2024 April HomeWorks

Conserving is believing.

Geothermal is leading the effort to provide a heating and cooling source that preserves Earth’s resources.

Geothermal is the greener alternative. The Department of Energy considers it a “vital, clean energy resource” that “emits little or no greenhouse gas—all while requiring a small environmental footprint to develop.” WaterFurnace geothermal units use Earth’s natural underground heat to keep your home comfortable, the sustainable way.

Geothermal is the only renewable that provides reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS

Allendale

Allendale Htg & Clg (800)327-1937

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Berrien Springs

Waterfurnace Michiana (269)473-5667

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Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231)796-3717

stratzgeocomfort.com

Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989)761-7691

sanduskygeothermal.com

Filion/Bad Axe

Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989)582-0137

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665

adamsheating cooling.com

Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201 mm-plumbing.com

Lansing Candor Mechanical (517)920-0890 candormechanical.com

Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616)897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com

Manistique Hoholik Enterprises (906)341-5065 hoholikenterprises.com

Marinette, WI GPS Htg. & Clg (715)732-2111 gpsheatingcooling.com

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500

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Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com

Muskegon

Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com

Negaunee

J-Goods Plmb. & Htg. (906)869-2522 jgoodsplumbingand heating.com

Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517)886-1138 mwphonline.com

Traverse City D&W Mechanical (231)941-1251

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Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000

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Alger Delta Electric: up to $2,000

Cherryland Electric: up to $2,500

Cloverland: up to $6,275

Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000

Homeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750

Thumb Electric: 5% financing available up to $22,500 for a 10-year term.

Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives

XECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark

EDITOR: Christine Dorr

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird

RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman

COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR:

Emily Haines Lloyd

PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association

Michigan Country Lines, USPS-591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.

Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.

Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS.

Association Officers: Tom Sobeck, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, president and CEO.

CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR:

Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com

6

WHEELS OF CHANGE

Exploring the e-bike phenomenon in Michigan.

10

MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Stir-Fries & Curries: Asian-inspired dishes full of flavor and fragrance.

14 AMERICA’S FAVORITE HOUSEGUEST

How small-town girl Nicole Franzel of Ubly, Michigan, made reality TV history.

MI Co-op Community

To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Homemade Burgers due May 1; Casseroles due July 1. Win a $100 bill credit!

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.

The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

18

NO BARRIERS 2024 PROGRAM

Adventures for rural veterans— apply by June 15. In-person expeditions will take place in July and August.

Guest Column

Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit. Win $200 for stories published!

homeworks.org

/homeworks.org

tricoenergy@homeworks.org

Portland office/Mail payments to:

7973 E. Grand River Ave.

Portland, MI 48875

Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday

Blanchard office:

3681 Costabella Ave.

Blanchard, MI 49310

Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.

Electric bill/account questions:

517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232

Pay by phone, anytime:

1-877-999-3395

Service questions/outages:

517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls)

Tri-County Propane:

1-877-574-2740

HomeWorks Connect

1-800-668-8413

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org

District 2 — Jim Stebbins

7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 616-693-2449 • jstebbins@homeworks.org

District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman

15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org

District 4 — Jake Borton

7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org

District 5 — Theresa Sopocy

6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org

District 6 — Ed Oplinger, Secretary-Treasurer 10890 W. Weidman Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-506-1639 • eoplinger@homeworks.org

District 7 — Shirley Sprague 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org

Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC

IIt Takes A Team Effort To Provide You With Superior Service

By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO

f you were asked to associate a picture or a person with HomeWorks TriCounty Electric Cooperative, I’d be willing to bet that the first image that would pop into your head would be a lineworker. Our linemen are some of the most visible employees of the Co-op, and they work tirelessly to keep the lights on for our members across rural mid-Michigan.

