May 2025 Ontonagon

Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association

May/June 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

RESTORING POWER, REBUILDING TOGETHER Annual Meeting Is June 21

Director Elections Update

The Woodland Artist

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT1

Lasting is believing.

When you pay good money for something, you think it should last.

We agree. Especially when it’s your family’s comfort.

The lifespan of even the most expensive conventional a/c is just 15-18 years. With a WaterFurnace geothermal unit, you can expect a lifespan of 25 years—sometimes even more. Plus, the life expectancy of the underground infrastructure is at least double that.

Longer unit life means less cost to you and less waste in our landfills. And that makes WaterFurnace the better choice.

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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

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

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

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

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

Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com

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

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

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/

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

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

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

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

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

The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc 1. ENERGY STAR rated units qualify for 30% through 2030 and 26% through 2032 and 22% through 2033.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

May 2025 Vol. 45, No. 5 /michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

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

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

POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO. 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 $4.43 per year, paid as part of members’ electric bills. The current magazine cost is 56 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.

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MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

See details on page 10. Best Potato Dishes, due July 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

GUEST COLUMN

Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published!

MYSTERY PHOTO

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

14

6 CELEBRATING THE

MAGICAL NORTHERN MICHIGAN MOREL SEASON An annual springtime festival in Boyne City offers foraging, feasting, and festivities.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Mushroom Masterpieces: Savor the earthy goodness of these mushroom recipes.

14 RESTORING POWER,

REBUILDING TOGETHER After a historic ice storm, co-ops and communities rallied to restore power— and hope—across Northern Michigan.

18 NO BARRIERS WARRIORS Applications now being accepted for No Barriers outdoor adventures.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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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 Paul Koski, Director 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, CEO/General Manager Alex Watson, Billing Clerk Justin Sironen, Operations Manager Kelsey Preiss, Administrative Assistant 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.

KENEENAW

HOUGHTON

ONTONAGON BARAGA

Powering Through Summer:

How We Are Outage Ready

By Dallas Aho, General Manager

Summer is almost here, and families are gearing up for a few months of fun and relaxation. While summer brings much fun in the sun, it can also get the occasional severe storm.

In the event of a power outage, you can trust that Ontonagon REA is ready to respond.

The major cause of most power outages is damage to power lines caused by falling trees and branches. We work yearround—through right-of-way clearing—to ensure power lines in our service territory stand little risk of being damaged by trees, branches, or other types of vegetation.

Despite our best efforts, transmission stations, substations, and power lines can be damaged during major storms. When this happens, our first priority is to safely restore power to as many members as possible in the shortest amount of time.

We start by mobilizing our line crews and other critical staff. Every phone line available is utilized to take your outage report calls. The big problems are handled first—like damage to transmission lines, which serve thousands of people. These problems must be corrected before we can focus on other areas where more localized damage may have occurred.

Ontonagon’s line crews inspect substations to determine if the problem starts there or if there could be an issue down the line. If the root of the problem is at the substation, power can be restored to thousands of members.

Next, line crews check the service lines that deliver power to neighborhoods and communities. They repair the damaged lines, restoring power to hundreds of people. If you continue to experience an outage, a tap line outside of your home or business may be damaged. Make sure you notify Ontonagon REA so crews can inspect these lines.

We will do our best to avoid power outages, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Be sure to check our website and Facebook page on your smartphone for the latest updates during a power outage. ontonagon.coop

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MAY 2025

/OntonagonCountyREA

Ontonagon County REA/Dec. 31, 2024, & Dec. 31, 2023 Financial Statement Balance Sheet

Statement of Revenue and Patronage Capital

Year ended December 31 ASSETS

Year ended December 31

2024

2023

Electric Plant

$ 24,792,733

$ 24,928,726

Investments

1,412,966

1,291,168

Current Assets

2,267,899

1,846,128

Regulatory Assets

(103,424)

