May/June 2024 Ontonagon

COUNTRY LINES

A DREAM TAKES ROOT

Conserving is believing.

Geothermal is leading the effort to provide a heating and cooling source that preserves Earth’s resources.

Geothermal is the greener alternative. The Department of Energy considers it a “vital, clean energy resource” that “emits little or no greenhouse gas—all while requiring a small environmental footprint to develop.” WaterFurnace geothermal units use Earth’s natural underground heat to keep your home comfortable, the sustainable way.

Geothermal is the only renewable that provides reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS

Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800)327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Berrien Springs Waterfurnace Michiana (269)473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com

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

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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.

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.

6 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!

ontonagon.coop

/OntonagonCountyREA

500 J.K. Paul Street Ontonagon, MI 49953

906-884-4151

800-562-7128

After hours: 866-639-6098

OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

William Hodges, President

Lake Linden District

906-934-3743 • district7@ontorea.com

Calvin Koski, Vice President Aura District 906-524-6988 • district4@ontorea.com

Mildred Ann Gasperich, Secretary Boston District  906-337-5079 • district6@ontorea.com

Randy Myhren, Treasurer

Green/Firesteel/Toivola District 906-884-4092 • district1@ontorea.com

Jack Lehto, Director Pelkie/Herman/Aura District 906-353-6684 • district3@ontorea.com

Vacant Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine District district2@ontorea.com

Michael Gaunt, Director

Chassell/Keweenaw Bay District 906-370-8133 • district5@ontorea.com

PERSONNEL

Dallas Aho, Administrative Assistant

Fay Hauswirth, Billing Clerk

Alex Watson, Billing Clerk (In Training)

OTHER INFORMATION

Date of Incorporation: Sept. 30, 1937 Fiscal year-end: Dec. 31 countrylines.com/coops/ontonagon

Ontonagon County REA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

I

Grid and Cooperative Interconnectivity Provides Reliability & Opportunity

By William Hodges, Board President

nterconnectivity is the process of “connecting” individual sources of generated electricity to the electrical grid where it is then transmitted, finally being shared through distribution lines to electric recipients.

Our cooperative, the Ontonagon County REA is the smallest cooperative (5,100 members) in Michigan. The nearest cooperative to our REA is Alger Delta, which is 150+ miles to the east. Yet, due to interconnectivity of the grid, we are able to receive our power by gaining access to the grid—connecting us to all of Michigan and beyond.

Due to our interconnection with the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA), as well as the National Rural Electric Association (NRECA), we have accessed a tremendous resource of talented and experienced cooperative professionals who are available to us, and thus we are in an excellent position as we move forward.

How does this access and interconnectivity apply to the current state of our REA? As you may know, Eugene Soumis, our CEO, resigned as of April 5, 2024. We extend our gratitude to Mr. Soumis for his leadership since July of 2022, which has positioned our cooperative for continued success.

During this period of transition, we want to assure you that our board of directors is actively involved in ensuring a smooth change of leadership. In early April, four members of our REA board attended a symposium presented by MECA. We are fortunate to have this interconnected organization assisting us with their vast knowledge base and expertise during our transition. Combining this with a detailed transition plan provided by Mr. Soumis and the incredible talent that our employees bring to our cooperative, we will move forward seamlessly.

Our commitment to providing affordable and reliable electricity to our members and communities remains unwavering. We will continue to uphold our standard of excellence and serve you in a like manner.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding during this time of change. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Ontonagon REA 2024

Summer Office Hours

Effective May 1 to Sept. 1, the summer office hours are Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Ontonagon County REA/Dec. 31, 2023, & Dec. 31, 2022

Financial Statement Balance Sheets

utility plant

depreciation (13,530,370) (12,398,397)

24,054,827

& OTHER ASSETS:

receivable (less accumulated provision for uncollectibles of $40,000 in 2021)

Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance

Consumer Cooperative Act Disclosure

Big

Mildred Ann Gasperich 58807 Lakeshore Drive, Calumet, MI 49913

Road, Ontonagon,

Gaunt P.O. Box 497, Chassell, MI 49916

*All terms expire in June.

members are compensated $325 per board meeting (president $350).

