February 2025 HomeWorks

HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative

February 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

MIDWEST GRIT Kyle Ostwald’s ‘Survivor’ Journey

Pat Simmer Retires After 27 Years Of Service Co-op Awards $22,000 In Classroom Grants Apply For A $2,500 College Scholarship By March 14!

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT

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Not hearing is believing.

WaterFurnace doesn’t think you should hear your furnace and A/C more than you feel its heat and air.

You know when a traditional HVAC system is on. Stop and listen. Is the burner turning on? Are the blower and fan running? Is air blasting through your vents? With geothermal, those tell-tale signs are eliminated, because sound from the system is barely noticeable.

As a result, you get comfortable, consistent heating and cooling—and none of the noise.

With WaterFurnace, silence is golden.

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 STAR rated units qualify for 30% through 2030 and 26% through 2032 and 22% through 2033 .

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

February 2025 Vol. 45, No. 2 /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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6 ADVENTURES THROUGH

MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

See details on page 10. Mushrooms, due March 1; Summer Desserts, due April 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

GUEST COLUMN

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

AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY AT GILMORE CAR MUSEUM The largest auto museum in North America brings together history, artistry, and nostalgia.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Sauces & Marinades: The essentials for culinary creativity.

14 MIDWEST GRIT: KYLE

OSTWALD’S ‘SURVIVOR’ JOURNEY Cheboygan man draws upon his roots of resilience and resourcefulness to make his mark on reality TV.

18 GUEST COLUMN

A Homeworks member’s final opening day with his father was about much more than hunting.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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By The Members, For The Members:

What It Means To Be Part Of A Co-op

By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO OSCEOLA

CLARE

MECOSTA ISABELLA

MONTCALM GRATIOT

IONIA

BARRY

SAGINAW

CLINTON

EATON

INGHAM

JACKSON

Portland office/Mail payments to: 7973 E. Grand River Ave. Portland, MI 48875 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.

Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232 Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875 Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls) Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740 HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413 BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org District 2 — Jim Stebbins 7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 517-930-8132 • jstebbins@homeworks.org District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org District 6 — Dave Livermore 8060 W. Airline Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-289-3019 • dlivermore@homeworks.org District 7 — Shirley Sprague, Secretary-Treasurer 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC cmarkwart@homeworks.org

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Have you ever thought about what it really means to be a part of an electric cooperative like HomeWorks Tri-County Electric?

Because we’re a notfor-profit Co-op, we operate according to a unique member-driven business model, which, in essence, means we exist solely to serve you. This month, I’m proud to highlight for you several of the distinct benefits of being a Co-op member.

First off, HomeWorks’ decisions are made locally, by directors who are chosen by you and who all live right here in our community.

Everyone who pays to receive electricity from HomeWorks is a member and owner of the Cooperative. When you pay your electric bill each month, your money stays here—to maintain our system and provide you with superior service and reliability.

As a HomeWorks member myself, I find it so reassuring to know that the money we pay the Co-op doesn’t line the pockets of shareholders five states away.

You may notice that throughout the year, we schedule several opportunities for you to attend Co-op events, like our virtual district meetings coming up in May, so we can hear from you. We also offer our in-person Annual Meeting of Delegates in August and our HomeWorks Park Parties, which will take place throughout the summer this year. To gather even more feedback from you, we conduct a member survey every few years so that we can plan and adjust for the future based on your needs. And, of course, every HomeWorks member has the opportunity to make their voice heard in their director election every three years, which members in districts 1, 5, and 7 will take part in this spring.

homeworks.org

As a Co-op, our success lies in your engagement and satisfaction. When you provide us with insightful feedback on services that we could improve for you, we pride ourselves on investing in purposeful solutions based on the needs of our members, instead of our bottom line. A prime example is our HomeWorks Connect fiber internet network, which was built to fulfill a need for reliable broadband access amongst our rural members who felt they had been left behind by larger investorowned providers.

Because you’re part of an electric cooperative, you can rely on our team to always be looking out for you. You can also depend on us to maintain local jobs, at-cost electricity, and first-class service and reliability that you can count on, no matter what.

