November/December 2019
MICHIGAN
COUNTRY LINES Cherryland Electric Cooperative
Cherryland Welcomes Tesla To The Fleet
Biggest Co-op Headlines From 2019 Tips For Safe Holiday Lighting
The North Pole Express ALL ABOARD
WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT THROUGH 2019 1
You don’t have to lower the thermostat to control your heating bills. WaterFurnace geothermal systems use the clean, renewable energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. And because WaterFurnace units don’t use any fossil fuels or combustion, the EPA calls it the most environmentally friendly and cost effective way to condition our homes.2 Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to learn how WaterFurnace is good for the environment, your budget and the feeling in your toes. YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Bad Axe B & D Htg (989) 269-5280 bdheating.com
Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com
Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeothermal.com
Hart/Ludington Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com
Indian River M & M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Caro AllTemp Comfort, Inc. (866) 844-HEAT (4328) geo4less.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 comfort1.net/geothermal
Muskegon Kiessel Geothermal Htg & Clg (231) 747-7509 kiesselsgeo.com
Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com Traverse City D & W Mechanical (231) 941-1215 dwgeothermal.com Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 watergeofurnace.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.com
visit us at waterfurnace.com WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. 1. 30% through 2019, 26% through 2020 and 22% through 2021 2. EPA study “Space Conditioning, The Next Frontier” (Report 430-R-93-004)
In This Issue November/December 2019 || Vol. 39, No. 10
michigancountrylines
Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives FEATURED PHOTO FROM
#micoopcommunity
countrylines.com
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Executive Editor: Casey Clark
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Editor: Christine Dorr Design and Production: Karreen Bird
Come share in the splendor of rural Michigan with us
Recipe Editor: Christin McKamey 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 are Robert Kran, Great Lakes Energy, chairman; Tony Anderson, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; and Eric Baker, Wolverine Power Cooperative, secretarytreasurer. Craig Borr is 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 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.
@michigancountrylines michigancountrylines A crystal clear reflection of the Ore Dock in Marquette by @justin_palmer_photography
ON THE COVER All Aboard The North Pole Express! One of the few remaining steam-powered engines in the country, the Pere Marquette 1225, better known as the North Pole Express, shuttles passengers of all generations into an idyllic blast from Christmas past each December.
6 MI CO-OP COMMUNITY The Call Of The Michigan Wild
For these three friends from Escanaba, Michigan, their enthusiasm for the outdoors was their strongest bond. Emily Haines Lloyd
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN Spread Holiday Cheer With Festive Cookie Recipes Christin McKamey & Our Readers
Featured Guest Chef: Enjoy this snow storm soup recipe from Kim Springsdorf, executive director of Steam Railroading Institute. Enter Our Recipe Contest And Win A $50 Bill Credit!
14 FEATURE All Aboard The North Pole Express Multiple generations of families share this unique Michigan experience. Emily Haines Lloyd
18 MI CO-OP COMMUNITY Best of Michigan: Bakeries
Get ready to devour this member-recommended list of Michigan’s best bakeries. Guess Our New Mystery Photo And Win A $50 Bill Credit!
Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation
(Required by U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication Title: Michigan Country Lines. 2. Publication No.: 591-710. 3. Filing date: 10/1/19. 4. Issue frequency: monthly, except August and December. 5. No. of issues published annually: 10. 6. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 7. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 8. Full names and complete mailing address of publisher, editors, and executive editor: Craig Borr, Christine Dorr, Casey Clark, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 9. Owner: Michigan Electric Cooperative Assoc., 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 10. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding one percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. 11. Tax status: Has not been changed. 12. Issue date for circulation data below: Sept. 2019. 13. Extent and nature of circulation: Avg # of copies each issue during preceding 12 mo.