MEMBERS’ EQUITIES AND LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)

EQUITIES AND LIABILITIES

STATEMENT OF REVENUE AND EXPENSES

ENDING DEC. 31, 2023, & DEC. 31, 2022

OPERATING REVENUES

EMBARK ON AN ADVENTURE

THROUGH TIME & SPACE

Nestled 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

[CO-OP NAME] IS A CLEAN ENERGY LEADER

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 Michigan co-ops lead by example, providing members with energy that is 50% carbon free. vs.

50%

carbon free carbon free

Michigan Co-ops’ Fuel Mix

35% Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

SIGNALING CAUTION: EARLY PLANT CLOSURES & BLACKOUT RISKS

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 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:

Flowers & Gardens

Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

Submit A Photo & Win A Bill Credit!

Ontonagon REA members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2024 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a credit of $50 on their December 2024 energy bills!

Upcoming Topics and Deadlines:

Monuments, Statues & Memorials, due May 20 (July/Aug. issue)

Quilts, due July 20 (Sept. issue)

Wreaths, due Sept. 20 (Nov./Dec. issue)

To submit photos, and for details and instructions, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines. We look forward to seeing your best photos!

1. Walking through the daisies. Brenna Erickson

2 Picking Grandpa’s blueberries. Sara Kariniemi

3. Sweet flowers! Danielle Impola

4. Sauna flowers at the cabin. Connie Pentti

5. Bumblebee lunch. Myla Horrocks

6. Morning light in the garden. Teresa Woods

7. The beauty of bee. Kristi Kangas

8. “Budding” photographer. Ginny Johnson

9. A lone sunflower in the field. Mary Wagner

10. Beautiful flowering hostas at Gagnons on Huron Bay! Holly Gagnon

QUICHES & SAVORY TARTS

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

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.

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

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.

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.

FUEL MIX REPORT

The fuel mix characteristics of Ontonagon REA as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 12/31/23.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED

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

NOTICE OF 2024 ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS OF ONTONAGON COUNTY RURAL ELECTRIFICATION ASSOCIATION

Date of Notice: May 14, 2024

Please be advised that, pursuant to Article II, Section 3, and Article XIV of the Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association’s bylaws, the Annual Meeting of the members of the Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association is hereby called by the secretary of the association. The purpose of the Annual Meeting is to seat the new directors, pass reports covering the previous fiscal year, and transact any other business as may properly come before the meeting. The Annual Meeting of the members of the Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association shall occur at Chassell High School, 41585 U.S. Highway 41, Chassell, MI 49916, promptly at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 15, 2024.

Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association

Mildred Gasperich, secretary

NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas.

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

ACCESS TO RULES AND RATES

Please be advised that the following information is available to Ontonagon County REA members:

1. Complete rate schedules;

2. Clear and concise explanation of all rates that the member may be eligible to receive;

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;

4. Clear and concise explanation of the member’s actual energy use for each billing period during the last 12 months.

The information can be obtained by contacting Ontonagon County REA at 906-884-4151.

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON

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

Figures for Ontonagon County REA are based on those of its power supplier, Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.

OFFICE C L OSURES

MEMORIAL DAY & INDEPENDENCE DAY

Cooperative offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday and Thursday, July 4, for Independence Day.

Payments may be made at the drop box and will be posted on the next open business day.

From our family to yours, enjoy the holidays.

Two Director Seats Up For Election

The Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association is comprised of seven districts, with directors elected for three-year terms.

This year, the terms will expire for:

District 4: Aura/Skanee

District 7: Lake Linden

These two director seats are up for election this June and ballots for those elections will be mailed after May 6, 2024, the due date of the nominating petitions.

The ballots are due to our office no later than Monday, June 10, 2024, at 500 J.K. Paul St., Ontonagon, MI 49953.

Please call our office if you have any questions.

Voting Districts

Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m.

Chassell High School

41585 U.S. Hwy. 41, Chassell, MI 49916

JOIN US ON JUNE 15

The board of directors and employees of your electric co-op invite you to join them at the 2024 Annual Meeting. This is a chance to visit with your neighbors and friends from throughout our service area and participate in your co-op’s affairs. There will be drawings for cash prizes and a lunch will be served.

Ewen

Aura Aura/ Skanee Herman Pelkie Green

Toivola Firesteel Trout Creek Lake Mine Lake Linden

Chassell Keweenaw Bay

Houghton Ontonagon Copper Harbor

Bruce Crossing L’Anse

A DREAM TAKES ROOT

THE TALE OF BENNY THE BEARD FISHER

By Emily Haines Lloyd

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

In the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, nestled along the Manistique River, lies Northland Outfi tters, 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 Outfi tters 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

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.

