April 2026 PIE&G

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

April 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

A CASTLE MADE FOR STORIES:

Castle Farms hosts ‘Antiques Roadshow’ Strategic Priorities

Lineworker Appreciation Day Is April 18

Work Zone Safety

Geo so comfortable, all the bases want to be home.

Safe comfort with no combustion or flames.

Geothermal so comfortable, all the bases want to be home.

WaterFurnace geothermal home heating & cooling systems provide reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—rain or shine, day or night, windy or not. They use the stored solar energy in the ground to provide your family luxurious comfort and incredible savings. In fact, it’s the only HVAC system that pays you back. Plus, many state, local, and utility programs offer incentives to lower installation costs. Be safe at home—contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to make geothermal your go-to for home comfort.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

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

Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

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

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

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

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

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

Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 www.tmcmechanicalllc.com

Cadillac Wilder Htg & Clg (231) 645-4822 Wilderheatingandcooling.com

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

Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com

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

Gaylord Family Plmb & Htg (989) 732-8099 familyplumbingandheating.com

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southern-michigan

The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

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

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

ELECTRIC CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 Westmigeothermal.com

$2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

April 2026 Vol. 46, 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; John Kran, 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.

visit waterfurnace.com

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

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MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

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6 HOME FIRE SAFETY CHECKLIST Easy ways you can be prepared for fire and carbon monoxide emergencies.

See details on page 10. Chill Out! No-Cook, due May 1; Pizza, due June 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

GUEST COLUMN

14 A CASTLE MADE FOR

See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published!

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

Rice Dishes: Stirred, steamed, and savored.

STORIES: CASTLE FARMS HOSTS ‘ANTIQUES ROADSHOW’ For three days, history was shared, celebrated, and brought to life.

18 GUEST COLUMN

A North Woods Matriarch: A HomeWorks member honors her great-grandmother—a true “up north” pioneer.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sandy Borowicz, Chairperson 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2027 Daryl Peterson, Vice Chairperson 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2027

Building and Protecting the Trust of Our Members

By Allan Berg, President & CEO

At Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, everything we do is grounded in one simple fact: we are owned by the members we serve. That cooperative model is a promise.

It means we are accountable to you, guided by your best interests, and committed to earning your trust every day.

Gerald Smigelski, Secretary 989-306-3750 • Term Expires 2026 Brentt Lucas, Treasurer 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2028 John Brown 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026 Kurt Krajniak 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2028 Sally Knopf 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2027 Chris Nagel 616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026 Michael Libby 989-306-1730 • Term Expires 2028 President & CEO: Allan Berg aberg@pieg.com Chief Marketing Officer: David Eiben deiben@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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Member Trust is one of our five strategic pillars— along with Reliability, Safety, People, and Financial Stewardship—and it touches every part of our organization. Trust begins with transparency. Whether we’re discussing system investments for electric, gas, and fiber through our Securing Our Future plan, explaining rate adjustments, or sharing updates after major storms, you deserve clear and honest communication. You should understand not only what decisions we’re making, but why we’re making them.

Improved communication is a priority for us in 2026. That includes more proactive outage updates, clearer billing information, expanded digital tools, and more opportunities for members to engage with your co-op directly. We know that you expect timely information, especially when your power is out or you have questions about your fiber or gas service. Our commitment is to communicate earlier, more clearly, and more consistently.

Trust is also built by following through. When we say we will expand fiber service, strengthen the grid, reduce outage times, or improve response during storms, we take that responsibility seriously. The investments we’re making, from modernizing infrastructure to enhancing technology and crew deployment, are about delivering on the commitments we’ve made to our members. Words matter, but we know results matter to you even more.

Finally, trust is rooted in the value of being cooperative. Unlike investorowned utilities, we don’t answer to Wall Street shareholders. We ensure margins are reinvested back into the system, used to maintain reliability and affordability, or returned to members as capital credits. Local control means local accountability—and that’s something we’re proud of.

