MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
SENATOR DEBBIE STABENOW
Championing Rural Michigan and Electric Cooperatives
Coming Soon: Director Elections
Cast Your Community Grant Giveaway Vote
People Fund Helps Kids Find The Fairways Of Life
Not seeing is believing.
Almost every backyard has a shrine to cold air. It’s called an a/c unit.
WaterFurnace will help you take back that space.
Air conditioners are unsightly and often located in the worst places. They’re vulnerable to the elements and can become home for small critters. But with geothermal, you won’t have an outside unit or any of these problems. So, reclaim your backyard. Plant some flowers and enjoy the unseen beauty that is WaterFurnace.
Geothermal is the only renewable that provides reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS
Allendale
Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com
Berrien Springs
WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com
Big Rapids
Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com
Filion/Bad Axe
Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com
Grand Rapids
Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com
Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616)396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Lansing Candor Mechanical (517)920-0890 candormechanical.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield
Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com
Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000 geofurnace.com
Alger Delta Electric: up to $2,000
Cherryland Electric: up to $2,500
Cloverland: up to $6,275
Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000
Homeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750
Thumb Electric: up to $2,000
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark
EDITOR: Christine Dorr
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird
RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman
COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd
PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.
Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.
POSTMASTER:
Send all UAA to CFS.
ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358
editor@countrylines.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.
The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
Contents
MI CO-OP Community
RECIPE CONTEST
See details on page 10. Best Potato Dishes, due July 1; Favorite Fall Recipes, due Aug. 1. Win a $100 bill credit!
GUEST COLUMN
See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published!
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/ community
6 FROM D.C. TO HOME: A YOUTH LEADER’S JOURNEY
A Gaylord student’s once-in-a-lifetime trip to Washington, D.C., turned into a year of growth, service, and leadership through the NRECA’s Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Council.
7 THROWN INTO THE STORM: JOHN KRAN’S FIRST DAYS AT MECA
A record-breaking storm tested MECA’s new CEO early, but Kran’s rural roots and policy know-how helped guide the way.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Summer Desserts: Savor those summertime moments with these sweet treats.
14 SENATOR DEBBIE STABENOW: CHAMPIONING RURAL MICHIGAN AND ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
Stabenow leaves a legacy of leadership and advocacy for rural economic development.
18 GUEST COLUMN
A History Lesson in a Puzzle: A jigsaw puzzle gifted to one Homeworks member gave her family a fun way to remember life before electricity.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Howard Bowersox, Chair, District 8 219-670-0977
hbowersox@glenergy.com
Janet Andersen, Vice Chair, District 6 231-690-4622 jandersen@glenergy.com
Paul Byl, Secretary, District 7 231-742-2643 pbyl@glenergy.com
Dale Farrier, Treasurer, District 5 231-564-0853 dfarrier@glenergy.com
Mark Carson, District 2 231-675-0561 mcarson@glenergy.com
David Coveyou, Director, District 1 231-347-4056 dcoveyou@glenergy.com
Richard Evans, Director, District 3 231-883-3146 revans@glenergy.com
John LaForge, Director, District 9 269-623-2284 jlaforge@glenergy.com
Mary O’Connell, Director, District 4 517-974-5797 moconnell@glenergy.com
PRESIDENT/CEO: Shaun Lamp 888-485-2537
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Brett Streby 231-487-1389 • bstreby@glenergy.com
BOYNE CITY HEADQUARTERS 1323 Boyne Ave. Boyne City, MI 49712
Call center hours: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. M–F Phone: 888-485-2537 Email: glenergy@glenergy.com
TO REPORT AN OUTAGE: Call 888-485-2537 or login to your account at gtlakes.com or the GLE mobile app.
Safety Is Paramount In Our Work
By Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy President/CEO
At GLE, we always prioritize safety. In fact, “Safety is paramount in our work” appears at the top of our cooperative’s list of seven guiding principles.
Because May is designated “Electrical Safety Month,” I had originally planned to focus on safety in last month’s issue of Country Lines, highlighting the importance we place on safety for our staff, our members, and the community. Little did I know how soon that message would need to be amplified.
Never in GLE’s history was this focus more important than during our recent storm response and ongoing recovery efforts. In addition to the everyday hazards our field crews face because of the nature of their work, they, along with more than 1,300 mutual aid and contract workers, faced many more risks because of the storm. Not only did they face danger from falling trees, branches, and ice, but the sheer number of people working to clear trees, rebuild our infrastructure, and restore power required precise coordination and effective communication to ensure the work was completed as efficiently and safely as possible.