“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.”

ALONG CAME BENNY

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 community they had fallen in love with. Enter 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 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.

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.

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

“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 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.

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

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/

AMERICA’S FAVORITE HOUSEGUEST

How a small-town girl made reality TV history

By Yvette Pecha

Big Brother” is one of the longest-running reality game shows of all time, having begun airing on CBS in 2000. Throughout the show’s tenure, there have been more than 300 “houseguests.” And while houseguests commonly compete in multiple seasons, only one of them has ever won the show twice: Nicole Franzel of Ubly, Michigan. She earned that distinction late last year with her victory on “Big Brother Reindeer Games”; her first win came in 2016. Having played for a total of four seasons of “Big Brother” and one season of “The Amazing Race,” Nicole spent “most of her 20s” appearing on television screens.

Becoming a reality show legend was not something Nicole (a Thumb Electric Cooperative member) could have envisioned when she applied to be on the show the first time in 2014. She and her mom Jeni had been superfans of “Big Brother,” which features contestants living together under 24/7 surveillance in isolation and voting someone out each week, since she was 8. But the first year Nicole was eligible to audition (the show’s age requirement is 21), she didn’t put much thought into doing so—“I thought there was no way I’d get in,” she said. She was also in the process of completing nursing school at Saginaw Valley State University. But Jeni,

who’d been encouraging her to try out, made one more push and called Nicole at school the day before the application deadline, urging her to come home and make an audition video. Nicole did, and the day after submitting it, she got a call from the show’s casting department. She went through a series of telephone and live interviews, and was ultimately chosen as one of 16 houseguests for season 16.

That first year, she came in seventh place. Nicole said that at the time, she was really glad to have had the experience, but she didn’t expect anything to come from it. She took and passed her nursing board exam and began working in a hospital rehab unit. But then, “California area codes started popping up” on her caller ID—the show’s producers liked Nicole and wanted her to come back. She returned to “Big Brother”

in 2016, and this time, as the last houseguest standing, she went home with $500,000. She got much more than clout and cash though—one of the other contestants on the show that year was Victor Arroyo. They didn’t have a “showmance,” but Victor pursued her after the season ended and they started dating a year later. Victor, who lived in Louisiana, moved to Ubly with Nicole, and they are now married and have a 2-year-old son named Arrow.

These days, Nicole is a social media influencer and small-business owner. Nicole and Jeni operate Franny and the Fox, a clothing boutique featuring handmade, eco-friendly apparel. Initially, it was an online store that exclusively featured clothes for children. But upon hosting pop-up shops in Port Austin and getting great feedback, Nicole and Jeni opened a storefront in Cass City and expanded their product line to include women and babies. “My mom and I love to shop, and we’ve always had a unique style,” Nicole said. She’s happy to have the opportunity to work from home and be with her son, but she keeps up her nursing license in case she decides to return to the profession one day.

As far as keeping her options open to television, Nicole announced she had retired from “Big Brother” upon starting her family. But when producers offered her the prospect of playing “Reindeer Games,” which was filmed in just six days, she couldn’t pass it up. “Saving Christmas” through a series of holiday-themed competitions, Nicole walked away with the $100,000 prize, which she plans to use to build a barn for a hobby farm. She is back into retirement—for now. “If the opportunity for the right show at the right time appears, I’ll consider it,” she said. “But I’m also super content with never going back.”

If “Reindeer Games” is truly the end of Nicole’s reality TV career, she can retire with her head held high. “I never expected to be in this position—but I can proudly say I’ve stayed true to myself through everything,” she said. She’s made great friendships through the show and says being watched for eight years of her life undoubtedly benefited her personal growth. “It was a great learning experience,” she said. “But the thing I learned the most is that no matter where I go, I always want to come back home.”

instagram.com/coconuts_

facebook/nic.fran4

frannyandthefox.com

“I never expected to be in this position—but I can proudly say I’ve stayed true to myself through everything.”

Nicole, Arrow, and Jeni

Victor, Arrow, and Nicole

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

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.

Worms of Misfortune

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

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.

IOne of the stores in town sold bait for fi shing, 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.

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.

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NO BARRIERS 2024

IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS WILL TAKE PLACE IN JULY AND AUGUST

15

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

eligible.