May 2026 HomeWorks

HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative

May 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES Angeline Boulley

Writing Native Stories Rooted in Michigan

How Tree Trimming Keeps Your Power Reliable May Is Electrical Safety Month Digging Safety Tips

WELL,

WELL

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WELL

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LOOK WHO’S READY FOR GEOTHERMAL. Your well could lower your heating and cooling costs.

If your home has a well, you may be halfway to a geothermal HVAC system.

Your water well can make switching to a WaterFurnace geothermal heating and cooling system easier and more affordable. An existing well can often serve as part of the geothermal loop field, reducing installation timelines and costs.

WaterFurnace delivers: •

Steady, year-round heating and cooling that’s twice as efficient and lasts 40% longer than traditional HVAC

•

Savings of up to 70% on home energy costs

•

Long-lasting HVAC system that adds home value

Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to schedule a no-pressure home assessment for a personalized estimate.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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

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

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

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. Well suitability varies by home and site condition. A Certified WaterFurnace dealer will confirm eligibility.

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

May 2026 Vol. 46, 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’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

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MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

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6 DISCOVERING

MICHIGAN’S MAGIC: A hidden culinary gem in Leelanau.

See details on page 10.

Pizza, due July 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

MYSTERY PHOTO

14 ANGELINE BOULLEY:

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

Salads with a Twist: Fresh. Fun. Unexpected.

WRITING NATIVE STORIES ROOTED IN MICHIGAN Identity, belonging, and the Upper Peninsula.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Clearing The Way To More Reliable Power

By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO

OSCEOLA

CLARE

MECOSTA ISABELLA

MONTCALM GRATIOT

IONIA

BARRY

SAGINAW

CLINTON

EATON

INGHAM

JACKSON

Portland office/Mail payments to: 7973 E. Grand River Ave. Portland, MI 48875 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.

Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232 Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875 Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls) Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740 HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413 BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org District 2 — Jim Stebbins 7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 517-930-8132 • jstebbins@homeworks.org District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org District 6 — Dave Livermore 8060 W. Airline Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-289-3019 • dlivermore@homeworks.org District 7 — Shirley Sprague, Secretary-Treasurer 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC cmarkwart@homeworks.org

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MAY 2026

There’s something timeless about trees.

They ground us. They remind us of where we’ve been, and they stretch toward what’s ahead. Here in our rural mid-Michigan communities, we take pride in the natural beauty that surrounds us—the shade on a summer afternoon, the colors that mark the changing seasons, the quiet strength of something that grows slowly but endures.

Here at HomeWorks, we also carry the crucial responsibility of ensuring that the homes and businesses in our communities have reliable power every day. It’s up to us to keep the lights on and guarantee that whenever you flip a switch, the energy you need is always available.

That’s why we work hard every day to strike a careful balance between preserving the beauty we cherish and delivering the reliable electricity you expect. One of the most important ways we do that is through regular tree trimming within our rights-of-way.

It may not always be obvious, but keeping lines clear of overgrown vegetation plays a critical role in preventing power outages, especially during storms. In the wake of the major ice storms that hit our northern service territory just after Christmas last year, I heard time and again from our crews how much worse the system damage and subsequent outages would have been had it not been for the investment we have made into the careful maintenance and clearing of our rights-of-way.

The fact is that nearly half of all power outages can be traced back to trees and vegetation coming into contact with electrical infrastructure. That’s why you will notice tree crews from our trusted contractors working in your neighborhoods throughout the year. Our crews are highly trained and certified, following the latest industry standards to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. Their work homeworks.org

might seem routine, but it’s anything but— it’s a proactive step that helps prevent problems before they start.

And it’s not just good practice—it’s required.

Electric utilities across the country are obligated to manage vegetation near power lines. Scheduled trimming helps remove dead or weakened limbs and keeps fastgrowing trees from becoming hazards. It’s about staying one step ahead, especially as we prepare for the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events.

But beyond reliability and efficiency, there’s another reason this work matters: safety.