We also understand that while trust is earned over time, it can be lost quickly.

That’s why we approach every decision with a long-term mindset and a clear focus on serving our membership with integrity.

Thank you for your continued confidence in PIE&G. We are proud to serve you and are committed to strengthening that trust through transparency, communication, and follow-through, today and in the years ahead.

pieg.com

/PIEGCooperative

/PIEGCooperative

RELIABILITY

SAFETY

Strengthen system performance, infrastructure, and operational resilience

Build and maintain a culture of safety that protects employees, members, and the public

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STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

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MEMBER TRUST

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

Increase member confidence through transparency, community, communication, and service

Maintain strong finances while keeping electric, gas, and fiber rates competitive

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PEOPLE Foster a culture of engagement, leadership, and accountability with our employees and our community

HOME FIRE SAFETY CHECKLIST For Residents/Citizens

SMOKE ALARMS  Have Smoke Alarms — Install one in every bedroom or sleeping area and one on every level of your home.  Have the Correct Smoke Alarms • Standard — Photoelectric or ionization smoke alarms.

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS (CO)  Have CO Alarms — Install a working CO alarm on every level of your home.  Best Placement — CO alarms are best near kitchens, garages, utility rooms, appliances.  Change CO Alarms — Install new CO alarms every 6 to 8 years.

• Bed Shakers — For hearing impaired, deaf, elderly.

• Strobe Lights — For hearing impaired, deaf, elderly. Plugs directly into the wall.

Industrial strobe.

• Nest — Smoke/CO combo that alerts your phone when it goes off. 

Test Your Alarms — Press the smoke alarm test button once a month to assure your alarms work.

 Change Batteries — For 9-volt battery smoke alarms, change batteries once a year or when alarm chirps.

Did You Know?

Safety Tip

If you are having any symptoms like: • Headache • Dizziness • Weakness • Upset stomach • Vomiting • Chest pain • Confusion Please call your local fire department to come evaluate your home CO level.

Most fire deaths happen overnight, and a closed bedroom door can slow the spread of flames and reduce smoke inhalation, potentially saving your life.

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FIRE SAFETY INFORMATION! Check out the MI Prevention fire safety information for more tips and videos on fire safety!

Scan the QR code or visit miprevention.org

 Plan Your Escape — Have a plan designed around your abilities.

Things to Consider

• Can you get out on your own without equipment or assistance?

• If you need equipment, be sure it is accessible at all times.

• If you need someone to assist you and answer the who, what, when, where, and how.

• Make sure your equipment fits through all exits.

• Use a bedroom on ground floor close to an exit if possible.

• Install exit ramps or widen door to make escape easier.

 Know Two Ways Out — Include family, neighbors, friends, or a building manager in practicing your escape plan.  Windows and Doors — Practice opening locked windows and doors.  Service Animals — Be sure to include any service animals in your plan.  Need Extra Help? — Call your local fire department’s nonemergency number if you need help with your escape planning.

Did You Know?

PREPARE A GO BAG In a fire, you have very little time to escape. Be prepared by having essential items in a bag that you or first responders can easily grab.  Seven (7)-day supply of necessary medications.  Emergency contact information.  Contact information for equipment replacements.  Necessary medical supplies/refills.

CALLING 911 When contacting 911, be sure to tell dispatcher:  Full name.  Nature of disability.  Your exact location within home.  Any necessary/life-saving equipment needed (e.g., wheelchairs, medication, oxygen).

Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire fatalities. For your safety: • Never smoke in bed.

• Never smoke when tired.

• Never smoke when under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• Never smoke while on medical oxygen.

Source: miprevention.org

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

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Cleaner Air Starts at Home This Earth Day The theme for Earth Day 2026 is “Our Power, Our Planet,” and it reflects on the fundamental truth that environmental progress is sustained by daily actions of communities, educators, workers, and families protecting where they live and work.1

This Earth Day, consider how small improvements inside your home can support a healthier household while using energy wisely. Many newer air purifier models are built with efficiency in mind, helping you maintain better air quality without significantly increasing energy use.