14,623

Purchased Power Distribution Expense

Deferred Debits

24,948

33,848

TOTAL ASSETS

$ 28,395,122

$ 28,114,492

MARGINS & EQUITIES (NET POSITION) Memberships

$

Patronage Capital

22,800

$

22,740

8,134,897

7,991,957

Operating Margins - Current Year

308,188

51,164

Nonoperating Margins

71,390

91,777

Other Margins and Equities

32,497

32,497

8,569,773

$ 8,190,134

TOTAL MARGINS & EQUITIES

$

LIABILITIES Long-Term Debt, net

$ 17,285,677

$ 16,803,525

Current Liabilities

1,819,779

2,419,034

Total Other Noncurrent Liabilities

143,662

135,040

Deferred Credits

577,199

566,759

TOTAL LIABILITIES

19,826,317

19,924,358

$ 28,395,122

$ 28,114,492

TOTAL NET POSITION & LIABILITIES

2024

2023

$

7,457,796

$ 6,852,533

$

2,248,461

$ 2,160,327

1,632,323

1,418,279

Consumer & Customer Service Expense

363,615

14,623

Depreciation

912,217

33,848

Taxes

325,421

277,413

1,027,808

1,045,593

6,509,844

$ 6,175,709

OPERATING REVENUE OPERATING EXPENSES

General & Administrative Expense TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES

$

TOTAL OPERATING INCOME

$

947,952

$

676,825

Interest Expense

(672,911)

(690,011)

Interest & Investment Income

128,647

125,265

Other Nonoperating Revenues (expenses), net

(24,110)

30,862

CHANGE IN NET POSITION

$

379,578

$

142,940

Consumer Cooperative Act Disclosure Name

Address

Email

Title and District

Term*

William Hodges

5166 S. Big Traverse Bay Road, Lake Linden, MI 49945

district7@ontorea.com

Director—President Lake Linden District

2027

Calvin Koski

18338 Aura Road, L’anse, MI 49946

district4@ontorea.com

Director— Vice President Aura

2027

Mildred Ann Gasperich

58807 Lakeshore Drive, Calumet, MI 49913

district6@ontorea.com

Director—Secretary Boston

2026

Randy Myhren

35401 Woodspur Road, Ontonagon, MI 49953

district1@ontorea.com

Director—Treasurer Green/Firesteel/Toivola

2025

Jack Lehto

16772 Gristmil Road, Baraga, MI 49908

district3@ontorea.com

Director Pelke/Herman/Aura

2025

Paul Koski

14783 N. Cemetery Road, Ewen, MI 49925

district2@ontorea.com

Director Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine

2026

Michael Gaunt

P.O. Box 497, Chassell, MI 49916

district5@ontorea.com

Director Chassell/Keweenaw Bay

2025

*All terms expire in June.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

Celebrating the Magical Northern Michigan Morel Season Every spring, a charming lakeside Michigan town gathers to celebrate the marvelous morel mushrooms. For more than 60 years, those merry for morels have traveled far and wide to Boyne City, Michigan, for the National Morel Mushroom Festival.

Held annually on the weekend after Mother’s Day, the National Morel Mushroom Festival is a one-of-akind event, drawing hundreds of mushroom hunters and food lovers from all corners of the country.

During this four-day, fungi-filled celebration, festivalgoers come to indulge in nature’s delectable treat and be immersed in the magic of the morel season.

Recognized for their nutty, earthy flavor and honeycomb-like appearance, morel mushrooms are rare and highly sought-after. The

mushroom’s fleeting season usually lasts from mid-April to mid-May. Michigan’s climate, with its mix of hardwood forests and rich soil, provides the ideal conditions for morels to thrive.

The morel’s mystique makes it a prized find among foragers, and competitive mushroom hunts are a popular annual tradition of the National Morel Mushroom Festival. Participants venture into nearby forests, armed with baskets and a little luck, in search of these elusive fungi. Given an allotted amount of time to hunt morels, the person who finds the most is awarded a prize.

Savor the Flavor: A Culinary Celebration of Morels During the festival’s premiere event, Taste of Morels, local chefs not only showcase their creativity but also compete for the top-three winning morel-infused dishes. Boyne City restaurants and food vendors rise to the occasion, crafting this rare and flavorful mushroom in a variety of intriguing ways.

