February 2025 PIE&G

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

February 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

MIDWEST GRIT Kyle Ostwald’s ‘Survivor’ Journey

Free Energy Consultations PIE&G Connect Update Operation Round-Up

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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We Love Serving Our Members

By Allan Berg, President & CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

February may be the shortest month, but it’s packed with special observances, with one being Valentine’s Day and additionally a host of unofficial “national” days you’ve probably never heard of, like “National Tater Tot Day.” But they all have something in common: They were created to draw attention to a particular issue or theme.

Sandy Borowicz, Chairperson 5341 Carlson Rd., Cheboygan, MI 49721 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2027 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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Valentine’s Day may seem like an observance created by a greeting card company. Still, over time, it’s become a widely celebrated day. Valentine’s Day isn’t just for your special someone; it’s also the perfect time to let our friends, family, co-workers, and other special people know we care about them—with or without a store-bought greeting card.

In that spirit, here are the top reasons why we love serving you, the members of PIE&G. 1. We love serving our members because the co-op wouldn’t exist without you.

We aim to provide reliable, responsible, and safe electricity and natural gas to power and heat your homes and businesses. Now, we offer high-speed PIE&G Connect fiber internet and voice service, connecting you to the world at a reasonable cost. Simply put, PIE&G exists to serve you, and that’s why we were formed in 1937—to bring power and natural gas to our local area when for-profit utilities would not.

2. Your support enables us to fulfill our mission of giving back. A significant part of our efforts is serving our community and looking after the greater good. With your help rounding up your utility bills for the Community First Fund, we can assist organizations like food banks, public safety services, schools, and more.

If you haven’t enrolled yet, visit pieg.com to learn more!

3. Members of our co-op also serve on the board of directors. They provide guidance for setting co-op priorities and helping make big decisions. Because our board members live in the area, they can serve as the pulse of the larger community and identify immediate and long-term needs. The broader co-op membership provides helpful input through their vote on director elections and by weighing in on co-op and community issues.

4. You help us get it right! PIE&G members are proactive about keeping us informed. While we do our best to avoid power outages, Mother Nature can occasionally throw us a curveball; our members quickly report any power disruptions and are patient as our crews work to restore power safely. We know outages are frustrating, and your support as we work through storms means so much to our employees.

As a co-op, our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our community and look after its long-term interests. We love serving our members and local community, and just like you, we want to see it thrive!

pieg.com

/PIEGCooperative

/PIEGCooperative

Your Board In Action At its most recent meeting, the PIE&G Board of Directors…

• Approved the Hillman Community Center for the 2025 Annual Meeting location, to be held on Oct. 24, 2025.

• Approved the 2025 operating plan, work plan, and capital budget.

• Set the Member Regulation meeting date to Feb. 25, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.

• Approved the participation in the CoBank Sharing Success matching grant program for 2025.

• Accepted Team Reports.

Notice to Members of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op Special Member Regulation Meeting Set for Feb. 25, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the cooperative’s Onaway office.

The board of directors will consider changes to the cooperative’s rates and tariffs at its special meeting on Feb. 25, 2025, at 3149 Main Street, Onaway, Michigan. The meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. and is open to all Presque Isle Electric and Gas Co-op members.

The session will begin with an opportunity for members to provide direct input to the board of directors. Members are asked to call the cooperative one week before the meeting if they wish to attend. Time constraints on each member’s comments will be at the discretion of the board chairman, but members are asked to keep comments to less than five minutes.

The following will be discussed: 1. Reconciliation of the 2024 Power Supply Cost Recovery collections.

2. Consideration of adjustments to Electric Rates.

Notice of changes or additions to the cooperative’s rates or service rules shall be sent to all members, as required by P.A. 167, by first-class mail or by publication in the Michigan Country Lines at least 30 days before their effective date.

Participation: Any interested member may attend, and to participate, should contact Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op at 800-423-6634 a week in advance. Comments may also be made before the meeting date by calling CEO Allan Berg at 800-423-6634 or by email at aberg@pieg.com

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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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.

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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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Start Saving with a FREE Energy Consultation for Your Home, Business, or Farm Looking for ways to become more energy-savvy during the energyheavy winter months? Look no further! As a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member, you can take advantage of a large array of energy efficiency rebates through our Energy Optimization program.

