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
Allendale
Allendale Htg & Clg (800)327-1937 allendaleheating.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
Filion/Bad Axe
Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989)582-0137
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Lansing Candor Mechanical (517)920-0890 candormechanical.com
Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616)897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517)764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield
Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517)886-1138 mwphonline.com
Traverse City D&W Mechanical (231)941-1251 dwmechanical.com
Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231)943-1000 geofurnace.com
CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
Al g e r Delta Electric: up to $2,000
C h erryland Electric: up to $2,500
Cloverland: up to $6,275
Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000
H omeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750
Thumb Electric: up to $2,000
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.
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: 10/1/24. 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: A)
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!
pieg.com
/PIEGCooperative
/PIEGCooperative
RBOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sandy Borowicz, Vice Chairperson 5341 Carlson Rd., Cheboygan, MI 49721 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2024
John Brown, Chairperson 21 W. Devereaux Lake Rd., Indian River, MI 49749 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026
Sally Knopf, Secretary
1849 W. 638 Hwy., Rogers City, MI 49779 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2024
Kurt Krajniak
7630 Wallace Rd., Alpena, MI 49707 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2025
Brentt Lucas, Treasurer 15841 Carr Rd., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2025
Chris Nagel
3842 N. Mielke Way, Lewiston, MI 49756 616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026
Daryl Peterson P.O. Box 54, Hillman, MI 49746 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2024
Raymond Wozniak
6737 State St., Posen, MI 49776 989-766-2498 • Term Expires 2025
President & CEO: Allan Berg aberg@pieg.com
Co-op Editor: Sommer Poquette spoquette@pieg.com
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 Main 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.
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Leading With Gratitude
Allan Berg, President & CEO
esearch tells us that showing gratitude is associated with greater happiness. I believe this is true. And there is so much to be grateful for when I reflect on being a member of this co-op, having served on the board for the last 15 years, and now as CEO and president. I want to take this opportunity to share a few things for which I’m grateful.
1. Our team members. Although change is never easy, they have adapted to changes in leadership and internal organization with grace. I am thankful for their dedication, hard work, and continued effort to be the best for you, the members. Our leadership team is growing and learning, and I appreciate all they do.
2. Technological advancements. We are in the final stages of deploying our Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI) to our electric service territory and are beginning to install AMI modules on our gas meters. I am thankful for advancements like these because they provide members with reliability, safety, and accuracy in billing.
3. Our tenacity and determination. We are determined to provide dependable, high-speed fiber internet to all our members. Thus far, we have connected over 5,000 members and almost completed phase 2 of our fiber buildout. Thanks to our team’s drive to connect rural Northeast Michigan, we are building as fast as possible and connecting members as quickly as possible.
4. Community commitment. You’ll read in this issue how our members voluntarily round up their utility bills to give back to the community. They provide scholarships for graduates, donate to food banks, assist with books for school libraries, and so much more. I’m very grateful to lead an organization prioritizing the communities and members they serve. Together, we can do so much.
5. Safety is a top priority, and I’m grateful our staff takes the training and follow-through of procedures and protocols so seriously. All of us at PIE&G appreciate it when members call 811 (Missdig.com) before digging. We’re thankful when a line is reported down, or a potential gas leak is called in. It takes a village to keep us all safe, so thank you.
Lastly, I’m thankful for you. I appreciate your constructive feedback, passion for our community, and patience as our co-op advances technologically and builds out our fiber network. I look forward to 2025 and the growth we will see as an organization.
PIE&G will be closed on the following dates:
THANKSGIVING: Nov. 28–29, 2024
CHRISTMAS: Dec. 24–25, 2024
NEW YEAR’S DAY: Jan. 1, 2025
Report outages or natural gas emergencies anytime by calling (800) 423-6634. Access your accounts anytime at pieg.com, on the SmartHub mobile app, or with pay by phone at (866) 999-4571.
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op
Your Board In Action
At their most recent meetings, the PIE&G Board of Directors…
• Approved Resolution 2024-29 acknowledging the retirement of Staking Engineer Don Reece after 28 years of service to the cooperative.
