Nove/Dec 2021 PIE&G

November/December 2021

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

O C HR ISTMAS TREE Michigan’s Unsuspecting Big Business

New Headquarters Is Now Open

2020 Communities First Fund Annual Report

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 26% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT THROUGH 2022

Not hearing is believing.

WaterFurnace doesn’t think you should hear your furnace and A/C more than you feel its heat and air.

You know when a traditional HVAC system is on. Stop and listen. Is the burner turning on? Are the blower and fan running? Is air blasting through your vents? With geothermal, those tell-tale signs are eliminated, because sound from the system is barely noticeable.

As a result, you get comfortable, consistent heating and cooling—and none of the noise.

With WaterFurnace, silence is golden.

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

Contact Your Local WaterFurnace Dealer Bad Axe/Cass City Thumb Clg & Htg (855) 206-5457 thumbcooling andheating.com Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmich geothermal.com Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com

Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com Indian River M & M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com

Mancelona Top Notch Htg, Clg, & Geothermal (231) 350-8052 topnotchheatandair.com Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 aireserv.com/ southern-michigan Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com

Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com

Traverse City D & W Mechanical (231) 941-1215 dwgeothermal.com

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

Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 watergeofurnace.com

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com

The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

Contents Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives

countrylines.com

November/December 2021 Vol. 41, No. 10

/michigancountrylines

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin McKamey COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association

/michigancountrylines

6 ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Help is available for Michiganders struggling to pay their energy bills.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN Pressure Cooking: Turn the menu planning pressure off with these delicious Instant Pot meals.

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.

14 O CHRISTMAS TREE Behind the scenes at Michigan Christmas tree farms: The year-round business of producing a seasonal staple.

Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS.

Association Officers: Robert Kran, Great Lakes Energy, chairman; Tony Anderson, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Eric Baker, Wolverine Power Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, president and CEO.

18 GUEST COLUMN More Than Just a Sports Jersey: How one Alger Delta member's effort and patience helped create a moment he'll never forget.

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.

Be featured!

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

(Required by U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication: Michigan Country Lines. 2. Publication No.: 591-710. 3. Filing date: 10/1/21.

4. Issue frequency: monthly, except Aug. and Dec. 5. No. of issues published annually: 10. 6. Complete mailing address of office of publication: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 7. Complete mailing address of headquarters 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 1% 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: Sept. 2021. 13. Extent and nature of circulation: Avg # of copies Actual # of copies of single issues each issue during preceding 12 mo. published nearest to filing date A) B) C) D) E) F) G) H) I)

Total No. of copies................................. 243,264 ...................... 243,312 Paid and requested circulation ............ 243,264 ...................... 242,882 Total paid and requested circulation ... 243,264 ...................... 242,882 1) Free distribution by mail.......................... 160 .............................. 160 2) Free distribution outside mail ................. 809 .............................. 887 Total free distribution ................................... 969 ...........................1,047 Total distribution................................... 244,233 ...................... 244,359 Copies not distributed.......................................0 ...................................0 Total ....................................................... 244,233 ...................... 244,359 Percent paid and/or requested circ............. 98.7 .......................... 99.7%

16. Publication of statement of ownership: November 2021 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, editor

Use #micoopcommunity for a chance to be featured here and on our Instagram account.

#micoopcommunity

Autumn leaves are proof that change can be beautiful.

Hanna Wescott

MI CO-OP COMMUNITY To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community

RECIPE CONTEST Win a $50 bill credit!

Up Next: Sweet Treats, due Dec. 1; Italian, due Jan. 1 Submit your recipe at micoopkitchen.com, or send it via email (include your full name and co-op) to recipes@countrylines.com.

GUEST COLUMN Win $150 for stories published!

Submit your fondest memories and stories at countrylines.com/ community.

MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $50 bill credit!

Enter a drawing to identify the correct location of the photo.

See page 18.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

3

pieg.com

PSCR Factor To Increase

/PIEGCooperative/

Tom Sobeck, President & CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Charles Arbour, Treasurer 23899 M32 S, Hillman MI 49746 989-657-4358 • Term Expires: 2023 Allan Berg, Chairman 8400 Lost Lake Rd., Hawks, MI 49743 989-734-0044 • Term Expires 2023 Sandy Borowicz, Secretary 5341 Carlson Rd.,Cheboygan, MI 49721 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2021 John Brown, Vice-Chairman 21 W. Devereaux Lake Rd., Indian River, MI 49749 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2023 Sally Knopf 1849 W. 638 Hwy., Rogers City, MI 49779 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2021 Kurt Krajniak 7630 Wallace Rd., Alpena, MI 49707 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2022 Brentt Lucas 15841 Carr Rd., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2022 Daryl Peterson P.O. Box 54, Hillman, MI 49746 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2021 Raymond Wozniak 6737 State St., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-2498 • Term Expires 2022 President & CEO: Thomas J. Sobeck tsobeck@pieg.com Communications Director/Co-op Editor: Mairè Chagnon-Hazelman Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 State Street (M-211), Onaway, MI 49765

Business Office & Billing: 989-733-8515 Toll-Free: 800-423-6634 Gas Emergency Toll-Free: 800-655-8565

PIE&G natural gas rates and charges are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

4 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

I

t has been fun writing this column for the past year, as there has been considerable positive activity at your cooperative.

