January 2024 MIdwest by Country Lines

January 2024

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES Midwest Energy & Communications

WINTER THUNDERLAND I-500 Snowmobile Race Welcomes Thrill-Seekers to the UP

Scholarship Applications Open

Chat With Fiber Cup Champs

Vandalia’s Most Unique Airbnb

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.

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

teammidwest.com

New Year. New Beginnings.

/teammidwest

Robert Hance, President/CEO

VAN BUREN KALAMAZOO

CASS

LENAWEE

MONROE

ST JOSEPH

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND CASSOPOLIS SOLUTIONS CENTER 60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, MI 49031 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PAW PAW SOLUTIONS CENTER 59825 S. LaGrave Street, Paw Paw, MI 49079 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Tecumseh Solutions Center 5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Clarence “Topper” Barth, Chairperson, Three Rivers 269-279-9233 Clarence.Barth@teammidwest.com

Ben Russell, Vice Chairperson, Constantine 269-506-1590 Ben.Russell@teammidwest.com Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443 Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816 John.Green@teammidwest.com Dan Bodette, Wauseon 419-344-4015 Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com

Gerry Bundle, Cassopolis 269-414-0164 Gerry.Bundle@teammidwest.com

Erika Escue-Cadieux, Onsted 419-346-1088 erika.escue-cadieux@teammidwest.com Fred Turk, Decatur 269-423-7762 Fred.Turk@teammidwest.com

Jim Wiseley, Bloomingdale 269-760-4619 Jim.Wiseley@teammidwest.com PRESIDENT/CEO: Robert Hance

DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Amy Pales COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: Grant Zamora

Midwest Energy & Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Please note: electric customers of MEC must adhere to our bylaws, which can be found at teammidwest.com/bylaws. 4 JANUARY 2024

hat do you want to be when you grow up? As adults, we love asking younger people that question. It can be such an abstract concept for someone on the brink of adulthood. A few know with absolute certainty, many have no clue, and the rest think they know, but quickly discover they were wrong.

I fell into the third bucket. I originally wanted to be an architect. However, after some schooling, I quickly decided that wasn’t for me. I wanted to draw, but I wasn’t interested in all the other stuff that went with the program. I decided to drop out, and that’s when God opened a door for me. In 1974, I took a job drawing system maps for a small electric cooperative near my home in Newaygo, Michigan. I didn’t really know anything about co-ops at that time. In fact, I thought the place was an appliance store, which it kind of was. Back then, electric co-ops often sold appliances and helped customers learn how to use them. Anyway, there I was in the O and A Cooperative basement with a T-square and drafting table, about to embark on a lifelong career serving my rural neighbors. I literally started at the bottom. Over the past 50 years, I’ve had many amazing opportunities and several twists and turns. God has been my guiding light through all of them. It was through my faith in Him that I saw, and still see, opportunity where others see risk. It’s what encouraged me to keep going when life’s challenges felt unbearable. And it’s what kept me grounded and willing to advocate for what I knew was right. Yet, I haven’t done this alone. I’ve been surrounded by great colleagues, customers, and friends filled with passion, commitment, and that rural grit that has made this country great. In fact, part of the reason we started our internet service was because you came to us and said, “We need this.” So, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work. Now when I see the impact that our internet has had and continues to have on our communities, I feel nothing short of awe. But once again, God has guided me and told me it’s time to pass the torch. I will retire in the fall. It feels incredibly surreal to write those words. This was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made, but I learned long ago that when God speaks, you listen. Still, I struggle to wrap my head around what it will be like not to walk these halls, see these faces, do this work. After all, MEC isn’t just my place of employment; it’s who I am. Please know this: At the end of the day, all this work over the past five decades has been about helping others. I want our corner of the world to be a place that people love to call home. I want our communities to be vibrant, relevant, and sustainable. Ultimately, I want to honor the legacy of our forefathers from 80 years ago who put up light poles when others wouldn’t. And with that, I thank you for allowing me to serve you for 22 years. MEC wouldn’t be where it is today if it weren’t for your commitment to your neighbors and community.

