May 2024 HWTC

May 2024

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative

A DREAM TAKES ROOT THE TALE OF BENNY THE BEARD FISHER

Honoring A People Fund Legend

May Is Electrical Safety Month

The Clean Energy Balancing Act

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Contents countrylines.com

/michigancountrylines

May 2024 Vol. 44, No. 5 /michigancountrylines

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

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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.

Michigan Country Lines, Your Communications Partner For more than 40 years, our co-op members have received Michigan Country Lines because it is the most effective and economical way to share information. Michigan Country Lines keeps members up-to-date about everything going on within their electric co-op. Issues contain news about co-op services, director elections, member meetings, and management decisions that members need to know about as owners of the co-op. The magazine also includes legal notices that would otherwise have to be placed in local media at a substantial cost. Sending Michigan Country Lines helps the co-op fulfill one of its essential principles—to educate and communicate openly with its members. The board of directors authorizes the co-op to subscribe to Michigan Country Lines on behalf of each member at an average cost of $4.15 per year, paid as part of members’ electric bills. The current magazine cost is 52 cents per copy. Michigan Country Lines is published, at cost, by the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association in Lansing. As always, we welcome your comments at editor@meca.coop.

10 14 6 EMBARK ON AN ADVENTURE

THROUGH TIME AND SPACE Follow Michigan influencer Cassondra Wanders as she takes us through the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience in Portage, Michigan.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Quiches & Savory Tarts: Light and fluffy recipes perfect for brunch and beyond.

14 A DREAM TAKES ROOT

Northland Outfitters in Germfask, Michigan, is not just a place for nature lovers, but a home for a giant wooden troll—named Benny.

18 GUEST COLUMN Worms of Misfortune: Reminisce with cooperative member Margaret Elwood about digging up worms during the Great Depression and the lesson she learned.

MI Co-op Community

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

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Casseroles, due June 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!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Electrical Safety Starts With Each And Every One Of Us

homeworks.org /homeworks.org tricoenergy@homeworks.org Portland office/Mail payments to: 7973 E. Grand River Ave. Portland, MI 48875 Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday

Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310 Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.

Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232 Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875

Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls) Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740

HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413 BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org District 2 — Jim Stebbins 7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 616-693-2449 • jstebbins@homeworks.org District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org District 6 — Ed Oplinger, Secretary-Treasurer 10890 W. Weidman Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-506-1639 • eoplinger@homeworks.org District 7 — Shirley Sprague 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC cmarkwart@homeworks.org

By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO

t HomeWorks, we recognize Electrical Safety Month every May, but we also know the importance of practicing safety year-round. From our Co-op crews to you—the members we serve­—we know that everyone has a part to play in prioritizing safety.

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According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, thousands of people in the U.S. are critically injured or electrocuted as a result of electrical fires and accidents in their own homes. Most of these accidents are preventable. Electricity is a necessity, and it powers our daily lives. But we know first-hand how dangerous electricity can be because we work with it 365 days a year.

To me, safety is much more than a catchphrase. I’ve worked at HomeWorks for 23 years, and one of my former roles at the Co-op was safety coordinator. Now, as president/CEO, it’s still my responsibility to keep our Co-op employees safe and to help keep you and all members of our community safe around the electricity and other products we provide. That’s why you’ll see HomeWorks hosting safety presentations at community events and in schools throughout the year—to demonstrate the dangers of electricity.

Electricity is so embedded into our lives today that we don’t even think about it most of the time. That’s why we must work hard to keep electrical safety top of mind. In recognition of Electrical Safety Month, I’d like to pass along a few simple but important electrical safety tips for your home.

• Frayed wires pose a serious safety hazard. Power cords can become damaged or frayed from age, heavy use, or excessive current flow through the wiring.

If cords become frayed or cut, replace them because they could cause a shock when handled.

• Avoid overloading circuits. Circuits can only cope with a limited amount of electricity. Overload happens when you draw more electricity than a circuit can safely handle—by having too many devices running on one circuit.

• Label circuit breakers to understand the circuits in your home. Contact a qualified electrician if your home is more than 40 years old and you need to install multiple large appliances that consume large amounts of electricity.

• Use extension cords properly. Never plug an extension cord into another extension cord, and don’t exceed the wattage of the cord. Extension cords should not be used as permanent solutions. If you need additional outlets, contact a licensed electrician for help.

I encourage you to talk with your kids about playing it safe around electricity, and use the checklist on the following page to help them check your home for potential electrical hazards.

