Issuu

Cloverland Electric Cooperative

November/December 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

D N A L R E D N O A WINTER W er’s n n o r B t a r a e Y a 36 1 Days

Data Centers: Protecting Members While Planning for Growth

Soo Locks Children’s Museum— A Place to Discover, Imagine, and Explore

Youth Tour & Annual Brighten UP Contest

THERE’S A TREASURE BENEATH YOUR FEET 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. Plus, with the groundbreaking variable speed 7 Series that operates at exactly the level needed in any heating or cooling situation, you’ll get the ultimate comfort, performance, and savings. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn how to tap into your buried treasure. YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeothermal.com

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com

Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com

Cadillac Wilder Htg & Clg (231) 645-4822 Wilderheatingandcooling.com

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

Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com

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

Gaylord Family Plmb & Htg (989) 732-8099 familyplumbingandheating.com

Manistique Hoholik Enterprise Inc. (906) 286.0572 bhoholik@gmail.com

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southern-michigan

Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 tmcmechanicalllc.com

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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

$500–$2,250 may be available through your co-op.

Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 westmigeothermal.com

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark

Contents countrylines.com

November/December 2026 Vol. 46, No. 10

/michigancountrylines

EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd, Chris Lewis 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: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, 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: 10/1/25. 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. 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: John Kran, 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. 2026. 13. Extent and nature of circulation: Actual # of copies of single issues Avg # of copies each issue during published nearest to ﬁling date preceding 12 mo. 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% 16. Publication of statement of ownership: November 2026 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, editor

MI CO-OP Community RECIPE CONTEST

See details on page 10. Favorite Side Dishes due Dec. 1; Air Fryer Favorites due Jan. 1; Sheet Pan Meals due Feb. 1. Win a $100 bill credit!

GUEST COLUMN

See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published!

MYSTERY PHOTO

See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!

6 ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Helping to keep the lights on for the 26-27 heating season.

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

Heirloom Recipes: Made with memories.

14 A WINTER WONDERLAND— 361 DAYS A YEAR Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland remains the world’s largest Christmas store.

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

Memories Made in a Little Neighborhood: A Cloverland member looks back at childhood's simple pleasures.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

CO-OP News FUEL MIX REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Email: board@cloverland.com DISTRICT A Gerald Nettleton 906-430-0910 | DeTour Village Term: 2024–2027 Jason St. Onge 231-420-0462 | Mackinac Island Term: 2025–2028 William LaLonde, chairperson 906-298-1406 | St. Ignace Term: 2026-2029 DISTRICT B Patrick Egan 906-437-5526 | Brimley Term: 2024–2027 Carmine Bonacci Jr., secretary/treasurer 906-440-4063 | Sault Ste. Marie Term: 2025–2028 John Sawruk, vice chairperson 906-630-1287 | Sault Ste. Marie Term: 2026–2029 DISTRICT C Ronald Provo 906-341-5300 | Manistique Term: 2024–2027 Kevin Vanatta 906-450-4310 | Newberry Term: 2025–2028 John Stapleton 906-286-0520 | Garden Term: 2026–2029 PRESIDENT & CEO: Mike Heise MEMBER SERVICE CENTER 2916 W. M-28, Dafter, MI 49724 906-635-6800 • 800-562-4953 cloverland.com communications@cloverland.com OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source

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

Coal

15.96%

23.81%

Nuclear

17.08%

23.28%

Gas

18.65%

37.08%

Diesel/Oil

0.87%

0.49%

Renewable Fuels

47.44%

15.33%

Hydroelectric

42.06%

0.70%

Wind

1.46%

7.96%

Solar

3.19%

5.50%

Biofuel

0.73%

0.48%

Biomass

0.24%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.10%

Wood

0.35%

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON lbs/MWh Your Regional Type of emission/waste co-op average Sulfur Dioxide

0.02

0.56

Carbon Dioxide

515

918.43

Nitrous Oxides

0.007

0.55

High-Level Nuclear Waste

N/A

0.0006

Methane

0.90%

N/A

CO2e

517

N/A

Nitrogen Oxides

0.41

N/A

Cloverland data is for the 12-month period ended on June 30, 2026. The regional average of all generation in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Regional data is the most recent available from MPSC.