Safety was also featured prominently in our storm-related communications. The storm reinforced how important it is for us to provide you with the information you need to help keep yourselves and our crews safe from electrical hazards. That’s why we regularly share information about common household hazards to avoid, along with information about outage-
related hazards such as downed power lines and how to safely use a generator, so it won’t create a danger for you, your neighbors, or our lineworkers.
Because we prioritize connecting with the communities we serve, we also take our safety education efforts a step further by taking them on the road, offering two safety demonstration programs, each targeted toward different audiences.
Powertown
Our Powertown program brings a tabletop demonstration designed for indoor settings that is ideal for students and youth groups. The demonstration is geared toward students in third through seventh grade and is presented by current or retired GLE employees who cover the basics of how electricity gets to homes and electrical safety concepts.
Hotline demonstrations
Our hotline demonstration program, which is my personal favorite, includes a trailer display for outdoor presentations. This lifesized experience is ideal for first responders, road commission staff, and community groups.
These programs allow us to bring these important safety messages to life in person in the communities we serve. To schedule a free safety demonstration for your school or group, please complete and submit the online form at gtlakes.com/ community-outreach/#safety.
By prioritizing electrical safety yearround, we can all work together to help ensure the well-being of our families, friends, co-workers, and community.
Change of Address: 888-485-2537, ext. 8924
Great Lakes Energy
and
IT’S TIME TO VOTE
For a Board Member
Next month, Great Lakes Energy members in three director districts will receive a mail-in ballot with their July/August issue of Michigan Country Lines. These ballots will also include instructions on how members can cast their votes online.
Three board positions, each for three years, will need to be filled. Qualifying GLE members who reside in districts 6, 8, and 9 can seek election to the board and will be listed on the members’ respective ballots.
Counties by district are:
District 6 – Lake and Mason counties
District 8 – Clare, Mecosta, Newaygo, and Osceola counties
District 9 – Allegan, Barry, Kent, Montcalm, and Ottawa counties
The terms of directors Janet Andersen of Ludington (District 6), Howard Bowersox of Stanwood (District 8), and John LaForge of Delton (District 9) expire this year. The three incumbents plan to seek reelection.
In addition to the mail-in ballot and online voting instructions, the candidates’ profiles will appear in the July/August election issue that will be sent to members in Districts 6, 8, and 9. Profiles will also be available in the online version of the July/August issue, which will be available at countrylines.com/my-co-op/great-lakes/.
Winners will be announced on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, at the cooperative’s annual business meeting.
STATE OF MICHIGAN BEFORE THE MICHIGAN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION ***NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT*** REGARDING THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF RENEWABLE ENERGY FILED BY GREAT LAKES ENERGY COOPERATIVE CASE NO. U-16593
• On February 27, 2025, an Application for Approval of Renewable Energy Plan was filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission (Commission) to fully comply with Public Act 295 of 2008, as amended by Public Act 235 of 2023.
• Any interested person may review the Application at the Michigan offices of Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, 1323 Boyne Ave., Boyne City, MI 49712 or at the office of the Commission’s Executive Secretary, 7109 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or on the Commission’s website at: https://mi-psc.my.site.com/s/.
• Any person wishing to file a public comment may do so by filing a written statement in this docket. The written statement may be mailed or emailed and should reference Case No. U-16593. Statements may be emailed to: mpscedockets@michigan.gov. Statements may be mailed to: Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, 7109 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, MI 48917.
• All information submitted to the Commission in this matter becomes public information, thus available on the Michigan Public Service Commission’s website, and subject to disclosure. Please do not include information you wish to remain private. For more information on how to participate in a case, you may contact the Executive Secretary at the above address or by telephone at (517) 284-8090.
COMMENTS ARE DUE BY 5:00 P.M. ON JULY 15, 2025.
From Curiosity to Connection: My Electric Co-op Journey
By David Wahl
Eighteen months ago, I had no idea what an electric cooperative was—let alone how one could completely change my life. Now, I’m proud to say I’ve been part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Council (YLC) and discovered an amazing community along the way.
It All Started in D.C.
In June 2024, I traveled to Washington, D.C., with nearly 2,000 students from across the country. Our local co-ops chose us to attend the NRECA Youth Tour—a once-in-alifetime opportunity. Out of all the Michigan students, I was selected to represent the state’s electric cooperatives on the Youth Leadership Council.