Electricity is a powerful force, and when trees grow too close to power lines, that power can become dangerous. Branches that touch lines—or even come close—can carry electrical current. During storms, fallen trees can create hazardous conditions for your families and also for our lineworkers working to restore service.

There’s also a financial reality we can’t ignore. Preventative maintenance—like tree trimming—is far more cost-effective than repairing widespread damage after an outage. Left unchecked, overgrown vegetation can lead to more frequent disruptions and higher costs for everyone.

A thoughtful, strategic vegetation management program helps keep those costs down for our members.

You can help, too. When planting new trees, consider their mature height and distance from nearby power lines. Small trees (under 25 feet) should be planted at least 30 feet away from overhead lines. Trees that grow to 25–40 feet should be planted at least 40 feet away, and large trees of over 40 feet should be planted at least 60 feet away.

If you’re landscaping near pad-mounted transformers, keep shrubs at least 10 feet from the front and four feet from the sides to allow safe access.

At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: a community that’s safe, resilient, and beautiful. At HomeWorks, we’re proud to be part of that effort. Our roots run deep here, just like the trees we work to maintain.

/homeworks.org

tricoenergy@homeworks.org

Answering Your FAQs About

OUR VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM At HomeWorks, our top priority is providing you with safe and reliable electricity. That commitment shows in the fact that the power we deliver to you was over 99.95% reliable in 2025! Since the maintenance of our rights-ofway is such a crucial factor in keeping your lights on, we wanted to answer some of your FAQs about our vegetation management program.

Why Do You Clear Trees On Member Property?

Trees encroaching into the right-of-way have the tendency to make contact with or fall on electric lines during storms.

This is the number-one cause of power outages during severe weather events and a leading cause of electrical injuries and fatalities from downed power lines. Even lowgrowing vegetation in the right-of-way affects safety and reliability by making it difficult for our line crews to access our electric lines to quickly restore power after an outage.

The maintenance of our rights-of-way is the only way we can ensure electric safety and reliability for our members.

Where Are You Allowed To Trim Trees On My Property?

When you become a HomeWorks member, you are required to provide the Co-op with a private utility easement around the power lines on your property. This easement allows us to trim or remove any vegetation within that area that is encroaching on our lines and threatening the safety, reliability, and efficient restoration of the electricity that we provide to you. We typically maintain a right-of-way extending 15 feet beyond the outside electric wire along either side of our lines. Dead or

dying “danger” trees outside of this right-of-way with the potential to fall on our lines may also be removed.

Will You Trim Or Remove Trees Without Notifying Me? We notify members via postcard when our contracted tree crews are going to be working in their area, and if there is going to be any significant trimming or removal of vegetation on a property, we strive to work with the property owner to clear the easement in a way that maintains safety, reliability, and our ability to efficiently restore power after an outage while still fully respecting the aesthetics of the property. We only trim or remove vegetation that is deemed to be a threat to electric safety, reliability, and/or our ability to restore power efficiently.

Do You Clean Up The Debris After Trimming Trees?

When it comes to cleaning the property after we clear our right-of-way, we strive to do everything we can to reasonably accommodate the member’s needs. Our practice is to chip up trimmed limbs that are under four inches in diameter and block up any wood that is under 18 inches in diameter. The wood is then left to be handled at the member’s discretion.

What About My Fruit Trees Or Ornamental Vegetation?

We try to stay clear of any fruit tree or ornamental vegetation on a member’s property unless it is encroaching into the easement in a way that is affecting safety or reliability. If this is the case, we strive to work with the property owner to trim or remove the vegetation in a way that still respects the aesthetics of the landscaping.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

A Hidden Culinary Gem in Leelanau

By Cassondra Scott

Throughout Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, wine and cherries are widely popular staples, drawing visitors with their sweet appeal. But beyond those well-known flavors, the region is also home to a rich and delicious cheesemaking tradition.

