March 2026 Cherryland

Cherryland Electric Cooperative

March 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Tapping into the Sweet Tradition of Michigan’s

MAPLE SYRUP SEASON Why FEMA Matters Flying Forward Celebrating CEO Rachel Johnson

THERE’S A TREASURE BENEATH YOUR FEET and it can provide you with total home comfort

You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy. A WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system taps into the stored solar energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling, and hot water. And with a 5 Series hydronic unit, you can get radiant floor heat that’s just as comfortable as the air for total home comfort. That’s money in the bank and a smart investment in your family’s comfort. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn how to tap into your buried treasure.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

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

Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

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

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

Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 westmigeothermal.com

$2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

March 2026 Vol. 46, No. 3

/michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.

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Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.

POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.

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CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com

MI CO-OP Community

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative.

See page 4 for contact information.

See details on page 10. Grilled to Perfection, due April 1; Chill Out! No-Cook Recipes, due May 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

RECIPE CONTEST

GUEST COLUMN

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

Win $200 for stories published!

MYSTERY PHOTO

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

14

6 UNDERSTANDING

POWER SURGES How to safeguard your home electronics from unexpected voltage spikes.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Global Comfort Foods: Taste the world, from home.

14 TAPPING INTO THE SWEET TRADITION OF MICHIGAN’S MAPLE SYRUP SEASON The rhythm and rewards of sugaring season.

18 GUEST COLUMN

Sounds of the Past: A journey through summer sounds from a bygone era.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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CO-OP NEWS Serve On Cherryland’s Board Any qualified Cherryland member can be elected to serve a three-year term on the cooperative’s board of directors. Two directors will be elected at this year’s Annual Meeting, including one at-large director and one Leelanau County director.

LEELANAU BENZIE

GRAND TRAVERSE

MANISTEE

WEXFORD

KALKASKA

To be nominated in 2026, candidates may file a petition with the cooperative’s executive administrative assistant starting the first day of March until 4 p.m. on the last business day of March. To receive a nominating petition, please fill out the board candidate interest form on our website.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gabe Schneider, President 517-449-6453 gschneider@cherrylandelectric.coop Valarie Handy, Senior Vice President 231-392-4705 vhandy@cherrylandelectric.coop Melinda Lautner, Secretary 231-947-2509 mlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop Dean Adams, Treasurer 231-642-0014 dadams@cherrylandelectric.coop Terry Lautner, Director 231-883-6455 tlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop David Schweitzer, Director 231-883-5860 dschweitzer@cherrylandelectric.coop Tom Van Pelt, Director 231-386-5234 tvanpelt@cherrylandelectric.coop

Review Article III of the co-op’s bylaws on our website for more information regarding board nominations and the election process.

Cherryland Offers Four Scholarships Cherryland offers four scholarships— three worth $4,000 for high school seniors and one adult scholarship (post-high school) for $2,000.

CEO Rachel Johnson

Applications for both scholarships are available on our website. The application deadline is Friday, April 3.

CO-OP EDITORS: Courtney Doyle: cdoyle@cherrylandelectric.coop Bailey Watson: bwatson@cherrylandelectric.coop

Save The Date For Cherryland’s 88th Annual Meeting

OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS 231-486-9200 or 1-800-442-8616 (Mich.)

Cherryland’s 88th Annual Meeting will take place on Thursday, June 11. The Annual Meeting’s planned location is Incredible Mo’s in Grawn. Cherryland will provide updates regarding the 88th Annual Meeting in Michigan Country Lines, on our website, and through social media.

ADDRESS P.O. Box 298, Grawn, MI 49637 PAY STATION Cherryland Electric Cooperative office 5930 U.S. 31 South, Grawn MI, 49637 Cherryland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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MARCH 2026

cherrylandelectric.coop

/cherrylandelectriccoop

@cherrylandec

Why FEMA Matters: Before the Storm Hits Home

By Rachel Johnson, Cherryland CEO

A year ago, a devastating ice storm tore through northern Michigan.

It coated trees in ice like glass.

Snapped poles like toothpicks. Left entire communities in the dark for weeks. The scale was staggering. Even for those of us who didn’t take a direct hit, the message was unmistakable: When a storm gets big enough, we all feel it.

Storms like this are why the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) exists.

