Issues

April 2026

Spring Getaways

In working on this issue’s cover story, I took advantage of an early spring day and got my kids out on a section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in Raleigh. I explained how the very path we were on stretched all the way west to the mountains, and east to the Outer Banks. “Let’s walk to the beach!” they both exclaimed. Although we lacked the time for that journey, I shared their excitement — our state’s epic trails are ripe with potential adventure. We also share how NC lineworkers are taking their work to Central America this spring.

—Scott Gates, editor

Elevated Paths

State trails represent the best of North Carolina

Soundside Adventures

Exploring the Outer Banks’ Western Shores

Don’t Say ‘Awesome’

Unless it really is

More Power

More Power

NC Electric Co-ops to Power Guatemalan Village

NC co-ops to bring electricity to a Guatemalan village through the Brighter World Initiative

More Power

Co-op Directors Receive Highest State Honor

Two Pee Dee Electric directors received NC’s highest honor for their leadership and service

More Power

New U.S. Generation Expected to Top Record in 2026

Solar power, energy storage lead additions

Carolina Kitchen

Caramelized Ham Steak

Dried fruits are often forgotten fruits but bring so much to the table. Serve this flavorful chutney with meats, fish, on cheese boards and sandwiches … or spoon it over vanilla ice cream!

Ginger Ale Pound Cake

Warmer weather calls for lighter, brighter flavors like lemon, ginger and coconut. Add some fresh fruit and whipped cream and serve at Easter brunch!

Mashed Potato Salad Stuffed Potatoes

Some of us prefer our potato salad on the creamy side when freshly made and still warm. So we made some and tucked it inside a crispy, crunchy, salted potato shell.

Mussels Fettuccine

Seafood and pasta fans, here’s a version of a southern Italian or even Neapolitan dish. When the juice from the shellfish meets the fresh ingredients, it is a ‘true pair’ (This sporting clays term means that both clays go at one time. So when you yell ‘pull!’ you get everything at once!). And just like that, this dish gives you everything at once!