COUNTRY LINES
WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY
Not hearing is believing.
Many homeowners have come to accept that a noisy A/C is a fact of life. But with WaterFurnace, you don’t have to settle.
Nothing can disrupt a perfect summer afternoon in your backyard more than a loud air conditioner. Geothermal users are never disturbed from outside HVAC noise because there’s no outdoor equipment to make any. All the complicated work takes place underground—out of earshot. With WaterFurnace, your peace and quiet is assured. To learn more, contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today.
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
Big Rapids
Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com
Filion/Bad Axe
Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com
Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg
1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.comam-
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/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517)886-1138 mwphonline.com
Three Rivers
Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Traverse City
Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000 geofurnace.com
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
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark
EDITOR: Christine Dorr
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird
RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman
COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd
PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.
Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.
POSTMASTER:
Send all UAA to CFS.
ASSOCIATION OFFICERS:
Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.
The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
MI CO-OP Community
RECIPE CONTEST
See details on page 10. Favorite Fall Recipes, due Aug. 1; Best Holiday Mains, due Sept. 1 Win a $100 bill credit!
GUEST COLUMN
See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published!
MYSTERY PHOTO
See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
6 SPANNING THE MITTEN: MICHIGAN’S MOST ICONIC BRIDGES
Tracing our state's past through the bridges that built its future.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Sandwiches & Wraps: effortless to make, impossible to resist.
14 ROOTED IN FLAVOR
Michigan’s farm-to-table experience: where the land inspires the menu.
18 GUEST COLUMN
The Generational Dresses: A PIE&G member recounts how heirloom dresses stitched generations together.
Summer Storm Safety
By Allan Berg, President & CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sandy Borowicz, Chairperson
231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2027
Daryl Peterson, Vice Chairperson
989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2027
Sally Knopf, Secretary
989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2027
Brentt Lucas, Treasurer
989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2025
John Brown
231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026
Kurt Krajniak
989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2025
Chris Nagel
616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026
Gerald Smigelski
989-306-3750 • Term Expires 2026
Raymond Wozniak
989-766-1003 • Term Expires 2025
President & CEO: Allan Berg aberg@pieg.com
Co-op Editor: Sommer Poquette spoquette@pieg.com
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 Main Street (M-211) Onaway, MI 49765
Business Office & Billing: 989-733-8515
Toll-Free: 800-423-6634
Gas Emergency Toll-Free: 800-655-8565
PIE&G natural gas rates and charges are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. I love spending more time outdoors grilling with my family, boating, and soaking up the sunshine. But I also know that summer storms can hit fast and hard, sometimes knocking out power and creating unsafe conditions.
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-Op crews are always prepared and standing by to respond should power outages occur in our area. When severe storms cause power disruptions, our line crews take all necessary precautions before working on downed lines.
That said, I encourage you to take a little time to prepare your household now before the next storm arrives. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping the essentials listed below on hand. All supplies should be stored in one accessible place:
• At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and bottled water
• Toiletries and hygiene items like soap, towelettes, and hand sanitizer
• A stocked first aid kit and up-to-date prescriptions
• Flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener, and a battery-powered weather radio or TV
If the power goes out, turn off major appliances, TVs, and computers to protect them from surges. Leave one light on so you’ll know when service is restored.
If you plan to use a generator, be sure it’s rated to meet your power needs and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Never run a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces like a garage, as it can produce dangerous carbon monoxide. Most importantly, turn off the main breaker on your service panel when connecting a generator. This critical step helps protect our line crews and ensures power can be safely restored to your home or business.
I also recommend signing up for emergency alerts through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and checking local news or NOAA Weather Radio during storms. For restoration updates, visit PIE&G’s Facebook page or pieg.com/outage-center. If you need to report an outage, the fastest way is to call 800-423-6634 or use the MYPIE&G mobile app—please don’t report outages on social media.
