January 2024
MICHIGAN
COUNTRY LINES Cherryland Electric Cooperative
WINTER THUNDERLAND I-500 Snowmobile Race Welcomes Thrill-Seekers to the UP
2024 Winter Bucket List
Unpacking the Swift Energy Policy Shift
Balance of Power: Understanding the Electric Grid
WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT1
Geothermal gives you the freedom to focus on life WaterFurnace geothermal 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’ll pay you back—and with the renewed 30% federal tax credit1, there’s never been a better time to switch to the Reliable Renewable. YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS
CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com
Berrien Springs Waterfurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com
Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com
Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616) 897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com
Negaunee J-Goods Plmb. & Htg. (906) 869-2522 jgoodsplumbingand heating.com
Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989) 582-0137 Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com
Manistique Hoholik Enterprises (906) 341-5065 hoholikenterprises.com Marinette, WI GPS Htg. & Clg (715)732-2111 gpsheatingcooling.com Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com
Cloverland: up to $4,200 Great Lakes: up to $3,000 Homeworks/Tri-County: up to $3,000 Presque Isle: up to $2,700 Cherryland: up to $2,500 Thumb Electric: up to $2,000 Alger Delta: up to $2,000
Traverse City D&W Mechanical (231) 941-1251 dwmechanical.com Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com
visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi
1. ENERGY STAR-rated units qualify for 30% through 2032, 26% through 2033 and 22% through 2034.
WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. ©2023
Contents countrylines.com
/michigancountrylines
January 2024 Vol. 44, No. 1 /michigancountrylines
Calling All E-Bike Enthusiasts! Share Your Electric Adventures! Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird
On the cover: The International 500 Snowmobile Race is the fastest and toughest race around. 2024 marks the 55th year of the race.
COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha
6 SEEKING SNOWBIRDS
PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd
Michigan Country Lines, USPS-591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933. Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors. Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS. Association Officers: Tom Sobeck, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, president and CEO.
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please
notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.
The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
Bird-watchers hoot with joy as snowy owls return to Michigan. Simple vegetarian recipes for eating healthy.
14 WINTER THUNDERLAND
I-500 Snowmobile Race welcomes thrillseekers to the UP Jan. 28–Feb. 3, 2024.
18 GUEST COLUMN Rural Michigan Pickleball: This hot new game is not only for big cities and celebrities.
MI Co-op Community
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
Recipe Contest
See details on page 10. Stir Fries & Curries due Feb. 1; Quiches & Savory Tarts due March 1.
Win a $100 bill credit!
Guest Column
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.
Win $200 for stories published!
Mystery Photo
See details on page 18.
Win a $100 bill credit!
Are you an avid e-bike rider with a passion for electric-powered adventures? We want to interview you for our upcoming magazine issue dedicated to the e-bike community! Whether you're cruising through city streets, conquering mountain trails, or exploring scenic routes, we want to hear your stories, tips, and experiences with your electric bikes.
What We’re Looking For: Personal Stories: Share your most memorable e-bike journeys and the impact they've had on your lifestyle. Tips and Tricks: Enlighten our readers with your e-bike wisdom. What accessories do you swear by? Any maintenance hacks to keep your ride in top shape? Stunning Photos: Capture the essence of your e-bike adventures. Share your favorite snapshots and let the visuals tell your story.
How to Participate: 1. Email us at editor@countrylines.com with the subject line “E-Bike Feature." 2. Include a brief overview of your e-bike experiences and why you love riding. 3. Attach high-quality photos showcasing your e-bike escapades.