While we often think about protecting outdoor spaces, the air inside our homes matters just as much. In fact, indoor air can contain dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke particles, and other pollutants that affect comfort and overall well-being.

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting energyefficient choices, Presque Isle Electric & Gas offers rebates on qualifying air purifiers. These rebates are designed to make it more affordable for members to invest in equipment that improves comfort and supports efficient energy use.

For many families, especially during allergy season or in the colder months when windows stay closed, indoor air quality can make a noticeable difference. That’s where energy-efficient air purifiers can help.

Modern air purifiers are designed to capture fine airborne particles you may not even see. By reducing common irritants and improving air circulation, they help create a fresher, more comfortable living environment year-round.

Whether you’re managing seasonal allergies, lingering cooking odors, or everyday dust, an air purifier can be a practical step toward cleaner indoor air.

Small changes like choosing ENERGY STAR products are one way we can work together to care for both our homes and the environment. This Earth Day, take a moment to consider simple upgrades that can make a lasting difference where you live and breathe every day.

Visit pieg.com/energy-optimization-rebates/ to learn more about air purifier rebates and other rebates and energysavings incentives Presque Isle Electric & Gas is offering.

1 earthday.org

BREATHE EASIER THIS EARTH DAY Celebrate Earth Day with healthier indoor air!

Why Use an Air Purifier?

• • •

Reduces allergens like pollen and dust Improves indoor air quality year-round Supports healthier breathing and better sleep

An ENERGY STAR® qualified air purifier helps create a healthier home while supporting energy smart living. Presque Isle Electric & Gas is offering rebates on qualifying room air purifiers. Visit pieg.com/energy-optimization-rebates/ for more information on rebates.

Cleaner Air Starts at Home

Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit pieg.com/energy-optimization-rebates/

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES MOST VOTES

1. MOST VOTES Ice bath on East Twin Lake. Michele Raymond 2. Night skiing casts a giant shadow at Crystal Mountain.

Kimberly Bonacorsi 3. Labor Day Mackinac Bridge walk. Gloria Zalewski 4. Curling Championship.

Sandra Dunham

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5. I needed a moment, Indian River, MI. Annette Bartush 6. Let’s have some fun!

Jerry Pawlaczyk 7. Joyriding. Katie Duczkowski 8. Trolling for walleye out on Lake Huron. Paul Hinman 9. Solitude on Lake Huron.

Jan Hannah

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5 Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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Submit your Fresh From The Garden 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 2026, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2027 bill.

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

WINNING RECIPE! ASPARAGUS & RICE SALAD W/ PINE NUTS Susan Cusick, Great Lakes Energy

RICE DISHES Stirred, Steamed, and Savored.

1 cup white long-grain rice, uncooked ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 pound asparagus, washed, trimmed, and cut into 1-inch pieces ¼ cup pine nuts (can be pre-toasted) ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ½ cup chopped green onions ¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, for topping Cook the rice according to package directions until tender, then remove from heat. Let stand uncovered to cool, and fluff with a fork. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Sauté the asparagus, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender. Transfer to a bowl of cold water and drain; set aside.

In a small dry skillet, toast the pine nuts (if untoasted) over medium heat until golden and fragrant, stirring often and watching closely to prevent burning. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, remaining ¼ cup olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Add the cooled rice, asparagus, and green onions; toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust spices. Transfer the mixture to a shallow serving dish. Top with the toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese, and serve at room temperature.