FEMA is the nation’s backstop for disasters that exceed local and state capacity. It’s there when the damage is too widespread, too expensive, or too complex for communities to shoulder alone.

And while Cherryland wasn’t in the bullseye of last year’s ice storm, FEMA absolutely matters to us because one day, the storm will be ours.

When a major storm hits our system, the costs add up fast. Crews work around the clock. Equipment is destroyed. Temporary repairs turn into permanent rebuilds. Unlike investor-owned utilities, we don’t have shareholders to absorb those costs.

We’re a not-for-profit cooperative, which means 100% of what it costs to restore power is ultimately paid by our member-consumers.

That’s where FEMA reimbursement comes in. It helps ensure that restoring power quickly and safely doesn’t translate into years of higher electric bills for our members. But today, the system isn’t working the way it should. Right now, FEMA’s disaster reimbursement process is

slow, inconsistent, and unpredictable.

Cooperatives can end up waiting years to be reimbursed, and eligible costs can be denied long after the work is done.

It really is that simple. Our members deserve clearer rules, faster decisions, and consistent treatment across disasters.

For electric cooperatives, that uncertainty matters. We don’t have excess cash sitting on the sidelines.

When reimbursement is delayed or denied, those costs don’t disappear; they land squarely on our members’ shoulders through rates, deferred projects, or reduced investment in future resilience.

We invest every day to keep the lights on. We plan for storms we haven’t seen yet. And we do it with one goal in mind: protecting our members from both outages and unnecessary costs.

Our national association, along with electric cooperatives across the country, are advocating for commonsense FEMA reform. Not to expand FEMA’s role. Not to lower standards.

But to make the program function as it was intended.

The changes we’re supporting in the bipartisan FEMA Act of 2025 are straightforward: faster reimbursement, clearer approval processes, better access to resiliency funding, and recognition of the financing costs utilities carry while waiting on FEMA decisions.

The ice storm of 2025 reminds us of what’s possible when nature is at its worst. FEMA reform is about making sure that when the next big storm comes—here or anywhere—we have the tools we need to rebuild.

Because resilience isn’t just about poles and wires. It’s about systems that work when we need them most.

To hear more, listen to the Co-op Energy Talk Podcast

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Surge Protection

101

A power surge is an unexpected increase in voltage, and it can occur from a variety of sources. Regardless of the cause, power surges can majorly damage electronic devices and equipment in your home.

Let’s take a look at common causes of power surges and how you can protect your sensitive electronics.

One of the most common causes of a power surge is lightning.

Most of us have experienced this during a severe thunderstorm. When lightning strikes an electrical system, the excess current must be channeled somewhere— unfortunately, in many cases, it’s sent through a home. Your best bet is to unplug all unused devices and electronics during severe thunderstorms.

Another common cause of power surges is electrical overload.

This happens when devices or appliances are plugged into an outlet that can’t handle the required amount of voltage, or if multiple devices are plugged into one outlet through an extension cord. If you’re experiencing power surges due to electrical overload, it’s time to call a qualified electrician to evaluate your home’s circuits and electrical needs.

Faulty wiring in a home can also cause power surges.

Damaged or exposed wires can cause spikes in voltage, creating a potentially dangerous situation. If you notice signs of faulty wiring, like visible burns on outlets, buzzing sounds from outlets, or frequently tripped circuit breakers, your home may be due for electrical wiring repairs and updates.

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MARCH 2026

Surges can also occur after a power outage.

Sometimes, when electricity is being restored and reconnected, it’s common to experience a quick surge in current. Similar to advice for a surge caused by lightning, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics during the outage— then wait to plug them back in after power is fully restored.

Aside from unplugging devices when you suspect a power surge, there are two ways you can take additional precautions to protect electronics in your home.

Point-of-use surge protection devices, like power strips, can protect electronics during most surges. But remember, not all power strips include surge protection, so read the packaging label carefully before you buy, and don’t overload the power strip with too many devices. You can also install specialized electrical outlets that offer additional surge protection. Talk to a trusted electrician to learn more.

Another option is a whole-home surge protector, which can help protect your home from larger, more powerful surges.

In most cases, whole-home suppressors are connected to your home’s service panel and include features like thermal fuses and notification capabilities that indicate when a device has been impacted by a surge. Whole-home surge

protection prices vary based on the size of the home and suppressor. Whole-home suppressors should always be connected by a licensed electrician, so consider the cost of installation as well.

