April 2025 PIE&G

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

April 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Play Ball!

CELEBRATING BASEBALL’S RETURN AND ITS COMMUNITY IMPACT

Power Outages Lineworker Day Utility Scams

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT1

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com

Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com

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

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

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

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

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/

Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com

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

Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

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

The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc 1. ENERGY START rated units qualify for 30% through 2030 and 26% through 2032 and 22% through 2033 .

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

April 2025 Vol. 45, No. 4 /michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

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, USPS591-710, 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.

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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: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy 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.

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

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MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

See details on page 10. Sandwiches and Wraps, due May 1; Best Potato Dishes, due July 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

GUEST COLUMN

Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published!

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

6 RESTORING POWER,

REBUILDING COMMUNITIES: THE STRENGTH OF MUTUAL AID Michigan lineworkers answered the call to provide hurricane relief after Milton and Helene.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN Smoothies & Shakes: Blend up these delicious and energizing concoctions.

14 PLAY BALL! CELEBRATING

BASEBALL’S RETURN AND ITS COMMUNITY IMPACT The Traverse City Pit Spitters come out swinging for a new season.

18 NO BARRIERS WARRIORS Applications now being accepted for No Barriers outdoor adventures.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Power Outages

What You Need to Know and How You Can Help

By Allan Berg, President & CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Have you ever watched a cooking show where a meal appears instantly after a quick edit? That’s a jump cut.

Sandy Borowicz, Chairperson 5341 Carlson Rd., Cheboygan, MI 49721 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2027

While we wish restoring power were that simple, it takes effort, planning, and teamwork.

Daryl Peterson, Vice Chairperson P.O. Box 54, Hillman, MI 49746 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2027 Sally Knopf, Secretary 1849 W. 638 Hwy., Rogers City, MI 49779 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2027 Brentt Lucas, Treasurer 15841 Carr Rd., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2025 John Brown 21 W. Devereaux Lake Rd., Indian River, MI 49749 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026 Kurt Krajniak 7630 Wallace Rd., Alpena, MI 49707 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2025 Chris Nagel 3842 N. Mielke Way, Lewiston, MI 49756 616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026 Gerald Smigelski 5375 Long Lake Hwy, Posen, MI 49776 989-306-3750 • Term Expires 2026 Raymond Wozniak 6737 State St., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-2498 • Term Expires 2025 President & CEO: Allan Berg aberg@pieg.com Co-op Editor: Sommer Poquette spoquette@pieg.com Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 Main Street (M-211) Onaway, MI 49765 Business Office & Billing: 989-733-8515 Toll-Free: 800-423-6634 Gas Emergency Toll-Free: 800-655-8565 PIE&G natural gas rates and charges are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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As the president and CEO of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op (PIE&G), I often hear members ask why power restoration takes time. Since we all rely on electricity, there’s never a convenient time for an outage.

This month, I want to shed light on what happens behind the scenes. Here are key things to know: • We need your help. If an outage affects only your home or neighborhood and isn’t reported, we may not know. Report outages at pieg.com/outage-center or call 1-800-423-6634.

• We’re local, too. Our employees are your neighbors and may also be affected by outages.

• It’s a team effort. Member service representatives take calls, engineers assess damage, field crews make repairs, and dispatchers coordinate the response.

• Safety comes first. Every outage is different. We evaluate conditions, gather materials, and plan a response that won’t disrupt service elsewhere.

Restoration starts at the areas closest to the substations, and then we work our way down the line to restore power as safely as possible.

• Crews face hazards. Working with high-voltage electricity is dangerous, but crews also deal with wildlife, weather, falling trees, and traffic. Please slow down when you see our vehicles.

• Flickering lights prevent larger outages. If your lights blink, our equipment is likely stopping an outage caused by tree limbs or animals.

• Have a backup plan. If you rely on electricity for medical equipment, ensure a plan for extended outages. Contact us if you need help locating emergency resources.

• Crews need breaks. If you see our trucks at a restaurant, crews are regrouping, planning, or taking a much-needed meal break.

