JulyAug 2025 Thumb

Thumb Electric Cooperative

July/August 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

r o v a l F n i d e Root Michigan’s Farm-to-Table Experience Where the Land Inspires the Menu

Annual Meeting Highlights

TEC Scholarship Winners

TEC Youth Tour Representative

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT*

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YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com

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

Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com

Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com

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

Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/

Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.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-

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

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

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

The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc 1. ENERGY STAR rated units qualify for 30% through 2030 and 26% through 2032 and 22% through 2033 .

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

July/August 2025 Vol. 45, No. 7 /michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

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

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

POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: 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.

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CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com

MI CO-OP Community

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative.

See page 4 for contact information.

See details on page 10. Favorite Fall Recipes, due Aug. 1; Best Holiday Mains, due Sept. 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

RECIPE CONTEST

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

14

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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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THUMB ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2231 Main Street Ubly, MI 48475-0157 1-800-327-0166 or 989-658-8571 E-mail: tec@tecmi.coop

BOARD OF DIRECTORS HURON COUNTY Randall Dhyse, Treasurer District 1 • 989-658-6013 Craig Osentoski, Director District 2 • 989-658-6003 Erica Weidman, Director District 3 • 989-658-6004 SANILAC COUNTY Kim Nunn, Vice President District 1 • 989-658-6005 Mike Briolat, Secretary District 2 • 989-658-6006 Duane Kursinsky, Director District 3 • 989-658-6007 TUSCOLA COUNTY Louis Wenzlaff, Director District 1 • 989-658-6008 Jonathan Findlay, President District 2 • 989-658-6010 Matt Sommer, Director District 3 • 989-658-6012 Brad Essenmacher, General Manager Marketing and Communications: Mitch Hirn, CCC, mhirn@tecmi.coop

PAYMENT STATIONS Huron County Bad Axe—Northstar Bank Pigeon—Northstar Bank Tuscola County Akron—Northstar Bank Caro—Northstar Bank Mayville—Mayville State Bank Millington—Mayville State Bank Thumb Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

HURON

TEC Holds 87th Annual Meeting

By Brad Essenmacher, General Manager

Jonathan Findlay, president of the board of directors, opened the 87th Annual Meeting of TEC members held on June 7 at the Thumb Octagon Barn. An estimated 300 people attended the meeting, which was highlighted by the election of three direc­tors and numerous entertainment activities featured as a part of TEC’s Member Appreciation Day/Annual Meeting.

Elected to three-year terms in District 1 were Randall Dhyse, Huron County; Kim Nunn, Sanilac County; and Louis Wenzlaff, Tuscola County.

President Findlay introduced TEC’s attorney Kyle O’Mara and members of the current TEC Board of Directors including Erica Weidman, Randall Dhyse, and Craig Osentoski, Huron County; Kim Nunn, Mike Briolat, and Duane Kursinsky, Sanilac County; and Louis Wenzlaff and Matt Sommer, Tuscola County. Also introduced was General Manager Brad Essenmacher.

President Findlay thanked the current TEC workforce for their dedication and commitment.

TUSCOLA

SANILAC

tecmi.coop

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JULY/AUGUST 2025

/thumbelectric

@thumbelectric

TEC’s board president, Jonathan Findlay, highlighted the following areas: • TEC’s total utility plant with both the electric and fiber increased just over $34 million from 2023 to 2024. These expenditures in capital improvements were in large part to our TEC Fiber buildout project, but also included rebuilding identified circuits of aging poles and wire, upgrading substation equipment, building new electric services, upgrading existing electric services, and the purchase of trucks/vehicles, office equipment, and other investments that improve our efficiency and enhance our overall system’s reliability.

• President Findlay presented the following 2024 financial information. TEC and TEC Fiber’s combined 2024 operating statement showed operating revenues of $38,642,305 and expenses of $32,265,851. These expenses are the costs to maintain and operate the electric and fiber optic system. The resulting operating margin for 2024 was just over $1.7 million. The cooperative also earned additional revenue on shortterm investments, rental income, subsidiary income, and patronage capital from other cooperative organizations.