Our mission is to provide you with reliable services that enhance your quality of life. Our top priority, though, is to keep our community safe around the products we provide. For additional electrical safety tips or if you would like to discuss the possibility of HomeWorks providing a safety demonstration at your school or upcoming community event, visit HomeWorks.org/safety.

4 MAY 2024

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

EMBARK ON AN ADVENTURE

THROUGH TIME & SPACE N

estled in the charming city of Portage, Michigan, the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Experience (Air Zoo) is a world-class museum and science education center. A testament to the history of aviation and aerospace exploration, the Air Zoo invites visitors to discover the wonders of flight.

Igniting imaginations through engaging and immersive exhibits, from hot air balloons to vintage aircraft and cutting-edge spacecraft, the museum’s collection spans the entire spectrum of aviation history. Whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, the Air Zoo offers something for everyone.

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MAY 2024

The Legacy of the Air Zoo The Air Zoo has evolved from a modest aircraft collection into a world-class aerospace museum. Suzanne and Pete Parish’s passion for preserving the legacy of aviation history has cemented the Air Zoo as a premier destination in the heart of southwest Michigan.

The Parishes were both accomplished pilots—Suzanne having served with the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) and Pete being a retired World War II Marine Air Corps Aviator.

The two of them, who had amassed a collection of planes, were particularly enthusiastic about World War II aircraft. A friend of theirs offered to give them his Grumman Bearcat, a fighter aircraft from the war, if they agreed to open a museum. Soon

after, The Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum opened to the public in November 1979.

In addition to the Bearcat, the founding collection included a Wildcat, Hellcat, and Flying Tiger.

With all the wild animal aircraft, it was quite fitting how the name Air Zoo quickly caught on.

Originally a nine-plane hangar exhibit, the Air Zoo now features over 100 rare aircraft and spacecraft. Visitors can marvel at iconic planes like an SR-71 Blackbird and an F-14 Tomcat. Boasting over 100,000 square feet of museum space, the Air Zoo spans across two facilities: the Flight Discovery Center and the Flight Innovation Center. The Discovery Center features real-time, flight-based activities, exhibitions, and

the Restoration Center, where a team of experts restores historical artifacts in public view. Current conservation efforts include two WWII aircraft recovered from the bottom of Lake Michigan.

Plan Your Visit The Air Zoo promises an unforgettable experience all year-round. Admission prices vary depending on age and membership status, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and groups. Museum galleries are wagon, stroller, and wheelchair friendly. Ample free and accessible parking is available for all visitors. Upon check-in, guests may request wheelchairs and wagons to use, free of charge.

In addition to its impressive aircraft collection, the Air Zoo has acquired more than 100,000 rare artifacts and archives. By meticulously restoring vintage aircraft and preserving these artifacts, the museum honors the achievements of pioneering aviators and offers invaluable insights into the evolution of aviation.

Fuel up during your visit at Kitty Hawk Cafe, serving grab-n-go items, snacks, sandwiches, and other made-to-order options. Take home some extra cargo and stop by the Fly Buy Gift Shop for gifts and souvenirs. An online store is also available.

Hands-On Exhibits The Air Zoo’s Innovation Center is where you’ll find immersive exhibits that offer hands-on experiences unlike any other. From science experimentation stations to full-motion flight simulations and open cockpits, exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage imagination.

Through the “open cockpit” experience, you’ll get a feel for what it was like to fly famous historical aircraft. Climb behind the stick for a real “pilot’s eye” view from the seat of an aircraft.

Step into the world of virtual reality with the Air Zoo’s flight simulators.

“Fly” in a safe, controlled environment and choose from realistic simulations of take-off, landing, and aerial maneuvers in various aircraft. Whether you’re battling against giant robots, embarking on a spacewalk mission, or engaging in an aerial dogfight over the Pacific Ocean, the Air Zoo’s virtual adventures offer a thrilling way to experience aviation and space exploration.

A variety of indoor amusement parkstyle rides are included with museum admission. Get a spectacular aerial view of the museum aboard the 26-foot Century of Flight Ferris Wheel.

Fly through the sky on the Montgolfier Balloon Race ride, steer a Flying Circus Biplane, and feel the weightlessness of parachuting on the Paratrooper Jump.

