March 2024 GLE

The

Scholarship

You don’t have to lower the thermostat to control your heating bills. WaterFurnace geothermal systems use the clean, renewable energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. And because WaterFurnace units don’t use any fossil fuels or combustion, the EPA calls it the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to condition our homes.2 Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to learn how WaterFurnace is good for the environment, your budget and the feeling in your toes.

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

Clifford

Orton Refrig & Htg (989)761-7691

sanduskygeothermal.com

Filion/Bad Axe

Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989)582-0137

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665

adamsheating cooling.com

Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201

mm-plumbing.com

Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890

candormechanical.com

Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616)897-4213

heatingcoolingonline.com

Manistique Hoholik Enterprises (906)341-5065 hoholikenterprises.com

Marinette, WI GPS Htg. & Clg (715)732-2111

gpsheatingcooling.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

Muskegon

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

Negaunee J-Goods Plmb. & Htg. (906)869-2522

jgoodsplumbingand heating.com

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)941-1251 dwmechanical.com

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’s Electric Cooperatives

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, 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: Tom Sobeck, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty 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.

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A SOLEFUL MISSION

Travis Snyder takes steps to highlight veterans’ mental health.

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MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Soups & Stews: Dish out a steaming bowl of comfort food.

14 BEYOND MEDALS

The enduring spirit of Michigan’s Special Olympics Athletes.

18 GUEST COLUMN

Old Friends: A Midwest Energy & Communications member rhapsodizes about the value of lifelong friendships.

MI Co-op Community

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

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Tacos & Margaritas due April 1 and Homemade Burgers due May 1. Win a $100 bill credit!

Guest Column

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

Mystery Photo

See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!

/greatlakesenergy gtlakes.com /jointruestream

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Howard Bowersox, Chairman, District 8 219-670-0977

hbowersox@glenergy.com

Mark Carson, Vice Chairman, District 2 231-675-0561

mcarson@glenergy.com

Paul Byl, Secretary, District 7 231-861-5911

pbyl@glenergy.com

Dale Farrier, Treasurer, District 5 231-564-0853

dfarrier@glenergy.com

Janet Andersen, Director, District 6 231-690-4622

jandersen@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 4 989-217-8379

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.

Change of Address: 888-485-2537, ext. 8924

Great Lakes Energy is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WGLE Is ‘At Home’ In Your Community

hether it’s with our families, friends, workplaces, places of worship, service clubs, or athletic teams, nearly every aspect of our lives is organized around belonging to something.

It’s great to feel like you are welcome, respected, appreciated, understood, and valued for who you are and the role you play. Said another way, it’s nice to feel “at home” in these circles.

In much the same way, I and the rest of the team at Great Lakes Energy are grateful and honored to feel “at home” in the communities we serve. This sense of belonging is also what drives us to work hard every day to help improve the lives of our members and their communities. It’s also the driving force behind the many educational and community initiatives your cooperative offers.

Here are a few examples:

• We offer scholarships for students pursuing careers in electrical engineering, information technology, or electrical linework. You can read more about this year’s approaching application deadline for these scholarships on the next page.

• Each year we offer grants worth up to $2,000 to schools that educate children of GLE members to fund innovative programs, particularly those involving technology.

• GLE sends four high school sophomores or juniors to Washington, D.C., each year to participate in the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.

• We are proud to partner with the Char-Em Intermediate School District and Boyne City Public Schools to offer a lineworker training program to high school students in northern Michigan.

• The People Fund, which has awarded more than $4.5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations since its inception in 1999, also regularly supports educational programs throughout our service area.

All of these examples help bring our members and communities together with a sense of belonging to something greater. The cooperative spirit gives us purpose and reinforces our commitment to continual improvement within our organization. Whether we’re working to prevent power outages from happening or making sure we are prepared for the challenges of a rapidly changing electric industry, it’s critical for us to be continually asking ourselves, “How can we get better?”

In addition to our grid reliability efforts and our ongoing work to expand our Truestream fiber internet network, we are also always looking for other ways to improve our members’ lives by providing more value and convenience. Recent enhancements to our outage notification offerings and our newly enabled suite of consumer analytics tools are just two examples of our commitment to improvement.