Total margins allocated for 2024 will be $2,895,326, pending future board action. Members’ patronage capital accounts will be allocated approximately 7.5 cents on each dollar paid by TEC members in 2024. This is the great thing about being a member of a cooperative.

These margins are returned back to the members.

• Discussed power supply reliability and the market changes over the past five years. Older cheap sources of generation are being retired, leaving a gap in supply.

Recent energy legislation has put a strain on affordability, but a recent agreement to become a member of Wolverine Power Cooperative will make future solutions more economical. Wolverine President and CEO Eric Baker introduced himself to the membership.

• The cooperative continues to work with its statewide and national organizations to ensure that issues that may affect the availability, reliability, and affordability of electricity to its membership are heard by our elected officials in Lansing and Washington, D.C. • The cooperative continues to support/promote America’s Electric Cooperative PAC, formerly known as “ACRE.” All TEC members can participate directly in this national PAC that represents cooperative members throughout the United States on legislative matters that may affect cooperatives negatively.

• TEC continues its maintenance program, including aggressive right-of-way clearing, vegetation spraying, pole testing, and other system improvement pro­grams to improve reliability of bringing service to members.

• TEC continues to offer a full slate of programs and services to its members to help them become more energy efficient and save money.

• The cooperative uses some members’ patronage over time to make capital improvements. It isn’t expected that general retirements will be issued this year due to low equity with ongoing fiber construction. Once construction winds down, equity is projected to rise and retirements would then continue. Since patronage payments began, TEC has paid back over $13.8 million to its members.

• State Rep. Greg Alexander, State Rep. Phil Green, and Muhammed Smidi, U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain’s constituent services representative, were introduced by new Michigan Electric Cooperative Association CEO John Kran and briefly spoke to the membership. All were recognized for their support of Thumb Electric Cooperative and the rural electric program.

• The cooperative paid $2,159,996 in property taxes to schools and other governmental agencies in Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties in 2024.

• In closing, General Manager Essenmacher urged members to continue their strong interest in Thumb Electric Cooperative, to stay engaged, follow TEC on Facebook, to be patient as the TEC Fiber buildout makes its way to their homes, and thanked them for their support.

TEC’s general manager, Brad Essenmacher, highlighted the following: • Discussed that the multi-year TEC Fiber project has close to 1,500 miles of fiber placed between overhead and underground. We have all but two substations lit up in different stages of service. All member areas are now active except O’Connel and Watertown substation areas, which are expected to be active mid-summer. TEC just passed 4,070 subscribers.

• The employees have reached six years without a No Loss Time injury. TEC employees take pride in getting the lights back on as quick as we can without compromising safety.

After the business meeting, a lunch was served, which was followed by entertainment for all family members with a hot-line demonstration, barrel rides, candy drop, face painting, and other family activities.

In action taken after the annual meeting, the board of directors elected Jonathan Findlay as president, Kim Nunn as vice president, Mike Briolat as secretary, and Randall Dhyse as treasurer.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

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

Mackinac Bridge

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

Iconic Michigan Spans

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 most famous bridge in Michigan is the Mackinac Bridge, also known as “Mighty Mac” or “Big Mac.” Opened in 1957, it spans five 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.

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.

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JULY/AUGUST 2025

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.

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.

Deerfield 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 fire.

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 fire.

The Ada Covered Bridge, also erected in 1867, spans the Thornapple River and was restored in 1979.

North of Lowell, the Fallasburg Covered Bridge (1871) is part of a preserved historic village and is still open to vehicle traffic.

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.

Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge

Mini Mac Bridge, St. Louis

Fallasburg Covered Bridge, Lowell

The Tridge, Midland

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 floor 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 Bridge Tour.

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

/cassondra.wanders

@cassondrawanders

@cassondrawanders

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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THE CLEAN ENERGY BALANCING ACT Shrinking electric supply, growing electric demand

THE BROADENING GAP BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND Rising Electric Demand

As people convert to electric vehicles and electric heat, Michigan's electric load will grow dramatically.

Diminishing Electric Supply

Utilities are under increasing pressure to retire coal plants faster than they can replace them, resulting in a reduction of power supply reserves.

