Nov/Dec 2023 Thumb

November/December 2023

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES Thumb Electric Cooperative

Santa Claus Here Comes

Michigan’s Internationally Recognized Santa School

Special Board Meeting Is Nov. 21

Youth Tour Applications Due Jan. 12

Electrical Safety Tips For Hunters

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT 1

Smart homeowners around the world have scrapped their old furnaces and air conditioners and replaced them with a WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system. That’s because WaterFurnace geothermal systems use the clean, renewable energy in your own backyard to provide savings up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. You won’t need that old inefficient furnace or that unsightly outdoor air conditioner because a WaterFurnace system provides complete comfort for your home with a single unit. And because the system doesn’t burn fossil fuels, there are no fumes or carbon monoxide concerns. Make the smart switch to geothermal. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn more.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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

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

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

Bad Axe/Ubly Cutting Edge Htg & Clg (989) 551-0986

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

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

Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616) 897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com

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

Mancelona Top Notch Htg, Clg, & Geothermal (231) 350-8052 Topnotchheatandair.com

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

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

Traverse City D&W Mechanical (231) 941-1251 dwmechanical.com

Berrien Springs Waterfurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com

Cloverland: up to $4,200 Great Lakes: up to $3,000 Homeworks/Tri-County: up to $3,000 Presque Isle: up to $2,700 Cherryland: up to $2,500 Thumb Electric: up to $2,000 Alger Delta: up to $2,000

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. ©2023 1.ENERGY STAR rated units qualify for 30% through 2032, 26% through 2033 and 22% through 2034

Contents Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives

countrylines.com

November/December 2023 Vol. 43, No. 10

/michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association Michigan Country Lines, USPS-591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933.

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

Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS.

Association Officers: Tom Sobeck, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, president and CEO.

CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.

The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

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: 10/1/23.

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. 2023. 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) Total No. of copies................................. 246,919 ...................... 245,458 B) Paid and requested circulation ............ 246,070 ...................... 244,765 C) Total paid and requested circulation ... 246,070 ...................... 244,765 D) 1) Free distribution by mail.......................... 157 .............................. 132 2) Free distribution outside mail ................. 849 .............................. 693 E) Total free distribution ................................1,006 .............................. 825 F) Total distribution................................... 247,925 ...................... 245,590 G) Copies not distributed.......................................0 ...................................0 H) Total ....................................................... 247,925 ...................... 245,590 I) Percent paid and/or requested circ.......... 99.7% .......................... 99.9%

16. Publication of statement of ownership: November 2023 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, editor

#micoopcommunity Instagram contest winner

“The most beautiful things are not perfect, they are special.” Bob Marley. @michianaadventures

6 MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

NOW HAS A COOKBOOK Find out how to order your copy of "Best of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook."

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Family Favorites: easy meals that will please even your pickiest eaters.

14 HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS Michigan's internationally recognized Santa School.

18 ENERGY ASSISTANCE

PROGRAMS FOR 2023–2024

MI Co-op Community

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

Instagram Contest

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

Win $100 for photos published!

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Best Layered Cakes due Dec. 1; Soups & Stews due Jan. 1; Stir Fries & Curries due Feb. 1

Win a $100 bill credit!

Guest Column

Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

Win $200 for stories published!

Where In Michigan Is This?

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Identify the correct location of the photo to the left by Nov. 20 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

Sept. 2023 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is David Heidenreich, a Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member, who correctly identified the University of Michigan Law Library in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

3

/thumbelectric

Proposed Rate Revision

@thumbelectric

Brad Essenmacher, General Manager

tecmi.coop

THUMB ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2231 Main Street Ubly, MI 48475-0157 1-800-327-0166 or 989-658-8571 E-mail: tec@tecmi.coop

BOARD OF DIRECTORS HURON COUNTY Randall Dhyse, Treasurer District 1 • 989-658-6013 Craig Osentoski, Director District 2 • 989-658-6003 Erica Peruski, Director District 3 • 989-658-6004 SANILAC COUNTY Kim Nunn, Vice President District 1 • 989-658-6005 Mike Briolat, Secretary District 2 • 989-658-6006

Duane Kursinsky, Director District 3 • 989-658-6007 TUSCOLA COUNTY Louis Wenzlaff, Director District 1 • 989-658-6008

