ve recently completed intensive training programs— see that list on page 7.
—Scott Gates, editor
Milton Bland, Simpson, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative
Editor’s note: Everyone seems to love our January cover models, which are Highland cattle most commonly found in Scotland. They also thrive on several farms in Western NC, so keep your eyes peeled when traveling in parts west! Here’s another reader who’s met them across the pond…
‘Haylin Coo’
I loved the photo on the cover of your January 2025 issue. On a tour of the Scottish Highlands, I was introduced to the ‘Haylin coo,’ Scottish pronunciation of Highland cow. I found them both charming and cute. I enjoyed reading that the ones in your photo were considered pets that loved to play in the snow with the Perryman family children.
Mary Smith, Havelock, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative
Carolina SNAPSHOTS
Thanks From a Fellow Reader
I just wanted to say I thoroughly enjoyed the many wonderful reader photos in the January edition. Those two fellas on the front gave me a good laugh, so cute. And the touching story of Mr. Hussey and his girls (page 11) — you don't find many folks like that anymore. Thanks to everyone for sharing.
Diana Alberti, Newport
THEME
A Louann Fields, Rockingham
A member of Pee Dee Electric
B Joshua Bell, Mount Olive
A member of Tri-County EMC
C Luther Rogers, Rowland
A member of Lumbee River EMC
D Dane Howard, Davidson
A member of EnergyUnited
Submit your photo!
April theme: Mailboxes (Deadline Feb. 20)
May theme: Dogs (Deadline March 20)
June theme: Reflections (Deadline April 20)
Send us your best shots based on an upcoming theme — we’ll pay $25 for those published. Submit high resolution digital photos and find full terms and conditions at carolinacountry.com/snapshots (no emails, please). We retain reprint and online rights for all submissions.
Honing the Key to Reliable Service
By Farris Leonard
Providing reliable service is a fundamental part of your electric cooperative’s mission, though it’s a complex task. Technology is used to monitor demand, predict future power needs, and even isolate or reroute power to minimize outage time and assure quality of service for each member, from homes and schools to hospitals and farms or even complex manufacturing plants.
Though even with this advanced technology, the key to reliable service still comes down to the people who build, operate and maintain the complex power system. Lineworkers are professionals who, through years of training and on-the-job experience, learn how to construct and maintain the power system daily.
With a skilled workforce, we can be confident in maintaining the reliability and quality of service you expect.
A lineworker’s training never truly ends. Their career journey is one of progressive knowledge, skill demonstration and time in a multistep process. Electric co-ops have an apprenticeship program that is lengthy and demanding, which includes comprehension and skills testing. Evaluation is performed by the co-op, and while the length of time varies, it typically takes a lineworker six to eight years to complete the process and become a "journeyman."
North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives’ Job Training & Safety (JT&S) team provides supplemental training and an opportunity to earn an associate degree in Line Technology in partnership with Nash Community College in Rocky Mount. This facility provides a training environment where 20 to 25 lineworkers spend a week away from home to focus on learning and practicing critical skills. There are 12 different courses, or "schools," each dedicated to specific tasks based on the students’ experience and apprenticeship level. (Learn about recent graduates of these programs on page 7.)
We utilize instructors from electric co-ops, demonstrating a key cooperative principle “Cooperation Among Cooperatives.” These instructors ensure instruction that is consistent and relevant to current, real-world field operations. The demand for this training has been high, with 29 schools being held in the last two years and 29 schools scheduled for 2025. This equates to more than 700 instructional seats being filled each year.
Our schools are always incorporating new technologies to enhance the training experience for the students. This includes providing safe and state-of-the-art energized training, expanding the training field, and incorporating virtual reality into select training sessions.
The JT&S team has provided a training guide for the cooperatives that is registered with the North Carolina Community College System. It creates a roadmap of progression and minimum training standards to create consistency across the state. Upon completing 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, required schooling and task completion, the lineworker will receive a journeyman designation that is recognized not only by the state of North Carolina, but nationally.
Your electric cooperative takes training seriously, diligently investing in the people who serve you. With a skilled workforce, we can be confident in maintaining the reliability and quality of service you expect, while equipping lineworkers with the know-how needed to come home safe.
Farris Leonard is director of Job Training & Safety Field Services for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.
To those who support the
North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center
THANK YOU!
North Carolina’s electric cooperatives hosted their 24th annual golf tournament and fundraiser in September 2024, donating more than $170,000 to the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center at UNC Hospitals. Electric cooperatives, in partnership with more than 70 organizations and individuals, have contributed $2.95 million to the Burn Center over the years.
Beyond providing the very best in compassionate care, the Burn Center’s mission extends to advancing burn prevention education and outreach, innovative treatment, research, rehabilitation and life-long aftercare. Its success has led to the Burn Center’s recognition as one of the best comprehensive burn centers in the world.
North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are grateful to all of the organizations and individuals who contributed to the success of this fundraiser and the Burn Center. With the help of generous donors like these, the Burn Center can continue its groundbreaking work in helping burn patients become burn survivors.
DIAMOND SPONSORS
($12,500 and up)
CoBank | Lee Electrical Construction, Inc.
North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives
PLATINUM SPONSORS
($10,000–$12,499)
Duke Energy | Utility Lines Construction
GOLD SPONSORS
($5,000–$9,999)
C Phase Services | Carolina Dielectric Maint. & Testing
Carolina Power and Signalization | CFC
Four County EMC | Fallen Lineman Foundation
Pike Electric, LLC | River City Construction, Inc.
South River EMC | Southern Power Company
SILVER SPONSORS
($2,000–$4,999)
ACES | Albemarle EMC | Altec Industries | Blue Ridge Energy
Booth & Associates, Inc. | Brunswick Electric | Central Electric
ECE Power | Edgecombe-Martin County EMC | ElectriCom
EnergyUnited | ERMCO, Inc. | French Broad EMC
Halifax EMC | Haywood EMC | Jones-Onslow EMC
Lewis Tree Service | McCall-Thomas Engineering Co, Inc.
Meridian Cooperative | NTS | Pee Dee EMC | Piedmont Electric
Advanced Energy | Ditch Witch of NC | Hubbell Utility Solutions
Jansen Energy LLC | SE Energy | Solar Flare Power Corporation | Terry Berge
Fe B ruarY Quick Hits
NC Abe Abraham Lincoln was born Feb. 12 — but was it in Western NC? Visit carolinacountry.com/lincoln and decide for yourself.
Helping Hand
Check in on elderly neighbors and family members to make sure they’re keeping warm, and their sidewalks and driveways are clear of snow and ice.
Clear Views
Make sure you have an ice scraper handy in your car, and top off washer fluid with a de-icer or all-season formula.
Sweet Treats
NC Co-ops Support 30 Years of Bright Ideas
This past year marked a memorable milestone for a long-standing community initiative of North Carolina's electric cooperatives — the Bright Ideas education grant program (ncbrightideas.com) celebrated 30 years.