We’ve completed our new headquarters building and created a new fiber division, PIE&G Connect, just to name a couple.

These “good news” events are always easy to talk about, but this month’s column provides one of those life lessons we all experience. Just when all seems right with the world, something usually comes along to remind us that it’s not always “good news” that we get to talk about. Today that “something” is the energy supply rate on your electric bill.

This rate is based on our cost to purchase the electricity that we sell to you. Over the past several years, six of the last seven, you may have noticed a negative billing component on your electric bill that reduced the amount you paid for electricity. It’s called the Power Supply Cost Recovery (PSCR) Factor and is calculated based on our expected annual energy costs from our supplier, Wolverine Power Cooperative.

Wolverine has done an outstanding job over the past several years keeping our energy cost low, and as a result, we’ve been able to keep the PSCR Factor negative. Unfortunately, that is not the case for 2022, as our PSCR Factor will increase from the current negative $0.00439/kWh to a positive $0.00762/ kWh. That is an increase of 1.201 cents per

kilowatt-hour and it will become effective Feb. 1, 2022. I’d like to say that the increase comes as a surprise, but it really doesn’t. Nationally, electricity costs are experiencing pressure caused by several factors, and we are not any different. The demand for cleaner energy has led to a greater reliance on natural gas and a move away from coal as a fuel source for electric generation. This means that, when there is an increase in the cost of natural gas, the cost of electricity goes up as well. As our industry shifts to more generation from natural gas and other cleaner fuel sources, the price of electricity will continue to be impacted. Please don’t mistake that for a political statement; it is just a matter of economics. Unfortunately, energy costs are entering a more volatile period, which means it will be harder to predict long-term costs, and further increases in the cost of producing energy are to be expected.

Wolverine takes its mission as seriously as we do here at PIE&G. To that end, we will continue to work together on ways to make your energy more affordable and develop programs to help you reduce your energy consumption and costs. Look for more energy efficiency programs sponsored by PIE&G soon.

Another year has flown by, and this is my last column before the holidays. On that note, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy, and prosperous new year!

Your Board In Action At its most recent meetings, the PIE&G Board of Directors: • Approved the 2022 General Plant Expenditures Budget in the amount of $1,401,800.00.

• Amended the 2021 General Plant Expenditures Budget in the amount of $187,000.

• Approved several procedural Bylaw amendments.

• Approved an amendment to Board Policy 204 — Financial Policy, to facilitate short-term borrowing for the Fiber-to-the-Home project.

• Approved the continuation of the Energy Optimization/Energy Waste Reduction (EO/EWR) program through Wolverine Power Cooperative.

• Appointed CEO Sobeck and Director Knopt to the Spartan Board of Directors.

• Approved the PIE&G staff recommendation to move the March Member Regulation Special Meeting and the March regular meeting of the PIE&G Board of Directors from March 22, 2022, to March 29, 2022.

• Accepted Team Reports.

Fuel Mix Report The fuel mix characteristics of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 6/30/21.

Comparison Of Fuel Sources Used Fuel source

PIE&G’s New Headquarters Is Now Open!

On Sept. 28, PIE&G held an open house to showcase its new office building to members. Approximately 200 people attended the event and enjoyed tours of the headquarters. The new state-of-the-art facility will enhance operational efficiencies, which will improve and modernize services to members. The new office is located at 3149 State Street (M-211), just north of Onaway.

Your Co-op’s fuel mix

Regional average fuel mix

Coal

18.21%

32.24%

Oil

0.25%

0.39%

Gas

18.63%

30.63%

Hydroelectric

1.10%

0.75%

Nuclear

42.94%

28.58%

Renewable Fuels

18.87%

7.41%

Biofuel

0.32%

0.73%

Biomass

0.17%

0.47%

Solar

0.62%

0.19%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.11%

0.01%

Wind

17.46%

5.56%

Wood

0.19%

0.45%

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

Your Co-op’s Fuel Mix

Above: The PIE&G Board of Directors celebrated its new headquarters open house with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

In front row (L to R by district): Sally Knopf (At-Large), Thomas Sobeck—CEO, Allan Berg—Chairman (Presque Isle), and Sandy Borowicz (Cheboygan). In back row (L to R by district): John Brown (Cheboygan), Raymond Wozniak (Presque Isle), Charles Arbour (Montmorency), Brentt Lucas (Alpena), Daryl Peterson (Montmorency), and Kurt Krajniak (Alpena).

Regional Average Fuel Mix

AMI Update

S

ince May, PIE&G has deployed AMI upgrades to approximately 12,000 residential electric meters, or about one-third of its electric services.

The co-op still has an additional 8,000 AMI modules to be installed on its natural gas meters. These units will be mounted onto the existing gas meters to allow for remote meter readings.

