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9-day/8-night exploration
7 ports of call with guided excursion options at each
All onboard meals and our signature evening cocktail hour
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Newest fleet of ships with just 90 to 180 guests
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(ISSN
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.
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.
for a Visit, Stay for
a
While Western North Carolina is open for business.
Ridge Parkway Recovery
Much of the historic scenic drive is accessible after repairs.
Along the Trail
A seasonal guide to spotting NC’s stunning spring blooms.
Favorites On the Cover
Communities in Western North Carolina continue to recover following Hurricane Helene, but there’s also fun to be had, like at the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk (wildernessrunalpinecoaster.com). Learn more and plan your next mountain adventure on page 10. Photo courtesy of Sam Dean.
Is it that time of year already? You better believe it. We need your help finding the best of the best in 10 categories, from diners and bakeries to toy stores and libraries. Nominate your favorites for a chance to win one of three $100 gift cards. See page 13 for details.
From Our Readers
Pollinator Advocate
Thank you for writing about the need for native plants (“Preserving Our State’s Beauty,” March 2025, page 4). As bee, butterfly and bird populations decline, returning original grasses and low growing flowers to powerline cuts makes sense, reducing mowing and chemical costs while supporting pollinators, including Monarch butterflies. Intricate relationships have developed over millennia between plants, animals and soils, and we benefit from those systems with fresh foods in our grocery stores. As Mr. Porter wrote in his column, “Most crops, including fruits, vegetables and nuts, depend on pollinators for healthy yields.” NC Electric Cooperatives’ efforts to restore native habitats are encouraging. Many of us can also help by selecting native bushes, grasses and flowers for container gardens and yards, and promoting tree protection and pollinator landscaping
THIS MONTH: Mountain Adventures
Each April we focus on travel destinations as folks start making plans for spring and summer vacations. In this issue, we’re exploring spots in a region that’s open for business and ready to have you back: Western North Carolina. Although recovery in the wake of Hurricane Helene has been slow going, several communities have rebuilt — learn more starting on page 10. Also, read about a special tribute to lineworkers on page 7.
—Scott Gates, editor
in our community spaces. Carolina Country magazine readers might enjoy looking online at NC Native Plant Society (ncwildflower.org), NC State University Extension’s native plant resources (bit.ly/ces-nativeplants), and state conservation group websites.
Jennifer Miller, Durham, a member of Piedmont Electric Cooperative
Editor’s note: Thank you for the feedback and for recommending those resources, Jennifer! The NC Native Plant Society was a helpful source for our article on page 24 of this issue, highlighting hikes across the state where you can spot native wildflowers in bloom.
Carolina SNAPSHOTS
Corrections to our March issue
Thank you to the safety minded readers who caught an error in our March “Quick Hits” section (page 6): carbon monoxide (CO) detectors should be maintained in your home as a precaution against the colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. Carbon dioxide (CO2) detectors are more likely found in industrial settings.
The recipe for Cauliflower au Gratin (page 22) could have been clearer. Move cauliflower from the sheet pan to a sprayed baking dish after roasting with the garlic cloves.
THEME Mailboxes
A Kathryn Ransom, Maxton
A member of Lumbee River EMC
B Brenda Linton, Aurora
A member of Tideland EMC
C James Hawthorn, Raeford
A member of Lumbee River EMC
D Clarkie Brown, Ferguson
A member of Blue Ridge Energy
E Debra Graham, Burlington
Submit your photo!
June theme: Reflections (Deadline April 20)
July theme: Selfies (Deadline May 20)
Aug theme: Cats (Deadline June 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.
Brighter Days are Ahead for WNC
By Nathan Ramsey
Hurricane Helene, the deadliest natural disaster in our state’s history, devastated many communities in Western North Carolina. This storm was costly in both personal and financial terms — more than 100 people lost their lives, and there was an estimated $60 billion in damages. Helene will go down as three times more costly than any other NC disaster. The scale and depth of this loss is difficult to comprehend.
Out of our suffering we have witnessed the generosity of people across our state and nation who have given so much to help us respond and recover. At a time when we have seen the worst, the best of humanity has come to our rescue.
“We thank everyone who has contributed to our comeback, and when you can, visit Western North Carolina so we can share our appreciation.”
The morning after the storm hit, we witnessed neighbors helping neighbors, first responders and others taking heroic steps to save lives. At least three first responders gave their life while trying to save others. We needed help far beyond what civilian resources were available, and while help never arrives as quickly as you want, when help did arrive, the sound of helicopters was constant.
After five months, WNC has made incredible progress, and each day life is generally better. Many communities are back on their feet, opening doors to visitors once more (see page 10).
If you’re considering a visit to the mountains, your support of local businesses means more now than ever.
The crater created by Helene is deep and wide. Businesses dependent on tourism have been especially hard-hit, as visitors have yet to return to WNC in numbers comparable to normal times. Our region still has the highest unemployment rate in the state after being the
lowest in NC prior to Helene. Mitchell County has seen the largest spike in jobless rates, but Buncombe isn’t far behind. More than twice as many people are without a job compared to before the storm. Many other economic indicators are improving, but we are far from normal.
Repairing our infrastructure will take years and billions of dollars. While most roads are now open, the work to rebuild the most damaged highway corridors will require herculean efforts. Our local governments are facing a cash crunch as their recovery expenses are significant, in some cases far beyond their annual budgets, and it may take years to get reimbursed. As a result of these financial challenges, towns and counties have started cutting their operating budgets and instituting hiring freezes among other cost saving measures.