Submission Deadline: Jan. 30
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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CO-OP NEWS Serve On Cherryland’s Board cherrylandelectric.coop /cherrylandelectriccoop @cherrylandec BOARD OF DIRECTORS
David Schweitzer, President 231-883-5860 dschweitzer@cherrylandelectric.coop
Gabe Schneider, Senior Vice President 517-449-6453 gschneider@cherrylandelectric.coop Valarie Handy, Secretary 231-392-4705 vhandy@cherrylandelectric.coop
Tom Van Pelt, Treasurer 231-386-5234 tvanpelt@cherrylandelectric.coop
Melinda Lautner, Director 231-947-2509 mlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop Terry Lautner, Director 231-883-6455 tlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop
Any qualified Cherryland member can be elected to serve a three-year term on the cooperative’s board of directors. Two directors will be elected at this year’s Annual Meeting, including one at-large director and one Grand Traverse/Kalkaska County director. To be nominated in 2024, candidates can file a petition with the cooperative’s administrative assistant starting the first day of March until 4 p.m. on the last business day of March. To receive a nominating petition, please fill out the board candidate interest form on our website. Review Article III of the co-op’s bylaws on our website for more information regarding board nominations and the election process.
Cherryland Offers Five Scholarships Cherryland offers five scholarships—three worth $4,000 ($1,000 for four years) for high school seniors and two for $1,000 each for adult scholarships (post high school). Applications for both scholarships are available on our website. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 5.
Cherryland Announces Date Of 86th Annual Meeting
Dean Adams, Director 231-642-0014 dadams@cherrylandelectric.coop
Cherryland’s 86th Annual Meeting will take place Thursday, June 13. The planned location of the Annual Meeting is Incredible Mo’s in Grawn. Cherryland will provide updates regarding the 86th Annual Meeting in Michigan Country Lines, on its website, and through social media.
CEO: Rachel Johnson
Cherryland Accepting Youth Tour Applications Until Jan. 12
Co-op Editors: Courtney Doyle: cdoyle@cherrylandelectric.coop OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. TELEPHONE NUMBERS 231-486-9200 or 1-800-442-8616 (Mich.) ADDRESS P.O. Box 298, Grawn, MI 49637 PAY STATION Cherryland Electric Cooperative office 5930 U.S. 31 South, Grawn MI, 49637 Cherryland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
High school sophomores and juniors from Cherryland’s service territory are invited to join the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour: a once-in-a-lifetime, all-expenses-paid leadership travel opportunity to Washington, D.C., in June. Applications must be submitted by Friday, Jan. 12. For more information and to apply, visit cooperativeyouthtour.com.
APPLY FOR A
TRIP OF A LIFETIME
JUNE 18 TO 23, 2024 AN ALL-EXPENSE-PAID TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C.
4 JANUARY 2024
“ As we begin working toward these ambitious clean energy standards, I would encourage you to continue to remind all of your current and aspiring elected officials how electric reliability and affordability impact you.” coal and natural gas, with variable electric generation resources, like wind and solar, will further destabilize Michigan’s electric grid.
Michigan’s Clean Energy Challenge:
Unpacking the Swift Policy Shift By Rachel Johnson, Cherryland CEO
n October, the Michigan Legislature swiftly passed several major energy policies that will impact Michiganders for generations to come. The bills passed on party lines, with all Democrats voting in favor and all Republicans voting against.
