COUNTRY LINES
WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY
Feeling is believing.
You may not see your underground WaterFurnace geothermal system. But you’ll definitely notice its effects.
When it comes to your HVAC system, you primarily want to know whether it will comfortably heat and cool your home. With WaterFurnace, that answer is a resounding “yes.” Our units operate for longer periods at lower speeds, providing stable temperatures all year round. This helps eliminate hot or cold spots, so you’ll be comfortable in every room. Experience a WaterFurnace geothermal system in action, and you’ll feel the difference.
Geothermal is the only renewable that provides reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS
Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800)327-1937 allendaleheating.com
Berrien Springs Waterfurnace Michiana (269)473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Lansing Candor Mechanical (517)920-0890 candormechanical.com
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231)796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com
Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989)761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com
Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989)582-0137
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com
Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616)897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com
Manistique Hoholik Enterprises (906)341-5065 hoholikenterprises.com
Marinette, WI
GPS Htg. & Clg (715)732-2111 gpsheatingcooling.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Negaunee J-Goods Plmb. & Htg. (906)869-2522 jgoodsplumbingand heating.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517)886-1138 mwphonline.com
Traverse City
D&W Mechanical (231)941-1251 dwmechanical.com
Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000 geofurnace.com
CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
Alger Delta Electric: up to $2,000
Cherryland 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
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750
Thumb Electric: up to $2,000
Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives
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, 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: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks Tri-County 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.
6 10 14
6 EXPLORING LAKE SUPERIOR’S UNDERWATER WONDERLAND AT PICTURED ROCKS
Come see why this spectacle on Lake Superior was named America's first National Lakeshore.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Homemade Hamburgers: Make your summer cookout even better with these juicy burgers bursting with flavor.
14 LILYPAD SOLAR BOATS: A RECREATIONAL REVOLUTION
This eco-friendly boating experience is one that everyone can easily enjoy.
18 GUEST COLUMN
Dr. William J. Fuller, World War II Neurosurgeon: A son recalls his father's wartime legacy and how a small act of kindness made a profound impact on him.
MI Co-op Community
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
Recipe Contest
See details on page 10. Breads & Muffins due Aug. 1; Holiday Treats due Sept. 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!
teammidwest.com
/teammidwest
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND CASSOPOLIS SOLUTIONS CENTER
60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, MI 49031
M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
PAW PAW SOLUTIONS CENTER
59825 S. LaGrave Street, Paw Paw, MI 49079
M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
TECUMSEH SOLUTIONS CENTER
5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286
M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
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
Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443
Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com
John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816
John.Green@teammidwest.com
Dan Bodette, Wauseon 419-344-4015
Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com
Gerry Bundle, Cassopolis 269-414-0164
Gerry.Bundle@teammidwest.com
Erika Escue-Cadieux, Onsted 419-346-1088
Erika.Escue-Cadieux@teammidwest.com
Fred Turk, Decatur 269-423-7762
Fred.Turk@teammidwest.com
Jim Wiseley, Bloomingdale 269-760-4619
Jim.Wiseley@teammidwest.com
PRESIDENT/CEO: Robert Hance
DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Amy Pales
COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: Grant Zamora
Midwest Energy & Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Please note: electric customers of MEC must adhere to our bylaws, which can be found at teammidwest.com/bylaws.
Announcing MEC’s Next CEO
Robert Hance, President/CEO
In my January 2024 column, I announced my retirement. Now I would like to share the news of our next CEO. Below is the official public announcement. MEC is in very good hands.
Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC) announced that its board of directors has unanimously selected Terry Rubenthaler as its next president and chief executive officer (CEO). Rubenthaler currently serves as MEC’s chief operating officer (COO) and will take over on Oct. 1, 2024. He succeeds Robert Hance, who will retire in September.
The official search began in January, shortly after Hance announced his retirement. The MEC board’s executive search committee worked with EnerVision, a consulting firm for electric utilities, on recruiting and screening candidates. The prospect pool was initially narrowed down to a group that participated in a series of interviews with the board. The board made its decision in mid-June.
“We had an impressive pool of candidates, and the decision was not an easy one,” said Clarence “Topper” Barth, MEC board chairperson. “However, Terry’s leadership and unmatched understanding of our business model, mission, operations, and infrastructure made him the top pick. We are proud of his dedication to making MEC the best it can be both for customers and in our industry.”