Whether it’s education and community outreach, neighbors helping neighbors, expansion of our life-changing fiber network, or improvements in reliability, we are bound together through a sense of purpose and connection. Like you, I’m a GLE member, and I hope that you share my feeling of pride in belonging to a member-owned cooperative.

Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy President/CEO

Scholarship Application Deadline

Is March 31

One of the many ways Great Lakes Energy demonstrates its connection to and support for the communities it serves is through supporting educational opportunities both in local classrooms and for those seeking education beyond high school.

That’s why we’re proud to continue two scholarship programs for the 2024-25 school year for people enrolled in a lineworker training program and those pursuing degrees in electrical engineering or information technology. The application submission deadline is March 31.

A total of 10 scholarship opportunities are available, ranging from $1,000–$2,500 per school year or program year through these two programs.

The lineworker training scholarship program offers up to six $1,000 scholarships for students pursuing certification or a degree related to a pre-apprentice electrical lineworker program at an accredited institution in Michigan.

The degree-seeking program offers two scholarships worth up to $2,500 for students pursuing degrees

related to electrical engineering and two for students pursuing degrees related to information technology at any accredited college or university in the United States.

Scholarship eligibility requirements are included on the applications, which are available online at gtlakes.com/ youth-programs/ or by contacting GLE’s human resources manager at (231) 485-2537, ext. 8478, or via email at hr@glenergy.com.

In 2023, GLE awarded a total of $14,000 in scholarships between the two programs.

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.

A Soleful Mission

Travis Snyder Takes Steps to Highlight Veterans’ Mental Health

By Emily Haines Lloyd

When Travis Snyder returned from his tour in Afghanistan as a U.S. Marine, he was both proud and relieved that everyone in his unit was brought home in one piece. It took time, as well as a pivotal and heartbreaking experience, to realize that maybe he and his unit actually didn’t come back all put together.

This was the beginning of a new journey for Snyder, one that took an unexpected path to a new purpose.

A Tour of Duty

When Snyder joined the Marines at 24, he was looking to make an impact, serve his country, and find both discipline and direction in his life.

When his unit was deployed in October of 2017, it worked in Security Forces with a mission to train, advise, and assist the Afghan army against the Taliban. “We saw it as a blessing,” said Snyder. “You go through this training in order to serve. Serve our country.

Serve a community and its people. It was a chance to do good.”

Eight months later, Snyder and his entire unit returned home—back to normal. However, it didn’t take long for Snyder to realize things weren’t exactly normal. He still wanted and needed purpose, but instead found depression and anxiety attacks. Snyder pushed through them, unsure when or if they would stop.

In August of 2019, one year after his tour, Snyder received a devastating phone call. A good friend from his unit, Geoff Hughes, had committed suicide.

Walking for Warriors

The loss of Geoff was an unthinkable blow. Snyder had a desire for direction when he joined the Marines. Now he was unsure what to do next. With feelings of being untethered and his grief and shock over Geoff, Snyder knew he needed to do something to change his course and make an impact like he had in the service. “I knew I had to do something. Something big,” said Snyder. “There are too many of my brothers and sisters in the service who feel like I did when I got home— aimless, disconnected.”

As a way to commemorate his friend and to shake up his own life, Snyder took a walk. A long walk. Around Lake Michigan.

A Mission of Miles

Snyder’s “walk” turned into an 810-mile journey around the whole of Lake Michigan. He’d started a Facebook page for some friends and family to keep track of his trek.

Snyder knew he wanted to make this trip about veterans and mental health, so he arranged stops along the way to connect with different organizations and bring awareness to their causes.

Snyder had packed his camping gear, expecting to spend most nights outdoors along the way. He never had a chance to unpack it. “The first night, a friend from the Marines called me and told me his parents lived along the way and were happy to let me sleep in their RV for the evening,” said Snyder. “Forty-two straight nights, people offered me a place to sleep. You look at social media thinking there’s so much that is bad, but if you really look around you, there are so many good people in the world.”

And speaking of social media, the five to 10 people he expected to follow him on Facebook turned into 14,000, with another 3,000 on Instagram. The word had gotten out about Snyder’s wild walk. People were tuning in to hear and learn more about veterans’ issues, particularly mental health.