Commitment to community is at the root of the cooperatives’ foundation, and that includes investing in education and the students that represent the future of the state. In 2024, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives awarded more than $784,000 in Bright Ideas education grants, supporting 706 innovative learning projects.
“These grants allow the cooperatives to help with the education of so many children through our winning teachers’ innovative classroom projects,” said Wendy Wood, manager of communications and community relations at Surry-Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation. “While some projects may involve
Treat your sweetie for Valentine’s Day with a homemade breakfast or dessert. Search hundreds of recipes at carolinacountry.com/recipes SINCE 1994:
$ 16.5 MILLION in grants awarded
one classroom, many involve multiple classes across a grade level, and some even have schoolwide impact. Our staff looks forward to presenting the checks to our winning teachers each year and seeing the faces of the students light up with smiles.”
From sustainability gardens to elephant DNA testing to a full-scale apiary, these grants have helped North Carolina students explore their curriculum in new and exciting ways for 30 years.
“The idea that I’ve been able to build this over three years now — and this is my third time winning — I can make it bigger and bigger,” said Whitney Williams, a teacher at Grady A. Brown Elementary in Hillsborough and 2024 Bright Ideas winner from Piedmont Electric Cooperative. “Every time I’m awarded another grant, it energizes me to do more.”
—Josh Conner, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives
15.4 THOUSAND projects sponsored
3.8 MILLION students inspired
NC Co-op Lineworkers Gain Knowledge and Skills at Nash Community College
Since 2021, 36 electric cooperative lineworkers have completed advanced education work in Nash Community College’s Electric Lineman Technology program. Three earned associate degrees in Electric Line Construction Technology after completing 66 credit hours, and 33 earned advanced certificates after completing 17 college-level credits.
The Nash Community College program was initiated in 1998 and offers curriculum certificates for completing college-level credits. Students benefit from consistent training and teamwork as they train with students from sister cooperatives during each week’s class.
“The mission of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives is to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to members,” said Farris Leonard, director of Job Training & Safety Field Services for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “It takes highly trained and skilled lineworkers to achieve this goal.”
The program includes courses with both classroom content and practical hands-on objectives. The specially designed training field, built by the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives, allows for a training environment for individuals to increase their skills for application when they return to their individual cooperatives. They learn skills such as overhead line construction, underground line construction and the National Electrical Safety Code. In addition to classes in line work and energy management, students can take additional courses through the community college system toward an associate degree, such as writing, math, critical thinking, computers and communication. Twenty-five co-op lineworkers have gone on to earn associates degrees since the Electric Lineman Technology program began.
The program is supported entirely by the state’s electric cooperatives but is also attended by lineworkers from Duke Energy and municipal electric systems.
“This training program is highly valued for lineworkers who are looking to advance their careers,” Leonard said. “It’s an invaluable resource for electric co-op employees and helps ensure lineworkers across the state are adept at critical skills and adhering to the latest safety protocols.”
ADVANCED CERTIFICATE RECIPIENTS
Albemarle EMC
Ken Winslow (2022)
Brunswick EMC
Jonathan Long (2023)
Phillip Marlowe (2024)
Bryan Gore (2024)
Central EMC
Timothy Baldwin (2024)
Cameron Bennett (2024)
Edgecombe-Martin County EMC
Alton Lewis (2021)
Halifax EMC
Cody Pleasant (2021)
Branden Edwards (2021)
Lumbee River EMC
Joshua Oxendine (2021)
Christopher Taylor (2024)
Pee Dee EMC
Jesse Puckett (2021)
John Chewning (2024)
John Thomas (2024)
Piedmont EMC
Kevin Long (2024)
Sam Snead (2024)
Stephen Poole (2024)
Pitt & Greene EMC
Joshua Dixon (2024)
Randolph EMC
Christopher Smith (2024)
Roanoke Cooperative
Robbie Stallings (2021)
Joshua White (2024)
Rutherford EMC
Matthew Harshman (2021)
Sandhills Utility Services
Jared Stine (2024)
Lawrence Casper (2024)
South River EMC
Seth Lambert (2024)
Surry-Yadkin EMC
Nick Newman (2021)
Tideland EMC
Robert Shively (2021)
Gregory “Cole” Bennett (2023)
Austin Roscoe (2023)
William Sawyer (2023)
Adam Fyle (2024)
Michael Baldwin (2024)
Tri-County EMC
James Cozine (2021)
ASSOCIATE DEGREE RECIPIENTS
Rutherford EMC
Matthew Harshman (2021)
Carteret-Craven EC Justin Williford (2023)
Surry-Yadkin EMC
Nick Newman (2024)
Co-op Scholarship Winners Reunite at Wolfpack Game
Women’s basketball camp participants were honored on the court
Stepping out on the hardwood floor of a college arena to cheers and applause raining down from the crowd is a dream come true for many young athletes.
That dream became a reality for a group of middle schoolers from across North Carolina at Reynolds Coliseum, where last summer they were practicing and playing alongside the Wolfpack Women’s basketball team.
On Dec. 8, these Touchstone Energy Sports Camp Scholarship winners — who were selected by North Carolina’s electric cooperatives to attend the NC State Women’s basketball camp this past summer — came together for a reunion and a moment of recognition.
to attend the Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp. Along with the women’s basketball camp, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives also partner with the UNC men’s basketball team to send middle school students to their annual Carolina Basketball School each summer.
“The camp challenged her to grow, not only in her basketball skills, but in her
character as well.”
“The basketball camp was a wonderful experience for my daughter, allowing her to go on campus and interact directly with Coach Wes Moore and the NC State women’s basketball team,” said Emily Williams, parent of a 2024 camp scholarship winner and teacher at Yadkin Early College High School. “The camp challenged her to grow, not only in her basketball skills, but in her character as well.”
For 22 years, North Carolina’s 26 not-for-profit electric cooperatives have awarded scholarships to young women
These scholarships cover all expenses at the overnight camps, which provide a glimpse into life on a college campus, and what it takes to be a Division I athlete.
Sharing the court with players and coaches of this caliber provides lessons and knowledge that these studentathletes can bring back to their teams and communities.
“The experience taught my daughter that hard work pays off and has offered her a firsthand glimpse at what she could achieve in the future if she continues to work hard for her dreams,” Williams added. “I am so thankful as a parent and an educator that the cooperatives afforded her this amazing opportunity. It was an experience that she will never forget.”
—Josh Conner, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives
Students: Apply Now for Basketball Camp!
Rising sixth and seventh graders can now apply for a Touchstone Energy Sports Camp Scholarship to attend basketball camp in June.
Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp NC State University
Carolina Basketball School The University of North Carolina
The best walk-in tub just got better with breakthrough technology! Presenting the all new Safe Step Walk-In Tub featuring MicroSoothe. ® An air system so revolutionary, it oxygenates, softens and exfoliates skin, turning your bath into a spa-like experience. Constructed and built right here in America for safety and durability from the ground up, and with more standard features than any other tub.