When I gave my campaign speech in Washington, D.C., I truly didn’t understand the magnitude of the role. I saw an opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with others—and I jumped at it. I quickly became part of a team of 45 students from nearly every state. We were all unique, but we shared a desire to serve and make a difference.
Bringing Joy Back Home
One of my favorite parts of being a “YLCster” was planning a community project with my sponsoring co-op, Great Lakes Energy. I brought back an idea from when I was little—a “Stuffed Animal Sleepover” at the library—and turned it into a school event for over 160 elementary students. The kids dropped off their “stuffi es” at school, and I spent the night posing them in fun scenes around the building. The next day, we shared the photos in a slideshow so the kids could see the wild adventures their stuffi es had overnight. The event was a hit in the school and on social media!
PowerXchange in Atlanta
As part of YLC, I also wrote and presented a speech to the Great Lakes Energy Board of Directors in hopes of becoming the YLC National Spokesperson. Even though I didn’t get to give the speech on stage at NRECA’s
PowerXchange conference in Atlanta, I was still able to represent Michigan’s co-ops and introduce myself to nearly 6,000 conference attendees.
The whole week in Atlanta was unforgettable. I worked alongside NRECA staff, helped attendees, and made memories I’ll never forget—from visiting the country’s largest aquarium and touring Mercedes-Benz Stadium to catching a Scotty McCreery concert with a front-row view. We came in as strangers, but we left as family.
Looking Ahead
I’m so grateful to the electric co-ops for everything they’ve given me over the past year. This experience has changed my life. To the students heading to Washington, D.C., this June—I’m excited for you. You’re about to take the fi rst steps on an incredible journey. I know you’ll come back with more than just memories—you’ll come back inspired to lead and ready to serve.
David Wahl is a junior at St. Mary Cathedral School in Gaylord, Michigan.
He represented Great Lakes Energy Cooperative on the NRECA’s Youth Tour and Michigan’s electric cooperatives on the NRECA Youth Leadership Council.
He also serves as a student representative to the City of Gaylord’s Downtown Development Authority.
From Capitol Hill to Co-op Storm Recovery: John Kran’s
First Weeks at MECA
Drawing on a career in advocacy and policy, Kran brings calm, clarity, and commitment to Michigan’s electric co-ops in a time of crisis.
By Emily Haines Lloyd
When John Kran stepped into his new role as president and CEO of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA), he expected the usual whirlwind that comes with leading a statewide organization. What he didn’t expect was an unprecedented ice storm to tear through northern Michigan just weeks into his tenure—impacting thousands of cooperative members and sending crews scrambling to restore power across some of the state’s most remote areas.
But pressure is nothing new to Kran. Before joining MECA, he spent years advocating for Michigan farmers as National Legislative Counsel for Michigan Farm Bureau, championing rural communities at the state and federal levels. Earlier in his career, he advised Rep. Bill Huizinga in Michigan’s 2nd District, where he learned to navigate policy challenges and political gridlock.
So, when the ice storms hit, Kran did what he does best—got into the mix, assessed both the big picture and the smallest details, and rolled up his sleeves.
We recently sat down with Kran to discuss his whirlwind start at MECA, what prepared him for the job, and what lies ahead for Michigan’s electric cooperatives.
Q: It’s fair to say your beginning at MECA was sort of “trial by ice,” if you’ll forgive the pun.
A: Yeah, I was only a few weeks in when those storms hit, and it was all hands on deck. It gave me an immediate look at the grit and collaboration that defi ne our co-ops.
Were there key moments that prepared you for this leadership role at MECA?
Working in D.C. for a member of Congress gave me a real appreciation for how things get done—or don’t—in government. It taught me patience, persistence, and how to translate local concerns into national conversations. My time with Michigan Farm Bureau was another big one. I had the chance to advocate for farmers on issues that directly affected their livelihoods. That gave me a deeper understanding of rural infrastructure needs, including energy. It’s all come full circle.
You spent years advocating on behalf of Michigan farmers. How do you plan to carry that experience into the energy sector?
The playbook is similar—listen to your people, know the issues, and build strong relationships with policymakers. I plan to be in those rooms in Lansing and D.C., making sure rural energy needs are understood and prioritized.
How important is it to bring member voices directly to policymakers?