Jonathan Findlay, President District 2 • 989-658-6010 Matt Sommer, Director District 3 • 989-658-6012

Brad Essenmacher, General Manager Marketing and Communications: Mitch Hirn, CCC mhirn@tecmi.coop

PAYMENT STATIONS Huron County Bad Axe—Northstar Bank Pigeon—Northstar Bank Tuscola County Akron—Northstar Bank Caro—Northstar Bank Mayville—Mayville State Bank Millington—Mayville State Bank Thumb Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

HURON

TUSCOLA

SANILAC

4 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

A

s we are all getting too familiar with, inflation seems to be hitting everywhere. The cost of everything from gas, food, and clothing to hotel rooms, flights, and automobiles is on the rise. These costs don’t just hit everyday consumers in the pocketbook—they also hit us at the cooperative, especially since we are in an industry reliant on raw materials used to make essential items such as transformers and wire. Additionally, recent storms have made items such as wooden poles a little harder to come by, forcing us at times to purchase them from a higher-cost supplier. Interest rates on money we borrow for system upgrades, our fiber project, and long-term equipment needs also contribute to higher costs. Not all the news is grim, however. Material costs for our fiber optic project remain fairly stable, efficiencies in construction help lower cost, and a staff that is very cost-conscious helps neutralize inflationary pressure.

We are also fast approaching 2,000 TEC Fiber internet subscribers, which helps with revenue and also offsets some cost increases.

With that, however, our financial forecasting shows a need for an approximate 3.5% increase in 2024 to ensure we meet our financial obligations. Along with our day-to-day expenses in maintaining the system, TEC and other utility companies borrow money for capital projects that improve the system over many years. Rebuilding circuits with new wires and poles, installing fiber for internet services, and making sure equipment such as bucket trucks are replaced when needed are very expensive projects that normally last for many years.

The items used for these projects are typically financed over long periods, and lenders require that we meet certain levels of funding to satisfy those lending obligations. Yes, we are a non-profit organization, but to meet these financial obligations, we are required to make a profit. The good news for members is those profits are returned in time.

Thumb Electric will be holding a special meeting on Nov. 21 at 5:30 p.m. for the board of directors to consider the proposed rate and tariff changes. Please see the summary chart on page 5 for more information on the proposed changes. The average residential member will see an approximate $5.00 monthly increase. We certainly understand no one likes to pay higher costs, especially when costs are going up everywhere and affordability is an issue, but we also understand that reliability is as important, if not more important. TEC’s mission statement is “To safely provide our members exceptional, courteous, and reliable services at a competitive cost.” If we look at that and benchmark ourselves with other electric utilities in our area, we feel we are meeting that mission.

Happy Holidays

Thumb Electric’s office will be closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving: Thursday, Nov. 23 & Friday, Nov. 24 Christmas: Monday, Dec. 25 & Tuesday, Dec. 26 New Year’s Holidays: Monday, Jan. 1 & Tuesday, Jan. 2

Thumb Electric Cooperative Proposed Rate Revision Summary PRESENT RATE

PROPOSED REVENUE INCREASE

PROPOSED RATE

FARM & HOME SERVICE (Rate D-4.00)

PRESENT RATE

PROPOSED REVENUE INCREASE

PROPOSED RATE

OUTDOOR PROTECTIVE LIGHTING SERVICE (Rate D-12.00)

SERVICE CHARGE/METER

$27.00

$28.00

40 W LED

$10.85

$11.25

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.12285

$0.12720

175 W MV & 100 WHPS

$15.75

$16.75

400 W MV & 250 W HPS

$22.75

$23.75

SERVICE CHARGE/METER

$32.50

$33.50

LARGE POWER DISTRIBUTION SUBSTATION (Rate D-11.00)

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.14025

$0.14600

DEMAND CHARGE/KW

$10.50

$10.75

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.06825

$0.06900

$35.00

$40.00

SEASONAL RESIDENTIAL SERVICE (Rate D-6.00)

GENERAL SERVICE (Rate D-8.00) SERVICE CHARGE/METER

$30.00

$31.00

FARM AND HOME TIME-OF-DAY SERVICE (Rate D-5.00)

