Both of these devices create hot air, but which uses less power?
Space Heater (high) 1,500 watts
7 Series Geothermal Heat Pump 900 watts1
WaterFurnace—The smartest way to heat and cool your home. You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy. A WaterFurnace geothermal heat pump taps into the stored solar energy in your yard to provide savings up to 70% on heating, cooling, and hot water. It uses less power than a typical space heater—and it won’t singe the hair on your legs. Geothermal is a smart investment in your family’s comfort. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today and find out how much you can save by switching to geothermal.
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Portage
Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield
Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com
Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com
A lger Delta Electric: up to $2,000
C h erryland Electric: up to $2,500
Cloverland: up to $6,275
Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000
Homeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750
P resque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op : up to $4,750
Thumb Electric: up to $2,000
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark
EDITOR: Christine Dorr
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird
RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman
COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR:
Emily Haines Lloyd
PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.
Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.
POSTMASTER:
Send all UAA to CFS.
ASSOCIATION OFFICERS:
Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, president and CEO.
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358
editor@countrylines.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.
The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
MI CO-OP Community
RECIPE CONTEST
See details on page 10. Smoothies & Shakes, due Feb. 1; Mushrooms, due March 1 Win a $100 bill credit!
GUEST COLUMN
See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published!
MYSTERY PHOTO
See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
6 FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE COFFEE TABLE
Michigan Photographer Tyler Leipprandt unveils MIconic: a stunning collection of aerial photography masterpieces.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Soups and Stews: The perfect comfort food.
14 FROM THE U.P. TO THE WORLD
Pine Mountain Ski Jump is widely regarded as one of the best ski jumping hills globally and hosts the FIS Continental Cup.
18 GUEST COLUMN
A Family Quilt: Love and precious memories inspired a HomeWorks member to complete a project her grandmother had started.
Portland office/Mail payments to:
7973 E. Grand River Ave.
Portland, MI 48875
Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310
Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.
Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232
Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875
Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls)
Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740
HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org
District 2 — Jim Stebbins 7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 517-930-8132 • jstebbins@homeworks.org
District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org
District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org
District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org
District 6 — Dave Livermore 8060 W. Airline Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-289-3019 • dlivermore@homeworks.org
District 7 — Shirley Sprague, Secretary-Treasurer 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org
HomeWorks Employees Embrace The Co-op Spirit Through Volunteer Work
By Angel McCliggott, Chief Relationship Officer
As we begin a new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on what, to me, was one of HomeWorks’ proudest accomplishments of 2024: the continued success and growing reach of our Employee Community Engagement Volunteer Program.
Three years ago, we formed an employee community engagement committee at your Cooperative with the objective of developing a program that would give our employees the opportunity to embrace Cooperative Principle #7: Concern for Community. After some thoughtful consideration of how best to achieve that goal, the idea for our employee volunteer program was born.
As always with a new program such as this, we didn’t know what to expect when we launched the initiative in February 2022. We hoped for buy-in, but to be honest, we thought it might take some time and prodding for the program to really take off. Boy, were we wrong! Right from the start, our employees blew us away with their selfless commitment to serving the people of our service area. Since then, their enthusiasm and dedication has only grown with each new year of the program.
I am so proud to report to you that between September 2023 and August 2024, our employees served an incredible 4,977 volunteer hours making a difference in our service area! Notably, over 75% of our workforce participated in the program over the past year, volunteering their time to such meaningful causes as coaching youth sports, serving at church, working at local nonprofits, and representing HomeWorks at career fairs, local parades, and local community events. Remarkably, our 2024 Volunteer of the Year, Propane Operations Manager Neal Swain, volunteered over 400 hours last year! I am continually amazed by the generosity and selfless spirits of the talented professionals serving you at your Co-op.
Now, a few months into our fourth program year, we’re finding that our employees’ volunteerism is continuing to snowball, as good deeds tend to do. More and more team members are participating in the program, and they’re asking us for more and more volunteer opportunities. That has prompted us to host more blood drives and giving events at our Co-op offices, and continuously seek out new volunteer opportunities to give our employees even more chances to make an impact. Plus, other co-ops across the state are considering following in our footsteps and launching similar programs of their own!