5 million

50%

households could be powered by the amount of coal and natural gas Michigan has slated for retirement over the next 10 years.

increase in electric demand is projected for Michigan over the next 15 years.

[CO-OP NAME] IS A ENERGY, BUT THE GROWING SIGNALING CAUTION: WE SUPPORT CLEAN IMBALANCE BETWEEN SUPPLY CLEAN ENERGY LEADER EARLY THREAT PLANT CLOSURES & BLACKOUT RISKS AND DEMAND POSES A SIGNIFICANT TO ELECTRIC RELIABILITY The clean energy transition is underway and TEC leads by example, providing members with energy that is 60% carbon free.

Nearly 2x the regional average

60% carbon free

TEC Fuel Mix

vs.

35% carbon

Policies mandating a shift to high amounts of intermittent, weatherdependent energy sources are accelerating the premature retirement of traditional, reliable generation.

66%

of North America is currently facing an elevated risk of blackouts. Experts warn within five years, Michigan and surrounding states will be at high risk of blackouts.

88%

free

Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

High Risk Elevated Risk Normal Risk

of the time, Michigan imports energy from outside its borders to keep the lights on for homes and businesses.

We are collaborating with our power supplier Wolverine Power Cooperative, the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, and fellow electric cooperatives in Michigan to drive innovation, make strategic investments, and advocate for a seamless transition that gives equal weight to affordability, environmental impact, and electric reliability.

Sources:

MPSC Fuel Mix Disclosure Data NERC Summer & Winter Reliability Assessments, 2023-2024 NERC Long-Term Reliability Assessment, 2023 ITC 2022 Summer Review MISO Futures Report, 2021 Form EIA-860, 2022 (https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia860/)

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

MICHIGAN’S WATERFALLS MOST VOTES

1. M OST VOTES Powerhouse Falls.

Robert Daniels 2. L ower Falls on the Silver River. Kristen Daniels 3. U .P. beauty. Lisa Lewis 4. Tahquamenon Falls.

Tiffany Cantrell 5. P ure Michigan. Chris Ruth

1

2

6. R apid River Falls in winter.

April Taylor

Enter for a chance to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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5

4

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Submit Your College Towns

by July 25! Submit your best photo and encourage friends to vote! The photo with the most votes will be featured in Country Lines, along with other favorites, in the Sept./ Oct. issue.

Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit! To enter the contest, visit tecmi.coop/ photo-contest. 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 December 2025 bill.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

SANDWICHES & WR APS

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, finely 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.

10 JULY/AUGUST 2025

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 fit 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, flip, 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 finely 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

EXHAUSTED

from doing lawn work with

GAS-POWERED equipment?

Make the switch to battery-powered lawn equipment and get money back from Thumb Electric Cooperative’s energy rebate program.

Equipment Type

Rebate Amount*

Purchase Price*

Battery-powered lawn mower

$100

Pretax purchase price of $200–$400

$300

Pretax purchase price of $401–$1,000

$500

Pretax purchase price of $1,001 and up

$25

Pretax purchase price less than $100

$50

Pretax purchase price of $101–$200

$100

Pretax purchase price of $201 and up

Lawn care equipment (battery powered) including edgers, trimmers, chainsaws, pole saws, power washers, and leaf blowers

*Lower of rebate amount or half of purchase price will be rebated.

Download rebate form at tecmi.coop/rebates-programs

TEC Fiber Customers:

Call Miss Dig Before You Break Ground

As TEC Fiber internet continues to expand across neighborhoods and communities, more homeowners and contractors are undertaking projects that involve digging—whether it’s planting trees, installing fences, or landscaping. But before you grab a shovel, there’s one essential step that every fiber internet customer should take: calling Miss Dig.

Miss Dig is Michigan’s free utility notification system that helps prevent damage to underground utility lines.

They can be reached by dialing 811 or by searching www.missdig811.org. When you call or file a request online at least three business days before digging, utility companies come out to mark the locations of underground lines, including high-speed fiber cables.

Why is this so important for TEC fiber customers?

To begin, you can prevent potential service outages. A single accidental cut can knock out internet service, not just for your home, but potentially for your entire neighborhood.