Next Steps

Snyder put on his hiking shoes each year through 2023, including walking along the West Michigan lakeshore from New Buffalo to Mackinaw City, across the state, and around Lake Michigan again—totaling 2,590 miles and raising over $15,000 dollars for veteran organizations. “That first mile back in 2019 was to commemorate a friend,” said Snyder. “I may have taken those steps on my own, but what’s been accomplished has been through a community of caring people. It would not have been possible without them.”

A reminder that no one should walk alone in this life. And with the help of people like Travis Snyder, hopefully fewer of us will.

“I may have taken those steps on my own, but what’s been accomplished has been through a community of caring people. It would not have been possible without them.”

/travishikeslakemi

/travishikeslakemi

How Does Your Home’s Energy Use Compare?

When you travel around your neighborhood, from time to time you’ve probably noticed changes your neighbors have made to their homes or yards. Sometimes, seeing those improvements might have even inspired you to consider making some similar improvements to your own home.

These trips down the road or around the block might provide you with ample opportunity to assess your home’s appearance compared to others in the area, but they don’t tell you much about how energy efficient those homes might be compared to yours.

Although it might seem like an unusual comparison to consider, evaluating how your home’s energy efficiency stacks up against other homes in your area can be a great way to find opportunities to save on both your energy consumption and your electric bill. That’s because your home’s energy use can be heavily dependent on the climate where you live.

Fortunately, the new suite of consumer analytics tools GLE recently enabled through members’ online accounts and the GLE mobile app offers a

tool that will provide just such a comparison. The tool will provide you with a comparison of your home’s energy use compared to similarsized average and energy efficient homes in your area. The comparison tool includes tabs for total energy use, heating, cooling, and “always on” energy use. This information is important because it can help you identify what systems in your home might offer the most opportunity for savings.

The information under the “heating” tab for the home in the example below reveals much more electric use than that of average and efficient homes during the cooler weather months. This data might suggest that there may be significant savings to be found by investing in the home’s heating system.

The home comparison is just one of the energy-use tools GLE members

now have right at their fingertips thanks to GLE’s new suite of consumer analytics tools.

The new system uses a process known as disaggregation to analyze the same power consumption data from your home’s meter that is used to calculate your electric bill. The system doesn’t directly detect which device, system, or appliance in your home is using power. Instead, it uses computer models to look for distinct “fingerprints” of power use that can be attributed to appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, water heaters, and ovens. With the right software algorithms, the usage of specific appliances or home systems can be identified and estimated.

These tools are another example of Great Lakes Energy’s commitment to empowering its members in addition to providing reliable, affordable electric and internet service.

The similar home comparison tool is available under the “Usage” menu in your GLE online account or the GLE mobile app. You can access your online account at gtlakes.com or by using the QR code above.

Pets

Enter to win a $200 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Flowers & Gardens” photos By March 20

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 Flowers & Gardens. 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 2024 will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 bill credit in December 2024.

MOST VOTES!

1. Therapy dog visiting with superheroes at DeVos Children’s Hospital, Jerry McCarthy, Mears

2. Do you have treats for me?, Emily Kroll-Shaddock, New Era

3. Enjoying the beauty of the Pine River, Elaine Striler, Tustin

4. Doggone good read!, Julianne Kerr, Cadillac

5. Beware of dog, Brandon Wemple, Rothbury

6. Puppy fun!, AmiJo Voorheis, Custer

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SOUPS & STEWS

Dish Out a Steaming Bowl of Comfort Food.

Recipe Contest

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Tacos & Margaritas due April 1; Homemade Burgers due May 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

WINNING RECIPE!

GARLIC, TORTELLINI, SPINACH & TOMATO SOUP

Kathleen Atwater, Cherryland Electric

2 tablespoons butter

6–8 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup chopped onion

6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

9 ounces fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

10 ounces spinach, washed and coarsely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

1 egg

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ teaspoon salt

¹⁄ 8 teaspoon black pepper

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant, 2–3 minutes. Add the chicken broth; bring to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook halfway, about 5 minutes for frozen pasta, or 2–3 minutes if using fresh pasta. Add the can of tomatoes; reduce the heat to a simmer and cook just until the pasta is tender, about 4 minutes. Stir in the spinach and oregano and cook until wilted, 1–2 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Drizzle into the soup and cook, stirring about 3 minutes more. Remove from heat and serve. Add additional salt and pepper, as desired. Makes about 6 servings.

