Great Lakes March 2021

March 2021

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES Great Lakes Energy Cooperative

Tackling Commercial

Fishing With Massey Fish Co.

Meet Your Director, Paul Byl

High-Speed Home Schooling

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 26% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT THROUGH 2022 1

Clean Start Rebate For a limited time, you can save up to $1,250 on clean energy geothermal heat pumps

Switch to geothermal and get a clean start to the year!

This year everyone deserves a clean start! Switching to geothermal is the perfect decision to help your house be as comfortable and environmentally friendly as possible for years to come. The WaterFurnace Clean Start Rebate Program makes switching to geothermal an even smarter decision. For a limited time, you can save up to $1,250 and receive a free Amazon Echo Dot with the purchase of our most efficient, comfortable, and technologically advanced 7 and 5 Series geothermal heat pumps and accessories. But hurry, this deal ends April 30th, 2021, so contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today!

FREE

UP TO

1250

$

Amazon Echo Dot

&

ACT NOW FOR A

&

WITH REGISTRATION2

INSTANT REBATE

26% Tax Credit

THROUGH 2022

Your Local WaterFurnace Dealers Bad Axe/Cass City Thumb Clg & Htg (855) 206-5457 thumbcooling andheating.com Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmich geothermal.com Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com

Caro Kozy Home Htg & Clg (989) 673-4328 geo4less.com

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

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

Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com

Mancelona Top Notch Htg, Clg, & Geothermal (231) 350-8052 topnotchheatandair.com

Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com

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

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

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

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com Traverse City D & W Mechanical (231) 941-1215 dwgeothermal.com Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 watergeofurnace.com

waterfurnace.com/CleanStart 1. 26% through 2022 and 22% through 2023. 2. With registration of homeowner’s Symphony Home Comfort Platform. Amazon Dot will be shipped to the address given in Symphony registration.

Promotion available February 8th through April 30th, 2021 and only to residential customers through participating dealers. WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

Contents countrylines.com

March 2021 Vol. 41, No. 3

/michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin McKamey COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association Michigan Country Lines, USPS-591-710, 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: Robert Kran, Great Lakes Energy, chairman; Tony Anderson, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Eric Baker, Wolverine Power Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, 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.

Cover photo: Donny Massey holding a beautiful lake trout, one of the many species of fish harvested by Massey Fish Co.

6 EFFICIENT OUTDOOR LIGHTING TIPS Let us help you shine a light on the best home and yard illumination options.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN Soups: Cozy and satisfying, these recipes are the answer to your dinnertime dilemma.

MI CO-OP COMMUNITY

14 TACKLING COMMERCIAL FISHING For Massey Fish Co. in St. Ignace, the embrace of changing technology and a love for nature are the keys to success.

18 GUEST COLUMN There’s magic in a frog pond.

#micoopcommunity

An icy-cold night rainbow in downtown #charlevoix @tpmann4msu (Thomas Mann)

Be featured!

Use #micoopcommunity for a chance to be featured here and on our Instagram account.

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

MI CO-OP KITCHEN

BEST OF MICHIGAN

GUEST COLUMN

MYSTERY PHOTO

Up Next: Fruity Desserts, Whole Grains, and Fish & Seafood Share your favorite recipes.

Up Next: Coffee Shops Spill the beans! Tell us about your favorite place to grab a caffeinated (or decaf) beverage.

Submit your fondest memories and stories.

Enter a drawing to identify the correct location of the photo.

Win $150 for stories published!

Win a $50 bill credit!

Win a $50 bill credit!

See page 18

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

3

We’re Here For You

gtlakes.com

Bill Scott, Great Lakes Energy President/CEO

/greatlakesenergy /jointruestream BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Robert Kran, Chairman, District 6 231-464-5889 bkran@glenergy.com

John LaForge, Vice-Chairman, District 9 269-623-2284 jlaforge@glenergy.com Paul Schemanski, Secretary, District 1 231-439-9079 paul.schemanski@glenergy.com Howard Bowersox, Director, District 8 219-670-0977 hbowersox@glenergy.com Paul Byl, Director, District 7 231-861-5911 pbyl@glenergy.com

Mark Carson, Director , District 2 231-675-0561 mcarson@glenergy.com

Richard Evans, Director, District 3 231-883-3146 revans@glenergy.com Dale Farrier, Director, District 5 231-564-0853 dfarrier@glenergy.com

Shelly Pinkelman, Director, District 4 989-390-6222 spinkelman@glenergy.com PRESIDENT/CEO: Bill Scott 888-485-2537 COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR/EDITOR: Brett Streby 231-487-1389 • bstreby@glenergy.com BOYNE CITY HEADQUARTERS 1323 Boyne Ave. Boyne City, MI 49712

Hours: 8 a.m.–4:30 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.