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.12230

$0.12670

SERVICE CHARGE/METER

SERVICE CHARGE/METER

$35.00

$36.00

ON-PEAK

$0.14750

$0.15250

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.13395

$0.13980

INTERMEDIATE

$0.08800

$0.09250

OFF-PEAK

$0.06675

$0.07250

$35.00

$40.00

ON-PEAK

$0.14750

$0.15250

INTERMEDIATE

$0.08800

$0.09250

OFF-PEAK

$0.06675

$0.07250

SEASONAL GENERAL SERVICE (Rate D-7.00)

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

LARGE GENERAL SERVICE (Rate D-10.00) DEMAND CHARGE/KW

$10.50

$10.75

GENERAL TIME-OF-DAY SERVICE (Rate D-9.00)

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.08755

$0.08850

SERVICE CHARGE/METER

$0.06700

$0.07720

ENERGY STORAGE (Rate D-16.00)

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

INTERRUPTIBLE ELECTRIC HEATING SERVICE (Rate D-15.00) ENERGY CHARGE/KWH

$0.07890

$0.08720

2 HOUR CREDIT/MONTH

-$1.00

$0.00

SERVICE CHARGE

$200.00

$225.00

4 HOUR CREDIT/MONTH

-$4.50

-$3.00

ENERGY CHARGE

$0.06450

$0.06750

6 HOUR CREDIT/MONTH

-$6.00

-$4.00

DEMAND CHARGE

$3.00

$3.00

CONTROLLED WATER HEATING (Rate D-13.00)

TRANSMISSION STANDBY SERVICE-TSB (Rate D-26.00)

CONTROLLED CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE (Rate D-25.00) CREDIT/YEAR

-$10.00

-$5.00

Notice To Members Of Thumb Electric Cooperative Special Board Meeting—Nov. 21, 2023 The Thumb Electric Board of Directors will consider changes to the cooperative’s rates and tariffs at its Nov. 21, 2023, meeting. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. at the cooperative office at 2231 Main St., Ubly, MI. It is open to all members of Thumb Electric Cooperative, in accordance with PA 167 of 2008.

The session will begin with an opportunity for members to provide input to the board of directors on the items being considered. Time constraints on each member’s comments will be at the discretion of the board chairman, but members are asked to keep comments to less than five minutes.

The following will be considered: 1. Revise the cooperative’s rates and tariffs.

2. Close tariffs. Schedule ES (D-16) & Schedule CWH (D-13) for future use.

Notice of changes or additions to the cooperative’s rates or service rules shall be sent to all members, as required by P.A. 167, by publication in Michigan Country Lines at least 30 days prior to their effective date.

Participation: Any interested member may attend and participate. The location of the board meeting site is accessible, including accessible parking.

Persons needing any accommodation to participate should contact Thumb Electric Cooperative at 800- 327-0166 a week in advance to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance. Comments may also be made before the meeting date by calling General Manager Brad Essenmacher, or by email at bessenmacher@tecmi.coop.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

Discover the Magic of the Michigan Country Lines Cookbook!

Step into a world of culinary wonder with our exclusive cookbook, carefully curated from the finest recipes generously shared by our state’s electric cooperative members over the past decade. This cookbook isn’t just about food; it’s a celebration of the joys of cooking and community.

$27.98 on Amazon and countrylines.com 6

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

COOKING FOR A CAUSE All proceeds from the sales of this cookbook will be donated to two deserving Michigan charities: 1. Feeding America Local Food Banks: Ensuring that those in our community never go without nourishing meals and food security.

2. Cooperative Family Fund: Offering vital support to the children of electric cooperative employees who face the loss of a parent while actively employed at a cooperative.

Make this holiday season delicious and memorable by ordering your copies and spreading the warmth of community.

Order now in time for the holidays!

Scan the QR code to embark on your culinary journey.

Please allow 7–10 days for shipping.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

7

Contribute To

T H AW (The Heat And Warmth Fund)

Neighbors helping neighbors in need.

• A family had funeral expenses that caused them to fall behind in their utility bill payments.

• A senior citizen with an annual income of $7,000 had to pay a large, unexpected medical bill and fell behind on utility payments.

• A 42-year-old husband with two children is laid off. He can’t find another job, his unemployment ran out…and the utility bills didn’t get paid.

Keep this child—and thousands of others like him— warm this winter.

