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!
500 J.K. Paul Street
Ontonagon, MI 49953
906-884-4151
800-562-7128
After hours: 866-639-6098
OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
William Hodges, President Lake Linden District
906-934-3743 • district7@ontorea.com
Calvin Koski, Vice President Aura District
906-524-6988 • district4@ontorea.com
Mildred Ann Gasperich, Secretary Boston District 906-337-5079 • district6@ontorea.com
Randy Myhren, Treasurer Green/Firesteel/Toivola District 906-884-4092 • district1@ontorea.com
Jack Lehto, Director Pelkie/Herman/Aura District 906-353-6684 • district3@ontorea.com
Vacant
Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine District district2@ontorea.com
Michael Gaunt, Director Chassell/Keweenaw Bay District 906-370-8133 • district5@ontorea.com
PERSONNEL
Dallas Aho, Acting General Manager Fay Hauswirth, Billing Clerk Alex Watson, Billing Clerk Justin Sironen, Operations Manager
OTHER INFORMATION
Date of Incorporation: Sept. 30, 1937 Fiscal year-end: Dec. 31 countrylines.com/coops/ontonagon
Ontonagon County REA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
You’re in Good Company with Co-ops
By William Hodges, Board President
fair question people often ask is, “What’s in it for me?” This makes sense, as we all need to act in our own self-interest every now and then. The cool thing about co-ops is that we answer the question, “What’s in it for me?” with, “This is what’s in it for we.”
When the market refuses to offer a good or service, or does so at too high of a price, co-ops step in to fill the void. Cooperatives identify members of the community who have the same self-interests and bring them together to make a cooperative decision.
In 1937, when Ontonagon REA got started, the folks in our community shared at least one common selfinterest—they wanted electricity. In fact, many Americans who lived in rural parts of the country needed electricity, which is why electric cooperatives were formed. Individuals acted in their own self-interest, but that self-interest led to the community and economic development of the rural areas in which they lived. Today, rural electric co-ops serve over 42 million people in 47 states.
It is good to know that your friends and neighbors are also your co-owners of Ontonagon REA. People coming together to meet a particular need is at the heart of every kind of co-op.
Local credit unions bring financial services to people who banks do not want to serve. In urban areas and college communities, housing co-ops offer people a safe, reliable, and affordable place to live. Many agricultural co-ops started as a way to get their products to market, whether it was oranges (Sunkist), dairy (Land O’Lakes), grapes (Welch’s), organic milk (Organic Valley), or any of the hundreds of other food products that co-ops bring to our table every day.
Many people who owned small businesses realized they too had a common self-interest: Stay in business. So, they formed purchasing co-ops like Ace Hardware and True Value so they could compete with big-box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Today, it is estimated that more than 40% of all residents in the U.S. are members of at least one co-op. Worldwide, well over a billion people are counted as co-op members. Locally, we have the Keweenaw Co-op (Hancock), Settlers’ Co-op (Bruce Crossing), and many remember the Pelkie Co-op that was in Pelkie.
So, every time you turn on (or off) the lights, it can serve as a reminder that as a co-op member, you are in good company with your local neighbors— and with people all around the world.
Meet Your New Operations Manager
Ontonagon REA recently named Lead Lineman Justin Sironen as operations manager for the cooperative. Sironen is an Ontonagon County native and has worked for the REA since 2018. He is a graduate of the Northern Michigan University Electrical Line Technician program and, prior to coming to work for Ontonagon REA, he worked for power line contractors. In his new position, he looks forward to playing a more technical role, such as improving line loss and making things more efficient and cost-effective for members.
Ontonagon REA Bids Farewell
to Billing Clerk Fay Hauswirth and Welcomes Alex Watson
Fay Hauswirth started at Ontonagon REA in July 2014, and she will retire in August 2024. When asked what she has enjoyed most about her time at the REA, she says, “Working with such fine people. I have also enjoyed the satisfaction of accomplishing goals and getting things done. Helping people who are having problems paying their bills has been immensely rewarding.”
During her tenure at the cooperative, she has experienced many changes. “The new metering system is what I think made the biggest difference in operations, and it was rewarding to see it come to fruition. It was a lot of work to get it going, but it is going to streamline things for office operations and the members,” she said.