• Sometimes, we wait, too. Our system connects to other utilities. If their equipment fails, we must wait for their repairs while supporting their efforts.

While we work hard to prevent disruptions, outages are inevitable. If your power goes out, rest assured your co-op team will work as safely and quickly as possible to restore it.

Report outages at pieg.com/outage-center or call 1-800-423-6634. pieg.com

/PIEGCooperative

/PIEGCooperative

CO-OP NEWS YOUR BOARD IN ACTION

HOLIDAY CLOSURES

At their most recent meeting, the PIE&G Board of Directors…

PIE&G will be closed on Friday, April 18, for Good Friday.

Report outages by calling 1-800-423-6634, and for natural gas emergencies, please call 1-800-655-8565.

Access your accounts anytime at pieg.com, on our MYPIE&G app, or with Pay by Phone at 1-855-939-3541.

• Approved Resolution 2025-MR-01 2024 Electric PSCR Reconciliation.

• Approved Resolution 2025-MR-02 2025 Electric Rate Review Analysis.

• Approved Resolution 2025-MR-03 2025 Electric Revenue Requirement.

• Approved Resolution 2025-MR-04 2025 Electric Rate Design.

• Approved Resolution 2025-MR-05 Revisions to PIE&G Rate Book to Update Opt Out Provisions to Advanced Metering Infrastructure.

• Approved Resolution 2025-03 Home Rule Gas TIER Analysis.

• Approved Resolution 2025-04 Natural Gas Cost Recovery Rate.

• Approved Resolution 2025-05 2025 Gas Rate Announcement.

• Approved Team Reports.

GO GREEN WITH PAPERLESS AUTOPAYMENTS Set up on-time, every time automatic credit card payments for peace of mind. It’s free and secure and ensures your payment is made on time. Get started today with any of these three options: • Online at pieg.com/payment-options • The MYPIE&G mobile app available on Google Play or the Apple Store • Our automatic phone system at (855) 939-3541 • In person at our office located at 3149 Main Street, Onaway, MI 49765

COMMON CAUSES OF POWER OUTAGES There is never a good time for the power to go out, but if it happens on a sunny day, you might be left wondering why. Here are the most common causes of a power outage.

Scheduled

MAINTENANCE WEATHER High winds, snow, and ice can cause tree limbs to fall on power lines. Other weather effects, like wildfires and lightning strikes, can cause major damage to equipment.

Occasionally, we plan outages to perform upgrades or repairs to parts of the local grid.

CRITTERS Squirrels, birds, snakes, and other animals can inadvertently contact power lines, causing short circuits and disruptions to electrical supply.

ACCIDENTS Vehicles can crash into utility poles, bringing down power lines. Construction and excavation work can also result in disruptions to underground lines.

Restoring Power, Rebuilding Communities The Strength of Mutual Aid

By Emily Haines Lloyd

When disaster strikes, electric cooperatives strike back. Whether it’s a hurricane in the South, an ice storm in the Midwest, or wildfires in the West, co-ops across the country rely on one another to restore power and rebuild communities.

This system, known as “mutual aid,” is one of the most powerful examples of cooperation in action, ensuring that no co-op is left to face a crisis alone.

Why Mutual Aid Matters Electric cooperatives are memberowned and service-driven. They exist entirely to provide safe, reliable, and affordable power to the communities they serve. This commitment extends beyond day-to-day operations—when a disaster causes widespread outages, co-ops immediately step up to help each other.

Through mutual aid agreements, cooperatives across the country can quickly deploy crews, equipment, and resources to areas hit hardest by storms or other emergencies. This rapid response ensures that power is restored as quickly and safely as possible, minimizing hardship for affected communities. More importantly, it upholds the cooperative principle of Concern for Community, demonstrating that co-ops do more than provide electricity—they support the people who depend on it.

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Cooperation Among Cooperatives Mutual aid is a direct reflection of another cooperative principle— Cooperation Among Cooperatives.

