January 2026 Midwest

Midwest Energy & Communications

January 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

T A E R T H E G CHASE R A B E A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART

WE NEED YOUR VOTE on a critical issue for the cooperative.

Information on Pages 4–5

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Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com

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Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 www.tmcmechanicalllc.com

Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southern-michigan/

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Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com

$2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 Westmigeothermal.com Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com

visit us at waterfurnace.com

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

January 2026 Vol. 46, No. 1 /michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.

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Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.

POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, vice-chairman; Mike Furmanski, Alger Delta Cooperative Electric Association, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.

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MI CO-OP Community

6 MICHIGAN’S MAJESTIC CASTLES

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

RECIPE CONTEST

See details on page 10. Rice Dishes, due Feb. 1; Salads with a Twist, 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

Architectural Wonders That Are Rooted in History and Inspired

by Imagination.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Veggie-Loaded Comfort Foods: Wholesome. Hearty. Veggie-Filled.

14 THE GREAT BEAR CHASE:

A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART How This Beloved Event Unites Community, Welcomes the World, and Celebrates the Keweenaw Peninsula’s Winter Magic.

18 GUEST COLUMN

When Business Took Flight: Runci’s Spiraling Entrance into Lowell History.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Welcoming Fiber Customers to the Family

By Clarence “Topper” Barth, Board Chairperson 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.

TECUMSEH SOLUTIONS CENTER 5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

CONTACT US Midwest Energy & Communications 800-492-5989 teammidwest.com Email: info@teammidwest.com BOARD OF DIRECTORS Clarence “Topper” Barth, Chairperson, Three Rivers 269-279-9233 Clarence.Barth@teammidwest.com Dan Bodette, Vice Chairperson, Wauseon 419-344-4015 Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443 Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816 John.Green@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 Jeff Diehl, Union 574-274-6693 Jeffery.Diehl@teammidwest.com PRESIDENT/CEO: Terry Rubenthaler 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.

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JANUARY 2026

I am a lifelong member of Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC). In fact, my family has been part of the cooperative since we first planted roots, figuratively and literally, in 1947. My dad served on the board for many years until I succeeded him in 1993.

I am proud to be part of a communityfirst organization that has proven time and again that we will go where others won’t and invest where others won’t. Every decision I make as a board member, and we make as an organization, is driven by the desire to serve our fellow members and rural neighbors. We don’t serve shareholders from thousands of miles away; we serve the people we see every day in the communities in which we live.

Several years ago, many of you told us that you needed reliable internet because, once again, our area was being ignored by large providers. We listened and committed to building a fiber-optic network to deliver the broadband you needed, while upgrading our electric grid to improve reliability.

It didn’t take us long to discover that the need for reliable internet went far beyond our electric lines. Our neighboring communities were also desperate, with no one to turn to. That’s why we began our extensive fiber network expansion. Today, we serve about 36,000 fiber customers, of whom about 16,000 are not MEC cooperative members. We’re only just getting started.

Our fiber service’s success has been nothing short of astounding. However, it’s led us to a critical crossroads for the cooperative. We need your help.

MEC is considered a tax-exempt cooperative as long as it earns at least 85% of all revenue from services provided to members. However, because our customers who receive only fiber service teammidwest.com

are nonmembers, we will soon fail the IRSmandated 85% test and lose our tax-exempt status. If that happens, MEC will have to pay as much as $20 million in additional income taxes over the next 10 years.

After weighing the options on how to overcome this impending income tax issue, your board of directors decided the easiest and most straightforward way to solve the problem would be to make all fiber-only customers full members of the cooperative. By voting to make these customers members of the cooperative, you will ensure that we will not have to raise prices solely to cover a substantial income tax bill that could otherwise be avoided.

Your vote will enable MEC to continue focusing our financial investments on our services and communities.

This is also a historic opportunity to make our cooperative even stronger, giving us a larger voice to advocate for rural Michigan.

A vote to approve this change is a vote to make your community vibrant, relevant, and sustainable with a cooperative dedicated to putting the needs of rural residents first.

On Jan. 19, you will receive an email from Midwest Energy & Communications Election Coordinator (noreply@directvote.net) to vote to amend our bylaws to incorporate fiber service, which will make fiber-only customers members. Voting ends on Feb. 10. See page 5 for more information.

If you are in a district that also has a board member election, you will also be able to vote on that during that time.

I personally recommend voting for these bylaw changes to ensure the long-term viability and financial strength of our cooperative. Thank you in advance for your help.

