2024 April MEC

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

allendaleheating.com

Berrien Springs

Waterfurnace Michiana (269)473-5667

gogreenmichgeo thermal.com

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

airserv.com/southernmichigan/

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

dwmechanical.com

Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000

geofurnace.com

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!

teammidwest.com

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND CASSOPOLIS SOLUTIONS CENTER

60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, MI 49031

M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

PAW PAW SOLUTIONS CENTER

59825 S. LaGrave Street, Paw Paw, MI 49079

M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tecumseh Solutions Center

5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286

M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

CONTACT US

Midwest Energy & Communications 800-492-5989

teammidwest.com

Email: info@teammidwest.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Clarence “Topper” Barth, Chairperson, Three Rivers

269-279-9233

Clarence.Barth@teammidwest.com

Ben Russell, Vice Chairperson, Constantine 269-506-1590

Ben.Russell@teammidwest.com

Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443

Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com

John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816

John.Green@teammidwest.com

Dan Bodette, Wauseon 419-344-4015

Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com

Gerry Bundle, Cassopolis 269-414-0164

Gerry.Bundle@teammidwest.com

Erika Escue-Cadieux, Onsted 419-346-1088

erika.escue-cadieux@teammidwest.com

Fred Turk, Decatur 269-423-7762

Fred.Turk@teammidwest.com

Jim Wiseley, Bloomingdale 269-760-4619

Jim.Wiseley@teammidwest.com

PRESIDENT/CEO: Robert Hance

DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Amy Pales

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: Grant Zamora

Midwest Energy & Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Please note: electric customers of MEC must adhere to our bylaws, which can be found at teammidwest.com/bylaws. /teammidwest

LSolar: What to Know Before Buying

Robert Hance, President/CEO

ast year, I shared a story about a solar panel company that had gone out of business, leaving customers with nonfunctioning solar arrays and thousands of dollars of debt.

Unfortunately, we continue to see people encountering issues, so I’d like to share some tips when considering adding solar to your property.

First and foremost, do not sign a contract without thoroughly reading it and understanding what is in it. Solar arrays cost thousands, with some loan terms lasting 30 years. Don’t let a salesperson pressure you into signing something on the spot. It can be difficult to say no if someone is at your house, but stay strong. This purchase will impact you for years to come, so give yourself the time to do your due diligence. Remember that the salesperson does not have your best interest in mind.

Understand available tax credits and the actual benefit to you. Right now, the federal tax credit is 30%, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get a check from the government. It means that the credit decreases your federal income tax. Consult a tax professional. He or she can tell you exactly how much you’ll benefit from the credit.

Watch out for talk of free equipment or panels. Nothing in life is free, and while you may have no down payment or no cost for installation, you will most certainly be paying out of pocket for the solar system. Similarly, be wary of a “limited-time deal” that ends in a matter of hours or days. That’s generally a sign that they are pressuring you to sign before you have the chance to thoroughly vet the contract or financing plan.

Make sure you get detailed information on the installation timeline and process, frequency of communication, timeliness of warranty, follow-up work if there’s an issue, and assistance with paperwork processing for loans, tax credits, and rebates. Ask what happens if the solar panel system doesn’t pass inspection. If it doesn’t pass inspection, it cannot operate, and we will not connect it to our system. However, you may still be financially responsible even if the solar panels are not operational. Finally, find out what other contractors you may need to hire for things like tree removal, installation of solar batteries, roof repair, etc.

Lastly, get a clear picture of how much energy solar will actually generate for you, and don’t go by what the salesperson tells you. Do your own research. Unless you can generate 100% of your electric from your solar panels, which will not happen in the Midwest, you will need a backup source. Additionally, you will still get an electric bill for fixed charges if you remain connected to our infrastructure.

I’ve said this before, but it warrants stating again. I’m not here to rail against solar. It’s part of our future. However, as we’ve seen, the world of solar does have some shady players, and it’s important to know exactly what you are getting into before you sign on the dotted line.

VAN BUREN KALAMAZOO

CASS

Board Election Results 2024

One of the guiding principles of cooperatives is democratic control.

