Nov/Dec 2024 MEC

November/December 2024

MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES Midwest Energy & Communications

ROGERS CITY ROCKS World’s Largest Open Pit Quarry

Internet Customer Contest

Energy Assistance Programs

Energy-Efficient Home Heating Tips

THERE’S A TREASURE

IN YOUR BACKYARD

You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy.

A WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system taps into the stored solar energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling, and hot water.

That’s money in the bank and a smart investment in your family’s comfort—and with a 30% federal tax credit1 available, now is a great time to contact your local WaterFurnace dealer to learn how to tap into your buried treasure.

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

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

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

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

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

Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616) 897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.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 Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989) 761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989) 582-0137 Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

Alger Delta Electric: up to $2,000 Cherryland Electric: up to $2,500 Cloverland: up to $6,275 Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000 Homeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750 Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750 Thumb Electric: up to $2,000 .

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

Contents countrylines.com

November/December 2024 Vol. 44, No. 10

/michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives 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.

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

Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS.

Association Officers: 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

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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: 10/1/24. 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. 2024. 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 ...................... 246,921 B) Paid and requested circulation ............ 246,070 ...................... 246,199 C) Total paid and requested circulation ... 246,070 ...................... 246,199 D) 1) Free distribution by mail.......................... 157 .............................. 109 2) Free distribution outside mail ................. 849 .............................. 722 E) Total free distribution ................................1,006 .............................. 831 F) Total distribution................................... 247,925 ...................... 247,030 G) Copies not distributed.......................................0 ...................................0 H) Total ....................................................... 247,925 ...................... 247,030 I) Percent paid and/or requested circ.......... 99.7% .......................... 99.9%

7 BEST OF MICHIGAN

COUNTRY LINES COOKBOOK This compilation of our co-op members' most delicious recipes makes a great gift.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Holiday Treats: These festive desserts will bring joy to your taste buds.

14 ROGERS CITY ROCKS:

WORLD’S LARGEST OPEN PIT QUARRY The Carmeuse Calcite Quarry is a global giant in a small town.

18 GUEST COLUMN

A Thrice-Worn Dress: how frugality and a GLE member's costume-making skills resulted in a perfect wedding gown.

MI Co-op Community

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

Recipe Contest

See details on page 10. Sauces & Marinades due Dec. 1; Best No-Bake Recipes due Jan. 1; Smoothies & Shakes 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!

Mystery Photo

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

16. Publication of statement of ownership: November 2024 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, editor

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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teammidwest.com

Your Power Supply Costs Have Dropped

/teammidwest

Terry Rubenthaler, President/CEO

VAN BUREN KALAMAZOO

CASS

LENAWEE

MONROE

ST JOSEPH

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND CASSOPOLIS SOLUTIONS CENTER 60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, MI 49031 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

PAW PAW SOLUTIONS CENTER 59825 S. LaGrave Street, Paw Paw, MI 49079 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

TECUMSEH SOLUTIONS CENTER 5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

CONTACT US Midwest Energy & Communications 800-492-5989 teammidwest.com Email: info@teammidwest.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Clarence “Topper” Barth, Chairperson, Three Rivers 269-279-9233 Clarence.Barth@teammidwest.com

Dan Bodette, Wauseon, Vice Chairperson 419-344-4015 Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443 Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816 John.Green@teammidwest.com Gerry Bundle, Cassopolis 269-414-0164 Gerry.Bundle@teammidwest.com

Erika Escue-Cadieux, Onsted 419-346-1088 Erika.Escue-Cadieux@teammidwest.com Fred Turk, Decatur 269-423-7762 Fred.Turk@teammidwest.com

Jim Wiseley, Bloomingdale 269-760-4619 Jim.Wiseley@teammidwest.com

Jeff Diehl, Union 574-274-6693 Jeffery.Diehl@teammidwest.com

ecently, I was driving to our Tecumseh office from my home in Niles, when I noticed gasoline prices ranging from $2.88/gallon to $3.39/gallon. I have always wondered how there can be such a disparity in a small area. As gasoline consumers, we always make it a game to try and find the best price in the area and brag to our friends when we find it cheaper.

At MEC, we work hard to avoid price volatility and brag about price stability.