I
The Detroit News described the committee hearings as “one-sided and brief” while lamenting the passage of legislation in the middle of the night “without thorough debate or much, if any, public input.” The most ambitious piece of the bill package is a requirement that 100% of Michigan’s electricity must come from clean energy sources by 2040 (SB 271). This bill requires utilities to get 50% of their energy from renewables by 2030 and 60% by 2035. Starting in 2035, the mandate begins recognizing nuclear energy as a clean energy source for all utilities. Our statewide association successfully lobbied for a provision in the bill to allow Cherryland to
count the output of Palisades Nuclear Power Plant sooner than 2035. This is a big win for our cooperative, reinforcing the value of the long-term vision we have for Palisades and nuclear energy in our power supply portfolio. While the cooperative is well-served by our nuclear commitments, the bill overall is still problematic for Michigan. It sets an aggressive pace for renewable energy development over the next 8–10 years. This timeline is likely unachievable given the time it takes to finance, permit, and build projects. Most of these projects will be built in a high-inflation, high-interest rate environment, which will drive up costs and lead to higher electric bills. But, most importantly, this bill does not give enough attention to electric reliability. To keep the lights on today, Michigan is dependent on importing power from outside the state 88% of the time. Forcing the rapid replacement of always available electric generation resources, like
The overall goals of SB 271 are laudable. Mitigating the environmental impact of electricity production is important. The development of renewable energy is good for Michigan. Independent of the mandate, Cherryland and its power supplier, Wolverine Power Cooperative, are already developing enough solar energy to power over 100,000 homes. Those resources will be incorporated into our portfolio alongside plenty of reliable, always available energy from our nuclear, coal, and natural gasgenerating units. Good energy policy balances three needs: affordability, reliability, and environmental impact. I am concerned that the policies that were passed last fall focus exclusively on environmental impact and were not appropriately vetted for their impact on reliability and affordability. As we begin working toward these ambitious clean energy standards, I would encourage you to continue to remind all of your current and aspiring elected officials how electric reliability and affordability impact you. When it comes to energy policy, there is too much at stake if we get it wrong and leave Michiganders in the dark.
To learn more, scan here for the latest episode of Co-op Energy Talk.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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Bird-Watchers Hoot With Joy As
SNOWY OWLS RETURN TO MICHIGAN By Yvette Pecha
very winter, “snowbirds” who live in the colder northern parts of North America leave their three-season residences behind in a bid to escape the frigidness and snow. While they head to warm locales like Arizona, Florida, and Texas, there are actual snowbirds out there that seek out refuges a little less tropical. This is the reason elusive snowy owls can oftentimes be seen in Michigan—their own unique version of Florida.
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Snowy owls live most of the year in the Arctic, and the majority of them stay there year-round. But from late October to December, in a phenomenon known as irruption, some birds will leave the tundra. Most will go to Canada and the northern United States, as well as parts of Asia and Europe. Every year is different—some years will see high numbers of the owls while, in others, you may be lucky to
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JANUARY 2024
see one or two. “It waxes and wanes,” said Straits Area Audubon Society member Steve Baker. Baker says that owls that migrate the soonest to Michigan tend to first congregate around the Great Lakes, where it is still warm enough for them to hunt for ducks and other waterfowl. “You’ll see them on the shorelines and on piers and other structures around the lakes,” he said. But once the water freezes, they’ve got to find a new hunting ground. “They’ll head for places with fields and other flat, open grounds,” Baker said. “There aren’t any trees in the Arctic, so they’re heading to places that look like home.” He said they’ll often perch on barns, hay bales, utility poles, and fenceposts, where they keep constant watch for prey, mostly meadow voles, which are similar to the lemmings they eat the rest of the year.
The highest concentrations of snowy owls in Michigan are found in Rudyard, Pickford, and Sault townships.
While snowy owls have been found throughout the state, the most populous areas for the birds are the eastern Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula. But if you want the absolute best shot at observing these raptors, you’ll need to head to a small UP community about 30 miles north of St. Ignace—Rudyard Township. Baker, who as a member of the Audubon Society contributes to the society’s annual Christmas bird count, said the count finds that Rudyard almost always has the highest number of owls. Snowy owls like hay fields, and Baker says Rudyard residents will be happy to tell you that they have the best hay crop in the world. “Their hay is actually shipped down to Florida for racehorses,” Baker said. He says because Rudyard has clay soil that doesn’t drain well, regular crops are tough to grow, hence the focus on hay. In January 2019, Rudyard proclaimed itself the Snowy Owl Capital of Michigan.
and dusk. Look in structures that are low to the ground and also scan flat, snowy areas for irregularities. A dirty patch or lump just might be an owl facing away from you. With their sleek white plumage, bright yellow eyes, and wingspans of up to four feet long, these feathered friends are certainly captivating. “They are beautiful and they’re just great fun to look at,” Baker said. “Whether you’re an avid birder or not, snowy owls are just one of those birds that people get excited about.”