The largest concentration of morel mushroom cooking in the world takes place at the National Morel Mushroom Festival. From morel-

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MAY 2025

stuffed ravioli to creamy morel soups and savory morel stroganoff, food is at the heart of the festival.

Another signature sellout festival event is Morel Wine & Dine, held at the Beach House Restaurant on Deer Lake. This is a must-visit experience to savor scenic lake views alongside morel-inspired hors d’oeuvres plates, each paired with fine wines.

Art, Music, and Morel Magic: A Festival of Creativity & Entertainment Beyond its culinary delights, the festival comes alive with nightly entertainment and vibrant daytime activities. As the sun sets, live music takes center stage, with local bands and regional talent bringing high-energy performances to the Motherload Bash—perfect for dancing the night away.

By day, visitors can stroll through rows of canopy tents filled with handcrafted goods, morel-themed art, and unique souvenirs at the arts & crafts show.

Artisans and vendors showcase their work, while live demonstrations, fresh mushrooms, and morel-infused teas tempt curious taste-testers.

Festivalgoers can snack their way through an array of delicious options, from crowd-pleasing burgers and food truck favorites to international flavors and indulgent desserts.

For those looking to get creative, Duncan Studios hosts Painting in the Park, offering guided painting sessions where participants can craft and take home their own morelinspired masterpiece. Adults can also join a Paint & Sip event, enjoying a complimentary glass of wine or beer while following step-by-step instructions to create Michiganthemed morel art.

Aspiring foragers can attend a free morel hunting seminar, where experts share tips on identifying, harvesting, and preparing these prized mushrooms while teaching the difference between true morels and potentially poisonous look-alikes for safe foraging.

Families will love the festival’s classic carnival experience, featuring thrilling rides, competitive midway games, and all the nostalgic fair food favorites. Whether you’re looking for adventure, creativity, or a chance to indulge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The National Morel Mushroom Festival in Boyne City is more than just a celebration of a seasonal delicacy—it’s a testament to smalltown hospitality and a community’s love for nature, food, and togetherness.

Whether you come for the gourmet dishes, exploring the woods in search of morels, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, you embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Boyne City’s 65th Annual National Morel Mushroom Festival is Thursday, May 15, through Sunday, May 18, 2025. More information and a full schedule of events can be found at bcmorelfestival.com or on their Facebook page.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of our visit to the National Morel Mushroom Festival

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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S TAY S A F E

5 YE

A R- R O U N D

Electrical Safety Tips for Your Home May is Electrical Safety Month—a great reminder that while electricity powers our lives, it must be used carefully to avoid risks like fires and injuries. Your electric cooperative is committed to helping you stay safe, not just in May but all year long.

Here are five quick tips to reduce electrical hazards at home:

CHECK YOUR WIRING

!

Inspect your home regularly for damaged cords or outdated wiring. Frayed extension cords are a major fire hazard—use them temporarily, not as a permanent solution. If needed, have an electrician install additional outlets.

USE SURGE PROTECTORS WISELY

Protect electronics from power surges with quality surge protectors. Remember: Not all power strips offer surge protection, and older ones may need replacing.

!

DON’T OVERLOAD OUTLETS

Spread out high-powered appliances like space heaters and microwaves. Overloaded outlets or power strips can overheat and spark fires.

KEEP ELECTRICITY AWAY FROM WATER

Always keep electrical items dry and away from water sources.

Install GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas, and never touch appliances with wet hands.

TALK ABOUT SAFETY

Teach your family—especially children—about the dangers of electricity. Create and practice an emergency plan that includes electrical safety.

By following these simple steps, you can help keep your home and family safe.

Electrical safety starts at home—and it starts with awareness, all year long.

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

MICHIGAN’S FARMLANDS 1. Time to make hay on Golden Glow Rd. Lisa Rhodes 2. F armer girls working the field. Danielle Impola 3. R etired but not forgotten on the backroads of Chassell. Kevin Stevens

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4. A tractor sits under towering silos near Tapiola. Nathan Miller 5. T eddy got through the fence. Dora Silk 6. W here cattle once roamed. Sandy Menge

Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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4 Submit A Photo & Win A Bill Credit! Ontonagon REA members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2025 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a credit of $50 on their December 2025 energy bills!