Men and women in the field of electric line work are called to brave treacherous conditions at all times of day and night to perform detailed tasks near highvoltage power lines some 40 feet in the air, often while carrying heavy equipment to get the job done. That’s part of the reason “lineworker” is consistently listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

Being a lineworker is not glamorous, and it’s not easy. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and, just as importantly, a strong sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain a lineworker’s willingness to leave the comfort of their home and family to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions so other families can have electricity? This dedication and sense of service to the community is why April 18 is recognized as national Lineworker Appreciation Day, to celebrate the men and women who work around the clock to power our country.

But while lineworkers may be the most visible employees at the Co-op, it’s important to note that HomeWorks has a team of equally vital and talented professionals working each day to serve you from behind the scenes. Our engineering and dispatch team provides ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the Co-op. Our member service representatives are the heart of the Co-op, always standing by to skillfully answer your calls and questions. Our information technology (IT) experts are continuously monitoring our system to help safeguard sensitive data. Our accounting team meticulously tracks our finances to ensure we maintain the resources we need to operate our business. And HomeWorks never would have grown into the Co-op it is today without the professionals dedicated to delivering services beyond electricity, including propane, fiber internet, and phone. Each and every one of our 108 HomeWorks employees plays a crucial role in delivering the superior service and reliability you’ve come to expect from your Co-op.

Our dedicated and beloved lineworkers are proud to represent HomeWorks TriCounty Electric Cooperative, and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineworker Appreciation Day. On April 18, and any time you see a lineworker, I hope you’ll join me in thanking them for their exceptional service. At the same time, I hope you’ll remember that back at the office, you have a dedicated team of Co-op professionals whose commitment to serving you runs just as deep.

“Each and every one of our 108 HomeWorks employees plays a crucial role in delivering the superior service and reliability you’ve come to expect from your Co-op.”

Dear HomeWorks Linemen, Doyourealizethe24ofyoukeepthelights turnedonfornearly24,000Co-op membersacrossruralmid-Michigan? That’sanextraordinaryfeatworth celebrating,notonlyonLineworker AppreciationDay,butallyear-round. Thankyouforthetirelesshoursyouwork inextremeweatherconditions.Thankyou forthetimeyousacrificewithyourown familieswhendutycallsyoubackoutto serveourmembers.Thankyouforliving yourlivesontheline.

APRIL 18 IS LINEWORKER APPRECIATION DAY

#ThankALineman

Wheels of Change: Exploring the E-Bike Phenomenon in Michigan

By Emily Haines Lloyd

When you think of the many human milestones, there are an interesting amount that revolve around mobility. A baby rolls over, crawls, and finally walks. A teenager takes the car out for a spin for the first time. The inaugural trip on a bus, train, or plane, watching the world become both bigger and smaller. These moments shape our connection to the world.

There’s a new and electrifying addition to these monumental experiences—a person’s first ride on an e-bike. Bikes are often a child’s first taste of freedom. Just like when the training wheels come off a bicycle, the experience of an e-bike can be not only fun but also liberating.

One E-Bike Is Not Like the Other

There are three categories that most e-bikes fall into. With the first, pedal assist, riders are given a motorized boost, like an invisible hand is pushing them forward. The second, a throttle, allows the rider to zoom around at up to 20 miles per hour without pedaling; this is a common option for delivery drivers and couriers. And the last is a faster pedal assist, allowing speeds of at least 28 mph. Regardless of the category, e-bikes are bringing the delight of cycling to a larger audience.

“My e-bike gets me out and makes me feel young,” said Great Lakes Energy member Beth Guntzviller. “I get a huge smile on my face when I hop on.”

A Greener Ride

As a growing number of manufacturers roll out a diverse array of e-bikes, Michigan is experiencing a surge in the adoption of these eco-friendly transports. E-bikes have the ability to replace traditional cars for shorter commutes and errand running.

Within the e-bike movement is the profound impact it has on individuals, like Great Lakes Energy member Nancy Peterson, who attests to the transformative experience. “My e-bike gets me to places on Beaver Island that I usually would not see, so I love it,” she said.