Rubenthaler is a registered professional engineer with over 30 years of experience in the electric utility industry. He earned a bachelor’s in electrical engineering from the University of Nebraska in 1990, after which he took a role as an electrical engineer with Dawson Public Power District in Lexington, Nebraska. He came to MEC in 1995 and has held several leadership roles over the years. In 2015, he was tapped to serve as chief technology officer (CTO) when MEC launched its fiber project. In 2022, he was promoted to his current role of COO. Rubenthaler currently lives in Niles, Michigan, with his wife, Gina. They have three children and three grandchildren.
Rubenthaler currently oversees MEC’s electrical and fiber operations. He recently led the implementation of a complex two-way fiber communications system on MEC’s electric grid to improve infrastructure monitoring and reduce the impact of outages. Additionally, he oversaw the design and construction of fiber internet and phone service for electric customers and for the major expansion of fiber internet outside of MEC’s electric service territory. Rubenthaler also played a pivotal role in securing broadband construction funding from the Federal Communications Commission, including $37 million from the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund reverse auction. Most recently, he managed MEC’s efforts to partner with over 40 townships and three Michigan counties to secure funding from the state of Michigan for broadband expansion.
“I’m honored and grateful to the board for this opportunity and will work to ensure that MEC continues to fulfill its vision of creating vibrant, relevant, and sustainable rural communities,” said Rubenthaler. “I, personally, have been a customer of MEC for almost 16 years, and I understand first-hand the impact our service has on our customers’ lives.”
Hance, who will retire after 22 years at MEC, expressed confidence in the board’s selection. “MEC owes a lot of its success to Terry, and I’m confident he’ll continue to position MEC as a service provider our customers know they can rely on,” stated Hance. “MEC is in very good hands.”
ABen Russell Resigns from MEC Board
s shared in a letter to District 6 customers on May 1, Ben Russell of Constantine has resigned from the MEC board of directors effective June 26, 2024.
Russell has faithfully represented and served the customers of District 6 since 1994, serving as vice chairperson and bringing great leadership to the board. While he’ll be greatly missed, we appreciate his dedication to MEC and our customers.
District 6 includes Constantine, Florence, Mottville, Porter (Cass County), and White Pigeon Townships in Michigan, as well as Washington and York Townships in Indiana. The term for District 6 ends in April 2025. The board is reviewing qualified candidates who applied by May 29 to serve in the seat for the remainder of the term. The appointed director will have the option to run for re-election.
HAPPY LABOR DAY
Our solutions centers will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, in honor of Labor Day. Make a payment or report an outage via SmartHub or by calling 800-492-5989.
Dropbox payments made at our solutions centers
Exploring Lake Superior’s Underwater Wonderland at Pictured Rocks
Lining the pristine shores of Lake Superior from Munising to Grand Marais, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a marvel of nature. It is a captivating destination, drawing visitors from around the world to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. One of the most captivating activities available to visitors is the shipwreck tours, which allow visitors to delve into the underwater world of Lake Superior, home to numerous well-preserved shipwrecks.
The Allure of Pictured Rocks
Renowned for its towering cliffs, colorful rock formations, sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse ecosystems, it’s no surprise that Pictured Rocks was designated as America’s first National Lakeshore in 1966. The largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior is also known as the Big Lake; the Chippewa people called it Gitche Gumee.
Where Pictured Rocks meets Lake Superior is pure Michigan magic, full
of vibrant marine life and geological wonder. It is accessible by both land and water, offering a variety of adventurous options for those wishing to view and visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. From hiking to kayaking, boating, and diving, endless adventures await.
The Shipwreck Tour Experience
For a mesmerizing glimpse into the underwater world lying just beneath the Lake Superior surface, hop aboard a Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tour. This presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore the hidden depths of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and an up-close experience with the striking rock formations giving Pictured Rocks its name.
Shipwreck tours depart from Munising, a charming small town near the eastern entrance of the national lakeshore. The two-hour tour visits two different shipwreck sites, cruises along rock cliffs and caves, and passes the historic 1867 Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse.
Passengers can admire and indulge in the exquisite beauty of Grand Island and Munising Bay.
The specially designed glass-bottom boats feature large viewing panels with transparent floors to peer directly into the clear waters below. As the marine landscape comes into view
through the openings on the boat floor, it reveals a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Riders are treated to a spectacle of underwater life as the boat glides through shallow waters. Schools of fish and aquatic plants sway gently in the current, creating a vibrant tapestry of life beneath the surface.