For more information, visit: straitsareaaudubon.com /StraitsAreaAudubonSociety
THE LEMMING/SNOW OWL CONNECTION In the Arctic, snowy owls feed on lemmings, which look like chubby hamsters. And they can eat a bunch—up to 1,600 a year! Because they’re so reliant on lemmings as a food source, their population cycles are linked. If lemmings are low, owls may wait to hatch young. Scarce lemming years translate into owl couples only having one or two offspring, and sometimes none at all. But lots of lemmings means Mom and Dad can provide for lots of babies, so they’ll lay more eggs. These baby booms typically result in irruption years, with the younger owls leaving in winter to avoid competing with adults for food. In peak lemming/owl reproduction years, young “snowie” sightings have been reported as far south as Texas and Florida.
Baker, who lives in Indian River, Michigan, travels to Rudyard several times a week to glimpse these beauties for himself and take pictures (he is a contributing photographer to many websites/publications). Most people in search of the owls will look from their vehicles as they drive down the road. “You’ll sometimes just see a caravan of cars,” Baker said. The town obviously welcomes visitors who want to see this rare bird for themselves, but it is expected that observers will adhere to a few guidelines. “These are beautiful, photogenic birds,” Baker said, “but it’s very important that people don’t do anything to harass them.” In general, he says spectators should be respectful, keep their distance, and be as quiet as possible. He says people who spot the owls while driving can get out of their cars, but they should not wander onto adjacent private land. If you want to witness this spectacle, plan your trip to Rudyard before late March—that is when the owls typically leave for their Arctic home. Whether you’re in Rudyard or anywhere else where the birds have been spotted, there are a few things you can do to increase your luck of seeing one. The best times to see them are at dawn
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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Winter
Energy-Saving Tips Winter’s cool temps driving your heating costs up? Try these tips to help save energy.
Find and Seal Leaks • Find and seal air leaks in your home. Common sources include utility cut-throughs and plumbing penetrations, gaps around chimneys and recessed lights, unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets, window and door frames, and outlets and light switches.
Maintain Your Heating System • Replace your filter every month. • Have your furnace inspected by a professional every year. They will ensure everything is working as it should and can alert you to potential problems before they become an emergency. • If you use a pellet or wood stove, clean the flue regularly.
Maintain Your Fireplace • Keep the damper closed when not in use. Otherwise, warm air will escape up the chimney. • When in use, lower the thermostat and open the nearest window slightly. • Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room. • Check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible. Also, add caulking around the hearth.
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Lower Your Thermostat • Turn down your thermostat by 10 degrees for eight hours, and you could save up to 10% on your heating costs. Consider investing in a smart thermostat that will automatically adjust temperatures for you.
Let the Sunshine In
• When it’s time to replace your system, select an energy-efficient model.
• Open curtains or blinds on sunny days to let the sun help warm your rooms.
• Vacuum your vents and registers regularly, and ensure that vents aren’t blocked by drapery and furniture.
• Close blinds and curtains at night to prevent heat from escaping.
Use Ceiling Fans • Set your fan to a low speed with the blades rotating in a clockwise direction. This will push the warm air collected at the ceiling around the room.
Visit energy.gov/energysaver for more tips on improving your home’s efficiency all year long.
YOU’RE PART OF A LARGER POWER GRID Every time you charge your phone, you’re connecting to more than just an outlet—you’re plugging into a complex power grid. The Interconnected Power Grid Cherryland Electric Cooperative, along with four other cooperatives, gets its power from Wolverine Power Cooperative. Together, we co-own Wolverine, which makes power more affordable and reliable than operating on our own. Wolverine and Cherryland are a part of an even bigger network that extends from Canada to Louisiana, connecting various power generators and high voltage transmission companies.
How Being Connected Impacts You The connected grid works great as long as there is enough supply to meet demand. In recent years, utilities have faced increasing pressure to retire coal plants faster than they can replace them, resulting in a reduction of power supply reserves. Even though Wolverine has secured more than enough power for Cherryland members, we share the grid and its power supply with other utilities.