It’s what sets us apart.

our electricity from either Wolverine Power Cooperative or Buckeye Power and pass those costs directly onto our electric customers. Every five to seven years, we do a cost-of-service study and forecast our power supply costs, and we then adjust those forecasted estimates to the actual power supply costs using the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA). The PCA is itemized on your monthly bill, and following this process gives MEC an important tool in keeping your rates stable.

Similar to gasoline, electricity prices fluctuate regularly. The price can change throughout the day, sometimes doubling or tripling from morning to afternoon.

Energy bought and sold during peak hours is more expensive than when the demand is lower. For example, electricity generally costs more at 6 p.m. than it does at 2 a.m.

I am pleased to announce that we are lowering the PCA starting in October.

Wolverine Power has natural gas generation in Gaylord, Michigan, that has been running more efficiently and longer than originally planned. Combined with unusually low natural gas prices, our power suppliers have provided the opportunity for MEC to drop the PCA charge from $.01014/kWh to $.004/ kWh. What does this mean for your pocketbook? A customer who used 1,200 kWh in September 2024 would have paid $12.27 for the PCA. In October, the cost was $4.88. This is about a 4% drop in the average overall bill. Based on our power supply budget for 2025, it looks like this charge will stay lower through the end of next year.

R

How do we keep our rates stable when the wholesale market changes this much? Along with our power suppliers, we look at long-term average pricing.

Doing this helps us avoid a crisis like the one in Texas in 2021, where customers suddenly found themselves with electric bills in the thousands of dollars. When an unexpected cold snap hit the deep south and many of the wind and natural gas generators were suddenly not available, the price for remaining available power skyrocketed due to increased demand and limited supply. Customers in Texas ended up footing the bill in a big way because they weren’t benefitting from long-term average pricing; they were paying the actual market rate.

MEC does not generate power or make margins on it. Instead, we purchase all

Price stability is not just something we dream about; it is something we are dedicated to achieving every day. As you drive by your neighborhood gas stations today stressing over the latest price changes, I hope you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that your team at MEC ensures that power supply costs continue their legacy of stability.

PRESIDENT/CEO: Terry Rubenthaler

DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Amy Pales COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: Grant Zamora

Midwest Energy & Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Please note: electric customers of MEC must adhere to our bylaws, which can be found at teammidwest.com/bylaws.

4 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

OUR MISSION

Delivering first-in-class innovations and solutions where others won’t.

OUR VISION

Creating vibrant, relevant, and sustainable rural communities.

30,000 CUSTOMERS STRONG Celebrate with Us!

We’re thrilled to hit a major milestone—30,000 fiber internet customers— and we want to celebrate with YOU! How do you enjoy your blazing-fast MEC fiber internet? Whether you're streaming, gaming, working from home, or connecting with loved ones, we want to see it!

HERE'S HOW TO ENTER: 1. Snap a photo or record a brief video showing how you use MEC fiber internet. Get creative! Need ideas? You could: • Capture a cozy movie night with the family.

• Show off your epic gaming setup.

• Share how your home office stays powered up.

2. Write a quick note telling us how MEC’s fast, reliable internet has made a difference in your life.

3. Submit your entry at teammidwest.com/30k-contest by Dec. 31, 2024, and you’ll be entered to win an awesome prize!

1st Place: Roomba Combo® 10 Max Robot 2nd Place: XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro Outdoor Projector 3rd Place: Amazon Fire Max 11 Tablet w/ Keyboard Case and Stylus Pen Rules: MEC employees, board members, their immediate families, and household members are not eligible to enter. Visit teammidwest.com/30k-contest-terms for the full terms and conditions.

Holiday Closures Our solutions centers will be closed on the dates listed below. Make a payment or report an electric outage via SmartHub or by calling 800-492-5989. Dropbox payments made at our solutions centers will be processed on the next open business day.

THANKSGIVING: Thursday, Nov. 28 & Friday, Nov. 29 CHRISTMAS: Tuesday, Dec. 24 & Wednesday, Dec. 25 NEW YEAR’S: Wednesday, Jan. 1

Don’t miss out—celebrate 30,000 customers with us and show us why YOU love MEC fiber!

Internet Bill Assistance Share Your Input for a Chance to Win $200 Help Shape the Future of Our Community!