A Small Creamery with Big Impact

A Legacy of Artisanal Excellence

What Makes Raclette Special

Old World Tradition Meets Michigan Dairy

Award-Winning Raclette

From Alpine Tradition to Modern Tables

Tucked away in Suttons Bay, Leelanau Cheese has been a standout in the craft cheese world for over 25 years.

The creamery blends Michigan dairy with traditional European cheesemaking techniques, earning a respected place in the local food community.

Like traditional European cheeses, Leelanau Cheese relies on climate and environment to shape its flavor and character. Its handcrafted cheeses have earned international recognition for their quality and authenticity.

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MAY 2026

Founded in 1995 by John and Anne Hoyt, Leelanau Cheese built its reputation on producing high-quality, preservative-free cheeses. Using locally sourced milk and cave-aging methods, the creamery creates cheeses known for their rich flavor and unique texture.

In 2007, Leelanau Cheese’s raclette was named Best of Show by the American Cheese Society and received Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards—an honor given to only a select few cheeses worldwide.

Raclette is a semisoft cow’s milk cheese from the Swiss Alps, known for its smooth texture and strong aroma when melted. With a short aging period and high moisture content, it melts beautifully and delivers a silky, rich experience.

Traditionally melted over an open fire and served with potatoes, raclette is now enjoyed in a variety of ways— from broiled and bubbling to sliced on charcuterie boards. Its versatility makes it a favorite for both casual meals and entertaining.

A Fresh Favorite: Fromage Blanc

Leelanau Cheese also produces fromage blanc, a soft, fresh Frenchstyle cheese with a mild, tangy flavor.

Its creamy texture makes it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.

A Versatile Culinary Staple

Whether paired with fruit and honey or blended with herbs and garlic, fromage blanc is a delicious addition to crackers, sandwiches, and cheese boards.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventures to Leelanau Cheese.

Continuing the Tradition

Partners Gary Smith and Joshua Hall have operated Leelenau Cheese since 2021. They continue to honor the creamery’s legacy while celebrating Michigan’s agricultural roots.

Visitors can tour the facility yearround, sample products, and watch cheesemaking in action.

Celebrate at the Cheese Festival

The annual Leelanau Cheese Festival highlights the region’s dairy heritage with a full day of hands-on activities, tastings, and family-friendly fun. The 2026 festival begins at 10 a.m. on June 6.

Tours, Tastings, and Hands-On Experiences

Guests can enjoy guided tours of the cheese cave, meet local cheesemakers, and participate in workshops like wine and cheese pairing or cheesemaking demonstrations.

Fun for the Whole Family

From sampling local products to participating in the Cheese Olympics, there’s something for everyone.

Kids can enjoy crafts, games, STEM activities, and even a petting zoo.

Discover Suttons Bay

Located along the eastern shore of Grand Traverse Bay, Suttons Bay offers scenic waterfront views, small-town charm, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and boating—making it the perfect backdrop for a day of cheesefilled fun.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Cook Up Energy Savings in Your Commercial Kitchen Is energy going down the drain in your commercial kitchen? Because food service buildings are four times more energy intensive than other commercial buildings in the U.S., it’s easy for energy use to get out of control.1 But where there’s a high level of use, there’s a high potential for savings.

That’s where the Energy Optimization program comes in. HomeWorks commercial electric members are eligible for rebates on energy-saving upgrades to your commercial kitchen or food service facility.

Upgrading to efficient electric ENERGY STAR® appliances, refrigeration equipment, or heating and cooling systems in your facility

can help significantly reduce energy consumption.2 An electric kitchen is also a safer kitchen, as open flames are eliminated and indoor air quality is improved.

Ready to craft your savings recipe?

Visit michigan-energy.org and select the HomeWorks 2026 Non-Lighting Application to find qualifying food service equipment and apply for your rebates.

Need assistance completing your application?

Looking for more ways to improve efficiency and save energy at your business? Our experts can help!

Contact an Energy Advisor at info@michigan-energy.org to get started today.