Happy Holidays

Cloverland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Holiday Office Closings

BOARD MEETINGS

Nov. 26–27 in observance of Thanksgiving

Visit cloverland.com for the board meeting schedule, agendas, call-in details and past meeting minutes. Cloverland members are welcome to participate in person or by phone.

CHECK YOUR BILL

Check the rate code in the upper-right corner of your bill: RES for residential homes (permanent or seasonal) and GEN for nonresidential or commercial accounts.

The environmental characteristics of Cloverland’s electricity as required by Public Act 141 of 2000. 100% of Cloverland’s fuel sources are U.S.-based. Cloverland fuel mix data is for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2026. Regional data is the most recent available from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Cloverland offices will be closed on the following dates:

Dec. 24-25 in observance of Christmas Dec. 31 & Jan. 1 in observance of New Year’s Line crews are on call 24/7 to respond to outages. Report outages with our free SmartHub app or call 1-800-562-4953.

Data Centers:

Protecting Members While Planning for Growth By Mike Heise, President & CEO

You’re likely hearing about increasing discussions on data center development across Michigan. We have also received many questions from Cloverland members about what a data center could mean for our cooperative and the communities we serve. As a member-owned electric cooperative, our first responsibility is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while protecting the interests of our 34,000 residential and commercial members across the Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP). Cloverland’s current electric system is not designed to accommodate the significant power requirements of a hyperscale or mega data center. However, depending on the location, available capacity, and other system considerations, we may be able to serve smaller data centers, as well as industrial and commercial loads. As the electric utility serving the EUP, Cloverland also has an obligation to provide electric service to homes and businesses

that locate within our service area, subject to our applicable township requirements and conditions of service. That responsibility means we must be prepared to evaluate new requests for service, including data centers and other commercial or industrial developments. We are establishing specific protocols and fees for evaluating these inquiries. One principle guides this process: Our existing members should not bear the additional costs associated with bringing a significant new load onto our system. Prospective members would be responsible for the appropriate costs associated with studying, connecting, and serving their projects, including necessary engineering studies and infrastructure improvements. We would also require appropriate financial and contractual protections for our cooperative and members. That commitment extends beyond Cloverland. In 2026, Cloverland joined fellow electric cooperatives across Michigan in signing the Ratepayer Protection Pledge. The pledge reinforces a principle that is already central to our approach: New large electric loads should pay for the power and infrastructure required to serve

them so those costs are not shifted to existing members. At the same time, responsible commercial and industrial growth can provide benefits to our membership. Additional electric sales can help spread Cloverland’s fixed costs across a larger base, supporting our long-term goal of keeping rates as affordable as possible. It is also important to understand Cloverland’s role. As the electric utility, our responsibility is to evaluate requests for electric service and determine what would be technically and financially required to serve a prospective member. Decisions about whether and where developments, including data centers, are permitted belong to the appropriate township and other governmental authorities through their zoning, land-use, and permitting processes. As opportunities for economic development continue across the Eastern Upper Peninsula, we will evaluate each inquiry individually and responsibly. The interests of our members, the reliability of our electric system, and the long-term financial health of your cooperative will continue to guide every decision we make.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Energy Assistance Programs 2026-2027 Season Winter Protection Plan

State Emergency Relief Program (SER)

Contact: Local Utility Company

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

Income Guidelines 2026–2027 # in Household

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

# in Household

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

$23,940

$58,020

32,460

66,540

40,980

75,060

49,500

83,580

Add $8,520 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 it 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 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.

Home Heating Credit

Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury # Exemp.

Max. Income

# Exemp.

Max. Income

0–1

$17,556

$42,548

23,804

48,796

30,052

55,044

36,300

61,292

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.