Change of Address: 888-485-2537, ext. 8924 Great Lakes Energy is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

4 MARCH 2021

ou, our members, are at the heart and foundation of all we do. It was in our community’s interest when the co-op was founded in 1937, bringing electricity to unserved rural homes, farms, and businesses. With electricity came the ability to prosper and expand life into the areas we now call home.

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This sentiment carries into our mission today as we provide opportunities to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Your best interests are our guiding light through helpful tips or tutorials in our publications and website, or our Energy Optimization program that incentivizes the purchase of efficient home appliances and upgrades.

While some of our endeavors, like youth tours and safety demonstrations, have been throttled back due to the pandemic, the People Fund and our classroom grant program’s importance have never been more exemplified. By continuing to support educational initiatives and nonprofit organizations throughout the communities we serve, we ensure a rich and healthy environment in which to live and raise our families. We are honored to take part in this, and we do it for you.

We strive for the best, but we are also human. We received high marks on our annual member survey, used to gauge how to continue delivering the topquality service you expect and deserve. While perfection may not be obtainable, we set our sights there—thank you for helping us get closer to that goal.

Channeling the impassioned spirit of those who started the co-op more than 80 years ago, we continue to expand our Truestream fiber network. For some, this service will significantly improve the quality and reliability of the internet they receive. For others, Truestream will open the door to new options previously unavailable simply due to geographical location. Your support and enthusiasm for Truestream fuels our passion.

Started by our members and still owned by you today, we will continue to provide opportunities and build the future upon our past success. We’re here for you.

Through your sustained participation in our member satisfaction surveys, we have continued to learn, grow, and improve by applying your feedback to our operations. Thank you for your help in our mission to provide you with reliable service!

100

96.5% 94.5% 94.8% 95.7%

80 60 40 20 0 2017

2018

2019

2020

Overall member satisfaction based on members who are satisfied or more than satisfied with Great Lakes Energy.

Winter weather can have a significant impact on your energy bills, hitting your pockets a little harder than you would have liked. Now that spring is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to tackle a few DIY efficiency projects for your home. The good news: You don’t have to be an energy expert to do this!

SAVE

By completing these simple hands-on efficiency projects, you can save energy and money while increasing the comfort level of your home. And you can impress your family and friends with your savvy energy-saving skills.

EN

ERGY

DIY Efficiency Projects

WATER HEATER INSULATION AND TEMPERATURE Insulating a water heater that’s warm to the touch can save 7–16% annually on your water heating bills.

(Note: Newer water heaters may already be insulated.)

A pre-cut jacket or blanket can be purchased for about $20.

1. Turn off the water heater.

2. Wrap the jacket or blanket around the water heater and tape it to keep it in place temporarily.

3. Use a marker to note any areas where the controls are so you can cut them out.

4. Once positioned, tape the jacket or blanket permanently in place.

5. Turn the water heater back on.

For an electric water heater, do not set the thermostat above 130 degrees, which can cause overheating.

SEAL AIR LEAKS WITH CAULK The average American family spends $2,000 annually on energy bills*, with much of that money wasted through air leaks in the home. Applying caulk around windows, doors, electrical wiring, and plumbing can save energy and money.

1. Choose a silicone caulk that is waterproof, flexible, and won’t shrink or crack.

2. Clean and remove any old caulk or paint with tools or solvent. The area should be dry before you apply the new caulk.

3. Apply the caulk in one continuous stream, and make sure it sticks to both sides of the crack or seam.

Use a putty knife to smooth out the caulk.

4. Wipe the surface with a dry cloth. * According to the U.S. federal government’s ENERGY STAR® program.

WEATHER STRIP EXTERIOR DOORS One of the best ways to seal air leaks is to weather strip exterior doors, which helps keep out drafts and control energy costs.