Rebuilding thousands of homes and keeping businesses open isn’t easy. But mountain people have a history of resilience, and we take care of each other. That special bond will see us through the dark days, as recovery isn’t always an upward journey.
We thank everyone who has contributed to our comeback, and when you can, visit Western North Carolina so we can share our appreciation. With continued support from federal and state governments, the faith community, philanthropy and volunteers, brighter days are ahead for Western North Carolina.
Nathan Ramsey grew up in Fairview in Buncombe County. He is executive director of the Land of Sky Regional Council.
A PR i L Quick Hits
Don’t Be Fooled!
Tax Day is April 15, but avoid related scams: The IRS never emails about the status of tax refunds.
Easter Feast
Plan ahead for Easter by visiting carolinacountry.com/ recipes, where you can search recipes for deviled eggs, crowdpleasing main dishes and hundreds of dessert options.
Passover Treats
Celebrating Passover?
We’ve got you covered there, too: visit carolinacountry.com/passover for dessert options that don’t contain chametz.
Sun Safe
As you head outside, wear broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15. The sun protection factor (SPF) rates how well sunscreen filters out UV rays — higher numbers equal more protection. Source: CDC
Register for a ‘Pop-up’ Co-op Leadership Camp
The Cooperative Council of the Carolinas (CCC), formerly the Cooperative Council of North Carolina, has expanded its scope to advocate for co-ops in both North and South Carolina. The Council was founded in 1935 as the Farmers’ Cooperative of North Carolina, and has since evolved to serve all sectors of co-ops.
“This change reflects the true spirit of cooperation among co-ops across state lines,” said CCC Executive Director Sara Coats. “We’ll work to create new connections and opportunities for collaboration among all of our members. By working cooperatively, I truly believe we can improve our communities.”
Pee Dee Electric linemen helped 2024 campers experience a day in the life of a lineworker.
In support of serving a broader membership through its mission to educate, connect and promote co-ops, CCC has also reenvisioned its Cooperative Leadership Camp. Based on feedback and current needs, this year’s camps will be held across five locations, spanning two days each, with no overnight component.
“These pop-up regional camps will allow us to reach a wider group of
quality participants, increase accessibility and reduce costs,” Coats said. “Campers will continue to work and play while learning the value and benefits of the cooperative movement with hands-on workshops led by cooperative businesses in various regions and across multiple industries, including electric co-ops.” Camps will be held throughout June in Raleigh, Statesville, Ahoskie, Spartanburg (South Carolina) and Hartsville (South Carolina). All camps will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, and students are responsible for their transportation. Visit carolinascouncil.coop to register by May 2.
Union Power Cooperative
Honors Lineworkers Through Sculpture
This, month, Monroe-based Union Power Cooperative is unveiling a meaningful tribute to the strength and perseverance of electric cooperative lineworkers. To recognize their unwavering commitment and sacrifices, Union Power commissioned an artist to create a bronze sculpture replicating a lineman in action.
North Carolina sculptor Stephen Smith had the honor of crafting “The Lineman” sculpture. (Learn more about Smith on page 22.)
“This statue is more than an art piece; it is a tribute that reflects the dedication of all linemen — past, present and future,” Smith said.
Each April, electric cooperatives nationwide celebrate lineworkers, the backbone of our communities, who ensure electric co-op members’ homes, schools, and businesses are powered
with reliable power. Their work requires extensive skills, continuous training and dedication to meet member needs. Despite the challenges they may face, lineworkers are always ready to assist, no matter the time of the day.
“Our linemen do more than maintain power lines — they keep our communities powered,” said Union Power Executive Vice President and General Manager Greg Andress. “This sculpture is our way to say thank you for their hard work, and their sacrifice is never overlooked.”
— Emily Aldridge, communications/ public relations specialist for Union Power Cooperative
Huneycutt
COME FOR A VISIT
Stay for a while
By Vanessa Infanzon
The mountain towns of Western North Carolina are mostly open for business and are excited to welcome visitors for dining, music, recreation and more. After the damage caused by Hurricane Helene, tourism stopped, leaving a serious dent in revenue. Local attractions and the people who keep them operating depend on visitors’ dollars.
“These small, locally owned businesses are truly the lifeblood of our region,” says Mitch Bearden, the chief communications officer with Haywood Electric Membership Cooperation. “The impact (of the storm) really can’t be understated. It was far reaching; it had its effects economically, emotionally.”
Mitch recommends supporting WNC’s economy by hiring a local guide for fishing or hiking and shopping and eating meals at local establishments. Financial donations,
rather than clothing and food, are preferred. If you’re willing to donate time, organizations such as Beloved Asheville (belovedasheville.com) can connect you to ongoing projects. It’s possible some of your favorite spots may not look the same — do your research before heading out. Visit NC (particularly visitnc.com/western-nc-recovery) is a valuable resource for planning ahead. And although Carolina Country selected these eight towns to highlight, dozens more in WNC are ready to welcome guests.
WNC IS @DestinationMcDowell
Visit Haywood
Visit Haywood
Visit Haywood
Visit Haywood
BANNER ELK AVERY COUNTY
Head to Banner Elk for Art on the Greene, an annual event on Memorial Day weekend. Forty to 60 local and regional artists display a variety of media, including ceramics, jewelry and watercolors. The festival returns throughout the summer.