✓ Heated seat providing warmth from beginning to end
✓ Carefully engineered hydro-massage jets strategically placed to target sore muscles and joints
✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub
✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price
You’ll agree – there just isn’t a better, more affordable walk-in tub on the market.
CANINES
By
Rue Reynold | Photos by Randy Berger
It was love at first sight when Air Force and Army veteran Jeff recently met his new service dog Carter.
“
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role at Canines for Service is witnessing the moment a client is finally paired with their service dog.”
Mary McArthur, Canines for Service
Imagine being in a situation where someone invades your personal space, leaving you frozen, jittery or panicked.
Now imagine your four-legged companion sensing your discomfort and stepping in to create distance or even guide you away.
This is just one example of how highly trained service dogs, like those provided by Canines for Service in Wilmington, help better the lives of the veterans they serve.
It began with an idea and a desire for canines to be seen as more than just companions. Canines for Service (caninesforservice.org) was founded in 1996, a nonprofit where dogs were not only friends, but healers, protectors and life-changers. What started as a small initiative blossomed into North Carolina’s longest-running, internationally accredited service dog provider, dedicated to transforming the lives of veterans through expertly trained service dogs.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role at Canines for Service is witnessing the moment a client is finally paired with their service dog,” says Development Coordinator Mary McArthur. “With an average wait time of nearly two years, the journey can often feel long and challenging, but the placement ceremony is a powerful reminder of why we do this work.”
FROM PUPS TO LIFE-CHANGERS
Service animals assist individuals with physical, mental or emotional disabilities by performing tasks that increase independence and safety at home and in public. For example, mobility assistance dogs can turn on lights, open refrigerators or position themselves to support transitions into chairs or beds. Emotional support animals comfort through companionship, while therapy animals visit health care facilities, assist with physical therapy or help keep patients safe. While both emotional and therapy animals are important, they are not trained to do specific lifeassisting tasks like service animals, nor do they have the same public access rights.
The journey of a service dog at Canines for Service begins with an excited eight-week-old puppy from a lineage of service companions, specially bred for their potential to serve. These pups live in foster homes to socialize and learn basic commands and etiquette. Once they reach eight months, they move to the nonprofit’s facility for up to 2,000 hours of specialized training. They master essential skills such as item retrieval, switching on and off lights and identifying anxious behaviors before moving on to specific tasks their future handlers will need. Trainers work with patience, love and purpose, shaping the dogs into dependable partners.
Development Coordinator Mary McArthur raises funds for the nonprofit and sometimes fosters growing pups.
For veterans, these dogs are more than helpers — they’re lifelines. For someone suffering from nightmares, the service dog may gently wake them by applying calming pressure or turning on lights if touch isn’t welcome. Veterans who have experienced personal violation in the military may rely on their dogs to create personal space or guide them out of overwhelming situations. Some service dogs even learn to respond to medication reminders or signs of distress.
The training is intense, but the results are more than worth it.
MEETING A GROWING NEED
A shining example of the organization’s work is veteran Jeff and his service dog, Carter, one of Canines for Service’s most recent placements. It was love at first sight when the two met as Jeff proclaimed, “You are my new best friend, so you’re stuck with me for life!” He wasn’t kidding. The two bonded quickly, far beyond service duties, with Carter having an acute sense of awareness to take Jeff out of uncomfortable situations or helping to retrieve items due to numbness in Jeff’s hands. Carter also knows a thing or two about deep pressure therapy, which provides amazing relief to tight muscles.
Canines for Service also offers a helping hand to those wanting to brighten someone’s day with their own companion. Its Canines for Therapy program provides training opportunities for personal pets to become therapy animals to give comfort in hospitals and care facilities.
The need for service dogs is greater than ever with Canines for Service seeing a 57% increase in applications between 2023 and 2024. While six specialized dogs were placed from 2023–2024 and another eight are projected to be placed by June 30 of this year, limited funding, resources and volunteers create challenges in meeting demand. Determined to provide service dogs and support at no cost, including travel and lodging expenses, the nonprofit relies heavily on donations, grants and community support to continue this life-changing work.
The magic of Canines for Service lies in its stories of transformation — where struggles are met with unconditional love, and hope takes the shape of four paws and a wagging tail. As Mary puts it: “Seeing the pure joy and relief on our clients’ faces when they meet their service dog for the first time is truly unforgettable.”
Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.
PROTECTING THE INTEGRITY OF SERVICE ANIMALS
Service animals play a vital role in supporting individuals with physical, mental or emotional disabilities, but misuse of service animal claims can create challenges for those who truly rely on them. Here’s how you can help:
Beware of red flags:
Î Service animals are trained to assist, not to disrupt.
Î While service animals are not legally required to wear vests or carry certificates, if someone claims to have a service animal and continuously emphasizes an ID, it could be a red flag.
If you suspect a potentially fraudulent service animal:
Î Do not confront the owner.
Î Politely ask to speak to a store manager and explain the situation to them.
Business owners can visit bit.ly/ada-service to learn more about the rights and independence of those with assistance animals, as well as associated rights as a business. Advocating for legitimate service animals ensures fair treatment for all. Visit canine.org to learn more about service dog identification and service animal masquerading.
Source: Canine Companions
The team at Canines for Service
Connect Your Smart Thermostat, Get Rewarded
Members can receive $100 this year for joining our new program
A new Connect My Thermostat offering for CCEC members puts money back in your pocket while also supporting the resilience of the power grid and achieving cost savings that benefit all co-op members.
Previously, members could purchase a smart thermostat through Connect to Save, but our program is changing. Starting Feb. 1, members who already own a smart thermostat can enroll in our new Connect My Thermostat program through our Connect to Save platform.
Eligible thermostats include Google Nest, ecobee and Honeywell Home. Members can verify their thermostats eligibility at ConnectToSaveNC.com/ eligible-thermostats. Enrolling earns you $50 upfront and $50 every year you participate in the Connect My Thermostat program.
By participating in CCEC's Connect My Thermostat program, you can earn cash rewards by allowing your co-op to occasionally make small adjustments to your thermostat setting when there is high traffic on the electric grid. These small actions multiplied across thousands of homes make power more reliable and affordable for everyone.
Joining the Connect My Thermostat program is easy!
1. Confirm Eligibility
Before you begin your application, make sure you meet these requirements:
è My thermostat is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
è My thermostat is eligible.
è I use electricity to heat and cool my home.
2. Register Your Thermostat
Visit ConnectToSaveNC.com/CCEC to apply to the program. Be sure you have your smart thermostat login info, the full address of the property where the thermostat is installed, and the full name that is listed on your electric account or power bill. We’ll walk you through the process, step by step.