When asked about her plans in retirement, she said, “My son and I made up a bucket list, and we hope to check things off one by one. I am also looking forward to spending more time with my mother.” But the thing she is most looking forward to? “I’m going to spend as much time as I can at the beach rock picking. I intend to
be a professional sunset watcher,” she says with a grin.
Alex Watson began working for Ontonagon REA as a billing clerk in April 2024. He was born and raised in lower Michigan in Clinton Township. Alex graduated from Gogebic Community College with a degree in the business school of ski area management and, during his career, he has worked at the Porcupine Mountain ski hill, Marquette Mountain, Pat’s Motor Sports, and Connie’s.
Coming to work at the cooperative was a natural fit for him. “My dad is an electrician, and I often helped him with some of his jobs. I learned quite a bit from him, and this piqued my interest in the power industry,” he says. When asked what his favorite part of the job has been thus far, he quickly responds, “Coworkers! Everyone has been wonderful to work with.”
Alex and his wife Farren reside in Ontonagon with their daughter Haddie and dogs Lucy and Minnie. His interests outside of work include growing houseplants, mountain biking, and skateboarding.
“Helping people who are having problems paying their bills has been immensely rewarding.”
—Fay Hauswirth
“Everyone has been wonderful to work with.”
—Alex Watson
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 fi sh 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.
HOW TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING
Each year, 3,800 people in the U.S. die from drowning. Electric shock drowning occurs when an electric current escapes boats, docks, and lights near marinas, shocking nearby swimmers. There are no visible signs of current seeping into water, which makes this a hidden danger. The electric shock paralyzes swimmers, making them unable to swim to safety.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR:
Swimmers
• Never swim near a boat or launching ramp. Residual current could flow into the water from the boat or the marina’s wiring, potentially putting anyone in the water at risk of electric shock.
• If you feel any tingling sensations while in the water, tell someone and swim back in the direction from which you came. Immediately report it to the dock or marina owner.
Boat Owners
• Ensure your boat is properly maintained and consider having it inspected annually. GFCIs and ELCIs should be tested monthly. Conduct leakage testing to determine if electrical current is escaping the vessel.
• Use portable GFCIs or shore power cords (including “Y” adapters) that are “UL- Marine Listed” when using electricity near water.
• Regularly have your boat’s electrical system inspected by a certified marine electrician. Ensure it meets your local and state NEC, NFPA, and ABYC safety codes.
IF YOU SEE ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING TAKING PLACE:
Monuments, Statues & Memorials
Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!
Submit A Photo & Win A Bill Credit!
Ontonagon REA members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2024 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a credit of $50 on their December 2024 energy bills!
Upcoming Topics and Deadlines:
Quilts, due July 20 (Sept./Oct, issue)
Wreaths, due Sept. 20 (Nov./Dec. issue)
To submit photos, and for details and instructions, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines. We look forward to seeing your best photos!
1. Lean on me; I’ve got you! Veterans Memorial in Marquette, Michigan. Sherry Trepanier
2. One of two monuments on Houghton’s waterfront to honor Verna Mize and her effort to save Lake Superior from environmental demise. Mary Kaminski
3. Trip to the Ark Encounter. Danielle Impola
4. Remember the fallen. Brenda Herrick
5. Home at last. WW2-KIA/MIA Elwood R. Bailey. Connie Tingley
6. Roadrunner, Fort Stockton, Texas. Anne Kirkpatrick
7. Sue and her viking! Jan Gratteau
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.
S.S. BADGER
A Historic Icon of the Great Lakes
By Emily Haines Lloyd
Common sense says the path of least resistance is the wise choice. But what if the wise choice isn’t the one that can bring you a new, one-of-a-kind experience? Well then, sometimes you take the choppier path.
Folks from Michigan might take the interstate route through bustling Chicago to reach Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Those further north might opt to drive through the scenic Upper Peninsula. But those with an inkling for adventure should consider a third route.
A Historic Journey
The S.S. Badger is the last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation in the United States. She has provided a fun, reliable, and affordable shortcut across beautiful Lake Michigan for more than 70 years and has transported millions of passengers since her rebirth in 1992.