Actual # of copies of single issues published nearest to filing date
A) Total No. of copies ................................ 241,500 ................... 242,882 B) Paid and requested circulation ............ 241,500 ................... 242,882 C) Total paid and requested circulation ... 241,500 ................... 242,882 D) 1) Free distribution by mail .........................188 ...........................155 2) Free distribution outside mail .................920 ...........................887 E) Total free distribution ...............................1,108 ....................... 1,042 F) Total distribution.................................. 222,141 ................... 243,924 G) Copies not distributed ..................................... 0 ...............................0 H) Total ..................................................... 222,141 ................... 243,924 I) Percent paid and/or requested circ. .........98.7% .......................99.7% 16. Publication of statement of ownership: November 2019 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, Editor
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
3
CO-OP NEWS
LEELANAU
BENZIE
GRAND TRAVERSE
MANISTEE
WEXFORD
KALKASKA
Board Of Directors
TOM VAN PELT President 231-386-5234 tvanpelt@cherrylandelectric.coop DAVID SCHWEITZER Senior Vice President 231-883-5860 dschweitzer@cherrylandelectric.coop GABE SCHNEIDER Secretary 517-449-6453 gschneider@cherrylandelectric.coop MELINDA LAUTNER Treasurer 231-947-2509 mlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop TERRY LAUTNER Director 231-946-4623 tlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop JOHN OLSON Director 231-938-1228 jolson@cherrylandelectric.coop JON ZICKERT Director 231-631-1337 jzickert@cherrylandelectric.coop GENERAL MANAGER Tony Anderson CO-OP EDITORS Rachel Johnson Rob Marsh
OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. TELEPHONE NUMBERS 231-486-9200 or 1-800-442-8616 (Mich.) ADDRESS P.O. Box 298, Grawn, MI 49637 WEBSITE cherrylandelectric.coop PAY STATION Cherryland Electric Cooperative office 5930 U.S. 31 South, Grawn MI, 49637 Cherryland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Follow us on Facebook. facebook.com/cherrylandelectriccoop Follow us on Instagram. @cherrylandec
4 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
Cherryland Retires $2.4 Million To Members In December
Cherryland’s board voted to retire approximately $2.4 million in capital credits to the membership this December. This amount is a direct passthrough of the retirement Cherryland will receive from its power supplier, Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, that same month. The amount retired to each member can be found on the December billing statements.
Cherryland Cares Awards $5,350 To Two Nonprofits
At their third-quarter board meeting, the Cherryland Cares board awarded grants to Acme Christian Thrift Store & Food Pantry and Bethany Christian Services. Cherryland Cares has awarded nearly $30,000 in grants to area nonprofit agencies this year. The Cherryland Cares board is comprised of five volunteer Cherryland members. The funds distributed by Cherryland Cares are a result of members electing to round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar. If you are an area nonprofit agency seeking financial help, fourth-quarter grant applications are due Friday, Dec. 6. For more information, please call Shannon Mattson at 231-486-9234 or email at smattson@cherrylandelectric.coop.
Cherryland Office Closed Over Holidays
In observance of the holidays, the Cherryland office will be closed on the following dates: Thursday, Nov. 28, and Friday, Nov. 29, for Thanksgiving Tuesday, Dec. 24, and Wednesday, Dec. 25, for Christmas Tuesday, Dec. 31, and Wednesday, Jan. 1, for New Year’s Line crews are on call to respond to any outages or emergencies. You can report your outage through SmartHub or by calling us at 231-486-9200.
Members May Dispose Christmas Trees At Cherryland
Cherryland members are reminded that Christmas trees can be discarded at Cherryland’s office in Grawn. Trees can be dropped off on the right side of the Cherryland parking lot as you are driving in, just beyond where the two parking lots meet. This service is offered free to co-op members.
Co-op Connections Card Benefits To Expire January 1
As of January 1, 2020, Cherryland members will no longer be able to use the Touchstone Energy Co-op Connections Card to receive discounts on products and services from participating businesses, including pharmacies.
Last Chance To Receive Energy Efficiency Rebates For 2019
Members interested in making energy efficiency upgrades in their homes or businesses must have the measures purchased and installed prior to Dec. 31 to receive a rebate from the co-op. Upgrades performed after Dec. 31 are not eligible for 2019 rebates. If you have questions regarding rebates, visit our website or contact Tammy Haworth at 231-486-9261 or thaworth@cherrylandelectric.coop.
All-Electric Mentality Tony Anderson, General Manager
“
We will be loud and proud as we attempt to generate conversation and interest in the coming generations of EVs from all manufacturers.