1. Choose weather stripping materials that can withstand temperature changes, friction and the general “wear and tear” for the location of the door. You will need separate materials for the door sweep (at the bottom of the door) and the top and sides.

2. Clean the molding with water and soap, then let the area dry completely.

3. Measure each side of the door, then cut the weather stripping to fit each section.

4. Make sure the weather stripping fits snugly against both surfaces so it compresses when the door is closed.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

Efficient Outdoor Lighting Tips For Better Security And Entertaining

By James Dulley

ith energy-efficient LEDs and CFLs, it is much easier to light your house effectively without driving up your electric bills. Although these bulbs, especially LEDs, are initially somewhat more expensive, they last for tens of thousands of hours.

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To plan lighting for both home security and when entertaining, it is generally best to plan for two separate lighting layouts. The intensity, location, and light color quality are different for optimal security and entertaining. For example, your security lighting layout must be larger and cover hidden areas that guests will never visit.

Brighter, more intense lighting is better for entertaining than for security. High color

6

MARCH 2021

temperature LED bulbs or integral fixtures produce a whiter light. This is great for entertaining and makes colors look more like they do in daylight. These are often called “daylight” bulbs on the packaging or 4,000K or 5,000K bulbs. The higher the Kelvin rating of the bulb, the cooler and more blue the light emitted will appear. With a lower Kelvin, the light is warmer and more yellow.

For security, a less bright light with a lower color temperature in the 2,700K range is best to use. If brighter security light is used, it causes a person’s pupils to get smaller from the glare.

This makes it more difficult to see in unlit or very dimly lit areas where a crook may be hiding.

Entertainment Lighting Planning your lighting for entertaining is fairly simple, so do this first. You know where you and your guests will be and what activities will typically be going on.

Lighting around your front door is the first area that every guest sees, and you want it to be as welcoming as possible.

Bright, whiter light is ideal here. Select two fixtures from one-quarter to onethird the height of your front door so they don’t look too small or too large for the entrance area. The center of the bulb should be 66 to 72 inches above the floor. This also provides a nice appearance from the street.

LED bulbs or integral LED light fixtures are the best choice for the front door.

This is particularly true in colder climates.

LEDs reach their full brightness almost instantly. CFLs take a few seconds to warm up and get bright when it’s cold.

If someone knocks on your door, you want full brightness as soon as you switch on the lights. For other fixtures where the lights are on for a while, CFLs are fine.

For general entertaining where less bright lighting is adequate, consider using low-voltage landscaping fixtures around a deck or patio. These are very easy and safe to install yourself. This also provides the opportunity to change or add to the lighting pattern at any time in just a few minutes.

It’s also good to install shielded light fixtures. These block the light from shining up into the sky. This light is wasted and contributes to light pollution. Light pollution is annoying to neighbors and a danger to birds and wildlife. Visit darksky.org for more information.

Security Lighting Security lighting planning takes more thought, and there are more lighting options. If a house and yard are illuminated properly, a thief will usually avoid it. To plan security lighting, switch on the indoor lights that you normally use. Take a walk around your house and look for locations that are not lighted.

Pay particular attention to windows or doors that may be somewhat hidden by shrubs or other landscaping from view.

These are important areas for efficient light fixtures.

PAR38 LED floodlight bulbs are a good choice for specific areas like these. PAR38 bulbs come in a variety of beam angles to fit the area of coverage you need. The angles range from 10 degrees, which is narrow for smaller areas, to 50 degrees, which is a wide flood.

One of the most efficient and effective types of security light is a motionsensing fixture. The time that the light stays on is adjustable from 15 to 60 seconds, so little electricity is used. When the light comes on, a thief assumes he was seen and leaves.

For more security, select a two-level model that keeps a dim light on until it brightens when motion is detected.

Solar-powered LED motion-sensing models are the easiest to install yourself.

Any floodlights should ideally be located nine feet above the ground to be most effective.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

7

We’ve Got You Covered

armer weather is right around the corner, and along with it comes the humidity we know all too well. Humid air is the culprit for many indoor air pollutants found inside homes, like dust mites, mold, and spores that can lead to serious health issues. Excessive moisture in the air can also damage homes, causing the wood to rot or paint to peel.