You can also enroll by phone; simply call 844.577.7283. Customer service is available M-F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
3. Earn Rewards
Once your application has been approved, you’ll receive an email with details about how to redeem your initial $50 reward. On the anniversary of your enrollment each year, we’ll send another $50 reward!
At CCEC, helping you save energy and money is a priority. Connect My Thermostat is one of the many ways that we are working to keep costs low for our members. Visit ConnectToSaveNC.com/CCEC to learn more.
Be a part of something BIG!
Apply Now! Community college scholarships are available. Learn more at ccemc.com/Scholarships When you enroll in Operation RoundUP®, you are joining thousands of CCEC members who donate their spare change each month. Here’s how it works: If your bill is $114.77, it is rounded up to $115.00 — the extra 23¢ goes to Operation RoundUP®. Multiply all that extra change given by generous CCEC members and it makes a BIG difference in our local communities.
If you already participate, THANK YOU! If you are not "rounding up" and wish to add your pennies to the program, call 252.247.3107 or email customerservice@ccemc.com
To see a list of some of the organizations and programs supported by Operation RoundUP®, visit ccemc.com/RoundUP
Balancing electricity supply & demand
Electricity is essential for nearly every aspect of daily life —so essential that we rarely think about how it’s produced and delivered to our homes. You might be surprised to learn that behind the scenes, a network of experts is working daily (and even by the minute) to anticipate how much electricity you need before you even use it.
We’re all connected to the electric grid, so ensuring the right amount of electricity for all involves a complex process of forecasting energy demand, planning for capacity and securing enough supply to meet Americans’ needs.
Powerful sources
At Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative (CCEC), we work closely with North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), our local wholesale power partner, to secure enough electricity for our communities, using a diverse mix of energy sources to generate the power we deliver to your home or business. By maintaining a diverse energy mix—nuclear, natural gas, renewables, coal, and hydro—NCEMC and CCEC have options to ensure reliable power at a competitive cost.
On a larger scale, across the country, electricity supply and demand are managed through a market that includes long-term planning agreements, where electricity is bought and sold just like other common goods and services. Because CCEC works with our wholesale power partner, and sister cooperatives across the state, we are able to pool resources and expertise to deliver affordable power to our local communities.
Electricity supply changes throughout the day because demand fluctuates based on consumers’ needs. For example, CCEC knows that we need to ensure more electricity in the mornings when you’re starting your day, and in the evenings when you’re cooking dinner, running appliances and watching TV. Demand also increases when weather patterns change, such as extremely warm or cold temperatures.
Managing
supply & demand across the grid
Across the country, other electric utilities are managing the same task of balancing supply and demand, which is why we have a larger network of key players in place to ensure enough power is delivered across the grid.
In most cases, the amount of electricity generated and how much is sent to specific areas are coordinated and monitored by regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs). In other areas, individual electric utilities perform these tasks.
RTOs, ISOs and electric utilities act as air traffic controllers for the electric grid. They forecast when you, your neighbors and communities across a large region will need more power. These organizations take measured steps to ensure there’s enough supply to meet demand.
Looking ahead
As the energy sector undergoes rapid change, it’s important for all consumers to understand the basics of electricity supply and demand.
Electricity use in the U.S. is expected to rise to record highs this year and next, with the demand for electricity expected to at least double by 2050. At the same time, energy policies are pushing the early retirement of alwaysavailable generation sources, which will undoubtedly compromise reliable electricity.
CCEC remains committed to providing affordable, reliable energy to the members we serve. That’s why we are preparing now for increased demand and other challenges that could compromise our local electric supply.
Managing the balancing act of electricity supply and demand is a complex job, which is why we have a network of utilities, power plant operators and energy traffic managers in place to direct the electricity we need and keep the electric grid balanced.
CCEC grid resilience projects
In late 2024, working with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and Georgia Transmission Corporation, CCEC was selected for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) Program, established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This marks a significant step in ensuring our electric grid’s continued reliability and resilience, particularly amid increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Through this project, CCEC will modernize its transmission infrastructure to enhance efficiency, reliability, and resilience. Key improvements include increasing capacity by utilizing advanced overhead conductors and hardening transmission lines along Hibbs Road and Highway 58 from Atlantic Beach to Pine Knoll Shores. These improvements are expected to begin in 2026.
Middle schoolers: Hoop it up this summer!
We are accepting applications for full scholarships to basketball camps at two North Carolina universities this summer. Young men can apply for a scholarship to attend the Carolina Basketball School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and young women can apply for a spot at the Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp at NC State University in Raleigh. Both camps will be held in June.
Students who will be in sixth or seventh grade during the 2025-2026 school year are eligible to apply. Visit ccemc.com/SportsCamps for more information and the online application. The deadline to apply is March 31.
The Board of Directors has appointed a Nominating Committee, consisting of two members each from districts 2, 5 and 8. The committee will nominate one or more members to run for election from each of these
Candidates may also be nominated by petition of 50 or more individual co-op members from their district. Only one signature is allowed for joint accounts. The petition must be submitted and certified before 5 p.m. on February 28.
ANNIVERSARY
Planning for the 85th Annual Meeting of CarteretCraven Electric Cooperative (CCEC) is underway. We hope that you will make plans to join us on May 1 at Glad Tidings Church in Morehead City for an evening of food, prizes, and co-op business. Food service will begin at 4:30 p.m. followed by entertainment at 5:30 p.m., and business meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Director Elections
As a member of the cooperative, you have the opportunity to vote for your Board of Directors each year. CCEC’s service area is divided into nine districts. The terms for the directors from districts 2, 5 and 8 expire this year. Directors are elected for three-year terms. Incumbent directors seeking nomination are:
For District 2: Ben Ball
For District 5: Amy Lock
For District 8: Thom Styron
District Descriptions CELEBRATION
District 2 (Ben Ball, incumbent): Cooperativeserved properties in Carteret County west of Highway 70, including co-op service areas along Hibbs Road, Roberts Road and Nine Foot Road, and along Highway 24 from Dutch Treat Mobile Home Park, west through Gales Creek, Broad Creek and Bogue, up to the eastern limits of Cape Carteret.
District 5 (Amy Lock, incumbent): Covers all properties in the town limits of Emerald Isle.
District 8 (Thom Styron, incumbent): An at-large board seat held by a district representative from any part of the co-op’s service area.
For more information about the nominating committee or petitions, contact CEO Jake Joplin at 252.247.3107.
Voting for director positions, in addition to any other business conducted as part of the annual meeting, shall be done by those who have been members at least 30 days before the meeting. Each member shall have one vote regardless of number of accounts.
Bylaws Summary
To serve on the Board of Directors, members must:
Ò Have been a member for no less than two years.
Ò Receive electric service from CCEC at his or her primary residence, which must be in the director district that he or she represents.
Ò Be a United States citizen.
Ò Be at least 18 years old.
Ò Not have been declared mentally incompetent unless competency has been legally restored.