It’s critical. I can talk all day about the impact of a policy, but when a lineworker, a general manager, or a member shares their story—that’s what sticks. If we don’t tell our story as a cooperative family, someone else will—and probably not the way we’d tell it ourselves.
What excites you most about this opportunity?
Every co-op has a story, and I get to help amplify those stories, find shared challenges, and advocate for solutions. It’s an exciting time in energy— technology, policy, and consumer expectations are evolving quickly, and co-ops are uniquely positioned to lead.
Outside of work, how do you unwind with your family?
We enjoy Michigan’s seasons—time at the lake in summer and skiing in winter. We’re also trying to visit as many national parks as we can.
CAST YOUR $10,000 VOTE
Last month, GLE members nominated local nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations for a chance to win a $10,000 grant. Now that your nominations have been made, it’s time to vote!
Great Lakes Energy has teamed up with CoBank, one of its lenders, to create a positive impact in your community by awarding three $10,000 grants to local, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations. The GLE service area is split into three regions— north, central, and south—and each region will select a respective winner.
Visit gtlakes.com/community-grant-giveaway to cast your vote!
From June 9–20, GLE members are asked to visit gtlakes.com/community-grant-giveaway and submit their vote for the organization in their region they feel is most suited to receive a $10,000 grant.
In the past four years, $78,000 in grants has been awarded through the Community Grant Giveaway program.
In just a few brief moments, your vote can help steer this program to benefit your friends, neighbors, and community. Your participation helps to make a positive impact for the organizations making a difference in your community.
LIGHTHOUSE LEGENDS
1. MOST VOTES Let me guide you, Kim Coates, Boyne City
2. Point Betsie Lighthouse Est. 1858, Dan Kuiper, Morley
3. Standing tall on South Manitou Island, Terry Euper, Hersey
4. Rusty’s adventure at Eagle Harbor, Melani Gosselin, New Era
5. Point Betsie, Beth Pipe, Baldwin
6. Grand waves, Jodi Lytle, Fife Lake
Enter to win a $200 energy bill credit!
Submit Your “College Towns” Photos By June 25 for the September issue! Each month, members can submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo with the most votes is published here, along with other selections.
How To Enter: Enter the contest at gtlakes.com/photocontest/ Make sure to vote and encourage others to vote for you, too. The photo receiving the most votes will be printed in an issue of Michigan Country Lines along with other favorites. All photos printed in the magazine in 2025 will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 bill credit in December 2025.
SUMMER DESSERTS
Savor those summertime moments with these sweet treats.
FROSTY BLUEBERRY SQUARES
Cindy Thome, Alger Delta
1 cup fl our
¹⁄2 cup butter, melted
¹⁄4 cup packed brown sugar
¹⁄2 cup pecans, chopped 2 pasteurized egg whites*
³⁄4 cup cane sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2½–3 cups blueberries
2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
Preheat oven to 350 F. In a mixing bowl, combine fl our, melted butter, brown sugar, and pecans together until crumbly. Spread crumbs onto cookie sheet covered in parchment paper, and bake for 20 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning. Cool. Spread half of the crumbs into a 9x13inch baking pan. Beat egg whites until frothy. Add sugar and lemon juice and continue beating at high speed until stiff peaks form, about 12–15 minutes. Fold in blueberries and thawed whipped topping. Spread mixture evenly over crust, then top with reserved crumbs. Cover and freeze 6 hours or overnight. Cut into squares and serve while still frozen. Garnish with additional blueberries, if desired. Makes 12–15 servings.
*Note: Pasteurized egg whites are safe to eat uncooked. If you cannot find pasteurized eggs, pasteurized liquid egg white products are available in most grocery stores.
LEMONADE STAND PIE RECIPE
Tori Hufnagel, HomeWorks Tri-County
1 (6-ounce) can frozen lemonade or pink lemonade concentrate, partially thawed (our family favorite is pink lemonade)
1 pint (2 cups) vanilla ice cream, softened
1 (8-ounce) tub nondairy whipped topping, thawed
1 prepared graham cracker crumb crust
Beat the lemonade concentrate in a large mixer bowl with an electric mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds. Gradually spoon in the softened ice cream and beat until well blended. Gently stir in the non-dairy whipped topping until smooth. If necessary, freeze the mixture to thicken. Spoon the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust. Freeze for 4 hours, or overnight, until firm. When ready to serve, let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes or until the pie can be cut easily. Garnish with strawberries, if desired. Store leftover pie in the freezer. Makes 8 servings.