Work on the advanced metering technology for electric and natural gas infrastructure is expected to continue throughout 2022. Currently, PIE&G is facing some of the similar delays that other businesses are experiencing—material shortages and lack of product availability in the supply chain. Weather and other unforeseen issues may also affect the technology deployment schedule.

A friendly reminder to members to please continue to read and report your meter readings until the meter reading boxes on your billing stub have been removed. You may submit meter readings several ways—by writing them on your billing stub and returning them with your payment, by entering them using our Pay-By-Phone service (1-866-999-4571), or by using SmartHub (online at pieg.com or with our free mobile app). As always, our member service representatives are available to assist you during office hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 1-800-423-6634 or visit us at our new headquarters office at 3149 State Street (M-211) in Onaway.

Emissions And Waste Comparison lbs/MWh

Type Of Emission/Waste

Your Co-op

Regional Average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.58

1.25

Carbon Dioxide

665.4

1,248.0

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.43

0.91

0.0090

0.0060

High-level Nuclear Waste

*Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/20. Presque Isle Electric & Gas purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

Energy Assistance Programs 2021-2022 Season Winter Protection Plan

Earned Income Credit

Contact: Your Local Utility Company

Contact: • U.S. Treasury Dept., Internal Revenue Service, irs.gov/EITC • Michigan Dept. of Treasury, michigan.gov/treasury

Income Guidelines 2021–2022 # in Household 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable federal income tax credit for lowincome working individuals and families who meet certain requirements and file a tax return. Those who qualify will owe less in taxes and may get a refund. Even a person who does not generally owe income tax may qualify for the EITC, but must file a tax return to do so. If married, you must file jointly to qualify. File Form 1040 or 1040A and attach the EITC.

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income $19,320 26,130 32,940 39,750 46,560 53,370 60,180 66,990

You may claim a Michigan earned income tax credit for tax year 2020 equal to a percentage of the federal earned income tax credit for which you are eligible.

State Emergency Relief Program (SER)

Add $6,810 for each additional member.

The Winter Protection Plan (WPP) protects enrolled seniors and low-income customers from service shut-offs and high utility bill payments during the winter months. If you are eligible, your utility service will remain on (or restored with the WPP) from Nov. 1 through March 31, if you: • pay at least 7% of your estimated annual bill each month, and • make equal monthly payments between the date you apply and the start of the next heating season on any past due bills.

When the protection period ends (March 31), you must begin to pay the full monthly bill, plus part of the amount you owe from the winter months when you did not pay the full bill. Participation does not relieve customers from the responsibility of paying for electricity and natural gas usage, but does prevent shut-off during winter months. You qualify for the plan if you meet at least one of the following requirements: • are age 65 or older, • receive Dept. of Health and Human Services cash assistance, including SSI, • receive Food Assistance, • receive Medicaid, or • household income is at or below the 150% of poverty level shown in the Income Guidelines chart above.

Senior citizen customers who participate in the WPP are not required to make specific payments to ensure that their service will not be shut off between Nov. 1 and March 31. Service for seniors can be restored without any payments.

Note: All customers 65+ are eligible regardless of income. Customers are responsible for all electricity and natural gas used. At the end of the protection period, participants must make arrangements with their utility company to pay off any money owed before the next heating season.

Home Heating Credit

0–1 2 3

Max. Income

$14,168 19,162 24,156

# Exemp.

4 5 6

Add $4,994 for each exemption over 6.

Max. Income

$29,150 34,144 39,138

You can apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2021 tax year if you meet the income guidelines listed above (110% of poverty level) or you qualify based on alternate guidelines including household income, exemptions, and heating costs.

Additional exemptions are available for seniors, disabled claimants, or claimants with 5% or more of their income from unemployment compensation.

If you qualify, you may receive assistance to help pay for your winter heating bills.

Forms are available mid-to-late January wherever tax forms are provided or from the Michigan Dept. of Treasury (517-636-4486 or michigan.gov/treasury). The Home Heating Credit claim form must be filed with the Michigan Dept. of Treasury no later than Sept. 30 each year.

6

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

You do not have to be a DHHS client to apply for help with a past due bill, shut-off notice, or the need for deliverable fuel through the SER. This program, available Nov. 1–May 31, provides most of its utility assistance during this crisis season.

However, limited assistance is available outside the crisis season.

If you receive a DHHS cash grant, you may use part of it toward heat and electric bills.

Apply online using MI Bridges: Michigan.gov/mibridges.

Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program Contact: Local Community Action Agency You may be able to receive help with weatherizing your home to reduce energy use if you meet low-income eligibility guidelines (200% of poverty guidelines) or if you participate in the Dept. of Health and Human Services Family Independence Program or receive SSI. Weatherization may include caulking, weatherstripping, and insulation.

Contact your local Community Action Agency for details. Visit mcaaa.org to find one in your area.

United Way Contact: Call 2-1-1 or UWmich.org/2-1-1 2-1-1 is a free phone service operating 24 hours daily to provide information about help that may be available in a particular area with utilities and other needs. Dial 2-1-1 or visit mi211.org to find available services.