As a HomeWorks member, you share fairly in our costs and also in any margins that we earn, which are eventually returned to you as capital credits. Of course, we face inflationary pressures like any other business, but we are continually striving to keep our costs affordable so we can keep more money in your pocket. We also want to help you maximize the value you can get from our services and offerings. For example, we can help you save on energy bills through the free energy audit program and efficiency rebates offered through our Energy Optimization program.

Please know that you—the members of HomeWorks—are at the heart of everything we do. We are here to serve you and provide the safe, reliable, friendly service you expect and deserve. While we’ve grown over the years, we’re still driven by the same guiding principles to serve our community. We hope to see or hear from you soon. This Co-op was created for you, the members. Here at HomeWorks, the power truly is in your hands.

/homeworks.org

tricoenergy@homeworks.org

Loving Your HomeWorks Connect Internet?

You Could Earn a FREE MONTH*!

REFER YOUR NEIGHBOR TO SIGN UP FOR HOMEWORKS CONNECT

AND WE’LL CREDIT YOU BOTH $65!

We’re looking to expand our network, and we’re asking our members to help! If you’re happy with HomeWorks Connect’s high-speed fiber internet service at your home or business, share your happiness with your neighbors.

Here’s how it works: 1) Have your friend or neighbor mention your name when they sign up for HomeWorks Connect’s internet service at Join.HomeWorksConnect.org or by calling 800-668-8413.

2) You and your friend will both receive a free month of our Essential Experience package—or a $65 bill credit if you’re subscribed to a higher level of service—once their service is installed.

There’s no limit to how many referrals you can make! If you sign up 12 friends in 2025, you could have FREE INTERNET at the Essential Experience level for a whole year! So, tell those that you know—HomeWorks Connect is the way to go! *You and your friend will receive a $65 bill credit on your next bill, which will pay for one month of service on the Essential Experience plan, or will go toward your total bill if you subscribe to a higher level of service.

Help Your Neighbors Become Connectors Today!

Have them visit Join.HomeWorksConnect.org or call 800-668-8413 and be sure they mention your name!

This service is not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

Adventures Through Automotive History at Gilmore Car Museum Not only a haven for auto enthusiasts, Gilmore Car Museum offers a glimpse into the past. It’s an immersive experience and voyage through American automotive culture. It’s also a place where history, artistry, and nostalgia come together in a remarkable setting, tucked away in the countryside of Hickory Corners, Michigan.

Spanning over 90 landscaped acres, Gilmore Car Museum encompasses nearly 200,000 square feet of exhibit space, a sprawling historic campus housing over 400 vehicles, a dozen buildings, and several life-size reenactments.

The museum started as a hobby in the 1960s for its founder, Kalamazoo businessman Donald S. Gilmore. Today, it is a living testament to the innovation and evolution of the automotive industry, welcoming more than 112,000 visitors annually and drawing guests from all over the world. Gilmore Car Museum is considered the largest auto museum in North America.

The Beginnings of Gilmore Car Museum Donald S. Gilmore journeyed into the world of collecting vintage cars in 1963 with the purchase of a 1920 Pierce-Arrow. This ignited his passion for classic cars and paved the way for Gilmore Car Museum to be the significant landmark it is today. Gilmore bought an abandoned 19th-century farm property to hold his ever-growing car collection. He refurbished eight historic barns to create a blend of rustic charm that paired with the twinkle of polished chrome. With 35 cars on display, the Gilmore Car Museum opened its doors on July 31, 1966, as a nonprofit educational institution dedicated to preserving the heritage of automobiles in America.

Vehicles Across the Ages Gilmore Car Museum showcases a stunning lineup of historic machines and specialty exhibits, from horseless carriages to sleek modern roadsters. Motorcycles, bicycles, hood ornaments, and other symbolic artifacts all trace the progression of automobile design and engineering.

Vehicles from all eras are on display, from luxurious Duesenbergs to iconic DeLoreans. The museum’s oldest exhibit is an 1899 Locomobile Steam Car. Classic car enthusiasts appreciate early 20th-century models from brands like Cadillac, PierceArrow, and Packard, while fans of American muscle cars are thrilled by the Chevelles, Mustangs, and Corvettes. Sophisticated European names, like Aston Martin and RollsRoyce, represent global automakers.