Please note: We recommend that you add noreply@directvote.net as an approved sender in your email to ensure you receive the communication. Refer to the support section of your email account for instructions.

/teammidwest

Summary of Proposed Amendments to MEC’s Bylaws 2026 The full red-lined changes will be included on your ballot.

• Update item B under Article 1 Members Section 1 Qualifications and Obligations to “agreeing to purchase from the Cooperative electric energy and/or telecommunications services (collectively, “Services”) as hereinafter specified.”

• Modifies references to “services” throughout the document.

• Updates definition under Section 7 Voting Districts.

• Corrects and clarifies information as needed.

Voting Process

Jan. 19 – Feb. 10

Follow the instruction below. You will also receive an email on Jan. 19 with instructions and the links to vote.

Online 1

2

To cast your vote, access the link below and log in using your unique credentials: directvote.net/mecmi 1. Login: Customer number as displayed on your bill.

If you do not receive a paper bill, you can download one from SmartHub. 2. Passcode: Five-digit billing ZIP code or 6-character ZIP code for Canadian addresses.

SmartHub You can view details and vote by logging in to SmartHub and clicking the “Vote Now” button. Via a web browser (teammidwest.smarthub.coop), the button appears in the upper-right-hand corner of the screen, and on the mobile app, “vote now” appears on the home screen.

OUR MISSION: Delivering first-in-class innovations and solutions where others won’t OUR VISION: Creating vibrant, relevant, sustainable rural communities®

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

Michigan’s Majestic Castles Michigan is home to several stunning castles, each with unique architectural beauty and an equally compelling history, making them fascinating attractions and destinations to explore. These historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage and European architectural influence.

Curwood Castle

Henderson Castle

100 Monroe St., Kalamazoo, MI 49006

5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI 49720

Step into a fairytale romance at Curwood Castle, a public museum and tourist attraction operated by the Owosso Historical Commission. It was constructed in 1922 by author James Oliver Curwood, who styled it after a French Normandy chateau.

The jewel of Kalamazoo is Henderson Castle, a mansion built in 1895 for Frank and Mary Henderson, owners of the Henderson-Ames Company. As a boutique bed & breakfast and event venue, visitors are welcome to dine, unwind, and stay overnight.

Curwood Castle features two turrets, a slate-covered gable roof, and sprightly yellow stucco walls speckled with fieldstones. Situated in a serene setting along the Shiawassee River, the property is part of Curwood Castle Park, which also includes Comstock Cabin and Woodard Paymaster Building.

This 25-room home was constructed in a late Victorian/Queen Anne style, with seven baths and an elevator. The castle’s exterior is a combination of brick and Lake Superior sandstone. It currently boasts a rooftop hot tub, finedining restaurant, spa, and vineyard.

Wander through the whimsical Castle Farms estate in Charlevoix. Developed as a dairy farm in 1918 by Albert Loeb, president of Sears, Roebuck & Co., this world-class property is modeled after the stone castles found in Normandy, France, and serves as a museum, event venue, and wedding site.

Curwood used the castle to entertain guests and as a writing studio until his passing in 1927. In his will, he bequeathed the building to the city of Owosso.

Henderson Castle has a unique draw for not only architecture enthusiasts but also those interested in its supernatural side. The site has attracted attention for alleged hauntings and paranormal activity; it is one of the most talked-about places for ghost stories in Michigan.

After Frank’s death in 1899, Henderson Castle changed hands several times. Over the years, the building was also used as a private residence and apartments.

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Castle Farms

224 Curwood Castle Dr., Owosso, MI 48867

JANUARY 2026

Over the decades, Castle Farms has changed ownership and purpose. At its peak, the farm maintained over 200 prize-winning Holstein-Friesian cattle and dozens of Belgian draft horses. For 20 years, Castle Farms also served as a premier concert venue, hosting familiar headliners such as REO Speedwagon, Tina Turner, and Bon Jovi.

In addition to its original agricultural purpose, the castle-like atmosphere holds an enchanting experience.

In the 2000s, the estate underwent major restoration and a reimagination of the grounds and gardens, incorporating an enchanted forest, a model train track, a hedge maze, and reflection pools. Museum collections include WWI-era items and a Sears Roebuck element featuring items from its historic catalog.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventures to historic castles of Michigan.

From the shores of Lake Charlevoix to the streets of Saginaw and Kalamazoo, Michigan’s castles stand as testaments to imagination, craftsmanship, and community pride. Each structure tells a story—of visionaries who dared to dream big, of eras when elegance met industry, and of modern caretakers who continue to preserve that magic for generations to come.