Medical Emergency Protection

Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury # Exemp.

Contact: Local Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS), michigan.gov/mdhhs

Contact: Local Utility Company You are protected from service shut-off for nonpayment of your natural gas and/ or electric bill for up to 21 days, possibly extending to 63 days, if you have a proven medical emergency. You must provide written proof from a doctor or a public health or social services official that a medical condition exists. Contact your gas or electric utility for details.

Shut-off Protection For Military Active Duty Contact: Local Utility Company If you or your spouse has been called into active military duty, you may apply for shut-off protection from your electric or natural gas service for up to 90 days. You may request extensions. You must still pay, but contact your utility company and they will help you set up a payment plan.

Michigan Veterans Trust Fund Emergency Grant Program

COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA)

Contact: MI Veterans Trust Fund

Administering Agency: Michigan State Housing Development Authority at michigan.gov/cera

The Trust Fund provides temporary assistance to veterans and their families facing a financial emergency or hardship, including the need for energy assistance. Contact the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund at 800-642-4838 or michiganveterans.com.

MI Energy Assistance Program Contact: Utility or 2-1-1 in late November The Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) includes services that will enable participants to become self-sufficient, including assisting participants in paying their energy bills on time, budgeting for and contributing to their ability to provide for energy expenses, and being energy efficient. Shut-off protection is provided Nov. 1–April 15 for all residential customers. The MEAP is supported by the state’s Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund (LIEAF). An electric utility that chooses not to collect for the LIEAF shall not shut off service to customers for nonpayment between Nov. 1 and April 15. For a list of electric providers that opt out of collecting the LIEAF, go to michigan.gov/energygrants.

In addition to rental assistance, CERA provides heat, electric, deliverable fuels, water, sewer, and broadband assistance to applicants who must demonstrate COVID hardship.

Some examples of accepted hardships are on the website, including qualified for unemployment benefits or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or has experienced other financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the coronavirus outbreak; and can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability evidenced by a past due utility or rent notice.

• Eligibility is 80% Area Median Income • Utility caps can range from $1,500 to $2,300 with $300–$500 for credits going forward, depending on family size • Up to 12 months of rental assistance • Broadband benefit • Online app portal and delivered through agencies (such as Community Action Agencies)

Dial 2-1-1 for more information on heating and other human services programs.

As connected devices become increasingly popular, it’s important that we know how to secure our digital lives.

The U.S. Department of Commerce offers the following tips for protecting smart devices:

Get creative with passwords.

Change your device’s factory security settings from the default password. This is one of the most important steps to take in the protection of internet-connected devices. Consider creating the longest password or passphrase permissible, and use familiar phrases you’ll remember, like the lyrics to your favorite song.

Keep tabs on your apps.

Security Tips For Connected Devices Today’s market offers a plethora of new gadgets and devices that claim to make our homes smarter, safer, and more efficient. But as with any new smart technology, consumers should take extra precautions to ensure these devices are secure.

Convenient, connected devices are here to stay—and unfortunately, so are the hackers. But by taking extra steps to safeguard your network and devices, you can keep your digital life as secure as possible.

Most connected devices are supported by a smartphone application. Your smartphone could be filled with apps running in the background or using default permissions you never realized you approved, gathering personal information without your knowledge while also putting your identity and privacy at risk. Check your app permissions and say “no” to privilege requests that don’t make sense.

Secure your network.

Properly secure the wireless network you use for internet-connected devices. Consider placing these devices on a separate and dedicated network.

Connect and protect.

Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, game console, camera, or other connected devices, the best defense is to stay on top of things by updating to the latest security software, web browser, and operating system. If you have the option to enable automatic updates to defend against the latest risks, turn it on.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

7

The Weather Outside Is Frightful B

ut inside your home, it’s so delightful—warm, cozy, and energy efficient!

The holidays tend to bring a flurry of activity to many families whose schedules are already stuffed to the brim, and we aren’t talking about the yummy stuffing that’s served with the Thanksgiving turkey kind of stuff. There is shopping to do, cookies to bake, decorations to display, friends to entertain, and then a big sigh of relief on Jan. 1.

Though fun and festive, holiday activities and traditions can put a strain on your finances. Instead of “bah-humbug,” try implementing some of these simple solutions to help you cut costs, saving you money and energy around your home.

operated candles are a safe energy-efficient option while still providing that holiday glow.

Holiday Lighting And Decorations

• Heating

• Switch to LED holiday lights. LED lights are brighter, last longer, and use less electricity than traditional, incandescent lights. Turn off room lights and enjoy the holiday ambiance.

• Light the fireplace. It adds warmth and a cozy mood to the room.

• Use a timer to manage lights. Set timers to automatically turn your holiday lights on at dusk and off at bedtime to cut down on energy costs.

• Decorate without lights. Get creative—try reflective ornaments, candles, ribbons, and garland. Battery-

• Turn down the thermostat. Take advantage of having guests in the house to generate heat.

By using these tips this holiday season, you won’t find yourself on the naughty list. Happy holidays to all and to all, happy savings.