Add $6,248 for each exemption over 8. You can apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2026 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.

MI Energy Assistance Program

Contact: Utility or 2-1-1 in late November: 2-1-1 or 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. 6

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Birds Doing Stuff 2027 Calendar, New Book by Steve Jessmore I’m excited to share two new projects that celebrate birds simply being birds—my sixth Birds Doing Stuff® calendar and my ﬁrst coffee table book, "The Splendor Next Door: An Invitation to Discover Birds and Nature Close to Home." From powerful raptors to playful ducks and endangered Great Lakes piping plovers, each photograph captures authentic moments in the lives of birds and the habitats they call home. "The Splendor Next Door" grew from more than 250 mornings spent on a boardwalk at Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids. By returning to the same place day after day, I discovered that

extraordinary wildlife and meaningful connections with nature can be found close to home. The result is a handsome hardcover book containing 129 bird-centric color photos. As a ﬁve-time Michigan Photographer of the Year and three-time National Audubon Photography Award winner, I use my camera to inspire appreciation for birds and the wild places that surround us. As a thank-you to co-op members, enjoy 15% off any order through Dec. 11 with code COOP15 at stevejessmore.com. Calendars, books, notecards, and ﬁneart prints make meaningful gifts for bird and nature lovers.

The Recipe for Holiday Cheer COOKING FOR A CAUSE Make this holiday season special by ordering copies of our Country Lines cookbook and sharing the gift of community and care. Each purchase supports two deserving Michigan charities: Feeding America Local Food Banks and Cooperative Family Fund.

Order now in time for the holidays! Just scan the QR code or go to amazon.com and search “Michigan Country Lines Cookbook.” Please allow 7–10 days for shipping.

Holiday

LIGHTING SAFETY

Access to Rules and Rates Notice We remind co-op members annually that the following information is available upon request: • • •

Use only holiday lights that have been safety tested and have the UL label.

•

Rate schedules Explanation of all available rate options Assistance in determining most appropriate rate when eligible for multiple rates Explanation of actual energy use for each billing period

This information is also available on Cloverland.com and through our SmartHub mobile app.

Before using, check each strand for broken sockets, frayed cords, or faulty plugs.

Annual Energy Waste Reduction Report Don’t string together more than three standard-sized incandescent sets of lights or you could overload the circuit.

Don’t throw lights over tree branches that are near power lines and service connections.

Always unplug lights before leaving your home or going to bed; a timer can help with this.

Learn more at

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Cloverland Electric Cooperative contracted with Slipstream to implement all residential and commercial/industrial programs. Slipstream subcontracted with Michigan Energy Options to assist with the implementation of the EWR programs. In 2025, Cloverland Electric collected $1,254,785.79 through the Energy Waste Reduction Surcharge and spent $1,374,374.44, resulting in an under-collection of $119,588.65. Cloverland Electric achieved these total savings in 2025: kwh savings: 2,741,459 mwh savings: 2,741 carbon (lbs): 1,892,723

New opportunity for EUP students!

How will you

MAKE YOUR MARK? June 16 - 22, 2027!*

An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. What Is Youth Tour?

How To Apply

•

Explore Washington, D.C., through historic monuments, world-class museums, and visits with elected officials.

•

Applicants must be between the ages of 15–17 years old on June 12, 2027.

•

Build leadership skills and discover how you can make your mark on the future.

•

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

•

Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by Cloverland Electric Cooperative.

•

To apply, scan the QR code below or visit cooperativeyouthtour.com!

•

Deadline to apply is Jan. 6, 2027.

*Dates subject to change; for the most accurate information, visit: cooperativeyouthtour.com

Learn more: cooperativeyouthtour.com mi.coop.youth.tour

MAKE MARK! YOUR

MI CO-OP Kitchen

HEIRLOOM RECIPES Made with memories.