This can disrupt remote work, streaming, online learning, and more.

Next, you can avoid costly repairs. If you damage a fiber line because you didn’t contact Miss Dig, you could be held financially responsible for the repair costs. These can run into thousands of dollars, depending on the extent of the damage.

You can also ensure safety by calling Miss Dig. Fiber lines often run alongside other utilities, like gas and electricity.

Calling Miss Dig helps prevent dangerous situations that can lead to serious injury or even death.

Finally, it’s the law. In Michigan, calling 811 before digging is not just a recommendation—it’s a legal requirement.

Compliance protects you, your property, and your community. Calling Miss Dig is free and can help you avoid costly fines.

In conclusion, fiber internet brings incredible speed and reliability, but it also comes with a responsibility. Whether you’re digging deep or just a few inches, always contact Miss Dig before you start. It’s free, easy, and it could save you from major headaches down the road. For more information, go to www.missdig811.org.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

n i d e t o Ro F lavor

Michigan’s Farm-to-Table Experience Where the Land Inspires the Menu

By Emily Haines Lloyd

T

he 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 find 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 fields, shaping meals that reflect 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, exemplifies this connection to place. Part farm, part bakery, and part café, the business grows its own produce, bakes artisanal

14 JULY/AUGUST 2025

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 fields, sample beer and wine crafted from the farm’s own hops and grapes, and savor wood-fired 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.

9 Bean Rows 9beanrows.com

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 firsthand 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.

“IN MICHIGAN, FARM-TO-TABLE ISN’T JUST ABOUT EATING WELL—IT’S ABOUT CREATING STRONGER, MORE CONNECTED COMMUNITIES.”

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.

Pond Hill Farm pondhill.com

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Youth Tour Student Representative Chosen Preston Rancour from Millington was selected to represent Thumb Electric Cooperative during the 2025 Youth Tour in Washington D.C. The trip lasted from June 18 to June 23. Preston, who will be a junior this upcoming fall at Millington High School, joined student representatives from cooperatives all across the country for the event. During their time in D.C., the students learned the basics about electric co-ops, toured the U.S. Capitol and other national landmarks, met with lawmakers, attended a Broadway show, and much more!

If you know a high school sophomore or junior who is interested in applying for next year’s Youth Tour event, please watch for information in the fall issues of Country Lines magazine, the TEC Facebook page, our website at www.tecmi.coop, or at www.cooperativeyouthtour.com.

Scan the QR code below to fill out the 2026 Youth Tour Interest Form. This will make sure you are the first to be notified when the application for the 2026 Youth Tour is live.

TEC 2025 Scholarship Winners

This spring, the TEC Board of Directors approved the offering of three $1,500 scholarships to qualified graduates in the Thumb area.

Ethan Maurer: Ethan is a 2025 graduate of Ubly High School. In the fall, he plans to attend Alpena Community College to study utility technology. Upon receiving the scholarship, Ethan said, “Thank you, Thumb Electric Cooperative, for the scholarship, as it will be used towards purchasing my electrical tools to be used at Alpena Community College.

I am very honored to have been selected for this scholarship, as it will take some of the financial burden off my college expenses. I am looking forward to completing my electrical training and then entering the workforce to make sure my community has safe and reliable electricity.”

Blake Newton: Blake is a 2025 graduate of Croswell-Lexington High School. In the fall, he will be attending Michigan State University to study mechanical engineering. About the scholarship, Blake said, “This scholarship will greatly help me by providing further funding towards my planned college career in mechanical engineering at Michigan State University. I am extremely grateful to have been selected as one of the scholarship recipients.”

Brayden Franzel: Brayden is a 2025 graduate of Ubly High School. In the fall, he will begin at Alpena Community College in their electrical systems technology program. “I’d like to sincerely thank TEC for awarding me their 2025 scholarship as I prepare to begin the utility technology program at Alpena Community College this fall,” Brayden said.

“I am truly honored and grateful for their support, which will significantly help me pursue my education and goals in the electrical field. This scholarship not only eases the financial burden but also motivates me to continue striving for academic and professional excellence. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and contributing positively to the industry and my community. Thank you once again for your generosity and belief in my potential.”