To learn more, call 877-296-4319 or visit michigan-energy.org.

SAVE A LITTLE EXTRA WITH THESE HOLIDAY TIPS  USE LED HOLIDAY LIGHTS • they’re brighter, last longer, and use less electricity.  USE A TIMER TO MANAGE OUTDOOR HOLIDAY LIGHTS • recommended time is under 8 hours.  TURN OFF ROOM LIGHTS • light the fireplace or candles to warm the room and set the holiday mood.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION michigan-energy.org • 877.296.4319

Energy Optimization programs and incentives are applicable to Michigan electric service locations only.

Incentive applies to qualified items purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2021, and Nov. 30, 2021.

Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit michigan-energy.org.

PHOTO CONTEST

Santa 1. Magic is in the air. Karen Stevens 2. Merry Christmas?

Diane Wolfe 3. Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas! Gloria Zalewski 4. Santa, I want a ball for Christmas. I’ve been a very good boy. Debbi Glossop 5. Santa and Mrs. Wendy Martin 6. First visit with Santa. Gail Cook

MOST VOTES!

Enter to win up to a

$200

energy bill credit!

1

2

3

4

5

6

Submit Your “Fire & Ice” Photos By Dec. 20!

Submit your best photo and encourage others to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our photo contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines along with some of our other favorites. Our Nov./Dec. theme is Fire & Ice. Photos can be submitted through Dec. 20 to be featured in our January 2022 issue.

To enter the contest, visit pieg.com/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2022, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your January 2022 bill.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

9

MI CO-OP Recipes

Photos by Robert Bruce Photography || Recipes Submitted by MCL Readers and Tested by Recipe Editor Christin McKamey

PRESSURE COOKING Get food on the table fast.

WINNING RECIPE!

INSTANT POT LASAGNA SOUP Theresa Pacel, Cherryland

1 1 3–4 1 1 2 1 1 ½ 4 • 1–2 ½

pound ground beef cup diced onion cloves garlic, minced cup chicken broth (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (Old World Victoria is my favorite) cups water teaspoon dried basil teaspoon dried oregano teaspoon dried thyme uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces salt, to taste teaspoons sugar, or to taste; start with less and add more if needed cup heavy cream

Cheese Mixture: 1 cup ricotta 1 cup shredded mozzarella ½ cup shredded (not grated) parmesan 1 teaspoon dried parsley

RECIPE CONTEST Win a

$50

energy bill credit!

Sweet Treats due Dec. 1 • Italian due Jan. 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.

Submit your recipe at micoopkitchen.com, or send it via email (include your full name and co-op) to recipes@countrylines.com.

10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Set the Instant Pot/pressure cooker (6 quart or bigger) to the “Sauté” setting on low and cook ground beef and onion until almost done. Add minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes. Turn off and drain well. Return to pot and add broth, marinara sauce, water, dried herbs, and broken noodles. Lock lid and set to “Sealing.” Cook on high pressure (on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting) for 8 minutes, then do quick release. Remove lid and let simmer/warm for 10 to 15 minutes or until lasagna noodles are cooked through. Then add salt and sugar. Mix the 3 kinds of cheese together with the parsley and dollop into soup, stirring until mixed well. Add heavy cream and mix well. Taste again for salt and sugar. Serve!

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

INSTANT POT EASY PULLED PORK Victoria Nelson, Great Lakes Energy

1 pork shoulder (about 4.3 pounds) 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dry Rub: 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons black pepper 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

BBQ Sauce: 1½ cups water 28 ounces Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce (use only ½ the bottle)

Cut pork shoulder into large pieces (about 6 parts). Make the dry rub and rub well into both sides of the meat. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” and add the oil. Add meat to brown all sides (about 3 minutes per side). Mix 1½ cups of water with ½ bottle of BBQ sauce. Once all meat has been browned, remove meat from Instant Pot. Add mixture of water and BBQ sauce to Instant Pot to deglaze bottom of pot.

Add pork back into pot. Lock lid and set to “Sealing.” Choose the “Manual” setting and set to 60 minutes. Wait for pressure to build (you should see the pressure pin pop up after a few minutes). After 60 minutes of pressure cooking, carefully release pressure to “Venting.” Use forks or tongs to pull apart the pork; it should be super tender and fall apart. Serve on sandwiches or eat as is.

INSTANT POT AUTUMN SQUASH SOUP Heather Beach, Cherryland

1 teaspoon olive oil ½ cup chopped onions (white or yellow) 3–4 garlic cloves, minced 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks 2 green Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored, sliced into chunks 3 cups broth (vegetable or chicken) 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk 1 teaspoon honey • salt and pepper, to taste ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon curry powder

INSTANT POT MINESTRONE SOUP Laura Campbell, HomeWorks Tri-County 2 3 1 2 2 1½ 1 ½ 6 1 1 1 1 1 1

tablespoons olive oil cloves garlic, minced yellow onion, diced carrots, peeled and diced stalks celery, diced teaspoons dried basil teaspoon dried oregano teaspoon fennel seed cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (16-ounce) can cannellini or kidney beans, drained and rinsed zucchini, chopped (3-inch) parmesan rind bay leaf bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and add the oil and onions.