Enjoy Banner Elk Café’s indoor and patio dining, a rustic lodge bar and espresso bar. Country Bumpkin Candles & Boutique is ready for shoppers, despite losing its inventory in the storm. Tour Apple Hill Farm, a working alpaca and llama farm. Add a dose of excitement with a ride on the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.
bannerelk.com
Stop at Blue Moon Books, Papertown Coffee and Southern Porch in downtown Canton. Blooming flowers and artisan products make Ten Acre Garden’s Spring festival on May 3 a must-see. Listen to live music and grab local produce from the Milltown Farmers Market, every Thursday from 4–7 p.m., May 15 through Oct. 30. Cold Mountain Music Festival, May 30 through June 1, features musicians including American Aquarium and Melissa Carper.
The 7.5-mile moderate out and back hike on the Flat Laurel Creek Trail will treat you to two waterfalls. cantonnc.com
Burnsville’s downtown hosts Saturdays Around the Square: Enjoy a family picnic and browse the shops and galleries. The NuWray Restoration Shindig, a grand reopening event will be in early to mid-May, celebrating the hotel’s restoration. Scan the night sky at a community viewing event at the Bare Dark Sky Observatory and Planetarium. Walk to Roaring Fork Falls, an easy 1.3-mile, out and back hike.
townofburnsville.org
CANTON HAYWOOD COUNTY
BURNSVILLE YANCEY COUNTY
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster Visit
Haywood
HIGHLANDS MASON COUNTY
Highlands has a reputation for dining and shopping, and adding to this are the town's newest businesses, Highlands Supper Club, Stubborn Buddha, and Western Carolina Brew and Wine.
Plan a visit during High Style, a celebration of art, cuisine, fashion and music, on May 17 or Highlands Motoring Festival, a tribute to motor vehicles, from June 12–15.
Explore the path behind Dry Falls, a 75-foot waterfall on the Cullasaja River in the Nantahala National Forest. highlandschamber.org
FOREST CITY RUTHERFORD COUNTY
Follow the murals and statues throughout Forest City to learn what’s important to the town. The Rutherford County Farm & History Museum highlights 30 years of agricultural history.
Catch the Thermal Belt Rail Trail, an almost 14-mile paved trail, from downtown Forest City. Catch a show or enjoy the splash pads at the Pavilion On Park Square (POPS), completed in 2019. townofforestcity.com
LANSING ASHE COUNTY
Find your groove at The Liar’s Bench or the Old Orchard General Store — both offer live music. The Molly Chomper Cidery, The Squirrel & Nut and The Log Cabin provide shopping and sustenance for a spring day.
In June and July, pick your own lavender at Good Ashe Lavender Farm. Blueberries become available in late June at the Old Orchard Creek Blueberry. The walking trails and new playground are open at Lansing Creeper Trail Park. Reel in trout on a 2.5-mile section of Big Horse Creek, accessed from the park.
lansingnc.us
Greg Newington
Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority
Germain Media
Little Switzerland’s beautiful views from Switzerland Inn provide a peaceful setting with few distractions and much ambience. The neighboring town of Spruce Pine hosts the Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival with blacksmith demonstrations and blacksmith vendor booths on April 26. Emerald Village brings mining to life with the NC Mining Museum, The Gemstone Mine and gold panning. visitlittleswitzerland.com
Peruse the Original Mast General Store and Mast Store Annex in Valle Crucis (pronounced “Valley Kru-sis”), an iconic stop in WNC. The Valle Tavern at the historic Mast Farm Inn offers a plated three-course dinner available to the public on Fridays and Saturdays. Music in the Valle kicks off at Valle Crucis Community Park on the third Friday of May and features free (donation-suggested) performances by local musicians. Run along the Watauga River at the Valle Crucis Community Park, or hike to Crab Orchard Falls, a 1.3-mile “lollipop” loop to the falls.
bit.ly/valle-crucis
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.
Carolina Country is proud to offer up our annual Carolina’s Finest Awards, showcasing the best North Carolina has to offer. We’re leaving it up to you, our readers, to pick the best of the best! We’re taking nominations now through May 15. We’ll announce three finalists in each category in our July 2025 issue for another chance to vote (and another chance to win a $100 gift card).
LITTLE SWITZERLAND MCDOWELL AND MITCHELL COUNTIES
VALLE CRUCIS WATAUGA COUNTY
@DestinationMcDowell
VisitNC.com
Don’t miss out on your favorite content, including the best
rate adjustment
Effective April 1, an adjustment will be made to all Central Electric general service, residential, commercial and security light billing rates. The rate adjustment is necessary to meet increasing wholesale power costs being handed down through the wholesale power market, as well as increased operating and maintenance related costs experienced by the cooperative.
As a not-for-profit cooperative owned by the members, Central Electric takes all necessary steps to ensure affordable power. Operating as close to at-cost as possible, rates are set to generate enough revenue to purchase power and provide exceptional service to the membership.
Beginning with bills received on or after April 1, residential accounts will notice an increase of 7% in the kWh rate and an increase of $3.00 in the basic facility charge which will change from $31.00 to $34.00 each month.
or
Based on the average all-electric residential consumer that uses 1,400 kWh in one billing period, the average member can expect an increase of approximately $15.10.
While a rate adjustment is necessary at this time, your cooperative is continually seeking ways to provide affordable and reliable power to its members at the most competitive cost, now and into the future.
POINT OF VIEW
The cost of producing power
From the desk of CEO & General Manager Eddie Oldham
Thank you for your trust in Central Electric. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and remain committed to navigating these challenges together.