WINNING RECIPE! STUFFED GREEN PEPPERS Kathleen Atwater, Cherryland Electric 5–6 small green bell peppers 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1¼ pounds ground beef 1 cup cooked instant white rice 1 egg 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 2 (10.75-ounce) cans Campbell’s condensed tomato soup • water, as directed on soup cans Preheat oven to 350°F. Wash the peppers and cut around the stems to remove the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes and rinse the insides. Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until tender and translucent. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion, cooked rice, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the peppers. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright and close together in a roasting pan or baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup with the amount of water directed on the cans and stir until smooth. Pour the tomato soup over the peppers. Cover and bake for 2 hours, or until the peppers are tender and the ﬁlling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The tomato soup will cook down and thicken into a gravy as the peppers bake. Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables, if desired, spooning the tomato gravy over the peppers and potatoes. Note: This is a treasured family recipe that I never tire of making. I always think of my dad, who did the cooking when we were growing up. I especially love the smell as it cooks in the oven; it reminds me of walking into the house from outside when I was a kid. Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Favorite Side Dishes due Dec. 1; Air Fryer Favorites due Jan. 1; Sheet Pan Meals 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 2026

BOURBON STEAK MARINADE Phil Ehardt, Great Lakes Energy 1 cup bourbon or whiskey ½ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup soy sauce 4–5 cloves garlic, minced 2–3 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and minced or grated 2–3 pounds steak In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, vegetable oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Place steak in a resealable plastic bag or covered container and pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for more ﬂavor. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Cook the steak as desired.

KAPUSTA (KIELBASA, SAUERKRAUT & POTATOES) Cynthia Hodges, Ontonagon REA ½ pound bacon, cut into small pieces 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 1 large onion, diced 1 pound kielbasa (smoked or fresh, or ½ pound each), cut into 2-inch pieces 1 (32-ounce) jar sauerkraut, drained, juice reserved • water, as needed In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and reserve the drippings in the skillet. Place the potatoes in the bottom of a slow cooker and top with the cooked bacon. Add the onion to the reserved bacon drippings and sauté until tender. Pour the onion and bacon drippings over the potatoes. Add the kielbasa and top with the sauerkraut. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. If the mixture becomes dry during cooking, add some of the reserved sauerkraut juice for additional tanginess or water for a milder ﬂavor. Serve warm. Note: This is our Polish family’s heirloom recipe. It’s served at every holiday meal, family party, or anytime we have a crowd to feed.

EASY SLOW COOKER CREAMY POTATO SOUP Ronda Judge, Homeworks Tri-County 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes 1 (32-ounce) carton chicken broth 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened and cubed 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 small package real bacon bits • salt and black pepper, to taste Add the frozen potatoes, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, salt, and black pepper to a large slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on high for 6–7 hours or on low for 8–10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the soup is creamy. Stir well before serving. Note: This soup is also delicious the next day, after the ﬂavors have had time to meld.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

A Place to

Discover, Imagine, and Explore By Allie Brawley

When the doors of the Soo Locks Children’s Museum open in late summer 2027, organizers hope children won’t know where to explore first. Ten major exhibits are planned for the new downtown Sault Ste. Marie museum, each designed to encourage children to learn through play. A signature Great Lakes water table will feature a miniature Soo Lock, while other spaces will include a giant freighter, lighthouse, maker space, Main Street, sensory room, baby play area, and Northern Lights experience. “We want children and families to walk through our doors and be in awe of the possibilities for play, discovery, and connection,” said Soo Locks Children’s Museum Board President Raquel Fernandez-Earns, PhD. Designed primarily for children ages 2–12, the museum will celebrate

12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

what makes the Eastern Upper Peninsula unique. Exhibits and murals will provide opportunities for programming centered on Great Lakes shipping, Indigenous cultures, biological sciences, commerce, and other aspects of the region. For Fernandez-Earns, a psychologist specializing in early childhood development, the mission has special meaning. She knows that exploration, play, and discovery are critical to childhood development and sees the museum as a place where children can build curiosity, confidence, and resilience.