When translucent and fragrant, add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add in the squash, green apples, broth, coconut milk, honey, salt/pepper, cinnamon, and curry powder. Stir; set the pressure cooker to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and cook for 15 minutes. When the pot indicates it has finished, quick release the steam.

Open the pot and, using an immersion blender, very carefully blend until creamy. You can also transfer to a highpowered blender.

Stovetop Instructions: Add oil and onions to a large pot or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Sauté until fragrant and translucent; add garlic. Add the squash, green apples, broth, coconut milk, honey, salt/pepper, cinnamon, and curry powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 30 minutes. Use an immersion blender or high-powered blender to blend the soup until creamy.

2 teaspoons red wine vinegar • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste ¹⁄ ³ cup freshly grated parmesan 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves Set a 6 or 8 quart Instant Pot to the high “Sauté” setting. Add olive oil, garlic, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in basil, oregano, and fennel seed until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in stock, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, zucchini, parmesan rind, and bay leaf. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting; adjust pressure to high, and set time for 5 minutes.

When finished cooking, carefully quick release the pressure. Stir in kale until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in red wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with parmesan and parsley, if desired.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

11

Powering Communities, Empowering Members

2020 PIE&G Communities First Fund Awards:

$36,187

The generosity of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op members and their desire to better their communities allow the PIE&G Communities First Fund (CFF) to fulfill its philanthropic mission of distributing funds to help individuals and organizations in need throughout its service area.

The CFF is managed by an independent, all-volunteer board of directors. Funds come from members who volunteer to round up the change on their energy bill to the next whole dollar (averages 50 cents monthly). These small contributions add up to make a BIG difference in northeast Michigan.

To those who participate in the fund—THANK YOU! For those who would like to join the cause and help their community, please see page 13 of this issue to enroll.

2020 Communities First Fund Grant Summary Cheboygan County Veterans Memorial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,500 Cheboygan County Veterans Memorial Park Improvements Voices Without Borders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200 Fall Class “My Choral Coach” Hillman Community Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Elementary Beginning Band Wind Instruments New Beginnings Ministries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500 Hillman Area Resource Pantry (HARP) Atlanta Area Little League. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Field Upgrades Alpena County Sheriff’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,361 ICE Rescue Boat/Equipment Purchase Northeast Michigan Community Services Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Energy Efficiency Improvement Program United Way of Northeast Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Gear-Up and Stuff-the-Bus Alpena Area Senior Citizens Council Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Liquid Nutrition Program Cheb., Otsego, P.I. Educational Service District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $826 Project Healthy Community Atlanta Church of Christ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 The Caring Place Together We Can Food Pantry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,200 Together We Can Food Pantry Distribution VFW Post 2496 Alpena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,500 Boiler Replacement/New Neon Light Sign Presque Isle County Historical Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,410 Bradley House Historical Storage Project

12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

St. Paul Onaway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,000 Emergency Electrical Restoration County of Alpena—Emergency Management Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,790 Emergency Management Division—Sandbagging Machine Rogers City Community Theatre, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $900 Tech Booth to Backstage Communication Cheboygan Compassionate Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,500 Electric Range for The Lord’s Kitchen Total Grants: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25,687

High School Scholarship Recipients Shaylee Michael . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Alysa Funk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Joslynn Brown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 George Kroll. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Nikita Cordes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Johnathon Clayton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Eyan Hincka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Ava Hansel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Brianna Matson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Elizabeth Belanger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 Makenna Grulke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500 Total Scholarships:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10,500

PIE&G Communities First Fund Statements of Financial Position December 31, 2019 and 2020 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: Cash

Cash – restricted

Accounts receivable TOTAL ASSETS

NET ASSETS

Unrestricted

Unrestricted, designated

2020 $

93,952

$ $

Permanently restricted TOTAL NET ASSETS

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS ACTIVITIES AND CHANGE IN NET ASSETS REVENUE Contributions – members Contributions – PIE&G Interest

TOTAL REVENUE

EXPENSES Grants

Scholarships

$

$

100,450

$

102,795

72,577

$

61,237

3,000

3,498

24,873

100,450

$

45,166

$

93

3,654

38,558

3,000

100,450

13,286

3,000

102,795 102,795

47,326

13,784

97

58,545

$

61,207

$

36,104

$

51,158

11,500 2,725

9,660

576

TOTAL EXPENSE

1,399

60,890

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS

64,942

(2,345)

$

HOW CAN I HELP MY COMMUNITY? The PIE&G Communities First Fund was created in 1998. Funds for this program are generated when PIE&G members volunteer to “round up” their utility bills to the next whole dollar. The average contribution is about 50 cents per month per meter. All contributions are tax-deductible.

102,795

100,450

–

2,725

9,985

Directors’ expense

Please call our Member Services Department at 800-423-6634 to join.

You may also mail the completed enrollment form on this page with your utility payment or find the form at pieg.com/communities-first.