This highlights that, in addition to offering environmental responsibility, e-bikes serve as a catalyst for bringing people closer to nature, enabling them to explore and appreciate the outdoors in ways they might not have otherwise experienced.

Former Executive Director of the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance Bob Wilson coordinated a legislative e-bike ride on the White Pine Trail in 2019. Legislators participated in the ride, and it helped to provide the foundation for passage of laws regarding e-bikes.

“Our e-bikes have opened up a whole new world for us. They give us the mobility we could have never gotten out of a traditional bike.”

Inclusivity Redefined: E-Bikes for All Abilities

Beyond their environmental benefits, e-bikes have emerged as a symbol of inclusivity, breaking down barriers for individuals with varying physical abilities.

“As seniors, we have a lot of medical issues—knee replacements, bad heart, arthritis, and a few extra pounds, just to mention a few,” said Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member Debbie Artrip. “But our e-bikes have opened up a whole new world for us. They give us the mobility we could have never gotten out of a traditional bike.” Debbie and her partner Don got their e-bikes in 2023 and have already put more than 1,500 miles on them.

Unlike regular bikes, the electric assistance e-bikes provide makes cycling accessible to a broader demographic. This inclusivity is a game changer, allowing those who may face physical limitations to experience the joy and freedom of bike riding.

“Every pedal rotation gives me a boost, but when I get tired, or up a steep hill, I can use the thumb throttle and just sit back and enjoy,” said Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member Donna Robillard, who has a heart condition. “I do not have to worry about going too far and physically not being able to get back because I am too tired. I can be out enjoying the wind, air, and nature with happiness in my heart as I am free.”

Navigating the Challenges

While e-bikes are a big hit, there are some bumps in the road, as policymakers determine just where e-bikes are allowed to go.

Great Lakes Energy member Bob Wilson was the executive director of the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance several years ago and helped promote legislation that enabled e-bike use in various locations. There are specifi c laws and regulations for each e-bike category, so it’s always a good idea to check guidelines before hitting your favorite trails.

As the electric wave continues to sweep across the state, e-bikes are not only providing a greener alternative but also ensuring that the joy and freedom of bike riding are accessible to all. The future holds exciting possibilities for a Michigan where e-bikes weave a tapestry of environmentally conscious and inclusively connected mobility.

Visit michigan.gov/dnr/things-to-do/hike-andbike/ebikes to learn more about riding e-bikes in Michigan.

Donna Robillard on her Charge Comfort e-bike.

Beth Guntzviller enjoys riding her e-bike and always makes sure to carry a small medical kit, cash, gloves and hat, jacket, and snacks.

Earth Month Is Here, And Being “Green” Has Never Been Easier!

If you’re looking for an easy, free way to celebrate Earth Month—and even get a little extra cash on the side—don’t miss out on our Appliance Recycling program. As a HomeWorks member, you’re eligible to receive cash back for your old, workingcondition appliances. And we’ll even pick them up for free!

Why recycle?

Some appliances require special care when it comes to disposal. For instance, the refrigerants from your home freezer or refrigerator are required by law to be removed! Recycling your appliance also helps reduce the amount of waste in landfills and conserve resources (such as metal and other components in your appliance).

Schedule your FREE pickup to get up to $100!

We’ve taken the stress out of recycling your old appliances—simply schedule your pickup with one of our team members, and get $25 for each qualifying appliance. Eligible appliances include functioning full-size refrigerators and chest freezers. If a truck is coming to your residence to retrieve one of these items, room air conditioners and

dehumidifiers can also be sent for recycling as ride-along items. Members may recycle up to two primary appliances and two ride-along items per year.

Our team will take care of responsibly recycling your home appliance, and you’ll walk away with a little extra cash in your pocket (not to mention a head start on some spring cleaning!).

This is a seasonal program, so be sure to act fast! HomeWorks only offers appliance recycling from April 1–Oct. 1. Give us a call at 877-296-4319 to schedule your appointment today.