”
B
eneficial electrification is a new term in the electric industry. It refers to the replacement of direct fossil fuel use (e.g., propane, heating oil, gasoline) with electricity in a way that reduces overall emissions and energy costs. While there are many such opportunities within a home or business, I think electric vehicles are gradually moving to the top of the beneficial electrification list. At Cherryland, we have had an all-electric Chevrolet Bolt in our vehicle pool for a couple of years now. Recently, with the retirement of an aging gas-powered vehicle, we decided to put the Bolt into regular daily use by assigning it to the Members Services Department. To replace the Bolt in our vehicle pool, we looked at other available electric vehicles (EVs) and found that the Tesla Model 3 was within our budget parameters. So, we leased an all-wheeldrive version with a long-range (400+ miles) battery system. While Tesla doesn’t produce cars in Michigan, its vehicles are built in the United States. Tesla models are also at the top of the list when it comes to the EVs our members are asking about. Having one in our vehicle pool, which is utilized by many employees, will be a great way to answer these questions with firsthand experience in all types of weather conditions. Our longest trips for meetings and legislative issues take us to Lansing and Grand Rapids. Tesla
has a charging infrastructure that will allow us to use the car without a worry of where we can charge it. The statewide charging infrastructure for the Chevrolet Bolt is still a work in progress, which makes it better suited to local daily driving. You will soon see the car out and about, wrapped in Cherryland red. We will be loud and proud as we attempt to generate conversation about and interest in the coming generations of EVs from all manufacturers. After the obvious environmental benefits of driving without fossil fuels and being a go-to resource on new technology, our goal at your cooperative is also to increase our energy sales. When sales go up, we have more kilowatt-hours to spread our costs over. This helps keep costs down for every member. As an added bonus, Cherryland’s electricity is 62% carbon-free. This means charging your EV can improve the air quality, while the added meter spin also helps keep prices stable. EV options will continue to grow. In coming years, you will see more and more of them in the fleet of red vehicles running around our service territory. We may be on the very early end of this new era, but we are going to embrace the change and help lead the way for as long as it takes. I am hopeful that by doubling the EVs in our fleet today, it will open the door for more members to have an allelectric mindset in their homes and garages.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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The Call Of The
Michigan Wild By Emily Haines Lloyd
I
n the Midwest, hunting and fishing are more than just seasons, they are often traditions. For a group of childhood friends from Escanaba in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, it’s a bit of a calling. Mike Aho, Doug Latvala, and Ben Irving grew up playing hockey together, a popular pastime in Escanaba. Aho’s and Irving’s dads also played together in a bluegrass band. However, as the three friends, now grown with families of their own, sit around over beers, their love of the outdoors is possibly their strongest bond. “It seems like everyone in the U.P. has a camp,” said Irving. “Itʻs where you go on the weekends to either hunt, fish or prepare for hunting and fishing season.” “And drink beer,” adds Latvala. The three laugh and it only takes a moment to realize that Mother Nature nurtures more than the wildlife, it nurtures lifelong friendships. How deep does the love of camp go? Latvala was born on the opening day of deer hunting season and, when his mother went into labor, someone had to head out to the
Get your own Michigan Wild hat from etsy.com/MichiganWild
woods to find Latvala’s dad. As family lore goes, dad hung out with his newborn for a few hours and actually went back out to camp. So, it's fair to say, the love goes deep. So deep, the trio still spends a great deal of time out in nature together, even though they are separated by significant distances—Latvala lives in Marquette, Aho in the Metro Detroit area, and Irving all the way out in Green Bay, Wisconsin. “The U.P. is more than a location, it’s a way of life,” said Aho. “The outdoors is ingrained into our families. Along the way, we decided to start sharing our photos and experiences on Instagram and called it Michigan Wild (@MichiganWild).” When the guys started Michigan Wild, it was simply a hashtag, but it’s caught on quickly, with more than 9,600 followers who now tag their outdoor adventures similarly. Michigan Wild isn’t a business (although you can buy a cool ball cap with their logo on it), it’s more of a movement. “I live in a cul-de-sac community,” explains Irving. “And the excitement my son has when I tell him we’re going to go on a hike is amazing. I don’t want him to lose his connection to the outdoors. I think we just want to remind people how wonderful and simple it is out there.” “Yeah, that’s it. Camp is simple,” adds Aho. “After being tied down by the grind of work, you wake up at camp, make coffee, talk a little and head out. When you come back, you’re excited to hear everyone’s stories. If someone in a neighboring camp brings in a deer, everyone goes to help. It’s basic hunter/gatherer culture and you’re reliving that. But, with a sauna.”