If you ever see a downed power line, treat it as if it’s live and stay far away. If there’s flooding, avoid walking through areas where power lines may be hidden underwater. I hope we all enjoy a calm, safe summer, but storms are unpredictable, as we learned from the March ice storm. A little preparation now can make a big difference when the weather takes a turn.
Your Board In Action
At its most recent meeting, the PIE&G Board of Directors…
• Approved Resolution 2025-13 Capital Credit Retirements, following Board Policy 203. Capital credits will not be retired at this time
• Approved Resolution 2025-14 Maximum Debt Limit, increasing the limit from $250,000,000 to $400,000,000, effective immediately
• Approved Resolution 2025-15 Colleen Korte Retirement, acknowledging the retirement of Work Order Clerk Colleen Korte after 40 years of service
• Approved March New Memberships
• Accepted Team Reports
Congratulations to Our Newest JMAP Graduates!
Please join us in congratulating four of our own PIE&G lineworkers—Dylan Edgar, Jesse Haske, Isaac McDonald, and Zachary Taylor—on their graduation from the Joint Michigan Apprentice Program (JMAP).
JMAP is a partnership between Wolverine Power Cooperative, IBEW Local 876, and Northwest Lineman College, a leader in utility training nationwide.
Completing the program is a major accomplishment, requiring 3.5 to 4 years, 320 hours of classroom instruction, and 7,000 hours of hands-on training.
We’re incredibly proud of their dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving our members. Congratulations on reaching this important career milestone!
Thank you, Colleen Korte, for 40 Years of Dedicated Service
Congratulations to Colleen Korte on her retirement from Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op after 40 years of loyal and dedicated service. Ms. Korte began her employment with Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op on Aug. 12, 1985, starting as a general secretary and becoming an assistant cashier on Oct. 8, 1985. She became a billing supervisor on Jan. 21, 1991, and then a work order clerk on March 1, 2001. Colleen remained in that position until her retirement on June 2, 2025.
2025 ICE STORM RECOVERY CHARGE
At their recent member regulation meeting held on June 24, a $20 monthly 2025 ice storm recovery charge was approved by the board of directors. This change will be implemented on electric bills, effective September 1, 2025. The unprecedented ice storm in March caused catastrophic damage to PIE&G infrastructure, costing more than $100 million dollars in repairs. These funds will be necessary to cover past and future expenses along with the unexpected loan interest, while we work to secure government disaster relief funding.
We understand this is a burden and we appreciate your understanding of the significant costs and challenges this natural disaster has caused our membership and community.
Holiday Closure
PIE&G will be closed on Monday, Sept. 1, for Labor Day. Members can make payments in the following ways:
• Dropbox at our office
• By phone at 1-855-939-3541
• Online at pieg.com
• Through the MYPIE&G mobile app
For emergencies, please call 1-800-423-6634.
Pictured left to right: Samual Braun, Eric Leach, Isaac McDonald, Zachary Taylor, Jesse Haske, Dylan Edgar, Richard Crane.
Spanning the Mitten Michigan’s Most Iconic Bridges
Michigan’s unique geography—with over 11,000 inland lakes, 120 major rivers, and borders on four Great Lakes—has made bridges essential to connecting people, peninsulas, and even countries. The state boasts more than 11,000 bridges, each with a distinct story and role in Michigan’s landscape.
International Bridges
Three major bridges connect Michigan to Canada. The Ambassador Bridge , opened in 1929, links Detroit and Windsor and remains the busiest international land border crossing in North America.
The Blue Water Bridge , built in 1938 and twinned in 1997, connects Port Huron to Sarnia, Ontario.
In the Upper Peninsula, the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge spans the St. Mary’s River, linking the twin cities of Sault Ste. Marie in Michigan and Ontario. The bridge overlooks the Soo Locks, a critical shipping passage between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes.