In retrospect, we shouldn’t have been so surprised by how well our volunteer program took off. As a member-owned, not-for-profit Cooperative, our employees live and work right here in the communities we serve, and they truly care about improving the lives of the members of our service area. That’s the “Cooperative Difference” in action, and I’m so proud to be a part of it.
If your organization has a need for volunteers in our service area, let us know by calling Human Resource Coordinator Peyton Frewen at 517-647-1293.
OSCEOLA CLARE
MECOSTA
MONTCALM
Fiber Internet vs. Other Technologies: The Key Differences And Why The Type Of Fiber Network Offered By HomeWorks Connect Reigns Supreme
To help you navigate the bewildering world of internet technologies, let’s break down the key differences between the three most commonly talked about offerings and explain why fiber internet is the clear winner for most users.
Fiber Internet
Fiber internet is the fastest and most reliable internet technology available today. It uses light signals to transmit data through tiny glass tubes at incredible speeds over long distances, which makes it great for remote locations.
The physical cables required for this technology are sturdy and flexible, which makes them unaffected by weather or interference, in turn making fiber an extremely reliable internet connection.
Fiber offers symmetrical speeds, meaning you can download and upload at the same high speed. It can handle multiple devices and provides low latency, making it perfect for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. With nearly unlimited bandwidth, fiber ensures a smooth and efficient internet experience directly to your home.
5G Wireless Internet
5G is a wireless cellular technology that offers faster internet speeds than traditional technologies like DSL. While 5G providers claim to reach speeds up to 1 Gbps, it’s generally slower and less reliable than fiber internet, with speeds between 100-300 Mbps. 5G speeds can fluctuate drastically due to network congestion, distance from the cell tower, and environmental factors such as weather, trees, or the construction of buildings that might not even be near your home impacting the quality of service you’re receiving.
Additionally, 5G often comes with data caps and higher latency, which can impact online gaming and video editing. For most users, fiber internet provides a more consistent and superior experience, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and unlimited data.
Why Fiber Internet Beats the Rest
Starlink Satellite Internet
The last commonly considered internet option is Starlink, the brand name of a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX. Starlink, a satellite internet service, offers internet access to remote areas not typically served by traditional broadband.
Starlink uses a network of lowEarth orbit satellites to provide internet connectivity to users. However, Starlink’s performance can be affected by weather conditions and geographical location. While it offers a potential solution for rural areas, its speeds, latency, and reliability may not match the performance of fiber internet.
Let’s briefly review and summarize why fiber internet is far and away your best choice for high-speed internet:
1. High Speeds: Fiber internet provides the fastest and most consistent speeds available, especially for upload-heavy activities like video conferencing, online gaming, or content creation.
2. Reliability: Fiber’s cables are durable, flexible, and not subject to interference from objects like buildings or trees.
3. Unlimited Bandwidth: Fiber can handle more devices from more users and heavier internet traffic simultaneously for streaming TV and movies, video calling, gaming, and other common online activities than 5G or Starlink.
4. Low Latency: Fiber offers the lowest latency, which is crucial for real-time applications like gaming, video conferencing, and voice-over-internet calls. Neither 5G nor Starlink can match the ultra-low latency of fiber.
In short, fiber is the gold standard of reliable, high-speed internet. Should you have any questions, or if you would like to learn more about how fiber can make life online more pleasant for your family or business, feel free to reach out to us by calling 800-668-8413 or emailing us at internet@homeworks.org!
From the Classroom to the Coffee Table
Tyler Leipprandt Releases MIconic
By Emily Haines Lloyd
Back in 2019, Tyler Leipprandt was balancing life as a teacher with a side hustle in drone photography—primarily in real estate. Fast forward to today, and he’s still fi nding his balance—only now, it’s while dangling from helicopters, capturing Michigan’s most iconic landscapes from above.
A Leap of Faith
Leipprandt’s shift from teaching to full-time photography wasn’t a decision made lightly. Like so many, his life was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced him to juggle the demands of returning to the classroom while expanding his photography business. Soon, managing both became unsustainable. In a bold move, Leipprandt sold his house in Bad Axe, left his teaching job, and relocated to Traverse City to pursue photography full-time as Michigan Sky Media.