BEEF STEW

Ralph Kridner, Great Lakes Energy

6 ounces bacon, chopped into ¼ -inch strips

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces

2½ teaspoons sea salt (or to taste), divided

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups dry red wine, plus extra for deglazing

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

5 carrots, peeled and cut into ½ -inch pieces

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 stalks celery, finely diced

6 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

3–4 cups low-sodium beef broth

8 ounces red wine demi-glace sauce

2 bay leaves

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced

1 sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped

1 pound small (fingerling) potatoes, halved or quartered

Preheat oven to 300 F. In a large, oven-proof pot, sauté bacon over medium heat until golden brown and fat is released. While bacon is cooking, place beef in a large mixing bowl and season with 1½ teaspoons salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle beef with flour; toss to

combine and evenly coat beef. Transfer beef in batches into the hot bacon fat and cook over medium-high heat, until beef is browned (2–3 minutes per side). Add olive oil if needed. When the bacon in the pot is golden brown, remove it and put it in a large bowl. Transfer browned beef to the bowl with bacon. Add a bit of red wine to the pot to deglaze, then reduce the heat to lowmedium. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release meat pieces. Add balsamic vinegar and simmer over low-medium heat, about 10 minutes, being careful not to burn. Pour 2 cups red wine in with the beef and bacon. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, celery, and garlic; sauté 10 minutes. Then add the tomato paste and sauté another 1–2 minutes. Then return the beef, bacon, and wine to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine demi-glace sauce, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir until the demi-glace has melted. Then add potatoes and stir to combine everything, submerging the potatoes in liquid. Cover with lid and bake for 2 to 3 hours. To thicken, combine 2 tablespoons water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix well and add to stew. Stir well and heat for 5 minutes. Pour into bowls, add a sprinkle of salt, serve, and enjoy!

CREAM OF CAULIFLOWER AND CHICKEN SOUP

Nancy Hascall, Cherryland Electric

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 stalks celery, diced

1 small head cauliflower, chopped into small florets

1 large onion, diced

1 large carrot, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

3 cups chicken broth (or more to reach desired consistency)

1 cup salsa

1 cup cooked, diced chicken

1 cup grated cheese of choice

1 cup half-and-half

VINNY’S SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

2 slices bacon

1 yellow onion, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

¼ cup all-purpose flour

4 cups milk

1 cup firm white fish (cod, tilapia, halibut, etc.)

½ pound shrimp or any other seafood of choice

½ cup corn

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Sauté bacon in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until crispy, 3–4 minutes. Remove bacon from pot and chop into small pieces. Drain all but 1 tablespoon bacon grease from the pot. Add diced onions and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium heat until soft, 3–4 minutes. Add potatoes and sauté 1–2 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Add the flour and stir, cooking until the flour is completely moistened. Add the milk and increase the heat to medium. Heat the soup until it is steaming, just before it starts to boil, stirring often. Continue cooking, uncovered, until the potatoes are nearly tender, 10–15 minutes. Reduce heat if milk begins to foam. When soup has thickened, add seafood, corn, and cooked bacon. Cook until fi sh is cooked through, 5–10 minutes. Add salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley.

Garnishing Options:

sour cream, Parmesan cheese, guacamole, fresh cilantro, crispy bacon

Heat the olive oil In a large kettle. Add the celery, cauliflower, onion, carrot and garlic; sauté for about fi ve minutes. Cover, turn the heat to low, and cook for another fi ve minutes or until vegetables are soft. Add the chicken broth, salsa, and cooked chicken. Blend with an immersion blender. Add the cheese and gently stir until the cheese is melted. Add the halfand-half and heat to desired temperature. Garnish each bowl with choice of sour cream, Parmesan, guacamole, cilantro, and cooked bacon. Enjoy!

Michigan Electric Co-ops Contribute Billions to State Economy, Says Latest Report

Areport released in late 2023 titled “Economic Powerhouses: The Economic Impacts of America’s Electric Cooperatives” sheds light on the significant economic influence of electric cooperatives in the United States, with a specific focus on their contributions to job creation, income generation, and overall economic growth. This analysis underscores the pivotal role of electric cooperatives at both the national and state levels, with a closer look at the impact within Michigan.