Wolverine Power Cooperative, our power supplier, is developing a community benefits plan to create programs that support Midwest Energy & Communications members and the communities we serve. You’re invited to share your thoughts by visiting wolverinepowercooperative.com/CBP. Complete a brief survey by Nov. 17 to be entered into a drawing to win $200 or register to attend a community meeting.

MEC proudly participates in the Lifeline Program, a federal initiative that provides a monthly credit on telephone or internet bills for income-qualified customers.

Qualifying customers can receive a $9.25 credit on internet or $7.25 on phone service (seniors can get a $12.35 credit on phone service, while residents of Tribal lands can get a $34.25 credit on either service). Visit teammidwest.com/lifeline to see if you qualify.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Energy Assistance Programs 2024-2025 Season Winter Protection Plan

Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program

Contact: Local Utility Company

Contact: Local Community Action Agency

Income Guidelines 2024–2025 # 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.

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.

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.

Home Heating Credit Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury # Exemp.

0–1 2 3 4

Max. Income

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

# 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.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Michigan Veterans Trust Fund Emergency Grant Program Contact: MI Veterans Trust Fund 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: 2-1-1 or https://mi211.org/ 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.

GIVE THE GIFT OF MMM...

A decade of award-winning recipes from Michigan Country Lines.

COOKING FOR A CAUSE Support two deserving Michigan charities with every purchase of this cookbook: Feeding America Local Food Banks: Helping ensure that no one in our community goes without nutritious meals.

Cooperative Family Fund: Providing essential assistance to children of electric cooperative employees who have lost a parent while they were actively employed.

Make this holiday season special by ordering your copies today and sharing the gift of community and care.

Order now in time for the holidays!

Please allow 7–10 days for shipping.

Energy Efficiency Tips

Heating Your Home As winter settles in, follow these tips to help reduce your winter energy usage:

1

Prevent Air Leakage • The Department of Energy says sealing air leaks could cut your heating usage by up to 30%.

Common leaks include: - Utility cut-throughs and plumbing penetrations - Gaps around chimneys and recessed lights - Unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets - Window and door frames - Attic hatches - Outlets and light switches • ENERGY STAR® says nine out of 10 United States homes don’t have enough insulation. Consider adding more (for example, in your attic) to keep warm air inside your home. Visit energystar.gov and search “insulation” for details on how you can check your home’s insulation levels.

2

Maintain Your Heating System • Replace your filter every month.

• Have a professional inspect your furnace every year. They will ensure everything is working and point out problems before they become an emergency.

• If you use a pellet or wood stove, clean the flue regularly.

• When it's time to replace your system, select an energy-efficient model.

• Vacuum your vents and registers regularly, and ensure that vents aren't blocked by drapery and furniture.

3

Maintain Your Fireplace • Keep the damper closed when not in use.

Otherwise, warm air will escape up the chimney.

• When in use, lower the thermostat and open the nearest window slightly.

• Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.

• Check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible. Also, add caulking around the hearth.

8 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

4

Use Ceiling Fans • Set your fan to a low speed with the blades rotating in a clockwise direction. This will push the warm air collected at the ceiling around the room.

5

Lower Your Thermostat • Turn down your thermostat by 10 degrees for eight hours, and you could save up to 10% on your heating costs. Consider investing in a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts temperatures.

6

Let the Sunshine In • Open curtains or blinds on sunny days to let the sun help warm your rooms.

• Close blinds and curtains at night to prevent heat from escaping.

Visit energy.gov/energysaver for more tips on improving your home's efficiency all year long.

APPLY FOR A

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

2025 DATES ANNOUNCED SOON! AN EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO WASHINGTON, D.C.

WHAT IS YOUTH TOUR?

HOW TO APPLY

•

A trip to Washington, D.C., to learn about and interact with our nation’s history.

•

Applicants must be a sophomore or junior in high school.

•

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

•

You and your parents or guardian must be served by Midwest Energy & Communications.

•

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

•

Be the first to know when applications are open: Scan the QR code or visit www.cooperativeyouthtour.com!

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

MI CO-OP Recipes

HOLIDAY TREATS Delightful recipes to sweeten the season.