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

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Chill Out! No-Cook, due May 1; Pizza, due June 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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WILD RICE SOUP Jessica Arnold, Great Lakes Energy 1 (6-ounce) box wild rice mix 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped 2 stalks celery, finely chopped ¾ cup all-purpose flour 2 quarts chicken broth/stock 2 cups cooked and shredded boneless chicken 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced ¼ teaspoon salt, or more to taste ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup half and half 2 tablespoons dried parsley 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed

JAMBALAYA Leah Ollanketo, Ontonagon REA 1 tablespoon oil 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-size cubes 1 pound andouille sausage, thinly sliced 12 ounces frozen cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 onion, peeled and chopped 4 green onions, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 3 celery ribs, finely chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1½ teaspoons dried basil 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes 2½ cups chicken broth 1¼ cups long-grain white rice

BAKED CHICKEN AND RICE Terry LaCost, Great Lakes Energy 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ cup butter or margarine (½ stick) 2 cups boiling water 3 chicken bouillon cubes 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes (or fresh chopped onion, to taste) 1 cup uncooked rice • paprika, for sprinkling

Prepare the wild rice according to the package directions and set aside. In a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle in the fl our and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and continue cooking until the mixture begins to thicken slightly. Add the cooked chicken, mushrooms, salt, and black pepper and stir. Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the cooked wild rice, half and half, dried parsley, and cubed Velveeta cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth, then serve warm and enjoy.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil and cook the chicken until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165 F, then remove from the skillet and set aside. Add the andouille sausage to the same skillet and cook until browned, then remove and set aside with the chicken. Thaw the shrimp under cold running water and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter and flour to the skillet, and stir continuously while scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan to form a roux. Add the onion, green onions, garlic, celery, and bell pepper and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the basil, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and diced tomatoes. Then add the chicken broth and rice and bring the mixture to a boil. Return the chicken, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and let stand for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Preheat the oven to 400 F. On a plate or cutting board, season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the butter in a shallow 2-quart baking dish (a 9x13-inch dish works well) and melt it in the hot oven.

Carefully add the chicken to the dish and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven, transfer the chicken to a plate, and to the melted butter, add the boiling water, chicken bouillon cubes, onion, and uncooked rice until well combined.

Transfer the chicken back in the dish and cover with the rice mixture. Then return the dish back to the oven to bake for 40 minutes longer, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Sprinkle with paprika just before serving.

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your phone. With strong fiber internet, multiple people in your household can stream simultaneously without interruption. In addition, streaming gives you more control over how and when you watch. Many services let you view content on demand, pause live TV, skip commercials on select plans, and rewatch your favorite shows whenever you want.

Streaming Made Simple with PIE&G Connect What is streaming video?

Streaming video is TV and entertainment delivered through your internet connection instead of traditional cable or satellite. With reliable high-speed fiber from PIE&G Connect, you can watch what you want, when you want, on the devices you already have at home.

What equipment do I need?

To enjoy streaming at home, you will need: • Fast, reliable internet like PIE&G Connect • A streaming device such as Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, or Roku connected to your TV and WiFi • A Smart TV connected to the internet • Or a tablet, laptop, or smartphone connected to WiFi • A subscription to streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube TV, Hulu, Max, Prime Video, or ESPN Plus

How do I subscribe?

Once your device is connected to your PIE&G Connect internet, simply open the app store on your Smart TV or streaming device. Browse available

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streaming apps, review pricing and features, create an account, and choose the services that fit your household. Most subscriptions are month to month, so you can change them at any time.

There are several types of streaming services available. On-demand streaming allows you to watch movies and TV shows whenever it fits your schedule, with the ability to pause, rewind, and rewatch as often as you like. Popular services include Netflix, Disney+, Max, and Prime Video.

Live streaming lets you watch news, sports, and events as they happen, with services such as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offering live channel lineups similar to traditional TV. Many providers now offer a combination of live and on-demand content, giving you the flexibility to watch programs in real time or catch up later at your convenience.

What channels or shows are included?

Each streaming service offers different channels, shows, and movies.

Websites like mybundle.tv can help you compare options based on your favorite channels, shows, and budget.

You can also visit provider websites directly to browse their live channel lineups or on-demand libraries.