“ I want our corner of the world to be a place that people love to call home. I want our communities to be vibrant, relevant, and sustainable.”

Attention High School Seniors Answer this video challenge and you could earn $1,000 toward your post-secondary education! EC provides three main services: electric, propane, and fiber internet. Pick ONE and create a commercial to promote it.

Don’t just read a script to us—think outside the box! Imagine you’re making a commercial for TV. What kinds of artwork, storytelling, and other creative flourishes can you use to advertise your chosen service in an unforgettable way? To help you out, we’ve included tips on how to make a first-rate commercial, plus some examples of commercials we think are great at teammidwest.com/scholarships.

More About the Scholarship High school seniors whose families receive monthly service from MEC at their primary residence are eligible to apply. Children of MEC employees and board members are NOT eligible. Selection for the scholarship is based on the video submission along with academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement and/or employment, and honors and awards. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a four-point scale is required, and an official transcript must be submitted for final approval. We award four scholarships each year and announce winners in the spring. The deadline to apply is Monday, March 18, 2024.

Online Applications Open for NRECA Youth Tour p to two students will be selected for this allexpense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June 2024. Youth Tour is an opportunity to explore our nation’s capital, meet with members of Congress, and build leadership skills.

Our top applicants will participate in a hands-on educational experience with MEC employees on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. The day will start at our headquarters in Cassopolis, where attendees will learn about MEC and see firsthand what it means to be part of an electric cooperative. After getting to know participants during MEC Day, we will select up to two students to go on Youth Tour. Students must be high school sophomores or juniors, and their families must receive electric service from MEC. Please note that children of MEC employees and board members are not eligible to apply. The deadline to apply is Jan. 12, 2024. To learn more and fill out an application, visit cooperativeyouthtour.com. MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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.

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

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

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 Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC), along with four other cooperatives, relies on Wolverine Power Cooperative to make the electricity we deliver to you. MEC and Wolverine are part of an interconnected power grid. We work with grid operators called PJM Interconnection and MISO, who ensure there is enough electricity to meet MEC customers’ demands.

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 MEC customers, 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. PJM and MISO manage the flow of electricity in several states and parts of Canada.

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 MEC 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.

Vandalia Grain Bin Sleeps Two Spending the night in the Cass/Vandalia area? Consider sleeping in a grain bin.

mong the Airbnb app’s remodeled barns, tiny homes, igloos, and windmills is one of southwest Michigan’s newest and most unique hotel alternatives: The Grain Binn, a fully converted silo that features a loft bedroom, king-sized bed, two full bathrooms, and much more. It’s the newest addition to Creekside Cabinns, a collection of Airbnbs owned by MEC customers and Cass-Vandalia community staples Virgil and Dawn Stutzman. The Stutzmans were seasoned rental managers long before the creation of Airbnb. Dawn’s parents moved a log house from 1836 across the country so they could use it as a bed and breakfast. When Dawn and Virgil married and bought property in Indiana, it had an extra house that they rented to visitors. After moving to Vandalia, the couple established the immensely popular Farm House Bakery and Restaurant, which they operated for 17 years. The Stutzmans became famous in the community for their food and service. When they were ready to begin a new journey, they sold Farm House to their daughter and son-in-law, who merged it with their own Bullseye Marketplace in Three Rivers.