At Toddler Tarmac, the Air Zoo’s indoor children’s play area, imaginations soar with various hands-on activities tailored to engage young visitors. Little aviators are sure to have a blast at this dynamic aerospace museum. The Air Zoo has something interactive for everyone to enjoy.

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.

/cassondrawanders /cassondra.wanders @cassondrawanders @cassondrawanders

Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventure to the Air Zoo.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Swap Your Lawn Equipment This Spring

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witching out gas-powered lawn and landscaping equipment for electric versions is a simple way to cut carbon emissions in your outdoor space this spring and summer. Using a gas-powered lawn mower can produce significant amounts of emissions—for example, according to the EPA, garden equipment engines produce up to 5% of the nation’s air pollution.

Since electric-powered machines don’t utilize a combustion engine, there are zero emissions released into the air during mowing. The same is true for other electric landscaping equipment, such as trimmers, chainsaws, and leaf blowers.

Making the transition to electric lawn equipment means not having to worry about fuel—running out of it or handling it.

The EPA estimates that over 17 million gallons of gasoline are spilled as garden equipment is refueled each year, causing air and water pollution. When you go electric, you can simply plug in and power your equipment right at home. In addition, the lack of gas and oil and fewer moving parts mean less maintenance for electric machinery.

Another added bonus—less noise pollution! Electric lawn equipment is significantly quieter than traditional gas-

powered machinery, so you (and your neighbors) can enjoy more of the natural sounds of the season.

Rebates Up to $300 for Electric Lawn Equipment Cash rebates on electric lawn mowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers, and chainsaws (and snow blowers!) are available from the HomeWorks Energy Optimization program.

For full details and information on how to apply, visit homeworks.org/eo or call 877-296-4319.

ELECTRIFY YOUR

LAWN CARE UP TO $300 REBATE ON QUALIFYING EQUIPMENT

V I S I T homeworks.org/eo C A L L 877.296.4319 HomeWorks Energy Optimization programs and rebates are applicable to HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative electric service locations only. Rebates apply to qualified items purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2024 and Dec. 31, 2024. Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit homeworks.org/eo.

SNAP SHOT

Flowers & Gardens

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8 Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Monuments, Statues & Memorials” Photos By May 20!

Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Our May theme is Monuments, Statues & Memorials. Photos can be submitted through May 20 to be featured in our July/Aug. issue.

To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2024 HomeWorks bill!

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10 MOST VOTES

1. Gifts of springtime. Lyndsey Dickinson, Remus 2. Tulip Time windmill-shaped garden at Centennial Park, Holland, 2023. Casie Bayless, Portland 3. My sunflower garden. Teresa Larsen, Lakeview 4. Beautiful. Steve Loomis, Remus 5. Unknown flower, but colors so vibrant! Jan Malhoit, Rodney 6. Nature at work! Margery Burkhart, Mt. Pleasant 7. Zinnias at our lake. Donna Rohrs, Hersey 8. Pretty poppy. Debra Cook, Mt. Pleasant 9. Flower child. Nan Riley, Lakeview 10. Bee rosey! Shanda Reichert, Blanchard

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Recipes

QUICHES & SAVORY TARTS

Light and fluffy recipes perfect for brunch and beyond.

WINNING RECIPE! GOAT CHEESE PESTO TARTLETS

Sharon Libich, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 6–8 ounces goat cheese, softened 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 garlic clove, minced 2–3 boxes (15-count each) precooked phyllo dough mini shells (Athens brand) ½ cup prepared pesto ¼ cup diced sun-dried tomatoes and/or red bell pepper, for topping ½ cup coarsely chopped almonds

Recipe Contest Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Casseroles, due June 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.

10 MAY 2024

In a medium microwavable bowl, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic.

Stir until combined. If needed, soften in the microwave to achieve spreading consistency.

Set aside. Fill each mini shell with 1 heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture (halfway), top with a dollop of pesto, a little sun-dried tomato/ red bell pepper, and a sprinkle of almonds. Serve the (cold) tartlets immediately, as phyllo cups will soften as they sit. Use any remaining cheese mixture (if any) as a dip with crackers or even as a sandwich spread.