At Central Electric, we understand how essential reliable electricity is to our members, and we are committed to ensuring your power remains both dependable and affordable. Providing reliable service, restoring power quickly when outages occur, and controlling costs for our members remain our top priorities. However, external factors continue to impact affordability. Over the past decade, shifting market dynamics and energy policies have required utilities to reduce carbon emissions, primarily through the retirement of coal plants and an increase in renewable energy sources.
One of the biggest challenges we face is the transition away from traditional, cost-effective power generation sources at a pace that outstrips the availability of reliable replacements. While solar and renewable energy play an important role in our energy mix, they are inherently weatherdependent. That’s why we’re working with our network of cooperatives in North Carolina to explore solutions like battery storage to enhance grid reliability. However, widespread adoption of battery storage remains cost-prohibitive at current prices. Balancing reliability, affordability, and sustainability is achievable, but we will continue to advocate for responsible energy policies at both the state and federal levels to protect the interests of our members.
In addition to the increasing costs of power generation and transmission, we’re also seeing significant price hikes for the materials needed to maintain our grid. Essential components such as transformers, wire, and crossarms have doubled in price, leading to financial pressures on electric cooperatives nationwide.
As a result, Central Electric must implement a rate adjustment to sustain reliable service. Effective April 1, all members will see a 7% increase in the kWh energy charge. The basic facility charge will also increase by $3.00, changing from $31.00 to $34.00 per month. For a residential member using 1,400 kWh in a given month, this will result in a net increase of $15.10 per month.
These adjustments reflect the rising costs of wholesale power and the expenses incurred in maintaining and strengthening our electric system. While we never want to bring news of rate increases, these changes are necessary to ensure the long-term financial stability of our cooperative. The current energy landscape presents challenges beyond our control, but we remain dedicated to managing costs as effectively as possible on behalf of our members.
As a not-for-profit cooperative, every dollar we collect goes directly into providing and improving the service you rely on. Even with these adjustments, we are dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to our members.
We understand that rate increases can be a concern, and we encourage you to reach out with any questions. Thank you for your trust in Central Electric. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and remain committed to navigating these challenges together.
Until next time,
A full house of energy savings
ATTIC
In many homes, attic insulation is one of easiest, least expensive and most effective ways to reduce your energy use. Insulation is rated by R-value, which is a measure of its ability to resist heat flow. In our region, it is recommended that your attic space have a level of R-38, or 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.
DEN/OFFICE
Plug all electronic gadgets such as phone and laptop chargers, printers, gaming consoles and other devices into a power strip with an on/off switch. When not in use, turn the power strip off to eliminate all those energy vampires.
BEDROOM
Ceiling fans can help save energy all year long! In the summer, fans should rotate counter clockwise to push air down creating a cooling flow. In the winter, fans should rotate clockwise to help draw cool air up toward the ceiling and push the warm air that naturally rises down to you and your family.
LIVING ROOM
Smart thermostats learn how you and your family live, and automatically adjust the temperature settings based on your lifestyle to keep you comfortable while saving you money.
BATHROOM
Take a short shower instead of a bath. Short showers use much less water, and you’ll also save energy by not heating all that extra water!
KITCHEN
Make sure your burner isn’t bigger than the pan, and use flat-bottomed pans to maximize surface contact with the burner. Don’t preheat the oven until you’re ready to use it. Minimize the number of times you open and close the refrigerator or oven door.
Celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day April 14
“Whereas linemen leave their families and put their lives on the line every day to keep the power on; Whereas linemen work 365 days a year under dangerous conditions to build, maintain and repair the electric infrastructure; Whereas linemen are the first responders of the electric cooperative family, getting power back on and making things safe for all after storms and accidents; and Whereas there would be no electric cooperatives without the brave men and women who comprise our corps of linemen; Therefore be it resolved that NRECA recognize the Second Monday of April of each year as National Lineman Appreciation Day and make available to electric cooperatives, materials and support to recognize the contributions of these valuable men and women to America’s Electric Cooperatives.” (NRECA)
Help us celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 14. Use the social media tag #ThankALineworker to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock on the lines as well as behind the scenes to keep the power flowing and lights on at our homes.
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CONTACT
Phone: (919) 774-4900
Bill Payment: (866) 488-5011
Eddie
Oldham
CEO & General Manager
Rebecca G. Cogan, President
Tommy Dalrymple, Vice President
James B. Brooks, Secretary-Treasurer
W. Phillip Thompson, Asst. Secretary
Charles E. Cameron, Sr., Dr. Nancy G. Holmes, Henry Outz, Tim Priest and Henry Randolph.
Conni Tucker, Editor
(877) 766-6769 24-hours a day (919) 774-4900
Text ‘PWR’ to opt-in and ‘OUT’ to report an outage FOLLOW US CEMCPower.com @cemcpower
Prep Now for Summer Savings
Beat the heat with springtime planning
By Miranda Boutelle
Spring is in the air, and before you know it, summer will be here. There are many ways to get a jump-start on preventing summertime high bills and energy waste.
Add your cooling equipment to the spring-cleaning checklist. An annual tune-up by a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) professional should include refrigerant charge, airflow adjustment and condenser and evaporator fan coil cleaning. This helps maximize your system’s efficiency and the lifespan of your equipment, reducing wasted energy and costs.
Some HVAC companies offer discounts for cleaning equipment during the months when they are less busy. Once high temperatures hit, they are more likely to be swamped with calls to repair or replace broken equipment. Signing up for an annual maintenance plan may provide additional savings.
A dirty furnace filter can waste energy by causing your system to work harder. Make sure you have a stack of replacement filters ready to go so you are more likely to replace them as needed. Filters tend to be less expensive if you buy them in bulk. When I recently shopped for filters for my home, the per-filter price was about half as much for a 12-pack as it was for a two-pack.