Photo courtesy of Jim Behymer
The guys laugh again. Each of the men makes it clear that they enjoy the hunting and utilizing the venison from deer season throughout the year, but it’s the community and sheer awe of the wilderness that keeps them connected. One look at some of their most frequent hashtags nods heavily toward that— #getoutdoors #whatgetsyououtdoors #itsinmynature. “A lot of camps are dying out,” said Latvala. “We want to make sure our kids get to have some of these experiences that have literally made us who we are. So, if we can build a little enthusiasm or interest around all the amazing things the Michigan wilderness has to offer, then that’s what we want to do.” Their big takeaway is to not be intimidated by wilderness. “Ask if you have questions,” said Latvala. “Everyone out there is happy to see other faces. Ask the group you see in the forest or ask guys like us online. We hope to encourage you to get out there and enjoy the Michigan wild.”
@michigancountrylines + @michiganwild Usher in opening day with the Michigan Wild crew. Get behindthe-scenes footage of their hunting prep and first day in the woods on the @michigancountrylines Instagram account, Nov. 14 & 15.
While the Michigan Wild guys are the first to encourage anyone to do things their own way, a few decades in the woods has taught them a tip or two.
Venison Cudighi
This spicy Italian sausage is an Upper Peninsula staple, and if you’re like the guys from Michigan Wild, you enjoy utilizing your own venison and reliving memories from deer camp. Doug Latvala shares his favorite Cudighi recipe. 5 5 2 3 1 1 1 ½
pounds venison pounds pork shoulder teaspoons black pepper tablespoons salt teaspoon cinnamon teaspoon nutmeg teaspoon allspice teaspoon clove
½ teaspoon mace ½ teaspoon ginger 1–3 teaspoon(s) red pepper flakes (depending on heat desired) 1 cup Paisano sweet red wine 1 cup water
Grind and mix pork and venison together. Hand mix all seasonings, red wine, and water ingredients with the meat mixture. Let stand in refrigerator for 24–48 hours to marinate. Package as patties, links or bulk, and freeze or use within three days. Serving suggestion: Make patties and pan fry Cudighi, melting mozzarella cheese over the top. In a separate pan, sauté green peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Warm up your favorite pizza sauce. Layer patty, sauce and vegetables on your favorite type of bun and enjoy!
• Don’t be afraid to change your tactics: keep the hunt fun. • Set yourself up so you are ready to shoot. The pain of a beautiful buck walking by without getting off a shot will sting for a while. • When using binoculars, squeeze them to the brim of your hat for more stability.
• Never pass up a deer on the first day that you’d be happy to have on the last day. • Start a deer hunting tradition with your family or friends. It keeps the momentum and the memories going. Simply planning the trip over email or text will be a little five-minute vacation in your day. MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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READ ALL ABOUT IT
Co-op Headlines From 2019
Board Votes To Triple Number Of Member Input Sessions
A Members Participate In Recordbreaking Numbers At The Annual Meeting And In Board Election
T
he co-op’s board of directors’ election and Annual Meeting saw significant increases in member participation this year.
Following the board election period, which runs from May 1 through the day of our Annual Meeting in June, Cherryland saw a record-breaking 55% increase in voting over the previous year. That included members who voted online, by mail, and in-person at the Annual Meeting. The co-op also saw an increase of over 12% in attendance at the Annual Meeting, where members enjoyed bowling, bucket truck rides, food, arcade games, and the business meeting (for free!) at Incredible Mo’s in Grawn.
8 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
t its September board meeting, the Cherryland board of directors voted to expand the number of member input sessions during board meetings from quarterly to monthly. Historically, members were welcome to give comments at the beginning of board meetings in March, June, September, and December. Now, members have that opportunity during any regularly scheduled board meeting. Attendance at the board meeting is allowed for the public input portion of the meeting only. Members are asked to come to the lobby before the meeting begins and request to speak to the board. Members are also asked to keep the length of their comments to five minutes or less.
Cherryland Makes Historic Commitment To Habitat For Humanity
I
n June, the Cherryland board of directors announced that it is making a three-year commitment of $100,000 annually to Habitat for Humanity– Grand Traverse Region. Funds will be used for programs aimed at repairing low-income homes in need of weatherization improvements in the Grand Traverse region. After assessing homes in its service territory, the co-op estimates that approximately 4% are in need of weatherization upgrades to meet basic energy efficiency standards. Another 4% are in desperate need of upgrades just to shelter the occupants from the elements. This could be as many as 3,000 homes. Habitat for Humanity will pilot the Priority Home Repair program in Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Kalkaska counties beginning in 2020. They will target both mobile and stickbuilt homes in need of critical roof, insulation, window, and door repairs. Learn more at www.habitatgtr.org/ home-repair.