Occasional power surges are inevitable, but by unplugging devices when you think a surge may occur and using additional levels of protection like power strips or wholehome suppressors, you can better safeguard your sensitive electronics and devices.

TIPS TO AVOID

ENERGY SCAMS Scammers and cybercriminals look for weak points to exploit before software companies can fix them. Update software programs on your computer, tablet, and mobile phone as soon as possible when a newer version becomes available.

Software updates often contain critical patches and protections against security threats. Turn on automatic updates to automatically update your security software, internet browser, operating system, and mobile apps.

Source: consumer.ftc.org

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Spring into Savings with an AC Tune-Up Fewer Unexpected and Costly Breakdowns

A regular air conditioning tune-up is one of the best ways to prepare your home for warmer weather. Even when your system appears to be running normally, routine maintenance can improve performance, efficiency, and reliability before summer demand puts extra strain on your equipment.

During a tune-up, a trained technician can identify minor issues before they turn into major, costly repairs. Catching problems early can help avoid inconvenient system failures when you need cooling the most.

Regular tune-ups can extend the life of your air conditioning system. Just like a car that receives routine maintenance, an A/C system that’s properly cared for tends to last longer and perform more reliably. This can delay the need for a costly replacement and help you get the most value from your equipment.

Improve Efficiency Over time, normal wear and tear can reduce your system’s performance, even if everything seems to be working fine.

A professional tune-up ensures your A/C is operating efficiently before the hottest months of the year. Scheduling an air conditioning tune-up is one of the simplest ways to protect your comfort and your investment.

Lower Energy Costs When components are clean, properly adjusted, and running smoothly, your system doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. This improved efficiency can reduce energy use, which may lead to lower electric bills.

To make routine maintenance even more worthwhile, qualifying A/C tune-ups are eligible for a rebate credited directly to your electric bill. This incentive helps offset the cost of maintenance while encouraging energy-efficient operation.

Visit cherrylandelectric.coop/rebates/ to learn more about all the rebates and energy-savings incentives Cherryland Electric Cooperative is offering.

COMFORT THAT PAYS YOU BACK. Get your system ready for warmer days and earn a rebate on your energy bill!

Benefits of regular maintenance include: • • •

Improved system efficiency Reduced energy use Fewer unexpected and costly breakdowns

Complete a qualifying A/C tune-up this spring and receive a rebate credited directly to your Cherryland Electric Cooperative bill.

Visit cherrylandelectric.coop/rebates/ for more information on rebates and to view all available energy-saving incentives!

Spring into Savings With an A/C Tune-Up

Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit cherrylandelectric.coop/rebates/

Big News from the Cherryland Team We’re excited to share some great news with our members: Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson has been recognized nationally as the 2026 J.C. Brown CEO Communication Leadership Award recipient.

The award, presented by the Council of Rural Electric Communicators and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, honors one electric cooperative CEO each year who demonstrates a strong commitment to clear, authentic communication. Even more exciting, Rachel is the first woman to ever receive this honor.

Since becoming CEO in 2023, Rachel has focused on keeping members informed, staying connected, and communicating in clear, approachable ways. From regular updates to ongoing engagement with our communities, her leadership reflects the cooperative values Cherryland was built on.

thoughtful decision-making, and service to our memberowners as the energy landscape continues to change.

This recognition reflects Rachel’s leadership and Cherryland’s ongoing commitment to transparency,

We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with our members and grateful for the trust you place in Cherryland every day.

Cherryland Cares Corner

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Michigan Middle school can be a time of tremendous change— socially, emotionally, and academically. Recognizing how important it is for youth to feel supported during these years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan (Bigs) launched its Group Mentoring initiative at East Middle School last semester, made possible through the generous support of Cherryland Cares.

The program provides a safe, welcoming space where students can talk openly about the issues that matter most to them—family dynamics, respect, communication, and how to treat one another with kindness. Guided by caring mentors, participants learn how to express themselves, listen to others, and navigate relationships in healthy, positive ways. These conversations often lead to meaningful breakthroughs, helping students better understand themselves and those around them.

