March 2023 MEC

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You don’t have to lower the thermostat to control your heating bills. WaterFurnace geothermal systems use the clean, renewable energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. And because WaterFurnace units don’t use any fossil fuels or combustion, the EPA calls it the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to condition our homes.2 Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to learn how WaterFurnace is good for the environment, your budget and the feeling in your toes.

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: up to $2,000

Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives

EXECUTIVE 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

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.

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A SOLEFUL MISSION

Travis Snyder takes steps to highlight veterans’ mental health.

10

MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Soups & Stews: Dish out a steaming bowl of comfort food.

14 BEYOND MEDALS

The enduring spirit of Michigan’s Special Olympics Athletes.

18 GUEST COLUMN

Old Friends: A Midwest Energy & Communications member rhapsodizes about the value of lifelong friendships.

MI Co-op Community

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

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Tacos & Margaritas due April 1 and Homemade Burgers due May 1. Win a $100 bill credit!

Guest Column

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

Mystery Photo

See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!

teammidwest.com

/teammidwest

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.

Fiber Growth Continues

Robert Hance, President/CEO

“We are a township office and can now do the day-to-day operations we need to do by law. Service is immeasurable!” —Fabius Township

There is no better testimonial than this to sum up why we do fiber. It’s not about giving people the ability to stream their favorite sports. Well, maybe a little. But more importantly, it’s about survival in the modern world.

And we’re not slowing down. Many of your non-MEC neighbors and friends still lack access to reliable broadband. As a result, we have been very busy expanding our fiber infrastructure in rural southern Michigan, and I want to share the highlights of our work:

State of Michigan, Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) Grant

In 2023, Michigan announced a $250 million grant program to expand internet service to “unserved and underserved” addresses throughout the state. The state defines “unserved and underserved” as addresses that do not currently have access to internet speeds of at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload.

In an unprecedented collaboration with Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties, 40 townships in those counties, plus Sherman Township in St. Joseph County, we submitted a ROBIN application to bring fiber to roughly 7,000 unserved and underserved rural addresses. The participating townships and counties are investing over $12.5 million in the project. That’s a huge commitment, and it shows how dedicated our local representatives are to helping their communities. Meanwhile, MEC is committing about $15 million, and the ROBIN grant will contribute roughly $25 million.

We have begun construction in some areas, and it will continue through 2026. Additionally, we will be able to bring fiber to roughly 8,000 “served” addresses as

part of our build-out, thereby giving those residents and businesses another option for broadband.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC), The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF)

This project began in 2021. If you’re interested, we have more details in the May 2021 issue of Country Lines, which can be found at countrylines.com.

With a $37 million investment from the FCC, RDOF is helping us fund a project to bring fiber to over 33,000 unserved and underserved addresses in rural southern Michigan. “Unserved and underserved” for this project was defined by the FCC as those who lack speeds of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload.

We’re currently in our third year of construction and will continue through 2026. Like with the ROBIN project, we are also able to provide fiber to adjacent addresses considered “served” by the FCC.

Local Agreements

We’ve also had some agreements with local governments, such as Oronoko Township and Washtenaw County, to serve specific residents in those areas. These projects are a result of local officials working directly with MEC to help fund fiber builds in their area and are a great example of how engaging with your local representatives can bring significant change to your community.

When we launched our fiber pilot project in 2014, I knew it would be a game changer. That’s why I spent, and continue to spend, countless hours advocating for federal and state support for co-ops and rural residents. I wholeheartedly believe that co-ops are the best equipped to bring this service to rural residents. We live where you live and understand the rural way of life in a way others don’t—or don’t want to.

OUR MISSION: Delivering first-in-class innovations and solutions where others won’t.

OUR VISION: Creating vibrant, relevant, and sustainable rural communities. 4

VAN

CASS

Scholarship Applications

Close March 18

High school seniors—there’s still time to answer this video challenge! You could earn $1,000 toward your post-secondary education.