Ò Not have been convicted of a felony or any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.
Ò Not be a close relative of a CCEC employee or incumbent member of the Board of Directors, and, at the time of taking office, not be a close relative of a former member of the Board of Directors who resigned from the board or died within two years before taking office.
Ò Not be employed by or financially interested in a competing enterprise or a business selling electric energy, service, or supplies to CCEC, and not have been employed by CCEC or have previously been an officer or director of, or employed in any policy-making position by any electric membership cooperative or investor-owned electric utility company.
Full details of director qualifications are included in the cooperative's bylaws (ccemc.com/Bylaws). More information about the annual meeting can be found at ccemc.com/AnnualMeeting.
Is a mini-split system right for your home?
How would you like a personalized comfort zone within your home? One where the temperature is customized to your liking and may be different than the temperature in the shared living areas or other rooms in the house. This flexibility and customization are precisely why mini-split systems, also known as ductless air-source heat pumps, and their energy efficiency aspects are so popular.
Let’s unpack some mini-split basics and explore whether this type of system is a good choice for your home heating and cooling needs.
A mini-split system is a type of HVAC equipment used for heating and cooling, allowing you to control the temperature in individual rooms or spaces. Similar to central heating and cooling, mini-split systems have two main components—an outdoor compressor and an indoor air-handling unit(s). A narrow conduit links the indoor unit(s) to the outdoor compressor.
While central heating and cooling systems feature an indoor unit connected by ductwork, mini-splits are typically ductless. This means energy is not lost traveling through long stretches of ductwork. Installing the air-handling unit in a desired area enables you to control the temperature more precisely, reducing energy consumption. That’s because you’re adjusting the temperature to a single room rather than the whole home. Is a mini-split system right for you?
Mini-split systems are a popular option in home additions, or to supplement heating and cooling in a space that may be furthest away from the main living area. In some instances, it may not be feasible to install or extend the ductwork required in traditional central cooling and heating systems.
In contrast, mini-splits are relatively easy to install requiring a small hole for the conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor units. Most systems can handle up to four indoor rooms or zones connected to one outdoor unit. Each of the zones can be customized because each includes a thermostat that enables you to heat or cool
the space as needed, saving energy and money over time. Cool solutions
Mini-split systems bring additional benefits. They are quiet, improve indoor air quality and are typically easy to install. Many come with remotes to make temperature control even easier, and because of their smaller size, mini-split systems have many placement options for indoor and outdoor units.
One of the greatest benefits of mini-splits is that they typically have a higher SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating than traditional central heating and cooling systems. The higher the unit's SEER rating, the more energy efficient it is.
Additional considerations
According to the Department of Energy, "mini-splits cost about $1,500 to $2,000 per ton of cooling capacity. That’s about 30% more than central systems (not including ductwork) and may cost twice as much as window units of similar capacity.”
While the technology is improving, those in particularly colder climates may need a fuel backup to run a mini-split system. Aesthetics are another factor to consider, as some homeowners don’t like the appearance of the indoor units, which are more visible than central air conditioning vents. If you’re considering an upgrade or additional heating and cooling equipment, talk to a qualified technician to learn if a mini-split system could work for your home.
Fireplace Efficiency
Maximize warmth and minimize waste
By Miranda Boutelle
When I was a little girl growing up in North Carolina, I remember my dad telling me that some nights were too cold to have a fire. That always seemed crazy to me, but like many other things he said, he was right.
A heat pump heated our home. We had an open fireplace that was more suited for ambiance than creating heat. When you have a fire, warm air rises and draws the smoke out through the chimney. This also draws the warm air out of the house. This invisible force is called the stack effect.
The impact is exacerbated in drafty homes. When the warm air escapes through the chimney, it is replaced by cool air leaking in through gaps and cracks in the home. The greater the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the greater the stack effect, hence Dad’s rule of no fires on the coldest nights.
Wood fireplaces are not an efficient option to heat your home. Most of the heat goes out of the chimney. If you enjoy the comforting ambiance and curling up in front of the fireplace during the colder months, here are some tips to efficiently operate a fireplace in your home.
Because it is out of sight, it can be easy to forget to close the chimney damper. The damper should be open when you have a fire going or when any hot ashes are in the fireplace to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide
don’t come into your home. Once the fire and all ashes are fully extinguished, close the damper. Leaving the damper open allows warm air to escape, wasting energy. It’s like leaving a window open when your heating system is turned on in the winter.
If your damper doesn’t close properly or your chimney doesn’t have one, purchase a product designed for the task. There are a variety of chimney plug sizes and styles available, including inflatable options designed to fit snugly in place. While you are at the hardware store, pick up some caulking and weatherstripping to seal air leaks around windows, doors and pipes along exterior walls.
Fireplaces with gas logs are required to be installed with a mechanism that always keeps the damper open. This safety feature allows gases from the pilot light to escape. Glass doors can reduce the impact of air leakage in the winter and summer months. Consider installing glass doors on open fireplaces and keep them closed to minimize drafts.
Sealed combustion gas fireplaces are fully enclosed systems that draw the air needed for combustion from the outside. When properly installed, you get the benefit of the warmth of the fire without the worry of heat loss from drafts. If you have gas logs and enjoy the ease of a gas fireplace, consider upgrading to a sealed combustion unit.
Turning the pilot light off in the summer can reduce wasted gas. If you plan to turn the pilot light off, follow the instructions in the owner’s manual to avoid any potential safety issues.
Woodstoves and pellet stoves are additional options that provide more heat than wood or gas fireplaces. Federal tax credits are available for high-efficiency biomass stoves. A credit of 30% of the project cost — including the cost of installation up to a maximum of $2,000 — is available for products purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2023, and Dec. 31, 2032. The unit must have a thermal efficiency rating of 75% or more. Visit energystar.gov for more information.
If you have a woodstove, fireplace or any fuel-burning appliance in your home, be sure to install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be harmful or even deadly if not detected.
Use my dad’s sage advice and these tips to keep your home warm while gathering your loved ones around a glowing fire during the winter season.
This column was written by Miranda Boutelle of the Efficiency Services Group. Visit CarolinaCountry.com/your-energy for more ideas on energy efficiency.
Documenting
History
Preserving the legacy of NC’s Rosenwald Schools
By Pamela A. Keene
In the early 1900s, white children in 15 Southern states attended brick-and-mortar schools, but African American children received their education in fields, churches or ramshackle buildings. A partnership between educator and reformer Booker T. Washington and Chicago Philanthropist Julius Rosenwald changed all that.
William F. Credle.
This page and opposite: Scenes from Rosenwald Schools from around the state, likely taken in the late 1920s and early ’30s.
Rosenwald, a German-Jewish immigrant and president of Sears, Roebuck and Company, and Washington, a former slave who put himself through school to become a teacher, shared a vision to bring education to African American children.