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Portable dehumidifiers are often undersized and run more than they should, resulting in added energy costs. In spring and summer, many homes need larger whole-home dehumidification solutions.

ENERGY STAR® whole-home dehumidifiers are specifically designed to maintain the proper level of humidity in your entire home. They can save you energy, increase indoor comfort, and prevent mildew and bacterial growth, thereby increasing the quality of the air you breathe. Additional benefits of whole-home dehumidifiers include: • Prevents damp carpet, mold, and mildew.

• Protects your home from damaging moisture.

• Removes up to 16 gallons of water a day.

• No water tray to empty.

Save on energy costs.

A whole-home dehumidifier can also relieve the demands made on your air conditioner during hot, humid days. Drier air feels cooler, so you can turn your thermostat up a few degrees. The A/C doesn’t run as often, saving energy and cutting costs.

Save even more with a $700 incentive when you install a new ENERGY STAR certified whole-home dehumidifier in your home.

Check out additional savings available to you through the Energy Optimization program and select retailers by contacting michigan-energy.org or call 877-296-4319.

WE’VE GOT YO U C OV E R E D Install an ENERGY STAR® certified whole-home dehumidifier to remove excess moisture. n Eliminate unhealthy air n Increase air comfort n Protect from mold & mildew

$700 REBATE

ON QUALIFYING MODELS Online: michigan-energy.org

Phone: 877.296.4319

Energy Optimization programs and incentives are applicable to Michigan electric service locations only.

Incentive applies to qualified items purchased and installed between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021. Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit michigan-energy.org.

GREAT LAKES ENERGY

Wild Animals

CONTEST

1. Frolicking with Bambi—Beth Fiedorowicz, Baldwin 2. Waiting for fish breakfast at South Manistique Lake—Patricia Golden, Kalkaska 3. Moose alert!—Jackie Euper, Morrice 4. Keeping watch—Shelly Sterley, Ludington 5. Lunchtime!—Gary Ventrice, Fountain 6. A walk to Mooney Falls, Havasu Canyon—Kathleen Kelly, Boyne Falls

PHOTO

MOST VOTES!

Enter to win a

$200

energy bill credit!

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2

3

4

5

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Submit Your “Mom & Me” Photos!

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.

Our March theme is Mom & Me. Photos can be submitted by March 20 to be featured in the May issue.

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 2021 will be entered to win a $200 bill credit in December 2021.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

9

MI CO-OP Recipes

Photos by Robert Bruce Photography || Recipes Submitted by MCL Readers and Tested by Recipe Editor Christin McKamey

SOUPS Simmer up with one of these comforting recipes.

WINNING RECIPE!

CHICKEN GNOCCHI SOUP Lisa Weiss, Thumb Electric

1 1 ½ 2 ½ 3–4 8 ¼ ¼ 1 1 2 1

Win a

$50

energy bill credit!

10 MARCH 2021

RECIPE CONTEST

Fruity Desserts due April 1 • Whole Grains due May 1 • Fish & Seafood due July 1 Submit your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $50 bill credit and have your recipe featured in Country Lines with a photo and a video. Submit recipes at micoopkitchen.com or email to recipes@countrylines.com.

tablespoon avocado or olive oil celery stalk, chopped white onion, diced teaspoons minced garlic cup shredded carrots chicken breasts, cooked and diced cups chicken broth teaspoon salt teaspoon freshly ground black pepper teaspoon dried thyme (32-ounce) package potato gnocchi cups half & half cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, onion, garlic, and carrots and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until onions are translucent. Add chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and gnocchi; bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in half & half and spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until spinach is tender. Taste, add additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve.

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

BEST BACON, POTATO AND CABBAGE SOUP EVER

Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy 2 1 2 2 7½ 2¹⁄ ³ 3 1

tablespoons olive oil cup chopped bacon onions, chopped garlic cloves, finely chopped cups vegetable stock cups diced potatoes cups shredded cabbage teaspoon Worcestershire or Tabasco sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3 teaspoons parsley, finely chopped • salt and pepper

Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add bacon, onions, and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently for 5–7 minutes until bacon is crisp and onions are browned. Pour in vegetable stock. Add potatoes, cabbage, Worcestershire/Tabasco and mustard.