Castle Museum

Canterbury Castle

500 Federal Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607

2359 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion, MI 48360

The Castle Museum of Saginaw County History is a local history museum with a very distinct appearance. It houses over 150,000 artifacts and highlights the cultural significance and stories of the people who make up the Saginaw region. Some major themes include: early Indigenous Anishinabek, the fur trade, the lumbering era, the Industrial Age, and the Saginaw County Sports Hall of Fame.

Royalty meets rustic at Olde World Canterbury Village in Lake Orion. This fairytale wedding venue, banquet facility, and themed village complex was developed in 1991 by the Stan Aldridge family.

Originally constructed as a U.S. Post Office in 1898, it is now operated by the Historical Society of Saginaw County. Through community efforts and historical advocacy movements, the Castle Museum was rescued from demolition in the 1930s, and eventually, in 1979, the Historical Society began preserving the building as a museum.

The building is characterized by its notable French Renaissance chateau-style architecture. Exhibits provide a comprehensive narrative of the Saginaw region from precolonial times through the lumber boom, industrial enterprises, and modern manufacturing.

The village grounds are framed in a fantasy olde-world Tudor castle aesthetic, with turret structures and cobblestone paths. It hosts familyfriendly and themed events, from holiday celebrations to medieval feasts and Harry Potter dinners.

In 1916, William E. Scripps began a large agricultural undertaking known as Wildwood Farm. He raised award-winning Aberdeen Angus cattle, swine, sheep, and poultry and also established a dairy operation and stables. Many of the historic farm buildings, barns, and cottages were converted into the modern-day specialty shops and retail spaces within Canterbury Village.

Whether you’re drawn by architectural grandeur, local history, or the promise of a fairytale escape, these castles invite you to explore Michigan through a more enchanted lens. Step inside their storied walls, wander their gardens, and experience the majesty that proves you don’t have to cross an ocean to find a little old-world charm—it’s right here in the heart of the Great Lakes State.

Cassondra Scott is a content creator, writer, and social media influencer at Cassondra Wanders—sharing small businesses and sights to see all over the state of Michigan. /cassondrawanders /cassondra.wanders @cassondrawanders @cassondrawanders

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Michigan Customers:

SAVE ENERGY WITH A FREE CUSTOMIZED KIT

Simple upgrades.

Better efficiency.

Yours at no cost.

What if saving energy was as easy as answering a few quick questions? Now it is!

Midwest Energy & Communications is offering members a free customized Energy Saving Kit filled with easy-to-install tools to help lower energy use and reduce strain on the electric grid. Each kit is personalized based on your short online assessment and shipped right to your door.

What’s Inside?* SMART THERMOSTAT Comfort control that saves energy

DOOR WEATHER STRIPPING Seal in comfort, keep drafts out

SHOWER OPTIMIZERS & FAUCET AERATORS Use less hot water, without losing pressure

WATER HEATER PIPE INSULATOR Reduce heat loss, keep water hot *Kits are customized based on responses.

All items may not be included in all kits.

ACT NOW! Kits are limited; complete your online assessment today!

Scan the QR code to access the assessment or visit teammidwest.com/energy-kits This kit is part of the State of Michigan's clean energy requirements and is only available to customers in Michigan.

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JANUARY 2026

Fiber Cup 2025 On Nov. 8, 2025, nine teams went head-to-head at the third annual MEC x SMC Fiber Cup video game tournament, hosted in collaboration with Southwestern Michigan College.

After many close matches and some intense overtime plays, three teams emerged victorious: 1. SCARY AFTERSHOCK (unaffiliated—students hailed from Lawrence and Detroit)

2. JENISON WILDCATS (Jenison High School)

3. TECUMSEH BALL CHASERS (Tecumseh High School)

Congratulations to our winners, and thank you to everyone who made this another successful tournament! A recording of the tournament livestream is available at youtube.com/@Team_Midwest.

We’re already gearing up for Fiber Cup 2026—watch future issues of Country Lines for details.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

VEGGIE-LOADED COMFORT FOODS Wholesome. Hearty. Veggie-Filled.

WINNING RECIPE!

BUTTERNUT SQUASH, KALE & WHITE BEAN SOUP Bradley Villeneuve, Cherryland Electric Cooperative

1 tablespoon oil 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely chopped 2–3 celery ribs, finely chopped 5-6 garlic cloves, minced ½ teaspoon chili flakes 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 (15-ounce) can Great Northern beans, rinsed & drained 4 cups chopped kale 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth) 2 cups water ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ⅓ cup half and half 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh) ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese • toasted pumpkin seeds, for topping In a large pot, add the oil over medium heat.