Ductless heat pumps, also known as mini-splits, have a filter in the indoor unit, or head, which should be
cleaned. If you clean the indoor filter yourself, be sure to turn the unit off before removing the filter and let it dry completely before putting it back.
As we transition from cool to warm weather, keep an eye on your thermostat settings. You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by adjusting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees from its normal setting for eight hours a day. (For HVAC systems equipped with a heat pump and electric resistance furnace, it’s best to maintain a constant thermostat temperature when winter rolls around to avoid engaging costly emergency heat strips.)
One way to feel cooler is using fans in the room you’re in during the day or when you’re sleeping. Using a fan can make a warm room feel cooler without having to adjust the thermostat. Remember: fans cool people, not rooms. Turn fans off in unoccupied rooms.
If your ceiling fan has a reverse function, make sure you flip the switch so it rotates counterclockwise, directing air down into the living space. The reverse function is great at circulating warm air in the winter, and you can maximize the comfort benefit of a fan by switching the flow of air seasonally.
Another consideration before summer hits is your home’s impact on peak load — when demand for electricity is highest. This typically occurs in the morning when people are getting ready for work and school, and in the evening when they return home. Your electric cooperative must manage the energy use of all its consumers, which can be a challenge. Consider starting the dishwasher before you go to sleep or starting a load of laundry outside of your utility’s peak times.
If you have a photovoltaic solar system, run your dishwasher or do laundry when your system produces the most electricity, which is typically during the sunny mid-day.
Cooking outdoors in summer is a great way to save energy. Using the stove or oven heats your kitchen, which requires more energy for cooling. Get the grill cleaned now so that you are ready to enjoy outdoor cooking.
Incorporate these tips into your summer prep to save energy and lower your bills.
This column was written by Miranda Boutelle of the Efficiency Services Group. Visit CarolinaCountry.com/your-energy for more ideas on energy efficiency.
RECOVERY Blue Ridge Parkway
Much of the historic scenic drive is accessible after repairs
By Pamela A. Keene
What is the highest peak in the Eastern United States? The deepest gorge east of the Grand Canyon? How about the highest waterfall this side of the Rockies? The answers are at the end of this article, but here’s one fact about all of them: you’ll find them all in North Carolina along or just off one road, the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Although much of the beloved parkway was damaged by the high winds and flooding brought by Tropical Storm Helene last September, significant restoration progress is being made. News from communities along the parkway is positive, and since late 2024, many of the towns have been encouraging people to visit as access has opened up.
North Carolina officials in the 17 counties that the Blue Ridge Parkway traverses in the state have been keeping up with status of businesses and tourism destinations along the parkway.
“Asheville, Bryson City, Boone and most other destinations across the North Carolina mountains are eager to welcome visitors,” said Wit Tuttell, Visit NC’s executive director. (See
page 10 for more destinations.)
Officials in Boone in the High Country concur.
“Our ski season was good this winter, and we’re working hard to get the word out that we’re open for business,” says Wright Tilley, executive director of Explore Boone. “Some sections of the parkway are still closed because of the damage [as of mid-February] and some winter weather closures, but we’re all looking forward to spring as more access is opened.”
Birth of an Icon
The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, an iconic unit of the National Park Service, began in the early 1930s as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” public works
initiative to help put Americans to work during the Depression. Its purpose was to connect Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via a scenic highway through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The parkway was designed to create parks and recreational areas that showcased the natural beauty and diversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stanley Abbott, chief architect for the project, had a vision: “… to fit the parkway into the mountains as if nature had put it there.”
In September 1935, ground was broken near Cumberland Knob, North Carolina, creating road construction, recreation areas and landscaping. With nearly 170 miles completed, construction was interrupted during World War II. From 1946 through 1966, the majority of the parkway was completed; all but 7.7 miles were finished.
In 1983, work commenced on the final 7.7 miles, including the 1,243foot Linn Cove Viaduct. It would take four years and 153 pre-cast concrete
As a national treasure, the parkway captures the stories of our Appalachian history and heritage.”
segments to complete the route along Grandfather Mountain that opened in 1987.
Restoring former glory
The National Park Service continues work repairing and restoring the Blue Ridge Parkway, and by mid-February, more than 310 miles of the 469-mile parkway have reopened. Approximately 217 miles in Virginia are open, but additional repair and clean up work continues in North Carolina.
“More places along the parkway are being opened to visitors,” says Angie Chandler, executive director of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. “Millions of people experience the Blue Ridge Parkway each year. It is not just because it’s a breath-taking drive that links the region to our people, heritage and culture.”
“As a national treasure, the parkway captures the stories of our Appalachian history and heritage,” she says. “Gateway communities and surrounding areas are rich with Cherokee culture, craft artisans,
traditional music, farming and foodways, as well as many recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, fishing and whitewater rafting. All of this is set amidst a beautiful mountain landscape.”
As spring and summer approach, more sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway will be open. The NPS website provides current information and updates about progress of ongoing repairs and restoration, including anticipated project completion dates (see “Plan your drive”).
“We’re encouraging people to check with tourism offices and other local experts who can provide accurate information about the current conditions in any given place,” Wit says. “Our website — VisitNC.com — is a good place to start. There’s a Western North Carolina Travel Update with information and an interactive map that helps people connect with destinations that have recovered and those that need more time.”
Pamela A. Keene is a freelance writer and photographer based in Atlanta.