With ports in Ludington, Michigan, and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the S.S. Badger is a floating reminder of maritime history and an enduring symbol of the Great Lakes’ rich heritage. The 410-foot ship can accommodate 600 passengers and 180 vehicles, including cars, RVs, motorcycles, and commercial trucks, during her sailing season of June through early October.
“The Badger is the last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation in the United States. With Great Lakes surrounding Michigan’s two peninsulas, the state has relied on ferries to transport people, vehicles, and products for over 130 years,” said Sara Spore, general manager of Lake Michigan Carferry, the company that manages the S.S. Badger. “As a moving National Historic Landmark (NHL), she continues to serve as a unique maritime tradition.”
Uniquely registered as a historical site in both Michigan and Wisconsin, the Badger holds numerous accolades, including being designated as a mechanical engineering landmark and named Ship of the Year by the Steamship Historical Society of America.
In 2016, she received the nation’s highest historic honor when the U.S. Department of Interior officially designated the Badger as a National Historic Landmark—making her the only NHL that moves.
Tradition Meets Entertainment
After making the difficult decision to end the 2023 season early due to unexpected damage to the Badger ’s ramp system, Lake Michigan Carferry is excited to get back at it. While refunds were issued for those who had already booked passage for later in the 2023 season, there were disappointed passengers, as well as a staff who is eager to please each season.
“Our staff, passengers, and both port cities are looking forward to the upcoming season,” said Spore. “The Badger is a fun experience for passengers with many favorite traditions onboard.”
Spore isn’t exaggerating—the S.S. Badger offers more than just transportation; it provides a memorable experience steeped in tradition and entertainment. From free Badger Bingo and onboard movie lounges to kids’ play areas and arcade games, the ship offers many activities to enjoy during the voyage. Additionally, passengers can indulge in food and beverages at onboard bars and restaurants, browse the gift shop, or simply relax on the outside decks, soaking in the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes.
“ The Badger is the last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation in the United States. With Great Lakes surrounding Michigan’s two peninsulas, the state has relied on ferries to transport people, vehicles, and products for over 130 years.”
The Legacy Continues
The S.S. Badger’s journey reflects not only the evolution of maritime technology but also the changing environmental consciousness. Originally designed to transport railcars, the Badger has adapted to meet modern sustainability standards. Lake Michigan Carferry has undertaken significant initiatives to ensure the ship’s environmental impact is minimized. With the cessation of ash discharge into the lake and the implementation of new ash-retention and combustion-control systems, the Badger now serves as a model of eco-friendly maritime transportation.
As the S.S. Badger embarks on another season, it does so not only as a historic vessel but also as a forward-thinking model of sustainability and stewardship, ensuring that its legacy continues for generations to come. With its rich history, environmental initiatives, and commitment to providing an exciting and memorable voyage, the S.S. Badger remains an essential part of Michigan’s maritime heritage and a beloved way to traverse the waters between Michigan and Wisconsin.
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
Back in the Day
Electric cooperative director recalls life in rural Michigan—and how it changed with electricity
By Yvette Pecha
Louis Wenzlaff is somewhat of a luminary in the Thumb Electric Cooperative (TEC) service area. He was born and raised in Kingston, Michigan, and has spent his entire 87 years of life in the town, working in industries including farming, teaching, banking, and health care. As a TEC board member since 1977, he also has played a large role in ensuring cooperative members receive efficient and reliable electricity— something that, for good reason, he doesn’t take for granted.
The Wenzlaff family heritage in Michigan began when Louis’ grandparents, who were both German-born and had immigrated to Illinois, heard of a 120-acre farm that was for sale in Kingston. The eight children they raised on that property included Louis’ father, also named Louis. Louis Sr. moved to Detroit when he was 16 years old to work for Cadillac, but when the Great Depression hit in 1929, he moved back home to help prevent his family from losing the farm.
Louis Sr. met his soon-to-be wife
Elizabeth at the country school, where she was a teacher and he was in charge of starting the potbelly stove fire on winter mornings. As was typical at the time, Louis Sr. and Elizabeth lived at the home of Louis’ grandparents, where they welcomed two daughters and then Louis. All three children were born in the house with the help of their grandmother and local midwives. One of Louis’ earliest memories is a momentous
Louis and his wife Sharon.
one: In 1941, when he was 4 years old, the Rural Electrification Administration (as TEC was known as the time) brought electricity to the farm. Louis said he remembers it “like it was yesterday.”