MEC provides three main services: electric, propane, and fiber internet. Pick ONE and create a commercial to promote it.

Don’t just read a script to us—think outside the box! Imagine you’re making a commercial for TV. What kinds of artwork, storytelling, and other creative flourishes can you use to advertise your chosen service in an unforgettable way?

To help you out, we’ve included tips on how to make a great commercial,

More About the Scholarship

High school seniors whose families receive monthly service from MEC at their primary residence are eligible to apply. Children of MEC employees and board members are NOT eligible.

Selection for the scholarship is based on the video submission along with academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement and/or employment, and honors and awards. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a four-point scale is required, and an official transcript must be submitted for final approval.

We award four scholarships each year and announce winners in the spring.

The deadline to apply is Monday, March 18, 2024.

A Soleful Mission

Travis Snyder Takes Steps to Highlight Veterans’ Mental Health

By Emily Haines Lloyd

When Travis Snyder returned from his tour in Afghanistan as a U.S. Marine, he was both proud and relieved that everyone in his unit was brought home in one piece. It took time, as well as a pivotal and heartbreaking experience, to realize that maybe he and his unit actually didn’t come back all put together.

This was the beginning of a new journey for Snyder, one that took an unexpected path to a new purpose.

A Tour of Duty

When Snyder joined the Marines at 24, he was looking to make an impact, serve his country, and find both discipline and direction in his life.

When his unit was deployed in October of 2017, it worked in Security Forces with a mission to train, advise, and assist the Afghan army against the Taliban. “We saw it as a blessing,” said Snyder. “You go through this training in order to serve. Serve our country.

Serve a community and its people. It was a chance to do good.”

Eight months later, Snyder and his entire unit returned home—back to normal. However, it didn’t take long for Snyder to realize things weren’t exactly normal. He still wanted and needed purpose, but instead found depression and anxiety attacks. Snyder pushed through them, unsure when or if they would stop.

In August of 2019, one year after his tour, Snyder received a devastating phone call. A good friend from his unit, Geoff Hughes, had committed suicide.

Walking for Warriors

The loss of Geoff was an unthinkable blow. Snyder had a desire for direction when he joined the Marines. Now he was unsure what to do next. With feelings of being untethered and his grief and shock over Geoff, Snyder knew he needed to do something to change his course and make an impact like he had in the service. “I knew I had to do something. Something big,” said Snyder. “There are too many of my brothers and sisters in the service who feel like I did when I got home— aimless, disconnected.”

As a way to commemorate his friend and to shake up his own life, Snyder took a walk. A long walk. Around Lake Michigan.

A Mission of Miles

Snyder’s “walk” turned into an 810-mile journey around the whole of Lake Michigan. He’d started a Facebook page for some friends and family to keep track of his trek.

Snyder knew he wanted to make this trip about veterans and mental health, so he arranged stops along the way to connect with different organizations and bring awareness to their causes.

Snyder had packed his camping gear, expecting to spend most nights outdoors along the way. He never had a chance to unpack it. “The first night, a friend from the Marines called me and told me his parents lived along the way and were happy to let me sleep in their RV for the evening,” said Snyder. “Forty-two straight nights, people offered me a place to sleep. You look at social media thinking there’s so much that is bad, but if you really look around you, there are so many good people in the world.”

And speaking of social media, the five to 10 people he expected to follow him on Facebook turned into 14,000, with another 3,000 on Instagram. The word had gotten out about Snyder’s wild walk. People were tuning in to hear and learn more about veterans’ issues, particularly mental health.

Next Steps

Snyder put on his hiking shoes each year through 2023, including walking along the West Michigan lakeshore from New Buffalo to Mackinaw City, across the state, and around Lake Michigan again—totaling 2,590 miles and raising over $15,000 dollars for veteran organizations. “That first mile back in 2019 was to commemorate a friend,” said Snyder. “I may have taken those steps on my own, but what’s been accomplished has been through a community of caring people. It would not have been possible without them.”