The impact has been immediate and inspiring. Every student currently participating has expressed interest in being matched with a one-to-one mentor through Bigs’ traditional program because they love the experience so much. Many have shared that they wish the group could meet every day. This enthusiasm reflects the deep sense of belonging and trust the program fosters—something that can be lifechanging for middle schoolers navigating a complex world.

Cherryland Cares’ support has made it possible for Bigs to fill a critical gap in youth development. In a region where access to mental health and social-emotional learning resources is limited, Group Mentoring provides consistent guidance, connection, and encouragement. Students are learning to manage emotions, build empathy, and develop the confidence to make positive choices—skills that will serve them for life.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can support Cherryland Cares head to cherrylandelectric.coop/ cherryland-cares

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

GLOBAL COMFORT FOODS Taste the world, from home.

WINNING RECIPE!

HALUSKI

Adrienne Kral, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 1 (16-ounce) bag wide egg noodles 6 tablespoons butter, divided 1 pound kielbasa, cut into thin, round slices 1 large yellow onion, finely sliced or chopped 1 medium head green cabbage, 2–3 pounds, cored and roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup cottage cheese, optional ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste) Cook egg noodles to al dente, according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water and set aside. To a large skillet or Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat, add 2 tablespoons butter and melt. Add kielbasa and cook until browned, 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove slices with a slotted spoon and set aside (keeping any remaining liquid in the pan).

Reduce heat to medium, and add 2 more tablespoons of butter and the onions. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Add cabbage and garlic. Cook 8-10 minutes until cabbage reaches desired tenderness, stirring occasionally. Add the cooked noodles, kielbasa, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and reserved pasta water. Mix well and cook until heated through. Stir in cottage cheese, if using. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately.

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

LINSENEINTOPF (ONE-POT GERMAN LENTIL STEW)

Grace Nelson, Cherryland Electric Cooperative 2 tablespoons canola oil 1 large onion (or 2 small), peeled and chopped into large cubes 1 medium/large potato, peeled and cut into large cubes 3 carrots, peeled and cut into round chunks 2 stalks celery, finely diced 2 cups water 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed 3 cups vegetable or beef broth 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine or balsamic) 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried) 2–3 German-style sausages (bratwurst, etc.), cut into chunks

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• salt and pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried) • Tabasco sauce (red), a few drops In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions in canola oil for a few minutes until soft.

Add the potato, carrots, and celery and continue to sauté, adding more canola oil if necessary.

Add the water and lentils and bring to a light boil. Simmer until the lentils start to absorb the water. Add the vegetable broth, vinegar, and thyme. Bring back to heat, then allow to simmer until the lentils are soft to taste, about 35 to 45 minutes (green lentils will take longer to cook).

Add the sausage and bring to heat. Simmer an additional 4–5 minutes, or until the sausage is thoroughly cooked. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve with tabasco sauce and crusty bread.

Irish mixed spice (makes more than needed): 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground allspice ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon mace (optional, for extra warmth)

IRISH BREAD PUDDING WITH WHISKEY SAUCE Julie Kenney, Great Lakes Energy

1 cup raisins 1 cup dried cranberries ½ cup Irish Mist whiskey (or whiskey of your choice) ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened (for brushing/greasing) 8 slices fresh bread (not day-old) 2 cups heavy whipping cream 6 large eggs ½ cup white sugar ½ cup packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon Irish mixed spice (see right) 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Whiskey sauce: • reserved whiskey from soaking fruit 1 cup sugar ¾ cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ½ teaspoon Irish Mixed Spice

Combine the cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, ginger, and mace (if desired) to make the Irish mixed spice mix; set aside. Soak the raisins and cranberries in the whiskey for several hours or overnight, then drain the fruit and reserve the soaking liquid for the sauce.

Preheat the oven to 400°F and butter a 7x11-inch baking dish, then butter both sides of the bread slices and cut them diagonally. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, Irish mixed spice, and vanilla extract. Layer the bread and soaked fruit in the prepared dish, pour the cream mixture over the top, and press gently so all the bread is well soaked. Place the filled dish into a larger

9×13–inch pan, carefully add hot water to the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the smaller dish, and bake for 40–50 minutes until set and lightly golden. While the pudding bakes, combine the reserved whiskey, sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and Irish mixed spice in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand. Once the pudding is done baking, slowly pour the warm whiskey sauce over the hot pudding a little at a time, pressing gently to help it absorb the sauce.

Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

GOLDEN COCONUT CURRY COMFORT CHICKEN Katie Schneider, Midwest Energy

Rice: 2 cups jasmine rice 2½ cups water ¼ teaspoon salt Curry: 2 tablespoons coconut oil 1 onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons curry powder 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1½ pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size chunks 1 (13 ½-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk 1 cup chicken broth 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 cup sliced carrots 1 cup fresh baby spinach • juice of ½ lime • salt, to taste • black pepper, to taste • chopped cilantro for garnishing, optional Rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear, then combine it with the water and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and set aside. Meanwhile, heat the

RECIPE CONTEST

coconut oil in a large skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened, stirring occasionally. Then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, coriander, and ginger and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat them in the spices, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken begins to turn opaque. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and soy sauce, stirring to combine, then add the bell pepper and carrots. Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the baby spinach just until wilted, remove from heat, add the lime juice, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Spoon the curry over the cooked jasmine rice and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking For A Cause Order your copy and share the gift of community and care.

Each purchase supports two deserving Michigan charities— Feeding America Local Food Banks and Cooperative Family Fund.

Just scan the QR code or go to amazon.com and search “Michigan Country Lines Cookbook.”

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Grilled to Perfection, due April 1; Chill Out! No-Cook Recipes, 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

Flying Forward: Grounded in What Matters How drones are helping us care for our system and the people it serves.

SAFETY:

RELIABILITY:

Using drones helps keep our line crews safer by reducing the need to climb poles or travel long distances for routine inspections. When crews do arrive on-site, drone imagery gives them a clearer picture of what to expect—helping them plan the work before they ever leave the ground. Safety matters for our members, too.

Every flight follows strict FAA regulations and Cherryland’s own data privacy policies.

More frequent inspections mean we have a better understanding of what’s happening across our system—and can address potential issues sooner. That proactive approach helps reduce outages before they happen. After severe storms, drones allow us to locate damage faster and give line crews the information they need to make repairs efficiently, helping restore power as quickly as possible.

A safer way to inspect the systembefore crews ever leave the ground.

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A clearer view of our system helps prevent outages and restore power faster.

CHERRYLAND’S DRONE PROGRAM

BY THE NUMBERS Cycle reduction:

14 9 years

Year Cherryland started using drones:

2019

(target 7-8)

Annual savings:

Images per pole:

$45,000

40

annually

Community partners: Employees Certified:

4

3

NMC (training, flying), PLP (data processing), C.C. Power (maintenance)

AFFORDABILITY:

COMMUNITY:

By using drones for inspections, we’re able to redirect staff time from routine checks to higher-value maintenance and system improvements. That efficiency helps us be good stewards of cooperative resources while continuing to invest in a strong, reliable system for our members.

Our partnership with Northwestern Michigan College’s drone program is a great example of cooperative values in action. Students gain hands-on, real-world experience, and Cherryland benefits from fresh perspectives and added expertise—working together to better serve our members and the community we share.

Smarter inspections free up time and resources for the work that matters most.

Partnering locally to build skills, share knowledge, and serve our members better.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

When the Weather Gets It Just Right Maple syrup depends on Michigan weather doing what it does best— changing its mind.

Alternating warm days and freezing nights create pressure inside the tree, encouraging sap to flow. Each freezethaw cycle can trigger a steady drip for eight to 15 hours, continuing as long as the temperature pattern lasts.

Tapping into the Sweet Tradition of

Michigan’s Maple Syrup Season

By Cassondra Scott

As spring begins to emerge in Michigan, a sweet seasonal tradition takes center stage—maple syrup production. It’s a time when communities, farmers, and producers gather to tap maple trees, harvesting nature’s satisfying reward. Whether it’s visiting a sugar shack, attending a festival, or enjoying a stack of pancakes drizzled with fresh maple syrup, Michiganders celebrate the simple pleasures of maple syrup season, one drop at a time.

Maple syrup production is the oldest agricultural enterprise in the United States, a process dating back to the earliest Native Americans. It’s not only the first farm crop of the year but an integral part of the state’s agricultural heritage. Maple sugaring contributes millions of dollars to the state’s economy, from agriculture to tourism.

Michigan produces an average of 136,000 gallons of syrup per year, maintaining its status as fifth in the nation for maple syrup production.

