JulyAug 2026 Ontonagon

Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association

July/August 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Taking the Long Way Around Simple Ways to Save Energy at Home Grilling Safety Tips A Beacon of Light— For 160 Years

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE

Geothermal is like finding magic in your backyard.

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Stop wishing and start saving with geothermal from WaterFurnace.

Visit waterfurnace.com to learn how to turn “Too Good To Be True” into “True.”

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

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

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com

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

Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 www.tmcmechanicalllc.com

Cadillac Wilder Htg & Clg (231) 645-4822 Wilderheatingandcooling.com

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

Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com

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

Gaylord Family Plmb & Htg (989) 732-8099 familyplumbingandheating.com

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southern-michigan

Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 Westmigeothermal.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 $2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

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

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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Strengthening Our Cooperative

Through Community

By Dallas Aho, General Manager

500 J.K. Paul Street Ontonagon, MI 49953 906-884-4151 800-562-7128 After hours: 866-639-6098 OFFICERS & DIRECTORS Michael Gaunt, President Chassell/Keweenaw Bay District 906-370-8133 • district5@ontorea.com William Hodges, Vice President Lake Linden District 906-934-3743 • district7@ontorea.com Mildred Ann Gasperich, Secretary Boston District 906-337-5079 • district6@ontorea.com Randy Myhren, Treasurer Green/Firesteel/Toivola District 906-884-4092 • district1@ontorea.com Jack Lehto, Director Pelkie/Herman/Aura District 906-353-6684 • district3@ontorea.com Calvin Koski, Director Aura District 906-524-6988 • district4@ontorea.com Paul Koski, Director Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine District district2@ontorea.com PERSONNEL Dallas Aho, CEO/General Manager Alex Watson, Billing Clerk Justin Sironen, Operations Manager Kelsey Preiss, Administrative Assistant OTHER INFORMATION Date of Incorporation: Sept. 30, 1937 Fiscal year-end: Dec. 31 countrylines.com/coops/ontonagon Ontonagon County REA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KEWEENAW

HOUGHTON

ONTONAGON BARAGA

At its core, our electric cooperative is about more than delivering reliable power—it’s about people. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors and a shared commitment to making our communities stronger and more connected.

Living here in the UP, we know community isn’t just a nice idea— it’s essential. Rural distances, long winters, and smaller populations mean we depend on one another in meaningful ways. As your cooperative, we recognize there is always more we can do to strengthen that connection with you, our members.

One of our guiding principles is “Concern for Community.” While it has always guided our work, we also see it as an area where we can continue to grow and improve.

Finding New Ways to Connect Community involvement doesn’t need to be complicated. Some of the most meaningful connections come from simply spending time together and having open conversations.

Looking ahead, we’re working to create more opportunities to connect in ways that feel accessible and welcoming.

This includes exploring ideas like informal park gatherings where members can meet staff in a relaxed setting, as well as hosting events at our office that offer a chance to meet our employees and board members while sharing a meal.

We’re also looking at how we can better reach members who may not attend ontonagon.coop

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in-person events. Expanding our use of surveys and other feedback tools will help ensure more voices are heard, no matter how you choose to engage.

Empowering Member Participation As a member-owner of this cooperative, your involvement plays an important role in shaping our future. We know there is an opportunity to encourage greater participation—whether that’s through voting, attending meetings, or simply sharing your thoughts with us.

Our goal is to make it easier and more meaningful for members to stay involved and informed.

Building Stronger Connections We also see an opportunity to strengthen relationships within the communities we serve. By working more closely with local organizations, schools, and community groups, we can better understand local needs and find ways to contribute in a more meaningful way.

Looking Ahead We view these efforts as part of an ongoing commitment to do better and be more connected to the members we serve. Building a stronger cooperative doesn’t happen all at once—it happens through small, consistent steps and a willingness to listen and improve.

In the months ahead, you’ll see us taking those steps and exploring new ways to engage. When opportunities arise, we encourage you to take part, share your feedback, and help us continue to grow.