These are just some of the people helped by The Heat And Warmth Fund (THAW).

THAW is a nonprofit organization that provides last-resort energy assistance to low-income families in Thumb Electric Cooperative’s service area. THAW has helped more than 75,000 Michigan senior citizens and families (more than half with children) keep their heat and electricity on during the winter months.

Please make a donation to THAW. Your tax-deductible contribution will help someone in your community keep their heat and electricity on this winter.

Please complete and mail the clip-out form below, along with your donation, to: Department 77650, THAW Fund, P.O. Box 77000, Detroit, MI 48277-0650. Or, make a contribution using VISA or MasterCard by calling 800-866-THAW (8429). Your gift is tax deductible.

Also visit thawfund.org for more information.

!

Yes! MAIL TO:

Dept. 77650 THAW Fund P.O. Box 77000 Detroit, MI 48277-0650

I want to help someone in my community keep their heat and electricity on this winter.

Enclosed is my check or money order payable to THAW. I understand my gift is tax deductible.

 $10

 $25

 $50

 Other $____________________________

Name_________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________ City/State/ZIP__________________________________________________________________________________ To make a contribution using VISA or MasterCard, call 1-800-866-THAW (or 8429) or visit thawfund.org.

Celebrations

PHOTO CONTEST

1

3 Enter for a chance to win a $50 energy bill credit!

Submit Your “Great Outdoors” Photos by Nov. 20

Submit your “Great Outdoors” photos by Nov. 20 for the January/February issue! Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote! The photo receiving the most votes will be printed in an issue of Country Lines along with some of our other favorites.

Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit!

To enter the contest, visit tecmi.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 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your December 2024 bill.

2

4

5

MOST VOTES 1. Our wedding day. Brianna Guza 2. Grandpa & grandson driving a tractor that’s been in our family since 2004 at the Octagon Barn parade.

Sean Clark 3. Memorial Day celebration. Sarah Durr 4. Daddy’s December birthday. Robert Daniels 5. Congratulations to our 2023 graduate. Joette Klein

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

9

MI CO-OP Recipes

FAMILY FAVORITES Easy meals that will please even your pickiest eaters

WINNING RECIPE! EASY ONE-PAN CHICKEN DINNER

Julie Grulke, Presque Isle Electric 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 (15-ounce) cans green beans, drained (or 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed) 3–4 potatoes, peeled & cubed 1 (4-ounce) stick butter or margarine 1 package dry Italian dressing

Recipe Contest

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray a 9x13 pan with oil. Place chicken breasts down center of pan. Spread green beans on side of the chicken. Spread the potatoes on the other side of the chicken. Melt the butter and stir in the Italian dressing. Pour liquid over chicken, beans, and potatoes. Bake for 1 hour or until chicken and potatoes are done. Serve and enjoy.

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Best Layered Cakes due Dec. 1; Soups & Stews due Jan. 1; Stir Fries & Curries due Feb. 1 Submit your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $100 bill credit and have your recipe featured in Country Lines with a photo and a video.

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

10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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

MARVELOUS MUSHROOM WHITE PIZZA Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

1 pound store-bought pizza dough, at room temperature 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 pound mixed mushrooms (your choice), sliced ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided ½ cup whole-milk ricotta cheese 4 ounces (1 cup) shredded lowmoisture mozzarella 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 450 F with rack in lowest position. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, stretch out the dough to a 16x10-inch rectangle. Bake until lightly golden, about 7 minutes. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and ½ teaspoon each salt and black pepper. In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Spread over prebaked crust, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange mushroom mixture on top. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. Cut and serve. Enjoy!

CAULIFLOWER PARMESAN Luise Bolleber, Cherryland

3 eggs + pinch of salt 3 cups breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 medium head cauliflower, trimmed, cut into ½-inch thick pieces ½ cup vegetable oil, for frying 5 cups tomato or marinara sauce, divided 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese Heat oven to 400°F. Place eggs and pinch of salt in a small bowl and beat. Place breadcrumbs in another bowl or a pie plate. Mix the Italian seasoning into the

breadcrumbs and add the salt and black pepper. Dip cauliflower pieces in the eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs. Add some of the oil to a heavy skillet over mediumhigh heat. Fry cauliflower in batches, until golden brown on both sides. Add more oil as needed. Drain cauliflower pieces on a paper towel-lined plate. Spoon some of the sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan. Scatter half of the cauliflower pieces over the sauce. Drizzle some sauce over the cauliflower and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Layer the rest of the cauliflower pieces over the cheese, spread with remaining sauce, and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake about 30 minutes until cheese is golden and sauce is bubbling. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