The report reveals that these cooperatives have a substantial statewide impact, supporting approximately 7,388 jobs annually and contributing a remarkable $5.3 billion to Michigan’s Gross State Product (GSP).

“Our state’s electric cooperatives power 300,000 homes, businesses, and farms in 60 of the 83 counties across rural Michigan,” said Michigan Electric Cooperative Association President Craig Borr. “Co-ops are a massive economic engine statewide, as well as in their local communities.”

Beyond these direct economic figures, there are broader implications. Electric cooperatives stimulate economic

activity throughout their communities, fostering a ripple effect that extends to supply chains, suppliers, employee spending, and community engagement. Moreover, they play a crucial role in supporting long-term community success and making substantial investments in grid modernization, renewable energy, and broadband networks to serve rural members.

“It’s not just about numbers,” said Borr. “It’s about committing to make a positive impact in the communities that our cooperatives serve.”

The report emphasizes cooperatives’ pivotal role as economic engines in both local and state economies, highlighting their commitment to rural development and the overall economic vitality of the regions they serve. The findings show what those in the cooperative community have always known—there is nothing more impactful and powerful than a mission that focuses on people, not profits.

A link to the full report is available in the online version of this story at meca.coop/meca-news-2/.

7,388

THE CLEAN ENERGY BALANCING ACT

Shrinking electric supply, growing electric demand

THE BROADENING GAP BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND

Rising Electric Demand

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

50% increase in electric demand is projected for Michigan over the next 15 years.

Diminishing Electric Supply

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

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

WE SUPPORT CLEAN ENERGY, BUT THE GROWING IMBALANCE BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND POSES A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO ELECTRIC RELIABILITY

The clean energy transition is underway and Great Lakes Energy leads by example, providing members with energy that is 60% carbon free.

Nearly 2x the regional average. vs.

60% Co-op’s Fuel Mix

35% Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

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

66%

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

88% of the time Michigan imports energy from outside its borders to keep the lights on for homes and businesses.

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

Sources:

BEYOND MEDALS

The Enduring Spirit of Michigan’s Special Olympics

Athletes

By Emily Haines Lloyd

n 2000, the former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela said: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does…Sport can create hope where once there was only despair…It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination.”

In Michigan, there are some amazing athletes who would surely agree with Mr. Mandela.

SOMETHING SPECIAL IN THE MAKING

Since 1968, when the first Special Olympics Games were held at Chicago’s Soldier Field, these athletes with intellectual disabilities have been a force of inspiration and support for one another. The goal was to put a bright—and very public—spotlight on ability, not disability. A delegation of athletes from Michigan attended those original games. The next year, Michigan’s first State Summer Games took place in Kalamazoo at Western Michigan University.

Fifty years later, more than 5 million athletes train and compete in more than 100,000 events each year, in 172 nations. The program has grown perhaps more than anyone could have anticipated and the impact is massive. Yet it still brings meaning to one athlete, one coach, and one family at a time.

A SPARK OF INTEREST

Max Hinga was just 8 years old when his curiosity was sparked at his elementary school in Portage, Michigan, by a friend who fi rst mentioned Special Olympics to him. Max then began his sports journey with softball. “I was the youngest and smallest player on an almost all-adult team,” said Max. “But I was ready to go and felt at home.”

From that point on, Max’s involvement became a life-altering experience, introducing him to lifelong friendships and instilling in him a sense of belonging. Max’s mother Gretchen Hinga became equally involved, as she noticed there were significantly more adult athletes than those her son’s age. “Within a year, I was recruiting younger athletes,” said Gretchen. “With more

athletes comes the need for more volunteers. So, I started recruiting for volunteers.”

In no time, the numbers grew, and Gretchen found herself as the local outreach coordinator. She now plays a pivotal role in managing, coordinating, and organizing various aspects of the games, from athlete physicals to volunteer applications and verifying coaching credentials.

NURTURING A COMMUNITY OF INCLUSION

Max’s dedication extends beyond the playing field; he has become a U.S. Youth Ambassador, amplifying the voices of those who often go unheard. “Not everyone can get up and speak to the whole world about change and inclusion,” said Max. “I traveled with my Unified Partner and my mentor, spoke about inclusion, and learned how to spread the word to others.”