“It was daunting,” Leipprandt reflected. “Leaving a stable job with benefits to do something on my own wasn’t easy. But with my family’s support, I was dedicated to making it work.”
With hard work and perseverance, Leipprandt not only survived but thrived. His business expanded beyond real estate photography into landscapes and aerial shots of major sporting events. His now-famous “Dangle Series”—photographs captured while he’s suspended
from helicopters—cemented his reputation as a daring and talented photographer. In just four years, he built a notable client base that includes Pure Michigan, the State of Michigan, and the Baltimore Ravens.
A Passion for Aviation and
Michigan’s Landscapes
Aviation has always been a passion for Leipprandt, stemming from a family love of air shows and his sister’s service in the Air Force. This enthusiasm for flight led him to capture stunning stadium fl yovers and large sporting events. His most iconic photo, taken at the Rose Bowl with a B-2 bomber soaring overhead, perfectly encapsulates his love for both sports and aviation.
“When I saw a Rose Bowl fl yover photo from years ago, I knew I had to capture it for myself.” Leipprandt shared. “There’s something special about the roar of a fl yover—it’s exhilarating, and it brings together my love for service, sports, and photography.”
The Making of ‘MIconic’
Leipprandt’s dream of creating a professional coffee table book began with a homemade project. “My wife and I made our fi rst book online, and we sold 100 copies,” he recalled. “It was a fun project, but I knew I wanted to do something on a more professional level.”
This opportunity emerged after a Traverse City newspaper featured his Rose Bowl photo, leading to connections with a publisher. By February 2023, Leipprandt was working on “MIconic,” a book that took nine months to complete and was released this fall.
“MIconic” is structured regionally, beginning in Michigan’s Thumb, where Leipprandt’s photography journey started. Each chapter includes one to two backstories, giving readers insight into the photos and the moments behind them. “I wanted the book to be engaging and interactive,” Leipprandt explained. “Those stories and connections have shaped my path.”
For Leipprandt, photography goes beyond capturing beautiful images. It’s about the people he meets and the stories tied to each shot. “It’s not always about the photo itself,” he said. “It’s about how the moment happened, who you’re with, and the memories that come from those experiences.”
“It’s not always about the photo itself. It’s about how the moment happened, who you’re with, and the memories that come from those experiences.”
Save Energy & Money in 2025
HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative is here to help residential and commercial members access savings in the new year! The Energy Optimization program offers rebates for energy-efficient upgrades that allow you to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and prioritize comfort in your home or business.
Residential Rebates
Enjoy upgraded equipment in your home while reducing energy use and costs. The rebates shown below are just a few of those offered to our residential members in 2025. Visit homeworks.org/eo for a full list of Energy Optimization rebate amounts, requirements, and applications.
Business & Agribusiness Rebates
A more efficient business is a smarter business! The Energy Optimization program allows business owners to access savings and resources to improve energy efficiency (and your bottom line!). Below are just a few of the rebates available to our commercial members. Visit homeworks.org/eo for all 2025 rebate amounts and applications.
Clothes Washer
Induction Range/Stove
Incandescent, Halogen, and
Signage Lighting
Low-Energy Livestock Waterer or Fountain
Low-Speed Fans (HVLS)
Exterior Occupancy Sensor with Daylight Sensor Farm Energy Audit
CUSTOM
For projects that may not fit into the standard prescriptive measures, custom rebates are available for the installation of unique energyefficient equipment at your business.
HISTORICAL TREASURES
1. MOST VOTES Mighty Mac. Alyssa Beebe, Shepherd
2. The De Zwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, Michigan. Rick Bushong, Portland
3. The bridge of the USS Edson. This Vietnam War-era naval destroyer is berthed in Midland and is open to tours. Jordan Smith, Portland
4. My husband Mike Bayless after touring the Cathedral of Notre Dame in 2017, two years before the fire that caused the collapse of the spire and part of its roof. Notre Dame was closed in 2019 due to the fire but reopened in December 2024. Casie Bayless, Portland
5. Tractor of yesteryear. Denny Crosby, Portland
6. Can’t get any further south in the U.S. than this! Mika Veenema, Lakeview
7. Michigan State Capitol and a beautiful sunrise. Kathy LaFleur, Eagle
Submit Your “Sunrise to Sunset” Photos By Jan. 25! The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Photos can be submitted through Jan. 25 to be featured in our March issue.