Earn additional rebates on new appliance purchases!

Need to replace your recycled appliance? Our Energy Optimization program also offers cash rebates on the purchase of qualifying new efficient appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, room dehumidifiers, room air conditioners, and more! Visit homeworks.org/eo for a full list of appliance rebates.

Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Fairs & Festivals” Photos

By April 20!

Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Our April theme is Fairs & Festivals. Photos can be submitted through April 20 to be featured in our June issue. To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/ photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2024 HomeWorks bill!

MOST VOTES

1. First fish of the season and she’s hooked! Krista Schafer, Remus

2. My son Keaton proudly displaying his “catch of the day,” a rather large largemouth bass, taken from the Grand River near our home. Casie Bayless, Portland

3. My biggest walleye yet!? Brooke Falk, Remus

4. First time targeting bass for him. Kevin Hanses, Six Lakes

5. My grandson with the largemouth bass he caught. Merrill Hunt, Lakeview

6. A very happy, “all smiles” fisherman!! The only lucky one out of the group. Phyllis Snider, Barryton

7. Summer fun. Brent Bazaire, Barryton

8. They are always hungry! Holly Bercot-Holmes, Barryton

9. Our great grandson Xander, so proud of his first catch. Bonnie Vannoller, Weidman

10. My son Ethan caught a big bass! Stacey Brown, Portland

11. Kit and Mom fishing in Fish Creek on our property on Vickeryville Rd. in Stanton. Sandy Miller-Keeler, Stanton

STIR-FRIES & CURRIES

Asian-inspired dishes full of flavor and fragrance

Recipe Contest

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Homemade Burgers due May 1; Casseroles due July 1

Submit your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $100 bill credit and have your recipe featured in Country Lines with a photo and a video. Submit your recipe at micoopkitchen.com, or send it via email (include your full name and co-op) to recipes@countrylines.com

WINNING RECIPE!

CHICKEN FRIED RICE

Deborah Lull, Midwest Energy & Communications

¼ cup vegetable oil, divided

2 eggs, lightly beaten

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 cup cooked chicken, diced

½ large red bell pepper, finely chopped

½ large sweet onion, finely chopped

½ cup peas, frozen or fresh

3 cups cooked white rice (or brown)

1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce

¼ cup soy sauce

4 green onions, chopped

In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil. Add eggs and cook 1 minute on each side. Remove and set aside. To the skillet/wok, add the remaining vegetable oil and sesame oil. Add chicken and stir-fry 1 minute. Add red pepper and onion. Stir-fry 5 minutes or until onion is translucent. Add peas, cooked rice, chili-garlic sauce, and soy sauce. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes. Add cooked eggs and stir until combined. Sprinkle in the green onions; stir. Serve immediately.

Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/recipe_ type/videos/

EASY INSTANT POT BEEF CURRY

Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided 1 red onion, sliced ¼ -inch thick 1 large red bell pepper, sliced ½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided 1 2-pound chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces

1 (14.5-ounce) can coconut milk, well shaken

3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste

• lime wedges, cilantro, red chiles • cooked rice

Press “Sauté” on Instant Pot/pressure cooker and heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add onion and pepper, and season with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black

pepper. Sauté until tender for 5 minutes; transfer to a bowl. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Season beef with remaining ¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and curry paste; add to pot and scrape up any brown bits. Cover and lock lid, make sure it is set to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Use the natural release method for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually. Using 2 forks, break up the meat into pieces, then toss with onion and red pepper. Serve over rice with lime wedges, cilantro, and red chiles, if desired. Enjoy!!