The next question was what to do with the storage building they had built for Farm House’s needs. The years had been kind to the Stutzmans, gifting them with 11 children, 42 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren—and full-family get-togethers had become a yearly tradition. They decided the best way to use the building would be to turn it into a place their grandkids could stay during their reunions, allowing them to rent out the space for the remainder of the year. This building would become The Cottage, the first of three Creekside Cabinns properties. The success of The Cottage spurred the creation of the second property, a small trailer that would be dubbed The Bungalow. With two properties listed, the Stutzmans’ attention turned toward a grain bin that had sat on their property since they bought it. They had always wanted to convert it and decided now was the perfect time. In the summer of 2023, The Grain Binn accepted its first customers. The beautiful two-person getaway is situated by a creek in the woods, well away from the road and from any other homes in the area. Guests love being able to shut off their devices

Virgil (left) and Dawn (right) Stutzman

and connect with their companions, sitting in the hot tub or by the fire, watching the woodland critters and gazing at the stars. Virgil and Dawn Stutzman are southwest Michigan innovators who recognize the importance of looking at old things in new ways to create vibrant, relevant, and sustainable rural communities. That’s our mission here at MEC—when world-class services are brought to the countryside, everyone benefits. All Creekside Cabinns properties are available to rent on Airbnb and Vrbo. Learn more at CreeksideCabinns.com or find them on Facebook (@Creekside-Cabinns) and Instagram (@creeksidecabinns).

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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

MEC in the Community

The last few months of 2023 were busy for MEC! Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours We were fortunate enough to be able to host Business After Hours events for the Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce. Community business leaders met at MEC and toured our service centers. Left: Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours

Mitchell Park Pavilion We donated a timber frame pavilion to Raisin Township, home of our new Tecumseh solutions center. In September, our linemen helped load, transport, unload, and assemble it in Mitchell Park. Right: MEC linemen help build a pavilion in Mitchell Park

United Way Rake a Difference In November, a team of MECers spent their day raking yards and cleaning gutters for 10 southwest Michigan seniors as part of United Way’s Rake a Difference event. Left: United Way Rake a Difference

12 JANUARY 2024

Q: Has winning the tournament opened up any new opportunities or discussions for the team? A: I would say it definitely has, and combined with our continued success within our league, has led to many positive conversations with school administration regarding the growth of our program. We have also been contacted by a few college coaches who are starting up programs and are interested in coming to talk to our team about their schools. Q: What’s next for you all? A: After further conversations with our school administration and the growing popularity of our program, we have decided to add a few more game titles to our repertoire for the Spring 2024 season. Along with Rocket League and Super Smash Bros., we have plans to add Overwatch 2, Splatoon 3, and Madden 24. Left to right: Kyle Greig, Lincoln Deman, Christian Gatien

Hartland Eagles Soar at First MEC x SMC Fiber Cup Fifteen teams gathered with their friends and family members at Southwestern Michigan College for a Rocket League video game showdown.

he first-ever MEC x SMC Fiber Cup began at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 21. After nearly four hours, three teams had emerged victorious: the Dowagiac Chieftains in third, Toasted Mayo in second, and the Hartland Eagles in first. The Chieftains and Toasted Mayo players won gift cards, and the Eagles got championship belts and new Xbox Series X consoles. The three teams also secured donations to their school or charity of choice.

Q: Why is esports an important program for schools to offer their students? A: As a high school varsity esports coach, integrating esports into our school’s offerings has proven indispensable. Beyond gaming, it cultivates essential skills, fostering teamwork, communication, and adaptability. This holistic skill development enhances academic performance and prepares students for a rapidly evolving job market. Esports engages students who might not be drawn to traditional sports, serving as a powerful motivator and enhancing the overall school experience. Moreover, according to the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, “45% of students involved in esports haven’t participated in any other school sport or activity.” The most rewarding part about starting an esports team in Hartland has been hearing a group of kids tell me how excited they are to, as they say, “finally be a part of something” in their school.

This isn’t the end! The next MEC x SMC Fiber Cup will be this fall. Watch for more info in a future issue.