Electric co-ops are relatively small compared to large investor-owned utilities, but by working together, they create a vast, nationwide support network capable of tackling even the most extreme challenges.

“When help is needed, co-ops don’t hesitate to answer the call,” said Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) Safety Director Joe McElroy. “It’s who we are.”

Mutual Aid in Action

Stronger Together

Last fall, when Hurricane Milton caused widespread destruction across Florida, nearly 30 Michigan co-op lineworkers answered the call, joining crews from over 15 states to restore power in the hardest-hit areas. Michigan co-op lineworkers also joined crews to help with the devastation in South Carolina caused

by Hurricane Helene.

The mutual aid system is one of the strongest examples of the cooperative difference. It’s not just about restoring power—it’s about restoring communities. When co-ops band together, they demonstrate that service, resilience, and teamwork can overcome even the most devastating challenges.

Residents in Florida and South Carolina expressed their appreciation by offering meals and a place to shower. Even retired lineworkers came out of retirement to lend a hand.

As we prepare for National Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 18, we recognize the dedication and sacrifice of the lineworkers who make mutual aid possible. Their commitment to helping co-ops near and far ensures that no community faces a crisis alone.

April 18 is National Lineworker Appreciation Day, a time to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who keep the lights on in homes and businesses across America.

Lineworkers face immense challenges every day. Carrying heavy gear, they scale 40-foot poles near high-voltage power lines—often in extreme weather or in the aftermath of natural disasters. As the first responders of our electric distribution system, they work around the clock, braving dangerous conditions to ensure reliable service for our members.

Their commitment goes beyond the call of duty. Whether it’s responding to local outages or traveling hundreds of miles to assist fellow cooperatives in times of crisis, they exemplify the cooperative spirit of service and resilience.

Every day, lineworkers keep the lights on—on April 18, we shine a light on them.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Go Green, Get Green for Recycling and Replacing Appliances Celebrate Earth Day and put some extra cash in your pocket with PIE&G! Residential electric members are eligible to receive cash rebates through our Energy Optimization Appliance Recycling program. Go green and get green for recycling your old working-condition appliances—and we’ll pick them up for free!

option. As a PIE&G member, you have access to savings on qualifying new appliances through the Energy Optimization program. From refrigerators and freezers to washers and dryers, you can receive a rebate to help offset the cost of your new equipment. Visit pieg.com/eo to see the full list of appliance rebates.

Why recycle appliances?

Schedule your FREE pickup starting April 7!

Appliance recycling is the right route to take considering some appliances require special care when it comes to disposal. For instance, the refrigerants from your home freezer or fridge are required by law to be removed!1 Other benefits of proper recycling include:

What better time to recycle your old appliances and save some energy (and money)? The Appliance Recycling program is seasonal and runs from April–October.

Appointments are limited and should be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Beginning Monday, April 7, contact the PIE&G Energy Optimization team Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. EST at (877) 296-4319 to schedule an appointment.

1. Preventing hazardous materials (like those refrigerants) from ending up in a landfill2 2. Reducing carbon emissions 3. Reducing energy consumption by removing old, inefficient products from use

Looking for a new appliance?

Once you’ve recycled your old appliances, you may be interested in replacing them with a more efficient, newer

Questions about the Energy Optimization program? Visit pieg.com/eo or give us a call at (877) 296-4319 to learn more about our available offerings.

1 https://www.energystar.gov/products/recycle/ find_fridge_freezer_recycling_program 2 https://www.epa.gov/rad/consumers

Get Paid for Free Pick-Up & Recycling of Your Old Appliances Need a replacement? Get cash back again when you purchase a qualifying new, efficient model.

Restrictions apply. See website for details.

pieg.com/eo • (877) 296-4319 Presque Isle Energy Optimization programs and rebates are applicable to Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op electric service locations only. Rebate applies to quali ied items purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025. Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit pieg.com/eo.

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

NIGHTTIME NARR ATIVES MOST VOTES

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1. MOST VOTES Setting summer sun.

