JulyAug 2026 Cloverland

Cloverland Electric Cooperative

July/August 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Taking the Long Way Around Building Skills, Powering Progress at Cloverland Co-op People Power Coming Together in Curtis: A Gift that Keeps Giving

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE

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CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES $2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

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OLDEST UNIT CONTEST! Have an older geothermal unit? Tell us why you love it for a chance to win a new, modern WaterFurnace residential geothermal unit with professional installation.1 Hurry, the contest ends July 22, 2026.

Enter at waterfurnace.com/giveaway 1. Visit the WF giveaway landing page for full details and requirements.

visit waterfurnace.com/mi The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

July/August 2026 Vol. 46, 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.

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

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

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6 DIGGING INTO THE RICH

RECIPE CONTEST

HISTORY OF MICHIGAN’S KEWEENAW PENINSULA The majestic land of the Keweenaw captivates visitors with natural beauty and hidden riches below the surface.

GUEST COLUMN

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

MYSTERY PHOTO

14 TAKING THE LONG

See details on page 10. Autumn Comfort Foods, due Aug. 1; Heirloom Recipes, due Sept. 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published!

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community

Chill Out! No Cook: Summer made simple.

WAY AROUND More than an endurance event, the Mackinac Island Swim is rooted in joy, connection, and community.

18 GUEST COLUMN

A Farmers Market Tradition.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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CO-OP News Director Election Results

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Email: board@cloverland.com DISTRICT A Gerald Nettleton 906-430-0910 | DeTour Village Term: 2024–2027 Jason St. Onge 231-420-0462 | Mackinac Island Term: 2025–2028 William LaLonde, chairperson 906-298-1406 | St. Ignace Term: 2026-2029 DISTRICT B Patrick Egan 906-437-5526 | Brimley Term: 2024–2027 Carmine Bonacci Jr., secretary/treasurer 906-440-4063 | Sault Ste. Marie Term: 2025–2028 John Sawruk, vice chairperson 906-630-1287 | Sault Ste. Marie Term: 2026–2029 DISTRICT C Ronald Provo 906-341-5300 | Manistique Term: 2024–2027 Kevin Vanatta 906-450-4310 | Newberry Term: 2025–2028 John Stapleton 906-286-0520 | Garden Term: 2026–2029 PRESIDENT & CEO: Mike Heise MEMBER SERVICE CENTER 2916 W. M-28, Dafter, MI 49724 906-635-6800 • 800-562-4953 cloverland.com communications@cloverland.com OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Cloverland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

BOARD MEETINGS

Visit cloverland.com for the board meeting schedule, agendas, call-in details and past meeting minutes.

Cloverland members are welcome to participate in person or by phone.

CHECK YOUR BILL

Check the rate code in the upper-right corner of your bill: RES for residential homes (permanent or seasonal) and GEN for non-residential or commercial accounts.

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Cloverland Electric Cooperative announced results of the director elections at its Annual Meeting of the Members on June 4. Cloverland is a democratically controlled, not-for-profit electric co-op governed by nine directors elected by the members of their respective districts to serve a three-year term.

One seat per district is up for election each year. The election process is managed by an independent third party, Survey & Ballot Systems of Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

Members could vote electronically or by mail-in ballot. Ballots were mailed April 27 and voting concluded May 29. Directors in districts A and C were unopposed.

District A Results: Willie LaLonde (St. Ignace) ran unopposed and was reelected.

District B Results: John Sawruk (Sault Ste. Marie) was reelected, receiving 1,168 ballots and earning 57.8% of the vote. Heidi Witucki (Sault Ste. Marie) received 853 ballots, with 42.2% of the vote.

District C Results: John Stapleton (Garden Peninsula) ran unopposed and was elected.

Voter percentage in the 2026 election was 18.14%, with 1,617 mail-in ballots and 442 electronic ballots submitted by 2,059 cooperative members in District B.

Powering Ahead:

Renewable Energy & EV Infrastructure Updates

By Pat Frazier, Chief Operating Officer As Cloverland continues planning to meet Michigan’s renewable energy regulations, we remain focused on making responsible, long-term decisions that benefit our membership and the communities we serve. One area currently under evaluation is the potential development of a 55-MW solar facility in the Garden Peninsula. At this stage, Cloverland is reviewing multiple options and carefully assessing how renewable generation could fit into our long-term power supply strategy while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness for our members. With our current purchased power agreement set to expire in 2029, Cloverland has the opportunity to evaluate future energy supply options that best serve our membership.