The Hartland High School Eagles were our farthesttraveling team, joining us all the way from Hartland, Michigan. They’re also a brand-new team, with 2023 being their first year as an official school club. We chatted with Eagles Coach Cameron Montney about the Fiber Cup, esports, and what’s next for the team. Q: What made you decide to enter the Fiber Cup? A: With this being our first year as a club, I knew that our students had never played in front of a live audience before, and I didn’t want their first time to be at the state championship. So when I found the Fiber Cup when doing some late-night Googling, I knew that this would be the perfect opportunity for the kids.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

WINTER THUNDERLAND I-500 Snowmobile Race Welcomes Thrill-Seekers to the UP By Emily Haines Lloyd

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

14 JANUARY 2024

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

COMMANDIQ’S BUILT-IN EXPLAINER Did you know the free CommandIQ app includes information pages? On screens where you see a icon, tap it to pull up a description for that page’s features. Once you’ve found what you’re looking for, tap the X in the upper-right corner to continue using CommandIQ. The free CommandIQ app can block unwanted websites and apps, protect your network from hackers and viruses, and keep your kids off the internet during homework time. You need a GigaSpire router to use CommandIQ. If you don't have one, we'll send you one for free. Go to teammidwest.com/which-router to see which router you have and request a free upgrade.

Cell service spotty where you live? Get fiber phone w/ unlimited calls from MEC! Residential: $39.95/mo. + tax Combine fiber internet & phone from MEC and enjoy a $10/mo. discount. LEARN MORE AT

teammidwest.com/phone

ADD A PERSON TO YOUR BILL ALERTS Did you know we can send bill alerts to more than one person?

If you need to be added to a loved one’s bills, please give us a call at 800-492-5989 or email us at info@teammidwest.com. We'll work with you to make sure you receive the same information they do. If you'd like to add someone else to your own bill alerts, follow the steps below.

Desktop or Laptop

1. Log into your account at teammidwest.com. 2. Click Settings > Contact Methods. 3. Click Add E-Mail to add a new email address or Add Phone to add a new phone number. The website will walk you through adding the new contact info. 4. The website will send a verification code to the new contact. You must enter this code on the website to authorize the contact. 5. When the new contact is saved, go to Settings > Manage Notifications. 6. Open the Billing section and use the green bar at the top to choose if you want the new contact to be added to one account or all accounts. Then find the notification(s) you wish to add a new phone number or email to. Open the corresponding drop-down menu and click on the new contact. All phones or emails receiving the notification should have a check mark next to them. 7. Scroll to the bottom of the section and click Save.

SmartHub Mobile App

1. Log into your SmartHub mobile app. 2. Tap the menu button in the top-left corner and choose Settings. 3. Tap Contact Methods. Under Add a New Contact Method, tap Phone or Email. The app will walk you through adding the new contact. 4. The website will send a verification code to the new contact. You must enter this code on the website to authorize the contact. 5. When the new contact is saved, tap the menu button again. Choose Settings > Manage Notifications. 6. Open the Billing section and choose if you want the new contact to be added to one account or all accounts. Then find the notification(s) you wish to add a new phone number or email to. Tap Manage Contacts. Make sure each phone number or email address you want to receive the notification is toggled on (with the dot on the right side of the slider). 7. Tap Save.

Data Privacy Tariff

The Member-Customer Data Privacy Tariff details how and why we collect and use your personal information and account data, as well as your rights and responsibilities related to that information. The tariff addresses circumstances under which we can disclose your data to cooperative agents and contractors and their responsibility to provide the same level of confidentiality, privacy, and security practices and procedures that we employ; your right to access, share, and amend your personal information and account data; and notification requirements. You can view the Member-Customer Data Privacy Tariff in full at teammidwest.com. If you have questions or would like a printed copy, please contact us by telephone at 800.492.5989 or email at info@teammidwest.com.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Rural Michigan Pickleball By Christopher Mulder, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member

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.

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. 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

LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD Well-Connect captures energy from your well water to heat (and cool) your home and eliminates the need to burn wood. HOURS OF LABOR TONS OF HARMFUL EMISSIONS LOW INDOOR AIR QUALITY UNEVEN HEAT DISTRIBUTION HEAT FOR $13/MBTU NO AIR CONDITIONING

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If you have a well and are heating with propane, fuel oil, electric or wood, your current heating and cooling cost is likely greater than it would be to fully finance and heat & cool with a Well-Connect.

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