Jenny Rauchenstein 2. Moonlight backyard. Randy Niederhouse 3. Bedtime stories of celestial wonder written in the skies of Onaway.

Heather Notter 4. A beautifully bright, colorful semi truck in the 2024 Richard Crane Memorial Truck Show Parade of Lights through Mackinaw City!

Donald Wilton II 5. Perfect “night light”! Kathryn Scoon 6. Full moon over America. Tina Gerke 7. Moon and Venus in the evening sky.

Tom Conquest 8. Moon over the Ocqueoc River.

Virginia Janiszewski 9. Moon light, moon bright.

Gloria Zalewski 10. The northern lights in all their glory!

A lake in Montmorency County glows like never before back in May of 2024. The first time we got to see the aurora and it did not disappoint. We chased them around in 2023 near Presque Isle but were not successful till this! WOW! Mike Lavens

Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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Submit your Lighthouse Legends photos by April 25 for the June issue! Submit your best photo and encourage others to vote!

The photo receiving the most votes in our photo contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites.

To enter the contest, visit pieg.com/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2025, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2026 bill.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

SMOOTHIES & SHAKES Blend up these delicious and energizing concoctions.

WINNING RECIPE!

PEANUT BUTTER BANANA BREAD SMOOTHIE

Cynthia Hodges, Ontonagon REA 2 bananas, peeled, sliced and frozen 1 cup skim milk ½ cup old-fashioned oats (uncooked) 1 container (5.3-ounce) plain nonfat Icelandic or Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon • pinch of ground nutmeg • pinch of salt 1 teaspoon maple syrup 2 tablespoons peanut butter powder Add all ingredients to a blender and pulse until smooth. Garnish with bananas and peanuts, if desired.

Serve immediately.

Note: Many people these days are trying to get more protein and fiber in their diet. This smoothie features 7 g fiber and 21 g protein. Plus, it’s got a nutritious boost of calcium. Enjoy!

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Sandwiches and Wraps, due May 1; Best Potato Dishes, 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.

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REFUELING SHAKE

Mary Kaminski, Ontonagon REA 1 cup almond milk 1 cup ice cubes • big dollop of peanut butter 1 banana, sliced Blend all ingredients till smooth and enjoy! You can make it thicker or thinner with more ice or almond milk, respectively. You can also add a squeeze of chocolate syrup to give it a new flavor.

Note: A great drink post-exercise as it is important to refuel after exercise to replenish calories and restore glycogen levels (as per Nancy Clark, sports nutritionist). It can also be enjoyed any time you need a boost of energy, quick calories, or a healthy treat.

FRUIT SMOOTHIE

David Gibson, Midwest Energy & Communications 1 cup Greek yogurt 1 cup spinach or kale 1½ cups frozen fruit (your choice) • Honey to taste 1 cup milk or juice Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

MORNING SMOOTHIE

Rosemary Malbin, Great Lakes Energy 1 protein shake (any brand, flavor, and protein count of your choice) ¼ cup cottage cheese 1 avocado or banana ¼ cup your choice of nuts Add all ingredients in a blender and pulse until nuts are pulverized.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

National Safe Digging Month:

Always Call 811 Before You Dig April is National Safe Digging Month, a reminder that whether you’re planting a tree, installing a fence, or setting up a new mailbox, calling 811 before you dig is essential for safety. Even small projects can lead to big problems if underground utility lines are damaged.

Do I Really Need to Call 811?

Yes! Any time you put a shovel in the ground, you need to contact 811. It’s a free service that prevents accidents, service outages, costly repairs, and serious injuries.

Common Digging Projects & Why You Need to Call I’m just planting flowers or a bush...

Many utility lines are buried just inches below the surface. A simple gardening

project could result in hitting an electric, fiber, gas, or water line.

I’m only installing a mailbox...

Buried lines are everywhere—even in areas you wouldn’t expect. Hitting a line could knock out power, internet, or other services to your home and neighborhood. It could also result in costly fines and serious injuries. Don’t take chances—make the call.