“You have to think of it,” Louis said. “We had no electricity, no running water, no plumbing, no nothing—it completely changed our lives.” The family’s first priority was to put a few lights in the house, followed by more lights in the barn. Using the well on the property, they then installed plumbing. Their first big appliance purchases were a refrigerator and a wringer washing machine. Next came a toilet—replacing the “three-holer” that Louis said they had in their outhouse because the family was so big. The introduction of these luxuries required the whole house to be remodeled. “They put in a bathroom and kitchen and septic tank—before, it had basically just been four walls,” Louis said.
“You have to think of it. We had no electricity, no running water, no plumbing, no nothing—it completely changed our lives.”
Productivity on the farm increased for the Wenzlaffs due to many factors, but one major difference was in dairy production. Louis said they had 12 cattle that had previously been milked by hand by the light of two kerosene lanterns. “But then we got a machine
from Sears-Roebuck that milked two cows at one time. It was wonderful, really,” Louis said. Adding a milk cooler also saved enormous quantities of time and energy. The family continued to slowly add appliances and new technologies, but they still lived a rather primitive lifestyle. Louis and his sisters would bathe about once a week, in the wash tub outside in the summertime and in front of the kitchen stove in colder seasons. “We just had to learn all the practical things we had to do to survive,” he said. The Wenzlaffs didn’t have much money, but that didn’t stop them from having fun. Louis said his aunts and uncles would visit every weekend. “Mother would play piano, and Dad would call square dances—that old house would just shake,” he said.
The farming life clearly suits Louis as he has, in some capacity, done it all his life. But he dipped his toes into several other careers as well—usually at the behest of others. Louis attended college for three years but left to work with his maternal grandfather, who was a carpenter, and procured a second job at a local lumberyard. His work at the yard consisted of installing plumbing, heating, and electrical services into local homes. He helped set up the area’s first ready mix concrete plant and delivered the cement to farmers. “As far as practicality, I learned more in those four years than I did in the rest of my career,” he said.
His carpentry days ended when the Kingston Community Schools
The Wenzlaff family farm in the early ‘50s. If you look closely, you can see the light poles installed by REA.
superintendent asked him if he wanted to work for the district. He taught bookkeeping and typing there for four years and was a coach for various sports. (Upon leaving the district, he served on the school board for over 30 years.) While teaching, Louis decided to continue with college and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University...but then a new opportunity arose. “The guy I worked for at the lumberyard was the president of the bank board, and he said, ‘Why don’t you come run the bank?’” Louis said. “I didn’t have much knowledge, but I learned it and I stayed there for 23 years.” He was the CEO until Kingston State Bank was sold, upon which time he moved on to constructing modular home interiors for two years. And then yet another industry came calling for Louis: A former bank customer who was on Sanilac County’s social services board asked Louis if he wanted to oversee the county nursing home. Louis was the administrator of that nursing home for 22 years.
In 2013, Louis finally retired. But he continues to have an impact on the community and stays active in his personal life as well. Louis credits his longevity to “working hard and playing hard.” He and his wife Sharon have five children, two of whom help him out on his hobby farm. And, as mentioned, this is his 47th year of serving on the TEC board, which he says he enjoys for a number of reasons—including the travel benefit. Louis said he was always too busy with work and the farm to go anywhere outside of Michigan, so he’s been grateful for the opportunity to attend national director conferences. Louis certainly has a busier life than the average 87-year-old man, but rest assured, he is looking to slow down. “I might give up golfing,” he said with a laugh.
Louis and his sisters with their parents Elizabeth and Louis Sr.
Louis (middle) and his sisters Shirley (left) and Barbara (right) pose with their Grandpa Wenzlaff.
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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.
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FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Fireworks and summer go hand in hand, and we want you to have a safe, fun-filled season! Keep these safety tips in mind:
Make sure fireworks are legal in your community before using them.
Never buy professionalgrade fireworks. They are not designed for safe consumer use.
Keep small children a safe distance from all fireworks, including sparklers, which can burn at temperatures in excess of 2,000 degrees.
Never reignite or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby to thoroughly soak duds before throwing them away.
Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks to avoid contact injuries or noise reactions.