Reimagined Spaces One of the most fascinating aspects of Gilmore Car Museum is its commitment to recreating the atmosphere of automotive history. It offers inviting spaces immersed in decades gone by. Transport back in time at the museum’s restored 1890s

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train depot. Dine in a different era at George & Sally’s Blue Moon Diner, an authentic and fully operational 1941 diner serving classic American fare.

Imagine fueling up during the Great Depression at the 1930s Shell gas station, complete with original gas pumps and signage. Visit four unique auto dealerships (listed below), each designed to reflect a distinct period.

Every detail has been meticulously crafted, from tiled floors to neon lights, to evoke the essence of car shopping in mid-century America.

• • • •

The 1918-era Franklin dealership The 1928 Model A Ford dealership The 1930 Lincoln dealership The 1948 Cadillac dealership

Automobiles in Motion The Museum’s Checker Cab and London Double Decker bus can often be seen traveling along the paved roadways around campus.

Chauffeured vintage rides are free with your admission during summer and special events like Winter Wonderland.

Experience time travel and enjoy a thrilling three-mile ride behind the wheel of a 100-year-old Model T Ford.

Secure your seat in a hands-on driving class for the opportunity to take a “Tin Lizzie” for a spin alongside an experienced instructor.

The museum is a must-see pit stop in southwest Michigan, situated midway between Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, and Grand Rapids at 6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, MI 49060

Museum Visits The Gilmore Car Museum is open yearround, though the outer buildings are closed during winter months. Refuel at two on-site restaurants: Pedal Car Cafe is open daily, and Blue Moon Diner is open from March through November.

gilmorecarmuseum.org /GilmoreCarMuseum /gilmorecarmuseum @gilmorecarmuseum7323 Scan the QR code to watch a video of our visit and vintage ride at Winter Wonderland.

Cassondra Scott is a content creator, writer, and social media influencer at Cassondra Wanders— sharing small businesses and sights to see all over the state of Michigan. /cassondrawanders

/cassondra.wanders

@cassondrawanders

@cassondrawanders

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Get Savings, Safety, And More With An Induction Stove While induction and electric stoves may look similar, they’re actually drastically different—and that’s a good thing! The unique way in which induction stoves cook and heat your food makes them better for your home’s safety, your energy bill, and even the consistency and speed of your home cooking.

to its electric or gas counterparts, an induction stove can boil water 20-40% faster because it heats your pan without producing any unnecessary heat. That targeted, efficient heat production also means more affordable home cooking can be done with an induction stove. And your energy bill should show it!

What sets induction stoves apart?

Not only can you save money— they’re safer, too!

Compared to traditional stoves, which warm food by radiating heat to your pots and pans via a flame or electric burner, an induction stove uses electromagnetic fields to generate heat to only your pot or pan. The heat is transferred directly to the pot— nowhere else. With this, the process of heating a pot or pan requires less energy, and cooking becomes more efficient than with the electric or gas burners you might be used to.

How does this efficiency benefit you?

When comparing an induction stove

Savings are great, but another thing induction stovetops provide is safety.

Because cookware is heated directly, the cooking surface does not get as hot as other cooktops, reducing the risk of burns. And, since a pot or pan is required for an induction stovetop to function, you don’t have to worry about leaving a burner on!

Another less obvious safety feature of induction stoves is the lack of natural gas. Gas stoves have always been highlighted as reliable sources of heat,

but the health risks can outweigh that benefit due to indoor air pollution, which has been found to contribute to things such as childhood asthma.

Using an induction stove keeps that reliable, powerful cooking, but without any danger to your home’s air quality!

Apply for Energy Optimization rebates from HomeWorks!

Ready to make the switch to an induction stove? HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Co-op members can qualify for a $500 Energy Optimization program rebate when they upgrade to an eligible induction range, stove, or cooktop with at least three burners. Visit homeworks.org/eo or give us a call at 877-296-4319 to learn more about all of our savings offers.