Massive painted coves with mineralstained sandstone walls line the shores. Adorned with cascading waterfalls and intricate archways carved by centuries of erosion, each geological feature tells a story of Lake Superior’s tumultuous past.
Educational Insights
Beyond its natural beauty, Pictured Rocks also boasts a rich maritime history. Numerous shipwrecks rest on the lakebed below, preserved by Lake Superior’s frigid waters. The glass-bottom boats offer a unique perspective once reserved only for scuba divers; now, these underwater wonders can be explored without even getting wet.
Munising Bay is home to a treasure trove of maritime artifacts, providing fascinating insights into the American shipping history. Seventy-three shipwrecks have been discovered throughout Grand Island and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and many more are still missing.
Aboard the shipwreck tour, knowledgeable and entertaining narrators retell the tragic tales of ships lost to the treacherous waters of Lake Superior. See and learn about the Bermuda, a schooner that sank in 1870, and the Herman H. Hettler, a steamer that sank in 1926. These rare, fully intact wooden ships lay only feet below the viewing window. The water of Lake Superior is so clear that sometimes passengers can see up to 45 feet below the surface.
An Unforgettable Experience
A shipwreck tour at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the hidden depths of Lake Superior. It’s a journey through time, revealing the stories of the ships and the people who sailed them. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, this underwater wonderland is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you with lasting memories of the Great Lakes’ maritime heritage and Michigan’s natural beauty.
Tickets can be purchased online and at the Shipwreck Tours gift shop in Munising. Trips are scheduled rain or shine, seven days a week, from Memorial Day until Sept. 30.
Reservations are highly recommended. Seating is available outside on the open-air deck and inside, sheltered from wind and weather. Wheelchairaccessible tours are available aboard the Shipwreck Express.
Pop and water can be purchased on board, and outside snacks are welcome and encouraged. Don’t forget a jacket and binoculars to spot North American bald eagles that may be nesting on Grand Island.
Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventure to Pictured Rocks.
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.
Can Solar Change My Energy Footprint?
If you own a solar array, our distributed renewable energy generation program lets you offset your energy usage with the electricity it generates.
How It Works
1. After you purchase a solar array and sign up for the program, we install a meter to record the energy you buy from us, as well as the energy you sell to us.
2. If you use more than you generate, we’ll be there to make up the difference.
3. If you sell us more energy than you buy, you will receive a bill credit for the excess.
Visit teammidwest.com/solar-program for program terms and to sign up.
Questions to Consider
If you’re interested in changing your energy footprint with a solar array, it’s worth considering a few questions before you buy.
• How much energy does your home use in an average month?
• How much sunlight do you typically get at your home?
• How many solar panels will you need to generate the amount of energy you want?
Solar panels can only generate energy when the sun is shining. We often have cloudy skies, rain, and snow here in Michigan, all of which limit the sunlight solar panels can capture. On average, we get 64 days of full sun per year in Southwest Michigan, and 75 per year in Southeast Michigan, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Know Your Solar Company
We support renewable energy and we’re glad solar companies do too. Still, some of our customers occasionally run into problems, so it’s a good idea to research the company.
Here are some other tips to avoid costly headaches:
• Don’t sign a contract without fully reading and understanding it.
• Don’t assume your array will qualify for certain tax incentives without consulting a tax professional.
• Don’t let special deals with quick deadlines deter you from taking your time to research your decision.
• Don’t make your purchase if you haven’t been able to ask questions, such as what happens if your array doesn’t pass inspection.
First Things First
Before signing up with a solar company, give us a call at 800-492-5989. We can help you determine what your typical energy use is so you can have a better understanding of how much power you’ll get from your solar system.
YOU’RE INVITED TO THE
THE GAME: Valorant
Saturday, Sept. 28
Doors open: 10 a.m.
First game: 11 a.m.
Teams of five will compete in a single-elimination bracket at Southwestern Michigan College’s Barbara Wood Building. Teams can be school-affiliated, or you can sign up to compete with friends (please note that you must form your team prior to registering we will not match you up).
Just want to spectate? That’s cool too! Come watch the showdown and enjoy:
•Smash Bros.
•Mario Kart
•Small Giveaways
All players and spectators must RSVP by Sept.
9!