Midwest Energy & Communications is governed by a nine-member board of directors responsible for establishing corporate policy and strategic direction, hiring and evaluating the CEO, monitoring and evaluating organizational performance, and representing cooperative customers. Directors serve three-year terms and are elected by and represent customers living in their districts.

In 2024, Districts 3, 4, and 8 were up for election for three-year terms. All three board members representing those districts ran unopposed for reelection.

District 3 is represented by Ron Armstrong of Lawton. District 3 includes customers in Antwerp, Oshtemo, Portage, Prairie Ronde, and Texas townships.

District 4 is represented by Clarence “Topper” Barth of Three Rivers. District 4 includes customers in Brady, Fabius, Flowerfield, Leonidas, Lockport, Mendon, Newberg, Park, Schoolcraft, and Wakeshma townships.

District 8 is represented by Erika EscueCadieux of Onsted. District 8 includes

customers in Cambridge, Clinton, Franklin, Raisin, Ridgeway, Tecumseh, and Woodstock townships.

In 2025, Districts 6, 7, and 9 will be up for election. District 6 is represented by Ben Russell of Constantine and includes Constantine, Florence, Mottville, Porter (Cass County), and White Pigeon townships in Michigan, as well as Washington and York townships in Indiana. District 7 is represented by Gerry Bundle of Cassopolis and includes Calvin, Jefferson, Mason, and Ontwa townships in Michigan, and Harris and Osolo townships in Indiana. District 9 is represented by Dan Bodette of Wauseon, Ohio, and includes Adrian, Blissfield, Deerfield, Dover, Fairfield, Hudson, Madison, Medina, Ogden, Palmyra, Riga, Rollin, Rome, and Seneca townships in Michigan. District 9 also includes Amboy, Brady, Chesterfield, Dover, Franklin, German, Gorham, Mill Creek, Pike, and Royalton townships in Ohio.

For more information about serving on the board of directors, please call us at 800-492-5989. We will share election information in the September issue of Michigan Country Lines.

LENAWEE MONROE

VAN BUREN CASS KALAMAZOO ST JOSEPH

Ron Armstrong, District 3

Clarence Barth, District 4

Erika Escue-Cadieux, District 8

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.

Moving Your Meter Base

Need to move your meter base? We highly recommend contacting MEC and hiring an electrician. Here’s why.

You Don’t Own the Meter

This guide shows you the equipment you are responsible for on your home.

Note that while you’re responsible for the meter base, you don’t own the meter itself—it is owned by MEC because our team has the equipment and training necessary to take care of it. A trained MEC employee will be able to move the meter base safely and correctly.

It May Require an Inspection

Many changes to your electric service require inspection by the designated electrical inspector for your area to ensure your service is safe and up to code. Contact your township or city office for specific info. Visit teammidwest.com/inspectors for a list of township offices in our service territory.

Do It Right or Do It Twice

When someone is found to have moved their meter base without first contacting MEC and a local inspector, we have to start the process over. That means they wasted their time and possibly money doing it without notifying us. Trust us—it’s easier to make the call.

Permanent Meter Bases Available for Free

Permanent 200-amp meter bases for new services and upgrades can be picked up (at no cost) at our offices. You or your electrician need to supply the electrical entrance either on the home or on a temporary service pole. We do not supply or sell meter bases for temporary services. Those should be supplied by the electrician or purchased at a home improvement store.

To begin your project, visit us at teammidwest.com/ change-service. There is a nonrefundable $100 engineering fee for assessing your project. For current pricing on overhead and underground construction, please meet with a field engineer. Overhead and underground specification sheets are available upon request from your field engineer. Please note that you still have to contact your local electrical inspector after meeting with your field engineer.

Fees Are Payable Upon Receipt of Invoice

We must have 24 hours' notice to schedule a temporary disconnect of service. In the case of holidays, scheduled safety training, and unforeseen circumstances such as storms, we may require more than 24 hours to schedule your disconnect. For a same-day reconnect, you must call back before 3 p.m. A $115 charge is assessed for same-day reconnects if you call back after 3 p.m.