Collecting Liquid Gold The state’s forests are rich with sugar maple trees, providing the perfect

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environment for this age-old practice.

As spring days grow longer, more sunshine brings warmer temperatures, and sugar maple trees begin to release their sap. With a natural sugar content of about 2%, sugar maples are the star of Michigan’s syrup season.

Sugaring season is short but sweet, typically lasting just four to six weeks.

In southern Michigan, producers may begin tapping trees as early as February, while the season can stretch well into April in the Upper Peninsula.

Timing matters, and no two seasons are exactly alike.

But the window is narrow. Once buds begin to form on the trees, sap production stops and the flavor changes, signaling the end of the season. For producers, it becomes a race against the calendar and the forecast.

From Sap to Syrup Producing maple syrup blends generations-old tradition with modern efficiency. Michigan is home to an estimated 500 commercial producers, along with roughly 2,000 hobbyists and backyard sugar makers who tap trees for personal use.

The process begins with a small hole drilled into a sugar maple and a tap, also called a spile, inserted into the trunk. Clear, watery sap is collected in buckets or tubing systems and transported to a sugarhouse for processing. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup. In an average season, each tap yields roughly 10 gallons of sap, enough for a single quart of syrup.

That sap, which is about 98% water, becomes syrup when it is boileddown at 219 degrees Fahrenheit.

This evaporation removes excess water, leaving behind the thick, golden sweetness Michigan families know well.

Many modern sugarhouses use advanced tools such as reverse osmosis machines and high-

efficiency evaporators to speed up the process. Others stick with wood-fired boilers and traditional techniques, valuing the hands-on approach and the flavor it produces.

Celebrating the Season As sap begins to flow and syrup makers fire up their boilers, communities across Michigan celebrate a tradition that blends agriculture, history, and a bit of springtime magic. Maple syrup festivals invite visitors to experience the sights, smells, and tastes of the season firsthand.

Mary Ann Hayes, co-president of the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival—the longest running maple syrup festival in the state—has been involved in the planning of their annual event for 20 years. Her husband Steve, president of the organization, has been involved even longer since a random day when he offered help to some men building a platform for the upcoming festival in the 1990s. She’s watched the event grow from maple syrup stands, a pageant, and a flea market to a juried arts and crafts show, vendor market, food trucks, and fair rides.

“We love that we’ve been able to grow the festival, but also keep it free for our community,” said Mary Ann. “We have this great opportunity to celebrate maple syrup and all the amazing people who make the industry so great.”

A Sweet Michigan Tradition From forest to festival, maple syrup season is a reminder that some of Michigan’s best traditions arrive quietly, one drip at a time. Whether touring a sugarhouse, attending a local festival, or pouring syrup over a stack of pancakes at home, each golden drop reflects patience, craftsmanship, and the sense of community that defines spring in Michigan.

Plan Your Own Adventure Multiday festivals draw thousands each year with pancake breakfasts, parades, craft shows, and live entertainment, including: • Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival (since 1940), April 24–26 syrupfest.org • Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival, April 23–26 shepherdmaplesyrupfest.org Sixteen sugarhouses across the state will also open their doors during Michigan Maple Syrup Weekends, giving visitors the chance to tour sugar bushes, see tapping demonstrations, learn how sap becomes syrup, and sample pure Michigan maple products.

Michigan Maple Syrup Weekends 2026 michiganmaple.org

• Southern Lower Michigan, March 21–22 • Northern Lower Michigan, March 28–29 • Upper Michigan, April 11–12 Meet the sugar makers who work their maple magic, discover new recipes, and even learn how to try sugaring yourself.

Cassondra Scott is a content creator, writer, and social media influencer at Cassondra Wanders—sharing small businesses and sights to see all over the state of Michigan.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Your Board In Action January 2026 • The communications team presented the updated new member email campaign.

• The chief executive officer presented the new board dashboard with a focus on KPIs from six areas: -

Reliability Cost control and operational efficiency Member experience and satisfaction Financial stewardship Safety and security Our team and workforce development

• The board of directors heard an update on facilities planning, including modifications to the site plan and plans to close on the land in the coming months.

• The board of directors received an update that Cloverland Electric Cooperative has joined the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association.

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 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.