A reminder that no one should walk alone in this life. And with the help of people like Travis Snyder, hopefully fewer of us will.

“I may have taken those steps on my own, but what’s been accomplished has been through a community of caring people. It would not have been possible without them.”

/travishikeslakemi

/travishikeslakemi

THE CLEAN ENERGY BALANCING ACT

Shrinking electric supply, growing electric demand

THE BROADENING GAP BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND

Rising Electric Demand

As people convert to electric vehicles and electric heat, Michigan's electric load will grow dramatically.

50% increase in electric demand is projected for Michigan over the next 15 years.

Diminishing Electric Supply

Utilities are under increasing pressure to retire coal plants faster than they can replace them, resulting in a reduction of power supply reserves.

5 million households could be powered by the amount of coal and natural gas Michigan has slated for retirement over the next 10 years.

WE SUPPORT CLEAN ENERGY, BUT THE GROWING IMBALANCE BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND POSES A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO ELECTRIC RELIABILITY

The clean energy transition is underway and Midwest Energy & Communications leads by example, providing members with energy that is 60% carbon free.

Nearly 2x the regional average. vs.

60% Co-op’s Fuel Mix

35% Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

Policies mandating a shift to high amounts of intermittent, weatherdependent energy sources are accelerating the premature retirement of traditional, reliable generation.

66%

of North America is currently facing an elevated risk of blackouts. Experts warn within five years, Michigan and surrounding states will be at high risk of blackouts.

88% of the time Michigan imports energy from outside its borders to keep the lights on for homes and businesses.

We are collaborating with our power supplier Wolverine Power Cooperative, the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, and fellow electric cooperatives in Michigan to drive innovation, make strategic investments, and advocate for a seamless transition that gives equal weight to affordability, environmental impact, and electric reliability.

Sources:

Write the Perfect 4-H Letter

You’ve worked hard to get your animal(s) ready for the county fair, but do you have a plan for inviting buyers? A great buyer letter can help encourage more bids on your animal, which improves your chances of making the best sale possible.

What to Include

Follow this checklist to make sure you include all the elements of a successful 4-H letter:

Information about yourself:

Your full name

Your age

Your 4-H Club

The full name of at least one parent or guardian (especially if the person or organization you’re writing to already knows who they are)

Information about your project:

What your animal is

How you raised your animal

Information about the fair:

The fair’s name

Dates the fair is open

Your auction’s date, time, and location

Where they can find more information about the fair (for example, the fair’s website)

The fair’s brochure (if available)

These are the essentials, but it’s always better to add more details to help your potential buyer get to know you. For example, you could add:

What you learned from your project

Any plans for future projects

A picture of yourself and your animal

Be Polite

Kindness is key! Don’t try to pressure anyone into bidding, and make sure you thank them if they bought or bid on one of your previous animals.

Know Your Audience

Personalized letters show that you put care and thought into your invitations. Instead of “Dear Buyer,” use their name.

You may also consider hand signing each letter. Buyers will recognize and appreciate that you went the extra mile to include a personal touch.

Who to Invite

It’s not necessary to invite everyone you know. Think about who will be the most likely to make a bid on your animal, such as:

• Any previous buyers

• Relatives and family friends

• People or organizations your family does business with, such as your doctor or a local store you shop at frequently

Always Thank Your Buyers

If you know that someone came to the fair to bid on your animal, make sure you thank them before they leave—especially if they purchased it. You may also want to consider making a thank-you sign to display next to your animal’s pen.

Lastly, be sure to mail your buyer a handwritten thank-you note after the fair. Thanking a buyer will make them feel appreciated, and they may be more likely to return next year.

SOUPS & STEWS

Dish Out a Steaming Bowl of Comfort Food.

Recipe Contest

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Tacos & Margaritas due April 1; Homemade Burgers due May 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!