What are the benefits of streaming?

Many households switch to streaming to better manage their monthly expenses. There are free streaming options, along with affordable subscription services that often cost less than traditional cable packages, so you can pay only for the content you actually want to watch. Streaming also offers flexibility throughout your home. You can start a movie in the living room, finish it on your tablet in the kitchen, or catch up on a show from

Ready to start streaming?

PIE&G Connect gives you the speed and reliability your family needs for smooth streaming in every room.

Call 800-423-6634 today to learn more about fiber internet in your area or visit piegconnect.com to check availability and sign up online.

Statement Of Nondiscrimination

Your Board In Action • Adopted Board Resolutions 2026-03, 2026-04, and 2026-05 regarding natural gas rates • Voted to opt in for the Low Income Energy Assistance Fund program • Reviewed the recent Youth Tour Interviews held at PIE&G headquarters • Reviewed and revised board policies

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 USD 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.

SIGN UP ONLINE AT PIEGCONNECT.COM

7,387 FIBER AND VOICE SERVICES ACROSS OUR SYSTEM

2,051 MILES

PHASES 1 & 2 ARE 100% COMPLETE PHASE 3 IS 83% COMPLETE Phase 3 Includes: Posen, Grand Lake, Alpena, Hillman, and Avalon

NEXT FEEDER TO OPEN IN THE SPRING OF 2026: AVALON When your zone opens, you will receive an email, phone call, and postcard, and we will announce the opening on Facebook and Instagram.

A CASTLE MADE FOR STORIES:

Castle Farms hosts ‘Antiques Roadshow’

By Emily Haines Lloyd

Three days, thousands of objects—and stories more valuable than the price

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or a few summer days in Charlevoix, Castle Farms became something more than a historic landmark. For three days, its stone walls, manicured grounds, and grand halls were the backdrop for thousands of personal histories as “Antiques Roadshow” rolled into Northern Michigan.

For Castle Farms owner, Linda Mueller, hosting “Antiques Roadshow” was more than a successful event. It was the realization of a long-held dream.

A lifelong collector and steward of history, Mueller kept the show on her bucket list for years, imagining what

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it would mean to see the castle’s halls filled with stories carried in by people from across the region.

When the opportunity finally aligned, it wasn’t just a milestone for the property, but a deeply personal moment for the woman who has spent decades preserving the past and inviting others to connect with it.

THE EMAIL THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING “We had reached out years ago,” said Kristin Frazho, Castle Farms’ general manager. “When we emailed again in 2023, a producer responded within a day. Suddenly, after years of imagining it, it was really happening.”

That response kicked off more than a year of planning. Producers, crew members, and logistics teams walked the property, mapping everything from

parking and power needs to filming locations and crowd flow. The details were extensive, but Castle Farms was uniquely prepared.

With indoor and outdoor spaces, established infrastructure, and a staff accustomed to large-scale weddings and community events, the venue was definitely ready for its close-up.

“When the crew walked away, they told us Castle Farms set a new precedent for the show,” Frazho said. “To hear that during the show’s 30th season, and as their final stop of the year, was incredibly meaningful.”

ORGANIZED CHAOS, PERFECTLY ORCHESTRATED For Director of Guest Experiences Jessica Anderson, the goal was always balance.

“We want events that enhance the community, not overwhelm it,” she said. “‘Antiques Roadshow’ brought people to Charlevoix in a way that felt thoughtful and intentional.”

During filming, roughly 4,500 guests passed through the castle, many arriving with wagons, boxes, and carefully wrapped heirlooms. Guests checked in, followed time slots, boarded trams, and moved through triage stations before meeting appraisers in the main filming areas.

“There was so much excitement,” Anderson said. “Even people who knew their item might not be valuable were grateful to be there, to have someone listen to their story.”