Savings & Safety Make the Switch to an Induction Stove in Your Home

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homeworks.org/eo • 877-296-4319 HomeWorks Energy Optimization programs and rebates are applicable to HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative electric service locations only. Rebate applies to qualified items purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025. Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit homeworks.org/eo.

$500 Rebate Available from the Energy Optimization Program

Tri-County Electric Cooperative

MI CO-OP Snap Shot

MUSICAL MOMENTS MOST VOTES

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1. M OST VOTES Confetti Kingdom-Unity Fest. Patty Esch, Remus 2. Helping hands. Paul and Susan Brookman, St. Johns 3. M y husband Don looking at vintage horns with our longtime band director and friend Claude Lemmer. Don and I became friends by playing in band in junior high! Claude and Don both play trumpet in the Central Michigan Area Concert Band now! Vicki Larm-Decker, Shepherd 4. A fter 19 Kenny Chesney concerts, the 20th show was from the Sandbar. Dream come true for this fan!

Mandie Hoppes, Portland 5. M ariachi band playing on the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, June 2024. Casie Bayless, Portland

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Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Nighttime Narratives” Photos By Feb. 25! Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. Share your best photo for our February theme, Nighttime Narratives, and encourage friends to vote. The photo with the most votes will be featured in Country Lines, along with other favorites, in the April issue.

Submit by Feb. 25!

To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/photocontest.

Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2025, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2025 HomeWorks bill!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

SAUCES & MARINADES The Essentials for Culinary Creativity.

WINNING RECIPE!

MOM’S CHOCOLATE FUDGE SAUCE

Beth Pipe, Great Lakes Energy ½ cup cocoa 1 cup sugar ¹⁄8 teaspoon salt ½ cup water 1½ teaspoon vanilla Place cocoa and sugar in pan.

Remove lumps, add salt and water, and bring to a boil. Turn to medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Cool, then add vanilla. Serve warm over ice cream.

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Mushrooms, due March 1; Summer Desserts, due April 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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GREAT VERSATILE MARINADE FOR GRILLING Mary and Dan Card, Great Lakes Energy ³⁄4 cup vegetable oil ¼ cup soy sauce 3 tablespoons wine vinegar (white or red) 3 green onions, sliced thinly 2 teaspoons ground ginger 2 cloves garlic, chopped 3 tablespoons honey Combine ingredients in a large screw-top jar.

Place what you want to marinate (chicken, pork, tenderloin, shish kabob, beef, swordfish, shrimp) in a deep glass 13x9-inch pan. Pour marinade over top and cover with plastic wrap. Chill several hours or overnight, turning meat or fish once or twice. Drain and discard marinade. Grill the meat or fish until done.

JUICY JERK MARINADE Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup soy sauce 3 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper Put all ingredients into a mason jar. Cover and shake well. Use immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 4 days before use. Works great on chicken, but it’s also tasty on any other meat or fish.

EASY THAI-PEANUT SAUCE Phil Ehardt, Great Lake Energy 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk, light or regular 3–4 tablespoons red curry paste 1 cup natural unsweetened creamy peanut butter 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce ¼ cup sugar or honey 2 tablespoons white vinegar or rice vinegar ½ cup water ½ teaspoon sesame oil Whisk together all the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring often so it doesn’t scorch, for 2–3 minutes.

Let the sauce cool slightly. Transfer it to a container or jar, cover, and keep in the refrigerator for up to several weeks before using.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

On To The Next Adventure:

Pat Simmer Retires After 27 Years Of Dedicated Service HomeWorks bid a fond farewell to a beloved longtime leader of the Cooperative on Jan. 16, when Pat Simmer retired after over 27 years of dedicated service. A highly skilled and experienced accountant, Simmer served as the Co-op’s chief financial officer from 2014 to 2024. In 2021, he took on the added role of chief operations officer, overseeing several of HomeWorks’ key departments and helping to spearhead numerous important projects, including the expansion of the HomeWorks Connect fiber internet network. Prior to 2014, he served in various roles in the accounting department.