I’ve dug in this spot before...

Underground utilities shift over time due to erosion, root growth, and utility maintenance. The markings from a previous project may no longer be accurate. You must call 811 before every dig, no matter how many times you’ve worked in that area.

My contractor or landscaper is doing the digging...

Even if you’re hiring a professional, you must confirm that 811 has been contacted before work begins. Either you or the contractor should make the call. Never assume they have already done it—verify before they dig.

I’m only digging in a small area and don’t want my whole yard marked...

If your project is limited to a specific spot, you can mark that area with white paint or white flags (available at home improvement stores). Inform the 811 center about your plans, and they will ensure only the necessary area is marked.

It’s Free. It’s Easy. It’s the Law. Calling 811 before you dig is a simple step that protects you, your community, and your property. Don’t make a judgment call—make the call to 811 every time you dig!

For more information or to submit an online request, visit www.call811.com.

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How to Avoid Utility Scams

Tips to Stay Safe

Utility scams are increasingly common, especially following significant storms, disasters, or seasonal billing spikes.

Scammers often target customers by phone, email, text, or even in person, posing as Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op (PIE&G) representatives to steal personal information or demand fraudulent payments. Understanding their tactics and how to protect yourself can help you avoid falling victim.

Common Utility Scams to Watch For 1. Power Restoration Rip-Offs After storms or natural disasters, scammers may claim they can restore your power faster if you make an immediate payment. PIE&G never charges to restore power after an outage. If repairs to customer-owned equipment are needed, PIE&G will recommend working with a licensed contractor. Any fees will be billed through your official account.

2. Overpayment Refund Scams Scammers may contact you, claiming you have overpaid your bill and need to provide banking or credit card information to receive a refund. PIE&G typically applies overpayment credits to your account or issues refunds via mailed checks. If you receive a suspicious message, verify its authenticity by contacting PIE&G directly.

3. Fake Utility Websites Fraudulent websites that look like PIE&G’s official site can steal your login credentials and payment information.

Always type PIE&G’s web address directly into your browser and look for signs of a secure website, such as “https://” and a padlock icon in the address bar. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails or texts.

4. Immediate Payment Demands Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming your service will be disconnected unless you make an immediate payment. They may request payment through untraceable methods like prepaid cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Please remember that PIE&G representatives will never ask for your bank information over the phone.

5. Impersonation of Utility Employees Some scammers may show up in person, posing as PIE&G workers, to access your home or property. Always ask for identification and verify their credentials with PIE&G before allowing anyone inside.

Additional Tips to Protect Yourself from Utility Scams • Verify Suspicious Contacts: If you receive an unexpected call, email, or text about your utility account, verify the information by contacting PIE&G at (800) 423-6634 or visiting pieg.com.

• Know Your Payment Options: Familiarize yourself with PIE&G’s accepted payment methods. Be cautious if someone requests unusual forms of payment, such as cryptocurrency, prepaid debit cards, or gift cards. Payment options can be found at pieg.com/payment-options.

• Review Your Bills Regularly: Check your utility bills for unexpected charges, changes, or suspicious activity.

Report any discrepancies to PIE&G immediately.

• Secure Your Online Account: Use long, unique passwords with 12+ characters for your PIE&G account and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if available.

Never share your account credentials with anyone.

• Protect Your Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information, such as your Social Security number, banking details, or account number, unless you are confident you are speaking with a legitimate PIE&G representative.

• Report Scams: If you encounter a suspected utility scam, report it to local law enforcement and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your PIE&G account or work being done by PIE&G crew members, please contact our Member Services team directly at (800) 423-6634 to verify any information. Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages.

How PIE&G Communicates with Customers PIE&G follows specific procedures when contacting customers. The company provides advance notice of service interruptions, overdue payments, or required repairs.

Communication is usually delivered through official letters, emails, phone calls, or account notifications. PIE&G does not threaten immediate disconnection without prior notice or demand payment through unusual methods.