Add the onion and celery and sauté in the pot until soft. Add the garlic, chili flakes, butternut squash, and thyme. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the beans, kale, broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, until squash is tender. Add half and half, sage, and Parmesan.

Stir together. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve into bowls and top with toasted pumpkin seeds.

Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Rice Dishes, due Feb. 1; Salads with a Twist, 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.

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VEGGIE CHILI

Jeannine Anderson, Presque Isle 4 tablespoons oil 1 large onion, chopped 1 large green pepper, chopped 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped 16 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped 1 (23-ounce) can tomato soup 1 (23-ounce) can diced tomatoes, including liquid 1 teaspoon paprika

⅛ teaspoon cayenne (or more to taste) 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons salt 1 (29-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, including liquid

Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, green pepper, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until softened, stirring frequently. Stir in all remaining ingredients.

Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the chili is too thick, add a little water; if it’s too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

BEST MUSHROOM VEGETABLE BAKED ZITI Cynthia Hodges, Ontonagon

¾ pound ziti noodles 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing 1 cup diced onion ½ cup diced green bell pepper 16 ounces baby portobello mushrooms 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground oregano 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1½ teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta if preferred) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 8 ounces grated mozzarella/ provolone cheese blend, divided 6 cups quality marinara sauce, divided (store bought is fine) 10 basil leaves, torn

Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with olive oil. Cook ziti noodles to al dente according to package directions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and green pepper; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Finely chop mushrooms in a food processor, then add to the skillet. Cook until most of the moisture evaporates, stirring frequently. Add garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 tablespoons of the shredded mozzarella/provolone blend. Stir until well combined.

Return cooked pasta to the pot. Add half the marinara sauce and the reserved cooking water; stir to coat the pasta evenly. Fold in the cheese mixture. Spread a thin layer of the remaining marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared pan. Add half the pasta mixture, then spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over it. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella/provolone cheese. Layer the rest of the pasta, then spread the remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella/provolone and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with torn basil leaves.

FABULOUS CAJUN CORN ON THE COB Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

4 ears of corn, husked and silked 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning ½ teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon sour cream 1 tablespoon lime juice • chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Preheat oven to 425 F or preheat grill for direct heat. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush evenly onto the corn. Oven: Wrap each ear in foil and bake for 30 minutes. Grill: Place corn on the grill (wrapped in foil or directly on grates), turning every 3–5 minutes, for 10–15 minutes, until lightly charred and tender. While the corn is cooking, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice in a small bowl. Brush the creamy lime sauce onto the cooked corn. Garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve warm.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

MEC in the Community

Cass District Library Spooktacular: MECers Diane, Kelli, and Lori dressed up and passed out nearly three full Costco-sized bags of candy to eager trick-or-treaters.

Tech Talks LIVE: At the Cass County Council on Aging, Techie Chuck held his final two Tech Talk classes. He taught community members about internet safety and the basics of artificial intelligence.

WLEN Thank-A-Vet Fundraiser: We helped raise more than $60,000 for veterans in need! We sponsored the 9–10 a.m. hour of the program, and MECer Dave was on-site to talk about his experience as a veteran.

Blue Star Mothers: MEC donated to help send more than 100 care packages to active service members both stateside and overseas.

Cass County Council on Aging: We supported this year’s Thanksgiving luncheon once again, sponsoring the meal and volunteering to help serve food to local seniors.

Soup Luncheon: Xi Delta Mu held its annual soup luncheon to benefit Fitch Camp in Dowagiac. Dozens of MECers donated to enjoy a good meal for a good cause.

Donations

We donated to several organizations that support our local communities: • • • • • • •

Veterans Helping Veterans SWMI Foundation (Battle Creek, MI) St. Louis Center (Chelsea, MI) Cascades Humane Society (Jackson, MI) Smiles on Wheels (Jackson County, MI) Marcellus Athletic Boosters (Marcellus, MI) Saline Area Social Service (Saline, MI) South Michigan Food Bank (Counties of Lenawee, Barry, Jackson, Branch, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Hillsdale, and St. Joseph) • SASHA Farm Animal Sanctuary (Manchester, MI) • Barn Sanctuary (Chelsea, MI) 12 JANUARY 2026

Trade School & College Scholarships Available Eligibility and Selection You are eligible to apply if your family receives monthly service from MEC at your primary residence.