We are also excited to share progress on electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within our service territory.

Construction of new fast charging stations in Manistique and St. Ignace is expected to begin in June, with a goal of completing both sites prior to the Fourth of July holiday. These projects are supported through funding provided by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) as part of the Lake Michigan Circuit grant program. Once complete, the stations will help expand EV travel access for both residents and visitors traveling through the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Training centers are developing across the nation for indoor infrastructure that allows for year-round training programs.

This photo features Ohio Electric Cooperative’s Central Ohio Lineworker Training (COLT).

Building Skills, Powering Progress

By Mike Heise, President & CEO

As technology evolves and infrastructure demands grow, the need for highly trained professionals has never been greater. Across the utility industry and beyond, organizations are facing a growing workforce gap in critical fields such as electrical linework, substation technicians, renewable energy systems, and broadband infrastructure. Cloverland’s vision is to create a regional hub where hands-on learning, safety education, and workforce development come together to meet those challenges head-on.

The proposed Training & Technology Center, planned within the former Washington Elementary School in Sault Ste. Marie, represents more than a building project—it represents an investment in people, careers, and community. By repurposing a familiar neighborhood facility, we can create a space dedicated to practical training, apprenticeship opportunities, and industry-recognized certifications

while preserving the educational spirit of the site.

One question we have heard is: “Who is paying for it?” Cloverland is actively working with state legislators and industry partners to pursue outside financial support for this initiative along with leveraging potential tax credits.

With this support, it is important to note that it is not projected to impact Cloverland’s rates and was not factored into our recent rate increase.

This effort is built on collaboration.

We are grateful for the strong support already expressed by Sault Ste. Marie Schools, Lake Superior State University, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, labor organizations, industry partners, and state lawmakers who recognize the importance of developing a skilled, homegrown workforce. Together, we can create pathways for students, young professionals, and displaced workers to build meaningful careers without leaving the Upper Peninsula.

At Cloverland, safety and reliability remain at the core of everything we do. This center will strengthen both by ensuring our workforce receives the best possible training in real-world environments. Just as importantly, it reflects our commitment to longterm investment in the communities we serve and to preparing the EUP workforce for the future.

The future of energy, technology, and infrastructure is changing rapidly. By investing in education and workforce development today, we are helping ensure the Eastern Upper Peninsula is ready to lead tomorrow.

“ B y investing in education and workforce development today, we are helping ensure the Eastern Upper Peninsula is ready to lead tomorrow.”

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

Digging Into the Rich History of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula

By Cassondra Scott

huge influx of immigrants from Finland, Cornwall, and other regions, creating a unique cultural identity and helping shape the area’s diverse population.

This can be seen today in bilingual street signs, architecture, museums, and foods like the famous pasty.

Rising production costs, violent miner strikes, and the Great Depression brought job loss and population decline and ultimately led to the fall of the mining industry. Without the mines, the economy began to collapse. Many towns vanished, leaving behind ghost towns, industrial relics, and remnants of a bygone era.

Today, the Keweenaw National Historical Park preserves 20 heritage sites that offer tours into the past— showcasing the impact the mining downturn left on the communities and landscape for generations. Some of these sites include:

Forming the northernmost tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a striking shark fin-shaped area of land stands along the shore of by Lake Superior. Isolated by geography and refined by a geology so unique, there is nowhere else in the world quite like the Keweenaw Peninsula.

To really understand the whole picture, we have to go back a billion years to the Mesoproterozoic Era. This period of forming and shifting of Earth’s continents is when a midcontinent rift formed. Volcanic activity left behind nearly pure copper lava, producing the only strata on Earth with large-scale recoverable native copper at 97%.

For over 7,000 years, Lake Superior Indigenous people and their ancestors

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mined and traded this copper, using it to make tools, beads, and ornaments.

As European settlers arrived, the Ojibwa shared their knowledge of copper resources and by the 1840s, “copper fever” had struck.