Thank you for being part of our cooperative and for helping guide us forward. /OntonagonCountyREA

ONTONAGON COUNTY RURAL ELECTRIFICATION ASSOCIATION

Rate, Tariff, And Billings Rules Changes Approved At The Open Member Meeting May 18, 2026 At its May 18, 2026, Open Member Regulation Meeting, the Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association adopted the following Rate and Tariff changes.

1. Reconciled 2025 Power Supply Cost Recovery Factor Collections – Accepted the 2025 Power Supply Cost Recovery Factor reconciliation indicating an under-collection of $101,057.30. The OCREA directed staff to roll this amount into the 2026 PSCR factor and continue collecting it from the membership throughout the 2026 calendar year.

2. Accepted the 2025 TIER Analysis and Approved a Revenue Increase of $937,281.

3. Reviewed and Approved the adjustments to Rates as indicated in the chart, effective with bills rendered on or after Sept. 1, 2026.

Rate Class

Current Monthly Charge

Proposed Monthly Charge

Increase

Monthly – A & AH

$30

$34

$4

Seasonal – AS

$40

$46

$6

C&I Small – B

$38

$46

$8

C&I Large – B

$52

$60

$8

Public Buildings – A

$30

$34

$4

Rate Class

Current kWh Charge

Proposed kWh Charge

Increase per kWh

Monthly – A & AH

$0.21059

$0.23369

$0.0231

*Monthly – AH

$0.21059/$0.17801

$0.23369/$0.20111

$0.0231

Seasonal – AS

$0.21059

$0.23369

$0.0231

C&I Small – B

$0.19322

$0.21632

$0.0231

C&I Large – B

$0.19322

$0.21632

$0.0231

Public Buildings – A

$0.21059

$0.23369

$0.0231

* Monthly Schedule AH: For the billing months June through October, the kWh charge is currently $0.21059 and will increase to $0.23369/kWh. For the billing months November through May, the charge is currently $0.21059 for the first 500 kWh and $0.17801 for kWh in excess of 500 kWh. These rates will increase to $0.23369/kWh for the first 500 kWh and $0.20111/kWh for kWh in excess of 500 kWh.

BE AWARE AND STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER HEAT EXHAUSTION Faint or dizzy

OR

HEAT STROKE Throbbing headache, confusion

Excessive sweating

No sweating

Cool, pale, clammy skin

Body temperature above 103° Red, hot, dry skin

Nausea or vomiting

Nausea or vomiting

Rapid, weak pulse

Rapid, strong pulse

Muscle cramps

• Get to a cooler, air-conditioned place • Drink water if fully conscious • Take cool shower or use cold compresses Source: weather.gov

May lose consciousness

CALL 911 • Move person to cooler place • Cool using cloths or bath • Do not give anything to drink 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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School-Year Savings Start at Home with ENERGY STAR Appliances Back-to-school season brings busy schedules, packed lunches, endless laundry, and appliances working overtime. If you’re looking for ways to manage energy use while keeping up with the season, ENERGY STAR ® certified appliances are a smart solution.

standard models, helping lower energy use with every load while still delivering excellent cleaning performance.

ENERGY STAR® appliances are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance, and with appliance rebates from Ontonagon REA, upgrading can save even more.

Dry More Efficiently with an ENERGY STAR® Heat Pump Clothes Dryer

Keep It Clean with an ENERGY STAR® Clothes Washer From school clothes to sports uniforms, laundry piles up quickly during the school year. Traditional washers can use a large amount of water and energy, especially with frequent hot-water cycles.

An ENERGY STAR® certified clothes washer uses less water and energy than

Plus, you can receive a $25 rebate on an ENERGY STAR® certified clothes washer to help keep laundry day efficient and affordable.

During the school year, dryers often run nonstop with uniforms, towels, and weekend catch-up loads.

Traditional electric dryers can use significant energy and add extra heat to your home.