Please note that you are NOT eligible if you are the child of an MEC employee or board member.

Your application will be evaluated based on your video submission, as well as academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement and/or employment, and honors/awards.

High school seniors: Answer this video challenge and you could earn $1,000 toward your trade school or college education!

This year’s winners will also be able to apply for a second scholarship after completing their first year of trade school or college. Up to two secondyear scholarships will be awarded.

Create a time capsule that you’ll open in 10 years. Include at least five items. In your video, show each item clearly and talk about the importance of each one. Your time capsule can be serious or funny—it just needs to be yours!

To be considered, you must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a four-point scale.

For final approval, please be prepared to submit an official transcript.

We award four scholarships each year and announce winners in the spring.

The deadline to apply is Monday, March 16, 2026.

Important Notices: Enable Two-Factor Authentication in SmartHub

Last Call for Youth Tour

You can now enable two-factor authentication (2FA) in your SmartHub mobile app.

The last day to apply for this year’s Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C., is Sunday, Jan. 11!

2FA keeps unwanted visitors out of your MEC account by verifying your identity with a text message, email, or authentication app. Once enabled, 2FA will provide you with a unique one-time code each time you log in to ensure it’s really you.

Visit us at teammidwest.com/2FA to learn how to enable it.

Scholarship Opportunity:

Southwestern Michigan College SMC-bound students can apply for our one-course scholarship to cover Intro to Computer Technology.

Get full details at teammidwest.com/smc-scholarship.

High school students 15–17 years old are invited to apply now for this allexpense-paid educational trip to interact hands-on with our nation’s capital city and discover the history of American electric cooperatives. This year’s trip will take place June 14–20, 2026.

Apply today at cooperativeyouthtour.com.

Students must live in a household that receives MEC electric service. Please note that children of MEC employees and board members are not eligible.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

T A TH E GR E

B

ASE H C R EA A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART

By Emily Haines Lloyd

W

hen the sun rises over Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula in March, hundreds of skiers gather on the Swedetown Trails in Calumet for one of the Midwest’s most beloved cross-country ski races: the Great Bear Chase.

Now entering its 45th year, the race has grown from a local favorite into one of the region’s largest and most spirited ski events, drawing participants from across the country and even around the world. Race director Angela Luskin says that’s exactly what makes it special.

“Last year, 67% of our racers came from outside Michigan,” Luskin said.

“We had participants from Montana, Florida, Utah, Maine, and even other countries. But the appeal is that Great Bear Chase still feels like a small-town race. That community vibe is what keeps people coming back.”

14 JANUARY 2026

The 2026 race will be held on March 7, continuing a tradition that began in 1981 when local skiers Rick Oikarinen and Bob Gregg launched the event to celebrate the Keweenaw’s pristine trails and hardy outdoor spirit. While the race has expanded with new distances, sponsors, and participants, Luskin says its foundation has remained the same: powered by volunteers, fueled by local pride, and dedicated to supporting the Swedetown Trails that make it possible.

“Everything about this race reflects the community,” Luskin said. “From our posters to the copper bear paw trophies made by local artists to the wooden ski awards handcrafted by area woodworkers, it’s all local talent.”

COMMUNITY ROOTS AND COOPERATIVE SPIRIT

“This is the major annual fundraiser for the trails,” Luskin said. “People come year-round to hike, bike, snowshoe, and ski. The money we raise helps keep them beautiful and accessible for everyone.”

Each year, more than 100 volunteers help make the Great Bear Chase possible. Calumet Schools open their gymnasium doors for the post-race banquet, local businesses donate prizes and funds, and two area bakeries prepare the famous pasty lunch that awaits every skier at the finish line.

Proceeds from the race directly benefit the Swedetown Trails, funding grooming equipment, accessibility improvements, and chalet maintenance.

A RACE WITH HEART Though the Great Bear Chase is known for its world-class trails and strong competition, it’s the atmosphere that skiers talk about most.

“THAT COMMUNITY VIBE IS WHAT KEEPS PEOPLE COMING BACK.”

LOOKING AHEAD “Our racers are different from those at some of the larger events,” Luskin said. “They love that the volunteers are smiling, the lunch is homemade, and the whole event feels like a community party.”

That warmth stands out even more when paired with the rugged beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula. “It’s the perfect place for an event like this,” she said. “You get world-class trails, stunning scenery, and a community that truly embraces the outdoors.”

