May 2024 PIE&G

COUNTRY LINES

A DREAM TAKES ROOT

THE TALE OF BENNY THE BEARD FISHER

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!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Allan Berg, Chairman 8400 Lost Lake Rd., Hawks, MI 49743 989-734-0044 • Term Expires 2026

Sandy Borowicz, Secretary 5341 Carlson Rd., Cheboygan, MI 49721 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2024

John Brown, Vice Chairman

21 W. Devereaux Lake Rd., Indian River, MI 49749 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026

Sally Knopf

1849 W. 638 Hwy., Rogers City, MI 49779 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2024

Kurt Krajniak 7630 Wallace Rd., Alpena, MI 49707 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2025

Brentt Lucas, Treasurer 15841 Carr Rd., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2025

Chris Nagel 3842 N. Mielke Way, Lewiston, MI 49756 616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026

Daryl Peterson

P.O. Box 54, Hillman, MI 49746 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2024

Raymond Wozniak 6737 State St., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-2498 • Term Expires 2025

President & CEO: Thomas J. Sobeck tsobeck@pieg.com

Co-op Editor: Sommer Poquette spoquette@pieg.com

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 Main Street (M-211) Onaway, MI 49765

Business Office & Billing: 989-733-8515

Toll-Free: 800-423-6634 Gas Emergency Toll-Free: 800-655-8565

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op is an equal opportunity provider and employer. PIE&G natural gas rates and charges are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

IPIE&G Connect Fiber Internet Expansion Update

Tom Sobeck, President & CEO

’m excited to share some promising updates about progress with PIE&G Connect, our fiber internet initiative. Since commencing construction in 2022, we’ve achieved significant milestones, having completed 1,230 miles of fiber as of today.

Phase one has successfully concluded, and I’m pleased to report that we’re now 72% through with phase two. This advancement brings us closer to our primary objective of providing our electric members with high-speed fiber internet.

I understand that many of you are eagerly anticipating fiber internet in your area. I’m delighted to announce that we are presently accepting member applications from communities such as Afton, Black Lake, Canada Creek, Fingerboard, Hammond Bay, Indian River, Millersburg, Mullett Lake, Ocqueoc, Onaway, Topinabee, Tower, and Wolverine.

Moreover, for those residing in communities where we’re accepting applications, we offer top-notch phone service featuring the latest Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. Delivered through the same fiberoptic network as our super-fast internet services, our phone service prioritizes reliability, clarity, and quality. PIE&G Connect also provides standalone phone services (no internet).

For those curious about when construction will commence in their area, I encourage you to visit piegconnect.com and consult our updated fiber construction timeline. This timeline outlines the projected progress of our project over the next several years, and we are committed to completing each phase efficiently and effectively. We’re working diligently and safely to bring these services to you as swiftly as possible.

Thank you for your ongoing support and patience as we strive to deliver reliable, high-speed fiber internet and superior phone service to our communities. Together, we’re paving the way for a brighter future in Northeast Michigan.

Office Closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024.

We will resume regular office hours on Tuesday, May 28. Payments can be made in our Dropbox, by calling 866-999-4571, at pieg.com, or by using the SmartHub app. If there is an emergency, please call 1 (800) 423-6634.

Recent Communities First Fund Grants Awarded

At a recent meeting, the PIE&G Communities

First Fund Board of Directors finalized grants of $5,350 to the recipients listed below.

ALPENA

Friends of the Plaza Pool ($350) for the purchase of life jackets that will be used during group Red Cross youth swimming and safety lessons. The life jackets will also be used for the Ready Set Swim Program— a safety/learn-to-swim program for all Alpena County second graders and several other surrounding schools.

MONTMORENCY

New Beginnings Ministry – HARP ($5,000) to purchase food for the pantry in Hillman. This is the only food pantry in Hillman besides a pop-up pantry that happens once a month. Last year, over 14,856 meals were provided to those in need.