1. https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/ detail.php?id=60241 2. https://www.energystar.gov/products/ commercial_food_service_equipment

ON THE MENU: SAVING ENERGY Upgrade Your Commercial Kitchen with the Energy Optimization Program Earn Rebates for Qualifying Energy-Saving Equipment: X ENERGY STAR® electric steam cooker: Up to $1,650 X ENERGY STAR hot holding cabinet: $200 per unit X ENERGY STAR commercial refrigerator or freezer: $50 per unit X ENERGY STAR ice machine: $50 per unit X Combination electric oven/steamer: $1,300 per oven X And more!

Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit michigan-energy.org

MI CO-OP Snap Shot

BIRDS MOST VOTES

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1. MOST VOTES Beautiful and majestic eagle, taken March 3, 2026, near Edmore, MI. Veronica Grimm, Vestaburg 2. Framed by the trees and surrounded by silence, a single bird reminds us how peaceful the world can be when we slow down and look up.

Keylee Kain, Weidman 3. Cardinal watching over us.

Pat Johnson, Lake Odessa 4. This beautiful cardinal visits us daily! Tina Spaugh, Evart 5. Oh baby, it’s cold outside!

Vicki Robinson, Weidman 6. Beautiful cardinal from Pogy Lake. Cindy Maneke, Evart 7. Get out of my way? Baltimore orioles. Debbie Moore, Remus 8. Breakfast. Tammy Flowers, Remus

Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit!

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Submit Your “Cute Pets” Photos By May 25! Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Our May theme is Cute Pets. Photos can be submitted through May 25 to be featured in our July/August issue.

To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/photocontest.

Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2026, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2026 HomeWorks bill!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

SALADS WITH A TWIST Fresh. Fun. Unexpected.

WINNING RECIPE!

MEXICAN PASTA SALAD Mary Card, Great Lakes Energy

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 ears of corn, husks removed 1 pound macaroni noodles, cooked, drained and rinsed ½ cup red onion, finely chopped 6 Roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped ½ cup sliced black olives, drained 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained Dressing: 1 cup salsa 1 cup sour cream 1 clove garlic, minced ¼ cup mayonnaise ½ teaspoon ground cumin 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or chives ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 small limes) ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Preheat oven to 400 F. Cover a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil, then coat with the olive oil. Roll the ears of corn in the olive oil to coat and place on the baking sheet. Roast for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cool and cut the corn kernels off of the cobs and transfer to a large bowl. Then add the cooked noodles, red onion, tomatoes, black olives, and black beans and gently combine. In a small bowl, mix together the salsa, sour cream, garlic, mayonnaise, cumin, cilantro or chives, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until well blended, then pour the dressing over the salad. Gently mix until everything is coated.

Cover and chill for at least 1 hour before serving, and refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.

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

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Pizza, 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 2026

ROASTED VEGGIE SALAD WITH FETA SAUCE Alexandria Marchi, Thumb Electric 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes 1 large onion, peeled and diced 4 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil ½ teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon dried parsley ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional 1 (8.8-ounce) packet instant whole grain rice • arugula or greens of choice, chopped Yogurt Sauce: 1½ cups Greek yogurt 6 ounces feta cheese 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 lemon, zested and juiced • salt and black pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower, carrots, squash, and onion with the oil, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–35 minutes, stirring once, until tender and lightly browned.

While vegetables roast, pat garbanzo beans completely dry. Toss in same bowl, adding a little oil and any leftover spices (add cayenne if using). Air fry at 400 F for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can pan fry the garbanzo beans in a skillet over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy. Cook rice according to packet instructions. Optional: Add rice to the oiled pan and cook until crispy. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, feta, and garlic. Season with lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, to taste. On a large plate or wide bowl, layer the rice, chopped arugula, and roasted vegetables. Top with yogurt sauce and crunchy garbanzo beans. Enjoy!

MARINATED CHICKPEA SALAD Julie Duvall, Homeworks Tri-County 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 small limes) or ¼ cup vinegar ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional ¼-½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional add-ins: • cherry tomatoes, capers, olives, small cubes of feta cheese In a bowl or jar, add all of the ingredients together and toss well to combine. Can be served immediately, but it tastes better after marinating in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Store in a quart jar (with a lid) and shake it a few times while it marinates.