96,141

$

Program expense

NET ASSETS, end of year

$

3,000

Professional fees

NET ASSETS, beginning of year

2019

(3,735)

$

106,530 102,795

Enroll To Help Your Community

Yes!

I want to participate in the COMMUNITIES FIRST FUND. Please enroll me and round up my bill to the next highest dollar each month.

Name (please print) Account Number Mailing Address

Signature Date Include this coupon in your next bill payment, or mail to: PIE&G COMMUNITIES FIRST FUND, P.O. Box 308, Onaway, MI 49765

O CH R ISTMA S TR E E Michigan’s Unsuspecting Big Business

By Emily Haines Lloyd

T

he Christmas season is bursting with joy, hope, and a healthy dose of nostalgia.

We take it in through all our senses— the sight of fresh snow and glistening lights, the taste of holiday recipes handed down through generations, the sound of carols on the radio, the feeling of holding handmade ornaments.

But perhaps nothing brings us so quickly into the holiday spirit than the smell of fresh pine, evergreen, and spruce. Is there anything as completely magical as a fresh-cut Christmas tree?

While we get lost in the memories and moments that flood us around our trees, it’s easy to forget that Christmas trees are also a business, in fact, a pretty big business in Michigan.

“Michigan is the third largest grower of Christmas trees in the country,” said Amy Start, executive director of the Michigan Christmas Tree Association (MCTA). “There are 2 million Christmas trees harvested each year in Michigan, but the magic is that there is one perfect tree for each person or family.”

With only Oregon and North Carolina producing more Christmas trees, Michigan farms grow more than 37,000 acres of commercial trees that produce a $35 million industry for our state. With an average growing cycle of 10 to 12 years before harvest, these are an investment in time, land, and resources, making them a huge commitment.

Scott Powell, manager of Dutchman Tree Farms in Manton, Michigan, is part of the family-owned team that is not only the largest Christmas tree grower in Michigan, but is in the top five producers annually in the United States.

“Christmas trees are our business. For every crop we grow, there are real American families who put their hard work in every day,” said Powell.

“There is a lot of joy in the work, but also a lot of responsibility as stewards of the land. We take care of it for future generations to work and enjoy.”

While Dutchman is heavily involved in providing trees to wholesalers—think big-box parking lots with strung lights, making it easier for families to

Dutchman Tree Farms

Robinson Tree Farm

get their tree during their busy lives—they also have a Choose & Cut business that is run by the teenagers in the family, who have grown up trimming and shearing alongside their families for their entire lives.

Others in the Christmas tree and nursery business, like Needlefast Evergreens, a Great Lakes Energy member in Ludington, Michigan, are equally connected by both Christmas trees and family lineage. Started by Bill Nickelson in 1954, the current Needlefast is run by Bill’s son and grandson, Jim and Ben Nickelson. Even Ben’s 11-year-old son has gotten into the business—growing a few rows of strawberries in the off-season and making sure the berries are cared for as he saves enough for next year’s plants.

“The entire business is about family,” said Ben Nickelson.

“On Thanksgiving morning, our family comes together and loads trucks full of Christmas trees before we settle into our meal. The next day, families from all over come to visit us to find their perfect tree.”

While many farms have passed through generations, there are those who are still run by their first generation, like Robinson Tree Farm in Traverse City, Michigan, owned by Darrell Robinson. However, the sentiments run just as deep.

Needlefast Evergreens The Association encourages school field trips and can connect educators with farms in their area.

“You can’t help but be moved as you watch families come year after year, growing up alongside my own family,” said Robinson. “And then you’ll have someone offer to pay for another family or donating one to a family in need—and you know you’re in the right business.”

The MCTA also provides help with coordinating tree donations from Michigan farms for the annual Trees for Troops program. Trees for Troops is a nonprofit program where various farms from around the state donate trees for U.S. troops and their families—to ensure they know others are grateful and thinking of them for their sacrifices during the holiday season.

Nickelson agrees. “Most of the people who visit our farm are lifelong customers. So often in our everyday, we are looking for things to make life easier. But when the family shows up, picks their tree, decorates it—well, we remember to look for the things that make life better.”

“It’s the best crop, for the best reason,” said Powell.

“While celebrating the birth of Jesus, we also get to be a part of memories for families, to celebrate and remember those they love and have lost. For our family, it’s very personal.”

The Michigan Christmas Tree Association (MCTA) is a nonprofit membership organization serving Christmas tree growers in the state of Michigan. The MCTA promotes and markets real Christmas trees to the public, while assisting growers in the state with education and business connections to improve the profitability of their farms.

To find a Christmas tree farm in your area, visit mcta.org.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

15

LOCAL ARTIST ANN GILDNER

Photography by Scott Susalla

“Plasma cutting is electricity and air,” said Ann Gildner of Gildner Gallery Studio in Onaway, Michigan.

“I couldn’t do what I do without electricity.”

people that way. You get people to pause and look at something outside their own lives for a moment.”