Mix well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. Remove pan from heat and allow to cool slightly. Transfer 2½ cups of the soup to food processor or blender. Process briefly to a coarse puree and return to pan. Stir well and return soup to heat. Cook, stirring frequently for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper.

BELLY FRIENDLY CHICKEN AND SWEET POTATO SOUP Katie Schneider, Midwest Energy & Communications

UKRAINIAN BORSCHT

Maryann Selders, HomeWorks Tri-County 2 tablespoons olive oil 1–2 pounds meaty pork ribs, loin, or chops 1 large onion, chopped 5–6 small to medium fresh beets, peeled and cubed 2 (1-pound) cans diced beets 1 (1-pound) can plain sauerkraut, drained and rinsed in cold water ½ small head cabbage, thinly sliced 2 bay leaves • several sprigs of fresh dill • salt and pepper, to taste 1 cup half & half • sour cream

Heat oil in large Dutch oven or stockpot.

Place pork and onions in pot and cook over medium-low heat a few minutes, until meat is browned and onions are translucent. Add fresh beets, canned beets (including juices), sauerkraut, cabbage, and bay leaves. Add enough water just to cover all ingredients.

Bring to boil. As foam forms on top of broth, skim off and discard. When this is complete, add a few of the sprigs of fresh dill, and salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce heat to very low OR place in a slow cooker and simmer for 2–3 hours, covered. Remove meat from pot; discard any bones and excess fat.

Shred meat with fork; return to pot. Put 1½ cups of broth in a medium bowl and slowly add half & half to it. Stir and then slowly add back into main pot of soup.

If done too fast, the milk will curdle. It is still okay to eat but just does not look as pretty. Serve with sour cream and remaining fresh dill to garnish.

4 cups chicken bone broth ½ cup nondairy milk (almond, coconut, etc.), divided 2 cooked chicken breasts, finely chopped 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into small chunks (2 cups) 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into small chunks (2 cups) 2 carrots, peeled and chopped 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 teaspoons turmeric • freshly ground black pepper, to taste Combine bone broth and half of the nondairy milk in a large saucepan. Stir in the cooked chicken, sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, ginger, and turmeric.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened. Blend to smooth using a blender or immersion/ hand blender. Or keep as-is for a chunkier soup. Finally, add the remaining half of the dairy-free milk to the mixture and stir through to make it extra creamy. Serve immediately. Add black pepper if desired.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

11

Paul Byl– GLE Board Director

Nurturing Growth In The Community very successful farmer stems from a foundation based on dedication, attentiveness to his or her crop’s needs, and hard work. Paul Byl, Great Lakes Energy (GLE) Board Director and local farmer, is no exception.

Paul’s family farm in Shelby has played a role in shaping him into the person he is today. Aside from time away for college, Paul (now along with his wife Anne), has lived on the very farm his parents established since he was 10 years old.

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During asparagus season, especially following bouts of heavy rain, the days are long with spraying demands.

Cherries require the same demand for care and attention in the summer months. Putting in 14-hour days to get produce ready for the processor is a necessity that Paul understands thoroughly.

“I want to see GLE continue to maintain the lines and carry on with great reliability, but at the same time, we want to keep building infrastructure and remain affordable, too. It’s a fine line, but I think we are doing a great job.”

—Paul Byl

“To prevent infection in asparagus and fruit trees during prolonged periods of rain or storms, we will have to begin our day at 4 or 5 in the morning to spray,” explains Paul.

“With the cherry season, we start at the first moment of sunlight in the morning, and we’ll shake until 6 in the evening, then maintenance and prep work for the following day until 10 or 11 p.m.”

“I really like the staff at GLE. They’re excellent. They’re hard workers with good moral fiber. They have the members’ hearts in their minds and do what is best for them,” Paul said. “I want to see GLE continue to maintain the lines and carry on with great reliability, but at the same time, we want to keep building infrastructure and remain affordable, too. It’s a fine line, but I think we are doing a great job.”

When spare time becomes more readily available in the off months, Paul makes sure to take his dogs, Ada and Oliver, out for a stroll along the beach. Combing for driftwood is a therapeutic escape. He can step away to collect himself and return with a clear head and direction. Paul also dedicates his time to help in his community. He volunteers at the Ladder Community Center in Shelby, a facility that serves adults and senior citizens during the day and middle school and high school students in the afternoons. He is also involved with a group that facilitates recreational activities for youth.