“Pat will be greatly missed at HomeWorks,” says President/ CEO Chris O’Neill. “For his entire career, he has been a model of hard work, loyalty, and member/employee services.

Working alongside him for the past two decades has taught me how to properly analyze a business decision and how to cope when things don’t go as planned. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch him lead the fine men and women of this Co-op for so long.”

For as much as he has given to the Co-op, Simmer says he has received more in return.

“The Cooperative world is a very special place to work, and I am grateful that I had the opportunity to work at HomeWorks for so many years,” says Simmer. “I am proud to have been a part of such a great team that worked so hard to serve our members and make their lives better.

I’m looking forward to enjoying the next chapter in my life, but I will miss the special people I had the chance to work with and meet along the way here at the Co-op.”

In his retirement, Simmer is excited to travel and spend more time with his wife, Sharon, and their children and grandchildren.

Manting, McCliggott Take On Expanded Roles At Co-op 2025 is still young, but the year has already seen several impactful developments within the HomeWorks executive team. In addition to the January retirement of longtime CFO Pat Simmer, Chief Information Officer Tom Manting has taken on the additional role of chief operations officer, while Employee and Member Engagement Manager Angel McCliggott has been promoted to chief relationship officer, both effective Jan. 3.

In his expanded role, Manting will continue to lead the Co-op’s IT team, while also overseeing the electric, fiber, and propane operations departments.

One of HomeWorks’ longest-tenured employees, Manting has served the Co-op for 35 years, working in almost every department along the way.

“Tom is extremely versatile in his knowledge and skill, and he has long been one of the drivers behind many of the Co-op’s key initiatives,” says President/CEO Chris O’Neill. “He knows so much about where we come from and where we’re going, and he is a proven

12 FEBRUARY 2025

leader. It was a natural fit for Tom to take on the additional role of COO upon Pat Simmer’s retirement. I am very excited to see all the things he will do in this expanded leadership role.”

Prior to her promotion to CRO, McCliggott had served as the Co-op’s employee and member engagement manager since 2021. As a certified human resources professional, she has also led the Co-op’s HR team since 2017. She originally joined the HomeWorks workforce in 2012 as a customer service representative.

“Angel is passionate about serving our employees and members in the very best way possible, and she is not afraid to make the tough decisions that are required of a true leader,” says O’Neill.

“In her expanded role, she will retain her multi-departmental responsibilities, which include HR, safety, marketing, communications, business development, and more. Her new executive title is reflective of the important role Angel and her team hold within the Co-op.”

Your Board In Action Meeting in Portland on Dec. 16, 2024, your board of directors: • Reviewed a presentation by President/CEO Chris O’Neill summarizing the HomeWorks team’s key accomplishments from 2024 and major objectives for 2025.

• Elected Director Shirley Sprague as the Co-op’s voting delegate for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s regional and annual meetings in 2025.

• Authorized the renewal of the HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative general liability and cybersecurity liability policy for 2025 through Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange.

• Received a monthly progress update on the HomeWorks Connect fiber internet business.

• Authorized the renewal of the TriCounty Propane general liability insurance policy for 2025 through General Agency.

• Discussed and accepted Board Policy 315: Records Management, as revised.

• Acknowledged the November safety report, listing employee training as well as minor employee and public incidents involving electric, propane, or fiber optic.

• Acknowledged the November physical and cybersecurity report, noting that there were no security breaches or incidents to report for the month.

• Learned there were 91 new members in November.

Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on Feb. 24 and March 24 at Portland.

Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.

People Fund Helps Local Organizations Fulfill Critical Needs For Families In Our Service Area Meeting remotely on Dec. 20, 2024, our People Fund board made seven grants totaling $11,955, including: • $3,000 to Portland Backpacks for Bellies, to purchase food for weekend meals for students in need; • $2,500 to TrueNorth Community Services in Fremont, to support their programs providing resources and opportunities to help community members in need become self-sufficient; • $2,000 to the M-46 Tabernacle in Riverdale, to purchase items for the food pantry;

• $2,000 to the Elsie Area Food Pantry, to purchase food for the pantry; • $1,200 to the Gratiot County Child Advocacy Association, to purchase items for the baby pantry; • $1,005 to the Mecosta County Senior Center, to help cover transportation costs; and • $250 to Stockbridge Community Outreach, to support the start-up of a recipe-of-the-month club for community members.