LEMON BLUEBERRY CAKE
David Gibson, Midwest Energy & Communications
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1¹⁄4 cup sugar
¹⁄2 cup packed light brown sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla
3 cups sifted flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
• zest and juice of 3 medium lemons
1¹⁄2 cups fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare 2 round cake pans, 1 9x13-inch baking pan, or 2 loaf pans. Beat the butter until creamy, then cream the butter with the sugar and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix fl our, baking powder, and salt slowly, then add to the butter mixture. Follow with buttermilk, lemon zest, and juice of lemon. Coat the blueberries in 1 tablespoon of fl our, then stir into the batter. Spoon evenly into the pan. The batter will be extremely thick, so do not overmix. Bake for 21–26 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
FOUR LAYER CREAM CHEESE PUDDING DESSERT
Elizabeth Charest, Great Lakes Energy
1 cup fl our
¹⁄2 cup nuts, chopped
¹⁄2 cup butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, divided
2 (3¹⁄2-ounce) packages instant pudding mix (any flavor)
3 cups milk • toasted coconut/nuts for topping, optional
Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine fl our, nuts, and butter. Press mixture in 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake 10–15 minutes. While cooling, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup (4 ounces) Cool Whip. Spread over cooled fi rst layer. Mix the pudding and milk until combined, then pour on the creamy layer. Chill. Spread with remaining Cool Whip. You may sprinkle with toasted coconut, nuts, etc. Enjoy!
Order Your Cookbook Today!
The Best of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook features favorite recipes from the past 10 years. Get your copy exclusively on Amazon.
Meeting High Standards
GLE exceeds eight out of nine state performance standards in 2024
Great Lakes Energy distributes electricity to more than 130,000 meters in portions of 26 counties from Kalamazoo to the Mackinac Bridge. The rural, sparsely populated nature of our service area presents many challenges for our lineworkers when they respond to outages and service requests. Despite these challenges, GLE consistently shines in the annual reliability report we are required to file with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). This report is intended to show how well an electric utility is able to meet standards established to protect consumers from unacceptable levels of electric service and reliability. Although the MPSC granted all Michigan electric cooperatives a waiver from reporting on the bottom seven of these standards for 2024, GLE was able to compile the data and is reporting it here for the benefit of our members.
The addition of more line protection devices, the use of new technologies, improvements to major line circuits, and ongoing vegetation management to limit tree damage to power lines are all helping to improve value for our members.
Note: This data is for the period of Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2024
Striving to achieve high standards is another way Great Lakes Energy looks out for you.
Helping Kids Find The Fairways Of Life
Anyone who has played golf knows the game can be both rewarding and frustrating—a lot like life.
As you start each new round, you know you’ll have many opportunities for both success and failure. Each hole presents its own unique challenges that you must overcome. There are rules to follow, and success comes with patience, practice, and perseverance.
That’s why First Tee of West Michigan focuses its efforts on helping kids find the fairways in the game and in life.
First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build character, which will empower them to face a lifetime of challenges. By integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, the organization seeks to create learning experiences that build inner strength, selfconfidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do.
In the fall of 2024, the People Fund awarded First Tee a $4,000 grant
“We’re trying to build better golfers, but we’re trying to build even better people.”
to support its Homework and Hitting program.
First Tee of West Michigan Muskegon Area Director Erik Sanford explained that the Homework and Hitting program is typically a six-week program that First Tee takes to area schools during the winter. Initially, the program served as an opportunity for First Tee coaches to have offseason interaction with kids they’d worked with previously. Part of each session would be devoted to providing academic support to students, and the rest of the time is spent working on kids’ golf fundamentals by hitting into an indoor net and other exercises.
However, as the program expanded into more rural areas, thanks in part to the People Fund grant, the participants are typically kids who have had no prior interaction with First Tee and little or no golf experience. In those cases, the program pivots to mirror the summertime outdoor program model, which focuses on teaching life skills while teaching the basics of golf.
“For example, we might discuss how to pursue a goal, both on the golf course and in life,” Erik said. “Golf is the vehicle for these lessons. Our philosophy is ‘We’re trying to build better golfers, but we’re trying to build even better people.’”
First Tee of West Michigan offers many opportunities for people to get involved in supporting its mission. To learn more about First Tee West Michigan, including all of its youth program offerings and opportunities to get involved, visit firstteewestmichigan.org.