ENERGY STAR® certified heat pump dryers use advanced technology that recycles warm air instead of constantly venting heated air outside.

This process uses significantly less energy, is gentler on clothing, and helps reduce heat buildup in your laundry space.

With a $50 rebate available, upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® heat pump dryer can deliver long-term savings for busy households.

Chill Out with an ENERGY STAR® Refrigerator Back-to-school season also means your refrigerator is working harder to keep lunches, snacks, and quick dinners fresh. Since refrigerators run around the clock, choosing an energyefficient model can make a noticeable difference in household energy use.

ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerators are designed to use less energy while maintaining reliable cooling performance. You may also qualify for available rebates when upgrading to a qualifying model.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR® appliance rebates from Ontonagon REA and start the school year with smart savings at home.

SAVINGS THAT MAKE THE GRADE Upgrade your appliances and get money back on your energy bill.

Every appliance comes with two price tags— the purchase price and the operating cost.

ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances help reduce the operating cost by reducing energy use without sacrificing performance.

Ontonagon REA is offering rebates on qualified appliances to help you save on the purchase price. Now that’s smart savings!

Back to School Back to Savings

Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit ontonagon.coop/energy-rebate.php

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

CUTE PETS

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1. Herbie enjoying Bete Grise beach. Lucille Fortin 2. Eeny, Meeny, Mimy. Moe must be in the hutch. Dora Silk 3. Great day for fishing.

Connie Pentti 4. Someone knows she’s cute!

Molly Fettig 5. Gretel had just been groomed so in an attempt to keep her clean, I put a shirt on her.

She missed the memo.

Nancy Warren 6. Olive and Cosmo ready for a Keweenaw adventure! Stacey Flood 7. Best of friends! Taylor Pakkala 8. Mitzi deciding playtime is not over... William Cole 9. Fresh from the bath!

Sherry Trepanier 10. Soaking up the sunshine!

John Tuovila

Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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Submit A Photo & Win A Bill Credit! Ontonagon REA members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2026 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a credit of $50 on their December 2026 energy bills!

Upcoming 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, and for details and instructions, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines. We look forward to seeing your best photos!

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

Smart, Simple Ways to Save Energy at Home

SEAL AIR LEAKS

Saving energy doesn’t have to cost a lot—or take a lot of time.

You don’t need major upgrades or the latest technology to see a difference. Even small changes can lower your energy use and improve comfort, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Here are some easy, low-, and no-cost tips to help you get started:

Air sealing is an affordable, beginnerfriendly DIY project that can improve comfort and efficiency. With about $20 and a couple of hours, you can seal gaps and cracks that let air escape or enter your home.

Use caulk (around $4 per tube) to seal gaps around windows and exterior doors. Choose paintable caulk for a clean finish. Apply spray foam (about $5 per can) around plumbing lines under sinks or in basements and crawlspaces to block drafts.

Bonus: It also helps keep pests out.

Quick Tip: Spray foam can be messy— wear gloves, protect surfaces, and be careful when applying overhead.

Prep your workspace ahead of time for best results.

ADJUST YOUR THERMOSTAT A few degrees can make a big difference. Set your thermostat slightly closer to the outdoor temperature—especially on very hot or cold days. Your heating and cooling system works hardest during extremes, which can drive up energy use. Stay comfortable by dressing for the season: Layer up in winter and switch to lighter clothing in summer.

FIX LEAKS PROMPTLY A dripping faucet or hot water leak may seem minor, but it adds up to wasted energy and water over time.

If you can’t fix it right away, use the shutoff valve under the sink to stop the flow until repairs can be made.

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LOWER YOUR WATER HEATER TEMPERATURE Turning down your water heater can reduce energy use and save money. Some models make this adjustment simple, while others may require a bit more effort. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional.

INSTALL WEATHERSTRIPPING For $10–$15, weatherstripping can improve the seal around exterior doors. If you notice drafts or see light coming through closed doors, this quick fix can make a noticeable difference.