The race has also become an important economic driver for the region. The 2025 event drew more than 800 participants and generated nearly $800,000 in local economic impact through lodging, dining, and recreation spending. “That’s huge for a small rural area,” Luskin said. “It helps our local businesses thrive through the winter season.”

As the race approaches its fifth decade, Luskin and her team are focused on balance—continuing to grow while preserving the event’s authenticity.

“We always ask, how can we make the race even better while keeping that community feel?” she said. “We want to maintain a high-caliber event that draws people from all over but never lose sight of what makes it special.”

After all, in the Keweenaw, winter isn’t something to endure—it’s something to celebrate. And each March, as skiers glide across the finish line, the Great Bear Chase continues to prove that when a community comes together, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.

To learn more, visit greatbearchase.com.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Introducing

SMARTBIZ Internet

When you’re running a small business, your days are nonstop.

MEC SmartBiz Internet can keep your business running and productive with exceptional Wi-Fi coverage, robust security, an automatic failover to your backup network, and four distinct Wi-Fi networks to provide safe and secure connectivity for business systems, staff, and guests.

Secure Protect sensitive data with isolated networks, automatic hacker and malware blocking, and content filtering.

Avoid costly disruptions with 99.999% reliability and an automatic failover to your backup network.

Get 24/7 local tech support.

Manage A free MEC router provides reliable Wi-Fi with symmetrical upload/download speeds, unlimited data, and no need to compete with nearby businesses and homes for bandwidth.

Use the free MEC SmartBiz mobile app to manage employee access and create dedicated networks for activities like point-of-sale.

Grow Offer free Wi-Fi to your customers and collect useful data and contact information for future outreach.

Gain insights into customer behavior to create and promote specific offers and products.

AVAILABLE TODAY You may need to upgrade your equipment to use MEC SmartBiz features.

Call 800-492-5989 or email smartbiz@teammidwest.com to let us know if you’re interested in learning more.

teammidwest.com/smartbiz-internet Fiber internet service is not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission. See website for detailed terms and conditions.

MECers Rake Senior Yards Twenty MEC volunteers muscled through heavy, wet snow to rake yards for the United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Rake a Difference event on Nov. 13.

In total, more than 1,500 volunteers helped care for 348 seniors in need across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Check out some fun facts from the United Way:

TEAMWORK

• A team packed over 100 bags at 1 house alone • Biggest team: 42 people • Smallest team: 2 people • 27 new teams • 17 teams from 13 different schools/districts

EFFORT

• 1 person did one house by themself • 28 teams asked for additional seniors to serve • A volunteer dressed up as a pickle • 1 team = 8 large houses • A team asked for 5 additional houses on the day of the event

IMPACT

• 31 seniors were taken off the wait list and served on the day of the event • Multiple seniors were in tears because of joy and gratitude

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

Where In Michigan Is This?

When Business Took Flight:

Runci’s Spiraling Entrance into Lowell History

By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications member 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.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Rainer Reichert, a Cherryland Energy Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Shay Logging Locomotive in Cadillac, Michigan.

Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.

18 JANUARY 2026

My grandfather, C. H. Runciman, moved his small family (including my 1-year-old mother) to Lowell, Michigan, in 1917 after purchasing the Jakeway Elevator at age 27. He had previously been superintendent of Grosse Ile Township Schools (you could advance quickly in those days).

Being new to the business, but also a skilled salesman, “Runci” (as he was often called, and also “C.H.”) sought ways to market his business.

In 1918, what better way to do so than to hire a local World War I pilot, Charles Stocking, and fly him to a nearby farmer’s land in Parnell. The purpose was for Runci to make an offer on the bean crop at the Cam Herreran farm. To add a little more excitement and attention to this sales call, the pilot made a spiraling drop before landing in the field. It was pretty exhilarating, especially for my grandfather! The result? Farmers came from miles around to see this spectacle and to get to know Runci, which led to doing business with him.

It worked, as he remained in business for around 50 years. He was also a community leader known as “Mr. Lowell” and received many local and state accolades over the decades. As his only grandson, for decades, I have had the desire to emulate his voluntary contributions to the community. As best as I can calculate, I have achieved about 10% of his accomplishments. At age 81, I am going to have to live a lot longer to do better!

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

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TeamMidwest.com

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Propane is not available in southeast Michigan or northern Ohio. An identity verification and a 12-month service contract are required for internet and propane. Propane service includes a $1 tank set fee, plus applicable trenching and township permit fees. Fiber and propane services are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.