Plan your drive
Visit bit.ly/brp-status for up-to-date alerts, closures and parkway conditions on an interactive map.
Epic sights answer key:
HIGHEST PEAK: Mountain Mitchell, mileposts 344 and 376.6
DEEPEST GORGE: Linville Gorge, milepost 316
HIGHEST WATERFALL: Whitewater Falls, Jackson County
Digital Extras
Visit carolinacountry.com/extras to watch a brief documentary on the history of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Appalachian Memory Keepers.
National Park Service
Washout under
Casting History in Bronze
Stephen Smith applies ancient technique to modern subjects
By John Huneycutt
In a quiet workshop nestled on a farm in Marshville, sculptor Stephen Smith meticulously shapes clay into life. With intense focus, he has spent over four decades perfecting his craft, bringing historical figures, wildlife and even the spirit of movement to life through sculpture. His work is not merely about capturing a likeness — it’s about embodying his subjects’ essence, personality and energy, ensuring each piece tells a deeper story.
Born in 1955 in Wilmington, Stephen was surrounded by the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state, which profoundly influenced his artistic sensibilities. From an early age, he was drawn to history, storytelling and the power of visual representation. His educational journey further shaped his craft: he studied architecture, earned a degree in art history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, pursued adaptive reuse (environmental and interior design), and later completed a Master of Fine Arts in sculpture from UNC Greensboro. Since turning his passion into a profession in 1982, Stephen has been recognized for his exceptional anatomical accuracy and dynamic compositions. His extensive research into each subject — their body language, personality and historical context — allows him to breathe life into bronze, ensuring that his sculptures transcend form to become narratives in metal.
After spending years in Atlanta, Stephen returned to his home state in
1994, settling on a farm in Marshville where he expanded his artistic focus to include horses and wildlife. His work is collected privately, displayed on university campuses, and commissioned for public installations nationally and internationally.
Mastering an ancient art Stephen’s creative process is deeply rooted in the ancient technique of lost-wax casting, or cire perdue, a method that has been used for over 6,000 years. This technique involves creating a detailed wax model, encasing it in a heat-resistant material, and then melting the wax away, leaving a perfect cavity to be filled with molten bronze. Once cooled and solidified, the mold is broken away, revealing a finely detailed sculpture. This labor-intensive process, though ancient, allows for unmatched intricacy and realism, perfectly suited to Stephen’s meticulous craftsmanship.
One of Stephen’s most celebrated works is the Wright Brothers First Flight Centennial Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, which features seven life-sized bronze figures alongside a full-scale stainless-steel replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer, weighing 10,000 pounds. Meticulous details, including the bronze-cast motor and camera used to capture the historic flight, invite visitors to step back in time and
Digital Extras
to
the artist at work while creating this impressive sculpture for Union Power.
experience the dawn of aviation.
Stephen has also sculpted figures of Martin Luther King Jr., Benjamin Newton Duke, Benjamin Franklin and Maya Angelou, among others. His ability to capture not just the physical likeness but the very spirit of these figures has made his work a mainstay in universities, national parks, and corporate collections.
Most recently, Monroe-based Union Power Cooperative commissioned Stephen to create a monumental lineman sculpture as a tribute to the dedicated professionals who ensure the delivery of electricity to homes and businesses (see page 7).
A legacy cast in bronze
For Stephen Smith, sculpture is more than an artistic endeavor. It is a celebration of human resilience, history and progress, captured in bronze for generations to come. Each of his sculptures tells a story, inviting viewers to engage with history in a tangible, lasting way.
With every piece, Stephen continues to shape the legacy of North Carolina and beyond, ensuring that the stories of visionaries, warriors and dreamers live on — not just in memory but in timeless bronze.
John Huneycutt, CCC, is digital media coordinator for Union Power Cooperative.
John Huneycutt
BlossomS
Along the Trail
A SEASONAL GUIDE TO SPOTTING NC’S STUNNING SPRING BLOOMS
By Rue Reynold
SPRING
TRANSFORMS NORTH CAROLINA’S trails into a living canvas, with wildflowers painting the landscape in brilliant hues. For hikers, following the wildflower season adds excitement and a deeper connection to nature. From the mountains to the coast, each region offers unique blooms throughout the season.
EARLY SPRING AWAKENINGS
As winter loosens its grip, the first blooms emerge in shaded forests. Trillium thrives along mountain trails like Boone Fork near Grandfather Mountain. These elegant three-petaled flowers can appear in white, pink or red, and flourish in rich, undisturbed soil.
In the Piedmont, bloodroot signals the arrival of spring along the Occoneechee Mountain Loop in Eno River State Park. Its delicate white flowers possess bright yellow centers, opening only in daylight. Its red sap was also once used as dye.
Along the coastal plains, yellow jessamine, a golden, trumpet-shaped vine, weaves through trees and shrubs. Found along Goose Creek State Park’s sandy trails, its fragrant blooms attract bees and butterflies, adding vibrancy to the lowland forests.
MID-SPRING IN BLOOM
By mid-spring, wildflowers spread beyond the forest floor into meadows and hillsides. In the mountains, the flame azalea ignites Craggy Pinnacle Trail with fiery orange and red blossoms. These striking flowers, often mistaken for exotic plants, thrive on rocky ridges and are a favorite of hummingbirds.
Rhododendrons on Jane Bald along the Appalachian Trail in Cherokee National Forest.