Iconic Michigan Spans
The most famous bridge in Michigan is the Mackinac Bridge , also known as “Mighty Mac” or “Big Mac.” Opened in 1957, it spans fi ve miles across the Straits of Mackinac, linking Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas. It remains one of the longest suspension bridges in the Western Hemisphere.
Opened in 1959, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge connects Houghton and Hancock in the Upper Peninsula. It’s the world’s heaviest and widest double-deck vertical lift bridge. In winter, its lower deck is lowered for snowmobiles while vehicles continue on the upper level.
Miniature and Replica Bridges
Several pedestrian bridges celebrate the Mighty Mac. In St. Louis, the 120-foot Mini Mac Bridge spans a pond shaped like the Lower Peninsula.
In Reed City’s Rambadt Park, the Little Mac Bridge is a 150-foot-long wooden suspension bridge crossing the Hersey River.
Near Mesick, the Little Mac Footbridge —at 246 feet—is the longest wooden suspension bridge in the Lower Peninsula and links the Manistee River Trail with the North Country Trail.
Parks with Notable Bridges
Historic Bridge Park in Battle Creek features restored 19th- and early 20th-century truss bridges, picnic areas, trails, and educational displays.
McCourtie Park in Cement City has 17 whimsical concrete bridges designed in faux bois style, mimicking wood textures. The park sits on the former estate of cement magnate W.H.L. McCourtie.
In Croswell, the Swinging Bridge built in 1905—is a 139-foot pedestrian bridge made of wire cables and wooden planks. It was originally constructed by the Michigan Sugar Company for worker access.
Deerfi eld Nature Park in Isabella County includes four bridges: two swinging suspension bridges, the Lewis Pontiac Bridge, and the Fisher Annex Covered Bridge, which was rebuilt after a 1995 fi re.
Covered Bridges
Michigan is home to several historical covered bridges. White’s Covered Bridge , built in 1867 over the Flat River near Smyrna, was rebuilt after a 2013 fi re.
The Ada Covered Bridge , also erected in 1867, spans the Thornapple River and was restored in 1979.
Mackinac Bridge
North of Lowell, the Fallasburg Covered Bridge (1871) is part of a preserved historic village and is still open to vehicle traffi c.
The Langley Covered Bridge , built in 1887 near Centreville, is the longest covered bridge in Michigan at 282 feet and remains open to vehicles.
In the 1960s, Pierce Stocking designed a scenic bridge that’s now part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It was reconstructed in 1986.
In Frankenmuth, the Holz Brucke Covered Bridge (1979) crosses the Cass River and is open to both vehicles and pedestrians, complementing the town’s Bavarian charm.
Unique and Scenic Crossings
In Midland, The Tridge is a threeway wooden footbridge built in 1981 where the Chippewa and Tittabawassee Rivers meet, linking three parks and paths.
At Boyne Mountain, the SkyBridge is the world’s longest timbertowered suspension bridge at 1,200 feet. It includes a glass fl oor section suspended 118 feet above a forested valley.
The Cut River Bridge , a cantilevered deck truss bridge along US-2 in the Upper Peninsula, towers 147 feet above the gorge. Trails and 230 stairs below lead to the Lake Michigan shoreline.
The Cooley Bridge in Manistee County spans the Pine River at 613 feet and 95 feet high. Built in 1934, it was recognized for its beauty and includes picnic areas and stairways to the river.
Whether they’re soaring above rivers, swaying beneath your feet, or tucked into scenic parks, Michigan’s bridges are more than just pathways—they’re part of our state’s charm, history, and adventure. So, next time you’re roadtripping or hiking, keep an eye out— you never know when you’ll stumble upon one of these architectural gems spanning the mitten.
Scan the QR code to watch a video of our
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.
Bridge Tour.
Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge
Fallasburg Covered Bridge, Lowell
Mini Mac Bridge, St. Louis
The Tridge, Midland
Upgrade Your Summer With An Electric Vehicle
Drivers across the U.S. are switching to electric vehicles (EVs). EV sales totaled 1.3 million in 20241, setting a record propelled by a surge in sales during the final quarter. The nationwide switch from gas to electric is powered by a number of factors, all of which should be considered by those in the market for a new vehicle this summer.
Financial Incentives
Presque Isle Electric & Gas members can save on upfront costs through the Energy Optimization (EO) program. Rebates are available for the purchase of a qualifying new or used EV and ENERGY STAR ® -certified level 2 chargers. Federal tax credits may be available for additional savings— visit irs.gov for the most up-to-date information.
less maintenance than conventional vehicles (no more oil changes!).
Stable Fuel Costs
Over the past decade, average annual gasoline prices have ranged from as low as $2.26 to more than $4 a gallon2 . In contrast, electricity prices remain more stable, which can help keep your budget on track.
Environmentally Friendly
EVs are undeniably better for the environment than their gas counterparts when driving, as they emit zero tailpipe emissions. Even when taking into account manufacturing and charging, EVs still come out on top. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, over the course of their driving lifetimes, EVs will create fewer carbon emissions than gasoline-burning cars under nearly any conditions.3 Reduced emissions and improved air quality can also help with health conditions such as asthma.
Better Performance
Electric motors are much quieter, smoother, and zippier than gasoline-powered engines. See for yourself—take an EV for a test drive this summer! And don’t forget to confirm your vehicle qualifies for Energy Optimization rebates.
Find rebate details and more ways to save through the PIE&G Energy Optimization program at pieg.com/eo
Cheaper to Operate
Charging your EV is typically cheaper than filling up your gas-powered car, especially with PIE&G’s competitive rates. EVs also have fewer moving parts, which means
1 https://www.kbb.com/car-news/america-set-ev-sales-record-in-2024/
2 https://www.eia.gov/dnav/pet/hist/LeafHandler.ashx?n=pet&s=emm_epm0_pte_nus_dpg&f=m
3 https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/are-electric-vehicles-definitely-better-climate-gas-powered-cars
MICHIGAN’S WATERFALLS
1. MOST VOTES Mini but mighty— Dow Gardens. Kathy Scoon
2. Munising. Sandra Dunham
3. We spent 2½ years building this 40′ waterfall in our backyard. Recycle the pond water, under ground, with 2 pumps. Virginia Janiszewski
4. Jaxen thinking long and hard about his decision to jump in the Ocqueoc Falls. Robin Styers
5. Horseshoe Falls, Munising, Michigan. Gloria Zalewski
6. Sable Falls, just outside of Grand Marais. Kristina Ferguson
7. Tahquamenon Falls. Annette Limban
Submit your Michigan’s Bridges photos by Aug. 25 for the October issue! Submit your best photo and encourage others to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our photo contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites.
To enter the contest, visit pieg.com/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2025, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2026 bill.
SANDWICHES & WRAPS
Effortless to make, impossible to resist—perfect bites for any time of day.
WINNING RECIPE!
SUMMER HERB CHICKEN SALAD WRAPS
Rachel Smith, Midwest Energy
1 pound skin-on/bone-in chicken breasts or thighs
2 teaspoons salt (to season chicken)
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (to season chicken)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 green onions, thinly sliced 1–2 celery stalks, fi nely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, minced
½ teaspoon fresh tarragon, minced (optional)
4 large tortillas
• romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. Add the chicken to the baking sheet and season well with salt and pepper; make sure to get under the skin and on all sides. Drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven (35–40 minutes for chicken breasts, or 45–55 minutes for chicken thighs), until internal temperature reaches 155 F. Remove from oven, transfer to plate, and allow to cool for 15 minutes. (Note: By removing at 155 F, the temperature will continue to rise with carry-over cooking.) Once cool enough to handle, remove the meat from skin and bones. Cut up into pieces about ½–¾ inches thick. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, green onions, celery, dill, basil, and tarragon. Add the chicken pieces. Slowly stir ingredients together. Add additional salt and pepper to taste. Place in the fridge for 2 hours before serving. Or, if serving right away, place the bowl in the freezer for 15 minutes to allow it to chill. Spoon chicken salad mixture onto tortillas and top with romaine. Roll up. Makes about 2 cups chicken salad. You can easily double recipe.
Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos
RECIPE CONTEST Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Favorite Fall Recipes, due Aug. 1; Best Holiday Mains, 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
MINI HAM SANDWICHES
Deanne Quain, Great Lakes Energy
12 King’s Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls
1 pound deli ham, shaved
½ pound Swiss cheese
1 stick butter
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Jack Daniel Dijon mustard
Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut entire pack of rolls horizontally. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, place bottom halves of rolls evenly. Cover with ham and cheese and place top halves of rolls on top. To a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter and melt. Add the Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, brown sugar, and mustard, and heat while stirring. Pour liquid over sandwiches and bake covered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Makes 12 sandwiches.
BAKED MONTE CRISTO SANDWICH
Mary Ellen Wynes, Homeworks Tri-County
2 eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 slices bread
½ pound sliced baked ham
½ ounce Gruyere or Swiss cheese slices
¼ cup strawberry jam
• powdered sugar, for serving
Preheat oven to 450 F. Prepare a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. In a shallow dish (large enough to fi t a sandwich), beat the eggs with the milk and vanilla. Set aside. Assemble two slices of the bread with ham and cheese. Spread the other two slices with strawberry jam. Slightly compress sandwich. Dip both sides of the sandwich in the egg wash for 5 seconds on each side.
Transfer to the baking sheet. Bake 6 minutes, fl ip, and bake 5 more minutes, until browned and the cheese has melted. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
WARM TURKEY PESTO SANDWICHES
Mary Card, Great Lakes Energy
6 burger or sub buns
6 slices deli turkey meat
6 slices provolone cheese
3 tablespoons prepared basil pesto
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon melted butter
Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Separate the burger or sub buns. Fold the turkey and cheese to fi t the bottom of buns, tearing or cutting to fi t. In a small bowl, combine the basil pesto and mayonnaise; stir until combined. Spread a thin layer over the six bun tops. Place bun tops on and transfer the sandwiches to the baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter and heat 8–10 minutes or until cheese melts. Serves 6.
SOUTHWEST CHICKEN PANINI
Nancy Popa, Cherryland Electric
2 cups fresh cilantro, leaves and stems, loosely packed
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and fi nely chopped
• juice of ½ lime
⅛ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon canned chipotle chili in adobo, minced
½ teaspoon sugar
4 slices hearty white or wheat sourdough bread, ½″ per slice
¼ cup butter, softened
2 ounces pepper jack or Havarti cheese, thinly sliced
3 ounces rotisserie chicken, torn into large pieces
In a food processor, blend cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Slowly add oil to form a pesto paste. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chipotle chili, and sugar. Lightly butter the outside of each bread slice. Spread mayo on two slices and pesto on the other two. Top pesto sides with cheese and chicken, then close with mayo slices. Grill in a panini press or skillet for 3–4 minutes, checking for doneness. Makes 2 paninis.
Who Owns What?
Understanding Electric Equipment Responsibilities
By Abby Berry
As July rolls in with longer days and rising temperatures, the potential for severe weather increases. Summer storms can arrive quickly and hit hard, sometimes causing significant damage to essential electric equipment throughout our community.
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-Op (PIE&G) is always prepared to respond swiftly to outages and restore power safely, but it is also important for homeowners to understand which parts of the electric system are their responsibility and which are maintained by us at the co-op. Understanding these key differences can help speed up repairs and ensure everyone stays safe when the weather turns rough.
PIE&G is responsible for maintaining and repairing the equipment and lines that run to your home, including utility poles, distribution power lines, electric meters, and pad-mounted transformers.