CABBAGE ROLLS Sandy Preston

1 egg, beaten ½ cup milk ¼ cup onion, finely chopped 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ¾ teaspoon salt ¹⁄ 8 teaspoon black pepper 1 pound ground beef or ground venison burger ¾ cup cooked rice 6 large or 12 medium cabbage leaves 2 (10¾-ounce) cans condensed tomato soup 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a bowl, combine egg, milk, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Add meat and cooked rice. Mix well. Remove center vein of cabbage leaves, keeping each leaf in one piece. Immerse leaves in boiling water about 3 minutes or until limp; drain.

Place ½ cup meat mixture on each large leaf or ¼ cup mixture on each medium leaf.

Fold in sides, making sure folded sides are included in roll. Arrange in a 12x7x2-inch baking dish. Stir together tomato soup with brown sugar and lemon juice. Pour sauce mixture over cabbage rolls. Bake uncovered for 75 minutes, basting once or twice with sauce.

SIRLOIN TIPS WITH MUSHROOMS Terry Baxter, Great Lakes Energy

1¼ pounds sirloin steak, cubed 2 tablespoons butter, divided 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed ¾ pound fresh mushrooms, sliced ¹⁄³ cup beef broth ¹⁄³ cup dry red wine or water 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon cornstarch ½ cup whipping cream • chopped parsley Preheat oven to 300 F. In a wide skillet, brown the meat in 1 tablespoon of butter and the vegetable oil. Add the garlic. As pieces brown, remove meat to casserole dish with a lid. Add remaining 1 tablespoon

butter to the skillet. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 1–2 minutes, then add to the meat. Cover. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until meat is tender. Meanwhile, add broth, wine or water, and soy sauce to the pan in which the meat was browned. Boil, stirring up the “brownings” (meat remnants left over in the pan) until reduced to about half. In a small bowl, blend the mustard, cornstarch, and cream. Add to the pan and boil until thick. Pour the juice from the meat in the casserole dish into the pan. Boil, while whisking, until smooth and thick. Add the meat to the sauce and stir in. Sprinkle with parsley. This can be served over white rice or wide egg noodles. Makes 4 servings.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

11

Annual Election Notice For TEC Members n June 8, 2024, Thumb Electric will hold its Annual Meeting and director election.

Members served by the cooperative will have an opportunity to vote for board of director candidates in District 2—Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties. Currently those positions are held by Mike Briolat, Jonathan Findlay, and Craig Osentoski.

O

If you are interested in running for a director position, per the bylaw change passed at the 2023 Annual Meeting, you can request a nominating petition form. Eligible members in good standing can have them printed and made available at Thumb Electric Cooperative’s main office. Information on qualifications and other requirements will be provided at that time.

If you would like more information, please contact the co-op’s general manager, Brad Essenmacher, at 989-658-8571.

Your Clear Advantage for Internet Service

250 Mbps for *

$

77

.50

per month

$

*

1 Gig for

117

.50

per month

*Pricing based on discounts offered by TEC Fiber to TEC members. All TEC members who are also signed up for paperless billing on their electric accounts will receive a discount of $5 per month. An additional discount of $2.50 per month is offered to any customer who prepays their monthly fees 12 months in advance. Prices before discounts are $85 for 250 Mbps and $125 for 1 Gig.

12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

To preregister, register, or get more information, go to tecmi.coop/fiber or scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.

APPLY FOR A

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

JUNE 18 TO 23, 2024 AN ALL-EXPENSE-PAID TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C.

WHAT IS YOUTH TOUR? • •

•

An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., paid for by your Michigan Electric Cooperative.

A week of visiting historic monuments, touring world-class museums, and meeting elected officials.

Developing life-long friendships with delegates from across the country!

HOW TO APPLY • •

•

Applicants must be a sophomore or junior in high school.

You and your parents or guardian must be served by Thumb Electric Cooperative.