PEACHES & BURRATA WITH PICKLED SHALLOTS Ralph Kridner, Great Lakes Energy Pickled Shallots: 12 shallots, thinly sliced ²⁄3 cup white wine vinegar 3 tablespoons sugar 3 teaspoons salt 1 serrano chili, minced (optional) Salad: 4 pieces burrata 2 ripe peaches, halved and sliced 2 ripe plums, halved and sliced 8 fresh basil leaves, chiffonaded 12 pickled shallots, plus 1 tablespoon of pickling liquid 2 tablespoons lemon-flavored extra-virgin olive oil • flaky sea salt • freshly ground black pepper 1 lime, zested

To make the pickled shallots, place the sliced shallots in a small jar. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and chili (if using) and bring to a gentle simmer, swirling the pan to help the sugar dissolve. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the shallots and let them cool to room temperature. Store the pickled shallots in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

When ready to serve, place 1 burrata each on the center of four plates.

Arrange the peaches and plums around the burrata. Then place 3 pickled shallots on each plate and sprinkle with the basil. Drizzle lemon oil and 1 tablespoon pickling liquid evenly over the salad.

Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finish by zesting the lime over the salad. Serves 4.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

Moving soon?

Increase your home value with Selling Point: The Fiber Advantage

“Rural” no longer has to mean “disconnected.” For homes in the country with electric service from HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative—and in a few areas that surround our service territory—reliable, high-speed fiber internet from HomeWorks Connect is a powerful tool to increase property value and attract remote workers.

Why Fiber Matters for Your Listing Boosts Property Value

1-Gbps fiber—like the service that HomeWorks Connect offers—can increase a home’s value by up to 3.1%. That’s like adding a fireplace or half bath, without the mess or expense.

Attracts Remote Workers

43% of buyers prioritize highspeed internet when choosing a home. HomeWorks Connect’s fiber internet makes your listing “move-in ready” for professionals, gamers, and families.

HomeWorks Connect also offers transparent pricing that buyers can immediately budget for: •

Essential Experience (250 Mbps): $64.95/month; perfect for small families and streaming

•

Working Warrior (500 Mbps): $89.95/month; ideal for remote workers and video calls

•

Total Techie (1 Gbps): $99.95/month; best for homes with multiple smart devices or gaming

•

Add on Optimized Wi-Fi to any plan for $10/month for the best Wi-Fi experience, parental controls, and network-wide cybersecurity to protect your family

Sign up for HomeWorks Connect!

Visit Join.HomeWorksConnect.org or call 800-668-8413!

Symmetrical Speeds

Unlike cable providers, HomeWorks Connect‘s fiber offers symmetrical upload and download speeds. This means zero lag for Zoom calls, 4k streaming, and cloud backups.

No Contracts No Install Fee Nothing to Lose

Your Board In Action

FUEL MIX REPORT

Meeting in Portland on March 23, your board of directors: •

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In a special open member meeting, unanimously elected for the Cooperative to participate in the Michigan Public Service Commission’s Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) at the state-mandated surcharge of $1.50 per meter per month for the 2026-27 heating season, to allow HomeWorks members to be eligible for any state or federal low-income assistance.

Approved allocation of 2025 margins to HomeWorks members based on their patronage, including $4,784,706 for Tri-County Electric Cooperative and $2,563,116 for Wolverine Power Cooperative.

Unanimously approved staff’s recommendation to delay consideration of a general capital credit retirement until the fourth quarter of 2026.

Authorized an estate capital credit retirement of $143,469 to member estates, discounted to present value.

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Approved the retirement of the remaining balance of $2,172 of unclaimed capital credits from 2020 to donated capital.

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

Reviewed and approved Board Policy 401 - Assignment of Capital Credits, Board Policy 402 - Allocation of Nonoperating Income from Subsidiary, Board Policy 403 - Long-Range Financial Management Plan, and Board Policy 404 - Retirement of Capital Credits, as revised.