Please call us at 800-492-5989 if you have any questions or concerns. We look forward to assisting you with your energy needs.

811 Resources

your state’s utility notification system.

Michigan: missdig811.org

Indiana: indiana811.org

Ohio: oups.org

Always Call 811 Before You Dig

e always say that if you don’t call 811 before digging, you risk cutting utilities for yourself and your neighbors (and racking up quite the repair bill).

WRecently, we had some customers experience an internet outage due to our fiber line accidentally getting cut when a customer was digging on their property. These customers didn’t have internet for several hours—some for about 30.

Contacting 811 not only ensures you don’t cut a utility line, it also keeps you safe. Gas and electric lines lurk underground and can result in serious injury or even death if you come into contact with one.

Finally, if you hit a utility line because you didn’t call 811, you will be financially responsible for hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in repairs.

How It Works

You can contact 811 by calling 8-1-1 at least three business days before you plan to dig on your property.

Once you’ve submitted a locate request, you’ll receive an email with your ticket number. Keep this handy for later.

Utility owners then have three business days to go out to your property and mark where their facilities are located using paint and/ or flags. Once this is complete, the

utility owners will update their status online to show what they marked on your property.

To check the status of these lines, visit your state’s 811 website (see the box for addresses) and input your ticket number. Ensure all facilities are labeled Marked, Exempt from Marking, or No Conflict. If a label says Has Not Responded or Not Complete and your start work date and time has arrived, contact 811 again and ask the operator for assistance.

Please note that if a line is not owned by a utility company, you will need to contact a private utility locator to mark it. In Michigan, this includes propane lines.

Once all lines are marked, your start work date and time has arrived, and Positive Response statuses are all green, you’re ready to dig! Be sure to hand dig if you’re digging within four feet of paint or flags, and always dig with care.

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.

COMMUNITY CORNER

High Schoolers Visit MEC

Four high schoolers—Frankie, Areea, Cephus, and Norah—got a taste of co-op life at our Cassopolis headquarters on Friday, Feb. 2.

The group started the day with an activity. Each teen chose a word that related to themselves. Frankie chose “willing,” Areea chose “eager,” Cephus chose “perseverance,” and Norah chose “compassion.” They then painted the word on a plank of wood using any colors they wanted. The activity helped us get to know each of them as individuals. From there, the group learned about the history and importance of cooperatives before touring the building with us to see what we do here at MEC.

We chose two students to represent MEC on this summer’s NRECA Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C.: Areea, a Ross Beatty High School senior, and Norah, a Kalamazoo Christian High School senior. They’ll have the opportunity to visit several national historical sites, learn about our nation’s capital city hands on, and interact with other students from electric cooperatives across the country.

Blood Drive at MEC

On Tuesday, Feb. 20, MEC employees and customers joined forces at our Cassopolis headquarters for our 2024 blood drive, yet another way to fulfill our vision of creating vibrant, relevant, and sustainable rural communities. Together, we donated a total of 40 units of blood, surpassing our goal of 35 and impacting a potential 120 lives.

We can’t overstate how proud we are to be part of this generous, compassionate rural Michigan community.

Tree Planting Tips

Have a plan for your new Arbor Day trees?* Here’s what we recommend before you start planting.

1. Take Note of Power Lines

First things first: Trees and power lines don’t mix. We proactively remove trees and brush within 15 feet of either side of our primary power lines, which has been proven to significantly reduce the amount of time our customers spend without power. It also helps our linemen more efficiently identify and repair damage when needed.

Before you settle on a spot, make sure your trees have enough room to grow by considering the size and shape of the canopy when the tree is mature. See the guide below for more information on how to avoid planting your trees near power lines.

2. Call 811

Start off on the right foot! Call 811 to mark your primary underground utilities. It’s free, it’s the law, and it could help you avoid a costly mistake. Flip back to our story on Page 9 to see exactly why it’s a bad idea to skip your 811 call.