To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/photocontest
Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2025, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2025 HomeWorks bill!
Our 2024 winners are: Holly Bercot-Holmes of Barryton, Natalie Merritt of Portland, Sandy Miller-Keeler of Stanton, and Shanda Reichert of Blanchard.
SOUPS & STEWS
EASY CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
Chris McAfee, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op
1 tablespoon olive or avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion, fi nely chopped
1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can diced fi re-roasted tomatoes, undrained
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles
2 cups shredded, cooked chicken
2 cups chicken broth
1 (1- to 1.3-ounce) taco seasoning mix packet, mild or medium
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
Toppings:
• shredded cheese of choice
• sour cream, optional
• corn chips, such as Fritos
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the oil and onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until onions are translucent. Add the corn, beans, tomatoes, green chiles, chicken, broth, taco seasoning, and cumin. Stir well and bring heat to boiling. Turn heat to medium and cook for about 15 minutes to combine fl avors, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, add lime juice, and stir. Serve soup in bowls with desired toppings. Serves 6. Can easily double recipe.
GRANDMA’S POTATO SOUP
Deborah Lull, Midwest Energy
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow or white onion, chopped
4 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
6 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cups chicken broth or stock
6 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose fl our
¹⁄4 teaspoon salt
¹⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
1¹⁄2 cups milk
1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup cubed, cooked ham
5 green onions, chopped, optional
In a large skillet, add the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and stir. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, in another medium skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the milk and stir constantly until it starts to thicken. Add the cream of chicken soup and ham. Stir until completely mixed. Once the potatoes are tender, transfer the thickened mixture to the vegetables. Stir and cook until completely heated. Ladle into bowls and top with chopped green onions. Serve immediately.
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add mushrooms, onions, celery, and carrots. Cook and stir until tender. Stir in fl our. Stir in the broth, salt, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour the vegetable and broth mixture into a blender or food processor with ¹⁄2 cup lobster meat. Cover and process until smooth. Return to saucepan and stir in half-and-half, white wine, and remaining lobster. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently until thickened, about 30 minutes. Garnish with lobster meat and fresh parsley.
SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW
Ruth Armbrustmacher, HomeWorks Tri-County
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
¹⁄4 cup fl our
¹⁄2 teaspoon salt
¹⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
¹⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 onion, chopped
1¹⁄2 cups beef broth
3 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 (10-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Place beef in crockpot. In a small bowl, mix together the fl our, salt, and black pepper. Pour over meat, and stir to coat. Stir in the garlic powder, bay leaf, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, onion, beef broth, and potatoes. Cover and cook on low for 10–12 hours. Remove the bay leaf, add the frozen vegetables, and stir until warmed. Combine the cornstarch and water and add to stew to thicken. Serve.
2025 HomeWorks Board Elections
Districts 1, 5, And 7 To Hold Director Elections This Year
HomeWorks members in districts 1, 5, and 7 will carry out one of the most important duties of a cooperative’s membership this year when they elect a director to represent them on the Co-op board.
In District 1, current director and board vice-chairperson John Lord of Leslie has announced that he will seek re-election for another three-year term. Director Lord was first elected to the board in 2016. In District 5, current director Theresa Sopocy of Bannister has also indicated that she will be seeking re-election this year. Director Sopocy was appointed to the board in January 2023 and elected in May 2023 to serve the remainder of the current term. And in District 7, incumbent director and board secretary-treasurer Shirley Sprague of Barryton will also run for re-election this year. Director Sprague was first elected to the board in 2016.
Members in districts 1, 5, and 7 who are interested in running for their district’s
director position should contact their district’s nominating committee by Feb. 5. Candidates may also be nominated via a petition signed by at least 25 members within their district. Petitions must be turned in to the nominating committee by Feb. 20.
District 1 includes members in Eaton, Ingham, and Jackson counties. District 5 is comprised of members in Gratiot and Saginaw counties, plus members in Bingham, Duplain, and Greenbush townships in Clinton County and Bloomer, Crystal, and Evergreen townships in Montcalm County. District 7 includes members in Mecosta and Osceola counties.