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

EGG-CELLENT EGG BITES

Katie Schneider, Midwest Energy & Communications 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 8 large eggs, whisked 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (full fat has less water) 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons cornstarch ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper ½ teaspoon onion powder ½ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, optional ¼ teaspoon hot sauce, optional 4 strips bacon (or turkey bacon), cooked and chopped Preheat oven to 325 F. Grease a silicone muffin pan with olive oil. Create a water bath by filling a 9x13-inch pan halfway with warm water. Set the muffin pan in the pan of water. To a blender, add the eggs, cottage cheese, cheeses,

cornstarch, all seasonings, and hot sauce. Blend on high until smooth, about 30 seconds. Divide the bacon into the cups, then fill to the top with the egg mixture. Carefully place the prepared pans onto the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes (or longer, depending on the size of your muffin tins) and cook until the eggs are just set. The egg bites will pull slightly away from the edges when they are done. Carefully remove pans from the oven; let set for 10 minutes before using a spoon to gently loosen and remove the bites from the pan. Serve immediately or make ahead of time for busy mornings. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds. You can also try out different cheese, vegetable, and seasoning combinations.

QUICKY QUICHE

Nancy Hascall, Cherryland Electric Cooperative 1 unbaked pie crust (or 1.5 cups cooked rice) 1¾ cups half-and-half 1 cup shredded cheese of choice 1 heaping tablespoon jalapeño cream cheese • pinch of salt • dash of cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon paprika 3 eggs 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced • Additional topping options: mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, broccoli, salmon, etc.

Preheat oven to 325 F. Have ready an unbaked 8-inch deep pie crust (alternatively, press rice into pie tin to form a crust.) Heat the half-and-half just until it starts to boil. Reduce heat and add shredded cheese of choice. Add the jalapeño cream cheese. Stir until melted.

Add salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.

Remove from heat and vigorously stir in the 3 eggs, one at a time. Pour into crust. Top the quiche with the thinly sliced bell peppers, red onions, and optional toppings, if using. Bake until firm, about 45 minutes.

SPINACH MUSHROOM QUICHE Kerri Hanson, Great Lakes Energy

2 tablespoons salted butter ¹⁄ ³ cup finely diced onion 12 ounces white or baby bella mushrooms, trimmed and sliced 2 cups baby spinach 6 large eggs 1 cup half-and-half 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 12 ounces grated Swiss cheese 1 unbaked pie crust Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large sauté pan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Add the onion and sauté until tender, about 5–6 minutes. Add the

mushrooms and sauté until the liquid has evaporated, about 5–6 minutes. Add the spinach and sauté until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the onion/ mushroom/spinach mixture and add the Swiss cheese. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell. Bake until the quiche is lightly golden and set in the center when the pan is gently wiggled, about 45-50 minutes. Cover the crust with foil if it is browning too quickly. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes (important)! Slice and serve.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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FUEL MIX REPORT

The fuel mix characteristics of HomeWorks TriCounty Electric Cooperative as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 12/31/23.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source

Your co-op’s Regional average fuel mix fuel mix

Coal

16.695%

26.446%

Oil

0.241%

0.428%

Gas

22.280%

35.916%

Hydroelectric

0.459%

0.724%

Nuclear

42.108%

26.167%

Renewable Fuels

18.217%

10.319%

Biofuel

0.384%

0.760%

Biomass

0.163%

0.364%

Solar

1.099%

1.170%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.083%

0.006%

Wind

16.284%

7.616%

Wood

0.204%

0.403%

NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas; and wind includes a long-term renewable purchase power contract in Wolverine’s mix.

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

Dick Donley Steps Down From People Fund Board he Tri-County Electric People Fund board of directors bid a fond farewell to a legend in March, when District 6 Director and Vice-Chairperson Dick Donley stepped down after 20 years of dedicated service.

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“If there was a Mt. Rushmore of HomeWorks folks, Dick Donley’s face would be on it,” says HomeWorks CEO Chris O’Neill.

“He’s a heck of a guy and a great supporter of the Cooperative.”

A HomeWorks member in Weidman for 32 years, Donley was selected to represent District 6 (Clare and Isabella counties) on the volunteer People Fund board in 2004. In his two decades on the board, he helped the program grant over $1.7 million to families and organizations in need throughout the Co-op’s service footprint. His impact was so profound that at their March board meeting, the HomeWorks TriCounty Electric board of directors unanimously passed a resolution recognizing Donley for his selfless commitment to the People Fund.

“Our volunteer People Fund board members put so much time, effort, and care into the

EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON lbs/MWh Type of emission/waste

Your co-op

Regional average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.53

0.95

Carbon Dioxide

652.5

1,092.2

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.42

0.78

High-Level Nuclear Waste

0.0097

0.0060

* Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/23.