Never one to simply be content, Paul admits that his commitment to the members of GLE keeps his mind racing.

“Especially following a big storm, I question myself,” Paul said. “Should we have done more tree trimming? Should we clear the lines more than we currently are? We seem to be able to recover from storms very well, and members around here are appreciative of how quickly we bounce back, but I am always looking for improvement.”

That dedication to work and community, planted in Paul like a seed, has grown and spread into other endeavors in his life. Paul has been a GLE board member for 37 years.

12 MARCH 2021

Looking ahead, Paul is excited to bring Truestream fiber internet to members in his district. “Due to COVID, a lot of people are staying in their cottages out here year-round.

They would like to work from home, but that possibility is hindered without access to great high-speed internet.

We’re looking forward to answering that need,” he said.

Meet Your Newest Director P

lease join us in welcoming Shelly Pinkelman of Frederic to the Great Lakes Energy (GLE) Board of Directors. Director Pinkelman is stepping into the board seat recently vacated by Larry Monshor of Gaylord, who passed away in December. In the 2020 GLE board of director election, she ran as the challenger to incumbent Monshor. At its January meeting, the GLE board appointed her to fill the remainder of Monshor’s term, which ends in August 2023.

Director Pinkelman resides in voting district 4, which consists of Crawford, Montmorency, Oscoda, and Otsego counties, but she represents all members’ interests.

If Shelly Pinkelman’s name sounds familiar, it may be due to her robust community involvement resume. She has a long history of community and board service, including founding Friends of Frederic, a 501c(3) organization; service as a Crawford County commissioner for 22 years, including board chair; as well as involvement in the Michigan Association of Counties Board of Directors, the National Association of Counties Board of Directors, the District Health Department #10 board, the Camp Grayling Restoration Advisory Board, and the Crawford County

Emergency Management board. She also owns and operates her own construction company and is the building and zoning administrator for Frederic Township.

We are excited to welcome Director Pinkelman to GLE and look forward to continuing our mission of serving our members with her in our corner.

Statement Of Nondiscrimination In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

Captain BJ Massey pilots the Laura Ann back to the dock after lifting nets.

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hen zebra mussels or other foreign aquatic invaders find their way into the Great Lakes, the outlook can appear dire. But nature has a way of adapting and even growing. While an entire energy source can diminish and appear to threaten the survival of the fish that feed on it, miraculously, another energy source can present itself, like clouds of gnats whose larvae provided a new food option for local whitefish or menominee. It’s the power of nature and the truth that adaptability is perhaps life’s greatest form of survival.

Commercial fishermen like Jamie and BJ Massey of Massey Fish Co. in St. Ignace, Michigan, have spent their careers watching these sorts of natural phenomena unfold and have taken a cue on the power of flexibility in their own lives. The father and son, representing the fifth and sixth generations of commercial fishermen in their family, understand that you have to understand your surroundings and adapt in order to grow.

“My great-great-great-grandfather, Charlie Massey, came to the area with the Hudson’s Bay Fur Company,” said Jamie Massey, president of Massey Fish Co. “He went on to become a logger, then a commercial fisherman. Six generations later, our family is still in the business, even though it looks completely different.”

Tackling Commercial

With Massey Fish Co.

By Emily Haines Lloyd Photos courtesy of Massey Fish Co.

Charlie Massey likely couldn’t have imagined the massive boats and equipment his family would eventually use in the 21st century. Jamie and BJ both hold their commercial fishing licenses and have turned the small family fishing operation into a thriving business that sells its products not only all over the state, but around the country, as well as internationally. Over the last ten years, the two Masseys currently at the helm have made significant upgrades and improvements to their infrastructure, including blast and storage freezers with electric upgrades made possible by Cloverland Electric Cooperative.

“There’s no set handbook on how to grow your business,” said BJ. “You have to be quick to think and then react to the circumstances. This is something we learned on the water; you have to be agile.”

One of the key components to the company’s growth, with an approximately 25% increase in the last year, is the commitment to not only fishing the Great Lakes, but investing in the processing of its catch, including its famed smoked fish.