The nominating committee in each district consists of the district’s officers, elected by members at the district meeting held in the previous May. Each committee is required by the Co-op’s bylaws to nominate at least one candidate on or before Feb. 5. Names of nominees will be posted at the Cooperative’s offices and at HomeWorks.org by Feb. 28.
Interested In Seeking A Board Seat?
The job of a HomeWorks board member is to help set policies and make decisions that guide the direction of the Cooperative, while effectively representing the members of his or her district. Directors are expected to attend regular monthly and other special meetings of the board or committees of the board, along with relevant state and national association meetings and director training programs. They are also expected to study data and other information presented to the board in order to stay fully informed on matters affecting the Co-op.
If you are a member of district 1, 5, or 7 and you are interested in running for a HomeWorks board seat this year, Article VII, Section 2 of the Cooperative’s bylaws (available at HomeWorks.org) states that you must be an individual member of the Co-op in good standing, at least 21 years old, residing in the district which you are to represent, and a U.S. citizen.
To become or remain a director, the bylaws state the candidate must have the capacity to enter into legally binding contracts; comply with standards of conduct as laid out in the bylaws; and meet all reasonable conflict of interest qualifications found in Article VII, Section 3. Also, a candidate shall not have been convicted of or pled guilty to a felony or misdemeanor crime involving issues of moral character within the 10 years immediately prior to becoming a director.
If you meet these qualifications and would like to be nominated for the district 1, 5, or 7 board seat, contact your district nominating committee, listed on this page, or call HomeWorks Tri-County Electric at 517-647-1272 to request a nominating petition.
Election Timeline
Feb. 5 Nominating committee submits candidate names to Co-op
Feb. 15 Candidate credentials reviewed, names posted at Co-op
Feb. 20 Nominations by petition (25 signatures) due at Co-op
Feb. 28 Final candidate list posted at Co-op
Early April Paper ballots and electronic voting instructions mailed in Michigan Country Lines magazine to members in election districts
Meeting in Portland on Oct. 28, 2024, your board of directors:
• Reviewed and approved the proposed 2025 capital and operating budget for the Cooperative’s subsidiary, Tri-Co Services, Inc.
• Reviewed the Cooperative’s forensic audit report, presented by third-party certified public accounting firm Eide Bailly, LLP.
• Unanimously voted to refrain from making a capital credit retirement in 2024, in the best interest of the Co-op’s financial condition and long-range financial management plan.
• Authorized management to enter into a long-term loan agreement with the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (CFC), with the aggregate amount of the loan not to exceed $25 million.
• Reviewed and approved management’s proposed strategic plan for 2025.
• Learned there were 118 new members in September.
Meeting in Blanchard on Nov. 25, 2024, your board of directors:
• Reviewed and approved the proposed 2025 capital and operating budgets of both HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative and HomeWorks Connect.
• Approved the write-off of accounts receivable totaling $110,898 for 2023.
• Learned there were 133 new members in October.
Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings
The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on Jan. 27 and 9 a.m. on Feb. 24 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.
People Fund Provides Hope To Local Families In Their Time Of Need
Meeting remotely on Nov. 13, 2024, our People Fund board made five grants totaling $5,900, including:
• $2,500 to the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Grand Ledge, to support rent and utility assistance for clients in need;
• $1,500 to the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Charlotte, to support temporary housing and utility assistance for clients in need;
• $900 to an Ionia County family, to help cover utility bills;
• $500 to a Barry County family, to help cover utility bills; and
• $500 to the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum, to purchase snack packs for Kids Club.
Board
Votes Not To Retire Capital Credits In 2024
As a HomeWorks member, your capital credits are your equity in the Cooperative you own. Our bylaws call for us to use capital credits as operating funds to build and maintain your Co-op, and then return them to you through a refund at a later date, when your board determines that the financial condition of the Co-op permits us to do so.
In October 2024, your board voted not to make a general capital credit retirement in 2024, as they deemed it would be in the best interest of the financial health of the Co-op to maintain the funds as operating funds at this time. Your capital credits remain allocated to you as part of your member equity in the Co-op, and they will be returned to you in future years as finances permit. So far, we’ve returned nearly $25 million in capital credits to you and your neighbors!