The deadline is Jan. 12, 2024.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.COOPERATIVEYOUTHTOUR.COM NRECA FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM: NRECAYOUTHTOURDC MICHIGAN INSTAGRAM: MI.COOP.YOUTH.TOUR

Santa C laus Here Comes

MICHIGAN’S INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED SANTA SCHOOL By Emily Haines Lloyd

I

n a cozy cottage nestled in Midland, Michigan, between 25,000-30,000 people come each Christmas season to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the— appropriately named—Santa House.

The structure, reminiscent of a life-size gingerbread house painted in merry colors with a steep, slanted roof (perfect for reindeer takeoffs), draws first-time visitors as well as multi-generational families who want to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.

However, just a couple of months before the doors open to Santa House

14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

and usher in the Christmas spirit, a different crowd of visitors gathers around for three days to attend something equally magical— Santa School.

The original Santa School started in 1937 outside of Albion, New York. It was owned by Charles W. Howard, a farmer who just happened to moonlight as Santa Claus in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from 1948-1965. He wanted to teach future Santas about bringing the holiday spirit to children and adults alike.

In the 1960s, the school was taken over by Nate Done, who eventually moved to Bay City, Michigan, where the program started with just two students that first year. One of those first students was Tom Valent.

Twenty years later, it would be Tom who passed on the traditions he learned that weekend to entirely new generations of Santas.

It was 1986 when Tom and his wife Holly (yes, that’s her given name!) took over Santa School, keeping the tradition alive and passing on those Kris Kringle-esque lessons. Shortly

“ It’s not like any other business I can think of.

We are literally fueled by Christmas spirit, and it’s been our privilege to share that with the Santas, as well as the community, for all these years.” afterward, they moved to Midland, where they have continued to host would-be Santas every year since.

“We both really believe in the spirit and magic of Christmas,” said Holly.

“But for Tom, it has been a calling. He has always understood that the time you spend with a child as Santa will stay with them their whole lives.”

It’s this very philosophy the Valents impart to their nearly 300 Santa students in the three-day curriculum.

Teachers, doctors, farmers, actors, coal miners, and truck drivers, amongst others, have come from all over, including 46 states and three countries. Their backgrounds may be different, but their mission is the same—to embody the heart of Santa.

“Our job is helping our students to be well-rounded Santas. We want them to feel confident, to feel like Santa,” said Holly. “Graduation can be pretty emotional for everyone. This experience is transformational.”

For students, the experience involves everything from studying the history

ta Lessons San The spirit & heart of Santa

of Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus to finding their own signature suits. They have help from professionals who teach makeup, wig, and beard (for those without real ones) application.

There is plenty of attention placed on singing and presentation skills, as well as a Santa Sign Language class to help make every child feel included.

Legends & Facts

“It’s a full weekend filled with different sessions, including making toys in Santa’s workshop,” said Holly. “But also keeping everyone up to date on the latest toys and gadgets on kids’ wish lists.”

Hair, Makeup, & Suits

Between the lessons, the workshops, the off-site trips, and plenty of cookies and milk, these Santas are not only finding their own holiday cheer, but storing up enough to bring the magic of the season to anyone who visits with them.

“It’s not like any other business I can think of,” said Holly. “We are literally fueled by Christmas spirit, and it’s been our privilege to share that with the Santas, as well as the community, for all these years.”

Charles W. Howard History Singing with Children The North Pole & Elves

Reindeer Dancing Toy Making Sleigh riding

santaclausschool.com CWHSantaClausSchool cwhsantaschool

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

15

Fuel Mix Report The fuel mix characteristics of Thumb Electric Cooperative as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 12/31/22.

Comparison Of Fuel Sources Used Fuel source

Your co-op’s fuel mix

Regional average fuel mix

Coal

0%

32.237%

Oil

0%

0.385%

Gas

85%

30.632%

Hydroelectric

0%

0.753%

Nuclear

0%

28.581%

Renewable Fuels

15%

7.413%

Biofuel

0%

0.731%

Biomass

15%

0.469%

Solar

0%

0.188%

Solid Waste Incineration

0%

0.013%

Wind

0%

5.562%

Wood

0%

0.450%

Your Co-op’s Fuel Mix

Thumb Electric Members Featured

In New Best Of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook

I

f you purchase a copy of the new “Best Of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook” released this month, you just might recognize some familiar cooks featured in the publication. We are proud to announce that five Thumb Electric members were selected to have their signature recipes included in the prestigious release, which highlights favorite meals from a decade of Country Lines entries. Congratulations to these top-notch cooks from within the TEC service territory for their inclusion in the book: • Fred Black, Pretzel Rods • Mary Ellen Babcock, Great Chicken Casserole