Since its inception in 1999, the People Fund has awarded more than $5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that serve GLE’s 26-county service area. To learn more about the People Fund, including how to sign up, how non-profit organizations can apply for a grant, and a list of recent grant recipients, visit gtlakes.com/people-fund
SENATOR DEBBIE STABENOW
Championing Rural Michigan and Electric Cooperatives
By Emily Haines Lloyd
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow may be the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s recently minted Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, but Michigan’s senior senator didn’t start her career amidst accolades in glitzy ballrooms.
A FOUNDATION OF SERVICE
Raised in Clare, Michigan, where “neighbors helping neighbors” was not only a sentiment but a way of life, Stabenow has spent decades ensuring that Michigan’s rural regions, farmers, and electric cooperatives thrive.
Stabenow’s rural upbringing profoundly shaped her approach to public service. She recalls the close-knit nature of her hometown, where her parents—a nurse and a small business owner—instilled the values of hard work, community, and giving back.
“My family wasn’t political,” said Stabenow. “But they instilled in their children that if you benefi t from something, you owe it to pay it back. It’s your responsibility to help where you can.”
ROLLING UP HER SLEEVES
“Public service is at its best when it’s driven by people from every background.”
She found an opportunity to help as a 24-year-old graduate student at Michigan State University working to stop the closure of a nursing home—the last in Ingham County serving lowincome seniors.
The facility was saved, but Stabenow’s fi ght was just beginning. One of the key leaders trying to close the facility was the county commissioner in her own district. The next election, Stabenow ran against that commissioner—and won his seat. Two years later, she was the chair of the board—the fi rst woman and youngest to hold that position in Ingham County.
From there, her journey led to the Michigan House of Representatives, U.S. House, and ultimately the U.S. Senate, fueled by a commitment to the most pressing needs of the communities she served.
ADVANCING RURAL DEVELOPMENT
It’s unsurprising then that Stabenow sought government committees that would most directly impact her constituents. As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Stabenow became a fierce advocate and authored multiple farm bills that expanded the scope of agricultural policy.
“What we grow in Michigan refl ects what people want,” she said, highlighting the signifi cance of tailoring policies to the diverse needs of farmers and consumers.
Her leadership extended to food security programs, bio-based economies, and clean energy initiatives, all designed to bolster economic viability and quality of life in rural areas. Through her efforts, Michigan’s farmers have gained access to expanded crop insurance, renewable energy resources, and grants supporting sustainable practices.
CHAMPIONING ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
Electric cooperatives hold a special place in Stabenow’s legacy. She has been a tireless advocate for rural economic development. Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson notes that Cherryland has leveraged a federal USDA program to create a revolving loan fund that has supported almost 40 locally owned small businesses in their service territory with over $7 million of zero-interest loans to expand their businesses and create and retain local jobs.
“The impact of our loan fund will be felt for generations, and we are incredibly proud of the success of our borrowers,” said Johnson. “None of this would be possible without Senator Stabenow’s support for rural Michigan.”
Additionally, Stabenow’s work on programs like the Rural Energy
for America Program (REAP) empowered electric cooperatives and rural communities to invest in renewable energy, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Her dedication to decarbonization was also refl ected in her support for the New ERA grant program, a groundbreaking initiative that provides low-interest loans and grant funding for electric cooperatives transitioning to renewable energy sources.
“Jobs, energy access, and sustainability are interconnected,” she noted. “These programs help create prosperity in rural Michigan.”
A LEGACY OF CONNECTION AND HUMILITY
Known for her approachability and collaborative spirit, Stabenow has worked alongside policymakers from both parties to achieve tangible results. Her relationships with
rural constituents and cooperative members have remained authentic and grounded.
“She’s never forgotten where she came from,” said former MECA President Craig Borr. “Senator Stabenow stands for so much of what electric cooperatives stand for—collaboration, creative solutions, and community. She’s been a true champion of rural Michigan, and we will always be grateful for her policy work in the U.S. Senate.”
Now retired from the Senate, Stabenow looks forward to continuing her advocacy work from her home state. She also offers advice to Michiganders aspiring to public service:
“Don’t wait for someone else. If you see something that needs to be done, step up,” said Stabenow. “Public service is at its best when it’s driven by people from every background.”
“Don’t wait for someone else. If you see something that needs to be done, step up.”