Small changes make a difference.

WASH CLOTHES IN COLD WATER Heating water uses a significant amount of energy. Switching to cold water for laundry is an easy way to cut back—especially helpful if you have an older or topload washer that uses more water.

Small steps like these can add up to meaningful savings. Try a few of these simple improvements to reduce energy waste, lower your bills, and make your home more comfortable year-round.

Grilling SAFETY TIPS Warm weather is the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and gather friends and family for a backyard cookout.

But before you get cooking, it’s worth brushing up on a few key grilling safety tips. Avoid common mistakes and you’ll set yourself up for a safer, more enjoyable experience.

1. Start with a Stable Setup

Always place your grill on a flat, level surface to prevent tipping. Skip uneven ground or sloped areas, and opt for a solid surface like concrete or stone.

2. Stay Close While Cooking

Never leave a lit grill unattended.

Keep children and pets at least three feet away, and remain nearby while cooking—even after you’ve finished, as surfaces stay hot.

5. Keep It Clean

A clean grill isn’t just about bettertasting food—it’s also safer. Grease and fat buildup can lead to dangerous flare-ups. Clean the grates after every use and regularly empty drip trays.

6. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill

9. Check for Gas Leaks

Inspect your propane hose periodically. Apply soapy water and turn on the gas—if bubbles form, you may have a leak that needs attention.

10. Handle Charcoal with Care

Packing too much food onto the grill at once can cause excess fat to drip into the flames, increasing flare-ups. Cook in batches, especially when preparing fatty meats.

Avoid using lighter fluid excessively— it can affect the taste of your food and lead to uncontrolled flames. Never add lighter fluid to already lit coals.

Instead, use a charcoal chimney starter for a safer approach.

Position your grill at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, deck railings, or overhanging branches. Open space reduces the risk of stray embers starting a fire. And don’t forget to use long-handled tools designed for grilling.

7. Use a Meat Thermometer

11. Be Ready for Emergencies

4. Grill Outdoors Only

8. Light Gas Grills Safely

Always open the lid before lighting a gas grill. Lighting it while closed can cause gas to build up and ignite in a sudden fireball. If the flame goes out, turn everything off and wait at least five minutes before relighting.

12. Shut Down Properly

3. Give It Space

Grills should never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages. They produce carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly. If the weather isn’t cooperating, opt for an indoor grill pan instead.

Don’t rely on guesswork. A meat thermometer ensures your food reaches safe internal temperatures, helping prevent foodborne illness.

Keep baking soda nearby to manage grease fires and have a fire extinguisher within reach. Never use water on a grease fire—it can make things worse.

When you’re done cooking, turn off gas burners and close the propane valve. For charcoal grills, close the vents to cut off oxygen. Let coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.

By following these simple safety tips, you can keep the focus where it belongs—on great food, good company, and enjoying the season. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents, so you can grill with confidence all summer long.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

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

A Beacon of Light— For 160 Years The Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse Is Celebrating Another Milestone

By Chris Lewis

Whether you’ve lived in Ontonagon all your life or you recently moved to “Harbor Town,” you’re likely familiar with the area’s various landmarks. Bond Falls. Lake of the Clouds. Old Victoria.

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A Step Back in Time Aside from the Porcupine Mountains, no other landmark stands out more than the Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse though. After all, it’s one of the area’s most historic attractions.

In fact, this year it’s celebrating its 160th anniversary.

Interestingly, the current brick lighthouse isn’t even Ontonagon’s first. As further evidence of the town’s longstanding association with lighthouses, another one was built in 1853.

Made entirely of wood, the original lighthouse unfortunately rotted, due to its location on the Ontonagon River’s floodplain.

“The U.S. Lighthouse Service built both of the lighthouses,” said

Dean Juntunen, president of the Ontonagon County Historical Society.

“After the brick house went into service, the wooden structure was completely removed.”