HomeWorks purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.

12 MAY 2024

“His Impact Has Been Huge”:

grants they give and figuring out how the funds can have the most impact for the people of our local communities,” says HomeWorks Executive Assistant Michelle Huhn, who serves as the administrator of the People Fund. “Dick has always been one of the people leading that charge. His heart and compassion have shone through in everything he has done for the People Fund. He’s just a great guy.”

The People Fund is funded by HomeWorks members who opt in to voluntarily round up their electric bill to the nearest dollar for Operation Round Up each month. Every cent donated to the program is given back to meaningful causes in our local communities.

In addition to serving on the People Fund board, Donley also volunteered as a HomeWorks district officer, serving as District 6 chairperson for several years before stepping down in 2022.

“Dick’s impact not only on the People Fund but on HomeWorks as a whole and on the communities we serve has been huge,” says O’Neill.

“We’re certainly going to miss his insight, passion, and guidance on the People Fund board.”

ACCESS TO RULES AND RATES As a member-customer (member) of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative (Cooperative), the following information is available to you from the Cooperative, upon request: 1. Complete rate schedules; 2. Clear and concise explanation of all rates that the member may be eligible to receive; and 3. Assistance from the Cooperative in determining the most appropriate rate for a member when the member is eligible to receive service under more than one rate.

For more information, visit homeworks.org or call 800-562-8232.

Your Board In Action Meeting in Portland on March 25, your board of directors: • In a special open member meeting, unanimously approved the adoption of staff-recommended changes to some of the Co-op’s tariff miscellaneous special charges and construction fees, to take effect June 1, 2024.

• Approved allocation of 2023 margins to HomeWorks members based on their patronage, including $1,489,664 for Tri-County Electric Cooperative and $2,295,937 for Wolverine Power Cooperative.

• Supported management’s recommendation to delay consideration of a general capital credit retirement until the fourth quarter of 2024.

• Authorized an estate capital credit retirement of $103,437 to member estates, discounted to present value.

• Approved a $10,000 portion of the 2018 unclaimed capital credits funds to be donated to three charitable organizations in the Co-op’s service area ($3,500 to Barryton Area Mobile Food Pantry; $3,500 to Mecosta Area Senior Center; and $3,000 to the Chippewa Hills Orchestral Society).

These funds will be matched by the CoBank Sharing Success program.

• Approved the retirement of the remaining balance of $297,364 of unclaimed capital credits from 2018 to donated capital.

• Accepted the Co-op’s annual audit report from a representative of Eide Bailly, LLP, a third-party CPA firm.

• Learned that the Co-op’s members, directors, and employees contributed $18,810 to the 2024

Michigan Electric Cooperative Political Action Committee (MECPAC) fundraising campaign.

• Approved Feb. 19, 2024, as the Record Date for determining the members entitled to receive notice of the Co-op’s 2024 district meetings and acknowledged the official Record Numbers of active members per district as of that date.

• Discussed and accepted Cooperative bylaw sections 9.19.14, as revised.

• Learned there were 62 new members in February.

• Acknowledged the February safety report, listing employee training as well as minor employee and public incidents involving electric, propane, or fiber optic.

• Acknowledged the February physical & cybersecurity report.

Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 20 and June 24 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.

People Fund Supports Several Organizations Making A Difference In Our Communities Meeting remotely on March 6, our People Fund board made five grants totaling over $8,000, including: • $3,470 to Montcalm CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), to purchase birthday gift bags and items for foster children; • $3,000 to the East Montcalm Baby Pantry, to purchase diapers and baby formula for clients;

• $1,250 to the Ionia Community Library, for the purchase of an ADA-approved water dispenser; • $500 to the Soup Project in Portland, for food and paper supplies; and • $212 to a Mecosta County family, to help cover the cost of hearing aids.

How to Apply for a Tri-County Electric People Fund Grant

The Tri-County Electric People Fund provides grants to individuals and organizations in the Co-op’s service area for food, shelter, clothing, health, and other humane needs, or for programs or services that benefit a significant segment of a community.

Write to 7973 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875, for an application form and grant guidelines, or visit the People Fund page at HomeWorks.org.

Note: Applications must be received by June 27 for the July meeting or by Aug. 1 for the August meeting.

NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF HOMEWORKS TRI-COUNTY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

MARCH 25, 2024, OPEN MEMBER MEETING RESULTS At a Special Open Member Meeting held March 25, 2024, the HomeWorks Tri-County Electric board of directors voted unanimously to adopt revised tariff miscellaneous special charges and construction fees, in accordance with P.A. 167, effective June 1, 2024.