How to Apply for a Tri-County Electric People Fund Grant The Tri-County Electric People Fund provides grants to individuals and organizations in the Coop’s service area for food, shelter, clothing, health, and other humane needs, or for programs or services that benefit a significant segment of a community.

Write to 7973 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875 for an application form and grant guidelines, or visit the People Fund page at HomeWorks.org.

Note: Applications must be received

by Feb. 25 for the March meeting or

by April 8 for the April meeting.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

MIDWEST GRIT

I

n the quaint town of Cheboygan, Michigan, nestled in the heart of the state’s rural landscape, Kyle Ostwald grew up surrounded by hardworking people who used their resourcefulness to create lives for themselves.

This Midwestern upbringing shaped the man who would go on to place 8th in the most recent season of “Survivor”— a CBS competitive reality television series. The show drops 18 strangers on the remote Mamanuca Islands in Fiji to fend for themselves for 26 days and strategically outlast the other contestants by forming alliances and winning immunity challenges. Known for his resilience, integrity, and scrappy determination, Kyle brought a unique perspective to the island—one born from his roots in northern Michigan.

A Leap of Faith for Family When asked why he applied to the 47th season of “Survivor,” Kyle’s answer was simple: family. “It was about creating a better future for the people I care about,” he explained.

The title of “Sole Survivor” comes with more than bragging rights; it offers a life-changing million-dollar reward. He hoped the prize money would provide financial relief, allowing him to spend less time working and more time with

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Kyle Ostwald’s ‘Survivor’ Journey

By Emily Haines Lloyd

his loved ones. “It’s a gamble,” he admitted, “but one worth taking for the chance to promote my family’s well-being.”

However, the decision wasn’t without sacrifices. His partner, Shania, stepped up to care for their young daughter, while pregnant with their second child, and keep things moving while he was away. “She was playing her own version of ‘Survivor’ back home,” said Kyle. “She’s the best teammate I had while on the show.”

A Midwestern Mindset Growing up in rural Michigan taught Kyle valuable lessons in resourcefulness and humility—skills that proved essential on the island.

“Where I’m from, people work hard for what little they have,” he said. “You learn to appreciate the basics and value what others take for granted.”

This mindset translated well into the game. Whether opening coconuts or making life on the island more comfortable, Kyle’s ability to “cut his own coconut” resonated with his tribemates and viewers. “Being

resourceful isn’t just about surviving,” he noted. “It’s about bringing others together and making life more comfortable.”

Resilience in the Face of Adversity Kyle’s resilience—shaped by personal challenges long before the island—was a cornerstone of his gameplay. “Life has a way of knocking you off your feet, but I’ve learned to refuse to stay down,” he said.

Whether enduring hunger, exhaustion, or the paranoia of the game, he drew strength from his ability to persevere. “Even when it felt like the universe was against me, I told myself, ‘Not today,’” he said.

Coming Home While Kyle didn’t win the title of “Sole Survivor,” his experience on the show has already integrated into his life back home. The game taught him he’s stronger than he thought—something Kyle says he’ll carry with him forever.

He also gained a new appreciation for vulnerability. “It’s okay to share the weight of life,” he said. “We’re not meant to carry it alone.” This lesson, he believes, is as important off the island as it was during the game.

Kyle offers simple but powerful advice for those facing their own struggles: “Play the game like you’ll lose. Whether it’s ‘Survivor’ or life, we only have one shot.”

“Play the game like you’ll lose.

Whether it’s ‘Survivor’ or life, we only have one shot.”

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Co-op Awards $22,000 In S.T.E.A.M. Grants To Local Classrooms One of the Seven Cooperative Principles that guide our day-to-day operations is Cooperative Principle #7: Concern For Community. Here at HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative, one of the ways in which we wholeheartedly embrace that principle is our annual Touchstone Energy Classroom S.T.E.A.M. Classroom Grant program. As a Touchstone Energy cooperative, we receive funding each year that is specifically intended to support projects that enhance our local communities.