GARLIC, TORTELLINI, SPINACH & TOMATO SOUP

Kathleen Atwater, Cherryland Electric

2 tablespoons butter

6–8 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup chopped onion

6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

9 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

10 ounces spinach, washed and coarsely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

1 egg

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ teaspoon salt

¹⁄ 8 teaspoon black pepper

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant, 2–3 minutes. Add the chicken broth; bring to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook halfway, about 5 minutes for frozen pasta, or 2–3 minutes if using fresh pasta. Add the can of tomatoes; reduce the heat to a simmer and cook just until the pasta is tender, about 4 minutes. Stir in the spinach and oregano and cook until wilted, 1–2 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Drizzle into the soup and cook, stirring about 3 minutes more. Remove from heat and serve. Add additional salt and pepper, as desired. Makes about 6 servings.

BEEF STEW

Ralph Kridner, Great Lakes Energy

6 ounces bacon, chopped into ¼ -inch strips

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces

2½ teaspoons sea salt (or to taste), divided

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups dry red wine, plus extra for deglazing

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

5 carrots, peeled and cut into ½ -inch pieces

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 stalks celery, finely diced

6 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

3–4 cups low-sodium beef broth

8 ounces red wine demi-glace sauce

2 bay leaves

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced

1 sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 pound small (fingerling) potatoes, halved or quartered

Preheat oven to 300 F. In a large, oven-proof pot, sauté bacon over medium heat until golden brown and fat is released. While bacon is cooking, place beef in a large mixing bowl and season with 1½ teaspoons salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle beef with flour; toss to

combine and evenly coat beef. Transfer beef in batches into the hot bacon fat and cook over medium-high heat, until beef is browned (2–3 minutes per side). Add olive oil if needed. When the bacon in the pot is golden brown, remove it and put it in a large bowl. Transfer browned beef to the bowl with bacon. Add a bit of red wine to the pot to deglaze, then reduce the heat to lowmedium. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release meat pieces. Add balsamic vinegar and simmer over low-medium heat, about 10 minutes, being careful not to burn. Pour 2 cups red wine in with the beef and bacon. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, celery, and garlic; sauté 10 minutes. Then add the tomato paste and sauté another 1–2 minutes. Then return the beef, bacon, and wine to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine demi-glace sauce, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir until the demi-glace has melted. Then add potatoes and stir to combine everything, submerging the potatoes in liquid. Cover with lid and bake for 2 to 3 hours. To thicken, combine 2 tablespoons water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix well and add to stew. Stir well and heat for 5 minutes. Pour into bowls, add a sprinkle of salt, serve, and enjoy!

CREAM OF CAULIFLOWER AND CHICKEN SOUP

Nancy Hascall, Cherryland Electric

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 stalks celery, diced

1 small head cauliflower, chopped into small florets

1 large onion, diced

1 large carrot, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

3 cups chicken broth (or more to reach desired consistency)

1 cup salsa

1 cup cooked, diced chicken

1 cup grated cheese of choice

1 cup half-and-half

VINNY’S SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

2 slices bacon

1 yellow onion, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

¼ cup all-purpose flour

4 cups milk

1 cup firm white fish (cod, tilapia, halibut, etc.)

½ pound shrimp or any other seafood of choice

½ cup corn

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Sauté bacon in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until crispy, 3–4 minutes. Remove bacon from pot and chop into small pieces. Drain all but 1 tablespoon bacon grease from the pot. Add diced onions and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium heat until soft, 3–4 minutes. Add potatoes and sauté 1–2 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Add the flour and stir, cooking until the flour is completely moistened. Add the milk and increase the heat to medium. Heat the soup until it is steaming, just before it starts to boil, stirring often. Continue cooking, uncovered, until the potatoes are nearly tender, 10–15 minutes. Reduce heat if milk begins to foam. When soup has thickened, add seafood, corn, and cooked bacon. Cook until fi sh is cooked through, 5–10 minutes. Add salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley.