For specific details of any HomeWorks tariffs or fees, please visit HomeWorks.org or call us at 800-562-8232.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

A DREAM TAKES ROOT THE TALE OF BENNY THE BEARD FISHER

By Emily Haines Lloyd

I

n the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, nestled along the Manistique River, lies Northland Outfitters, a campground and canoe/ kayak livery that has become more than a destination; it’s a canvas for dreams. Owned by Durea and Levi Brady, a couple who embarked on an extraordinary journey from Denver to the UP, Northland Outfitters is now not just a place for nature lovers, but a home for a giant wooden troll— named Benny.

A NATURAL TREASURE The story begins with Durea and Levi, who had a dream of owning a campground. In 2022, after two years of exploration, they stumbled upon Northland Outfitters, an enchanting spot that felt less like a campground

14 MAY 2024

and more like a natural haven. The Bradys envisioned a place where families could connect with nature, and they found it in the woods of Germfask, Michigan.

IT TURNS OUT THERE ARE TROLLS NORTH OF THE MACKINAC BRIDGE.

the community they had fallen in love with. Enter Benny.

ALONG CAME BENNY

“We’d seen a natural art installation by a recycled material sculpture artist from Copenhagen, Denmark, Thomas Dambo, in Breckenridge, Colorado.

It was so impactful and inspiring.

We started dreaming up something like this at the campground,” said Durea. “We knew if we were going to try something like this, it needed to be a part of the natural habitat, not something artificial or out of place.”

The Bradys had been considering additional revenue streams—and then the dream of a literal revenue stream appeared. The couple wanted something memorable and distinctive that would draw individuals to their campground and

The Bradys reached out to Dambo, who was serendipitously in the States on a tour, and agreed to meet with the couple to talk about their idea. After visions were shared, the image of Benny the Beard Fisher, resting along the riverbank, started to come to life.

“We spent two years looking for the right camping grounds,” said Durea. “We’d begun to wonder if we’d ever locate ‘the one,’ but then we visited Germfask and we knew we’d found home.”

Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo breathes life into discarded wood and landfill scraps, crafting colossal sculptures of trolls.

These mystical creations are scattered across 17 countries. For more information, please visit www.thomasdambo.com

TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY The Bradys turned to their community for support, receiving generous donations of wood from lifelong UP residents and local businesses. The result was Benny, the 14-foot-high and 30-foot-wide towering figure whose tangled wooden beard runs down the riverbank, hoping to catch something—if not a fish, then some admiring looks. People traveling the river on various water vessels can catch a glorious view of Benny as they round the bend. He’s also available to visit via the campground. Benny is a welcoming figure on this perfect bit of home that the Bradys have carved out for themselves.

“We absolutely think of the campground as a home,” said Durea.

“Maybe not a conventional one, but we have the opportunity to welcome new people into our family every few days. It’s the best feeling.”

Benny is part of that canvas, drawing people closer to nature to discover what is both beautiful and magical about the wild.

BENNY AND BEYOND The family feel of Northland Outfitters has made it more than a campground; it’s a place for community. Benny’s presence has brought people together, fostering a sense of pride and joy among visitors. On a busy day last summer, they brought 300–400 guests into their family fold.

Looking ahead, Durea and Levi envision not just a campground but a community hub, complete with events in the woods featuring live music, food trucks, and art tents that will solidify Northland Outfitters as its own work of art.

MORE INFORMATION For the comfort of Troll visitors and camping guests, visitation to Benny will be moving to a timed ticket system, beginning mid May. Tickets will need to be purchased online prior to arrival.

Tickets can be purchased at northlandoutfittersup.com /northlandoutfitters /northland.outfitters/

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

15

Digging into an Outdoor Project?

2024

NO BARRIERS

Before you dig, dial 811 or visit www.call811.com to protect underground utilities. Careless digging poses a threat to people, pipelines, and underground facilities. Contact 811 first and help keep our community safe.

ADVENTURES FOR RURAL VETERANS—APPLY BY JUNE 15 IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS WILL TAKE PLACE IN JULY AND AUGUST

Michigan electric cooperatives believe there should be “No Barriers” for veterans with disabilities. That’s the name and idea behind CoBank’s No Barriers initiative.