3. Pick Your Spot

A healthy tree needs space to grow. Take note of any obstructions that may prevent your trees from growing to their full potential. For example:

• Are there other trees, shrubs, or plants in the area that will leech away water and nutrients?

• Will your home or other structures block the roots?

• Double check: Will your trees be at least 30 feet away from power lines?

According to The Home Depot, you should measure your tree’s root ball and plan to dig a hole at least three times as wide, but no deeper than the height of the ball. Keep this in mind when selecting your planting spot.

4. Clean the Area and Dig

After you pick out your spot, give the area a look to see if you need to move any plants or clean up animal waste. Once you’re ready, start digging. Don’t forget to mulch and consistently water after you plant!

*Flip to the back cover to see how you can get 20% off up to two trees at participating stores!

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.

Save Energy In Your Living Room

For most people, the living room is one of the most frequently used rooms in the home, serving as a hub for family get-togethers, movie nights, and more. Here are some tips for stretching your kilowatts in

According to EnergyStar.gov, an ENERGY STAR-certified television can reduce your energy consumption by 25% on average. Visit EnergyStar.gov and click Find Products > Televisions to learn more about certified models currently on the market.

Game Consoles

Modern video game consoles include a “rest” or “sleep” mode that suspends the console without turning it off completely, allowing it to download updates or perform other tasks while not in use. As you might imagine, this can result in lots of extra power consumption. Fortunately, if you own a modern PlayStation or Xbox console, you can configure which of these features the console is allowed to use by visiting your system’s settings menu. If you aren’t sure where your console’s power saving features are located, consult your user manual.

Better yet, skip rest mode. Shut the console down and unplug it when you’re done playing to avoid background energy consumption entirely. Don’t worry—when you plug it back in and turn it on again, your console is programmed to automatically reconnect to the internet and begin downloading any updates you missed.

Finally, while your console may be able to access a variety of streaming services like Netflix, EnergyStar.gov says it’s

one of the least efficient ways to stream, with a dedicated device like a Roku or Apple TV using about 15 times less energy. Even more efficient is a smart TV, which can access streaming services directly instead of requiring a second device. You may want to consider investing in a smart TV if you watch lots of movies and shows on streaming services.

Fireplaces

If your living room has a fireplace built in, follow these tips:

• Keep your damper closed when not in use. Otherwise, warm air will escape up the chimney.

• Install tempered glass doors and a heat exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.

• Check the seal on the damper and make it as snug as possible. Also add caulking around the hearth.

• When in use, lower the thermostat and open the nearest window slightly to prevent smoke from blowing back into your home.

As a bonus, it creates a cozy ambience that’s perfect for after-dinner conversation or cuddling up with some blankets and a book.

Explore Energy.gov/Save

This website is your one-stop shop for all things energy efficiency. Whether you rent or own your home, you can find ways to save money, plus apply for tax credits and rebates on energy-efficient appliances. You can also participate in free programs to help you assess and improve your home’s overall efficiency. Business and farm programs are available as well.

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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A SPECIAL TREE-T JUST FOR YOU!

We’re celebrating Arbor Day 2024! From Friday, April 26 to Sunday, May 5, get 20% off up to two trees at Dussel’s Farm Market & Greenhouses in Cassopolis and Barrett’s Showplace Gardens & Flower Shop in Adrian.

First, cut out the coupon attached, then pick out up to two trees at Dussel’s or Barrett’s. At checkout, hand them the coupon to get your discount.*

*Tree quantities are limited. Offer is only valid for purchase of select tree varieties and does not applytootherproducts.

EligiblevarietiesatDussel’sincludeBuckeye,Crabapple,DappledWillow,Dogwood,FruitTrees, Hydrangea,JapaneseMaple,Magnolia,Redbud,Smoke,TreeLilac,WhiteCedar, and Witch Hazel.

EligiblevarietiesatBarrett’sincludeArborvitae(EmeraldGreen),CornelianCherry,Crabapple, Dogwood,JapaneseMaple,Juniper(BlueArrow),Magnolia,Plum(BigCis),Redbud,Serviceberry, andTreeLilac.