Garnishing Options:

sour cream, Parmesan cheese, guacamole, fresh cilantro, crispy bacon

Heat the olive oil In a large kettle. Add the celery, cauliflower, onion, carrot and garlic; sauté for about fi ve minutes. Cover, turn the heat to low, and cook for another fi ve minutes or until vegetables are soft. Add the chicken broth, salsa, and cooked chicken. Blend with an immersion blender. Add the cheese and gently stir until the cheese is melted. Add the halfand-half and heat to desired temperature. Garnish each bowl with choice of sour cream, Parmesan, guacamole, cilantro, and cooked bacon. Enjoy!

How to Stream Detroit Sports

The Super Bowl is over, but the Detroit Tigers’ season will be in full swing later this month. But wait—are you having trouble finding the right channel for the games? It’s not you, and it’s not your TV—something else is going on.

Fox Sports Detroit Is Now Bally Sports Detroit

Yup! One reason you might not be finding Fox Sports Detroit is because it technically doesn’t exist anymore. While the channel itself is still active and providing the same content, Sinclair Broadcasting Group reached a deal in 2021 with casino operator Bally’s Corporation to rebrand a number of its channels—one of which was Fox Sports Detroit. And that’s not all, because…

Many Popular Platforms Dropped the Channels

Even if you know that Fox Sports Detroit is now Bally Sports Detroit, there’s a second, bigger hurdle to jump. In 2019 and 2020, several major streaming TV providers like YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, Dish Network, and Sling TV dropped regional Fox Sports channels. If you subscribe to any of those platforms, you won’t be able to use them to stream Detroit games.

Wait—There’s Good News

Thankfully, you’re not out of luck. While most streaming TV platforms don’t offer Bally Sports Detroit, some still do. Fubo is one of them—learn more at fubo.tv.

Not ready to switch providers? Bally Sports has its own streaming service, Bally Sports+, which costs $19.99/month or $239.88/year. The service gives you access to live games, pre- and post-game shows, polling, and more for the Pistons, Tigers, and Red Wings. It’s available within the Bally Sports app on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, iOS and Android devices, and via web browser at BallySports.com. Visit BallySports.com to learn more and sign up.

How About Those Lions?

Football fans have probably noticed something missing so far. If you’re looking for the Lions and only the Lions, you can disregard the information above. That’s because NFL games don’t rely on Bally Sports, which will give you more options to work with when the football season rolls around again. Visit the following websites for more information and pricing.

• Stream the NFL on CBS via Paramount+ (ParamountPlus.com)

• NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV (tv.youtube.com)

• NFL Network on Sling TV (sling.com)

• NFL Network on Hulu Live TV (hulu.com)

• NFL Network on Fubo TV (fubo.tv)

• NFL Plus—phones and tablets only (nfl.com)

Save Energy in Your Laundry Room

Unless you handwash your clothes or use a laundromat, you have no choice but to run your washing machine and dryer regularly—but you still have some options to help you scale back your energy usage.

• Wash with cold water: Switching from warm water to cold water can cut one load’s energy use by more than half.

• Wash full loads: Your washing machine uses the same amount of energy no matter the size of the clothes load, so fill it up.

• Use the highest spin speed: Doing so removes more moisture from your clothes, reducing drying time.

• Dry heavier cotton separately: Loads dry faster and more evenly.

• Use the cooldown feature on your dryer: Clothes finish drying with the remaining heat in the dryer.

• Dry on lower heat settings: Even if you dry for a longer amount of time, lower heat means less energy consumption.

• Use dryer balls instead of dryer sheets: Dryer balls help keep clothes separated for faster drying.

• Clean the lint filter after every load: Doing so helps reduce a potential fire hazard and improves air circulation.

• Inspect your dryer vent periodically: This helps the machine run more efficiently and reduces fire hazards. Also, use rigid venting materials, not plastic.

• Purchase Energy Star-rated washers and dryers: New washers and dryers that receive the Energy Star rating use about 20% less energy than conventional models.

Explore Energy.gov/Save

This website is your one-stop shop for all things energy efficiency. Whether your 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.