WE SHARE POWER
Being connected allows regions to share power and send it to where it’s needed most. This provides you with enhanced reliability and reduced energy costs.
WE SHARE RISK
If one part of the region has an electricity shortage, it can spread through the connected grid like a contagious illness.
WE SHARE RESPONSIBILITY
Even though Cherryland has more than enough power to meet your needs, during a grid shortage, rules can require us to participate in rolling blackouts or ask you to conserve energy.
So, the next time you switch on a light or plug in your gadgets, remember that you’re plugging into a network of collaboration.
MI CO-OP Recipes
VEGETARIAN
Simple vegetarian recipes for eating healthy
WINNING RECIPE! COLORFUL ASIAN RICE SALAD Amy Schultz, Great Lakes Energy
2 cups dried brown rice 3 cups water 3 green onions, sliced 1–2 stalks celery, sliced ½ pound purple cabbage, thinly sliced or grated ½ cup almonds, toasted 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted 1 red bell pepper, finely diced 1 yellow bell pepper, finely diced 1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts, sliced, discard juice 1 cup broccolini, diced, discard thick stems 1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped or minced Dressing*: ¼ cup avocado oil 1½ tablespoons sesame oil 1 clove garlic, crushed & minced ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon brown sugar 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, juice included
Recipe Contest Win a $100 energy bill credit! Stir Fries & Curries due Feb. 1; Quiches & Savory Tarts due March 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. 10 JANUARY 2024
Cook rice until chewy and tender, using a pressure cooker, rice cooker, or stovetop. Meanwhile, prepare the ingredients. If needed, toast the almonds and sesame seeds by adding each to a dry skillet and stirring over medium heat, until lightly toasted. In a small bowl, add all dressing ingredients and combine. Once the rice is ready, in a large bowl, add the cooked rice, all remaining ingredients, and the dressing. Stir until combined. Serve warm or chilled. Makes about 10 cups of salad. * Note: If preparing ahead of time, keep sauce separate and combine before serving. Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/recipe_ type/videos/
GARDEN ENCHILADAS Nancy Hascall, Cherryland
2 tablespoons olive oil 1 sweet potato, peeled & diced 1 large onion, peeled & diced 1 zucchini, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed & drained 1 teaspoon cumin 1 (30-ounce) can enchilada sauce, divided 2 cups grated cheese (cheddar or chihuahua, etc.), divided ½ cup jalapeño cream cheese, divided 8 large flour tortilla shells 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced Garnish: • guacamole • sour cream • diced tomatoes Preheat oven to 350 F. Heat the oil in a large frying pan on medium/mediumhigh heat. Add the diced sweet potato
and stir to coat with oil. Cover the pan and sizzle for about 4 minutes, until the sweet potatoes begin to soften, stirring occasionally. Add the diced onion and zucchini. Sauté uncovered for another few minutes, until the onions start to caramelize. Add the garlic, corn, black beans, and cumin. Cook and stir 1–2 minutes. Coat the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan with about 1 cup of enchilada sauce. Evenly divide the cooked ingredients into the tortillas. Add a heaping tablespoon of grated cheese and a teaspoon of cream cheese in each tortilla before rolling it up and placing it seam-side down in the pan. Nestle the enchiladas next to each other. Cover the enchiladas with the remaining sauce, then sprinkle the remaining cheese. Arrange the jalapeño slices on top. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 8 minutes. Garnish with guacamole, sour cream, and diced tomatoes. Enjoy!
MUSHROOM RICE CASSEROLE Angela Reed, Cherryland
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided ½ pound portobello mushrooms (or mushroom of choice), cleaned and chopped 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped 3–4 garlic cloves, minced 3 cups cooked brown jasmine rice 2 large eggs 1 cup cottage cheese ½ cup sour cream ½ teaspoon fine sea salt ²⁄ ³ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9x13inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil. In a large skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add
the mushrooms to the skillet and lightly salt; sauté until mushrooms have released their liquid. Add onions and cook 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cooked rice. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, sour cream, and ½ teaspoon salt. In a large bowl, combine the rice mixture and the cottage cheese mixture. Add the combined mixture to the baking dish. Sprinkle with ¹⁄³ cup Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 30 minutes. Top with remaining ¹⁄³ cup Parmesan. Serve immediately.