Soo Locks Children’s Museum Board President Raquel Fernandez-Earns, PhD, stands inside one of the museum’s future exhibit spaces as construction continues in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. The museum is expected to open in late summer 2027, creating a year-round destination for children and families throughout the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

That opportunity is particularly important in a rural region. The museum estimates more than 8,000 children live throughout Chippewa, Mackinac, and Luce counties and four islands, with limited access to

“We want children and families to walk through our doors and be in awe of the possibilities for play, discovery, and connection.” — Raquel Fernandez-Earns, PhD, Soo Locks Children’s Museum Board President

Hands-on exhibits at the Soo Locks Children’s Museum will celebrate the Eastern Upper Peninsula while encouraging children to explore, create, and learn through play. Ten major exhibits are planned, including experiences inspired by the Great Lakes, Soo Locks, shipping, science, and the region’s unique culture.

INDIVIDUAL WORK STATIONS

3D PRINTER

GROUP ACTIVITY TABLES

MAKER SPACE

hands-on, informal STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math).

ANIMALS

Client: FISH I.D. & MURAL SOO LOCKS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Project: 3D CONCEPT SLCM DESIGN

MATCHING

Date: 11-14-21

TREES

The community has rallied around the vision. More than $700,000 in community support has helped move construction forward, along with a $338,000 interest-free bridge loan. Building construction is expected to be completed in December, followed by continued work on exhibits and preparations for the anticipated 2027 opening. Support has come in forms large and small—from foundations, businesses, and organizations to Girl Scouts, schools, volunteers, and even children who have requested museum donations instead of birthday gifts. An all-volunteer board has guided the project without a single hired staff member. Fernandez-Earns believes the result will extend far beyond the museum walls, providing a year-round resource for families, schools, and visitors while adding new activity to downtown Sault Ste. Marie. On opening day, after years of planning and fundraising, she is looking forward to a simple sight: children walking through the doors, looking around in wonder, and deciding where their adventure should begin.

For details or to support, visit slcmkids.org

MECHANICAL WATER TABLE BEYOND

RAMP UP TO EXISTING PAD

BENCH AROUND PAD EDGE INTERACTIVE ACTIVITY STATION

INTERACTIVE ACTIVITY STATION

LIGHT EFFECTS CHANGE SEASONS

LIGHT EFFECTS

WATER TABLE - NATURE

Client: SOO LOCKS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM DIVIDER WALL TO NATURE SIDE

BRIDGE MURAL

HYDRO ELECTRICAL

Project: SLCM DESIGN CONCEPT LOCKS EXHIBIT

Date: 11-14-21 SUSPENDED BIRDS

HAND DRYER

RAIN COATS

STAIR

MURAL AT LOCKS

DOUBLE SIDED BENCHES

BOAT BUILDING

RAMP UP

HOCKEY STICK BENCH

BENCHES KEEP EXISTING CURB SAFE

INFANT TODDLER

WATER TABLE - SCIENCE

Client: SOO LOCKS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Project: SLCM DESIGN CONCEPT

Date: 11-14-21

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

R E T N I AW D N A L R E D N WO

Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland Remains the World’s Largest Christmas Store By Chris Lewis

s is often the case with familyowned businesses, Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland had very humble beginnings. Wally and Irene Bronner created the store, and his father, Herman, a stonemason, and his crew hand-built it. As it began focusing on Christmas decorations (in addition to signs), the little store soon expanded, relocated, and grew into what is now known as the world's largest Christmas store.

Steady Growth, Constant Evolutions Before it was ever Michigan’s go-to destination for everything related to Christmas, Bronner’s began in a rather unusual way. In 1951—while painting signs and working on other projects for Frankenmuth and mid-Michigan 14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

businesses—Wally Bronner received an order for 24 lamppost Christmas decorations. This order ignited a passion within him, as he decided to focus on Christmas décor, along with signs, from then on. As Bronner’s passion for Christmas increased, so did his business, leading him to open a store on East Tuscola Street in 1954. The business continued to expand as he added a lineup of Christmas gifts and home decorations in 1960. Within ﬁve years, he was directly importing Christmas decorations from Europe, too. Consequently, by 1966, he had no choice but to convert the nearby former Frankenmuth Bank building into Bronner’s Tannenbaum Shop, his second store.