• Approved recommended Communities First Fund Article V –Qualifications of Board Membership Bylaw edit.
• Reviewed Board Policies 301 and 113.
• Selected Directors Borowicz and Nagel and Attorney Ryan to attend the Wolverine Wired program.
• Accepted Team Reports.
Notice to Members of the Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op Electric Tariff Changes
The Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op Board of Directors adopted the following changes to the cooperative’s electric tariffs at its Special Open Meeting held on October 22, 2024, in accordance with P.A. 167:
• Approved and set the 2025 Power Supply Cost Recovery (PSCR) factor to a maximum of $0.00478/kWh for bills rendered on or after February 1, 2025.
Notices 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 firstclass mail or by publication in Michigan Country Lines at least 30 days prior to their effective date. For specific details of any Presque Isle Electric & Gas co-op tariffs or fees, please call 1-800-423-6634 or visit our website at pieg.com.
Energy Assistance Programs 2024-2025 Season
Winter Protection Plan
Contact: Local Utility Company
Add $7,710 for each additional household 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
Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury
Add $5,654 for each exemption over 8.
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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
Find Holiday Savings for Your Home
is the season to save when shopping for energyefficient upgrades for your home. Be sure to add new ENERGY STAR® appliances to your wish list! You can take advantage of retail holiday sales AND rebates from PIE&G’s Energy Optimization (EO) program! After those upfront savings, you’ll save for years to come with lower energy costs.
Appliances
Portable Room Dehumidifier
Energy Star ® qualified. Limit 4.
Room Air Conditioner
Energy Star qualified. Limit 4.
Room Air Purifier
Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.
Clothes Washer
Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.
Clothes Dryer: Standard
Energy Star qualified. Electric dryer w/ moisture sensor. Limit 1.
Clothes Dryer: Heat Pump
Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.
Refrigerator
Energy Star qualified. Minimum 10 cu. ft. capacity. Limit 1.
Chest or Upright Freezer
Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.
Induction Range/Stove
Induction range, stove, or cooktop with a minimum of 3 burners.
Portable induction cooktops and gas ranges or stovetops do not qualify. Electric only. Limit 1.
$30
More Ways to Save This Season
In addition to new appliances, there are many simple ways you can save energy and money while celebrating the holidays at home.
• Switch to Holiday LED Lights. LED string lights are sturdier, last longer, and consume 70% less energy than conventional incandescent light strands.* You can save even more money by putting your lights on a timer.
• Use a Draft Stopper. A draft stopper can be used on doors or windows to prevent cold air from entering your home and prevent heat from leaving it.
$200
$50
$40
• Set Ceiling Fans to Run Clockwise. In the winter, set your ceiling fans to turn clockwise on the lowest speed. This creates an updraft and allows for the heat to be pushed down from the ceiling. In the warmer months, set your fans to turn counterclockwise to push cold air down through the room.
For a complete list of EO rebates and ways to save year-round, visit pieg.com/eo or call (877) 296-4319
*SOURCE: energy.gov
Use 70% less energy* by making the switch to LED s tr ing lights from conventional incandescent s trands .
cold air out of your home and war m air in. Place dra stoppers on windows and doors to keep S et ceiling fans to r un clockwise on the lowes t speed to push war m air down into rooms .
*SOURCE: energy gov
Enter to win up to a $50 energy bill credit!
Submit Your “Musical Moments” Photos By Nov. 25!
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 Musical Moments. Photos can be submitted through Nov. 25 to be featured in our February 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 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2025 bill.
6.
7.
2. Old hat rack and fall scavenger hunt! Julie Stacks 3. Created with Dollar Tree items. Amie Schoolcraft
Elvis the cat in a holly wreath. Marjorie Merchant 5. Patriotic “flip-flop” wreath. Torry Horrocks
Summer beach memories. Sharon Libich
Blending the seasons, Michigan style. Carrie Carlson
Sisters!!! Mel Douglas
HOLIDAY TREATS
Delightful recipes to sweeten the season.