“As a company, we could choose to catch and sell our fish, which would allow our families to make a living,” said BJ. “But by processing and packaging it here, we’re creating at least 20 more livelihoods and having a real impact on our community. It’s a big responsibility, but one we’re willing to take on.”

Massey Fish Co. makes over 100 products with the fish it catches and purchases each season, which in some years has been as much as 1.5 million pounds. Its reach continues to grow as it dips into off-season fishing (November–May)— braving the harsh conditions and below zero temps. It is continually looking for market growth, and about a decade ago, found a surprising niche with farmers markets in the state. What started as testing the waters with a couple of coolers at one outdoor market has grown into its product being available at 33 farmers markets, including the largest in the state, as consumers have a sincere interest in locallysourced and quality fish as a protein source.

“We sell what’s fresh and plentiful. And we only sell what we’d be willing to eat,” said BJ. “And I can tell you this— we’re picky.”

Their pickiness has paid off. However, their love of the outdoors and their respect for nature could be the true keys to Massey Fish Co.’s success. It doesn’t hurt that the father and son love what they do.

Don Massey (Jamie’s and BJ’s father) winches up a trap net.

“I tell people, honestly, for me, fishing is like Christmas morning every day. It’s never been a job,” said Jamie.

“I’ve always loved and respected nature, and when you are enthusiastic about what’s in front of you, there’s a ton of excitement. I think it’s important for everyone to find those things that spark excitement in them. Those passions can last a lifetime.”

1442 West Rd., St. Ignace, MI 49781 906-984-2148

Masseyfish.com

L–R: The crew pulls nets under the ice on Lake Huron.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

15

TRUESTREAM TESTIMONIAL

Truestream Benefits Home Education With The Paga Family

hen Joel and Sarah Paga moved to Boyne City 16 years ago, they faced a tough schooling decision.

Though they had hoped to send their children to Catholic school, the commute was prohibitive. Then the local public school transitioned to full-day kindergarten, which would have caused their oldest child to be away from home much longer than they were expecting.

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“I thought he was too young to be in school all day. We enjoyed our family time and didn’t want him to be away so much at that age. So, we decided to homeschool, at least through kindergarten,” Sarah explains. “After that year, we knew that we truly enjoyed the homeschooling lifestyle and wanted to continue with our other children. It gave us the family- and faith-centered education that we had desired.”

Fast forward 13 years and the Pagas have eight children ranging in age from 3 to 18 years old. Their oldest recently finished his first semester at Ave Maria University in Florida with a 4.0 grade-point average and is on the cross-country team there. All of their other children are homeschooled, and the high schoolers are also involved in athletics and take some classes at St. Michael Academy in Petoskey. Joel works as a dentist in Boyne City at Paga Family Dentistry.

16 MARCH 2021

Many families have been forced to embrace online learning with schools in various capacities of openness due to COVID-19 restrictions. Some have struggled in the transition, but according to Sarah, the key to successful homeschooling is to have clear expectations and to be disciplined in time management.

“All of the children have daily lesson plans, so they know what is expected of them, and I have learned how to allocate my time to make our days run smoothly. I have been through all of the grades at least once now, so that experience is really helpful,” Sarah recounts. “To get everything completed, we have learned to manage our time well. We all know what needs to get done in a day, and that has taught the children to use time wisely, know how to work independently, and know when to seek help. School and family life can work very harmoniously together!”

Keeping disciplined with a smart schedule isn’t the only key to success, though. The Pagas enrolled in a homeschool program, Mother of Divine Grace, which offers parents online classes, transcripts, and planning consultations.

The children have access to an online dashboard with links to their Zoom classes, grades, online quizzes, and assignments for their enrolled courses.

“Having great high-speed internet is super useful for the way we handle home education. Actually, we could not do it this way without quality internet,” Sarah admits. “Our kids, from the time they are in sixth grade, are taking some online classes. Those classes have all switched over to video streaming-based platforms this year. You really need to have high-speed internet to make that happen. Often,

we have two children taking classes at the same time on two different computers in the house. With excellent internet service, I have the freedom to schedule more than one class at a time without worrying about overlapping.”

When Truestream fiber internet became available in the Pagas’ neighborhood, they signed up immediately. While their current internet provider was getting them by, they felt compelled to support their co-op and local business.