If you ever feel pressured or uncertain during a conversation, hang up and call PIE&G directly using the contact information from your bill or their official website.

Stay Vigilant Utility scams can be stressful but staying informed and vigilant is the best defense. You can safeguard your personal information and finances by recognizing common scam tactics and following these protective measures.

Always verify suspicious communications, never share sensitive information, and report any suspicious activity.

For more information on avoiding utility scams, visit utilitiesunited.org or contact PIE&G at (800) 423-6634.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

! l l a B y a l P CELEBRATING BASEBALL’S RETURN AND ITS COMMUNITY IMPACT

By Yvette Pecha

T

here are perhaps no two words in the English language that can evoke as much excitement and hope as “Play ball!”

Baseball season is around the corner, and folks all over the country are rejoicing in its return.

In Michigan and other states with long, cold winters, the return of baseball also signifies a return to spring and embracing the outdoors. Daffodils are starting to push through the soil and robin sightings are becoming more frequent, but for some, the season’s true arrival is marked by the crack of a bat.

Beyond the Big Leagues: the Traverse City Pit Spitters Many of us will pay close attention to the Detroit Tigers, who came out of nowhere last season to make it to the playoffs for the first time in 10 years.

But the allure of baseball is not limited to those in large city locales with professional teams.

“Here, baseball isn’t just about the sport itself,” said Traverse City Pit Spitters General Manager Jacqueline Holm. “The Pit Spitters are a community asset—they’re part of the fabric that makes Traverse City a great place to live and work.” The team is part of the Northwoods League, which serves as a career development hub for collegiate players once the college baseball season ends. The league also has five softball teams; their inaugural season was in 2024.

A Unique Fan Experience Holm says the small-scale operation brings a sense of belonging that might not be found in the big leagues.

“Accessibility is really unparalleled. If you’re at a Tigers game, you’re not ever going to get the chance to talk to the catcher,” she said. “At this level, you can get to know the usher in your section,

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you can go to local entertainment events tied in to the team. And you could be seeing history in the making— many of these players have big-league potential and it’s just a matter of time before they get called up.” In fact, in recent years, more than 160 Northwoods League alumni have been drafted annually, and since 2019, 18 have come from the Pit Spitters’ roster.

Economic Impact and Community Support In addition to offering spectators an intimate experience, the Pit Spitters are a vital part of the Traverse City business community—creating jobs, stimulating local entertainment spending, and providing visibility for other small businesses. Holm says the team has a $1.5 to $2 million impact each year. Because Turtle Creek Stadium, a Cherryland Electric Cooperative member and the Pit Spitters’ home base, is privately owned and funded, local support is vital to the success of the team. “Every dollar we make, we reinvest into the facility and the fan experience,” said Holm. “We continue to create this long-term, sustainable partnership so we can stay around and continue to make a difference in the community.”

“The Pit Spitters are a community asset–they’re part of the fabric that makes Traverse City a great place to live and work.”

Giving Back: the Pit Spitters Community Foundation In keeping with the spirit of giving back, the Pit Spitters Community Foundation was established last year.

The foundation strives to support local philanthropic initiatives, help other nearby organizations thrive, and enrich the lives of local youth and their families. Part of these efforts include hosting two annual youth baseball clinics where players, coaching staff, and team managers work with the kids on technique and conditioning.

The foundation also hosts seven 50/50 raffles during Pit Spitters home games and oversees a jersey auction, with proceeds benefiting various community programs and initiatives.

The Power of Baseball The philanthropy and sense of community wouldn’t be possible, however, without the spirit of and love for the game. “Everyone really rallies around this sport,” said Holm.

“Baseball is one of the universal languages. Anyone can turn on a TV or go to a Little League game, and they’re going to understand what’s happening. Simply, it’s a great unifier, and I love what it does for those who live, work, and play in this area.”

Want to catch all the action and experience the

excitement of Pit Spitters baseball? Check out the 2025 schedule, grab your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable season!