“While the stores continued to grow, a third location, Bronner’s Bavarian Corner, opened in the former Hubinger Grocery Store in 1971,” explained Maria Sutorik, vice president of Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, and Wally’s and Irene’s daughter. Despite Bronner’s three locations, the lines kept getting longer. To serve everyone eﬃciently and consistently, Bronner decided to consolidate his three businesses into one location. So, in 1977, he opened Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, a 45-acre complex that has welcomed millions of people ever since. Over the years, the business has steadily evolved. In 1984, its screenprinting division (once a primary focus) was sold, allowing Bronner to

dedicate himself solely to Christmas decorations. Eight years later, Bronner’s Silent Night Memorial Chapel was opened. It is a replica of St. Nicholas Church, the Austria-based chapel where "Silent Night" was ﬁrst sung in 1818. “Since then, it’s been open daily during store hours for visitation and meditation,” Sutorik said.

A Store for All Generations For nearly 50 years, Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland has been a store for all generations—not only for customers, but for employees as well. After all, Wally Bronner’s children assisted him with the business in some capacity for decades. Since his passing in 2008, they have owned and operated the business.

instead, looking at more than 50,000 trims and gifts, including roughly 8,000 ornament styles. Open 361 days a year (as it’s closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day), the store is anticipating nearly 50,000 customers during the threeday weekend after Thanksgiving. Thousands more will be shopping online, too. As Sutorik looks ahead, she believes Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland’s

friendly, exemplary service, warm environment, and wide array of items will steadily draw customers for many generations to come. “Bronner’s offers the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and touch of Christmas,” she said. “It brings the full Christmas experience to everyone—and will continue to do so for years to come.” To learn more or plan your visit to Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, go to bronners.com.

Additionally, Bronner’s grandson, also an owner, serves as catalog and product development manager. In every sense of the word, Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland is a family business, ﬁrst and foremost. Therefore, it’s not only overseen by a tight-knit family unit, but it also focuses on treating every customer like family. “Our emphasis on exemplary customer service and memorymaking experiences prevails today,” Sutorik said. To ensure the store provides “memory-making experiences” to guests of all ages it offers three main decoration themes: religious, toyland, and traditional. “Bronner’s appeals to people of all generations,” Sutorik added. “For example, mom used to come with grandma and Aunt Susie and the kids. So now, the kids are bringing their kids.” She continued, “My father always said, ‘It doesn’t cost anything to get in, and what it costs to get out is up to you.’” With this in mind, customers can simply explore the premises, including Silent Night Memorial Chapel, or they can just enjoy light meals and refreshments at Bronner’s Season’s Eatings snack area. Of course, many choose to explore the entire store

Chris Lewis is a freelance writer based in Northern Michigan. For more information, please visit chrislewiswrites.com or email him at lewis.christopherm@gmail.com.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

TREASURED TRADITIONS MOST VOTES

1. MOST VOTES Our favorite tradition is dressing up our dog for the family Christmas card. – Lauren G., Sault Ste. Marie 2. Fishing is one of our traditions! – Michael Herman, Garden 3. Chasing birds and sunsets with Bella and Beau is a treasured tradition! – Mary Picotte, Cedarville

4. Our family tradition is taking a picture of the Mackinac Bridge each time we visit the U.P.! – Melinda Weeks, Thompson 5. Northern tradition for our southern grandkids! – Shirley Mcdonough, Manistique 6. Our favorite tradition is spending time on the St. Mary’s River. – Tina Macy, Barbeau 7. Lupo working as a therapy dog at Twin Sault Cruisers Annual Car Show is our tradition! – Scott Cornell, Sault Ste. Marie

Submit a photo & win a $100 energy bill credit! Submit your “Weather Wonders” photos by Nov. 25 for the Jan./Feb. issue! Cloverland members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2027 will be entered in a drawing. One lucky member will win a $100 energy bill credit on their December 2027 bill!