Rosenwald created the Rosenwald Foundation that provided seed money to build community schools for African American children across the South. Washington, then president of the Tuskegee Institute, championed equality for African Americans through education.
Between 1917 and 1932, the Rosenwald Foundation brought education to African American children in many forms, from one-room wood-frame schoolhouses to two-story multiroom schools. Out of more than 5,300 Rosenwald Schools across the south, North Carolina’s original number totaled 813 — the greatest number in any state.
One hundred years later, a statewide research project is
Between 1917 and 1932, the Rosenwald Foundation brought education to African American children in many forms, from oneroom wood-frame schoolhouses to two-story multiroom schools.
seeking out these schools as a way to capture history.
“In North Carolina, we’ve undertaken an initiative to locate, document and map as many as possible, those still in use in some capacity, some still standing but vacant, and those that have fallen into severe repair,” says Sarah Woodard, survey and National Register branch supervisor for the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
“This current county-by-county project builds on decades of documentation work; it has documented records in 35 countries and confirmed the locations of nearly 200 Rosenwald sites so far.”
Of those located, almost 50 have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“However, many Rosenwald Schools have completely disappeared, and it’s nearly impossible to pinpoint where they were,” Sarah says. “In these cases, we’re doing our best, turning to local records, old maps and other resources.”
worked. The foundation typically provided an average of $2,000 to a town as a grant, requiring a match from the local school board as well as funds raised by the Black community.
“Each community received plans to build the schools, but it was up to them to come up with the materials and the labor,” Sarah explains. “Sometimes the county might supply the lumber, and in other situations members of the community would cut the wood from nearby forests to obtain the lumber. It varied quite a bit.”
The SHPO’s documentation initiative began in the 1980s; by 2002 the program expanded to add historic Rosenwald Schools to the National Register of Historic Places. Some of the buildings are still in use as community centers, training facilities or schools. Others are noted only by a historical marker.
The North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office and the NC African American Heritage Commission, both part of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, are working together on the documentation project. Other groups involved include the Conservation Trust for North Carolina and the National Trust Southern Office.
RENEWED EFFORTS
Last November, the NC African American Heritage Commission hosted the two-day Celebrating & Connecting: A Convening of North Carolina Rosenwald Schools in Raleigh, the first such conference since 2015. More than 120 people attended, from historians, community leaders, state officials and advocates.
Miranda Clinton, coordinator of the Convening for the African American Heritage Commission, sums up the event: “Attendees heard about our new digitized archives to better support our initiative, and they were able to network with other people in the state as we continue this important work. By being able to tell people about all the preservation and financial resources available to them, we
From our archives
Visit carolinacountry.com/rosenwald to learn about efforts to restore the Russell Rosenwald School in Durham County, including video interviews with former students, in an article from the September 2014 issue of Carolina Country.
hope to preserve, document and archive as many of North Carolina’s 813 Rosenwald Schools as possible before the buildings and the stories are lost.”
“The convening marshaled many people and resources involved in the Rosenwald Schools project in one place,” says John Horan, oral historian with the State Archives of North Carolina. “A lot of conversations took place to continue to build a bigger community and determine what will be happening moving forward. That’s powerful.”
As a historian who has studied school integration in North Carolina, John explains how delving into the history before the story helps illuminate the present.
“The Rosenwald Schools were a marked improvement on what the African American children had before,” he says. “They still were not as good as what white students had. Nonetheless, the Rosenwald Fund, coupled with contributions from the various communities, created schools that allowed for a major investment in their children’s education. It’s crucial that we study and remember what happened 100 years ago to sort out how we arrived where we are today.”
Pamela A. Keene is a freelance writer and photographer based in Atlanta.
Courtesy of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office/DNCR
The Castalia Rosenwald School Museum in Nash County
Free d om
SAFE HAVEN FOR
THE FREEDMEN’S COLONY ON ROANOKE ISLAND
By Donna Campbell Smith
In the beginning of the Civil War, the people of the Outer Banks and Roanoke Island were somewhat indifferent to the conflict. They wanted to go on with life as they knew it. Even though some were slave owners, they did not support the Confederacy like those living on the mainland.
That all changed on February 7, 1862, when the Northern Army, commanded by General Ambrose Burnside, took control of Roanoke Island.
The federal government declared the slaves on the island emancipated. Initially, the freed slaves were considered contraband. As the war progressed, the word “contraband” was replaced with “freedmen” by the military. The word quickly spread throughout the state that Roanoke Island was a safe haven.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
Hundreds of slaves arrived from the mainland seeking freedom. The federal government seized local land on the north side of the island to make room for the increased population, which eventually reached almost 4,000 men, women and children. The able-bodied men were recruited to join the Army. Some freedmen acted as spies, scouts and guides for the Union.
In the beginning, they took shelter wherever they could find it — abandoned Confederate barracks and other unused shacks. It was quickly apparent these people needed housing, food and medical care.
Major General John G. Foster called on the Army Chaplain, Rev. Horace James, to oversee settling the freed slaves on the unoccupied lands. Rev. James distributed
Opposite page and right:
Engravings on the "First Light of Freedom" monument at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Above: Early schools in the colony would have been similar to this Freedmen's School in New Bern (c. 1868).
tools and equipment and provided training for “living as a free and independent community.” Each family was allotted one acre of land where they could build a cabin and had room for a garden. Rev. James reported the freed slaves worked night and day, singing as they worked. By 1864 over 550 homes had been built for the 3,901 freed slaves. Schools, churches, and sawmills were constructed, and a community was born. One of the churches, Haven Creek Church, still stands today as Haven Creek Missionary Baptist Church, located at 611 Sir Walter Raleigh Street in Manteo.
A former slave woman, Martha Culling, opened the community’s first school. It is not known where she came from or her life outside of teaching at the school she organized. In March 1864, Samual Nickerson opened another school. Martha assisted Samual at the Cypress Chapel School at one of the old Confederate barracks, which had room for more students. Later more teachers arrived. Children and adults learned to read and write, which they were not allowed to do while slaves.
AFTER THE WAR
Sadly, at the end of the war, the U.S. government ordered that all of the land that had been confiscated to build the colony be returned to the original owners. Food rations were reduced, workers were never paid the wages that were owed to them or given the rights they had been promised. The population was reduced by half, as many left the island to start new lives elsewhere. Only a few families stayed on Roanoke Island. By 1887 the colony was dissolved.
Descendants of the freedmen still live on Roanoke Island today. Much of what we know about the Freedmen’s Colony is attributed to their work in preserving that history.
Joan Collins, as a descendent of one of the colony families, explains what the work to preserve the history of the Freedmens’ Colony has meant to her.
“As a descendent of those who lived on the Freedmen’s Colony, I am pleased that this story is being told,” Joan says. “It is an important part of the history of Roanoke Island and the Outer Banks, which unfortunately often is overlooked despite the area’s historical significance. The ties this story has to the historic all-Black Pea Island Lifesaving Station is also a powerful symbol of what can be achieved through determination and perseverance.”