When compared to some of Michigan’s 129 historic lighthouses, the Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse has remained relatively unchanged since it first opened in 1866. In particular, its brick structure and tower look much like it did back then.

However, if a lightkeeper from the 1860s were to visit the lighthouse today, they would notice some significant changes, too. First, a summer kitchen was created in 1890, while its basement was also finished during that same time period. Not to mention, dormers were added to the lighthouse’s living quarters in 1904.

In addition to these key changes, the lighthouse became known for its fifth order Fresnel lens. This lens was originally installed in the wooden lighthouse in 1857 and transferred in 1866. Unlike the mirrored Winslow Lewis lens (which the wooden lighthouse had in 1853), the Fresnel lens offered a focal plane at 39 feet above lake level. As a result, it could be seen from up to 13 miles offshore.

“The U.S. Lighthouse Service also moved to kerosene around the 1870s,” Juntunen added. “Kerosene is more efficient than vegetable oil in lamps, but it couldn’t be stored in living quarters.

Thus, an oil house was added outside of the lighthouse as well.”

A Continuous Rise in Popularity Over the years, the Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse has become more and more popular, as tourists continue to discover it. As an example of its enduring reputation as a must-visit attraction, 3,000 to 4,000 people tour it annually.

While reflecting on its ongoing popularity, Juntunen believes there are several reasons why people from all over the world visit it. Above all else, it provides a connection to history—

a visual representation of Michigan’s and Ontonagon’s early years.

Restored to roughly 1915, the lighthouse features an assortment of artifacts and furniture from that bygone era, which visitors simply love to look at, often for hours at a time.

According to Juntunen, this restoration ensures the lighthouse isn’t just an “empty structure.” Rather, it feels as if “someone is still living there.”

“Tourists get a good taste of life in the U.S. Lighthouse Service,” Juntunen emphasized. “And people just love lighthouses. Ours sees about twice as many visitors as our museum.”

Along with its restoration (via a State Historic Preservation Office grant), the Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse stands out for its location, too.

It’s a quarter of a mile inland from Lake Superior’s shoreline.

There are two key causes for this. First, long piers were installed many years ago. Second, sediments were deposited on the upstream side of the lighthouse’s west pier— a direct result of Lake Superior’s Keweenaw

Current. This remained the case until a new balance point was reached by the shoreline, leading to the lighthouse’s present location.

“This inland position makes our lighthouse unique,” Juntunen said.

Finally, the lighthouse provides visitors another opportunity to live in the 1860s.

Its outhouse is original as well, as it features the same Milwaukee Cream City bricks that the lighthouse does.

“It was also restored onsite,” Juntunen added. “It’s stood the test of time, too.”

Looking Ahead As the Ontonagon Harbor Lighthouse celebrates its 160th anniversary this year, it will continue to be overseen by a dedicated group of volunteers. Thanks to these individuals, it will be open to the public seven days a week—from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET—until mid-October.

“This summer, we also replaced two aging windows,” Juntunen said. “In the next year or two, we’re hoping to find a grant to replace the remaining eight windows as well.”

Finally, Juntunen is hoping that tourism thrives throughout the coming months, enabling him and the volunteers to share their stories of the lighthouse and Ontonagon as a whole.

“We’d like to see over 4,000 visitors this year,” Juntunen concluded.

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

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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.

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HOW TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING Each year, 3,800 people in the U.S. die from drowning. Electric shock drowning occurs when an electric current escapes boats, docks, and lights near marinas, shocking nearby swimmers.

There are no visible signs of current seeping into water, which makes this a hidden danger. The electric shock paralyzes swimmers, making them unable to swim to safety.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR: Swimmers

Boat Owners

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Use portable GFCIs or shore power cords (including “Y” adapters) that are “UL-Marine Listed” when using electricity near water.

• Regularly have your boat’s electrical system inspected by a certified marine electrician.

Ensure it meets your local and state NEC, NFPA, and ABYC safety codes.

IF YOU SEE ELECTRIC SHOCK DROWNING TAKING PLACE:

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