SUPERB SPINACH LASAGNA ROLLS Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy
EASY VEG RATATOUILLE Betsy Little, Alger Delta
1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium red onion, minced 1 medium red bell pepper, diced 1 medium eggplant, diced 1 small zucchini, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup basil, chopped 1 large tomato, diced (or 1 15-ounce can diced tomato) ¼ teaspoon salt
¹⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper In a large skillet, add olive oil and heat. Add the onion and sauté for 10 minutes, stirring. Add the red pepper, eggplant, zucchini, and garlic. Cook covered 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in basil, tomato, salt, and pepper. May serve on rice, mashed potato, or couscous.
8 lasagna noodles, cooked to al dente, drained & cooled 1¾ cups ricotta 2 cups cottage cheese 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded & divided 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded & divided 3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced ¼ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper 3 cups spaghetti sauce, divided • fresh parsley, chopped
Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, combine ricotta and cottage cheese, 1½ cups Monterey Jack, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread half of the spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a 9-inch broilersafe baking dish. Spread filling mixture evenly onto each noodle. Gently roll up each noodle lengthwise and place seamside down in the baking dish. Drizzle roll ups with remaining sauce and top with remaining cheese. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is dark golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy! MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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2024 Northern Michigan
Winter Bucket List Whether you love the cold or can’t wait for summer, it can be easy to feel a little cooped up during the winter months. Thankfully, we live in a region full of unique places and events to explore! Here are just a few items we’d suggest adding to your winter 2024 bucket list:
Iron Fish Distillery’s Base Camp Tent Experience Sip on craft cocktails and enjoy a wood-fired pizza in your own private tent as part of Iron Fish Distillery’s Base Camp Experience. For added ambiance, visit in the evening when the snow between the rows of cozy tents sparkles under lights strung like stars. Reservations are required
12 JANUARY 2024
Snow Tubing at Mt. Holiday Looking for a way to get out and enjoy the winter wonderland that is northern Michigan with the whole family? Snag a reservation and tube down the slopes at Mt. Holiday. When you’re done and ready to warm up, head into the lodge to sip on some hot cocoa by the fire. Wednesday–Sunday Reservations required
North American Vasa Festival of Races The 48th annual North American Vasa Festival of Races is all about friendly, fun, and of course safe competition! The 2024 schedule includes events for all abilities, including the 27K freestyle and 15K classic signature ski races. The fat bike and snowshoe races are also returning, as well as the Michigan Cup and Collegiate Combo Challenge. Friday, Feb. 9th–Sunday, Feb. 11th at Timber Ridge Resort
Crystal Mountain – Teddy Fest This annual event held at Crystal Mountain since 2006 is presented by the Teddy Knape Foundation, which supports adaptive sports and has raised over $75,000 since its inception. Hit the slopes for raffles and giveaways! Enter for your chance to win some great prizes, plus the crew at Crystal will be spinning tunes with a live DJ for your on-slope entertainment! Saturday, Feb. 17
Traverse City Restaurant Week Who doesn’t love great food and a great deal? For Traverse City Restaurant Week, the area’s best eateries get creative, curating unique menus with special pricing for this annual event. So, get in touch with your inner foodie and maybe you’ll find a new favorite local eatery. Feb. 25–Mar. 2
WINTER THUNDERLAND I-500 Snowmobile Race Welcomes Thrill-Seekers to the UP By Emily Haines Lloyd
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n the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, nestled amid the snow-covered landscapes of Sault Ste. Marie, a winter spectacle has been captivating spectators for over five decades. The International 500 Snowmobile Race (I-500), a thrilling 500-mile endurance race on a onemile oval ice track, is a testament to not only the athletic individuals who participate, but also the spirit of the volunteers and residents who come together to share the beauty of the Upper Peninsula and the hospitality of smalltown living. The story of the I-500 began in 1969, when that year’s Indianapolis 500 pace car came to town and a small group wondered if a 500-mile snowmobile race could rival the legendary IndyCar race. Today, after 55 years and only a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, the I-500 owes its resilience to the unwavering commitment of its organizers.