“One of the reasons for getting Truestream was that it is significantly faster than anything else available, but we mostly made the switch to support our hometown business.” ­­ —Sarah Paga

“One of the reasons for getting Truestream was that it is significantly faster than anything else available, but we mostly made the switch to support our hometown business,” Sarah said. “There are probably other families going from no internet to this, which would be an unbelievable improvement. We’re coming from a little bit different perspective. After we switched, my husband was doing speed tests immediately, and it was 10 times faster than what we were used to. We looked at the results and thought, ‘Is this really true!?’ It was so fast.”

Another surprising revelation the Pagas experienced was the scope of work involved before their home was fully equipped with fiber internet.

“From start to finish, it took longer than we thought it would—maybe a year and a half. We waited patiently and watched every step of the way. We would periodically report updates like, ‘ooh, the fiber is getting closer!’ or ‘it’s in the neighborhood’ to ‘now it’s at our house!’, Sarah said.

Truestream is gradually building its fiber infrastructure throughout the Great Lakes Energy service area. For some, there is a misconception that they will be able to immediately use the service after construction occurs in their region. Unlike connecting to a pre-existing cable or phone line, the fiber required to transfer Truestream highspeed internet still needs to be installed across GLE poles.

According to Sarah, the benefits of fiber internet fully justify the wait. “This is clearly better,” she said. “Now that we have Truestream, we can stream sports, movies, and TV shows. Especially with sports, quality is consistent without any pixelization or the noticeable fluctuation in quality that we observed before. You can’t beat the speed. Truestream is going to be the fastest internet you can get. It really opens up your options, especially if you’re homeschooling or supplementing your public schooling through the internet. Schooling online from home with high-speed internet is possible. If a family has nothing right now, they would quickly realize the opportunities that arise once it becomes available. They will truly enjoy it.”

Great Lakes Energy is working to build the Truestream fiber network throughout the entire GLE service area, but it will take time.

If you haven’t already, be sure to register your interest at jointruestream.com and encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to register as well!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Community Guest Column

There’s Magic In A Frog Pond

By Steve Begnoche, Great Lakes Energy member

wo ponds near our Upper Peninsula cottage along the shore of Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay are mere puddles compared to the big lake. But they are a world unto themselves that captivate our grandchildren.

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One pond is on the beach near my siblings’ cottages. It’s the outlet of a ditch between Superior Drive and adjacent woody swamps. It leaks icy-cold, tannin-stained, root beercolored water into the bay. It’s been that way since my childhood, more than 60 years ago, when my siblings and I spent hours catching frogs there.

It’s a favorite of my eldest granddaughter Kayleigh, who has heard grandpa’s tales of frog-hunting forays there. Kayleigh began heading to the pond when visiting us, declaring “it’s her turn” to catch frogs in it.

It took practice, patience, and persistence, but eventually, she caught a frog. It’s debatable whether the frog or Kayleigh was more surprised.

This past summer, our grandson Grayson, now 5, netted frogs in a neighbor’s pond. Grayson spent hours stalking the edges of the 8x16-foot man-made pond. Nearly choked with last year’s leaves, he raked it clean to have a better view of the frogs. Neighbor Renee was pleased with the maintenance.

Grayson came equipped with a net, to which he added a stick for a longer handle. Every time he caught a frog, he’d run to anyone in sight or on the beach to show them his catch. Then he’d run back and release the frog into the pond. Grayson enjoys Lake Superior, the bay, the beach, and fishing. This past summer, he was the frog hunter.

In a troubled world, kids find joy in ways kids always have— riveted to catching memories in the little ponds of life.

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Steve Begnoche is a writer and landscape and nature photographer who spent nearly 40 years in community newspapering, including 30 years at the Ludington Daily News. He comes by his love for the Upper Peninsula from his parents, who bought a lot on Whitefish Bay in the 1950s. The family included seven children and vacationed there every summer. He and his wife Brenda, their three children, and five grandchildren carry on that tradition with a place of their own. Five siblings also have places along the bay shared with their families.

Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $150 for stories published! Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

Where In Michigan Is This?

Identify the correct location of the photo above by February 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $50 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

January 2021 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Steve Pelli, an Ontonagon County REA member, who correctly identified the photo as the Cooley Bridge, which was built in 1934 and is one of Michigan’s rarest bridge types. Photo by Karen Farrell.

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

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