In 1842, the U.S. gained title to the Keweenaw Peninsula and opened it to commercial mining, which continued to dominate the economy until the 1960s. Industrialization attracted a

• Once one of the nation’s largest copper producers, the village of Calumet gives a first-hand glimpse of what life was like in a mining town during the 19th century.

Landmarks include Calumet Visitor Center, Coppertown Mining Museum, and Calumet Theater.

• Quincy Mine, nicknamed “Old Reliable” for being one of the largest copper producers in the UP, is open year-round for tours.

Free self-guided tours are available above ground, while the full tour takes visitors on a cog-rail tram to descend 360 feet below ground and walk through the massive hoist house.

• From mid-May to October, Delaware Mine offers self-guided underground tours to explore at your own pace. Walk 110 feet below ground to Shaft No. 1. See copper veins on the walls, ruins of stone buildings, antique engines, and mining equipment.

The “Gateway to the Keweenaw” begins in Houghton, the largest city in Copper Country. Directly across the Portage Canal sits the rolling hills and red brick cityscape of Hancock.

Connecting the two cities is the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, the world’s heaviest and widest double-decked, vertical-lift bridge.

The 25-mile partially man-made Keweenaw Waterway bisects the Keweenaw Peninsula. It serves as a vital transport route, also offering cruises and boat tours. Everything to the north is known as Copper Island, because it’s technically surrounded completely by water.

monks. These men of peace have been serving up savory heavenly treats, jams, and jellies since 1983.

Copper Harbor is a harmonious blend of old America sprinkled with parks, beaches, waterfalls, shipwrecks, and lighthouses. It’s a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and camping.

It’s also home to Fort Wilkins State Park, an 1844-era frontier fort with 11 original buildings to tour.

Established to keep peace and manage civil unrest during the early copper rush, the fort remained open for only three years, as the harsh winters proved to be nearly unbearable for soldiers

to survive. By 1870, the Army had permanently abandoned the facility.

A wildly majestic place that seems to magically transport visitors back in time, the Keweenaw Peninsula offers natural beauty as far as the eye can see and an even greater treasure just beneath the surface. Shaped by Indigenous influence, European exploration, and a century-long mining boom, it remains one of Michigan’s richest regions in both history and landscape.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventures to the Keweenaw Peninsula.

The drive from Houghton to Copper Harbor, the very northern point of the peninsula, is a little less than 50 miles.

The mountainous, rugged drive makes for an easy day trip. You’ll traverse Brockway Mountain, Keweenaw’s best-known summit, which towers 735 feet above the lake below.

Take a pilgrimage to the Jampot in Eagle Harbor, a bakery, candy, and coffee shop run by Catholic Byzantine

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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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CO-OP PEOPLE POWER PROMOTIONS

Kerry Micolo

Promoted from Billing Supervisor to Member Relations Manager February

Mindy Kavanaugh

Promoted from Member Services Representative to Billing Specialist March

Shayla Leigh

Promoted from Billing Specialist to Billing Supervisor March

Stephen Burnis

Promoted from Safety Manager to Assistant Director of Operations March

TRANSFERS

Brian Dumback

Lineman—transferred from DeTour to Dafter in February

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Cody Coffey

Lineman—transferred from Mackinac Island to DeTour in March and from DeTour to Dafter in June

Nicole Watchorn

Promoted from Member Services Representative to Lead Member Services Representative March

Mike Krzycki

Promoted from Safety and Loss Control Specialist to Safety Manager March

Duck DuVall

Promoted from Hydro Plant Repairman to Hydro Plant Manager March

Marcie Fierek

Promoted from Human Resources and Safety Assistant to Safety and Loss Control Specialist April

January to June 2026 NEW HIRES

Lindsey Andrews Member Services Representative March

Todd Brown

Mackinac Island Lineman March

Keith McDowell

Operational Technology Assistant—Intern May

Emilio Arze-Novak

Engineering Assistant—Intern May

RETIREMENTS

Rebecca Randazzo

Operations & Engineering Liaison January—celebrating 30 years of service!

Jennifer Sharpe

Member Services Manager March—celebrating 33 years of service!

Certifications • Stephen Burnis, Assistant Director of Operations, earned the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Management Internship Program Certificate in February.

Mike Talsma

Dafter Line Foreman April—celebrating 38 years of service!