2024 Communities First Fund Scholarships Awarded

The PIE&G Communities First Fund Board of Directors is pleased to announce that fifteen (15) $1,000 scholarships were awarded to the following high school seniors:

ALPENA

Mia Couture

CHEBOYGAN

Elizabeth Vanfleet

HILLMAN

Trenton Taratuta

Cassidy Benac

Kameran Paulk

Autumn Kazyaka

Nicole Barbeau

HOME SCHOOL

Logan Detloff

INLAND LAKES

Hanna Hinman

POSEN

Mallory Donajkowski

Hailey Lucas

John Romel

Jocelyn Hincka

ROGERS CITY

Katelyn Bielas

SACRED HEART ACADEMY

Connor Stempky

The A. Barkley Travis Memorial Scholarship, valued at $500, was awarded to Matthew Daniels from Lutheran High School in Westland.

The Peterson Vocation School Scholarship, valued at $500, was awarded to Wyatt Sobey from Hillman High School.

The Murville & Carolyn Douglas Scholarship, valued at $1,000, was awarded to Morgan Arbour from Hillman High School.

The Nathan W. Douglas Scholarship, valued at $1,000, was awarded to Evan Themel from Posen High School.

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.

Swap Your Lawn Equipment This Spring

Switching 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 PIE&G Energy Optimization program. For full details and information on how to apply, visit pieg.com/eo or call 877-296-4319.

Flowers & Gardens

Enter to win up to a $50 energy bill credit!

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

Submit your best photo and encourage others to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our photo contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites. 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 pieg.com/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2025 bill.

MOST VOTES

1. Our backyard flower gardens. Timothy and Torry Horrocks

2. Blue sea holly bloom with bee. Dayle Kull

3. Late summer sunset in Riggsville. Julie Stacks

4. Our little pup loves flowers. Deb Radle

5. The excitement of a handful of daffodils. Amie Schoolcraft

6. Our garden by the bridge. Linda Luginbill

7. My husband in the middle of the most beautiful garden I’ve ever seen! Debbie Rhoades

8. Picking his first strawberry. Heiderose MacDonald

9. No phones, no tablets, no social media. Let’s make the next generation of hunters, gatherers, farmers, and gardeners. Angela Detzler

10. Beautiful blooms, blissful skies. Paula Lail

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.

THE CLEAN ENERGY BALANCING ACT

Shrinking electric supply, growing electric demand

THE BROADENING GAP BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND

Rising Electric Demand

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

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

Diminishing Electric Supply

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

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

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

The clean energy transition is underway and Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op leads by example, providing members with energy that is 60% carbon free.

Nearly 2x the regional average.

60% Co-op’s Fuel Mix

vs.

35% Regional Average Fuel Mix

So what do we do right now?

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

66%

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

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

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

FIVE STEPS FOR SAFE DIGGING

Working on an outdoor project? Careless digging poses a threat to people, pipelines, and underground facilities. Always call 8-1-1 first. Here are five easy steps for safe digging:

Call 8-1-1 or make a request online three to five days before your work begins. The operator will notify the utilities affected by your project.

Wait two to three days for affected utilities to respond to your request. They will send a locator to mark any underground utility lines.

2-3

Confirm that all affected utilities have responded to your request by comparing the marks to the list of utilities the 8-1-1 call center notified.

Respect the markers provided by the affected utilities. The markers are your guide for the duration of your project.

If you can’t avoid digging near the markers (within 18-24 inches on all sides, depending on state laws), consider moving your project location.

Know What’s Below Steps for Safe Digging

Spring is just around the corner, and there’s never been a better time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Perhaps you’re making plans for a new garden or a lawn makeover. However, if you’re planning to revamp your backyard oasis, remember to keep safety in mind for all projects—especially those that require digging near underground utility lines.

Most of us never think about the electric, gas, water, and other utility lines buried below the ground, but hitting one of these lines while digging is not the reminder you’ll want—trust us! PIE&G reminds all members who are planning a digging project to call 811 at least three business days before you start. Or you can submit a request online by visiting www.call811.com/811-In-YourState. Here’s how the process works:

After you call 811 or submit your request online, all affected utilities will be notified of your intent to dig. It may take the utilities a few days to get to your request, so please be patient. The affected utilities will send someone out to mark the buried lines with paint or flags. Before you break ground, confirm that all the utilities have responded to your request. If you placed your request by phone, use the process your 811 call center representative explained. If you submitted your request online, refer to your 811 center ticket to confirm everything.

By taking this important step before you break ground on your project, you can help protect not only yourself but our community. Disrupting an underground utility line can interrupt service, cause injuries, and cost money to repair, so remember to call 811 first and know what’s below.