BEYOND MEDALS

The Enduring Spirit of Michigan’s Special Olympics

Athletes

By Emily Haines Lloyd

n 2000, the former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela said: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does…Sport can create hope where once there was only despair…It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination.”

In Michigan, there are some amazing athletes who would surely agree with Mr. Mandela.

SOMETHING SPECIAL IN THE MAKING

Since 1968, when the first Special Olympics Games were held at Chicago’s Soldier Field, these athletes with intellectual disabilities have been a force of inspiration and support for one another. The goal was to put a bright—and very public—spotlight on ability, not disability. A delegation of athletes from Michigan attended those original games. The next year, Michigan’s first State Summer Games took place in Kalamazoo at Western Michigan University.

Fifty years later, more than 5 million athletes train and compete in more than 100,000 events each year, in 172 nations. The program has grown perhaps more than anyone could have anticipated and the impact is massive. Yet it still brings meaning to one athlete, one coach, and one family at a time.

A SPARK OF INTEREST

Max Hinga was just 8 years old when his curiosity was sparked at his elementary school in Portage, Michigan, by a friend who fi rst mentioned Special Olympics to him. Max then began his sports journey with softball. “I was the youngest and smallest player on an almost all-adult team,” said Max. “But I was ready to go and felt at home.”

From that point on, Max’s involvement became a life-altering experience, introducing him to lifelong friendships and instilling in him a sense of belonging. Max’s mother Gretchen Hinga became equally involved, as she noticed there were significantly more adult athletes than those her son’s age. “Within a year, I was recruiting younger athletes,” said Gretchen. “With more

athletes comes the need for more volunteers. So, I started recruiting for volunteers.”

In no time, the numbers grew, and Gretchen found herself as the local outreach coordinator. She now plays a pivotal role in managing, coordinating, and organizing various aspects of the games, from athlete physicals to volunteer applications and verifying coaching credentials.

NURTURING A COMMUNITY OF INCLUSION

Max’s dedication extends beyond the playing field; he has become a U.S. Youth Ambassador, amplifying the voices of those who often go unheard. “Not everyone can get up and speak to the whole world about change and inclusion,” said Max. “I traveled with my Unified Partner and my mentor, spoke about inclusion, and learned how to spread the word to others.”

For Gretchen, Special Olympics is more than just a series of events; it is a community that provided support and companionship while Max was growing up. Now, as a coordinator, she is dedicated to extending that sense of community to others. “Special Olympics is about so much more than just sports. It is one big family of support and encouragement,” said Gretchen. “It is a lifelong movement and is for anyone.” She encourages those who may not qualify as athletes to become volunteers, assuring them that the experience will be life-changing.

A TRIUMPH OF ABILITIES OVER DISABILITIES

The impact of the games can’t be easily measured, as passion, inclusion, and growth of the athletes, families, and volunteers have an ongoing ripple effect that goes well beyond the sporting arena. “Special Olympics challenged me to not only want to get my driver’s license, but show many people I can be a leader,”

said Max. “We (athletes) can get a job, get a degree, and be who we want to be. I’ve turned my disabilities into abilities.”

This smart and capable young man insists that no one should ever say they can’t do something. Our efforts can’t be measured in medals or applause. It is the effort, the courage, and the joy with which we apply ourselves that tells the world who we are.

As Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who helped establish Special Olympics, said at the first opening games: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

FOR INFORMATION: somi.org

TO VOLUNTEER: somi.org/volunteer

TO DONATE: somi.org/waystogive

UNIFIED SPORTS & INCLUSION CENTER IN GRAND RAPIDS

For over 50 years, Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) has sought to create a community of inclusion where every person is accepted and welcomed, regardless of ability or disability.

In 2019, the SOMI Board of Directors purchased the former South Christian High School building in Grand Rapids with the dream of turning this 127,000-square-foot facility on 17 acres into the largest Special Olympics training and sports center in the world.