Meanwhile, wild blue phlox forms clusters of soft purple along the shady hillsides of the Piedmont. Hikers on the Uwharrie National Recreation Trail will find these blooms carpeting the forest floor, providing nectar for native bees. Near the coast, spiderwort adds deep blue hues to grassy fields and open woodlands. At Carolina Beach State Park, these resilient flowers bloom in the morning and fade by afternoon, only to rebloom the next day.
THE SEASON FINALE
Late spring brings a final wave of brilliant color before summer’s heat takes hold. Catawba rhododendron dominates Roan Mountain’s Appalachian Trail, forming tunnels of pink and purple blossoms that reach peak bloom by late May.
In the Piedmont, black-eyed Susans brighten trailsides and meadows with their golden petals. At Raven Rock State Park, these sun-loving flowers thrive along rocky paths, providing a cheery contrast to the rugged terrain.
Among the coastal wetlands, swamp rose mallow stands out with large, hibiscus-like pink blooms. Hikers on the Neusiok Trail in Croatan National Forest will find these striking flowers flourishing near streams and marshy boardwalks, offering a colorful farewell to spring.
Find more native blooms to discover on your next hike at NCWildflower.org.
Trillium
Bloodroot
Black-Eyed Susan
Swamp Rose
Spiderwort
Flame Azalea
Rue Reynold is the editorial assistant for Carolina Country magazine.
Jean Woods
Bettina Darveax
Mark Rose
C Paynter
Larry Mellichamp Adobe
Worth the Wait
Ginger lilies reward patient gardeners
Story and photos by L.A.
Jackson
Looking for instant results from your new spring garden? Ginger lilies (Hedychium sp.) are not for you. These handsome herbaceous, deer-resistant perennials grown from rhizomes will wait … and wait … until the soil embracing them underground is warm enough before sprouting, meaning late spring. Then, their flower show won’t even start until midsummer, so you have to wait … and wait … even more.
Well, I don’t mind being patient with these pretties because when ginger lilies finally do bloom, it’s a doozy of a show. The plants themselves are tropical-looking treats ranging from 3 to 6 feet tall with large, blade-shaped leaves that can stretch up to 2 feet long and about 6 inches wide. Their flower parade is an extended progression of small orchid-like, fragrant blooms with extra-long stamens on clustered stems.
For maximum visual pleasure from a ginger lily flower-fest, this beauty needs plenty of sun. However, since it is not a trooper when it comes to dry conditions typical in sunny sites, soil preparation is important to help conserve ground moisture. So, mix in gobs of homemade compost or a quality commercial topsoil — enough to actually raise the planting bed. This will help improve drainage and prevent mucky conditions, which is a perfect playground for rhizome rot. Mulch will, of course, also help even out soil moisture. Compost is a great organic ground cover to use because it can also slowly feed nutrients into the soil. This is important because, while ginger lilies are pretty, they are pigs when it comes to nutrients. If you don’t use compost for mulch, a low-nitrogen, time-release or organic fertilizer will help feed their needs.
L.A.’s website of the month: Wayside Gardens (waysidegardens.com) is based in Hodges, South Carolina, and is one of the premier Southern mail-order nurseries for edible and ornamental plants ranging from abelias to zantedeschias.
Garden
To-Do’s for April
As far as ginger lily choices go, there are enough to make your head spin. The white ginger lily (Hedychium coronarium), a fairly easy find, shines with perfumed, pale flowers. Want more bling? Many common Hedychium coccineum cultivars oblige with upright, spiked racemes bedecked in blooms ranging from yellow to orange to reddish hues. Want even more bling? Add variegated foliage to the eye candy with picks such as “Dr. Moy,” “Tahitian Flame,” or “Vanilla Ice.”
Long column short: Ginger lilies come in a wide range of pretty, so paying attention to their water and nutrient needs will make them showstoppers in the summer garden — and well worth the wait.
L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Contact L.A. at lajackson1@gmail.com
The spring weather is warming nicely now, but if you are itching to start your summer veggie patch, remember, soil temperatures are very important, too. And since ground temps take more time to rise, Piedmont and Coastal gardeners should probably hold off planting lima beans, cucumbers, snap beans, peppers, squash and tomatoes until the middle of this month, while growers in the western part of the state need to wait until at least the end of April. Also, since they are true heat lovers, I usually hold off on planting okra, pumpkins, eggplant and watermelons until May.
Houseplants outside for a summer vacation? Keep them in light shade so intense sun rays won’t burn tender foliage. Also, use a diluted solution of liquid fertilizer instead of granular nutrients because moisture in potted plantings quickly evaporates in the great outdoors, and dry fertilizer in dry soil is root burn waiting to happen.
□ Regular rains are, of course, beneficial to any garden, but how do you know when Mother Nature provides too little, or even too much? Invest in a simple rain gauge and an easy-to-use soil moisture meter to help fine-tune your garden’s irrigation needs.
Plant peppers this month for an abundant summer harvest.
Ginger lily is a blooming beauty.
NORTH AMERICA’S #1 Selling Walk-In
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✓ 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.
Chimichurri Two Ways
As we step into spring, it’s time to lighten up our plates. Freshly made Argentinian chimichurri brightens up most anything. You’ll want to use only fresh herbs for this one.