We can think of no better way to help enhance the areas in our service territory than by investing in our youth, the future leaders of our communities. Each year, our S.T.E.A.M. grants provide funding for several innovative projects to help local students take interest and excel in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. This month, we are proud to announce the winners of our 2024/25 Touchstone Energy Classroom S.T.E.A.M. Classroom Grants!

• $2,000 to support a middle school eSports club - Portland St. Patrick School • $2,000 for robotics equipment - St. Peter’s Lutheran School, Bellevue • $2,000 to support a new drone class - Chippewa Hills High School • $2,000 for equipment for a middle school news broadcast - Big Rapids Middle School • $2,000 for a smartboard to accommodate student learning - Shepherd High School • $2,000 for S.T.E.A.M. workstations for students - Fuller Street Elementary, Nashville • $1,970 for computer lab chairs - Maple Valley Public Schools • $1,970 to support a Methods of Movement S.T.E.A.M. program - Ithaca Public Schools • $1,960 for color printers for digital art projects - Morey FlexTech, Shepherd • $1,540 for equipment for a new coding program - St. Joseph Catholic School, Pewamo • $1,200 for S.T.E.A.M. reading material for library - Weidman Elementary School • $1,060 for 36″ paper for student art projects - Maple Valley Public Schools • $330 for equipment for student S.T.E.A.M. bins - Fuller Street Elementary, Nashville If you would like to learn more about our classroom grant program or the other ways in which your Co-op supports our local communities, visit HomeWorks.org/community.

16 FEBRUARY 2025

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MI CO-OP Guest Column

One Last Hunt Bob Smith, a HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative member

Do you have one particular day each year you look forward to more than any other?

New Year’s, your birthday, Christmas?

The one day I look forward to the most is Nov. 15, an unofficial Michigan holiday and an official Smith Holiday—the opening day of the Michigan firearm deer season.

For the past 50 years, I have spent the opening day of deer season in the woods with Smith family members.

This great family tradition dates back to the late 1930s, when the Smith Deer Camp was established in northern Michigan. My dad and I counted over 75 people who had attended our deer camp at least once. Many have long since passed and are now only memories, but on Nov. 15, their spirit comes alive.

Nov. 15, 2003, is a day I will never forget. Even though my dad and I had hunted together for about 35 years, we had never shared a hunting shed. With my dad’s age and health going in opposite directions, we decided to share a shed for what I thought might be his one last hunt.

We arrived in the shed well before daylight and sat quietly, just taking it all in. Waiting for daylight was a great time to think about our traditions, memories of prior hunts, and the lessons Dad had taught me over the years. On a sadder note, I thought about what the future might bring as I contemplated how I would forge ahead without him if this were his one last hunt.

We saw several deer before 9 a.m., but none we felt we wanted to take. Then suddenly, the largest buck we had ever seen popped out of the woods close to our shed. I was the only one in a position to take the shot and quickly ran through the lessons I had learned from Dad: Take one look at the antlers and decide if you are going to shoot, then try your best to ignore them, be sure you have a clear and safe shot, slow your breathing, rest the gun on a solid surface if possible, and then finally squeeze the trigger.

As if a greater spirit were with us, all his lessons came into play perfectly, and we had that monster buck. He really did not say anything, but I could tell he was proud and happy.

He understood the Smith hunting tradition would go on, and his memory and legacy would continue as long as I could breathe the cool, clear November air.

18 FEBRUARY 2025

“Waiting for daylight was a great time to think about our traditions, memories of prior hunts, and the lessons Dad had taught me over the years.”

Another tradition was to stop at the local cemetery on the way home and show my mom the year’s harvest. She had passed away almost 20 years earlier. Now, I have two reasons to stop at the cemetery. I continue to hunt with his spirit, helping inspire and guide me thoroughly, knowing any hunt could be my one last hunt.

The purpose of my story is not to turn you into a hunter, but rather to encourage you to create some family traditions and memories.

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