With the official groundbreaking in November 2023, the complex will feature six soccer fields, 10 bocce courts, putting and chipping greens, and pickleball courts, as well as an eight-lane track and an artificial turf soccer and flag football field.

Michigan Electric Co-ops Contribute Billions to State Economy, Says Latest Report

Arecent report by the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (CFC) and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) reveals the substantial economic influence of electric cooperatives in the United States, showcasing their significant contributions to job creation, income, and overall economic growth. This analysis, titled “Economic Powerhouses: The Economic Impacts of America’s Electric Cooperatives,” also highlights the impact at the state level, over a five-year period, with impressive numbers calculated for Michigan.

“Our state’s electric cooperatives power 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms in 60 of the 83 counties across rural Michigan,” said Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) President Craig Borr. “Co-ops are

a massive economic engine statewide, as well as in their local communities.”

The state impact numbers speak for themselves. Electric cooperatives in Michigan support approximately 7,388 jobs each year, with $5.3 billion contributed to the state’s Gross State Product (GSP).

The report identifies cooperatives’ role as economic engines in their communities, their commitment to supporting longterm community success, and their substantial investments in grid modernization, renewables, and broadband networks to reach rural members. The findings show what those in the cooperative community have always known— there is nothing more impactful and powerful than a mission that focuses on people and communities.

7,388

Notice to Electric Customers of Midwest Energy & Communications

Annual Board Meeting: April 16, 2024

The Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC) Board of Directors will hold its annual meeting, in accordance with P.A. 167 of 2008, on April 16, 2024, beginning at 10 a.m.

The meeting will be held at the headquarters office, 60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, Michigan, and is open to any MEC electric customer. Customers will have an opportunity to address the board. Comments may be submitted in advance to board.inquiries@teammidwest.com by Friday, April 12.

Statement Of Nondiscrimination

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

2. fax: (202) 690-7442; or

3. email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Old Friends

By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications member

It has been said that “old friends are the best friends.” I surely agree. Growing up in Grand Rapids, I began forming many friendships, beginning in kindergarten in 1950. In those days, we didn’t hang out with our parents much...we hung out with our friends. You could say we raised each other, as we were always together having fun.

Although I went to Culver Military Academy in high school, my GR friends kept in touch. I then moved to New Jersey and Florida for a few years. Several friends would visit me in Florida (imagine that), and one suggested that I transfer to Western Michigan University for my junior year, and sent the paperwork. I couldn’t wait to get back to Michigan and live off-campus with some of those same friends. We had the time of our lives!

During the late ‘60s/early ‘70s, most of us got married, raised children, and worked. Many moved out of state, making it difficult to get together. In 1981, however, one of the guys decided that enough was enough and started what we call “the boys’ weekend,” a time to reconnect and let loose. There were around 15 attendees that first year, many from out of state. Some years, an extra weekend was planned with the wives, who wanted to join in the fun. In 1993, we rented a cottage on Lake Michigan in South Haven, and we have been going there every September to this day. Unfortunately, we have lost a number of these dear friends over the years, but nine of us continue the tradition.

This May, we (and wives) are meeting in Grand Rapids to celebrate us all turning 80. We will take a bus tour of our childhood homes (16), then be dropped off at Roses for dinner. There is nothing like old friends, as we hold on to so many memories of good times together, while still making new memories!

About the Author: J. Joseph is a retired owner/manager of Bank Street Bingo Hall and Bank Street Winter Market in Kalamazoo.

His family’s history is interesting! The grandfather he was named after (Col. J. Joseph Reddy) was a medic and surgeon who was General Douglas MacArthur’s personal aide and physician in the Philippines in the 1930s.

Guest Column

Win $200 for stories published!

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

Where In Michigan Is This?

Identify the correct location of the photo to the left by March 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community

January 2024 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Eileen Gustafson, an Alger Delta member, who correctly identified the photo as the Benny the Beard Fisher art attraction at the Northland Outfitters Campground, Germfask, Michigan. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.

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