Upcoming Topics and Deadlines: Michigan’s Waterfalls, due May 25 (July/Aug. issue) College Towns, due July 25 (Sept./Oct. issue)

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To submit photos, and for details and instructions, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines.

We look forward to seeing your best photos!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

MUSHROOM MASTERPIECES Explore creative and flavorful ways to cook with mushrooms.

WINNING RECIPE!

CRAB STUFFED MUSHROOMS Amanda Herbert, Midwest Energy & Communications

2 (8-ounce packs) fresh mushrooms ³⁄4 cup melted butter 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach 1 cup crab meat 12 ounces cream cheese ¹⁄2 teaspoon garlic salt ¹⁄2 teaspoon lemon pepper 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce ¹⁄2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese 2 dashes of Tabasco sauce ³⁄4 teaspoon white wine Preheat oven to 350 F. Take stems out of mushrooms, rinse, then place in 13x9-inch baking dish. Mix all ingredients together.

Top mushrooms with mix. Bake immediately for 15 minutes, then broil till golden brown.

Serve and enjoy.

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Best Potato Dishes, due July 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 2025

MOREL MUSHROOM MOUSSE Tamara Elhart, Great Lakes Energy 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature ¹⁄4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter, room temperature ³⁄4 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon butter ¹⁄4 cup finely chopped onion ¹⁄2 cup chopped fresh morel mushrooms 2 tablespoons Marsala wine Using an electric mixer, combine cream cheese, butter, and white pepper. Mix until cream cheese and butter are fluffy. Melt another tablespoon of butter in small skillet over medium heat.

Add onions and sauté until onions are tender. Add mushrooms and sauté for 1 minute. Add Marsala wine to the skillet and allow juices to reduce to about 2 tablespoons of liquid. Remove from stove and allow mushroom mixture to cool completely.

Add mushroom mixture into cream cheese mixture and blend using electric mixture until fluffy and combined. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Remove and allow mousse to come to room temperature—serve with crackers.

STUFFED MUSHROOMS Debra Buback, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 1 pound large whole white mushrooms 1 tablespoon butter ¹⁄2 cup finely chopped onion ¹⁄2 cup finely chopped green pepper 1 (5-ounce jar) Kraft Old English cheese spread 1 tablespoon Frank’s hot sauce, optional or to taste.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Wipe mushrooms clean, do not wash.

Remove stems and finely chop (I use a mini food processor to finely chop stems and veggies). In medium sauté pan, melt butter on medium heat, and add stems, onions, and green pepper. Sauté until soft and most of the liquid is cooked off.

Add cheese spread. Stir and mix well until cheese is melted.

Add Frank’s hot sauce, if using. Turn heat to low, and stuff mushrooms. Fill each as much as possible. Place on a sheet pan and bake about 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

SULPHUR SHELF SNACK (AKA – CHICKEN OF THE WOODS) Kim Ison, Midwest Energy & Communications 1 tablespoon chopped onion 2 tablespoons of butter 2 cups cleaned sulphur shelf mushrooms, cut into bite-size pieces ³⁄4 cup chicken broth 1 clove of finely chopped garlic ¹⁄4 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Sauté the onion in butter for 1 minute, add mushrooms, and stir until the butter is absorbed. Add the broth and cook for 15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.

Add the garlic, sour cream, and salt. Stir over low until well blended. Sprinkle with parsley, and serve with crackers or toast rounds. Serve immediately.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

FUEL MIX REPORT

The fuel mix characteristics of Ontonagon REA as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 12/31/24.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source

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

Coal

16.735%

24.145%

Oil

0.248%

0.442%

Gas

22.303%

38.770%

Hydroelectric

0.469%

0.591%

Nuclear

41.962%

24.869%

Renewable Fuels

18.284%

11.183%

Biofuel

0.403%

0.673%

Biomass

0.162%

0.306%

Solar

1.143%

1.878%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.082%

0.138%

Wind

16.290%

7.863%

Wood

0.204%

0.325%

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

NOTICE OF 2025 ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS OF ONTONAGON COUNTY RURAL ELECTRIFICATION ASSOCIATION Date of Notice: May 20, 2025 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 21, 2025.

Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association Mildred Gasperich, secretary

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.

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

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

Ontonagon REA Summer Office Hours REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

Effective May 5 to September 2, the office hours are Monday–Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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

Your co-op

Regional average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.54

0.85

Carbon Dioxide

654.4

1,060.2

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.42

0.70

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 12/31/24.

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.

12 MAY 2025

Memorial Day and Fourth of July Office Closures Cooperative offices will be closed on Monday, May 26, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday and Friday, 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.

Three Board Seats Up for Election in June

Copper Harbor

Boston

Your voice matters in our cooperative’s upcoming board elections. As a member of the cooperative, you’re not just a customer—you’re an owner. And owners have a say in who leads them.

Lake Linden

Houghton Toivola

Chassell

Ontonagon Firesteel

The Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association is governed by a seven-member board, with directors serving three-year terms.

Pelkie

Keweenaw Bay

L’Anse

Green

Aura

Aura/ Skanee

Lake Mine

Bruce Crossing

This year, three districts are up for election:

Ewen

Herman

Trout Creek

District 1: Green/Firesteel/Toivola District 3: Pelkie/Herman/Aura District 5: Chassell/Keweenaw Bay

Voting Districts

Key Dates: • May 5: Deadline for nominating petitions • After May 5: Ballots will be mailed to members in Districts 1, 3, and 5 • June 16, 2025: Ballots must be returned to our office by this date Ballots should be mailed or delivered to: 500 J.K. Paul St., Ontonagon, MI 49953 Have questions?

Give us a call—we’re happy to help!

District 1: Green/Firesteel/Toivola . . . . . . . 618 District 2: Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine. . . 749 District 3: Pelkie/Herman/Aura. . . . . . . . . . 643 District 4: Aura/Skanee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 681 District 5: Chassell/Keweenaw Bay. . . . . . . 701 District 6: Boston. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 785 District 7: Lake Linden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 852

You’re invited to the Ontonagon REA

2025 ANNUAL MEETING It’s a great opportunity to: • Catch up with friends and neighbors • Hear important updates from your board of directors • Participate in shaping your co-op’s future • Enjoy lunch on us and enter to win cash prizes!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m. • Chassell High School • 41585 U.S. Hwy. 41, Chassell, MI 49916

RESTORING POWER, REBUILDING TOGETHER

By Emily Haines Lloyd

Ice can be beautiful— but not when it brings disaster to a region.

In Northern Michigan, beauty turned brutal in hours. What began as a quiet snowfall late on March 28 quickly escalated into a catastrophic ice storm, coating counties at the tip of the mitten in a thick, glassy shell.

Trees snapped under the weight of more than an inch of ice, power lines were pulled down like string, and thousands of electric poles splintered or collapsed under the strain.

Nearly 100,000 cooperative member homes and businesses lost power—many for far longer than expected.

This storm was one of the most challenging Michigan co-ops had ever faced. The damage wasn’t just widespread—it was layered and difficult to access. Heavy ice brought down trees and power lines, while relentless waves of snow, wind, and freezing rain made conditions too difficult and dangerous for crews to begin restoration work until day three. Downed lines were buried beneath tangled debris, and poles had snapped in remote, hard-to-reach areas. Great Lakes Energy (GLE), which typically replaces around 800 poles per year, replaced that many within the first three days once restoration could begin. Crews worked around the clock in brutal conditions, pushing through exhaustion and emotional strain, knowing thousands were still without power, heat, internet, and water.

Photo by Jeremy Bassett

Meteorologists called it a “generational” storm—comparable to a multi-day Category 5 hurricane. After the first wave, 99% of Presque Isle Electric & Gas (PIE&G) members had lost power— something that had never happened in the co-op’s 88-year history.