PIE&G members are responsible for all electrical equipment from the electric meter to their home or other buildings. This includes:
• Underground service lines running from the meter to any structure such as a house, garage, or pole barn. These underground lines are the member’s responsibility to maintain and repair.
• Exterior electrical components such as the weatherhead, service drop attachment, meter base, and the service mast (conduit) mounted on the outside of the building.
These responsibilities apply to both residential and business members.
If any equipment that you (the homeowner) are responsible for is damaged, please call a licensed electrician to conduct the repairs. A professional has the experience and
know-how to assess and manage these types of repairs.
When severe weather damages electrical equipment, it’s important to note that any necessary repairs to the homeowner’s equipment must be conducted before PIE&G crews can restore power to your home or business. By understanding the equipment you are responsible for, the repair and restoration process will be smoother and faster.
Our community takes great pride in the beautiful trees and landscaping that contribute to the natural beauty where we live; however, regular trimming is essential to ensure reliable electric service and minimize damage from severe weather. PIE&G regularly trims trees throughout our service territory to improve service reliability. If you
spot a tree limb that is obstructing a distribution power line outside your home, please call PIE&G so we can trim those limbs and maintain those lines.
Any overgrown limbs or vegetation around the service line is the homeowner’s responsibility, and in these cases, please call a professional tree trimming service to assist.
By working together to understand the essential equipment that powers daily life, we can all be better prepared to start the repair and restoration process if severe weather impacts our community.
If you have any questions about your electrical equipment, we’re here to help. Please contact PIE&G at 800-423-6634.
“Why Is A Service Charge Included On My Bill?“
Presque Isle Electric & Gas has listed an availability charge (service charge) on your electric and gas bills for years. Often, people ask why they have to pay an availability charge when they received no service. Our answer to that is simple: This charge represents the cost to always have electric and gas distribution services available to you, even if you are not using electricity or gas.
The cooperative incurs numerous costs to maintain our distribution systems that are not related to the consumption of energy. Some of these costs include taxes, depreciation, and insurance on the equipment in the field, plus the maintenance of our lines and substations that supply your service. The cost to maintain poles, wires (overhead and underground), and/or transformers that are in place
“What Is My Monthly Bill Frequency?”
Please be advised that all electric bills are now at a monthly billing frequency. If you were previously at an annual billing frequency, you received your final annual bill last summer. All current and future electric bills will be generated and mailed monthly. Payment is also due monthly.
At the March 28, 2023, board meeting, the board of directors revised the Electric Tariffs to accommodate for this transition of all accounts from an annual to monthly billing frequency. The language in the tariff reads, “All Member-Consumers taking service under Schedule S may, at the
Cooperative’s discretion and upon a 45-day notice, be billed once per month for the monthly availability and energy charges if the Cooperative is able to obtain a meter reading though its AMI system. If readings are not obtainable through the AMI system, at the Cooperative’s discretion, the account may be billed annually.”
Over the last few years, we have been implementing our AMI for our electric meters. The AMI system has made it possible to align all our accounts to a monthly billing frequency. The AMI system also allows us to better serve our membership by providing
to serve your residence do not go up when you use more electricity or gas, and those costs do not go down when you use less electricity or gas. These costs remain relatively constant. It makes sense for us to collect the revenue needed to recover these costs in the same way.
daily meter readings, faster outage notifications, and enhanced billing data.
We encourage all members to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments. A monthly budget option is also available. Taking advantage of these services will make receiving and paying your bills a more convenient process. Please visit pieg.smarthub.coop to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments today. Please call our Member Services department at 800-423-6634 if you have any questions.