Co-op Incentivizes Electric Vehicle Adoption With One-of-a-Kind Rebate Program
T
hroughout 2019, Cherryland offered large rebates to members for the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging stations. The
offers included a $2,000 rebate on the purchase of qualified all-electric vehicles, as well as rebates ranging from $500 to $1,000 for the purchase of residential and commercial EV charging stations. As one of the few utilities in the nation offering this type of incentive, the co-op’s goal was to encourage EV adoption in the region. As of September, the co-op helped members with the purchase of six EVs and 10 EV charging stations.
T Cherryland’s Industry-Leading Energy Portfolio Gets Even Cleaner
he co-op’s energy portfolio received a considerable carbon-free bump in 2019. The carbon-free portion of the cooperative’s fuel mix increased from 56% to 62% of its total power supply portfolio. This mix includes traditional renewable resources (wind, solar, hydroelectric, etc.), as well as nuclear. To date, Cherryland powers area homes and businesses with the largest amount of carbon-free energy in the Grand Traverse region. This was achieved while keeping rates stable.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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Christmas Cookies Spread holiday cheer with these festive cookie recipes. Photos by Robert Bruce Photography Recipes Submitted By MCL Readers And Tested By Recipe Editor Christin McKamey
Winning Recipe!
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies Benjamin and Jessica Bain, HomeWorks Tri-County ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 1 egg 2 teaspoons vanilla
1¾ ¼ ½ 1 1
cups all-purpose flour teaspoon salt teaspoon baking soda cup dried cranberries cup white chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Add egg and vanilla and mix well. Add flour, salt, and baking soda and mix well. Add cranberries and white chocolate chips and stir to combine. Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly browned. Let cool slightly, then transfer to cooling racks.
Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos
10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
Aunt Neenee’s Cream Cheese Cookies Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy 1 cup butter, softened 3 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup sugar
1 1 2½ •
egg teaspoon vanilla cups flour dash of salt
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease cookie sheet. In a large bowl, mix the butter, cream cheese and sugar. Add the egg and vanilla; beat well. Stir in flour and dash of salt until combined. Roll into 1-inch balls. Roll in red and green sugar. Bake 12—15 minutes.
featured
GUEST CHEF
Grandma Huhn’s Spice Cookies Sharon Hoffman, HomeWorks Tri-County
1 cup brown sugar 1 cup white sugar 1 cup lard (do not substitute oil or Crisco) 3 eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup sour cream 1½ tablespoons nutmeg 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1 tablespoon allspice 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 teaspoon baking soda 2½ teaspoons baking powder 6½ cups flour
This soup recipe from Kim Springsdorf, executive director of Steam Railroading Institute, can be made with whatever yummy things you have in the refrigerator. Be creative, this is a soup that is never the same. Let it simmer and enjoy!
Cream sugars and lard together. Mix in the remaining ingredients, adding the flour last. You can place dough in floured freezer bags and freeze for two weeks to let the spices intensify, or you can immediately roll out, cut and bake at 350 degrees F for 7—10 minutes.
Snow Storm Soup
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Mary Ellen Wynes, HomeWorks Tri-County ¾ 1 2 4 2 2 2 ½ 1
cup vegetable oil cup cocoa powder cups sugar eggs teaspoons vanilla cups flour teaspoons baking powder teaspoon salt cup confectioners sugar
Mix oil, cocoa powder and sugar. Blend in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and remaining dry ingredients. Chill overnight. Drop teaspoonfuls of dough into confectioners sugar. Roll in the sugar and form into balls. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. Do not overbake.
Savory Cherries: due December 1 Chili Cook Off: due January 1 Submit your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $50 bill credit and have your recipe featured in Country Lines with a photo and a video. Go to micoopkitchen.com for more information and to register.
Enter to win a
$50
energy bill credit!