“We call this storm ‘unprecedented,’ because it is,” said Allan Berg, PIE&G CEO. “No other network in our state has been completely taken down like this. But our restoration work is also setting records.”

In a unique show of cross-functional mutual aid, not just lineworkers—but engineers, IT and administrative staff, vegetation management teams, logistics coordinators, and communicators— joined the effort. The situation called for everyone.

Despite the scope of damage, progress was steady. By April 14, most electric outages had been restored, with remaining pockets on track for rebuild and restoration in the days ahead.

The work now shifts to fiber network restoration alongside continued recovery of the electric system, including debris removal over thousands of miles of infrastructure.

But even amid crisis, the storm revealed something extraordinary: the strength and heart of the community.

Every Michigan co-op sent support, and others came from across the

country. Mutual aid crews worked side by side with local teams, sharing tools, resources, and long days. Their dedication was nothing short of heroic.

The Cooperative Difference

Community members stepped up, too.

Great Lakes Energy and Presque Isle Electric & Gas set up “Storm Camp” at the Otsego County Fairgrounds outside Gaylord. Staffed by volunteers, the site provided bunkhouses, meals, and laundry for a capacity of 1,200 field crews. Neighbors opened their homes. Businesses donated supplies.

Across Northern Michigan, people came together—not because they had to, but because that’s who we are.

While Northern Michigan battled ice, Southern Michigan was also hit hard. On March 30, 2025, severe thunderstorms tore through Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC)’s service area, bringing 80 mph winds and two tornadoes.

The storm snapped 140 poles and knocked out power to over 10,000 members at the peak—the largest storm the co-op had faced in at least 30 years.

"It's been amazing to see our team, but also contractors, families, mutual aid workers from across the country, volunteers from other co-ops, and our community—all show up to get power restored,” said Shaun Lamp, GLE CEO. “When you see people show up for one another, it’s humbling.”

MEC crews worked tirelessly through ongoing storms to restore service. Everyone—from lineworkers to dispatchers to warehouse teams—came together to get the lights back on.

Yes, ice can be beautiful—but its beauty fades when it freezes life in place. What lasts longer is the spirit of the people who faced it together: neighbors helping neighbors, strangers becoming friends, and a region proving that even in the harshest conditions, we endure—and we power on.

Follow the day-by-day restoration story at meca.coop/outage-center.

Then, they packed up and headed north.

Once their own system was restored, MEC crews joined mutual aid efforts to help storm-ravaged communities in Northern Michigan.

That’s the cooperative difference.

We don’t just serve—we show up.

Local teams. National reach. A shared commitment to keeping the lights on—together.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

The Woodland Artist

By Yvonne M. Whitman

Buffalo, New York, native Dan Ferrentino traveled a long way to carve out a peaceful and artistic retirement in the Upper Peninsula. After graduating from college with degrees in biology, geology, and computer science, he had a decadeslong career in the greater Washington, D.C., area, working for the Department of Defense as a computer scientist.

After retiring in 2012, he and his partner Jen began to explore their options and where they may like to relocate to. Specifically, someplace less hectic. “Jen went to school at NMU and has family in the area,” Dan said. “We spent some summer vacations here, and we both loved it. So, we got on Zillow, and then we jumped in the car, and 18 hours later, we were here looking at houses. And we’re still here.”

They chose a lakeside home nestled in the peaceful woods outside of Gwinn—quite different from the hustle and bustle of D.C. “I just didn’t want a lot of neighbors anymore. I wanted peace and quiet,” he says thoughtfully.

16 MAY 2025

For the first three years, Dan did some remodeling projects in their home. Once the work was completed, he began thinking about what he would like to do and exploring his options. “I have always loved wood—the different types of wood, the characteristics, everything,” he said. “And with my background in geology, I also had an innate love of rocks. I thought to myself, how can I combine these two things.” he said. It turns out that the answer was right outside his door.

A burl is a woody outgrowth on a tree that forms when a tree’s growth is disrupted. Burls are prized for their unique wood grain patterns and are often used in woodworking.

