January/February 2024
MICHIGAN
COUNTRY LINES Thumb Electric Cooperative
WINTER THUNDERLAND I-500 Snowmobile Race Welcomes Thrill-Seekers to the UP
Broadband Internet Year in Review
Photo Contest Winners
Understanding the Electric Grid
WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT1
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CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
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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
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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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tecmi.coop /thumbelectric @thumbelectric
THUMB ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2231 Main Street Ubly, MI 48475-0157 1-800-327-0166 or 989-658-8571 E-mail: tec@tecmi.coop
BOARD OF DIRECTORS HURON COUNTY
Broadband Internet 2023 Year in Review
Randall Dhyse, Treasurer District 1 • 989-658-6013 Craig Osentoski, Director District 2 • 989-658-6003 Erica Peruski, Director District 3 • 989-658-6004 SANILAC COUNTY Kim Nunn, Vice President District 1 • 989-658-6005 Mike Briolat, Secretary District 2 • 989-658-6006
Duane Kursinsky, Director District 3 • 989-658-6007 TUSCOLA COUNTY Louis Wenzlaff, Director District 1 • 989-658-6008
Jonathan Findlay, President District 2 • 989-658-6010 Matt Sommer, Director District 3 • 989-658-6012
Brad Essenmacher, General Manager Marketing and Communications: Mitch Hirn, CCC, mhirn@tecmi.coop
PAYMENT STATIONS Huron County Bad Axe—Northstar Bank Pigeon—Northstar Bank Tuscola County Akron—Northstar Bank Caro—Northstar Bank Mayville—Mayville State Bank Millington—Mayville State Bank Thumb Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
HURON
TUSCOLA
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SANILAC
Brad Essenmacher, General Manager
s we welcome in the new year, a lot has changed in the last 12 months at Thumb Electric. In January of 2023, we had just passed the 400 number in Fiber-to-the-Home internet subscribers. Fast-forward to today, we have about 2,000 subscribers (estimated as of the November writing). In January of 2023, only members served out of the Kingston Substation had Fiber-to-theHome internet available to them. Today, members served out of Millington, Vassar, Columbia, Decker, and Austin Substations also have it available, along with many nonmembers in Tuscola County, where Rural Development Opportunity Fund (RDOF) grant dollars ($22.5 million) were awarded to TEC.
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In 2024, we are projecting that members served out of Ubly, Kinde, Sigel, Delaware, and Owendale Substations will get service at some point during the year. Along with that, many nonmember areas in parts of Sanilac County and Huron County RDOF areas will have service available. This effort will be in conjunction with another opportunity awarded to TEC in the form of a Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Network (ROBIN) grant. TEC will be awarded up to $6.5 million in matching dollars, which will help bring Fiber-tothe-Home internet to more members and nonmembers in the Thumb area. Our subsidiary company, Air Advantage, is also seeing growth in fiber optic internet services, both in residential and commercial offerings. In past years, Air Advantage was awarded grant funding to help bring high-speed broadband to some rural communities, and the growth in the wired service areas is steady. But wireless internet, as predicted, is seeing a loss of customers. As TEC and Air Advantage have built preferred Fiber-to-the-Home and Business networks, wireless demand has naturally been greatly reduced. This trend is also true in areas where other fiber providers, who also won RDOF grant dollars, have built out their networks. The speed and reliability of fiber optic internet is nearly impossible to match with wireless technology. Moving forward, you will likely see fewer wireless services from Air Advantage and more wired fiber optic services. The value and reliability are far superior. Looking forward beyond 2024, we anticipate finishing our Fiber-to-the-Home construction to member areas in 2025. The nonmember areas will likely stretch out a year or more beyond that, and major construction will likely slow considerably by 2027, where smaller projects and maintenance will be more of our day-to-day activity. Stay tuned. Estimates and projections are just that and are always subject to change. Have a safe and happy 2024!
Save the date!
