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Issues

February 2026

Art with Meaning

As I’ve experienced while helping my young children navigate a crowded gift shop, glass art is often seen as fragile — as delicate as it is beautiful. But in this issue, we’re sharing two stories about glass art as a source of strength — in one case helping veterans heal, in another helping students process losses from Hurricane Helene. Also, throughout this year we’re excited to be sharing stories that highlight North Carolina’s unique contributions to American history in recognizing our 250th anniversary. Watch for the America 250 logo tagging related content in this and future issues.

—Scott Gates, editor

Carolina Kitchen

Homemade Butter Salt and Lemon Pepper Potato Chips

Crispy, salty and zingy with lemon pepper, these homemade chips taste like something you’d buy at a gourmet snack shop — but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.

Grandma’s Caramel Cake

This recipe originally ran in our February 1990 edition. Buttery, rich and indulgent, this Southern staple with its cooked, caramelized frosting makes a fine valentine for the one you love.

Grilled Oysters Rangoon

Instead of classic Crab Rangoon, we put the creamy filling on top of meaty North Carolina oysters and crowned them with a crispy pork and sesame crunch!

Crack Chicken Tacos

It’s the cream cheese that takes this chicken/salsa combo to a whole other level. And the pan-fried tortillas don’t hurt anything either! Don’t skip the cucumber/cilantro topping—that little bit of crunch is everything. Pair with guac and chips and you’ll be in Taco Tuesday heaven!

Carolina Living

Carolina Living

Finding the Magic in the In-Between

Small choices that can make daily life feel special

Carolina Living

Battery Disposal and Recycling

Know different types and how to dispose of them

Carolina Living

How to Fall in Love with Your Own Company

Five ways to create a life that feels full, even when alone

Your Power

Your Power

North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives Announces New CEO

Amadou Fall will succeed Joe Brannan upon his retirement in April

Your Power

Co-op Basketball Camp Scholarship Winners Recognized on the Court

Electric cooperatives empower young athletes through basketball camp scholarships

Your Power

From the Classroom to Co-op Colleagues

Two NC co-op employees share a bond that shaped their futures

More from this issue

Carolina Gardens

Taming Forsythias

Plus Garden To-Do’s for February

Energy Sense

Should I Upgrade My Appliance?

Factor in energy cost savings

Up Front

Building on a History of Safety

NC electric cooperatives prioritize safety-focused training to ensure skilled, reliable lineworkers

Carolina Snapshots

So Sweet

Reader submitted photos

Carolina Adventures

Reenacting and Reaffirming Freedom

Reliving history at Moores Creek Battlefield

Tip Of The Month

Mid-Winter Heating Check

Simple steps to keep your system efficient and your home warm

Where in Carolina Country is This?

Check it Out

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