CHICKEN CURRY W/ LEMONGRASS & POTATOES

Ralph Krider, Great Lakes Energy

3 stalks lemongrass, chopped (use only the lower 3 inches of each stalk)

3 tablespoons fresh ginger

1 Vidalia onion, chopped

2 tablespoons canola oil

2 tablespoons curry powder

¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and/or drumsticks, skin removed

1 (14-ounce) can unsweetened full-fat coconut milk

1½ teaspoons sea salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 pound red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro

1 lime, cut into wedges

Put the lemongrass, ginger, and onion into a food processor; process until well minced and very aromatic. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, put the contents from the food processor into the oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned. Sprinkle in the curry powder and cayenne; stir well. Add the chicken and toss well to coat all the chicken with the spices in the pan. Shake the can of coconut milk well and add it to the pan along with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cover and heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is half cooked, about 15 minutes. Add the potatoes and simmer, covered, until the potatoes are done and the chicken is cooked through, about 15 more minutes. Sprinkle cilantro over each dish and serve with a lime wedge.

TAHITIAN CHICKEN STIR FRY

Kristine Myslenski, Great Lakes Energy

1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained, reserve juice

¹⁄ ³ cup Bragg® Liquid Aminos (or soy sauce)

1 tablespoon Schezwan sauce

½ teaspoon black pepper

3 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

4 teaspoons olive oil, divided

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 cup diced onion

1½ cups sliced zucchini (or sub w/ broccoli, snap peas, frozen peas, or mushrooms)

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

• cooked rice, for serving

In a small bowl, combine the pineapple juice (not chunks), Bragg® Liquid Aminos, Schezwan sauce, black pepper, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside. In a large skillet, add 2 teaspoons oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir and cook until no longer pink. Remove chicken from skillet. To the skillet, add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil and all veggies. Cook approximately 3 minutes, stirring, until tender crisp. Add the chicken and sauce and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally. Stir in the pineapple chunks. Serve over rice.

Downed and Dangerous

If you see a downed power line, always assume it is energized and dangerous. Avoid going near it or anything in contact with the power line.

Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 ft. away—so keep your distance. 35 ft.

Never drive over a downed line or through water that is touching the line.

If you see a downed line, notify the local authorities immediately.

Never try to move a downed power line, even if you think the line is deenergized or if you’re using a nonconductive item—this will not prevent injury or death!

Introducing Our New Chief Financial Officer

HomeWorks is proud to announce that the Co-op’s own Samantha Campbell has been promoted to chief financial officer, effective March 1. Ms. Campbell succeeds Pat Simmer in the CFO position, as Mr. Simmer transitions fully to the role of chief operating officer. As CFO, Ms. Campbell will lead all financial activities for the Co-op and its subsidiary, including strategic planning and analysis, accounting, taxes, audits, and more.

“Samantha cares about the Co-op and our members, and her commitment to serving them shines through in everything she does,” says CEO Chris O’Neill. “She sees beyond the numbers to how financial decisions are going to affect our membership, and her vision and forecasting abilities are second-tonone. There is no one I’d rather have

stepping in to help guide the direction of the Co-op as our next CFO.”

Ms. Campbell joined the Co-op team as an accountant in 2020 and was quickly promoted to accounting manager in 2021. She has been instrumental in the financial forecasting and planning for the continued development of the HomeWorks Connect business, among other key initiatives. She has 15 years of accounting experience and has earned an MBA from Spring Arbor University and a bachelor’s in accounting from Grand Valley State University.

“As CFO, I am looking forward to continuing to serve our members and assist in fulfilling the mission of the Cooperative,” she says. “HomeWorks provides high reliability for all services offered at stable pricing. I look forward to supporting this

Your Board In Action

Meeting in Portland on Feb. 26, your board of directors:

• Unanimously authorized management to increase expenses in the HomeWorks Connect operating budget by $85,372 and increase the HomeWorks Connect capital budget by $200,630 in order to proceed with an enhanced broadband reliability and redundancy plan.

• Authorized an adjustment of $87,000 to the HomeWorks Connect 2024 budget for the addition of a new network engineer II position to support the management of the HomeWorks Connect fiber internet network.

