John B. Marek is a writer, farmer, outdoorsman and recovering economic developer. You can find his books at johnbmarek.com.
The window on the mountain is closed tight this morning, as the storm system that dumped a couple of inches of rain (and a few snowflakes) this past weekend left sub-freezing temperatures in its wake. Below 30 degrees, I can get The Workshack bearable, but not really comfortable and certainly not cozy. Fortunately, I am ahbler to tuype in gl;ioves.
I talked about a potential speaking engagement with some folks from the University of Wyoming last week. Over the course of the 15-minute discussion, they threw out a half dozen acronyms I had never heard before. Not wanting to sound stupid, I was frantically Googling in the background. It turns out that WORTH stands for Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality, and EIFOR is the Emerging Issues Forum on Outdoor Recreation. That got me thinking about the North Carolina-specific acronyms I used to throw around like everybody knew what I was talking about: NCEDA, EDPNC, CCOG and the like.
Acronyms fall into one of two general categories: those with a universally understood meaning and those specific to a particular occupation, hobby or organization. When somebody says FBI, NASA or AWOL, you know exactly what they mean. But GAID, AAA and GSDC have meanings less well-known to people outside those spheres of influence or have different meanings in different contexts. When I started as director of business retention and expansion and marketing for the Greater Statesville Development Corporation (GSDC) in the early 2000s, I attempted to register the domain name GSDC.com. learned it already belonged to the German Shepherd Dog Club.
As director of various economic development entities over the past 20 years, my interpretation of the acronym EDC has been economic development corporation, the public-private partnerships that lead business recruitment and retention for most of North Carolina’s counties and many of its larger cities. However, when I stepped away from the economic development realm at the end of September, EDC took on a whole new meaning.
In the broader context of ordinary existence, EDC stands for “everyday carry,” the items people carry with them every day to make life easier and ensure they can get their job done. Some refer to them as “pocket tap” items, as you tap your pockets to be sure you have them before leaving the house.
Although there are a few fundamental EDCs that just about everyone carries, the full range of items is highly diverse. Most people consider keys, phones and wallets essential to living and getting things done. The majority would add a wristwatch to the list. Beyond those, things like pens, pocket knives, flashlights or multi-tools might make the list:
Tactical pens with a twist – Traditional pens have given way to their tactical counterparts, but some go above and beyond. Enter the tactical pen with additional features like built-in flashlights, glass breakers and even self-defense tools. These multifunctional writing instruments serve a dual purpose, seamlessly blending utility and safety.
Miniature tools for the MacGyver in you – Forget about the standard Swiss Army knife; today’s EDC enthusiasts opt for miniature tools that can handle unexpected situations. These mini marvels prove that big problems can have small solutions, from tiny keychain-size screwdrivers to pocket-size adjustable wrenches.
Wallet-sized survival gear – For those who like to be prepared for any situation, wallet-size survival gear is a must-have. These compact cards can include tools like a compass, magnifying glass, fishing hooks, a spear point and even a set of lock picks, all cleverly designed to fit into the dimensions of a standard wallet. Carrying the tools of a Paleolithic hunting party with you on the bus downtown might be overkill, but it certainly makes a statement.
Water bottles – Once the exclusive domain of backpackers and gym rats, the water bottle has gained wider acceptance as an everyday carry item. From tech bros to retail workers, a stylish water bottle customized with stickers from various venues has become as ubiquitous as smartphones and high-water pants.
EDC pry bar multi-tools – While the utility of a pocket knife is undeniable, EDC pry bars take versatility to a new level. These compact tools can function as bottle openers, screwdrivers and even wrenches, proving that everyday carry can be both practical and unconventional.
Pocket-size flashlights with surprising features – Flashlights have come a long way from being mere sources of illumination. Modern EDC flashlights often come equipped with USB charging ports, power banks and even integrated tools like bottle openers. These pocket-size powerhouses ensure you’re never left in the dark, literally or metaphorically.
Our daily lives are fast-paced and unpredictable, so it’s not surprising the concept of everyday carry has evolved from a simple set of keys and a wallet to a curated assortment of tools and gadgets designed to meet the challenges of our jobs, hobbies and family life.