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
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
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
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
CRANBERRY NUT COFFEE CAKE
¼ cup brown sugar
Janice Harvey, Great Lakes Energy
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
Icing:
½ cup confectioners’ (powdered) sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon warm water
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.
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!
Community Spirit in Action
The generosity of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op members enables the PIE&G Community First Fund (CFF) to fulfill its mission of supporting individuals and organizations in need throughout our service areas.
Managed by an independent, all-volunteer board, the CFF fund is fueled by members who choose to “round up” their energy bill to the next whole dollar—averaging just 50 cents per month for those who participate. This small contribution makes a BIG impact in Northeast Michigan.
A heartfelt THANK-YOU to all who contribute! We encourage everyone to consider joining this important cause to help our community. If you’re interested, please find the enrollment form on page 13.
Dec. 31, 2022, and 2023
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.
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 .
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
ROGERS CITY ROCKS
WORLD’S LARGEST OPEN PIT QUARRY
By Emily Haines Lloyd | Photography by Tyler Leipprandt, Michigan Sky Media
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.
A QUARRY OF EPIC PROPORTIONS
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.
Why Is a Service Charge Included on My Bill?
Presque Isle Electric & Gas has listed an availability charge (service charge) on your electric and gas bills for years. Often, people ask why they have to pay an availability charge when they received no service. Our answer to that is simple; this charge represents the cost to always have electric and gas distribution services available to you, even if you are not using electricity or gas.
The cooperative incurs numerous costs to maintain our distribution systems that are not related to the consumption of energy. Some of these costs include taxes, depreciation, and insurance on the equipment in the field, plus the maintenance of our lines and substations that supply your service. The cost to maintain poles, wires (overhead and underground), and/or transformers that are in place
to serve your residence do not go up when you use more electricity or gas, and those costs do not go down when you use less electricity or gas.
Monthly Bill Frequency
Please be advised that all electric bills are now at a monthly billing frequency. If you were previously at an annual billing frequency, you received your final annual bill this summer. All current and future electric bills will be generated and mailed monthly. Payment is also due monthly.
At the March 28, 2023, board meeting, the board of directors revised the Electric Tariffs to accommodate the transition of all accounts from an annual to monthly billing frequency. The language in the tariff reads, “All Member-Consumers taking
service under Schedule S may, at the Cooperative's discretion and upon a 45-day notice, be billed once per month for the monthly availability and energy charges if the Cooperative is able to obtain a meter reading through its AMI system. If readings are not obtainable through the AMI system, at the Cooperative’s discretion, the account may be billed annually.”
Over the last few years, we have been implementing our Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI) for our electric meters. The AMI system has enabled us to align all our accounts to a monthly billing frequency. The AMI system
Help Shape the Future of Our Community!
These costs remain relatively constant. It makes sense for us to collect the revenue needed to recover these costs in the same way.
also allows us to better serve our membership by providing daily meter readings, faster outage notifications, and enhanced billing data.
We encourage all members to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments. A monthly budget option will also be available. These services will make receiving and paying your bills more convenient. Please visit pieg.smarthub.coop to sign up for paperless billing and automatic payments today. Please call our Member Services department at 800-423-6634 if you have any questions.
Wolverine Power Cooperative, our power supplier, is developing a community benefits plan to create programs that support Presque Isle Electric & Gas 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. Share Your Input for a Chance to Win $200
Christmas Lights and Your Electric Bill
Do you prefer subtle Christmas decorations, or do you like to unleash your inner Clark Griswold?
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.
• Safety: While incandescent bulbs run hot, LEDs are cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire or burnt fingers.
• Durability: LEDs are made with epoxy lenses rather than glass, so they don’t break as easily.
• Installation: You can connect more strings of LEDs without overloading your wall socket.
Use Light Timers or Smart Lights
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
Instead of traditional Christmas light strings, some LED spotlights can light up your decorations just as effectively and use even less energy.
To enhance the effect, try sparkly or reflective decorations to catch as much light as possible.
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 6/30/24.
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
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.
A A Thrice-Worn Dress
By Laura Payne, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative member
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.
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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