WINNING RECIPE! CHOCOLATE CHIP CHEESE BALL

Patricia Davio, Great Lakes Energy 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened ½ cup butter, softened ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract ¾ cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar ¾ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 (10-ounce) box Teddy Grahams or graham crackers/sticks ¾ cup chopped walnuts

Recipe Contest Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Sauces & Marinades due Dec. 1; Best No-Bake Recipes due Jan. 1; Smoothies & Shakes 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 2024

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add in the sugars and beat until well incorporated. Mix in the chocolate chips until combined. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. One hour before serving, remove from the refrigerator and shape into a ball. Roll in the chopped walnuts. Note: recipe is still delicious without the nuts if allergies are a concern. Serve with the Teddy Grahams or graham crackers/sticks on the side. Optional: you can also add a few drops of raspberry preserves to make it a chocolate/raspberry cheese ball, or you can use a combination of chips, such as white chocolate, peanut butter, butterscotch, etc.

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

CRANBERRY NUT COFFEE CAKE Janice Harvey, Great Lakes Energy

¼ cup brown sugar ½ cup chopped walnuts ½ teaspoon cinnamon 2 cups buttermilk biscuit mix 2 tablespoons sugar 1 egg ²⁄³ cup water ²⁄³ cup whole berry cranberry sauce

BAKLAVA

Karmen Nash, HomeWorks Tri-County Electric 1 cup sugar 1 cup honey ¾ cup water 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice ½ teaspoon lemon zest 2 cinnamon sticks ¹⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves ¹⁄8 teaspoon ground cardamom ½ teaspoon rose water, optional 1 pound mixed nuts (pistachios, walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.), finely chopped 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt (none if salted butter is used) ¼ cup brown sugar 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted 1 pound phyllo pastry sheets, thawed according to package instructions Combine the sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, and rose water (if using) in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until sugar has dissolved (15–20 minutes). Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until syrup is slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks and lemon zest and set syrup aside to cool. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar; stir well. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat a 9x13-inch or 10x15-inch baking dish with melted butter. Position rack in center of oven

and preheat oven to 350 F. Lay the phyllo sheets on a clean cutting board.

Measure; if the sheets are approximately the same size as the baking dish you are using, proceed from here. If they are larger than your baking dish, use a sharp knife to cut approximately the same size as your baking dish. Cover sheets with plastic wrap and a lightly damp kitchen towel, as phyllo dries out very quickly if left uncovered. Uncover and recover without getting phyllo dough damp while you work. Place 2 sheets of phyllo in the bottom of buttered baking dish; lightly brush the entire top with melted butter. Place 2 sheets and butter the top.

Place another 2 sheets and butter the top for a total of 6 phyllo layers. Spread at least ½ cup nut mixture evenly over buttered phyllo sheets. Repeat with 6 more sheets of phyllo, buttering every other layer, and topping with another ½ cup nut mixture until nut mixture is used up. Layer any remaining phyllo on top, buttering between each sheet, until all phyllo has been used. Use a sharp knife to make 4 cuts lengthwise through the layered phyllo at 1½-inch intervals.

Then cut diagonally across the strips at 1½-inch intervals to form 36 diamond shapes. Bake the baklava until golden brown, uncovered, about 40 minutes.

Remove from oven. Using a ladle or small measuring cup, slowly drizzle syrup over warm baklava. Allow to stand several hours before serving.

Icing: ½ cup confectioners’ (powdered) sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla 1 tablespoon warm water

Preheat oven to 400 F. Mix brown sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon, then set aside. Combine biscuit mix, sugar, egg, and water and beat vigorously for 30 seconds. Spread in greased 9x9-inch pan and sprinkle with nut mixture. Also spoon cranberry sauce over top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. To make icing, blend all icing ingredients, adding a few more drops of water, if necessary, for a drizzling consistency. While warm, drizzle cake with icing. Enjoy!

PISTACHIO ALMOND COOKIES Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy

1 cup butter, softened ¾ cup sugar 1 egg yolk, slightly beaten 2 teaspoons almond extract 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup ground almonds ½ cup finely chopped pistachios • pinch of salt Add the butter and sugar to a medium bowl and mix well. Beat in the egg yolk and almond extract. Sift together the flour and a pinch of salt into the mixture. Add the ground almonds. Stir until thoroughly combined. Halve the dough. Shape into balls and wrap in

plastic wrap. Chill in refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. Note: Refrigerating chills the butter and will prevent the cookies from spreading flat in the oven.