They are readily found on trees in the Upper Peninsula, and Dan found his medium for what he wanted to create art from. He watched some tutorials online in his initial efforts, but he is a self-taught artist. “I wanted to do things my own way and create something unique,” he says.

“ I love to keep the natural beauty of the wood and its imperfections. And to me, I love some cracks and holes in the wood and the character it brings to each piece I create.”

When creating a piece, Dan stays true to the integrity of the original product. “I love to keep the natural beauty of the wood and its imperfections,” he said. “And to me, I love some cracks and holes in the wood and the character it brings to each piece I create.” Initially, he purchased the burls, but as Dan says, “Word got around, and people just started to bring them to me. I would tell them, ‘If you give me a piece, I’ll make something for you.’” His walks in the forest surrounding his woodland home also yielded raw products for his artistry.

He uses a variety of native trees, such as maple, cherry, and ironwood. Once he has the burl in his workshop, “It tells me what it wants to be,” he says with a grin. Mantle clocks, bowls, wet and dry vases, bar stools, bookends, tables, and decorative boxes are just some of the items he creates from tree burls.

The process begins with using a chainsaw to either slab or cut the burl into pieces, whether it’s going to be for a bowl, a clock, or something else. Next is power carving using various grinders with different blades and labor-intensive carving and sanding. “I’m meticulous, and I like to take my time,” he said.

He incorporates his love of geology by using geodes in many of his pieces and using genuine stone, minerals, and metal for the inlay in his works. Turquoise, malachite, chrysocolla, red coral, pipestone, powdered copper, bronze, and aluminum can be found inlaid in much of his artistry. Dan first sieves all the stone material to different sizes, from larger chips to fine powder, to fill cracks. After a glue application, he sands the wood several times to achieve an incredibly smooth and visually impactful surface.

When he first began creating his burl artwork pieces, he gifted them to family and friends. He also began filling his home with them and amassing quite an inventory. With a chuckle, he says, “My wife is very patient, but at a certain point, she said we needed to find another home for my continued endeavors.” As such, Dan Ferrentino’s artwork can be seen at Zero Degrees Gallery in Marquette, Michigan.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

2025

NO BARRIERS ADVENTURES FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY DISABILITIES—APPLY BY MAY 15 FOR IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS & EXPERIENCES TAKING PLACE JUNE-SEPTEMBER No Barriers Programs Serve: • • • •

Apply by May 15 to be considered!

People with disabilities Veterans with disabilities Youth with disabilities & their families Family caregivers

In-person programs run from June to September

Michigan electric cooperatives believe there should be “No Barriers” for people affected by disabilities. That’s the name and idea behind CoBank’s No Barriers initiative. Michigan cooperatives are seeking affected adults, veterans*, youth, and caregivers from our local community to participate in No Barriers’ multi-day basecamp experiences and backcountry experiences, where participants will learn to overcome challenges and leave ready to elevate their lives and communities.

Full and partial scholarship opportunities for qualified applicants** *Must have VA disability rating to be eligible. **Fundraising required for those who do not qualify for a scholarship.

Learn more & apply: nobarriersusa.org Contact us: info@nobarriersusa.org 970-484-3633, ext. 201

Don’t miss this chance to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Apply today!

MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Where In Michigan Is This?

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

March 2025 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Daryl Feldpausch, a HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Scott Sunken Garden in Lansing, Michigan.

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

18 MAY 2025

The Affordable Geothermal System for Rural Homeowners

Add a Well-Connect to your existing furnace in one day and heat & cool for half the cost for decades.

Financing, 30% Tax Credit, and Rebates Available SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE 1-833-GEOWELL wellconnectgeo.com

Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association /OntonagonCountyREA

ontonagon.coop

Michigan’s free & easy utility notification system.

For your safety and for the protection of underground utility lines, always follow these steps before starting any digging project: 1. C ontact MISS DIG at 811 or missdig.org.

2. W ait three business days for utility owners to mark their lines.

3. Respect the marks.

4. Dig with care.

Visit missdig.org for more information.