The Pea Island Cookhouse Museum in Manteo, open for special events and by appointment, houses a collection of information about the Freedmen’s Colony. Visitors to Fort Raleigh National Historic Site (nps.gov/fora) will find a monument that briefly tells the story of the origin of the colony, as well as the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, which shares the story through interpretive signs and metal cutout silhouettes of dancing figures, signifying the joy of reaching freedom.
“Stories such as these stand as a testament to the power of hope and the relentless pursuit of freedom,” Joan says. “My connection to this history inspires me to honor those who sought freedom and to continue their fight for equality and justice.”
Donna Campbell Smith is a Carolina Country contributing writer who lives in Franklin County.
New Orleans Fun Along the NC Coast
Coastal communities celebrate Mardi Gras with all the pageantry
By Renee C. Gannon
The purple, gold and green flow throughout Beaufort, Gloucester and Oak Island each year in celebration of Mardi Gras. These local events feature parades, carnivals, Cajun food and of course, music. Mardi Gras — March 4 this year — is held just before the start of Lent, a period of fasting preceding Easter. Parades, parties and carnivals typically ramp up weeks before Ash Wednesday, with the last day of celebration held the day before, known as Fat Tuesday (or in French, “Mardi Gras”).
Gloucester
The 32nd Annual Gloucester Mardi Gras, Eastern NC’s longest-running Mardi Gras festival, will be held on Feb. 15 starting around 11 a.m. at the Gloucester Community Club on Pigott Road. Located outside of Beaufort, the community models its kid-friendly celebration after
the rural Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana. Folks come together to make gumbo and other Louisianastyle dishes, create masks, enjoy a kids’ King and Queen march, as well as a “Fool’s Procession” people’s parade for all that’s full of costumes, bead tossing, dancing and live Cajun music. The local Unknown Tongues, a Cajun zydeco band, kicks it up a notch at 3 p.m.
Festival co-founders Bryan and Barbara Blake, who are also members of Unknown Tongues, started the event as a way to give back to the community. A portion of all proceeds and cash donations goes toward a scholarship fund for local high school seniors.
“It means a lot to the community to have a free, grassroots space to have fun, eat great food, meet new friends and celebrate community; locals and nonlocals keep coming back year after year,” Barbara says. “Many people help chop ingredients for the gumbo the Friday eve before and stir the roux. Most food ingredients are donated by community members, and all the seafood is local.”
Beaufort
What started more than 10 years ago as the “World’s Shortest Parade” in downtown Beaufort has grown into a two-day event: the Beaufort Mardi Gras Carnival Weekend.
“The parade started just to get people downtown,” explains Nelson
Owens, executive director of the Beaufort Business Association. “Now we have more than 5,000 people attend, with many coming from across the state, even from South Carolina and Virginia.”
The fun kicks off with a street carnival and parade on Saturday morning, March 1. Visitors enjoy Louisiana-inspired food, music, kids’ activities, stilt walkers, jugglers, unicyclists, and more at the carnival before the parade begins at 3 p.m. The parade, complete with the Mardi Gras King and Queen, starts at Front Street at Live Oak, onto Turner Street to the Carteret-Craven Courthouse. The Cajun Cookoff will be at the Beaufort Historic Grounds on Turner Street. Saturday evening features the Masquerade Ball. The weekend winds down at the Sinners Remorse Brunch on Sunday morning.
Oak Island
Further south from the Crystal Coast at the southern tip of the NC coastline, fun is also to be had at the Oak Island Mardi Gras by the Sea Parade and Festival. The event kicks off with a Mardi Gras parade beginning on Keziah Street at 11 a.m., which ends at Middleton Park Complex on Dolphin Drive, where the fun continues with food, a crafts market, a kids' zone and music from the local Old Man Mafia band.
Renee C. Gannon is the senior associate editor of Carolina Country.
Gloucester Mardi Gras
Beaufort Mardi Gras Carnival Weekend (also top right)
Beaufort Business Association
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I Lost a Fortune at the French Races, but Fortunately I Found is Bag
e starting gate opened and 19 horses galloped o , each jockeying for the lead. While Apache, the horse I bet on, was the odds-on favorite, his rival Napoleon pulled ahead in the race’s nal seconds.
In less than a minute I lost a fortune at the Paris horseraces. After a brief moment of disbelief, something caught my eye. It seemed like every woman in Paris was carrying the same classic handbag! I had to have one for my own, so I had our handbag designers interpret this classic o er. Presenting the Parisian Chic Claire Handbag
Inspired by the equestrian gear I encountered in the stables after the race. e Claire Bag is the color of saddle leather with metal adornments that recall horse bits and stirrups. Sturdy and chic, the Claire Bag is ideal for the woman on the go. See for yourself why the Parisian Chic Claire Handbag is the toast of France!
Backed by our satisfaction guarantee, you can revel in its sophistication risk-free for 30 days. Should it fail to dazzle, return it for a full refund of the item price.
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Parisian Chic Claire Handbag
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African Violet Ailments
Troubleshoot these common issues
Story and photos by L.A. Jackson
African violets are just the right perky houseplants to comfort avid gardeners through the dead-of-winter blues. But while these potted pretties are dependable performers, they can have problems. Here are some of the more common African violet ailments and what to do about them.
Bloomless beauties: They are starving for nutrients! Regular waterings that include diluted doses (usually about one-quarter strength) of an African violetformulated fertilizer will help sustain a bloom party.
Bloomless beauties (part two): Warmth and humidity are also keys to bountiful blossom displays. For warmth, place African violets in a room where temperatures are between 65–75 degrees. Humidity will be improved by setting the pots in shallow trays of pebbles partially filled with water, meaning the tops of the rocks should be dry.
Dot, dot, dot: No, not Morse code but rather spots on leaves, which can be caused by either cold water or chlorine. Pour water directly into the soil, not on the leaves, and let it warm up to room temperature before using. Having water sit out overnight allows chlorine — common in city water — to dissipate. Using room-temperature rainwater helps dash the dots, too.
L.A.’s website of the month: North Carolina Native Plant Society (ncwildflower.org). Need help choosing the right native plants for your garden this spring? The NCNPS can ably assist. This website also has information on their eight chapters across the state, as well as an events calendar.
Dot, dot, dot (part two): Too much exposure to sunlight will also besmirch the leaves with dark spots. If the sun is your African violets’ primary light source, it should only be indirect or filtered through a sheer screen.
The bends: Fertilizer salts that build up on the rims of pots can chemically burn leaves touching the residue and cause them to curl. To beat such bends, occasionally wipe the pot rims with a wet cloth.
The bends (part two): If your African violets’ leaves are drooping, it’s time for a drink. Not for you, but rather for your thirsty plants. Strong sunlight can also cause the foliage to curl.