Michigan cooperatives are looking for qualified veterans* from our local community to participate.

No Barriers is a five-day, all-expenses-paid expedition in Colorado, designed to help veterans with disabilities transform their lives through curriculum-based experiences in challenging environments (climbing, rafting, and hiking).

If you are a disabled veteran or you know of a disabled veteran in our community who would like to participate in the No Barriers program, please apply directly at nobarriers.tfaforms.net.

If you have questions about the application process or need assistance filling out an application, please contact us at: warriors@nobarriersusa.org 970-484-3633, ext. 305 Learn more about No Barrier’s mission and programs at nobarriersusa.org. *Must have VA disability rating to be eligible.

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.

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

50%

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

increase in electric demand is projected for Michigan over the next 15 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 HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative leads by example, providing members with energy that is 60% carbon free.

Nearly 2x the regional average.

60% carbon free

Co-op’s Fuel Mix

vs.

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.

35%

88%

carbon free

Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

High Risk Elevated Risk Normal Risk

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:

MPSC Fuel Mix Disclosure Data NERC Summer & Winter Reliability Assessments, 2023–2024 NERC Long-Term Reliability Assessment, 2023 ITC 2022 Summer Review MISO Futures Report, 2021 Form EIA-860, 2022 (https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia860/)

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Worms of Misfortune

By Margaret Elwood, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member

Mystery Photo

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Where In Michigan Is This?

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

I

n the summer of 1937, my older sister Barb and I found ourselves knee-deep in dirt, our fingers stained with the earth’s secrets. Our family’s home was in Hillman, Michigan, a couple blocks from the Thunder Bay River. The Great Depression had gnawed at our livelihood, leaving us with little more than stubborn resolve and empty pockets.

One of the stores in town sold bait for fishing, and so my sister and I went in and asked how much we would earn if we dug up worms.

The manager answered 10 cents for 100 worms.

With shovels and a shared desperation, we headed out near the Thunder Bay River to dig up worms. Our hands plunging into the cool earth, we pulled out the worms one by one. The worms squirmed, protesting their eviction.

March 2024 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Allan Hascall, a Cherryland Electric Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the 24-foot monument The American Horse at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids.

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

We were on a mission—to turn soil into silver.

I had the great idea to cut the worms in half to double our profit! 20 cents was a great deal of money back in that day. So, we took the 200 worms

into the store, and we were handed the 20 cents. We were so excited, we couldn’t wait to tell our mother.

Well, word had gotten back to our mom about what we did, and when we arrived home and showed our mom the 20 cents, she said “We are all going back to the store to return that man’s 20 cents.” Both my sister and I said, “But why, Mom?” She replied, “You cheated that poor man by cutting those worms in half to get more money. You should be ashamed of yourselves!”

Now, at 96 years old, I sit on my couch and look back at all the fun we had growing up in our little town of Hillman. Barb is long gone, but her laughter dances in the wind.

Remember this tale when life throws you a curveball—sometimes the early bird doesn’t get the worm!

About the Author: Margaret is retired and likes to fish, read, play Scattegories, and watch nature programs. She is an outgoing person who loves people and parties too.

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 MAY 2024

Geothermal Made Affordable

HEATING WI TH W E LL-CONNECT IS LIKE PAYING

70¢ Per Gallon of Propane

ENJOY YEAR-ROUND

COMFORT

HEAT FOR AS LOW AS

$600 ALL WINTER

COOL FOR AS LOW AS

$50 ALL SUMMER

HOW DOES THE SYSTEM WORK? Attaches to your home’s existing heating system, it does not replace it.

50° WATER

•

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

38° WATER

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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.

70° AIR 95° AIR

Hybrid Geothermal

Installs in one day, any time of year.

EXISTING FURNACE

Financing, 30% tax credit, and rebates up to $2,000 available.

E IN

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M I C HI

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HomeWorks.org homeworks.org facebook.com/homeworks.org facebook.com/homeworks.org Report Outages: 1-800-848-9333

Don’t Forget To Attend Your Virtual District Meeting 2024 Meeting Dates: District 1: Monday, May 6 District 2: Tuesday, May 7 District 3: Wednesday, May 8 District 4: Thursday, May 9 District 5: Monday, May 13 District 6: Tuesday, May 14 District 7: Wednesday, May 15 Learn more about your Co-op, plus be entered to win big prizes just for logging on! We can’t wait to “see” you there!

HomeWorks.org/districtmeetings