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

To submit photos, go to cloverland.com/communitynews/photo-contest/. We look forward to seeing your best photos!

Heat Pumps Your All-In-One Home Comfort Solution

Upgrade to a heat pump system for yearround efficient heating and cooling of your home. Plus, earn rebates from Cloverland! Scan the QR code to check out a member’s experience adding a heat pump to his U.P. home.

Energy Optimization Rebates PRODUCT Central Air-Source Heat Pump

REBATE AMOUNT Tier 1: $250 Tier 2: $500

Mini/Multi-Split Air-Source Heat Pump

$1,000

Air-to-Water Heat Pump

$500

Ground-Source Heat Pump

$1,000

Desuperheater for Ground-Source Heat Pump

$100

Energy Optimization program rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will end once 2026 funding is fully allocated. Apply early to ensure rebate availability.

VISIT cloverland.com/eo CALL (877) 296-4319

Where In Michigan Is This?

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Memories Made in a Little Neighborhood By Linda Livermore, a Cloverland Electric Cooperative member

MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $100 energy bill credit! Identify the correct location of the photo above by Nov. 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.

SEPTEMBER 2026 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is George Sever, an Ontonagon REA member who correctly identiﬁed the photo as the statue in downtown Flushing, Michigan, at Cornwell Park. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.

18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Like all young girls, I was no exception. Living in St. Ignace, in what was known as the third ward, also called Vide-Puche, French for “empty pockets,” the neighborhood was ﬁlled with kids my age and was a fun place to grow up. Playing dress-up, building snow forts, going to the local theatre, holding hands for the ﬁrst time with a classmate you had a crush on—life was good in the 1950s. The big two-story brick schoolhouse was a place of safety, learning, friendship, and memories to carry into old age. I was afraid that, starting kindergarten, I would forever be known as a “kindergarten baby.” I was made to stay after school because, for the life of me, I could not make the number eight. I could not understand why a circle on top of a circle was not good enough. Moving through the grades, there were only six; each one held a special memory, from learning to do the Virginia reel with precision to decorating your very own valentine box and hoping it

would be full, to a field trip across the road to the woods to gather materials to make a wooden flute. Thanks, Mr. Hagen. But, for me, the very best times were in the winter when the sandlot/playground would be flooded to make a perfect skating rink so that during recess and after school and in the evenings and sometimes all day Saturdays, we could ice skate to our hearts, content. As a young girl, I would lace up the skates and glide (I thought) like an Olympic skater. If I closed my eyes and still was upright, I could picture myself with my skirt gently lifted as I skated to the music coming from the warming shack and see myself standing on the podium receiving the gold medal, hanging tightly to the bouquet of flowers given to the winner. That dream never became a reality, but lots of dreams don’t, and the memory has lasted into old age. Linda is retired from the 92nd District Court in St. Ignace. She has written a column for the St. Ignace News for the last 35+ years.

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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SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE No Home Visit Required for a Free Estimate

725 E. Portage Ave. Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS CONTEST

Brighten UP the long winter nights with holiday lights! Decorate your home, barn, or yard with exterior holiday lights, then email a photo to communications@cloverland.com for a chance to win a $200 bill credit. One winner will be chosen from Districts A, B, and C!

Deadline

DEC. 15

JUDGING: Cloverland employees will select winners based on creativity and overall “wow” factor. Your lights brighten your home and spread festive cheer across EUP! Winning displays will be featured in Michigan Country Lines and on Cloverland’s social media channels.

Congratulations to our 2025 winners: District A’s Patti Loehr, District B’s Tiffany Schmidt, and District C’s Ruth Kik!