DeLynn Paul

Accounting Clerk May—celebrating 49 years of service!

Thank you to our hydro plant summer helpers, Drake Stec and Sofiane Bentaiba!

We appreciate your hard work and dedication over the summer months.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

CHILL OUT! NO COOK Summer made simple.

SESAME CHICKEN CRUNCH SALAD

WINNING RECIPE!

Katie Grzesiak, Great Lakes Energy Dressing: 1 tablespoon sugar ¾ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ¾ teaspoon ground ginger ⅓ cup neutral oil (such as canola or avocado oil) 1½ tablespoons sesame oil 3 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) 2 tablespoons soy sauce, or tamari (for gluten-free) Salad: 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 4–5 cups) or 6 cooked chicken breasts, seasoned and shredded 1 small head Napa cabbage, shredded (about 5 cups) or 2 heads romaine lettuce, shredded 1–2 carrots, shredded 4 green onions, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons toasted sliced or slivered almonds 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds 1 (3-ounce) can fried rice noodles (Asian-style crunchy noodles, such as La Choy) In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, black pepper, ground ginger, neutral oil, sesame oil, vinegar, and soy sauce until well combined. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage/lettuce, carrots, green onions, almonds, sesame seeds, and fried rice noodles. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat and combine. Serve immediately. If you expect leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before adding it to the salad and serve the rice noodles separately to keep them from becoming soggy.

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

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HAM-N-CHEESE BALL

CHOCOLATE PEANUT CLUSTERS

Julie Stellema, Alger Delta 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1 teaspoon onion powder 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon dried parsley ½ teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon seasoning salt 3 tablespoons finely chopped ham, optional 1 cup bacon bits, optional

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, paprika, seasoning salt, and ham, if using. Stir well until combined. Form the mixture into a ball, cover, and chill in the refrigerator until firm. When ready to serve, spread the bacon bits on a plate and roll the cheese ball in the bacon until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving platter and serve with crackers.

Bill & Mary Jo Williams, Great Lakes Energy 1 (6-ounce) bag Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels 1 (10-ounce) bag Reese’s Peanut Butter Morsels

1 can (10–12 ounces) Planters Spanish Peanuts (use only Spanish peanuts for best results)

Combine the semi-sweet chocolate morsels and peanut butter morsels in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well.

Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Stir in the Spanish peanuts until evenly coated. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto wax paper or parchment paper. Let the candy harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then leave on the counter for at least 1 hour before storing in a tin or airtight container. Makes approximately 45–50 clusters. The recipe can easily be doubled.

GRAPE SALAD

SEVEN-LAYER TACO DIP

Rhonda DeBolt, Cherryland Electric

Linda Gowman, Presque Isle

4 pounds seedless green grapes, or a combination of green and red grapes 8 ounces sour cream 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

½ cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 ounces chopped pecans 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Remove the grape stems and rinse the grapes in vinegar water, then allow them to dry completely. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the grapes, then mix in most of the pecans and brown sugar, reserving a small amount to sprinkle over the top before serving. Cover and refrigerate overnight if possible, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and the flavors to blend.

RECIPE CONTEST

1 (15-ounce) can refried beans 5 tablespoons mayonnaise 5 tablespoons sour cream 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced

1 bunch green onions, chopped (green tops only) ½ can black olives, drained and sliced 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

Layer the ingredients in the order listed in a shallow serving dish, glass pie plate, or 8x8-inch baking dish, beginning with the refried beans and ending with the shredded cheddar cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips and salsa.

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Autumn Comfort Foods, due Aug. 1; Heirloom Recipes, 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

A Gift that Keeps Giving to Curtis

By Allie Brawley

Located in the Upper Peninsula about 15 miles southwest of Newberry in the heart of the vast Lake Superior State Forest, you’ll find Curtis, where there are 900 year-round residents and more than 2,500 in the summer months.

This small village is bursting with history and culture, plus generations of seasonal visitors who enjoy summer festivities at Big Manistique Lake and South Manistique Lake.

Born from a vision to bring arts and culture to the heart of Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula, the Erickson Center for the Arts has grown into a lasting gift for the Curtis community.

Founded through the generosity and dedication of summer residents Dick and Nancy Erickson—with Nancy

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(Gowan) Erickson having grown up in the area—the Center was created to ensure people of all ages could experience the transformative power of the arts close to home.