A RACE LIKE NO OTHER Teams from Alaska to Louisiana, as well as several Canadian border towns, converge in Sault Ste. Marie to participate
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in this remarkable event for a full week, with the final I-500 race held on the first Saturday of February each year. “It’s the only mile-long oval ice track in North America,” said International 500 Chairman & Director Ric Federau. “It takes weeks for our volunteers to build the track, using 2 million gallons of water. It’s the fastest and toughest race around.” The I-500 race features 38 sleds (snowmobiles), each with 14 team members, including two to three drivers. Like the Indy 500, pit stops are crucial, with team members refueling the sleds and making any necessary repairs. The drivers cover a grueling 500 miles at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour, making this a true high-speed showdown. The green flag drops at 10 a.m., with the race lasting into the late afternoon. Though the final race is the main event, the entire week is a celebration of winter sports, starting early with time trials and the track opening up to the public for skating. A highlight is the world's largest kids' snowmobile race, where youngsters compete on the same track under the lights, with their proud parents acting as their pit crews.
“Without a doubt, it is our volunteers and greater community who make this race a success. It’s not only their dedication and hard work; it’s how they greet visitors like neighbors. They make sure everyone feels at home.”
A BOOST FOR THE COMMUNITY AND THE ECONOMY The I-500 isn't just a thrilling event for spectators; it’s a financial boon for the Sault Ste. Marie community. The race attracts 10,000 to 15,000 spectators who spend a day or a week in the area to enjoy the winter fun. The economic impact of the race reaches far and wide, with hotels, restaurants, and local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors. A study conducted by Lake Superior State University revealed that the economic impact of the I-500 is felt as far south as Gaylord (over 100 miles south of Sault Ste. Marie), highlighting the race's ability to draw visitors and generate revenue for the entire region, while showcasing Michigan as a hub for winter sports.
POWERED BY VOLUNTEERS & COMMUNITY The heart and soul of the I-500 is its dedicated team of 200 people who work tirelessly to ensure the race’s success—this is the only professional snowmobile race run entirely by volunteers. These individuals are the backbone of the event, contributing their time and effort to make it a memorable experience for all. It also has built its reputation as a premiere event due to the kindness and hospitality of the businesses and residents of the town who open their doors and hearts to welcome winter sports enthusiasts. “Without a doubt, it is our volunteers and greater community who make this race a success,” said Federau. “It’s not only their dedication and hard work; it’s how they greet visitors like neighbors. They make sure everyone feels at home.” The I-500 reminds us how a shared passion can bring people together and create enduring traditions that withstand the test of time.
Jan. 28–Feb. 3, 2024 For more information, visit: i-500.com
/SooI500Race
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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Your Board In Action: October • Cherryland’s safety and operations manager presented the findings from a recent assessment of our safety program. The Rural Electric Safety Achievement Program (RESAP) is a program put on by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) in which safety employees from other co-ops audit our safety program to highlight what’s working well for us and where we can improve. • The cooperative’s CFO and COO presented the cooperative’s capital budget for 2024. • The board received a presentation from Farm Club and approved their application for a loan through Cherryland’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG).
November • The cooperative’s CFO presented the cooperative’s operating budget for 2023. The board reviewed the budget and approved the 2024 capital budget.
As part of Cherryland’s annual holiday giving, Cherryland employees donated 80 pairs of snowpants, 40 pairs of gloves, and 25 water bottles to make sure kids at Betsie Valley Elementary and Kaleva Norman Dickson Schools have the gear they need to be successful at school!