Not sure where to get started? PIE&G offers a FREE energy consultation for your home, business, or farm that allows you to get an overall snapshot of how you are using your energy, as well as areas where you might be able to save energy or use energy more efficiently.

How Does It Work?

For homeowners, one of our Energy Advisors will visit your home and assess areas of improvement, talk about some of your energy-related concerns, and help you better

understand your energy usage. Then, after the consultation, you will receive a report with follow-up information and recommended improvements to help you start saving (many of which are rebate-eligible). As a bonus, our Energy Advisor can even provide or install energy-saving products for you! To get started, give us a call at (877) 296-4319 or send us an email at info@michigan-energy.org.

Energy Optimization program to help continue your savings journey. Those programs include:

The process is very similar for business or farm owners—simply get in touch with us using the same contact information above and ask for a referral to an Energy Advisor to perform an Energy Efficiency Consultation.

• Rebates for Agriculture & Farm or Commercial & Industrial businesses

What Are Next Steps?

After receiving your recommendations from our Energy Advisor, we welcome you to take part in other parts of our

• Rebates for energy-efficient home appliances • Appliance recycling (available April–October) • Rebates for energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment for your home

… and more!

For a complete list of rebates and resources available through the Energy Optimization program, visit pieg.com/eo or call (877) 296-4319.

Schedule a FREE Energy Consultation for Your Home, Business, or Farm A PIE&G Energy Advisor will visit you to perform an assessment, discuss concerns, help you understand utility costs, and identify areas of improvement. info@michigan-energy.org • (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 qualified 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

MUSICAL MOMENTS MOST VOTES

1. MOST VOTES Travis Clark, lead singer of We the Kings, at a concert we went to in Pontiac, Michigan, in 2016. Donald Wilton II 2. Granddaughter (Mrs. Potts) and her father at Beauty and the Beast play. Nancy Borowski

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3. Winter chill. Michelle Regelbrugge 4. Jammin’ with the fam. Shanna Gunter 5. Musical clown. Amie Schoolcraft 6. Cheng² Duo at the Cheboygan Opera House. Kara D’Andrea 7. Tuba Christmas at the Capitol.

Charles Culton 8. Old and young. Trisha Taylor

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9. Madame Tussauds, Nashville.

Meghan Marsh 10. Sunset guitar with my dad at Sturgeon Bay. Heather Notter

Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Nighttime Narratives” Photos by Feb. 25!

Share your best photo for our February theme, “Nighttime Narratives,” and encourage friends to vote on Facebook! 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 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

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

Your Top Billing Questions, Answered Simply

“Why Is A Service Charge Included On My Bill?“ Presque Isle Electric & Gas has listed an availability charge (service charge) on your electric and gas bills for years.

Often, people ask why they have to pay an availability charge when they received no service. Our answer to that is simple: This charge represents the cost to always have electric and

“What is My Monthly Bill Frequency?”

Please be advised that all electric bills are now at a monthly billing frequency. If you were previously at an annual billing frequency, you received your final annual bill this summer. All current and future electric bills will be generated and mailed monthly.

Payment is also due monthly.

At the March 28, 2023, board meeting, the board of directors revised the Electric Tariffs to accommodate for this transition of all accounts from an annual to monthly billing

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gas distribution services available to you, even if you are not using electricity or gas.

The cooperative incurs numerous costs to maintain our distribution systems that are not related to the consumption of energy. Some of these costs include taxes, depreciation, and insurance on the equipment in the field, plus the maintenance of our lines and substations that supply your

frequency. The language in the tariff reads, “All Member-Consumers taking service under Schedule S may, at the Cooperative’s discretion and upon a 45-day notice, be billed once per month for the monthly availability and energy charges if the Cooperative is able to obtain a meter reading though it’s AMI system. If readings are not obtainable through the AMI system, at the Cooperative’s discretion, the account may be billed annually.”

Over the last few years, we have been implementing our Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI) for our electric meters. The AMI system has made it possible to align all our accounts

service. The cost to maintain poles, wires (overhead and underground), and/or transformers that are in place to serve your residence do not go up when you use more electricity or gas, and those costs do not go down when you use less electricity or gas. These costs remain relatively constant. It makes sense for us to collect the revenue needed to recover these costs in the same way.

to a monthly billing frequency. The AMI system also allows us to better serve our membership by providing daily meter readings, faster outage notifications, and enhanced billing data.