What began as a simple idea has evolved into a regional destination for performances, education, nature, and community connection.

The Erickson Center sits on 40 acres in Curtis, blending arts, culture, and the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. The project began in 2003 with the construction of a bandshell that hosted six weeks of Music in the Park performances each summer.

Those concerts quickly became a community tradition, expanded to 12 weeks, regularly drawing crowds of approximately 250 people.

As support for the arts continued to grow, the Center expanded. A building opened in 2008, allowing for additional programming, exhibitions, and educational opportunities.

Then, in 2021, the Erickson Center celebrated the opening of its 160-seat performance theatre, made possible through a successful capital campaign that began in 2019.

Executive Director Kelly Chamberlin said organizers initially hoped the campaign would raise enough money simply to purchase theatre seating.

Instead, community support far exceeded expectations.

“It just says a lot about our community that we surpassed our goal,” Chamberlin said. “Clearly there’s a big

“ Clearly there’s a big appreciation for the arts and a need for people to have it during their summer.”

The Erickson Center’s mission is to enrich the mind, body, and spirit of the communities it serves through artistic and cultural programs while encouraging personal growth throughout the region. Operational grants through Michigan Arts and Culture Council help support three part-time staff positions, while a volunteer board and many additional volunteers generously give time, talent, and labor to sustain programming and events. Local businesses also play an important role through ongoing sponsorships and community support.

The Erickson Center for the Arts in Curtis has grown into a cultural cornerstone for Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula, offering performances, educational programming, community events and outdoor spaces that bring residents and visitors together year-round.

Chamberlin oversees programming, fundraising, grant writing, and community outreach, helping ensure the Center continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its original vision of community enrichment.

Working alongside other beloved Curtis organizations, including the

appreciation for the arts and a need for people to have it during their summer.”

The additional funding allowed the Erickson Center to invest in professional lighting, sound, and stage equipment, creating a venue capable of hosting tribute bands, theatrical productions, musicals, and visiting performers ranging from children’s theatre groups to Shakespeare productions.

Beyond the arts, the property also reflects the Center’s commitment to education and wellness. Twenty acres are dedicated to a nature conservancy featuring walking trails and a children’s book trail that changes monthly, encouraging families to explore both literacy and the outdoors together.

Opened in 2021, the Erickson Center’s 160-seat performance theatre was made possible through overwhelming community support during a successful capital campaign that surpassed fundraising goals.

Curtis Chamber of Commerce, the Erickson Center helps strengthen the sense of community that defines the Upper Peninsula. Together, these organizations celebrate local heritage, support tourism and economic vitality, and create opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, learn, and connect.

More than two decades after its beginnings, the Erickson Center for the Arts continues to stand as a testament to what can happen when a community invests in creativity, culture, and one another—a gift that continues giving to Curtis and future generations alike.

For a schedule of events, visit ericksoncenter.org.

British Landing

TAKING THE LONG WAY AROUND

By Emily Haines Lloyd Grand Hotel

Fort Mackinac

Arch Rock

SWIM START

M

ost Mackinac Island visitors take the familiar route, walking its streets, pedaling its perimeter, or settling into a horse-drawn carriage.

But on one August morning each year, before the first rush of day-trippers arrives, hundreds of swimmers cross the straits with a different plan entirely. They step off early ferries wrapped in neoprene and nerves and head toward the shoreline to do something equal parts daunting and delightful: swim 8.2 miles around Mackinac Island.

From the outside, the Mackinac Island Swim can look like a test of endurance alone, the kind of event soaked in competitiveness and bragging rights.

And, yes, it is a serious challenge. But that’s only part of the story.

More Than an Endurance Event Talk to Event Director Jon Vos, and a different picture comes into focus.

“Endurance events can become all about the competition,” Vos says.

“From day one, we wanted it to be about the experience, the people, and just enjoying this thing we love to do with others who love it, too.”

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FINISH LINE

That philosophy shapes everything about the day. Yes, swimmers are timed, but mostly so organizers can track who is safely in and out of the water. There are no podiums at the finish line and no pressure to outperform. In fact, the only “trophies” handed out come from the local bakery, appropriately called Humble Pies. What you do see and feel are the people cheering each other on, taking in the crystal-clear water, and embracing the rare chance to experience Mackinac in an entirely unique way.