ANNUAL MEETING SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2024
This year’s Annual Meeting will again be held at the Octagon Barn near Gagetown. The meeting will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, with registration starting at 9 a.m. and the business meeting starting at 10 a.m. You will be listening to updates on cooperative improvements, and the results of the director elections will be announced. As always, there will be entertainment for the kids with balloons, face painting, bucket truck rides, and more! When the meeting concludes, lunch will be served and you will be able to enjoy the Octagon Barn sites and exhibits.
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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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
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2023
PHOTO CONTEST
WINNERS Lauren Siver (March/April)
Walter Reimann (July/August)
Kristen Daniels (May/June)
Michael Popiel (September/ October)
TEC awarded four members with a $50 bill credit for being selected in a random drawing of all photo contest entries that appeared in Michigan Country Lines in 2023. Thank you to the many TEC members who participated. Members are welcome to send in photos for our 2024 contest.
The Great Outdoors
PHOTO CONTEST
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Enter for a chance to win a $50 energy bill credit!
Submit Your “Pets” Photos by Jan. 20!
Submit your “Pets” photos by Jan. 20 for the March/April issue! Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote! The photo receiving the most votes will be printed in an issue of Country Lines along with some of our other favorites.
Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit!
To enter the contest, visit tecmi.coop/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 into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your December 2024 bill.
MOST VOTES 1. Fall reflections. Tamara Ley 2. Elk in Rocky Mountains, Estes Park, Colorado. Lisa Weiss 3. Sisters, woods, and winter fun. Robert Daniels 4. Sugar beet buddies. Jennifer Booms 5. Loving the fresh air. Debra Polega 6. Beautiful light snowfall. Ona Warchuck
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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
Energy Waste Reduction Rebate Program 2024 Heating/ Air Conditioning Rebates Central Air Conditioning System (14 SEER+): $200 Air Source Heat Pump w/ Electric Furnace: $1,500 Air Source Heat Pump w/ Fossil Fuel: $1,000 Mini-Split Heat Pump: $1,000 Ground Source Heat Pump (EER 17+): $2,000 Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
2024 Battery-Powered Equipment Rebates Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers: $100–$500
Visit TEC’s website for more information at www.tecmi.coop/rebates.
Battery-Powered Lawn Care Equipment: $25-$100 Battery-Powered Power Washer: Up to $300 Battery-Powered Snow Blower: Up to $300
Notice To Members Of Data Privacy Policy
Notice To Members Of Thumb Electric Cooperative
The Thumb Electric Cooperative Board of Directors has adopted a policy governing the collection, use, and disclosure of member account information and usage data.
Tariff Changes Effective Feb. 1, 2024
A full copy of the Data Privacy Policy can be found in Part V of Thumb Electric’s Tariff Book, Sheet C-24.00, https://www.tecmi.coop/tec-electricrate-book If you would like a hard copy of the Data Privacy Policy, call our office at 1-800-327-0166 or contact us at tecmi.coop/tec-contact-form.
12 JANUARY 2024
The Thumb Electric Cooperative Board of Directors acted on and adopted revisions to the cooperative’s tariffs at a special open board meeting held on Nov. 21, 2023, in accordance with P.A. 167: Revised tariffs include D-4.00, D-5.00, D-6.00, D-7.00, D-8.00, D-9.00, D-10.00, D-11.00, D-12.01, D-13.00, D-15.00, D-16.00, D-25.00, and D-26.00. For specific details on any Thumb Electric Cooperative tariffs, please call 1-800-327-0166 or visit TEC’s website at tecmi.coop.
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 Thumb Electric Cooperative is part of a 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.
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 Thumb Electric Cooperative 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.
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
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Beware Of Third-Party
If yo onli be s dela Thu thro tecm
If you pay your bill through a thirdparty online payment site (e.g., doxo.com), you may be subject to hidden fees and processing delays. Avoid these risks by paying your Thumb Electric Cooperative bill online through our SmartHub app or our website, tecmi.coop. It’s fast, easy, and free!