How to Apply for a Tri-County Electric People Fund Grant
The Tri-County Electric People Fund provides grants to individuals and organizations in the Coop’s service area for food, shelter, clothing, health, and other humane needs, or for programs or services that benefit a significant segment of a community. Write to 7973 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875, for an application form and grant guidelines, or visit the People Fund page at HomeWorks.org. Note: Applications must be received by Jan. 14 for the January meeting or by Feb. 25 for the March meeting.
FROM THE U.P. TO THE WORLD
Pine Mountain’s FIS Continental Cup Journey Continues
By Emily Haines Lloyd
Nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, far from the glitz of the Alps or the Rockies, lies Pine Mountain—a place where world-class athletes soar, and a small-town community comes together in a way that rivals the most famous ski venues.
As Iron Mountain gears up to host the 2025 Pine Mountain FIS Continental Cup Feb. 21–23, this rural Midwest town is proving once again that it doesn’t take global prestige to create an unforgettable event—just heart, dedication, and one heck of a tailgate.
A PROUD HERITAGE:
Pine Mountain and the FIS Continental Cup
Pine Mountain Ski Jump is widely regarded as one of the best ski jumping hills globally. You read that right—globally. It is one of a handful of ski jumps in North America to host an FIS-accredited Continental Cup (formerly known as the International Ski Federation, but now called the International Ski & Snowboard Federation.) This event serves as a critical stepping stone for athletes looking to compete in the FIS World Cup and the Winter Olympics, drawing athletes from all over the world.
The Kiwanis Ski Club, a nonprofit organization founded in the 1930s, has nurtured this reputation and takes on the daunting task of organizing and executing this world-class event.
A
WORLD-CLASS
EVENT: Tailgating and Spectators
In addition to the high-quality competition, Pine Mountain is home to one of the largest tailgating events in the Midwest. Every year, approximately 10,000 spectators flock to the site, with tailgating spots selling out quickly. Some spots have been reserved by the same families for generations, creating a sense of continuity and tradition that can be felt the moment you enter the grounds. Tailgaters deck out their spaces with BBQ grills and flags from participating countries, providing an international and festive atmosphere that’s as much a part of the event as the ski jumping itself.
This unique combination of top-tier athleticism and community engagement makes Pine Mountain an unforgettable stop on the Continental Cup circuit, as well as a welcome contributor to the local economy, with local hotels, restaurants, and shops benefitting from the influx of visitors.
“The economic impact of this event is huge, bringing people from all over the country,” said Kiwanis Ski Club member and volunteer Daniel Freeman. “Iron Mountain and Kingsford are proud to host this event and share our piece of the U.P. with the world.”
THE
HEART AND SOUL:
Volunteers and Community Spirit
What truly makes the FIS Continental Cup at Pine Mountain special, however, is the incredible effort of its volunteers. The event might not have the glitzy infrastructure of more famous ski resorts, but it has something that’s arguably more valuable: a dedicated group of volunteers whose hard work and passion allow the event to match the professionalism of any other competition on the global stage.
The Kiwanis Ski Club, with fewer than 100 active members, organizes and runs the event, supported by a larger network of community volunteers. These individuals handle everything, from shoveling steps and icing tracks to measuring the depth and pitch of the snow on the jump. Volunteers brave harsh winter conditions to keep the event running smoothly and ensure that Pine Mountain Ski Jump meets the high standards set by the FIS, giving athletes the kind of professional experience they expect at any international competition.
“We have a wonderful history of ski jumping in our community,” said Freeman. “The way our volunteers show up and execute at the highest level is a testament to our spirit of volunteerism.”
This is not the Swiss Alps, but the Continental Cup at Pine Mountain stands shoulder to shoulder with other renowned events—in large part due to the communities who show up, give their all, and literally help athletes fl y.
THE POWER GRID MUST ADAPT
To Support A Clean Energy Future
power plant generates electricity
THIS IS HOW ELECTRICITY GETS TO YOUR HOME
transmission lines carry electricity long distances
transformer steps up voltage for transmission
distribution lines carry electricity to houses
neighborhood transformer steps down voltage
transformers on poles step down electricity before it enters your home
So, how do we prepare the grid to integrate large-scale renewable energy and ensure reliable electricity to your home?