A Challenge Shared One of the most unique aspects of the swim is how connected it feels. Mackinac’s bike path traces the shoreline, making it unusually spectator-friendly. Friends and family can follow along from land, turning the entire route into a moving cheering section. Aid stations become gathering places. Visitors become invested in strangers.

“People make it their own,” Vos says.

“You see families out there, relay teams, people coming back year after year. It becomes part of their story.”

Even when conditions have been tough with cold water, wind, and waves, the response is often the same: “That was awful…see you next year.”

How It Began Like many good ideas, the Mackinac Island Swim started with a simple question.

In the wake of COVID, when events were canceled and plans disrupted, a small group of swimmers found themselves still heading north, still eager for connection and adventure.

Someone floated the idea: What if they went to Mackinac Island and swam around it?

It was a little bold. Totally impractical.

And immediately exciting.

With help from local swimmers and organizers, the idea quickly came together. The first year drew a whopping 250 swimmers. Last year there were over 400, with solo swimmers, relay teams, and support crews taking part.

What has stayed constant is the intent behind it. From the beginning, Vos wanted the swim to feel different from

MACKINAW ISLAND SWIM August 9, 2026 For more information, visit swimaroundmac.com

the ultra-competitive atmosphere often found in endurance sports: Less swagger. More shared experience.

A Community Effort Pulling off an 8.2-mile swim around an island is no small feat. It requires coordination with ferry operators, local boat captains, lifeguards, island paramedics, the Coast Guard, and city leaders. Around 70 people are involved each year, including a core planning team and dozens of volunteers.

But that effort reflects something more than logistics. The event has become part of the community itself.

Through its partnership with the Mackinac Women’s Club, the swim has helped raise roughly $100,000 to support local initiatives.

Where Bravery Meets Joy When the swimmers come ashore, they’re usually tired, sometimes shivering, but always smiling.

Yes, it takes endurance. Yes, it takes bravery.

But what people remember is the joy.

The cheers from shore. The stories traded afterward. The feeling of having done something hard, beautiful, and just a little bit crazy. Together.

As swimmers come out of the water smiling ear to ear, it’s clear this was never really about who finished first or beat their personal best. It was about taking the long way around to see both Mackinac and themselves differently.

And to carry home a story that only the water could give them.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

More Money for Your Mission

Energy Optimization Non-Profit Business Bonus

If your organization serves income-qualified individuals and families, the non-profit business bonus provides rebates to help you upgrade to energy-efficient equipment. These improvements lower your facility’s energy use, reduce your electric bills, and free up more of your budget for the vital programs and services you provide to our community.

Who qualifies for the bonus?

Non-profit organizations providing services for low- to moderate-income individuals and families. u u

501(c)(3)s Food pantries/banks

u u

Women and children resource centers Senior housing complexes/centers

What kinds of upgrades qualify?

Energy efficiency solutions that help improve your facility’s energy performance, manage electricity use, and reduce electric bills. u u u

Appliances/HVAC replacements and cleaning/tune-ups: furnace, high-efficiency water heaters, heat pumps, and refrigerators LED lighting upgrades Custom projects to meet needs

How do I get started?

The Energy Optimization team will help you determine if you qualify and schedule an in-person facility assessment. Call (877) 296-4319 or email info@michigan-energy.org and ask about the Cloverland non-profit business bonus.

Energy Optimization program rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will end once 2026 funding is fully allocated. Apply early to ensure rebate availability.

Visit cloverland.com/eo to find more ways to save at your home, business, or farm.

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

CUTE PETS MOST VOTES

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1. MOST VOTES Relaxing in my backyard.—Trish Forstner, Manistique 2. Doggie in the window!— Sue Monck, Barbeau 3. Lainey Gaga in the sunshine.—Jennifer Brown, Sault Ste. Marie 4. Kalie loves hanging out by the beach and watching the sunset.—Zoey Reisener, Sault Ste. Marie 5. My sweet Jack Russell.

—Marti Brown Driedric, Sault Ste. Marie 6. Belle loves life in St. Ignace!— Katharine Witt, St. Ignace 7. Buddy and Sissy are always snuggling.—Jeff Dishaw, Naubinway 8. I’m just a baby!—Jacob Driedric, Sault Ste. Marie

Submit a photo & win a $100 energy bill credit!