• Reviewed a quarterly report on the HomeWorks Energy Optimization program, showing the program resulted in 1,215,476 in kWh savings and earned participating members a total of $210,124 in 2023.

• Re-elected Director John Lord to represent the Co-op on the board of Wolverine Power Cooperative for another term.

• Elected Director John Lord as the Co-op’s voting delegate for the upcoming annual meetings of both Wolverine Power Cooperative and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

• Received a capital update on the project to expand the HomeWorks Connect network to the city of Portland from CEO Chris O’Neill.

• Discussed and accepted Cooperative bylaw sections 7.10-7.13 and sections 8.1-8.10, as revised.

• Learned there were 79 new members in January.

by maintaining and continuing to strengthen the financial integrity of the Cooperative.”

Ms. Campbell is a HomeWorks member, residing in Portland with her husband, Jeff, and their three daughters.

• Acknowledged the January physical & cybersecurity report, noting that there was another incident of gunshots damaging Co-op electric equipment. This is an ongoing issue that has been reported to the Michigan State Police Critical Infrastructure Department for investigation.

Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings

The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on April 29 at Blanchard and 9 a.m. on May 20 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.

AMERICA’S FAVORITE HOUSEGUEST

How a small-town girl made reality TV history

By Yvette Pecha

“

Big Brother” is one of the longest-running reality game shows of all time, having begun airing on CBS in 2000. Throughout the show’s tenure, there have been more than 300 “houseguests.” And while houseguests commonly compete in multiple seasons, only one of them has ever won the show twice: Nicole Franzel of Ubly, Michigan. She earned that distinction late last year with her victory on “Big Brother Reindeer Games”; her fi rst win came in 2016. Having played for a total of four seasons of “Big Brother” and one season of “The Amazing Race,” Nicole spent “most of her 20s” appearing on television screens.

Becoming a reality show legend was not something Nicole (a Thumb Electric Cooperative member) could have envisioned when she applied to be on the show the first time in 2014. She and her mom Jeni had been superfans of “Big Brother,” which features contestants living together under 24/7 surveillance in isolation and voting someone out each week, since she was 8. But the first year Nicole was eligible to audition (the show’s age requirement is 21), she didn’t put much thought into doing so—“I thought there was no way I’d get in,” she said. She was also in the process of completing nursing school at Saginaw Valley State University. But Jeni,

who’d been encouraging her to try out, made one more push and called Nicole at school the day before the application deadline, urging her to come home and make an audition video. Nicole did, and the day after submitting it, she got a call from the show’s casting department. She went through a series of telephone and live interviews, and was ultimately chosen as one of 16 houseguests for season 16.

That first year, she came in seventh place. Nicole said that at the time, she was really glad to have had the experience, but she didn’t expect anything to come from it. She took and passed her nursing board exam and began working in a hospital rehab unit. But then, “California area codes started popping up” on her caller ID—the show’s producers liked Nicole and wanted her to come back. She returned to “Big Brother”

in 2016, and this time, as the last houseguest standing, she went home with $500,000. She got much more than clout and cash though—one of the other contestants on the show that year was Victor Arroyo. They didn’t have a “showmance,” but Victor pursued her after the season ended and they started dating a year later. Victor, who lived in Louisiana, moved to Ubly with Nicole, and they are now married and have a 2-year-old son named Arrow.

These days, Nicole is a social media influencer and small-business owner. Nicole and Jeni operate Franny and the Fox, a clothing boutique featuring handmade, eco-friendly apparel. Initially, it was an online store that exclusively featured clothes for children. But upon hosting pop-up shops in Port Austin and getting great feedback, Nicole and Jeni opened a storefront in Cass City and expanded their product line to include women and babies. “My mom and I love to shop, and we’ve always had a unique style,” Nicole said. She’s happy to have the opportunity to work from home and be with her son, but she keeps up her nursing license in case she decides to return to the profession one day.