Maximum eight teams. Open to all ages. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited. Priority will be given to school teams for competing and family/friends for spectating.
Steam Decks
+ $500 donation to your school* or charity of choice
$100 Gift Cards
+ $300 donation to your school* or charity of choice
$50 Gift Cards
+ $100 donation to your school* or charity of choice
GRAND PRIZE 3RD 2 ND
* For all school teams, donations will be awarded by default to the sponsoring school. Non-school teams will be asked to specify a 501(c)3 charity of choice.
HOMEMADE BURGERS
Make your summer cookout even better with these juicy burgers bursting with flavor.
Recipe Contest
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Breads & Muffi ns due Aug. 1; Holiday Treats due Sept. 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
WINNING RECIPE!
SPICY BLACK BEAN BURGERS
Katie Schneider, Midwest Energy & Communications
2 (14-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed, patted dry
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ large yellow onion, finely diced 1 (7-ounce) can diced green chiles (mild or medium), drained
1 tablespoon garlic cloves, minced
1½ tablespoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
½ tablespoon garlic powder
½ tablespoon smoked paprika
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
2 large eggs (or sub ¹⁄ ³ cup mashed sweet potato, for vegan)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (skip for vegan, or use vegan version)
2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
¼ teaspoon salt
¹⁄ 8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional toppings: sliced red onion, Swiss cheese, sliced tomato, lettuce, etc.
Preheat oven to 325 F. Spread beans evenly onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until slightly dried out. This is optional, but helps burgers not turn out mushy. Meanwhile, sauté olive oil, onion, chiles, and garlic over medium heat until onions are soft, about 5–6 minutes. Place in a large bowl and add the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, breadcrumbs, eggs or sweet potato, Worcestershire, barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then add the black beans. Mash well with a potato masher or fork, leaving small chunks of beans. Use hands to form into patties, about ¹⁄³ cup of mixture each, about ¾-inch thick. To bake, place patties on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake at 375 F for 10 minutes, then carefully flip and cook another 10 min, for 20 minutes total. *If making vegan version with sweet potato, bake 15 minutes on each side. To grill: Place patties on greased aluminum foil and grill at 350 F–400 F for 8 minutes on each side. Serve with your favorite toppings. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/recipe_ type/videos/
BLUE CHEESE BURGERS
Nancy Moore, Great Lakes Energy
1½ ounces cream cheese, softened
1½ ounces blue cheese
1½ teaspoons chopped fresh chives or finely chopped onion
1½ pounds ground beef
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 egg
6 sandwich buns
• Toppings of choice: lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, sautéed mushrooms/onions, etc.
Heat grill. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, blue cheese, and chives/ onion; mix well. In a large bowl, add
the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until fully combined. Shape burger mixture into 12 (3½ -inch) patties. Place 6 patties on waxed paper. Top each patty with about 1 tablespoon fi lling mixture. Place remaining patties over fi llings; press edges to seal. When ready, place the prepared patties on a gas grill over medium heat or on a charcoal grill, placing patties 4 to 6 inches from medium coals. Cook 10 to 15 minutes or until no longer pink, turning once. Serve burgers on sandwich buns with chosen toppings.
DELUXE VENISON BURGERS
Nancy Hascall, Cherryland
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
¼ cup finely chopped red, orange, or yellow bell pepper
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
¹⁄ ³ cup finely chopped onion or scallions
2 tablespoons jalapeño cream cheese
1 pound ground venison
¼ cup shredded cheese of choice
¼ cup Progresso Italian Breadcrumbs, or a slice of bread, crumbled up
1 egg
¼ teaspoon salt
¹⁄ 8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• hamburger buns
• sliced tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, or desired condiments
HOMEMADE BURGERS
Elizabeth Postma, Great Lakes Energy
1 pound ground beef (80% lean meat, 20% fat)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
• cheese slices, optional 4 hamburger buns
• Toppings: lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, sliced red onions, sliced pickles
• Condiments: garlic aioli, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Divide the mixture
into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, making sure they are slightly larger than the diameter of the hamburger buns, as they will shrink during cooking. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the grill or skillet to melt the cheese. While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or skillet until they are golden brown. Assemble your burgers by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a cooked patty. Top with sliced tomatoes, red onions, pickles, and any other desired condiments. Place the top half of the bun over the toppings and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious homemade burgers!