Turtle Creek Stadium 333 Stadium Drive, Traverse City, MI 49685 northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pit-spitters 231-943-0100 Follow the team on Facebook & Instagram: @tcpitspitters Don’t miss your chance to cheer on the team and be part of the Pit Spitters community!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Easily Manage Your Account with SmartHub & the NEW MYPIE&G Mobile App! The best way to manage your account and pay your bill is through SmartHub, available 24/7 online and on mobile.

ONLINE ACCESS (WEB BROWSER) Log into SmartHub, where you can securely pay your bill using a check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express) and submit meter readings. If you have multiple accounts, please verify each payment amount and account number before submitting your payment. New users can register directly on the SmartHub landing page.

Learn more by visiting pieg.com/payment-options.

NEW MYPIE&G MOBILE APP Download the new MYPIE&G mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for the most convenient experience. You can view your usage, pay your bill, and more!

All new users will need to use the MYPIE&G app, which is branded for PIE&G and offers features that SmartHub doesn’t have. If you currently use the SmartHub app, you can keep using it, but we recommend switching to the MYPIE&G app for the best experience.

Download the NEW MYPIE&G Mobile App!

Protect ALL your devices ProtectIQTM Network Security

With the explosion of the Internet of Things, consumers have access to everything from smartphones to smart fridges. These interconnected devices may make life more convenient—but they may also leave users more vulnerable to security issues.

As new smart technologies enable data to move more freely across networks and devices, users must be equally smart about how they defend their data against hackers.

Many of these systems have simple or no built-in security considerations and a lot of IT professionals would tell you that you need to set up a separate home network for everything other than your PCs and smartphones. We say that these IT professionals need to go back to school. You don't need more than one network if you have a GigaSpire with ProtectlQ. With ProtectlQ™, you will receive the internet security you need. It leverages a large cloud database of known virus and ransomware threats. By looking for the specific signatures of these threats in real-time, ProtectlQ can terminate the transfer of data before a malicious payload is delivered to any vulnerable devices in the network. As new threats are emerging daily, the threat database is continuously updated to offer protection against the latest threats. ProtectlQ is a network-level security application that works quietly in the background and proactively keeps malicious websites, viruses, and intrusion away from your home 24/7.

Ready to get protected? Join the Connect family by calling (800) 423-6634 or visit piegconnect.com to apply online.

ProtectIQ Network Security exclusively from

2025

NO BARRIERS

ADVENTURES FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY DISABILITIES—APPLY BY MAY 15 IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS & EXPERIENCES TAKING PLACE JUNE-SEPTEMBER

No Barriers Programs Serve: • People with disabilities • Veterans with disabilities • Youth with disabilities & their families • Family caregivers Michigan electric cooperatives believe there should be “No Barriers” for people affected by disabilities.

That’s the name and idea behind CoBank’s No Barriers initiative. Michigan cooperatives are seeking affected adults, veterans*, youth, and caregivers from our local community to participate in No Barriers’ multi-day basecamp experiences and backcountry experiences, where participants will learn to overcome challenges and leave ready to elevate their lives and communities.

Full and partial scholarship opportunities for qualified applicants** *Must have VA disability rating to be eligible. **Fundraising required for those who do not qualify for a scholarship.

18 APRIL 2025

Apply by May 15 to be considered!

In-person programs run from June to September Learn more & apply: nobarriersusa.org Contact us: info@nobarriersusa.org 970-484-3633, ext. 201

Don’t miss this chance to embark on an unforgettable journey. Apply today!

Geothermal Made Affordable

The most affordable heating and cooling solution for rural homeowners.

Save big with hybrid geothermal.

I love the system.

It saved over 1,000 gallons of propane the first year.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

- Robert S, a MEC co-op member

Connect with Your Local Installer (989) 356-2113 wellconnectgeo.com

Add a Well-Connect to your furnace in one day.

pieg.com

/PIEGCooperative

/PIEGCooperative

THANK YOU, LINEWORKERS!