For Gretchen, Special Olympics is more than just a series of events; it is a community that provided support and companionship while Max was growing up. Now, as a coordinator, she is dedicated to extending that sense of community to others. “Special Olympics is about so much more than just sports. It is one big family of support and encouragement,” said Gretchen. “It is a lifelong movement and is for anyone.” She encourages those who may not qualify as athletes to become volunteers, assuring them that the experience will be life-changing.

A TRIUMPH OF ABILITIES OVER DISABILITIES

The impact of the games can’t be easily measured, as passion, inclusion, and growth of the athletes, families, and volunteers have an ongoing ripple effect that goes well beyond the sporting arena. “Special Olympics challenged me to not only want to get my driver’s license, but show many people I can be a leader,”

said Max. “We (athletes) can get a job, get a degree, and be who we want to be. I’ve turned my disabilities into abilities.”

This smart and capable young man insists that no one should ever say they can’t do something. Our efforts can’t be measured in medals or applause. It is the effort, the courage, and the joy with which we apply ourselves that tells the world who we are.

As Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who helped establish Special Olympics, said at the first opening games: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

FOR INFORMATION: somi.org

TO VOLUNTEER: somi.org/volunteer

TO DONATE: somi.org/waystogive

UNIFIED SPORTS & INCLUSION CENTER IN GRAND RAPIDS

For over 50 years, Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) has sought to create a community of inclusion where every person is accepted and welcomed, regardless of ability or disability.

In 2019, the SOMI Board of Directors purchased the former South Christian High School building in Grand Rapids with the dream of turning this 127,000-square-foot facility on 17 acres into the largest Special Olympics training and sports center in the world.

With the official groundbreaking in November 2023, the complex will feature six soccer fields, 10 bocce courts, putting and chipping greens, and pickleball courts, as well as an eight-lane track and an artificial turf soccer and flag football field.

Building Community Connections

At Great Lakes Energy, creating and maintaining strong connections are critical elements of our daily operations. But these connections go far beyond the electric and fiber optic lines that provide affordable, reliable electric power and high-speed internet service to our members. As your memberowned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, it’s these connections and the sense of community belonging that comes with them that inspire our drive for continual improvement within our organization, in the lives of our members, and in the communities we serve.

One of the ways we pursue our mission to improve the lives of our members and the communities we serve is by offering programs that support education such as:

Scholarships

GLE offers scholarships of $1,000–$2,500 for students pursuing careers in electrical engineering, information technology, or electrical linework.

Luke Rokop of Otsego County was a 2023 recipient of a $2,500 scholarship from GLE. Luke is attending Michigan State University, majoring in information science with a minor in business.

“As the oldest of two sons of a widowed high school teacher, getting money for school has been a top concern of mine. Receiving this scholarship will lighten the monetary load placed on me.”

Classroom Grants

Each year we offer grants worth up to $2,000 to schools that educate children of GLE members to fund innovative programs, particularly those involving technology or equipment that will enrich students’ education. GLE has funded 204 projects since the program began in 2012 and will award up to $30,000 in total grants for the 2024–25 school year.

A $1,500 grant to Big Rapids Middle School to help pay for robotics materials was just one of the 18 Classroom Grants GLE awarded in 2023.

Youth Tour

GLE sends four high school sophomores or juniors to Washington, D.C., each year to participate in the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. This all-expenses-paid trip gives students the chance to learn about leadership, civic engagement, and the cooperative spirit. Participants explore monuments and museums, meet with a member of Congress, and make lifelong friends with other students from across the country.

Jurgen, a 2023 program participant from Ellsworth, said, “I think one of the best things about it was meeting all the other kids from around the country who were our age and who place the same kind of importance on academics and leadership.”

Feeding On Innovation

To say David Coveyou’s roots run deep in northern Michigan would be an understatement. David, who serves as the representative for Emmet County in the District 1 seat on the Great Lakes Energy Board of Directors, is the fifth generation to operate his family farm south of Petoskey.