Preheat oven to 375 F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Roll out dough between 2 sheets of parchment paper to about ¹⁄ 8 -inch thick. Sprinkle the pistachios over the dough and roll lightly with a rolling pin. Cut into pieces or use cookie cutters to create shapes.

Place cookies on prepared cookie sheets, spaced 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes. Let cool on cookie sheets for 5–10 minutes. Enjoy!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MEC IN THE COMMUNITY 1. Scholarship Opportunity: Southwestern Michigan College: SMC-bound students can apply for our one-course scholarship to cover Intro to Computer Technology. Get full details at teammidwest.com/smcscholarship.

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2. Southeast Michigan Day of Action: At Manchester’s Carr Park, MECers revitalized the softball field with help from the city and the Manchester Men’s Club.

3. Galien Computer Classes: MEC Business Development Agent Stevie taught attendees the ins and outs of online safety.

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4. MEC x SMC Fiber Cup: Eight teams faced off at the second Fiber Cup video game tournament. This year’s champs were the Michigan State University Spartans.

5. Fremont Harvest Festival Parade: Bob, a propane service technician at our White Cloud location, drove an MEC propane truck in the Fremont Harvest Festival Parade.

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6. Marshall Skeleton Fest: MEC sponsored a skeleton at Marshall’s Skeleton Fest throughout October, and Business Development Agents Stevie and Jeremy staffed a booth at the kickoff party.

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7. Morenci Kiwanis Club Golf Ball Drop: MEC provided the bucket truck and performed the golf ball drop for attendees to win prizes at this fundraiser event.

8. Kids Tool Caddy Workshop: MECers helped kids build their own tool caddies at the PlaneWave Art and Science Open House.

7

12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

8

MEC Purchases 4-H Animals Each year, we purchase animals at our local county fair 4-H auctions.

We donate the resulting meat products to local food pantries to provide fresh protein options for families in the community who are experiencing food insecurity.

Why MEC Buys 4-H Animals 4-H gives local kids an opportunity to develop life skills they may not have a chance to learn through school, including: Budgeting: Anticipating costs and saving for the animal’s future needs.

Supply Management: Keeping an up-to-date inventory of supplies, including obtaining more when stock gets low.

Caretaking: Planning nutritious diets, looking for signs of illness, administering medicine, and developing compassion by considering and meeting the needs of another living being.

The material benefits of 4-H are important, too. Kids often use the money from selling their animal to: • Purchase their next 4-H animal, reinforcing what they’ve learned by participating again.

Lenawee County Fair: We bought two pigs and donated 319 pounds of pork products to The Daily Bread in Adrian and the Tecumseh Service Club.

Berrien County Fair: We bought two pigs. At the time of writing, they are awaiting processing. Pork products will be donated to Berrien County shelters and/or food pantries.

Cass County Fair: We bought three pigs and donated 591 pounds of pork products to the Edwardsburg Food Pantry, Helping Hands in Cassopolis, Action Ministries in Dowagiac, Church of God Food Pantry in Vandalia, and the Marcellus Food Pantry.

St. Joseph County Grange Fair: We bought seven pigs and donated 1,240 pounds of pork products to the White Pigeon Food Pantry, Constantine Community Food Pantry, Three Rivers Food Site, Mendon Food Pantry, the South County Food Pantry in Vicksburg, and a local domestic assault shelter.

Van Buren County Fair: We bought two pigs and donated 333 pounds of pork products to Eleanor’s Pantry in Paw Paw, Wings of God Transitional Home in Paw Paw, Cooperating Ministries Food Pantry in Hartford, and Decatur Human Services Food Pantry.

• Build their college fund, giving them a greater opportunity for higher education.

Additionally, 4-H can build a strong sense of community. A study by Tufts University found that 4-H participants were: • Nearly 4x more likely to make contributions to their communities.

• About 2x more likely to be civically active.

• Nearly 2x more likely to make healthy choices.

• About 2x more likely to participate in extracurricular science, engineering, and computer technology programs.

Our vision at MEC is to build vibrant, relevant, sustainable rural communities. To us, 4-H is a major investment in the future of our local youth and the families who live here.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

ROGERS CITY ROCKS WORLD’S LARGEST OPEN PIT QUARRY

By Emily Haines Lloyd | Photography by Tyler Leipprandt, Michigan Sky Media

A QUARRY OF EPIC PROPORTIONS

The list of natural and manmade wonders that can be seen from space isn’t a long one. The Grand Canyon or Great Barrier Reef may come to mind. Others might think of the Pyramids of Giza or Dubai’s Palm Islands. And while Rogers City, Michigan, home to about 3,000 residents along Lake Huron, may not strike the same familiar chord, its world record-holding Carmeuse Calcite Quarry has put it on the map. Or rather–the globe.