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the bell pepper, garlic, and onion until the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally. Set aside and allow to cool. In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the cream cheese into the ground venison. To the cream cheese mixture, add the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs and mix well. Then add the cooled vegetables; stir. Finally, add the egg, salt, and pepper and thoroughly mix. Form the hamburger patties to desired thickness and fry with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until cooked to your liking. Enjoy on hamburger buns with desired condiments, or serve with rice.
ELECTRICITY SAFETY contest winners
Our free hotline demonstrations teach local fourth graders about the dangers of electricity. As part of the demonstrations, we ask each student to create a poster that illustrates something they learned.
Two overall winners are selected—one from southwest Michigan, and one from southeast Michigan. Their messages get shared on billboards with the greater community. The winners also get a pizza party for their classroom, and their teachers receive an Amazon gift card for classroom supplies.
These weren’t the only two worth seeing. For more winners and honorable mentions, visit teammidwest.com/safety-contest-2024.
Keeping Our Community Safe
We offer free electrical safety demonstrations for any group or organization at any time throughout the year. Programs are adaptable for various audiences and timelines, and they can be conducted at our facility or yours. For more information, please contact the community relations team at 800-492-5989 or pr@teammidwest.com.
Serenity G, Blissfield Elementary (Blissfield)
Colton S, Ruth Hoppin Elementary (Three Rivers)
MEET OUR 2024 Scholarship Winners
We recently recognized the academic achievements, leadership, and community involvement of four local students with our annual college scholarship program. All four are children of MEC customers.
Applicants were told to select one of MEC’s three main services (electric, propane, and fiber internet) and film a commercial promoting it using whatever creative and artistic touches they could think of.
We awarded $1,000 scholarships to each of the students below. Visit teammidwest.com/scholarships-2024 to see each of their commercials.
Abbey Dobberstein, senior at Dowagiac Union High School. Abbey was one of two students selected to represent MEC on the 2023 NRECA Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C. She served as vice president of the student senate and captain of the varsity volleyball team, played on the varsity soccer team, and participated in National Honor Society. Outside school, Abbey worked as a babysitter and as a member of the kitchen crew at E. Root Fitch Memorial Camp. She plans to study organizational studies/ human capital at the University of Michigan.
Alexandra Prater, senior at Lenawee Christian High School. Alexandra has participated in gymnastics and National Honor Society. She has also tutored fellow students and has volunteered for her school’s annual dinner and auction to support academic scholarships and special projects. Outside school, she has volunteered at her local humane society, as well as the Devil’s Lake Arts Festival. She has also worked as a youth gymnastics coach and as a dishwasher. Alexandra plans to study political science at the University of Alabama.
Joseph Creagan, senior at Decatur Jr./Sr. High School. In the 2023-2024 school year, Joseph was selected to serve on the Michigan Department of Education’s (MDE) Student Advisory Council, which works directly with state leaders to offer students’ perspectives on MDE projects. Joseph has also served as captain of the cross country team and has participated in track and field and quiz bowl. He plans to study computer science at Michigan State University.
Kodi Jones, senior at Edwardsburg High School. Kodi has participated in track and field, student council, the National Honor Society, football managing, and Science Olympiad, a STEM competition for middle and high school students. She is a threeyear recipient of the Academic Excellence Award. She has volunteered for various service roles through student council and the National Honor Society. Kodi plans to study biomedical engineering at the University of Michigan.
High school seniors whose families receive monthly service from MEC at their primary residence are eligible to apply for our scholarship program. The application period is January through mid-March every year. Selection is based on the student’s answer to the challenge prompt as well as academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement, employment, and/or honors and awards. A minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required, and an official transcript must be submitted for final approval. Please note that children of MEC employees and board members are not eligible to apply.
Check teammidwest.com/scholarship in January 2025 for more information.
A Recreational Revolution
This eco-friendly boating experience is one that everyone can easily enjoy.
By Emily Haines Lloyd
remind you to slow down every once in a while. It’s on those very waters that Lilypad Labs is looking to redefine boating experiences. Their Lilypad solar boats are quietly stirring up a recreational revolution by offering an accessible alternative for those seeking both calming and carbon-free moments on the water.
Lilypad Labs began with founder Jim Hotary, who hails from Michigan’s automotive industry. Hotary is a sailing enthusiast who, after years of navigating traditional sailboats, recognized the need for a more approachable and comfortable boating experience. “I’ve sailed for a long time and love the feeling of the peace you can experience out on the water,” said Hotary. “Unfortunately, it’s hard to do, which makes it intimidating and inaccessible to most people.” Hotary envisioned a solution that would prioritize tranquility, simplicity, and inclusivity.