Coveyou Scenic Farm, which was founded as an original homestead under President Grant in 1874, will be celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

David grew up on the family farm that he now operates with his wife Kathy and their four children. After high school, he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering. His professional career began in California, where he designed communications satellites. He later moved to the East Coast, where he worked in engineering design and design management. But his Michigan farming roots were never far from his mind. Then, about 20 years ago as his parents were getting ready to retire from farming, he had a decision to make.

“I had the opportunity to determine whether our farm here would remain a farm, and I just didn’t want that legacy ending on my watch,” David said.

So, he moved his family back to Michigan with plans to use his engineering know-how to make the family farm economically viable in northern Michigan. Today the farm has grown into a well-known provider of fresh, organically grown produce and other agricultural products.

David said one of the keys to the farm’s success is keeping operating costs down. To do this, David has employed multiple new technologies such as a 20-kilowatt solar array, using geothermal systems to heat the farm’s greenhouse and cool its walk-in produce coolers, and using an electric variable frequency drip irrigation system.

“I had the opportunity to determine whether our farm here would remain a farm, and I just didn’t want that legacy ending on my watch.”

David said these systems are not only significant in controlling the farm’s operating costs, but they dovetail nicely with the farm’s efforts to use sustainable and organic growing practices.

His passion to help keep family farms viable throughout the area led him to serve for nine years on his township’s planning commission. He also hosts an intern program on the farm, through which he shares the agricultural practices he’s developed.

David said he ran for GLE’s board of directors because he believed his unique blend of knowledge would also be an asset to GLE’s board.

David said he’s eager to help GLE meet the challenges of the changing electric industry and he’s excited about the continued growth of Truestream. He sees how it is changing the lives of GLE members just like electric service did for his grandfather when the cooperative first brought electric service to the farm.

David, who was first elected to the board in 2021, is one of three board members whose terms on the board are expiring later this year. David intends to seek reelection to another three-year term on the board.

Old Friends

By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications member

It has been said that “old friends are the best friends.” I surely agree. Growing up in Grand Rapids, I began forming many friendships, beginning in kindergarten in 1950. In those days, we didn’t hang out with our parents much...we hung out with our friends. You could say we raised each other, as we were always together having fun.

Although I went to Culver Military Academy in high school, my GR friends kept in touch. I then moved to New Jersey and Florida for a few years. Several friends would visit me in Florida (imagine that), and one suggested that I transfer to Western Michigan University for my junior year, and sent the paperwork. I couldn’t wait to get back to Michigan and live off-campus with some of those same friends. We had the time of our lives!

During the late ‘60s/early ‘70s, most of us got married, raised children, and worked. Many moved out of state, making it difficult to get together. In 1981, however, one of the guys decided that enough was enough and started what we call “the boys’ weekend,” a time to reconnect and let loose. There were around 15 attendees that first year, many from out of state. Some years, an extra weekend was planned with the wives, who wanted to join in the fun. In 1993, we rented a cottage on Lake Michigan in South Haven, and we have been going there every September to this day. Unfortunately, we have lost a number of these dear friends over the years, but nine of us continue the tradition.

This May, we (and wives) are meeting in Grand Rapids to celebrate us all turning 80. We will take a bus tour of our childhood homes (16), then be dropped off at Roses for dinner. There is nothing like old friends, as we hold on to so many memories of good times together, while still making new memories!

About the Author: J. Joseph is a retired owner/manager of Bank Street Bingo Hall and Bank Street Winter Market in Kalamazoo.

His family’s history is interesting! The grandfather he was named after (Col. J. Joseph Reddy) was a medic and surgeon who was General Douglas MacArthur’s personal aide and physician in the Philippines in the 1930s.

Guest Column

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Where In Michigan Is This?

Identify the correct location of the photo to the left by March 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community

January 2024 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Eileen Gustafson, an Alger Delta member, who correctly identified the photo as the Benny the Beard Fisher art attraction at the Northland Outfitters Campground, Germfask, Michigan. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.

HOW DOES THE

• Attaches to your home’s existing heating system, it does not replace it.

• Delivers 90% on average of your home’s heating needs and 100% of your home’s cooling needs.

• If you have a well and are heating with propane, fuel oil, electric or wood, your current heating and cooling cost is likely greater than it would be to fully finance and heat & cool with a Well-Connect.

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