1 pound bacon 2 pounds ground beef, stew meat or both 1 onion, finely diced 4 ribs of celery, sliced thin 2 carrots, halved and sliced 6–8 whole garlic cloves, minced 4 cups beef broth 1 lb. potatoes, baked, cooled and diced 2 cups fresh mushrooms 1 can diced tomatoes 2 cups kidney or great northern beans 4 tablespoons flour • salt, fresh ground pepper, garlic powder, cumin and chili powder to taste • optional: olive oil, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese and whipping cream Cook bacon and beef in soup stockpot. Set aside. Sauté vegetables in the grease, until tender. Add olive oil if needed. Add flour to vegetables and mix until thick. Slowly add broth and bring to a boil to thicken. Add remaining ingredients and simmer on low for approximately 3 hours——be sure to stir often. The soup is even better the next day! Add shredded Parmesan cheese, cream cheese or heavy whipping cream at the end of your cook time for a creamy finish. Serving suggestion: For individual servings, you can add toasted bread, top with cheese and put soup bowls under the broiler just long enough to melt the cheese. The soup is best served with 12 inches of snow and a bonfire in the great outdoors! Read the full story about the Steam Railroading Institute on page 14, and find this recipe and others at micoopkitchen.com. MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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Your Board In Action September Board Meeting • The board voted to retire $2.4 million in capital credits to the membership this December. This amount is a direct passthrough of the retirement Cherryland will receive from its power supplier, Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, that same month. • A representative from Habitat for Humanity– Grand Traverse region updated the board on the progress of the Priority Home Repair program. The Priority Home Repair program will target both mobile and stick-built homes in need of critical roof, insulation, window, and door repairs in Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Kalkaska counties beginning in 2020. • The board discussed the cooperative’s recent acquisition of a Tesla Model 3 as its newest pool vehicle. This will be the second all-electric vehicle Cherryland has leased for its fleet. Members have the opportunity to provide direct input to the board at the beginning of any regularly scheduled board meeting. Attendance at the board meeting is allowed for the public input portion of the meeting only.
Cherryland Electric Cooperative NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT On Aug. 1, 2019, Cherryland Electric Cooperative (“Cherryland”) filed an Energy Waste Reduction Plan (“EWRP”) to comply with 2008 PA 295, as amended, MCL 460.1001, et seq., in Case No. U-20381. Any interested person may review the filed EWRP on the MPSC website under Case No. U-20381 at www.michigan.gov/ mpscedockets, at Cherryland’s office, located at 5930 US 31, Grawn, MI 49637, or at the office of the Commission’s Executive Secretary, 4300 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing, MI 48917. Written and electronic comments may be filed with the Commission and must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Dec. 30, 2019. Written comments should be sent to Executive Secretary, Michigan Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 30221, Lansing, MI 48909, with a copy mailed to Cherryland Electric Cooperative. Electronic comments may be emailed to mpscedockets@michigan.gov. All comments should reference Case No. U-20381. Comments received in this matter will become public information, posted on the Commission’s website, and subject to disclosure. The Commission will review the EWRP together with any filed comments and provide a response indicating any revisions that should be made. If the Commission suggests revisions, Cherryland may file a revised EWRP. A Commission order will be issued on or before the 90th day following the publication of the notice.
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NEW TV?
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CLAIM YOUR REBATE! cherrylandelectric.coop
Benefits of Electric Vehicles Have you considered going electric for your next car? Electric vehicles (EVs) are hitting the road at a wide range of price points because the costs and benefits are too hard to pass up.
Go Further
Energy Efficient
EVs travel well over 100 miles per charge, with some models reaching over 300 miles per charge.
Electric motors are more efficient at powering a vehicle. EVs don’t use energy while at rest and re-capture it when braking.
Top Performance
No Emissions
Electric motors are quieter, smoother, and zippier than gasoline-powered engines.
EVs have no exhaust or emissions. And with Cherryland’s carbon-free energy portfolio, EV charging is cleaner than ever.
Less Maintenance With fewer moving parts to maintain and fluids to change, EVs require significantly less maintenance.
Visit cherrylandelectric.coop/ev to learn more.
Cheaper to Drive It costs less than half as much to travel the same distance in an electricity-powered vehicle than a gaspowered vehicle.
The North Pole Express ALL ABOARD
By Emily Haines Lloyd Photos courtesy of Steam Railroading Institute Staff Photographers Scott Shields, Matt Churcott, George Dines and Matthew Malkiewicz
I
f you thought Christmas arrived by a reindeer-drawn sleigh, you haven’t felt the ground shake or seen the smiling faces of eager passengers as The North Pole Express comes chugging into the Owosso train platform outside the Steam Railroading Institute. The Pere Marquette 1225 (the North Pole Express) is one of the few steam-powered train engines in the country still operating today. Every winter it transforms into an
idyllic blast from the past as passengers have their tickets punched by a volunteer conductor. The commitment of nearly 100 volunteers per trip make it possible for passengers to experience the journey from Owosso to Ashley’s Country Christmas in Ashley, Michigan. Travelers, some wrapped up cozily in their pajamas, enjoy carol singers, card games, and if they’ve been a good girl or boy, a glimpse of Santa once they arrive in Ashley. Hot cocoa and snacks are served along with a healthy dose of nostalgia. “It gets me every time,” said Kimberly Springsdorf, executive director of Steam Railroading Institute (SRI). “Watching the faces of the passengers—multiple generations of families sharing this unique experience together, their smiles and laughter—it’s magical.” The magic that is all around today’s train travel is deeply rooted in nostalgia surrounding trains in the United States. What was once a powerhouse industry of
“Watching the faces of the passengers—multiple generations of families sharing this unique experience together, their smiles and laughter—
its’ maical. ”
building and trade has become something quaint, which is an odd word for mammoth engines like the Pere Marquette 1225, which is 16-feet high, 100-feet long and weighs over 400 tons.