16 MARCH 2026

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

SUNRISE TO SUNSET MOST VOTES

1. MOST VOTES Ashlin Caelwaerts— “Lake Michigan beach sunset, Sleeping Bear Dunes.”

2. Sharon Richardson—“One of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen. Seen while crossing the Mackinac Bridge to LP.” 3. Lee Donaldson—“Golden sunset on Silver Lake.”

4. Kathy Priest—“Warm April sunrise.”

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5. Robert Smith—“Sunrise over Boardman (Brown Bridge Quiet Area).”

6. Ann Devogel—“November evening stroll.”

Enter to win up to $200 off your energy bill!

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Submit Your “Birds” Photos By March 25 for the May issue!

Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote!

The photo receiving the most votes in our Facebook contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites.

Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit! To enter the contest, visit cherrylandelectric.coop/ photo-contest or visit facebook. com/cherrylandelectriccoop for a link to the current photo contest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2026, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your December 2026 bill.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Sounds of the Past

By Martin Stec, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative member

The following story is based on the memories of Marty Stec of Parrot’s Point and was composed by his daughter, Nicole Heggelund.

These days, the sound of Mullet Lake on a summer afternoon is the growl of an outboard motor or the drone of a jet ski. But it was not always this way. The sound I remember from my childhood on Mullet Lake is the sleepy, rhythmic creak and splash of wooden oars at sunset.

It was the summer of 1947, and I was 6 years old. The creaking oars belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Schrek of Parrot’s Point, a kind elderly couple who hosted me for a season on the east side of Mullet Lake. In the evenings, Mr. Schrek would ready his rowboat, and Mrs. Schrek, her oversized sun bonnet a dash of color against the sky, would climb in, ready for the sunset fishing trip.

As the dusk deepened, home they would return, Mrs. Schrek’s bonnet hid her face, and he patiently pulled the oars. Waiting by the shore, the strained croak of oar against oarlock was the only sound other than the gentle lapping of waves at the shore.

As night fell, I would lie in bed and listen to the low rumble of Mr. Schrek’s rocking chair against the old floorboards. Next to him was the brass spittoon, and occasionally a ping sounded from within, courtesy of Mr. Schrek’s chewing tobacco. The kerosene lamp flickered, and to these sights and sounds, I drifted to sleep.

Morning would arrive, and the lake glimmered in buttery August light.

The sound of a stainless steel can opener popping the seal on a can of sweet PET milk signaled that breakfast had arrived. In this way, dreamy summer days passed until the arrival of fall.

School days at the one-room Koehler Township schoolhouse on Hackleberg Road had a unique soundtrack.

I remember working on arithmetic at my desk while listening to the iron clang and squeal of the water pump.

Under the watchful eye of our teacher, Mrs. Hackleberg, my classmates and I would take turns filling the class water pail and hauling it to the tank that supplied our faucet.

Where In Michigan Is This?

Oct. 31 had a sound all its own. On that magical night, when the wind smacked gray waves to the shore, and the leaves rustled, I would rub rosin on a string, preparing to surprise our neighbors, who would gamely pull their shades and wait for their prank.

Outside their window, I ran my fingers along the rosined string, creating an unearthly howl. From inside, the mock terrified shout of “Halloweeners!” could be heard. Moments later, they opened the door to distribute treats to the “monster” waiting outside.

More than 70 years have passed since those days, and now, along with the sound of motorboats and the pop of fireworks, I hear my grandchildren splashing and playing in Mullet Lake.

I appreciate these sounds, but some evenings I wish I could, once again, fall asleep to the sounds of an earlier time and hear that old rowboat come home once again.

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

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

18 MARCH 2026

About the Author: Martin is a former Wayne County Deputy Sheriff, retired after 33 years of service. He enjoys fishing and swimming on Mullet Lake. His family has been a customer of PIE&G since electricity came to Parrot’s Point on Mullet Lake.

MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Identify the correct location of the photo above by March 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

JANUARY 2026 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Crystal Fox, a Thumb Electric Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the bear statue outside of Wood Winds Restaurant in Onaway, Michigan.

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Serve on herryland’s C Cherryland’s Board!

Want to run for a seat on the Cherryland Board of Directors?

The nominating period for board candidates begins March 1 and ends at 4 p.m. on March 31.

Visit cherrylandelectric.coop to learn more!