Reviewed and approved a minor revision to HomeWorks Bylaw Section 3.4.

Learned there were 72 new members in February.

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

The fuel mix characteristics of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 12/31/25.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source

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

Coal

17.697%

25.848%

Oil

0.296%

0.488%

Gas

22.912%

35.954%

Hydroelectric

0.599%

0.659%

Nuclear

38.814%

24.240%

Renewable Fuels

19.682%

12.811%

Biofuel

0.317%

0.517%

Biomass

0.130%

0.248%

Solar

2.570%

3.585%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.115%

0.128%

Wind

16.310%

7.907%

Wood

0.240%

0.426%

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

Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 18 and June 22 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.

Notice To Members Of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative March 23, 2026, Open Member Meeting Results

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

The HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative Board of Directors, at a special open meeting held March 23, 2026, in accordance with P.A. 167 and P.A. 95, unanimously elected for the Co-op to opt into the Michigan Public Service Commission’s Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) at the state-mandated surcharge of $1.50 per meter per month for the 2026-27 heating season, to allow HomeWorks members to be eligible for any state or federal low-income assistance.

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

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

Your co-op

Regional average*

Access To Rules And Rates

Sulfur Dioxide

0.38

0.56

As a member-customer (member) of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative (Cooperative), the following information is available to you from the Cooperative, upon request:

Carbon Dioxide

621.9

940.9

1. Complete rate schedules; 2. Clear and concise explanation of all rates that the member may be eligible to receive; and 3. Assistance from the Cooperative in determining the most appropriate rate for a member when the member is eligible to receive service under more than one rate.

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

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.36

0.58

High-Level Nuclear Waste

0.0096

0.0060

* Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/25.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

Angeline Boulley

Writing Native Stories Rooted in Michigan

By Emily Haines Lloyd

“Firekeeper’s Daughter” first came to her when she was 18. It grew out of the people, places, and questions she carried with her from the Upper Peninsula and her family history.

“I want Native girls to see themselves as the hero of the story. Native people are still here, living full lives.”

That story stayed with her for decades.

It was not until her 40s, after years of working in Indian education, including serving as Director of the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education, that she finally put it on the page.

When “Firekeeper’s Daughter” was published, it quickly found an audience. The book became a breakout young adult hit and introduced readers to a Native teenage protagonist whose strength comes from loyalty, determination, and community.

Boulley followed with “Warrior Girl Unearthed” and her most recent novel, “Sisters of the Wind.” Across her books, she blends mystery, family, and history, all set in the forests, shorelines, and small towns of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Her stories are set in the present and reflect the lives of Native people today.

E

very place has its own stories.

In Michigan, many of them are tied to the land and to the Native communities that have lived here for generations.

For author Angeline Boulley, those connections are not just background.

They shape everything she writes.

Long before she became an

14 MAY 2026

international bestselling author, her sense of identity and belonging was formed by the Upper Peninsula and her roots in the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

The Long Road to the Page For Boulley, storytelling has always been tied to where she comes from. The idea for her first novel,

“We (Native communities) have rich histories, but we also live in the world as it is now,” Boulley said. “What better way to bring attention to our stories and issues than through a story where you care deeply about the characters?”

Writing Native Girls as Heroes For many years, Native characters were rarely seen in children’s and young adult books. A 2018 study from the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Cooperative Children’s Book Center found that only 1% of books for young readers featured Native characters.

“A lot of people feel like they are not enough of something. When readers tell me they finally feel seen, that means everything to me.”

That gap is something Boulley writes directly against.

Her main characters are Native girls who are curious, determined, and imperfect. They make mistakes. They learn. They move between Indigenous and non-Indigenous worlds while managing family, school, and expectations that don’t always align.

“I want Native girls to see themselves as the hero of the story,” Boulley said.

“Native people are still here, living full lives.”