Regional Average Fuel Mix

• Dorren Zuznis, Lobster Mac & Cheese • Tracy Fisher, Raspberry Vinaigrette • Lisa Weiss, Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Emissions And Waste Comparison

To learn how to make these delicious dishes and many more, check out the details on how to purchase the Best Of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook on pages 6 and 7.

lbs/MWh

Type of emission/waste

Your co-op

Regional average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.25

1.25

Carbon Dioxide

897

1,248

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.23

0.91

High-Level Nuclear Waste

0

0.006

*Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ended 12/31/22.

The fuel mix data presented by Thumb Electric is the data from CMS Energy, which supplies nearly all of Thumb Electric’s purchased power.

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Raspberry Vinaigrette

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Energy Assistance Programs 2023-2024 Season Winter Protection Plan

Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program

Contact: Local Utility Company

Contact: Local Community Action Agency

Income Guidelines 2023–2024 # in Household

1 2 3 4

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

# in Household

$21,870 29,580 37,290 45,000

5 6 7 8

Add $7,710 for each additional household member.

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

$52,710 60,420 68,130 75,840

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 4

Max. Income

$16,038 21,692 27,346 33,000

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: 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 Contact: MI Veterans Trust Fund

Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury # Exemp.

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, weather-stripping, and insulation. Contact your local Community Action Agency for details. Visit mcaaa.org to find one in your area.

# Exemp.

5 6 7 8

Add $5,654 for each exemption over 8.

Max. Income

$38,654 44,308 49,962 55,616

You can apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2023 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.

State Emergency Relief Program (SER) Contact: Local Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS), michigan.gov/mdhhs 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 at the MI Bridges website: Michigan.gov/mibridges.

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.

Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF) Administering Agency: Michigan State Housing Development Authority Contact: Michigan State Housing Development Authority, www.michigan.gov/mshda or 844-756-4423 The MIHAF provides funds to customers with assistance preventing homeowner mortgage delinquencies, defaults, foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, and displacement. Applicants must demonstrate financial hardship directly related to COVID-19 on or after Jan. 21, 2020.

MI Energy Assistance Program Contact: Utility or 2-1-1 in late November: https://mihaf.michigan.gov/p/home or 844-756-4423.

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.

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

HEAT ING WI TH WELL-CONNECT IS LIKE PAYI N G

70¢ PER GALLON OF PROPANE

ENJOY

YEAR-ROUND COMFORT

HEAT FOR AS LOW AS

$600 ALL WINTER

REDUCE

COOL FOR AS LOW AS

$50

DEPENDENCY ON FUEL OIL, WOOD, OR PROPANE

ALL SUMMER

HOW DOES THE SYSTEM WORK? • • •

•

Attaches to your home’s existing heating system, it 50° WATER does not replace it.

Delivers 90% on average of your home’s heating 38° WATER needs and 100% of your home’s cooling needs.

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

Installs in one day, any time of year. No drilling or excavation is required.

70° AIR 95° AIR

Hybrid Geothermal

EXISTING FURNACE

Financing, 30% tax credit, and rebates up to $2,000 available.

Geothermal Made Affordable

833-436-9355 wellconnectgeo.com

SCAN HERE TO GET A FREE QUOTE

Thumb Electric Cooperative tecmi.coop facebook.com/thumbelectric

ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR HUNTERS

This hunting season, we encourage all members to be aware of electrical equipment and take necessary precautions while hunting. Keep these safety tips in mind as you enjoy the great outdoors.

1

Take notice of posted warning signs and keep clear of electrical equipment.

4

Be especially careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.

2

Do not shoot at or near power lines or insulators.

5

Do not place deer stands on utility poles or climb poles. Energized lines and equipment can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution.

3

Know where power lines and equipment are located on the land where you hunt.

6

Do not place decoys on power lines or other utility equipment. Any nonelectrical equipment attached to a pole can pose an obstruction and serious hazard to our line crews.