Rooted in Flavor
Michigan’s Farm-to-Table Experience
Where the Land Inspires the Menu
By Emily Haines Lloyd
The farm-to-table movement runs deep in Michigan, where a rich agricultural landscape meets a strong spirit of collaboration between farms and restaurants. Across the state, many establishments don’t just partner with local growers—they are the growers, operating their own farms to ensure every ingredient is fresh, seasonal, and full of Michigan flavor.
You don’t have to look far to fi nd great examples—some are right within our electric cooperative communities.
Farm Club farmclubtc.com
Farm Club: Growing Connection in Traverse City
A member of Cherryland Electric Cooperative, Farm Club near Traverse City is more than just a restaurant—it’s a farm, a bakery, a brewery, and a community gathering place. Here, chefs build their menus around what’s ripe in their fi elds, shaping meals that refl ect the rhythm of the seasons. Heirloom beans simmer into rich soups, and just-picked corn becomes a fragrant pozole. Everything is guided by the land’s natural cadence.
A Taste of Place
This hyper-local approach embraces the concept of terroir—the idea that flavor is shaped by the environment. Soil, water, and climate combine to give ingredients a distinct character, and in Michigan, that character is unmistakable. From juicy summer berries to earthy autumn squash, our state’s seasonal bounty inspires menus that evolve with the harvest.
In Suttons Bay, another Cherryland Electric member, 9 Bean Rows, exemplifi es this connection to place. Part farm, part bakery, and part café, the business grows its own produce, bakes artisanal
bread on-site, and runs community programs that promote healthy eating. Their signature sourdough and sea salt fennel loaves embody the taste of Michigan—right down to the well water used in the baking process.
Pond Hill Farm: A Full-Sensory Experience
On 238 scenic acres near Harbor Springs, Pond Hill Farm—a Great Lakes Energy member—offers an immersive farm-to-table experience. Visitors can tour the fi elds, sample beer and wine crafted from the farm’s own hops and grapes, and savor wood-fi red pizza made with fresh, homegrown ingredients. Even in winter, Pond Hill keeps the connection strong with intimate supper clubs featuring root vegetables and greens harvested from heated hoophouses.
But Pond Hill’s mission goes beyond food. From barnyard animals to seasonal festivals, the farm invites guests of all ages to engage with agriculture fi rsthand and experience the work— and wonder—behind every meal.
Food That Builds Community
In Michigan, farm-to-table isn’t just about eating well—it’s about creating stronger, more connected communities. By sourcing ingredients locally, restaurants support nearby farmers, strengthen regional economies, and create welcoming spaces where people come together.
At 9 Bean Rows, the impact extends into schools. Their food program supplies fresh produce to students in Leelanau County and Traverse City, introducing young people to nutritious, local food and helping them understand where it comes from.
Similarly, Farm Club and Pond Hill Farm host events like farm tours, pizza nights, and seasonal dinners, transforming food into a shared experience that brings neighbors, families, and visitors together.
More Than a Meal
In Michigan, farm-to-table is more than a dining trend—it’s a celebration of land, people, and place. It’s about honoring farmers, cultivating community, and creating food that’s rooted in care and connection.
Every dish tells a story—of the soil that nourished it, the hands that harvested it, and the community that gathers around it.
“ IN MICHIGAN, FARM-TO-TABLE ISN’T JUST ABOUT EATING WELL—IT’S ABOUT CREATING STRONGER, MORE CONNECTED COMMUNITIES.”
Understanding Your Electric Bill Why It Spikes and What You Can Do About It
By Sommer Poquette
When a high electric bill arrives, it’s easy to feel frustrated—especially when usage doesn’t seem out of the ordinary. But electricity use is often less obvious than we think. From phantom power to seasonal spikes and storm-related patterns, a lot is happening behind the scenes. Here’s a breakdown of what affects your energy usage, what your meter tracks, and tips to manage your monthly bill.
Phantom Power: The Energy You Didn’t Know You’re Using Even without actively using a device, it could still be drawing power. This is called phantom usage, and it’s more common than you might think. TVs, game consoles, phone chargers, cable boxes, and coffee makers often stay on standby and continue to draw electricity. While each device may only use a small amount of power, it adds up, especially if you have a home full of gadgets.