WE NEED STORAGE
We could store traditional fossil fuels. Obviously, we can't store weather, but what about electricity?
The grid operates in real time
The power grid operates in real time, supplying more electricity when demand surges and scaling back when demand decreases.
Renewable energy is intermittent
Renewable energy sources depend on weather conditions. Can we store it? Not effectively with today's technology.
Storage technology must improve
Present state-of-the-art battery technology lasts only two hours. We need storage technology to evolve before renewables can provide reliable electricity to all.
WE NEED MORE TRANSMISSION LINES
We used to move fuel to plants. Now we need to move plants to the weather—and build lines to carry the energy to end-consumers.
PRESENT
Most electricity today doesn’t travel very far because, historically, power plants were built close to cities with high electricity demand.
FUTURE
Electricity will need to travel farther because clean energy sources are often situated in remote locations, like wind in the plains and sun in the southwest. We need to build more transmission lines to transport clean energy farther to homes and businesses.
Did you know?
By the 2030s, we need to build so many new transmission lines that, if strung end to end, they would reach the moon!
So what do we do right now?
We are collaborating with our power supplier, statewide association, and fellow electric cooperatives in Michigan to advance innovative ideas. One of those ideas is to install a safe underwater transmission line connecting Michigan to Wisconsin. Think of it as a regional superhighway delivering reliable, clean, affordable, and controllable energy to the entire upper Midwest. Learn more at wolverinepowercooperative.com/lake-michigan-connector.
Source: https://www.gatesnotes.com/Transmission
APPLY FOR TRIP O F A LIF E TIME
JUNE
HAT IS YOUTH TOUR?
• An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., paid for by HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative.
• A week of visiting historic monuments, touring world-class museums, and meeting elected officials.
• Developing life-long friendships with delegates from across the country!
H OW TO APPLY
• Applicants must be a sophomore or junior in high school.
• You and your parents, guardian, or grandparents must be served by HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative.
• Apply Now: Scan the QR code or visit www.cooperativeyouthtour.com.
• Application deadline is Jan. 27, 2025.
Notice to Members of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative—Data Privacy Policy
The HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative Board of Directors has adopted a policy governing the collection, use, and disclosure of member account information and usage data. A full copy of the Data Privacy Policy can be found at HomeWorks.org.
If you would like a hard copy of the Data Privacy Policy, please call our office at 800-562-8232.
Where In Michigan Is
This?
A Family Quilt
Mary Ellen Wynes, a HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative member
A single mom and career woman years before it was common, my grandma never had time for hobbies. She retired in 1957 at age 70 and filled some suddenly empty hours cutting hundreds of small fabric circles to make a yo-yo quilt, a popular project with crafters that year.
MYSTERY PHOTO
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Identify the correct location of the photo above by Jan. 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community
Nov./Dec. 2024 WINNER!
Our Mystery Photo winner is Joseph Crites, an Alger Delta Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Mini Mac Bridge in St. Louis, Mich. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.
Struck with the enormity of the task of basting the edge of each circle, then pulling the thread to gather it into a still smaller “yo-yo,” she soon elicited the assistance of everyone in the family. No one escaped! Shortly after being seated for a visit, guests were handed a piece with a prethreaded needle and instructed to “make a yo-yo.” When we needed “chips” for a poker game during a family vacation, she produced a wrinkled paper bag full of yo-yos, which worked well.
Years fl ew by, and the yo-yos were forgotten until my grandma passed at 99. When my mom discovered the battered bags, their contents as brightly vibrant as ever, they were no longer hundreds of individual circles, but they had been meticulously stitched together into diamond shapes. They were given to me with the request, “Do something with Grandma’s yo-yos.”
Guided more by nostalgia than skill, I pieced that fabric of my life
together into a quilt, remembering as I stitched, the lives of others who were a part of its creation. The last Christmas before my mother’s death, my parents’ departure from our home after a visit was delayed by car trouble. Given this unexpected bonus day together, I asked if she would teach me how to embroider so that I could put the fi nishing touch on Grandma’s quilt. Together we completed the project by stitching on the border: “Created by Ruby B. MacLean 1952 and Mary Ellen Wynes 1993.”
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