Along with Lilypad CEO Dana Lowell and the rest of the industrious team, Hotary embarked on a journey to reinvent recreational boating. What if you designed a boat so simple, so easy to maneuver, that almost anyone could captain it? The result? The Lilypad—a vessel designed for “slow boating,” where the focus is on enjoying the journey rather than rushing to a destination.
At a leisurely 5 mph, these solar-powered boats quietly transport passengers with an easy four-way controller (think old-school Pac-Man joystick). No need to back up dockside; boaters can simply slide left or right into the slip. “Our focus is on creating an easy and awesome experience on the water,” said Lowell. “But we’re also going to make sure it’s the most sustainable and eco-friendly experience at the same time.”
Lilypad Labs drew inspiration from their automotive industry experience. The company developed proprietary technology that maximizes energy efficiency while ensuring ease of use for all passengers. Because Lilypad wants to maximize the utilization of the boats, ensuring that each one is shared and enjoyed by hundreds of individuals throughout the boating season, they partnered with marinas to make the boats available to rent in four locations. This takes out the large investment to own a boat and allows access to water recreation for anyone.
While other boats on the Great Lakes may leak oil and gas, the Lilypad, made from recyclable aluminum, offers a greener option. “Michigan has over 20% of the world’s fresh water,” said Lowell. “The blue economy is vital to Michigan. We wanted to make sure we were leaving a better environmental footprint for everyone to enjoy.”
The boats look a bit like outdoor cafés, each with sofa-like lounges and a coffee table. However, you won’t see people logging into the WiFi or joining conference calls—more conversation, less overly caffeinated business jargon. “Our goal was to create an easy and accessible way for people to get on the water,” said Hotary. “Being in nature is one of the easiest ways to slow things down. We need more of that.”
As the company prepares for its second summer on the water, they remain committed to a new era of boating—where water recreation can be both stress-free and carbon-free.
“The blue economy is vital to Michigan. We wanted to make sure we were leaving a better environmental footprint for everyone to enjoy.”
—Dana Lowell, Lilypad CEO
For more on their boats and where to find them, visit lilypad-labs.com
We’re Upgrading Old Routers for Free
Do you have an MEC fiber internet router that looks like this?
This is an 844 GigaCenter. Throughout the rest of this year and in 2025, we’re shipping a free upgrade to anyone who still has one. It’s part of our process to ensure you have the best service experience and up-to-date equipment.
Will my new router have extra features?
Your new router comes with upgraded internet technology such as multigig ports, giving you the option to upgrade to our 5 Gig fiber internet package.
It also lets you access the full features of the free CommandIQ app! You’ll be able to:
• Set up guest networks
• Block devices on your Wi-Fi from accessing certain content, apps, and websites
• Monitor the internet usage of devices connected to your Wi-Fi
Plus, your new router comes with ProtectIQ, a free automatic hacker blocking software that protects your Wi-Fi network.
Visit teammidwest.com/commandiq to see what the free CommandIQ app can do and how to download it to your Apple or Android phone.
Do
I
need to do anything?
Not yet! If you still have an 844 GigaCenter, we will automatically ship you a free upgrade in 2024 or 2025.
Once we ship your router, you will receive an email notification at the address on your MEC account. The email will include a video with instructions for connecting your upgraded router.
After you receive your upgrade, we will send you a second email that says you have 60 days to connect your new router. This is to ensure your upgrade process is as smooth as possible.
We will send you a third email as a reminder when you have 10 days left.
How do I connect my new router?
Each email includes an instructional video where Techie Chuck shows you how to connect your new router.
Every router also comes with a set of paper instructions in the box.
Once you receive your new router, please connect it as soon as possible and then download the free CommandIQ app to ensure you have the best service experience.
What if I already requested a new router?
If you requested a new router via SmartHub and you haven’t connected it yet, we will send you an email notification prompting you to do so within 60 days. The email will include a how-to video from Techie Chuck. We will send a second email when you have 30 days left, and a third email when you have 10 days left.
If you requested a new router, but you don’t know where it is, give us a call at 800-492-5989.