• The board received a presentation from The Bluebird Restaurant and Tavern and approved their application for a loan through Cherryland’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program (REDLG). • Despite one of the busiest construction seasons in recent memory and several supply chain challenges, Cherryland’s COO reported that Cherryland crews continue to complete more than 90% of construction service orders within 15 days. Members have the opportunity to provide input to the board prior to any regularly scheduled board meeting. To have your comments included in a monthly board packet for review, please submit them to Shannon Beery at sbeery@cherrylandelectric.coop a minimum of three business days before the monthly board meeting.
For a more detailed breakdown of the board meeting, be sure to check out the Board Meeting Brief on the Co-op Energy Talk podcast.
The Great Outdoors
PHOTO CONTEST
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3 2023 Photo Contest Winner
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5 Enter to win up to $200 off your energy bill!
Submit Your “Pets” Photos By Jan. 20!
Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our Facebook contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites. Our January theme is Pets! Photos can be submitted through Jan. 20 to be featured in our March issue.
Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit!
To enter the contest, visit cherrylandelectric.coop/photo-contest or visit facebook.com/cherrylandelectriccoop for a link to the current photo contest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2024, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your December 2024 bill.
Congrats to Kayla Morrison for winning the 2023 bill credit! She submitted this photo titled “Wagon Ride” for the Outdoor Adventures photo contest last January!
6 MOST VOTES
1. Winter Sands – Lauren Granger 2. Our favorite hiking trail! – Vanessa Rice 3. Island in the Fall – Barbara Stump 4. What a catch! – Marilyn Butkovich 5. Holding a Lake Michigan sunset – Stacy Kirby 6. Paddling into fall – Amy Simon
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17
MI CO-OP Guest Column
Rural Michigan Pickleball By Christopher Mulder, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member
y mom was a trendsetter when she picked up and started to share her newfound pickleball game approximately six years ago, well before the current pickleball rave. While celebrities are pickleball influencers and investing in pickleball in heavily populated areas, rural America is picking up the sport, too.
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Mystery Photo
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Where In Michigan Is This? Identify the correct location of the photo above by Jan. 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.
The first place mom introduced pickleball to my family was during a Tuesday morning game at a local church’s indoor multiuse court. We were on Christmas break, visiting my parents from Texas, our latest Air Force assignment at the time. My family of five played with young and old alike, building community, embracing light competition, and raising our heart rate. We were hooked. Over the years since then, we have played wherever we could find court space—back at the church, close-by community center, or Village of New Era’s pickleball court, which it has thanks to a grant. Playing the game with our school-age children is always a highlight.
Nov./Dec. 2023 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Keith Hemenway, a Midwest Energy & Communications member, who correctly identified the Dome at the Michigan State Capitol. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/ August, September, and November/December.
The most recent and significant pickleball playing event occurred this past summer. We put together a small but competitive pickleball tournament at New Era’s pickleball court.
After clearing the water from the court following an overnight rain, it was time for opening ceremonies— invocation, national anthem, and tournament rules. Over the next few hours, the six teams aggressively competed for the title of inaugural champion, but of course only one team can come out on top. That team was composed of my two teenage sons; they played with heart and poise, defeating my wife and me in the final round. Of course, in this house, we haven’t heard the end of their big victory. Rural America can offer excellent pickleball play with friends, family, and even strangers. Our goal is to have an annual pickleball tournament in the Village of New Era. Even beyond this tournament, I hope to continue making memories well into the future while playing pickleball in west Michigan and other locations around the state.
About the Author: Christopher enjoys playing pickleball, making maple syrup, and traveling. He is a United States Air Force Officer and F-16 pilot. He once wrote an opinion piece for the Wall Street Journal suggesting we send a president to space.
Guest Column Win $200 for stories published!
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit. 18 JANUARY 2024
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Starting the new year with a new phone number, email address, mailing address or even a new last name?
Don’t forget to give us a call at 1 (800) 442-8616 to update your account!