Green Chimichurri
6 large cloves garlic
2 cups flat leaf parsley, packed
1½ cups cilantro, packed
½ cup fresh oregano, packed
¼ cup red onion, roughly chopped
6 radishes
1 large shallot
2–3 green onions (white and green)
Dressing
1 cup olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons citrus juice (we used lime and orange)
Zest of orange and lime
Recipes by Wendy Perry unless otherwise noted. Learn more about Wendy at WendysHomeEconomics.com
Red Chimichurri
2 heaping tablespoons roasted red pepper, diced
2 heaping tablespoons sundried tomatoes in oil
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
Pulse the green chimichurri ingredients in a food processor just a couple of times until roughly chopped. Then remove half of that mixture and gently pulse in the red chimichurri ingredients. Pulse dressing ingredients separately, divide between the two mixtures and stir to combine each.
Serve at room temperature. Refrigerate up to a week. Can be frozen in cubes and later spooned over meats, cheeses, eggs, pasta, salads, tacos and vegetables.
Yield: About 3–4 cups
Digital Extra
Visit carolinacountry.com/recipes to search more than 1,000 recipes by name or ingredient.
From Your Kitchen
JoJo’s Carrot Cake
“This is my grandmother’s recipe that I have been making for 25 years. It is the most delicious carrot cake ever and the number one request in my family!”
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 can (16-ounce) crushed pineapple, drained
2 cups carrots, finely grated
2 small jars of carrot baby food
1 package (8-ounce) cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 stick butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons whipping cream
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream together sugar, eggs and oil. Add in flour through baking soda, just until mixed. Fold in the raw carrots, baby food and pineapple. Bake in two 8-inch pans (greased and floured) for 50 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Do not overbake.
To make the icing, beat together cream cheese, vanilla and butter until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and beat until creamy, adding cream as
Who doesn’t love melty toasty cheese!? We’ve Americanized this Argentinian dish that came their way via an Italian. Use a skillet on the grill, stovetop or in the oven.
Provolone cheese rounds, ½–¾-inch thick (cut in deli)*
Beaufort Wine & Food Festival Various locations, Beaufort 252-515-0708
APRIL 25
Spring Art Crawl Downtown, Lincolnton 704-240-4989
APRIL 12
Earth Day is Every Day Festival Festival Park, Fayetteville 910-484-9098
APRIL 16
Uptown: A Celebration of Motown and Soul CoMMA Performing Arts Center, Morganton 828-433-7469
APRIL 18–19
Carolina Relief Fund
Music, food, silent auction Denton Farm Park, Denton 252-515-0708
Celebration of Sound Music by Jefferson Starship Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City 252-222-6268
APRIL 26
BloomFest Downtown Roseboro 910-525-4121
APRIL 26–27
Military Vehicle and Collectors Show Denton Farm Park, Denton 336-859-2755
APRIL 27
Terence Blanchard Grammy winning jazz musician NC Museum of Art, Raleigh 919-821-2030
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 April 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 June 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 February “Where Is This” photo by Carolina Country’s Warren Kessler features colorfully painted animal statues located at the Rose Mart gas station and the former L&L Food Store at Sandy Cross Road and Highway 58, right off I-95 in Nashville. Look closely to discover the “horses” are Batman and Robin, with Robin sadly missing an ear. Cyclist David Eas of Rocky Mount said the fun animals always make him smile as he rides past the menagerie a couple times a week. Robin Reams enjoyed “visiting the zoo” as a child when staying with her grandparents in the area. The winning entry chosen at random from all correct submissions came from Anna Croft of Concord, a Union Power Cooperative member.
Inogen® Portable Oxygen Concentrators
In 20 years, we have sold/rented more than 1 million units to people worldwide.
We have a lifetime warranty available on all of our concentrators.
USES: The Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrator provides a high concentration of supplemental oxygen to patients requiring respiratory therapy on a prescriptive basis. It may be used in home, institution, vehicle, and various mobile environments. DO NOT USE IF: This device is not intended to be used in any way other than described in the indications for use. Do not use in parallel or series with other oxygen concentrators or oxygen therapy devices. This device is to be used as an oxygen supplement and is not intended to be life sustaining or life supporting. ONLY use this product if the patient is capable of spontaneous breath, able to inhale and exhale without the use of a machine. The conserving, or pulse dose, oxygen delivery technique used by this device is contraindicated in persons whose breathing during normal resting would be unable to trigger the device. Proper device triggering, setup and operation must be confirmed by an experienced clinician or other respiratory professional. Not for pediatric use. Not for use by tracheotomized patients. WARNINGS: The device produces enriched oxygen gas, which accelerates combustion. Do not allow smoking or open flames within 2m (6.56ft) of this device while in use. If you feel ill or uncomfortable, or if the concentrator does not signal an oxygen pulse and you are unable to hear and/or feel the oxygen pulse, consult your equipment provider and/or your physician immediately. If you are unable to communicate discomfort, you may require additional monitoring and or a distributed alarm system to convey the information about the discomfort and or the medical urgency to your responsible caregiver to avoid harm. Use only spare parts recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper function and to avoid the risk of fire and burns. To avoid danger of choking or strangulation hazard, keep cords away from children and pets. TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: The oxygen flow setting must be determined and recorded for each patient individually by the prescriber, including the configuration of the device, its parts, and the accessories. It is the responsibility of the patient to periodically reassess the setting(s) of the therapy for effectiveness. The proper placement and positioning of the prongs of the nasal cannula in the nose is critical for oxygen to be delivered.
1When used for less than 8 hours per day within the expected service life
An Inogen POC may be covered by Medicare or other Insurance. DESIGNED INTHE
THANK YOU, Lineworkers
Each April we celebrate our lineworkers in North Carolina. It's an opportunity to say thank you to the people who power our communities.
Thank you for the vital role you play in keeping reliable power flowing to homes and businesses across the state. We are grateful for your hard work and dedication, today and every day.