As far as keeping her options open to television, Nicole announced she had retired from “Big Brother” upon starting her family. But when producers offered her the prospect of playing “Reindeer Games,” which was filmed in just six days, she couldn’t pass it up. “Saving Christmas” through a series of holiday-themed competitions, Nicole walked away with the $100,000 prize, which she plans to use to build a barn for a hobby farm. She is back into retirement—for now. “If the opportunity for the right show at the right time appears, I’ll consider it,” she said. “But I’m also super content with never going back.”

If “Reindeer Games” is truly the end of Nicole’s reality TV career, she can retire with her head held high. “I never expected to be in this position—but I can proudly say I’ve stayed true to myself through everything,” she said. She’s made great friendships through the show and says being watched for eight years of her life undoubtedly benefited her personal growth. “It was a great learning experience,” she said. “But the thing I learned the most is that no matter where I go, I always want to come back home.”

“I never expected to be in this position—but I can proudly say I’ve stayed true to myself through everything.”

Nicole, Arrow, and Jeni.

Victor, Arrow, and Nicole.

Attend your brief virtual meeting for the chance to win big prizes!

2024 Virtual District Meetings:

ENGAGE WITH Y OUR CO -OP FRO M Y OUR LIVING ROO M

As you may know, our board of directors voted in 2022 to continue holding our annual district meetings virtually going forward, in response to our members who have consistently expressed via surveys that they prefer the online format. That means we’re back this year to host livestreamed virtual meetings in each of our districts this May. The meetings will give you and your neighbors the opportunity to learn more about the Co-op you own, all from the comfort of your own home!

This spring’s virtual events will follow the same format as the last few years, with lots of fresh content and exciting new highlights. Like last year, we’ll host an actual live virtual meeting in each of our seven districts, streamed to your device via the user-friendly Zoom Webinar digital platform. Members who don’t have internet accessibility will have the opportunity to call in and attend via phone.

"What's great about our virtual district meetings is that they are accessible to all members, from the busy young parents on the go to the homebound senior citizen curious to find out what's going on at the Co-op," says HomeWorks CEO Chris O'Neill. "We see such a wide demographic in attendance each year, and the cool thing is that they are asking questions and participating in the voting and truly engaging with us in a meaningful way. That kind of engagement makes for a strong and healthy cooperative, and that's the value of these virtual district meetings to me."

How Will The Livestreamed Virtual Format Work?

In April, each HomeWorks member will receive a meeting

invitation in the mail. The invitation will include your specific district meeting details, along with a registration link to RSVP to attend the virtual event. Once you RSVP, you’ll receive follow-up information with instructions on how to log on to Zoom Webinar the evening of your meeting.

In addition to your formal mailed invitation, we’ll also be sending out email updates, as well as posting information on our HomeWorks Facebook page and on our district meeting page at HomeWorks.org.

When Will The Meetings Take Place?

Our 2024 district meeting dates will be as follows:

•District 1: Monday, May 6

•District 2: Tuesday, May 7

•District 3: Wednesday, May 8

•District 4: Thursday, May 9

•District 5: Monday, May 13

•District 6: Tuesday, May 14

•District 7: Wednesday, May 15

All meetings will take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Don’t worry if you don’t know which district you live in; your mailed invitation will include your district along with the date and time of your event. (You can also find this information on our district meeting page at HomeWorks.org.)

What Will My Meeting Entail?

Your district meeting will be fast-paced and brief, but we’ll

“I never knew all the services offered by the Co-op until I attended my first virtual district meeting. Now I attend every year, and I learn something new every time.”

~

HomeWorks Member Justin T

.,

Virtual District Meeting Attendee

cover a lot of exciting ground. You’ll hear from your district’s elected representative on our board of directors, receive a Co-op update encompassing all we’ve been up to over the past year, learn about the progress of our HomeWorks Connect internet business, hear about our recent community outreach, and more.

Why Should I Attend My District Meeting?