The largest open pit quarry in the world, Carmeuse Calcite Quarry (usually just referred to as “Calcite”) stretches four miles long and one and a half miles wide and spans an astonishing 8,000 acres. This massive operation, visible even from space, is a critical source of high-calcium limestone—a vital ingredient in products and processes we encounter daily.

The steel in our cars? Limestone.

The cement in our roads? Limestone.

The antacid you take after too many hot wings? Limestone.

FROM LOCAL LANDMARK TO GLOBAL ICON Founded in 1910 by the Michigan Limestone & Chemical Company, the quarry began operations in 1912.

Over a century later, now owned and operated by Belgium-based Carmeuse, it remains an essential part of the global limestone supply chain, producing about 10 million tons of material each year. Carmeuse is a member of Wolverine Power Marketing Cooperative.

“If we keep mining Calcite Quarry correctly,” said Carmeuse Site Operations Manager Scott Grulke, “this mine will keep producing for another 120 years.”

Calcite’s impact extends far beyond Rogers City. Its limestone has played a pivotal role in the construction of major infrastructure projects, such as the Mackinac Bridge and the interstate highway system. During World War I and II, the quarry’s output was crucial to produce steel, helping to build warships and other military hardware.

Despite its global significance, Calcite has never lost its connection to the local community. Generations of Rogers City residents have worked at the quarry, with many families counting multiple generations of miners among their ranks. The quarry is not just a place of work; it’s a part of the town’s identity.

“Historically, Calcite has been a big part of the community,” said Grulke. “We want to make sure that continues.”

A TOURIST ATTRACTION WITH DEEP COMMUNITY ROOTS In addition to its industrial importance, the Carmeuse Calcite Quarry has become a popular tourist attraction. The viewing area, originally established in 1949, was a response to growing public interest. The attraction quickly gained popularity, and by 1951, over 37,000 visitors had come to see the quarry.

Today, the quarry remains a draw for sightseers. The “Quarry View” site, located just south of Rogers City, offers a glimpse into the immense scale of the operation. Visitors can watch as 150-ton trucks haul limestone across the quarry, their size dwarfing anything else in view.

A LASTING LEGACY As it approaches its 112th year of operation, the Carmeuse Calcite Quarry remains a powerful example of how a small town can have global influence. With its limestone used in everything from road construction to sugar production to pharmaceuticals, Rogers City’s Calcite proves that even the smallest places can have massive impact.

Visit rogerscity.com/harbor-view to learn more and plan a visit.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

15

STREAM EVERY NFL GAME This season, some NFL games are streaming exclusively on services like Amazon Prime Video and Peacock.

Find your team’s schedule on MyBundle.TV. Watch every game completely buffer-free with your MEC fiber internet service. *Fiber internet service is not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

GET DETAILS:

teammidwest.com/cut-the-cord

COMMANDIQ KEEPS IT

clean

It’s free for MEC fiber internet customers on the Apple App Store and Google Play!

Disable or restrict specific websites and apps Block explicit content from your network Set time limits for individual devices

LEARN MORE:

teammidwest.com/commandiq Requires GigaSpire router and MEC fiber internet. Find your router at teammidwest.com/which-router.

If you don’t have a GigaSpire, call 800-492-5989 and we’ll mail you one free. Fiber internet service is not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

FUEL MIX REPORT

Christmas Lights and Your Electric Bill

o you prefer subtle Christmas decorations, or do you like to unleash your inner Clark Griswold?

D

Even a small handful of Christmas lights can affect your electric bill.

Here are some tips to maximize energy efficiency while still enjoying your favorite decorations.

Consider Switching to LEDs While many incandescent bulbs are being phased out of retail stores, you can still buy some types of incandescent specialty lights, such as Christmas lights.

However, LED lights come with several advantages: • Efficiency: According to the Department of Energy, LED lights use up to 90% less electricity than incandescent bulbs and can last about 25 times longer.

• Installation: You can connect more strings of LEDs without overloading your wall socket.