A group of engineering students from Michigan State University formed the MSU Railroad Club fifty years ago with the challenge to see the engine, which was a static display on campus, run again. Their charge was taken up by the Steam Railroading Institute when the 1225 was moved to Owosso. In addition to continuing restoration of the engine, SRI strives to educate the public about steam-era railroading in Michigan and the Great Lakes region. Its focus includes the preservation of the skills and technology for maintain steam locomotives by operating steam-era equipment and providing the experience of steam locomotives in operation. The Pere Marquette 1225 stays in working condition through ticket sales from mainline excursions, special events, demonstrations, and tours, as well as individual and corporate donations. “You can’t imagine the time, effort and investment it takes to maintain 1225,” said Springsdorf. “When a part breaks on this engine, you don’t just run down to a shop. You either have to borrow it or build it. From absolutely every aspect, running this engine is a labor of love.”
Love is exactly what you see and hear from the train travelers who plan months in advance to take one of the 22 North Pole Express trips the Steam Railroading Institute offers annually. A variety of other excursions across Michigan, including fall color tours, hobo camp, and an opportunity to run the 1225, are offered by SRI. Tickets sell out quickly, but keep your eyes peeled for a Christmas miracle and a few last-minute seats that may be available. All tour dates are announced in the spring. Visit michigansteamtrain.com to learn more or call 989-725-9464, and fi nd them on Facebook and Instagram, too.
The Maic of
The Moies When moviemakers were producing the now iconic “The Polar Express” starring Tom Hanks, Hollywood crews took a trip to Michigan to study none other than the Pere Marquette 1225. The blueprints from 1225 were used as the prototype for “The Polar Express” and even the sounds of the chugging engine and the whistle were recorded to bring the beloved movie train to life.
Photo Contest
Most votes on Facebook!
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Ugly Christmas Sweaters 1. “ Goodwill specials! No doctoring required!” by Erika Girven 2. “ Fa la la la llama” by Laurie Johnston 3. “ Ugly sweater family fun!” by Lisa Metz 4. “ A Christmas tree and its star” by Jason Rice
16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
Submit Your “Around The World” Photos!
Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our Facebook contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines along with some of our other favorites.
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Enter to win a
$200
energy bill credit!
Our November theme is Around The World. Photos can be submitted through November 20 to be featured in our February 2020 issue.
Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit!
To enter the contest, visit facebook.com/cherrylandelectriccoop and click “Photo Contest” from the menu tabs. If you’re not on Facebook, that’s okay. You can also enter the contest at cherrylandelectric.coop/photo-contest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2020, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your December 2020 bill.
SAFE DÉCOR FOR A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON It’s almost time to deck those halls! Statistics show that home fires and electrical accidents typically increase during winter months, so keep these holiday lighting tips in mind for a safe holiday season.
Fuel Mix Report The fuel mix characteristics of Cherryland Electric Cooperative as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 06/30/19.
Comparison Of Fuel Sources Used Regional average fuel mix used Your co-op’s fuel mix
Fuel Source
Carefully inspect all electrical decorations before you use them. Cracked or damaged sockets and/or loose or exposed wires can cause serious shock or start a fire.
Consider purchasing LED lights, which use less energy and run cooler than traditional incandescent lights.
Coal 25.67% Oil
45.48%
0.18%
0.38%
Gas 13.33%
20.20%
Hydroelectric
1.99%
0.95%
Nuclear 42.45%
26.62%
Renewable Fuels 16.38%
6.37%
Biofuel
0.40%
0.91%
Biomass
0.19%
0.49%
Solar
0.35%
0.13%
Solid Waste Incineration
0.10%
0.04%
Wind
15.12%
4.31%
Wood
0.22%
0.49%
NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas; and wind includes a long-term renewable purchase power contract in Wolverine’s mix.