Wes Cowan (left) appraises an 1864 Lincoln & Johnson campaign flag in Charlevoix, Michigan. Photo by Meredith Nierman for GBH, © 2026 WGBH Educational Foundation.

WHERE OBJECTS BECOME STORIES That focus on storytelling over dollar signs mirrors Castle Farms’ own mission. The property’s restoration and vision have been guided by Mueller, whose extensive antique collections are displayed throughout the castle as tools for learning and connection.

“Linda teaches history through objects,” Anderson said. “Each item carries a story, which aligns perfectly with what ‘Antiques Roadshow’ does.”

During filming, that connection came full circle. Mueller recognized several appraisers from past interactions with her own collection, and watching her interviews unfold was a powerful moment for the staff.

“To see Linda glow, to watch her live out a dream she’s worked toward for more than a decade, was overwhelming,” Anderson said.

A PRICELESS APPRAISAL If the experience itself were up for appraisal, both Frazho and Anderson agree its value can’t be measured.

“It’s priceless,” Frazho said. “For the town, for our team, for Linda, and for every guest who walked through the gates carrying a piece of their family’s history.”

Sean Delaney (left) appraises a John Bailey dwarf clock, ca. 1800, in Charlevoix, Michigan. Photo by Rob Thompson for GBH, © 2026 WGBH Educational Foundation.

As the episodes air this spring on PBS, viewers nationwide will see what unfolded at Castle Farms. History was not just appraised. It was shared, celebrated, and brought to life—one story at a time. This fulfilled a long-held dream and the castle’s very purpose.

Tune in to PBS for the Michigan episodes (subject to change) at pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/schedule/.

• Castle Farms, Hour 1 Monday, March 30 at 8 p.m.

• Castle Farms, Hour 2 Monday, April 6 at 8 p.m.

Plan Your Visit Castle Farms is one of Northern Michigan’s most unique destinations. Open seasonally with special events throughout the year, Castle Farms offers something for every age. castlefarms.com 5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI 49720 (231) 237-0884 @castlefarms

• Castle Farms, Hour 3 Monday, April 13 at 8 p.m.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Honoring the Lineworkers Who Serve Our Communities Each April, we pause to recognize the brave men and women who keep the lights on for our members every day, our lineworkers. Their dedication, skill, and commitment ensure power is restored safely and quickly when our communities need it most.

When storms impact our communities and outages occur, many people experience the inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action.

Our crews are always ready when it matters most, leaving family dinners, working through the night, and heading into challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others.

A powerful example was the 2025 Northern Michigan Ice Storm, when heavy ice brought down trees and power lines across Northern Michigan. Crews worked around the clock in freezing temperatures, navigating blocked roads and hazardous conditions to restore service to thousands of members.

It was a demanding restoration effort that required long hours, coordination, and an unwavering focus on safety. Through it all, our lineworkers showed the resilience and

dedication our members have come to rely on.

What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they are not just restoring power to a system; they are restoring power to their own communities.

They live here. They raise their families here. They understand that electricity is more than a convenience.

It is essential to daily life, to local businesses, to schools, farms, and emergency services.

Powering the places we call home is personal to lineworkers.

Electric cooperatives like Presque Isle Electric & Gas were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means extending our service beyond our own service territory through mutual aid. During major outage events, PIE&G crews stand ready to assist neighboring cooperatives, sometimes close to home and sometimes across

state lines, to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve.

We understand that any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are incredibly grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Linework is demanding, physical, and at times dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them.

On April 18, 2026, we will celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our cooperative.

To our lineworkers, thank you for your hard work, your readiness, and your unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. We are proud to stand behind you and grateful for all that you do.

16 APRIL 2026

Work Zone Safety Week:

Slow Down. Stay Alert. Save Lives.

By, Sommer Poquette

Across Michigan, orange cones and flashing lights are a familiar sight this time of year. From road construction crews to electric and utility workers maintaining essential services, work zones are active in every community we serve.