Gildner is speaking of her reliable power source from Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op. Still, after talking to Gildner about her passion for art and imagination, it’s possible she could power her welding machinery with her own limitless energy source.

It was nearly 10 years ago that Gildner enrolled in a welding class. Here she learned the basics of welding and plasma cutting—using the aforementioned electricity and air to literally cut through metal. While taking a class at Moran Iron Works in Onaway, Gildner met her future mentor, Tom Moran.

Gildner’s fine arts degree led her to own her own flower shop and art gallery for 35 years. Then, she worked mostly with paint and pottery.

“I’d see people walk by the gallery and look through the window, but so many never came in,” said Gildner. “However, if you put public art outside—people walk by, stop, consider. You can reach so many 16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

By Emily Haines Lloyd

It’s no surprise that Gildner switched her focus to an art platform that more than piques folks’ interest—it practically demands their attention.

“I remember we were working on maquettes, smaller-scale models of what we hoped to create,” said Gildner. “Tom walked by and was like, ‘how big do you want to make it?”

Gildner blurted out, “Fifteen feet!”

Tom smiled at her audacity and simply said—“Let’s start with eight feet.”

Welding quickly became Gildner’s passion, sparking big ideas and building her confidence that if she could draw something, she was developing the skill to build it.

Perhaps Moran’s initial smile was knowing Gildner could and would surpass that initial sculpture’s heft.

Gildner grew into her own studio space, where she has created large-form steel sculptures like a 14-foot steel sphere called “Free Fall”—exhibited at the international competition, Art Prize—and commissioned pieces for clients around the region. To date, her largest sculpture looms at 40 feet tall—a bell tower for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hubbard Lake.

“Sometimes I get an idea bigger than my space allows for,” said Gildner.

“Luckily, Tom at Moran Iron Works will collaborate on these large pieces.”

Gildner certainly repays the favor by sharing what she’s learned with

her own students—at her studio, the Industrial Arts Institute, or even the local high school. Her students include everyone from young people considering welding as a vocation and even an 80-year-old woman who had welding on her “bucket list.”

Gildner is busy with commissioned work, but her brain is always dreaming up new projects she hopes to have time for.

“I keep thinking—why can’t I age backward?” said Gildner. “I still have so much I want to create.”

With her ideas, artistry, and energy, there’s no telling what Gildner can yet accomplish. And as far as squeezing out more years to create, if there was ever someone who could bend not only metal but also time to her will—it’s the powerful and positive Ann Gildner.

For more information, visit:

/gildnergallery

“I keep thinking—why can’t I age backward? I still have so much I want to create.”

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

Guest Column

Picking Out My Own Game Jersey

By Brian Maki, Alger Delta Cooperative member

T

here’s nothing more fitting in this world than picking out your own game jersey. Ask any sports player. The sweat and sacrifice are monumental to end up wearing something that represents you, your school, and your community. It’s really considered the “holy grail” of all sporting experiences.

I had been team manager from 1985 through 1988. After practice one night, Marquette’s legendary basketball coach Gordy LeDuc said, “Brian, three kids quit the team today. There’s only nine on the bench.” As a 17-year-old kid, I was still looking for my chance. He asked: “You wanna join the team?”

“Sure,” I said. “I’ll keep stats for you. I’ll do whatever it takes, coach.” He smiled. Mr. LeDuc threw me the key to the old storage room, a place where team jerseys were stored. It was a place I knew well but had never believed that I would ever pick out my own jersey in my wildest of dreams. But I did. Thirty-three years ago.

On Jan. 26, 1988, my dreams turned into reality. I would no longer be remembered as just a team manager.

On that special night, I would crush many failures with my very first shot. With three seconds left, I broke for the ball, and while double-teamed, I heaved a magical 55-foot shot at the buzzer. The horn was long over by the time the ball hit the backboard and went in. Game over.

People bolted from their seats and pushed me to the ground, chanting my name. It was (and still is to this day) the greatest moment of my life. The odds were stacked against me that I would ever find myself in that jersey.

But, there I was, a winner. This shot was an accumulation of effort, focus, patience, luck, experience, fate, practice, and faith to seal my fate and my destiny into basketball lore. Talk about a “holy grail” experience.

Win a

$50

energy bill credit!

Brian Maki is a computer consultant and enjoys traveling in the U.P., writing, and learning about new technology.

WIN $150!

Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $150 for stories published.

Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

Where In Michigan Is This?

Identify the correct location of the photo to the left

by Dec. 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $50 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

September 2021 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Jodie Samkowiak, a Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member, who correctly identified the photo as Mackinaw Island House Hotel, looking from the marina side. Photo courtesy of Corey Niedzwiecki.

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

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PIE&G

School Friday Folders PIE&G made its annual delivery of “Friday Folders” for member students enrolled in local public elementary schools for the 2021–22 academic year. PIE&G has donated the folders to member schools since 2003 to help teachers send important student papers home for parents’ review each Friday.

The laminated folders are customized with each school’s name, mascot, and colors, and were distributed the first week of classes in September.

Best wishes to all kids and teachers for a successful year of learning!