Never mount or support light strings in a way that might damage the cord’s insulation.
Make sure that cords are not pinched in doors, windows or under heavy furniture, which could damage the cord’s insulation.
Always unplug electrical decorations before replacing bulbs or fuses.
Your Co-op’s Fuel Mix
Regional Average Fuel Mix
Emissions And Waste Comparison lbs/MWh
Type Of Emission/Waste
Turn off all indoor and outdoor electrical decorations before leaving home or going to sleep.
Your Co-op
Regional Average*
Sulfur Dioxide
1.1
2.4
Carbon Dioxide
968.6
1,916.0
0.6
1.3
0.0096
0.0060
Oxides of Nitrogen High-level Nuclear Waste
*Regional average information was obtained from MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 06/30/19. Cherryland purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17
Guess this photo and enter to win a
$50
energy bill credit!
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Best Bakeries Where In Michigan Is This? Identify the correct location of the photo above by November 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $50 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com or send by mail to: Country Lines Mystery Photo, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933. Include the name on your account, address, phone number and the name of your co-op. Our Mystery Photo Contest winner from the September issue is Marlene Moreno, a Cherryland Electric Cooperative member, who correctly identified the photo as Cherry Point Farm & Market in Shelby. The photo shows the arbors around the central garden and the lavender labyrinth to the outside of the arbors. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September and November/December.
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Great Lakes Bakery and Antiques Mall, Muskegon Sandi Hillis makes the best cakes ever with all-natural ingredients and even gluten-free options (but you’d never guess!) Jennifer Sylvester, Great Lakes Energy Jamsen’s Fish Market and Bakery, Copper Harbor My favorite Michigan bakery, Jamsen’s staff are a hoot and make some of the best pastries in the Keweenaw. “Gotta have it” items include the cheddar, bacon and chive scone and the thimbleberry frosted donuts. Nathan Miller, Ontonagon REA
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Boyne City Bakery, Boyne City Boyne City Bakery is the BEST French bakery, in the U.S. Each time I go into this bakery I feel like I’m stepping back into a French bakery in France from the delicious pastries and breads, to the French-speaking baker, to the polite employees, and the French-themed decor and ambiance. Go today and enjoy a “little piece of French heaven”! Evelyn Howell, Great Lakes Energy
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Sunset Acres Bakery, Charlotte Heavenly angel food cakes, melt in your mouth molasses cookies, rich rhubarb squares and so much more. Everything from Sunset Acres Bakery is beyond good, it’s delicious!! Robin Musselman, HomeWorks Tri-County
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Tecumseh Bread and Pastry, Tecumseh This is a bakery owned by a husband and wife team that bakes fresh each morning and mills their own flours at night. They produce wonderful coffeecakes, cookies, bread, and pies. I always take something from their store to family out of town for my “made in Michigan” gift. Carol Kruse, Midwest Energy & Communications
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Goodale’s Bakery, Grayling The best quality ingredients mixed with decades of experience and served by the most helpful staff guarantees the best baked goods you’ll ever find. Alan Riegel, Great Lakes Energy
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Flour Pot Bakery, Elk Rapids Flour Pot has wonderful pastries, muffins, and cookies. Around Fat Tuesday in February, they make hundreds of paczki (a filled donut) that are scrumptious! Becky Granger, Great Lakes Energy
Photo by Susan Luter
18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019
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Satisfy your sweet tooth with these member-recommended bakeries throughout Michigan.
Bay Bread Co., Traverse City A husband-and-wife-owned team bakes over 40 kinds of delicious artisan loaves of bread and sweets. Stacey Wilcox, Cherryland Electric Cooperative
September 2019
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Stephenson Bakery, Inc., Menominee This is a real bakery with perfect sweet creations—— awesome doughnuts and friendly, attentive staff. Brenda Gustafson, Alger Delta
Best of Michigan UP NEXT! Chocolatiers: Tell us about your favorite places for melt-in-your-mouth chocolates. Submit your favorites at countrylines.com under the MI Co-op Community tab by November 25, and this indulgent list will be published in the February issue.
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Capital Credit It’s the most wonderful time of the year to give you capital credits.
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Take a look at your December bill under Capital Credits and see how much money you got this year. Learn about capital credits and other cooperative beneďŹ ts at CherrylandElectric.coop
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