Work Zone Safety Week is an important reminder that those signs and barrels are not just traffic inconveniences. They protect real people. Our neighbors. Our crews.

Your fellow drivers.

The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning reports that in 2024 alone, there were: • 6,731 work zone crashes • 23 fatal work zone crashes • 28 work zone fatalities • 1,636 work zone injuries Most work zone crashes are caused by inattentive or distracted drivers.

Speeding, especially driving too fast for conditions, is one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in work zones. More crashes happen during the daytime than at night, and fatal crashes occur most often between May and September.

In most cases, it is drivers and their passengers who are killed or injured in these crashes.

The highest number of crashes occurs when lanes are closed. The secondand third-highest occur during shoulder or median work and during lane shifts or crossovers. These are exactly the types of conditions our lineworkers and contractors operate in every day while building, restoring, and maintaining the infrastructure that powers your homes and businesses.

What You Can Do Slow down. Work zones require lower speeds for a reason. Reduced reaction time and changing traffic patterns demand extra caution.

Pay attention. Put the distractions away. Mobile devices, in-vehicle screens, and multitasking behind the wheel dramatically increase crash risk.

At PIE&G, safety is not just a policy.

It is a responsibility we take seriously for our employees and our members.

Every crew member working in a roadside environment has a family waiting for them at home. Every driver passing through a work zone has one, too.

Move over. When you see flashing lights from utility vehicles, road crews, or emergency responders, give them space whenever possible.

April 20–24, 2026, is Work Zone Safety Week. We are asking our members and community to commit to one simple thing: Slow down and stay alert. A few extra seconds of patience can prevent a lifetime of regret.

Expect changes. Lanes may narrow, shift, or close entirely. Be prepared for sudden stops.

Connected. Trusted. Reliable.

And committed to keeping our communities safe.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Guest Column

A North Woods Matriarch

By Janet Horricks, a HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative member

My great-grandmother and greatgrandfather, Leatha and Charles Malinowski, lived in Sigma, Michigan, a small abandoned logging town near Kalkaska, in a small cottage across from the old, abandoned Sigma Hotel.

Their cozy home featured a massive stone fireplace that was the heart of the house. Hanging above the mantle was an enormous muskie that weighed over 57 pounds and measured five feet long. This remarkable fish was speared by my great-grandmother while ice fishing on Torch Lake.

I regret that I do not have a photograph of the muskie, but I have a picture of my grandmother with another impressive catch of the day.

She was also featured in the local Kalkaska newspaper, highlighting my grandparents’ ice fishing expertise.

My grandparents were true Michigan outdoors enthusiasts who lived off the land. No matter the season,

they were outside—fishing and ice fishing on the many local lakes and streams. They made full use of Michigan’s beautiful forests by deer and rabbit hunting, or simply by walking the woods to gather berries for my grandmother’s jams and jellies, mushrooms, and other natural resources they relied on in their daily lives.

Most of my treasured memories are of my greatgrandmother, as my great-grandfather passed away when I was young. She was an incredible woman and a true figure of “up north” Michigan history.

To supplement their income, my grandmother sold her jams and jellies, which became favorites throughout both Michigan peninsulas. Her many talents were celebrated at local fairs, where she earned recognition for her jams and jellies, baked goods, and most memorably, her Fairy Forests.

She created mini forests made from fungus that grew on the sides of trees, which she gathered during walks through local woods. These were lined with moss from the forest floor and filled with

“My grandparents were true Michigan outdoors enthusiasts who lived off the land. No matter the season, they were outside—fishing and ice fishing on the many local lakes and streams.”

tiny ceramic animals, miniature trees, and mirrored lakes.

I am incredibly fortunate to carry these people in my memories, and I am deeply proud that they were such a meaningful part of Michigan’s outdoor heritage.

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

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18 APRIL 2026

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Lineworker Appreciation Day April 18, 2026 “We are proud of the people who work to keep our power system ready and return power when storms cause damage.”

Peg H.