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Submit Your Photos & Win A Bill Credit! Cloverland members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2026 will be entered in a drawing.

Four lucky members will win a $100 energy bill credit on their December 2026 bills!

Upcoming Photo Topics and Deadlines: Iconic Landmarks due July 25 (Sept./Oct. issue) Treasured Traditions due Sept.

25 (Nov./Dec. issue)

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To submit photos, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines.

We look forward to seeing your best photos!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

Where In Michigan Is This?

MI CO-OP Guest Column

A Farmers Market Tradition

By Kelsee Nemetz, A Cherryland Electric Cooperative member

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 2026 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Christian Kleber, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member who correctly identified the photo as Gertz Village Square in downtown Millersburg, Mich.

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

18 JULY/AUGUST 2026

A family tradition is something that moves us closer to those we love. They provide an opportunity for bonding and create lifelong memories. These family traditions were exactly what we were looking to create for our new little brood.

We moved from my daughter’s and my birthplace of Grand Rapids when she was 3, and landed in my husband’s hometown of Traverse City. Moving from a bigger city to a smaller beach town was a bit jolting. Everything was now much closer to us, no longer needing a trek across the highway just to get groceries. And that newfound shorter driving radius included a ton of little pop-up farmers markets.

I have always loved the idea of a farmers market. However, traveling to the markets in Grand Rapids always proved stressful. Traffic was usually a nightmare, and when you arrived...it was a coin flip if you would find a decent parking space. I noticed that all changed when we moved up north. With everything much more spread out and spacious, I experienced a lot less stress just getting around town.

We began by visiting the Sara Hardy

market in downtown Traverse City, and then expanded our search to the Interlochen Farmer’s market.

Now, opening weekend is a bit of a ritual. My daughter loves riding in our wagon and looking around at the jewelry and baked goods stalls, always appreciating a good cookie.

My favorite stop lately has been the Cheese Lady’s stand. There’s a special feeling that comes with strolling the market on a finally warm and sunny mid-morning, and it has now become our treasured spring tradition. Creating and keeping family traditions looks different everywhere you go. For our family, it’s a sunny stroll through a local farmers market on warm weekends. Maybe it’s the weather, finally getting out of the house and doing an outdoor activity after months of stagnation. Maybe it’s the togetherness of it all and the joy of browsing local treasures with the ones you love the most. Or maybe it’s creating those lasting memories, the ones that my daughter will take on to adulthood. One day, maybe she will take her own children to her town’s farmers markets. Just like her mom used to take her.

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

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

STOP OVERPAYING TO HEAT & COOL YOUR HOME Upgrade to the Most Efficient Dual-Fuel Heat Pump on the Market.

SAVE 50-75% ON HEATING & COOLING COSTS

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725 E. Portage Ave. Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783

Power Line Pruning—Trimming for Safety & Reliability

2026 TREE TRIMMING PLANS Cloverland contractors, Chop Tree Service, Townsend Tree Service, Wright Tree Service, and Davey Tree, will clear rights of way along high-voltage power lines. Cloverland maintains a total of 4,056 miles of line, with approximately 300 miles scheduled for clearance in 2026 across our Eastern Upper Peninsula service territory.

Scheduled work will occur across: District A: Clark, DeTour, Drummond Island, Marquette, Pickford, and Raber townships

Our tree trimming process involves two phases to ensure efficient and thorough work.

District C: Doyle, Garfield, Hiawatha, Hudson, Inwood, Manistique, and Thompson townships

1. Trimming

Additional maintenance work may occur across Cloverland’s service territory.

Safe clearances are maintained by removing select trees and pruning limbs along power lines. Crews are identified by a company logo on their vehicles and identification badges.

Contact Cloverland at 800-562-4953 if you are concerned about vegetation in proximity of your service line.

The first crew trims the limbs and branches, leaving them in piles.

2. C hipping

The second crew follows to chip the trimmed branches.

There may be a two-to-four-week gap between phases, so you may notice branches accumulating during this period. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Members affected by 2026 tree trimming plans will be notified in advance by email and automated phone message. Call 800-562-4953 to update your email or phone number to stay informed.