Beware Of Other Online Payment Sites
P
aying your Thumb Electric Cooperative bill online is fast, easy, and free when you use our website— tecmi.coop. Beware of hidden fees from other payment websites. Pay your TEC bill online at any time. If you accidentally select another payment website to make your bill payment, you risk possible extra charges and payment processing delays. Make sure our website, with the address as written above, appears before making a payment. Some websites allow visitors to pay their local utility bills with the utility’s name and company logo appearing on the site. Thumb Electric Cooperative is not affiliated with any third-party website that offers utility payment service.
If you pay your Thumb Electric bill on a thirdparty website, you risk: • Extra charges levied by the third party for each transaction on its website. • Delays up to two weeks or more before the payment is posted to your TEC account. For some members, the delay could result in the account being disconnected for nonpayment if payment is not received in time to avoid shutoff. Even if late payment does not result in a shutoff, late payment fees could be charged to the account. Members can avoid these risks by taking advantage of payment options offered directly from their cooperative.
16 JANUARY 2024
Thumb Electric offers several free and convenient payment methods. Choose whatever option works best for you: • AutoPay: Your payment is automatically deducted each month from either your checking or savings account, credit card, or debit card. • SmartHub: Pay with the app or online at tecmi.coop. Make a one-time payment from your checking or savings account, or with a credit card or debit card. • Mail: Send in payment to our Ubly office at 2231 Main St., Ubly, MI 48475. • MoneyGram: Cash option at MoneyGram locations. • Any location of Northstar Bank or Mayville State Bank • PhonePay: Pay at any time by using our automated pay-by-phone service. We accept payment by credit card or checking or savings account over the phone. Simply dial 800-327-0166 or 989-658-8571, then choose option 1 to make a payment. • In person: Ubly office counter, drive-thru, or night deposit dropbox.
Fiber Sign-Up Reminder
T
EC Fiber would like to remind customers of how the sign-up process works for fiber internet. Before you can sign up, you will have to complete the pre-registration process. If you have not yet done so, go to www.tecmi.coop/fiber and enter your home address for service. When you pre-register, make sure you enter an email address that you check regularly. When fiber circuits open, sign-up instructions will be sent to the email address you pre-registered with. We post information for circuit openings on Facebook, but if you do not have a Facebook account, you may miss this update. If you live in an area that has opened for service and haven’t received a notification, please check your email inbox for a message from tecfiber@tecmi.coop. If you do not see an email from us and believe you should have received one, feel free to send an email to the aforementioned email address.
For more information on when your area will receive TEC Fiber internet, please check our Service Area map at www.tecmi.coop/fiber.
Your Clear Advantage for Internet Service
250 Mbps for *
$
77
.50
per month
$
*
1 Gig for
117
.50
per month
*Pricing based on discounts offered by TEC Fiber to TEC members. All TEC members who are also signed up for paperless billing on their electric accounts will receive a discount of $5 per month. An additional discount of $2.50 per month is offered to any customer who prepays their monthly fees 12 months in advance. Prices before discounts are $85 for 250 Mbps and $125 for 1 Gig.
To pre-register, register, or get more information, go to tecmi.coop/fiber or scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17
MI CO-OP Guest Column
Rural Michigan Pickleball By Christopher Mulder, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member
M
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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•
Delivers 90% on average of your home’s heating needs and 100% of your home’s cooling needs.
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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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Financing, 30% tax credit, and rebates up to $2,000 available. AN
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Thumb Electric Cooperative tecmi.coop facebook.com/thumbelectric
No longer required to read your own meter? Want to be environmentally friendly? Would you like to save yourself and your co-op members money?
What a great time to go paperless!
Go Paperless And Win A
$20 BILL CREDIT
One Winner Will Be Chosen Each Month! • All members enrolled in paperless billing are eligible. • Sign up online at tecmi.coop or via SmartHub. • Winners will be announced on TEC’s Facebook page. • Paperless members will receive an email or text letting them know their bill is available to view.