Great
Lakes Energy Cooperative Consolidated Balance Sheet*
As of Dec. 31, 2024
642,908,745
645,224,949
$ 1,045,434,063
Great Lakes Energy Cooperative Consolidated Operating Statements*
For the years ended Dec. 31, 2024, and 2023
Building Community Connections
At Great Lakes Energy, the word “cooperative” goes far beyond our name and our business model. It also describes how we interact with our member-owners. We strive to make strong connections in the community that go well beyond providing electric and fiber internet service. It’s these connections and a shared sense of community that inspire our drive for continual improvement, not just in our organization, but also in the lives of our members and in the communities we serve.
One way we pursue our mission of working together with our members and the community is by providing financial support for organiza tions that are making a positive impact on people’s lives.
PEOPLE FUND
As GLE’s flagship grant program, the People Fund has awarded more than $5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations across our 26-county service area. The program awards grants twice each year using money collected from GLE members who agree to have their monthly electric bills rounded up to the next whole dollar. In the past five years alone, the People Fund has awarded 430 grants worth nearly $1.4 million.
Total of grant money awarded since 1999:
COMMUNITY
This program represents another way GLE uses partnerships to push positive change in the community. The Community Grant Giveaway program allows members to nominate deserving nonprofit organizations to receive one of three $$10,000 grants offered in partnership with GLE’s lending partner CoBank. Once the nomination process is complete, members then have the chance to vote on which organization in their area will receive one of the grants. In the past four years, 4,762 votes have been cast in deciding $78,000 in grants.
Total of grant money awarded in past four years.
$78,000
Because we are a part of the communities we serve, we know there are many worthwhile events, programs, and community activities that depend heavily on sponsorships. We are proud to lend our name, logo, and financial support to these many worthwhile programs and events that serve as an important thread in the fabric of the communities we serve. In the past five years, GLE has awarded nearly $70,000 in sponsorships for events and programs throughout our service area.
Amount GLE has awarded in sponsorships in the past five years.
$69,927
Jigsaw Puzzle Provides Family Fun And Teamwork
By Mary Ellen Wynes, a HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative member
This summer, we attended a picnic hosted by our Homeworks Tri-County Electric Cooperative, where we were gifted a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle that illustrated “Electrifying Rural America.” We are apt to forget that our access to reliable electricity has not always existed, and the puzzle theme reminded us of the comfort it provides.
We admired the detailed and colorful depiction of the process illustrated on the top of the puzzle box so much that we enjoyed it, unopened, on the kitchen table for several months. One day, I decided it was time to assemble the puzzle, and although I hadn’t attempted one since I was a child, I found the process not only entertaining but addictive!
I would sit down to work at it “for a few minutes,” and an hour would speed by before I looked up. The alluring and unique “snap” when a piece locked into its correct place kept me inspired. By the time our family was able to gather for a very belated Christmas this February, the pieces for
“The challenge to ‘finish it for Grandma’ was accepted, and their teamwork resulted in a lovely completed puzzle.”
the road, trees, horses, cart, and truck still needed to be assembled. The challenge to “fi nish it for Grandma” was accepted, and their teamwork resulted in a lovely completed puzzle. They also applied puzzle glue so that it could be hung in our home to admire and preserve the memory of a time when family members, ages 8 to 84, enjoyed the fun of working together.
Thank you to HomeWorks Tri-County for providing a challenge and an opportunity for family fun and teamwork.
GUEST COLUMN
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Yo u r Vo i ce .
Yo u r B o a rd o f Di re c to r s .
Yo u r C oo p e r ative .
Great Lakes Energy Directors Put Members First*
Major system improvements in the last 20 years have provided increased value for all GLE members.
GLE accomplishes more with less, ranking it as one of the most productive electric cooperatives nationwide 1
Truestream, GLE's fiber-to-the-home project, is providing high-speed internet service to more than 25,000 residential and business subscribers and continues to grow.
GLE is making investments in smart grid technology to ensure electric service remains reliable and affordable for members.
Eight local offices deliver quick and courteous service
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*Directors are not appointed by management but rather democratically elected by members to serve three-year terms. All directors are members who receive electric service from GLE.
1 Based on number of members per employee statistics compiled by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Janet Andersen Distric t 6
Howard B owersox Distric t 8
John L a Forge Distric t 9
M ark C arson Distric t 2
Paul Byl Distric t 7
David Coveyou Distric t 1
Ric Evans Distric t 3
Mary O’Connell Distric t 4
Dale Farrier Distric t 5