Bringing Back Woodshop at
Bloomingdale Middle & High School
Kids are learning to work with their hands in Bloomingdale Middle and High School’s new Maker Space woodshop class.
The program is designed to give students a practical learning opportunity outside the traditional classroom experience, using equipment funded in part by a Strengthening Schools Grant from MEC. Strengthening Schools is made possible by partnership dollars from our power supplier, Wolverine Power Cooperative.
“My desire is to show kids that, ‘Hey, I can build something with this tool,’” says Maker Space Teacher Matt Swier.
Bloomingdale school leaders transformed a former computer lab and library into a woodshop area and approached Swier to teach a project-based class.
It was important to Swier to be able to teach them skills they could apply in their everyday lives—such as household maintenance—in addition to preparing them for success later in life should they pursue a career in the trades.
There was also the matter of getting students interested in the course. Swier noticed that YouTube and TikTok content creators who did woodworking called themselves “makers.”
He adopted this term, naming the class Maker Space to signal that it would offer a modern woodshop experience.
In the class, students learn to use various tools—including a laser etcher, a CNC machine, and even a small arc welder— to complete all kinds of projects, from restoring a teacher’s dinner table to creating storage shelves out of the wood from the school’s old stadium bleachers. Several of these projects have been sold to the public, with the sales dollars being funneled back into more materials and equipment for the class.
Even with those funds, woodshop equipment is expensive, and Swier had to seek out additional funding to give students the best possible experience. While searching for potential grants, he came across MEC’s Strengthening Schools program. He was awarded funding and used the money to purchase a drum sander and a silent air compressor.
Swier says hands-on classes like his open doors after high school that students might not otherwise be aware of, and they encourage participation from students who may be less invested in a traditional classroom environment.
“Kids who don’t pay attention in other classes love this one because they can express themselves creatively,” Swier says. “The coolest part of my job is seeing the kids light up with smiles because they built something.”
We’re accepting applications for Strengthening Schools Grants! Teachers, administrators, and school officials at public elementary, middle, or high schools serving students in our electric service territories are eligible.
Visit teammidwest.com/school-grants for full details and to apply by Oct. 14.
Mystery Photo
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Where In Michigan Is This?
Identify the correct location of the photo above by July 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community
Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/ August, September, and November/December.
By William J. Fuller II, a Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member
M Dr. William J. Fuller, World War II Neurosurgeon
y dad, Dr. William J. Fuller, was born in 1912 in the small town of Yale, Michigan. With determination and hard work, he put himself through Eastern Michigan University and then the University of Michigan Medical School, graduating in 1938. He completed his residency at University Hospital in Ann Arbor, spending a year specializing in neurosurgery. In 1941, he married his high school sweetheart and, shortly after, joined the University Hospital Army Unit.
As World War II escalated, my dad was called to Camp Robinson in Arkansas for hospital training. Little did my mother know, she would not see him again until 1945. In 1942, he was shipped to England to serve with the 298th General Hospital. Alongside his unit, he landed on Utah Beach during the Normandy invasion and set up a hospital in Cherbourg.
Neurosurgeons were in high demand as the Allies advanced across France. Due to his specialized training, my dad was transferred to the 15th General Hospital in Liège, Belgium. Liège was under heavy bombardment from German buzz bombs, and the hospital was hit, resulting in 28 deaths and 150 injuries. Despite the dangers, he continued to serve with the 298th in a tent hospital set up in an open field.
One day, a young soldier with a severe shrapnel wound was brought in and needed a blood transfusion. While he prepared the transfusion, my dad noticed a familiar name on the bottle of donated blood: Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe. Eisenhower had personally donated blood to the Allied blood drive.
When my dad was discharged in 1945, among the memorabilia he brought home was the blood bottle bearing Eisenhower’s name. It was displayed in a small cabinet in our home, a poignant reminder of his service and the connections forged during the war. He often expressed a desire to personally deliver this bottle to the Eisenhower Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas.
After my dad passed away in 1996, the bottle remained in our family cabinet. Honoring his longstanding wish, my wife Laura and I made the journey to Abilene in 2002. We presented the bottle to the director of the Eisenhower Museum, finally fulfilling my dad’s heartfelt desire.
Dr. William J. Fuller’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and the profound impact of small, meaningful acts in the midst of global conflict.
Guest Column Win $200 for stories published!
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.
May 2024 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Susan Deer Dembowski, a HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Chippewa County Courthouse in Sault Ste. Marie.