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/

Grow Your Summer Energy Savings

PIE&G can help you save money.

By Maura Giles

ne of my favorite things about summer is the opportunity for fresh, homegrown food, whether it’s shopping at the local farmers’ market or sharing the abundance of garden tomatoes with a neighbor. It’s amazing how just a few seeds, some fertilizer, and water can turn into a bounty.

OWhen I think about energy efficiency, I think about that bounty of food, and how with just a few simple actions, you can use less electricity and reap the rewards of energy savings.

You don’t need to be a farmer or botanist to know that plants need water—just like you don’t have to be a lineworker or engineer to know that adjusting the thermostat or turning off lights can reduce your monthly electric bill. In fact, if you read PIE&G’s publications regularly and follow us on Facebook or Instagram, you know there are a lot of things you can do at home to save electricity and money.

Summer months bring some of the highest energy bills of the year. But why? Cooling your home accounts for a large portion of your monthly energy use, and the hotter it gets, the harder (and longer) your air conditioner works to keep you cool.

There are several ways you can manage energy use at home, and we’re providing a few tips that can help grow your summer energy savings (see right).

But I’d also like to share a few ways we’re here to help you save—not only during the dog days of summer but throughout the year.

One of the great things about being part of PIE&G

is that we’re locally owned by you, our members. So instead of making profits, we can focus on helping our community. That’s why we’ve developed incentives and programs to help you keep your money in your wallet.

Save money with these easy incentives:

• Rebates – PIE&G offers numerous ways to give you money back for efficient equipment you purchase, like heat pumps and water heaters. Many of our rebates can be claimed by simply filling out a form. Find a list of all our rebates at pieg.com/eo.

• Recycle – If you have an old refrigerator or freezer that’s running but is not used much, it’s costing you. Contact us to get it recycled and receive $25.

• Energy Audits – A Home Energy Consultation offers an in-home

5 WAYS TO SAVE THIS

SUMMER

When summer temperatures rise, so do our energy bills. Here are a few ways you can reduce energy use and grow your summer savings.

1. Raise your thermostat. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temp, the more you’ll save.

2. Install window coverings like blinds or light-blocking curtains to prevent indoor heat gain during the day.

Source: Dept. of Energy

review to address concerns, assess utility costs, and pinpoint areas for improvement. An Energy Optimization representative will walk through your home, using a checklist to identify energysaving opportunities and rebateeligible upgrades. Plus, you’ll receive energy-saving products during the visit. Afterward, you’ll receive a follow-up report detailing recommended improvements. Schedule your consultation today by calling 877-296-4319 or emailing info@michigan-energy.org and asking for an Energy Advisor.

Most people don’t know everything about electricity, and that’s why we’re here to help you. There are no investors making profits here. Just knowledgeable people with local jobs, working for our neighbors to ensure there is electricity available when you need it. Contact us, and we can work with you to find more ways to save energy—and money.

3. Seal leaks with caulk and weather stripping around windows and exterior doors. Air leaks force your air conditioner to work harder and run longer than necessary.

4. Run ceiling fans for additional cooling, but turn them off when you leave the room.

5. Lower your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees to reduce standby heat loss.

Your Board In Action

At their most recent meeting, the PIE&G Board of Directors…

• Approved an increase to the Estate Retirement Discount Factor from 5.74% to 5.87%.

• Approved four organizations for participation in the CoBank Sharing Success program.

• Approved Resolution 2024-06 recognizing the retirement of employee Scott MacGregor.

• Recognized Community First Fund Directors Gloria Adrian, Elias Taratuta, and Sally Wong for their service on the Communities First Fund Board of Directors.

• Appointed Terry Materna, Jennifer Standen, and Daniel Kandow to the Communities First Fund Board of Directors.

• Authorized staff to borrow up to $9 million over the next three months if necessary to fund utility plant construction.

• Accepted Team Reports.

ACCESS TO RULES AND RATES

Please be advised that the following information is available to Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 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 visiting pieg.com or contacting Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op at 989-733-8515.

FUEL MIX REPORT

The fuel mix characteristics of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 12/31/23.

OF FUEL SOURCES USED

EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON

of emission/waste

Nuclear

*Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/23. Presque Isle Electric & Gas purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.

COMPARISON

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.

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

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

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

• Installs in one day, any time of year. COOL