Rot in a pot: Root rot is the result of too much soil muck. Only irrigate when the top of the dirt feels dry and don’t set pots in saucers that can trap water. Also, when you repot, use a loose, well-draining commercial African violet soil mix.
Tilt: When symmetry goes sideways on an African violet, it is usually the result of one side of the plant being exposed to its primary light source too long. Rotating the pot a quarter turn every two weeks will take care of this out-of-kilter condition.
L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Contact L.A. at lajackson1@gmail.com
Garden To-Do’s for February
Lenten rose hellebores (Helleborus x hybridus) are winter-hardy wonders prodigiously producing displays of cute, colorful flowers that can last deep into the new spring. Even after their blossoms fade, these hellebores refuse to go away because they remain handsome 12-to 18-inch-high clumps of evergreen foliage through the whole year. They are tough beauties, too, being deerresistant and performing well in areas of dry shade. As a bonus, happy hellebores readily reseed and establish ever-expanding green mounds of pretty plants.
Large, showy ornamental grasses such as miscanthus, pampas, and pennisetum should be cut back before new growth begins. And if your beauties have become untidy brutes with neighboring plants, now is a good time to divide large clumps of these grasses.
□ Keep the bird bath free of ice if a deep freeze settles in, and continue to wash and refill it at least once a week. Speaking of refills, the bird feeder should also remain well-stocked with seed and suet.
Smart homeowners around the world have scrapped their old furnaces and air conditioners and replaced them with a WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system. That’s because geothermal comfort systems use the free, renewable energy found in your own backyard to save up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. You won’t need that old inefficient furnace or that unsightly outdoor air conditioner because a WaterFurnace system provides complete comfort for your home with a single unit. And because the system doesn’t burn fossil fuels, there are no fumes or carbon monoxide concerns. Make the smart switch to geothermal. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn more.
Oatmeal Raisin Edible Cookie Dough
Are you always tempted to nibble on cookie dough when making a batch? No more sneaking. This eggless mixture is safe to enjoy raw… just pinch and eat!
½ cup solid coconut oil or softened plant-based butter
²/₃ cup brown sugar substitute (we used Swerve)
2 tablespoons almond milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 cups almond flour
1 cup gluten-free whole grain rolled oats
¹/₃ cup sunflower seeds
½ cup raisins
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
Using a mixer, cream oil or butter with brown sugar. Blend in milk and extracts. Add remaining ingredients and continue mixing until well combined.
Store mixture in refrigerator up to a week. Or, freeze in balls to enjoy up to several months.
Note: Be sure to choose gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients. If you prefer “regular” dough, simply sub regular dairy, brown sugar and flour. If using wheat flour, be sure to heat in oven or microwave to 160 degrees before consuming to kill any potential bacteria.
Yield: About 3 cups
Digital Extra
Visit carolinacountry.com/recipes to search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient.
Recipes by Culinary Adventurist Wendy Perry (WendyPerry.com), home economist, blogger and NC food artisan, unless otherwise noted.
From Your Kitchen
Chicken Flatbreads
You simply cannot purchase a packaged flatbread half as soft and fresh as these homemade ones. Pile them high with chicken, spinach and a lemony yogurt sauce!
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
3 tablespoons Mediterranean seasoning (we used basil, thyme and parsley), divided
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat), divided
Coat thighs in 1 tablespoon olive oil, rub with 2 tablespoons seasoning and marinate overnight.
The next day, sauté or grill thighs until done, then slice thinly against the grain. Set aside.
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1½ teaspoon sugar, divided
1½ teaspoon salt, divided
2 cups flour
¾ teaspoon baking soda
¼ cup water
1 bag baby spinach or salad mix
Mix ½ cup yogurt, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon seasoning, ½ teaspoon sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt in a bowl. Keep cold.
For the flatbreads, mix together flour, soda, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon
Submit your recipe online at: carolinacountry.com/myrecipe. Contributors whose
Snuggle up with your sweeties with mugs of this caramelly, buttery deliciousness.
1 stick salted butter
6 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 tablespoon sorghum molasses
2–3 ice cubes
1 cup heavy cream
6 cups milk (we used unsweetened almond milk)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Whipped cream or marshmallows Cinnamon
Heat butter with sugar in a heavy, mediumsized saucepan over medium heat, stirring continually until butter is melted. Add molasses and continue stirring until syrup is browned and smells toasty, 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in a few ice cubes. Whisk in cream, milk and salt. Put back on burner over medium-low heat and slowly warm. Heating too fast will cause the milk to separate.
Top with whipped cream or marshmallows and a dusting of cinnamon.
Yield: About 7 cups
salt. Then add ½ cup yogurt, ¼ cup water, and 1 tablespoon olive oil, stirring until combined. Knead dough one minute until soft, then divide into 2-inch balls. Allow the dough to rest 20–30 minutes. Then roll the balls out into ¼-inch thick rounds and heat 30 seconds per side in a lightly greased, very hot pan. Place the yogurt sauce, chicken and greens into the flatbreads. Eat!
Yield: 6–8 servings
Recipe courtesy of Jessi Waugh of Pine Knoll Shores, a member of Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative
Warm Fireside Butterscotch Milk
gluten free vegan dairy free
February Events
FEB. 6–8
North Carolina Jazz Festival Hotel Ballast, Wilmington, 910-399-6536
DEC. 11 – FEB. 15
Winter Show
Art exhibition, food, beverages GreenHill Center for North Carolina Art, Greensboro 336-333-7460
JAN. 7 – FEB. 9
Moving Heaven and Earth Art exhibition Hillsborough Gallery of Arts 919-732-5001
JAN. 19 – MARCH. 16
Dome Sweet Home Luxury domes open to public Stock + Grain Assembly, High Point 336-884-7862
Karla Harris Quartet Old Theater, Oriental 252-617-2125
Participating wineries, Yadkin County 336-679-2200
Carolina Coastal Railroaders Train Show Riverfront Convention Center, New Bern 252-670-3383
FEB. 25
Robert Cray Band
Soulful blues and rock performance CoMMA Performing Arts Center, Morganton, 828-433-7469
FEB. 27 – MARCH 1
Carolina Jazz Festival Various locations, Chapel Hill 919-962-1039
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 Feb. 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 April 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 December “Where Is This” photo by Carteret-Craven Electric member Sue Hickey features the Bake, Bottle & Brew Shop and Willy Nilly Warehouse in Swansboro, during the annual Swansboro by Candlelight event. Sue adds that the hot chocolate and sweets were abundant, with all shops open and families enjoying the night. This shop lit up the night on Front Street, along the Intracoastal Waterway. A reader commented: “Many fond memories are made each year at Swansboro’s annual Christmas Flotilla where local businesses decorate for the Christmas season and families gather by the waterfront to watch decorated boats parade past with Christmas music playing.” The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Craig Williams of Emerald Isle, a Carteret-Craven Electric member.
Bruce Harris
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