We encourage all members to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments. A monthly budget option will also be available. Taking advantage of these services will make receiving and paying your bills a more convenient process. Please visit pieg.smarthub. coop to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments today.

Please call our Member Services department at 800-423-6634 if you have any questions.

OPERATION ROUND-UP

COMMUNITIES FIRST FUND The PIE&G Communities First Fund has supported local organizations since 1998, funding vital projects for emergency responders, youth programs, and more You can help by rounding up your utility or fiber internet bill—a few cents a month can change lives! On average, members contribute only about 50 cents monthly, totaling around $6 each year, and every donation is tax-deductible.

Together, we can make a BIG difference— over $1.5 million has already been returned to northeast Michigan!

ENROLL TODAY

pieg.com/communities-first 800-423-6634

MIDWEST GRIT

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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

PIE&G Connect

Fiber Internet Built for Northeast Michigan We’re proud to provide reliable, highspeed fiber internet to northeast Michigan. So far, we’ve connected 6,000 homes and businesses—and we’re just getting started! Unlike traditional providers, we’re your neighbors, rooted in the community and committed to serving you.

channels as we expand. Stay tuned for the latest developments as we continue bringing world-class internet to your area!

A Fresh New Look for 2025

Here’s the latest on our fiber services, our new look, and what makes PIE&G Connect stand out from the competition.

We’ve refreshed our brand with a new logo that reflects our vibrant, highquality broadband services. You’ll start seeing it on marketing materials, social media, and our website. It’s the same PIE&G Connect you trust, now with a modern twist we hope you love.

Construction Updates

Why Choose PIE&G Connect?

Phase 3 construction is underway, and we’re excited to announce that PS1, PS3, and PS4 are now open for applications! If your home is in Phases 1 or 2 and you haven’t applied yet, it’s not too late—call 800-423-6634 to sign up.

You’ll receive updates through automated emails, phone calls, postcards, and our social media

We know you have options, but here’s why PIE&G Connect is the clear choice:

downloads with no data caps.

Stream, work, and play without limits.

• No Contracts: Stay with us because you want to, not because you have to.

• 24/7 Tech Support: Our team is here for you day and night to keep you connected.

• Included Premium Features: Every plan comes with the Gigaspire U6 Router, Experience IQ Parental Controls, and Protect IQ Network Security—all at no extra cost. Most service providers charge extra for these goodies, but not us!

• No Hidden Fees: Unlike others with low intro rates that climb later, we’re transparent, so you’ll always know what to expect.

• Unlimited High-Speed Internet: Enjoy lightning-fast uploads and

Ready to make the switch? Call us today at 800-423-6634 and join the PIE&G Connect family!

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Wrapped in Savings

By Abby Berry Ensuring your home is properly insulated can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable. Insulation acts like a cozy coat that reduces heat loss during winter months and a protective layer that reduces heat gain during summer months.

Many older homes have less insulation than newer homes, but even newer homes can benefit from additional insulation. While it’s not the least expensive efficiency improvement, adding insulation and air sealing your

home can provide the biggest bang for your buck in energy savings and overall comfort.

The most common areas to insulate are attics, ceilings, crawl spaces or unconditioned basements, exterior and interior walls, floors, and ductwork located in unconditioned spaces.

The amount and effectiveness rating of insulation required for each area varies by climate, but many websites, like those of the Department of Energy or Home Depot, provide easy-to-follow

recommendations. Visit energy.gov/ insulation to learn about recommended R-values for specific areas of the home based on climate zones.

It’s important to understand how insulation effectiveness is measured.

Insulation is rated in R-value, which measures the material’s resistance to conductive heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. The R-value you’ll need depends on factors like climate, type of heating and cooling system, and which area of the home you plan to insulate.

Insulation is offered in a wide range of materials from bulky fiberglass rolls to cellulose materials made from recycled paper products. If you’re considering installing additional insulation, talk to an expert who can offer guidance on the right materials for your budget, climate, and comfort needs.

Investing in proper insulation for your home not only enhances comfort but also reduces energy consumption.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

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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