Electric cooperatives are different from investor-owned utilities because we’re owned by you, our members. That means that you have a voice and a vote in our operations, so it’s beneficial for you to stay engaged with what we are doing on a regular basis.

Plus, we’ve got a lot of important information planned to present to you, particularly regarding Michigan's new energy legislation. As always, we'll also take time to update you on our services beyond electricity that members ask about the most, including high-speed internet, propane, and energy efficiency rebates.

Your meeting will be brief—less than an hour—and we think you’ll walk away with several takeaways that will make you glad you attended.

Will I Be Able To Ask Questions At My Virtual Meeting?

Just like at our traditional in-person district meetings, this year’s events will feature a live question-and-answer session. You’ll simply type your question into a chat box and our meeting moderator will pass it along to our CEO for his response.

I’m Not Tech-Savvy. Will I Have Trouble Attending?

You don’t need to have any prior experience with virtual meetings to attend your 2024 district meeting. Each member will receive an invitation in the mail including very simple instructions explaining how to log on. A few clicks, and you’ll be in! A phone number will also be provided on the invitation for any member who does need assistance logging on.

What If I Don’t Have A Good Internet Connection At Home?

High-speed broadband service is not required to use Zoom Webinar; all you need is a smartphone with decent cellular service. Even a landline phone will suffice to dial in for audio only. For any member who does experience connection issues, the meetings will be recorded and posted on our website for viewing at a later date.

Will There Be Prize Giveaways?

This year’s virtual district meetings will feature prizes galore! See the sidebar to the right for information on all of the ways to win.

Watch your mailbox and email inbox for more detailed information to come, or visit our district meeting page at HomeWorks.org/districtmeetings.

2024 District Meeting Prizes: Three Ways To Win Big, Just For Attending!

1. Early Bird Door Prizes:

As always, the first 30 members (or more, depending on the size of your district) in each district to register for (and then attend) their meeting will receive a $25 HomeWorks bill credit!

2. Traditional Prize Raffles:

Every member who attends will be entered for the chance to win raffle prizes including a smokeless indoor grill, a pizza oven, wireless earbuds, an RTIC backpack cooler, a wireless meat thermometer, $50 HomeWorks bill credits, and more!

3. Interactive Scratch-off Game:

We're mixing things up this year with our new interactive District Meeting Scratch-off Cards! Once you register to attend your virtual district meeting, you’ll receive a scratch-off card in the mail with instructions on how to play along during your meeting. Scratch off your card during the meeting to find out if you win one of our exciting grand prizes!

NO BARRIERS 2024

ADVENTURES FOR RURAL VETERANS—APPLY BY JUNE 15

IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS WILL TAKE PLACE IN JULY AND AUGUST

Michigan electric cooperatives believe there should be “No Barriers” for veterans with disabilities. That’s the name and idea behind CoBank’s No Barriers initiative. Michigan cooperatives are looking for qualified veterans* from our local community to participate. No Barriers is a five-day, all-expenses-paid expedition in Colorado, designed to help veterans with disabilities transform their lives through curriculum-based experiences in challenging environments (climbing, rafting, and hiking).

If you are a disabled veteran or you know of a disabled veteran in our community who would like to participate in the No Barriers program, please apply directly at nobarriers.tfaforms.net.

If you have questions about the application process or need assistance filling out an application, please contact us at:

warriors@nobarriersusa.org

970-484-3633 ext. 305

Learn more about No Barrier’s mission and programs at nobarriersusa.org.

*Must have VA disability rating to be eligible.

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2024 Meeting Dates: Make Plans To Attend Your Virtual District Meeting

District 1: Monday, May 6

District 2: Tuesday, May 7

District 3: Wednesday, May 8

District 4: Thursday, May 9

District 5: Monday, May 13

District 6: Tuesday, May 14

District 7: Wednesday, May 15

Watch your mailbox for more details to come, including a registration link to attend your livestreamed virtual meeting!