The fuel mix characteristics of Midwest Energy & Communications as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 6/30/24.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source Coal

16.735%

26.446%

Oil

0.248%

0.428%

Gas

22.303%

35.916%

Hydroelectric

0.469%

0.724%

Nuclear

41.962%

26.167%

Renewable Fuels

18.284%

10.319%

Biofuel

0.403%

0.760%

Biomass

0.162%

0.364%

Solar

1.143%

1.170%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.082%

0.006%

Wind

16.290%

7.616%

Wood

0.204%

0.403%

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

Use Light Timers or Smart Lights

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

If you have to manually unplug your lights each night, you could forget and accidentally use several hours of extra energy.

With a light timer, you can set times for your lights to turn on and off. That way you only have to remember to take them down at the end of the season.

You can also purchase smart lights, which can be controlled and scheduled from a smartphone app. Some smart lights even allow you to change their colors or set blinking patterns.

Swap String Lights for Spotlights

• Safety: While incandescent bulbs run hot, LEDs are cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire or burnt fingers.

Instead of traditional Christmas light strings, some LED spotlights can light up your decorations just as effectively and use even less energy.

• Durability: LEDs are made with epoxy lenses rather than glass, so they don’t break as easily.

To enhance the effect, try sparkly or reflective decorations to catch as much light as possible.

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

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

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

Your co-op

Regional average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.54

0.95

Carbon Dioxide

654.4

1,092.2

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.42

0.78

High-Level Nuclear Waste

0.0097

0.0060

* Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/23.

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

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Guest Column

A Thrice-Worn Dress Mystery Photo

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Where In Michigan Is This?

Identify the correct location of the photo above by Nov. 27 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

By Laura Payne, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member

A

refreshing trend has begun in the world of weddings. Brides are not always looking for the newest and most expensive things to surround themselves with on their big day.

My aunt wore a lovely lace and tulle gown for her big day, and her oldest daughter decided she would escape the cost and hassle of finding a new wedding dress and would instead wear her mother’s wedding gown, as it fit her very nicely. But frugality runs deep in the family, so when the youngest daughter began planning her wedding, the dress now had a chance to serve not two but three brides. However, the youngest daughter wanted the dress altered to make it her own.

If you sew enough Halloween costumes, family members will eventually view you as a seamstress—even if you’re not. Thus, I was tasked with altering a 30-year-old wedding gown. I was excited, but I won’t lie—that first cut into my aunt’s beloved wedding dress was nothing short of terrifying. What if I couldn’t figure out what to do? What if I made a mistake and destroyed my cousin’s chances of wearing the dress altogether? But I was boldly determined to help my cousin create the gown of her dreams.

September 2024 Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Pamela Bown, a HomeWorks Tri-County Electric member, who correctly identified the photo as the Water Maiden statue in Pentwater, Michigan.

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

18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

After staring at the dress on a dress form for weeks, I finally put a scissor blade on the cloth, and the creative process began. Finally, after several days of work, second-guessing myself more than once, and a few mistakes that had to be corrected, the dress was ready for my aunt’s youngest daughter to take her own trip down the aisle—a trip this dress now knew quite well.

The wedding dress now qualified as “something old...something new... something borrowed...”

Guest Column Win $200 for stories published!

Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published.

Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

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REFER-A-FRIEND CREDIT Current propane customers: Tell a friend about MEC propane! We’ll give you BOTH a $100 credit once their tank is set and their service is activated.

ENERGY STAR® PROPANE REBATES The Michigan Propane Commission offers rebates of up to: • $400 when installing a new ENERGY STAR® propane water heater • $750 when installing a new ENERGY STAR® propane furnace Appliances must be installed by Dec. 31, 2024. Apply for the rebate and get more info at MiPropaneRebates.com.

PUMP-DOWN CREDIT Switching to MEC propane? We’ll reimburse you up to $150 toward your current provider’s pump-down fee.

A pump-down invoice is required for reimbursement.

Have them mention TELL A FRIEND and your name when they sign up.

Credit check and 12-month contract required. Tank set fee of $1 plus applicable fees for trenching and securing township permits. Propane services are not available in our southeast Michigan or northern Ohio electric service territories. Propane services are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

GET DETAILS & CHECK ELIGIBILITY teammidwest.com/propane 800.492.5989