TEC would like to congratulate Ethan, Blake, and Brayden, and we wish them the best of luck in their future careers!

Congratulations to Len Nowicki, Apprentice Lineman TEC is proud to recognize Len Nowicki, apprentice lineman, for successfully graduating from the Joint Michigan Apprentice Program (JMAP) in Lake City, Michigan. This prestigious program, sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Labor, is known for its rigorous standards and commitment to developing highly skilled, safetyfocused journeyman lineworkers.

Len is now completing the final few hundred field hours required to officially earn his journeyman lineman certification—a major milestone in the electrical industry.

Please join us in congratulating Len on this outstanding achievement and wishing him continued success as he powers forward in his career!

Pictured left to right: Mike Kozlowski—IBEW Local 17 Union President, Len Nowicki—TEC Apprentice Lineman, Brad Essenmacher—TEC General Manager, Brandon Bruce—TEC Operations Supervisor (Caro)

ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR: Swimmers

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.

IF YOU SEE ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING TAKING PLACE: TURN POWER OFF

THROW A LIFE RING

CALL 911

DO NOT enter the water. You could become a victim, too.

Sources: Electrical Safety Foundation International, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• 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.

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.

MI CO-OP Guest Column

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.

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.

18 JULY/AUGUST 2025

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.

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SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE No Home Visit Required for a Free Estimate

Thumb Electric Cooperative tecmi.coop facebook.com/thumbelectric

2022 2025

ANNUAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

EARLY BIRD PRIZE DRAWING WINNERS 1. BATTERY-OPERATED LAWN EQUIPMENT . . . . . Elwin Richardson, Snover (Milwaukee leaf blower, weed whacker, high-powered battery and rapid charger) 2. AMAZON FIRE STICK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Knoerr, Sandusky 3. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gertrude Salowitz, Palms 4. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Shuart, Bad Axe 5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . Kevin Godlewski, Ubly 6. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scott Julien, Kingston 7. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Melvin Hartz, Port Hope 8. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . David Hunt, Ubly 9. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jason Lawhorn, Caro 10. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bob Briolat, Ubly 11. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . Mel McCracken, Bad Axe 12. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Deo, Snover 13. ROKU STREAMING STICK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angeline Schroth, Bad Axe 14. LED WORK LIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Frederick Kent, Caro 15. AMAZON FIRE STICK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karl Witkovsky, Caro

CHILDREN’S PRIZE DRAWING WINNERS 1. BIKE (BOY’S). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trevor Julien II, Kingston 2. BIKE (GIRL’S) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saoirse Carter, Croswell 3. TABLET. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aly Gerber, Cass City 4. TABLET. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amelia Dupure 5. WIRELESS HEADPHONES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grayson Glaza, Ubly 6. WIRELESS HEADPHONES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jayce Edwards, Fostoria 7. WIRELESS SPEAKER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sierra Findlay 8. WIRELESS SPEAKER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crew Tibbits, Vassar

PRIZE DONATED BY KAPPEN TREE SERVICE 10 YARDS OF MULCH BULK OR BAGS. . . . . . . . . . . Pamela Smith, Sandusky

FINAL PRIZE DRAWING WINNERS 1. TCL 43” SMART TV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arnold Sattelberg, Caro 2. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Douglas Salowitz, Palms 3. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . Linda Sadler, Decker 4. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brian Gerber, Cass City 5. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dale Fox, Vassar 6. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . Rex Strickler, Peck 7. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Allan Gillespie, Marlette 8. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shawn Young, Port Hope 9. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . Myron Cook, Ruth 10. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sharon Tehansky, Palms 11. GAS GIFT CERTIFICATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Green, Millington 12. ENERGY EFFICIENCY GIFT CERTIFICATE . . . . . . John Zyngier, Millington 13. FOOD GIFT CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A.N. Bizoukas, Unionville 14. ROKU STREAMING STICK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . William Haas, Port Austin 15. COUNTRY LINES COOKBOOK. . . . . . . . . . . . Donald MacMillan, Bad Axe 16. LED WORK LIGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Fluegge, Cass City