She often hears from readers who see themselves in her characters for the first time.

“A lot of people feel like they are not enough of something,” she said.

“When readers tell me they finally feel seen, that means everything to me.”

Michigan as a Character Although Boulley’s books are read around the world, they remain firmly set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

“Firekeeper’s Daughter” was named

one of Time magazine’s top 100 young adult novels of all time, but its setting is close to home.

“I have a real connection to Sault Ste. Marie and Sugar Island,” Boulley said.

“Memories of visiting my grandparents, going into local stores that seemed to never change. Those places ground me. And my characters.”

Michigan readers often tell her they feel proud seeing familiar places reflected in her books.

By writing Native stories grounded in real Michigan communities, Boulley pushes back against the idea that Native heritage belongs only in the past. Her characters are not symbols or artifacts. They are present-day Native girls navigating family, school, and identity in places that still exist and still matter.

Her books remind readers that Native stories are not outside Michigan’s story. They are part of it, and they always have been.

To learn more about Angeline Boulley or to purchase her books, visit: angelineboulley.com /angelineboulley/

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

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.

16 MAY 2026

ELECTRICAL SAFETY CROSSWORD PUZZLE 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

May is Electrical Safety Month!

Read the safety tips below to complete the crossword puzzle.

1. ACROSS: Keep all liquids away from _________, like TVs, computers, and gaming consoles.

2. DOWN: Never overload electrical _________. This creates a greater risk of fire.

3. DOWN: Never use electrical _________ that feel warm to the touch or are damaged in any way.

4. ACROSS: Smoke _________ should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home.

5. ACROSS: Don’t run electrical cords under rugs. This creates potential fire _________.

ANSWER KEY

1. electronics 2. outlets 3. cords 4. alarms 5. hazards

APPLY FOR A NO BARRIERS SCHOLARSHIP!

APPLY BY MAY 15 TO BE CONSIDERED!

APPLY BY MAY 15, 2026 FOR IN-PERSON EXPEDITIONS & EXPERIENCES TAKING PLACE JUNE-SEPTEMBER

In-person programs run from June to September

No Barriers Programs Serve:

Learn more & apply: nobarriersusa.org

• People with disabilities • Veterans with disabilities • Youth with disabilities & their families • Family caregivers 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’ multiday 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

Contact us: info@nobarriersusa.org 970-484-3633, ext. 201

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

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 2026 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Sheri Welche, a Midwest Energy & Communications member who correctly identified the photo as the mini Mac at the Clare Welcome Center 634 Mile Marker, 160 US-127.

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

18 MAY 2026

Michigan seasons are unpredictable.

Your comfort and energy bills shouldn't be.

Upgrade your current furnace with a Well-Connect® heat pump and create the most efficient dual-fuel heating and cooling system available.

Unlike an air-source heat pump that uses more energy when it gets colder or hotter outside, a Well-Connect taps into the stable temperature of the earth to deliver consistent performance in every season. Our patented simultaneous operation allows geothermal and your furnace to work together to maximize efficiency, minimize fuel use, and keep your home perfectly comfortable.

No noisy outdoor unit.

No major renovation.

Just a smart upgrade that dramatically lowers heating and cooling costs while increasing year-round comfort.

WELL-CONNECT

EXISTING FURNACE

Stable energy. Predictable costs. Unmatched comfort.

1-833-GEOWELL wellconnectgeo.com MADE IN

MI C

HI

GAN

AVAILABLE 2026 REBATES • $ 2 ,2 50 Co -Op • $ 4,0 0 0 o r mo re MiH ER

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

Join Us At Your

Virtual District Meeting 2026 Meeting Dates: District 1: Monday, May 4 District 2: Tuesday, May 5 District 3: Wednesday, May 6 District 4: Thursday, May 7 District 5: Monday, May 11 District 6: Tuesday, May 12 District 7: Wednesday, May 13 Learn more about your Co-op, plus be entered to win big prizes just for logging on! We can’t wait to “see” you there!

HomeWorks.org/districtmeetings