After the Outage: Your Appliances Are Working Overtime
After a power outage, your appliances don’t flip back on quietly— they often work harder to catch up. Think about it:
• Refrigerators need to cool back down after warming up.
• Furnaces and air conditioners may work overtime to restore your home to the desired temperature.
• Water heaters, well pumps, and sump pumps may all kick into gear simultaneously.
This creates a brief but intense surge in electricity usage.
TIP #2
Peak Usage Times: When Demand Spikes
Some appliances are naturally heavy users—dryers, ovens, space heaters, and pool pumps are common culprits. Energy use spikes when many of these operate simultaneously (or during peak evening hours).
This peak demand (in kilowatts) shows how much strain your household puts on the electric grid. Even if your overall usage is moderate, a short period of heavy use can raise your bill.
Your Meter: What It’s Measuring
Our meters are programmed to record usage (kilowatt hours or “kWh”), current and voltage, peak demand (kW), and the date and time of the reading, as well as other parameters necessary for accounts taking service under net metering, or other PIE&G-approved tariffs and riders. The meters will also provide diagnostic information, such as the number of times the meter has experienced a loss of power for any reason and the duration of any power outages experienced. Our meters DO NOT communicate with any devices in your home.
Seasonal and Weekend Spikes
Your usage patterns may change with the seasons:
• Summer brings air conditioning, fans, and dehumidifiers.
• Winter may mean electric heaters, space heaters, and heated floors.
• Weekends and holidays often see higher usage from being home more, entertaining, and cooking.
If you’re on budgeted billing, your actual use may not be accurately reflected until your meter is reread.
During Storms: No Use, No Charge
Here’s one piece of good news—if your power is out during a storm, you’re not being charged for electricity. Since the meter isn’t recording usage, there’s no energy charge for that time. However, your fixed availability charge (the cost of having access to electricity) still applies since it covers infrastructure and maintenance costs.
Energy-Saving Tips
TIP #3
Monitor your usage regularly on the MYPIE&G mobile application. This helps avoid surprises and lets you spot patterns early.
Try to space out the use of large appliances. Don’t run your dryer, dishwasher, and oven simultaneously.
Understanding your electric meter and how your home uses power puts you in control. You can reduce your usage and bill without sacrificing comfort with a few mindful changes.
To manage your electric bill more effectively, try these practical steps:
Wash clothes in cold water and air dry when possible
Switch to LED lighting
Reduce water heater temperature to 120°F
Unplug unused electronics or use smart power strips
Adjust your thermostat a few degrees, especially when away from home
Where In Michigan Is This?
MYSTERY PHOTO
Win a $100 energy bill credit! Identify the correct location of the photo above by July 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community
May 2025 WINNER!
Our Mystery Photo winner is Debra Anthony, a Thumb Electric Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Statue of Liberty Torch Sculpture in Rogers City, Michigan. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.
The Generational Dresses
By Sharon Libich, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member
In 1978, I found my wedding dress in the pages of bridal magazines— a far cry from today’s online searches. I never imagined that decades later, its delicate train would become part of my granddaughter’s First Holy Communion dress.
Family tradition has always been woven into the fabric of our lives. My godmother hand-sewed my Christening gown in 1959. That same dress was worn by my daughters in 1981 and 1987, and again by my granddaughter Hailey when she was born in 2015.
Our Communion dress holds a similar legacy. I wore it in 1967, my daughters in 1988 and 1994, and Hailey in 2022. Wanting a full-length dress, she asked for something special—and I knew just what to do. I carefully repurposed the 5-foot train from my wedding gown.
Reassembling the dress was truly a labor of love, but seeing Hailey in it made every stitch worth it. The tradition continues—and the dress lives on.
GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published! Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.
